IV Siesta Sand - May 2019

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MAY 2019 | 941.349.0194 | ISLAND VISITOR PUBLISHING, LLC | www.SiestaSand.net | COMPLIMENTARY

SIESTA PROMENADE Judge in Siesta Promenade case orders Sarasota County to ‘show cause’ as to why she should not overturn County Commission approval of project

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BIG PASS DREDGING Once again, Circuit Court judge has ruled in favor of the SKA endeavors to prevent the dredging Big Sarasota Pass

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AN IMMIGRANT’S STORY

Meet Guillermo Vidal

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VOLUNTEERING

Emeritus at Mote Marine Lab Anita Kincade

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SIESTA SOUNDS

Fire Station No. 13 replacement clears first county vote By Rachel Brown Hackney SarasotaNewsLeader.com

It took only a couple of minutes on April 10 for the Sarasota County Commission to cast a unanimous vote, setting in motion the construction of a new Fire Station No. 13 on Siesta Key. No person showed up to speak during the public hearing that was part of the board’s regular meeting in Sarasota. However, in making the motion to proceed with the project, Commissioner Alan Maio — who represents Siesta as part of his District 4 territory — pointed out, “This is a very big deal.”

The new Station No. 13 will be the second of three modern facilities “that we’ll be building,” Maio added.

During his first term on the board, he noted, the commission approved four new fire stations. Maio won that first term in November 2014.

“The last thing we can have,” Chair Charles Hines pointed out on April 10, is county Emergency Services personnel in facilities that cannot withstand storms. The goal is for those employees to be able to “go to work” as soon as hurricanes have passed out of the area, Hines said, adding that public safety “is a No. 1 priority” of the commission.

The overall expense is expected to be about $6.9 million for the new Station No. 13, according to a document provided to the commissioners in advance of the meeting. That document is part of the county’s Capital Improvement Program (CIP) materials.

County fire assessments and impact fees will cover part of the expense, Maio said.

The document says $1.3 million in fire and rescue impact fees will be used, used along with $500,000 in Emergency Services impact fees.

The rest of the project funds will be provided through a borrow in the

RUM CAKES RULE!

By Diana Colson

Tanja Hofmann of A Taste of Germany Cafe and Bakery has created an incredible recipe for Rum Cakes as well as other liquor cakes. Her creations are such a smashing success that the Hofmann’s will soon be closing their cafe on Siesta Key and moving to a new facility. At this new location, they will not only set up a storefront, they will also operate a factory employing several people who will do nothing but bake, pack and ship their 65 varieties of liquor cakes, including several recipes using our famed Siesta Key Rum! Now, THIS is big!

How did it come into being? Well, Tanja envisioned creating something unique. She started experimenting with recipes based on the various flavors of rum put out by Siesta Key Distillery,

labeled “Dangerously drinkable,” by Cooking Light Magazine. Tanja started experimenting with Toasted Coconut Rum, and her family and friends really loved the result. She refined her recipe and she took a sampling over to SK Rum to try. A dozen or so people were already bringing in rum-cakes, but Tanja’s proved to be the best of the best! Furthermore-having run a bakery-she knew how to produce volume on a regular basis.

Siesta Key Rum was soon marketing her cakes.

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Tanja Hofmann with one of her popular rum cakes, made with SelvaRey Cacao Rum with Chocolate (SelvaRey Rum is co-owned by the singer, Bruno Mars)

Commentary: Needs and Concerns for 2020 Season NEEDS: Public Restrooms: Now that the 2019 Season is in the books, a major need that should be addressed by Sarasota County prior to the 2020 Season is public restrooms in Siesta Key Village. The number one question posed to the Siesta Key Chamber of Commerce volunteers, according to Executive Director, Ann Frescura, is: “Are there public restrooms?”

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Tropical Avenue Band

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PARKING Mira Mar neighborhood on-street parking permit program will remain in effect indefinitely

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2020 fiscal year, an April 10 county staff memo points out. The borrow and fire assessments together are expected to cover $5,110,000 of the project’s overall cost.

Staff anticipates coming back to the commission this summer with a proposed lease agreement for a temporary fire station space in a commercial building, as well as the initial Guaranteed Maximum Price (GMP) for both the demolition of the existing facility and the new fire station, the memo says.

Additionally, staff expects to have a construction contract ready for the County Commission to consider this fall, the memo points out.

Fire Station No. 13, the memo explains, is “located below the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) floodplain …” It also is not hardened to withstand storms, it “does not offer gender privacy,” and it does not comply with the Americans with Disabilities Act, the memo Continued on page 36 says.

By Bob Stein

CONCERNS: The stop light proposed on Stickney Point Road and Avenues B and C The Siesta Promenade development proposed to be built on 24 acres on the northwest corner of Tamiami Trail and Stickney Point Road has been in the news since its conception years ago. (See the related story on page 3 of this edition).

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Happiness is… Accomplishing Goals Ask Jerry Williams, the owner of Abel’s Ice Cream, his two biggest keys to success and accomplishing his goals and he’ll tell you “identifying your goals is crucial. You can’t hit a goal you haven’t defined yet. And perseverance. If you know you won’t give up, you will eventually reach your goal.”

He’s watching six of his young, talented employees do just that. In days, they will each walk across the stage to celebrate their high school graduations. “Jill and I are blessed this year with a future firefighter, a civil engineer, a dentist, a businessman, a physical therapist and a biomedical engineer. We have the best kids in the world. I love to see their hard work paying off,” Jerry said.

Speaking of goals, Jerry has made it easy for you to accomplish one for yourself. Abel’s is

based on the premise that “everyone needs an ice cream goal.” So next time you come in, ask Jerry or one of his staff for one of their punch cards. When you hit your goal of 4 years ten ice cream items, you’ll bestraight! rewarded with a free single ice cream! How great is that?

If you haven’t tried Abel’s before, make a plan this month to stop by and get started on accomplishing your sweet ice cream goal!

Abel’s is celebrating the beginning of summer with these tempting seasonal flavors: Speaking of hitting your goals, their local supplier continues to win awards. This month they’re featuring two of their most recent award-winning flavors, Captains Chocolate (Smooth and triple rich, our house chocolate ice cream) and non-dairy Coffee Almond Fudge (Coffee non-dairy frozen dessert with a mountain

Jerry and Jill Williams, owners of Abel’s Ice Cream

of roasted almonds and a river of fudge).

Abel’s Ice Cream is located at 1886 Stickney Point Road, Sarasota in the South Bridge Plaza.

Open Sunday through Thursday from Noon9:30 pm, and Friday and Saturday from Noon10 pm. Learn more online at their website, www.abelsicecream.com or connect with them on Facebook and Instagram.

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Island Visitor Publishing, LLC

Judge in Siesta Promenade case orders Sarasota County to ‘show cause’ as to why she should not overturn County Commission Rachel Brown Hackney approval of project By SarasotaNewsLeader.com With an amended lawsuit having been filed in the 12th Judicial Circuit Court on April 12, Circuit Judge Andrea McHugh issued a Show Cause order to Sarasota County, giving it 30 days to explain why she should not overturn the County Commission’s December 2018 approval of the Siesta Promenade project.

McHugh filed the order on April 17.

“Having reviewed the Amended Petition, the court file, the record, and the applicable case law,” she wrote, “the Court finds that the Amended Petition demonstrates a preliminary basis for relief, for which a show cause order should be issued.”

In the meantime, a representative acting on behalf of Benderson Development — the company behind the Siesta Promenade project — appeared before the county’s Development Review Coordination (DRC) committee on April 18 to discuss plans for clearing the approximately 24-acre site where the mixed-use project is planned. Siesta Promenade has been approved to consist of 414 condominiums/apartments, a 130-room hotel, 133,000 square feet of retail space and 7,000 square feet of office space. The development is slated for the northwest corner of the intersection of U.S. 41 and Stickney Point Road, next to the Pine Shores Estates neighborhood.

The demolition materials say the anticipated start date for the clearing is 2019, with completion expected in 2020.

The total affected acres, it adds, are approximately 22.35.

Altogether, the documents say, 7.10 acres of impervious area would be removed, including 195 trees. The majority of those trees would be palms and pines, one sheet of the document notes.

Formally, the lawsuit that Pine Shores Estates resident Sura Kochman initially filed against the county on Jan. 11 is a Petition for Writ of Certiorari. It challenges the commission’s approval of Siesta Promenade on a number of issues.

Among those, Kochman points to the fact that the County Commission allowed staff to consolidate into one public hearing the four applications Benderson Development had submitted for Siesta Promenade. In a routine County Commission public hearing, a speaker is allowed 5 minutes to address facets of a proposal. However, as Kochman’s attorney, Ralf Brookes of Cape Coral, wrote in the petition, the time was reduced to 3 minutes for a speaker to cover all four Siesta Promenade applications.

The number of cards people submitted to talk about Siesta Promenade during the Dec. 12, 2018 public hearing in downtown Sarasota prompted then-County Commission Chair Nancy Detert to ask if the audience members were

agreeable to the time cut from 5 to 3 minutes. The majority responded that they were. Sixty-nine speakers ended up making remarks, with only 10 of them — by count of SNL — in favor of Siesta Promenade.

Another major point of the lawsuit is that “even though the approval of this development would significantly impact traffic patterns and safety, the traffic study undertaken for the project did not even include an analysis of the impacts on traffic levels and safety of a proposed new traffic light between US 41 and the Siesta Key Bridge.”

Benderson’s traffic consultant, Kimley-Horn and Associates of Sarasota, proposed that a signal be installed at the intersection of Stickney Point Road and Avenue B and C. The petition adds, “The County Commission did not have the legal authority to authorize this new traffic light as it requires a transaction involving the FDOT Florida Department of Transportation not yet completed.”

County staff has been working for about a year-and-a-half on a “road swap” of River Road to FDOT, in exchange for the county’s assuming responsibility for Stickney Point Road west of U.S. 41, as well as other roads on Siesta Key. The county’s goal has been to speed up improvements that have been sought on River Road for decades.

As a state road, River Road will have a higher priority for widening and other changes, county staff has noted.

Kochman’s petition added, “Without the new traffic light, Siesta Promenade as proposed would never have been approved because of its severe impact on neighborhoods to the north and west that would face huge increases in projectspecific traffic attempting to return in the directions from whence they came.”

Because of the speakers’ time limitation during the public hearing, the petition points out, Kochman’s remarks were “cut short during her presentation and these impacts were never fully considered and warrant reversal or remand for additional time to present this expert opinion testimony and evidence.”

A transcript and two intervenors

The original motion attorney Brookes filed on Kochman’s behalf did not provide citations to the transcript of the

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December 2018 County Commission hearing. The transcript finally was filed on Feb. 25. It totals 322 pages.

On April 3, Judge McHugh granted Kochman’s Motion for Leave to Amend Petition, so the new document could provide an appendix and transcript “conforming to the Rules of Appellate Procedure …”

Additionally, Judge McHugh issued an order on Feb. 27 to allow Benderson Development and Siesta 41 Associates LLP — a Benderson affiliate — to intervene in the case. McHugh wrote that she had been advised that neither Kochman nor Sarasota County objected to the request from Sarasota attorney Robert K. Lincoln, who is representing Benderson and Siesta 41 Associates in the lawsuit.

Earlier, McHugh had chastised Lincoln for filing motions opposing various actions in the case without his clients having been approved as intervenors.

Lincoln finally filed his Motion to Intervene on Feb. 22.

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Moving on up

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By Rachel Brown Hackney SarasotaNewsLeader.com

Last October, newly promoted Lt. Jason Mruczek told reporters that he would be leaving Siesta Key, where he had served as the Sheriff’s Office substation leader for a number of years. Sgt. Paul Cernansky, who previously served with the department’s Tactical Unit, would be taking his place, Mruczek added.

As it turns out, Cernansky also has received a promotion to lieutenant. That meant that he, too, would be moving to another assignment. In Mruczek’s case, it was a position with Animal Services. In Cernansky’s case, it is the Law Enforcement Division, the Sheriff’s Office announced on April 18, after Cernansky’s promotion became official.

Cernansky first addressed SKA members during their regular meeting in November 2018. Then, Deputy Chris McGregor, a long-time officer on the island, had the honor of making the introduction. McGregor and Cernansky laughed about the fact that Cernansky had ended up having to use one of McGregor’s uniform shirts that day, which, obviously, misidentified Cernansky, just as he was trying to get acquainted with the nonprofit’s board and members.

On April 4, a deputy who was one of Cernansky’s colleagues with the Tactical Unit during Cernansky’s five-year stint with that division — Zack Lewis — accompanied Cernansky to the Siesta Key Association meeting.

Cernansky joked that Lewis has complained that Cernansky never has anything good to say about him.

Lewis began working on the Key a couple of months ago, Cernansky continued. “Zack is one of the

most talented, if not the most talented cop I’ve ever worked with,” Cernansky said. “You guys are all very fortunate to have him out here.”

The Sheriff’s Office website says, “[The] Tactical Unit functions as part of patrol and is tasked with the identification, disruption and displacement of prolific offenders throughout the county. The Unit works closely with the Special Investigations and Criminal Investigations Sections, the Intelligence Unit, Fugitive Apprehension Unit and other local, state and federal agencies. The Tactical Unit also augments patrol by focusing on especially problematic areas, conducting surveillance and apprehending offenders where necessary to reduce the incidence of crime.”

As of the Siesta Sand publication date for this issue, no word was available on who the new Siesta substation leader will be.

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Cosentino cases reassigned to Judge McHugh

By Rachel Brown Hackney SarasotaNewsLeader.com

Last year, after the Nov. 6 General Election, 12th Judicial Circuit Court Judge Frederick P. Mercurio was reassigned to Manatee County, the court’s website indicates.

He had been presiding over two cases related to the May 2016 County Commission vacation of a 373-foot-long segment of North Beach Road. One is a lawsuit Siesta resident Mike Cosentino filed against the county in June 2016, contending the action violated county regulations. The second, filed in October 2018 by members of the Caflisch family — owners of property on North Beach Road — sought to have two proposed Sarasota County Charter amendments Cosentino had written thrown off the Nov. 6, 2018 ballot. Both amendments were related to the road vacation.

Mercurio declined to have the proposed amendments removed from the ballot, and they passed with overwhelming majorities.

After the election, both Cosentino cases were reassigned to newly elected Circuit Judge Maria Ruhl.

On April 1, Ruhl filed an Order of Disqualification in the Caflisch case, writing that it was “pursuant to the provisions of Florida Rules of Judicial Administration 2.330(i).”

That part of the rules says, “Judge’s Initiative — Nothing in this rule limits the judge’s authority to enter an order of disqualification on the judge’s own initiative.”

Following Ruhl’s action, Chief Judge Charles Williams reassigned the Caflisch case to Circuit Judge Andrea McHugh.

In Cosentino’s lawsuit against the county, Ruhl also filed an Order of Disqualification, citing the same Florida Rule of Judicial Administration. She took that action on March 18.

Continued on page 17

MAY 2019

A fond farewell to a friend Cheryl Gaddie was a force of nature. She passed away on April 15 with family and friends by her side, she was 61 years old.

Gaddie owned and operated CG Designs here on Siesta Key from 2005 to May 2018. One of her designs the public can view is the Siesta Key Chamber of Commerce and Visitors Center in the Village completed in 2014, the result is both stunning and efficient for this small space.

“Interior Design is really interior architecture,” said Gaddie. “I’m a minimalist. I believe that a welldesigned space does not require additional footage. There’s one design that works best for each space, and you have to find that design.”

In the professional world, Gaddie was known as a unique and talented Interior Designer.

She may have opened her first home furnishing business in Grand Forks, North Dakota in 1988, but she was enticed by the warm tropical weather in Florida and after dappling on Siesta Key in 2005, she officially moved here in 2007 and closed her business in Grand Forks. She loved challenges and successfully designed or remodeled condominiums, private homes, commercial spaces, doctor and dentist offices, restaurants and bars. In addition, she designed several new construction homes for family and friends.

Gaddie immersed herself completely in the business community wherever she went.

Shortly after moving to Siesta Key, she joined both the Chamber of Commerce and the Siesta Key Village Association. She not

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By Bob Stein

Back row: Roz Heiman, Eleni Kouvatsos and Mia Leone Front row: Alana Tomasso, Cheryl Gaddie and Kay Kouvatsos

Cheryl made a significant impact on her students and the college in Denver and had the Interior Design resource library dedicated in her name. The school emphasizes that she will continue to live on in all those who had the pleasure of knowing her.

only served on both boards, she chaired both organizations during her tenure. Her name is also recognized by members of the Siesta Key Association, Center for Architecture Sarasota, Team Tony and several other Cycling Clubs in Sarasota.

Gaddie realized the importance of continuing her education throughout her career.

She pursued college classes while working in Sarasota and completed her MFA from The Academy of Art University in San Francisco in 2015.

After graduation, she felt the need to give back and teach.

She started by teaching online Interior Design courses which led her to find her new home teaching classes on campus at the Rocky Mountain College of Art and Design in Denver, Colorado in May 2018. Cheryl made a significant impact on her students and the college in Denver and had the Interior Design resource library dedicated in her name.

The school emphasizes that she will continue to live on in all those who had the pleasure of knowing her.

To her personal world, Gaddie was known for her zest for life, beautiful smile, positive attitude, and thrill of travel and biking. She found great comfort in the company of the many friends which she called “family.”

Cheryl, you will be sorely missed. I’m glad I had the opportunity to be a friend and serve with you on the Siesta Key Chamber and the Siesta Key Village Association boards.

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Audubon steward battles vandalism and Rachel Brown Hackney dogs on Siesta Beach By SarasotaNewsLeader.com First, it was the vandalism the last full week of March. Now, it is the dogs.

On March 27, Kylie Wilson, program coordinator for Florida Audubon’s Bird Monitoring & Stewardship Program on Sarasota County beaches, contacted The Sarasota News Leader. She needed assistance, she wrote in an email, because of “recent acts of vandalism to our bird nesting enclosures. There have been several occurrences this week, undoubtedly related to all the beach traffic for spring break.”

On the morning of March 24, Wilson said during a telephone interview, one of her Siesta volunteers let her know that people had tramped through areas roped off for the beach-nesting birds.

Trespassers also had pushed down signs explaining that the snowy plover, a protected species, nests directly on the beach.

The first incident probably occurred the night of March 23, Wilson reported.

Six of the previous seven or eight days, she continued on April 2, “At least some vandalism occurred” in the areas marked in an effort to protect the snowy plovers.

Sometimes, she said, the string enclosing an area had been pulled down. On other occasions, she and volunteers found the informational signs and the stakes to which the string had been attached lying in the sand.

Some stakes had been broken.

Wilson acknowledged the frustration of “having to be out there every morning” to put the stakes back up.

After conferring with representatives of the Sarasota County Sheriff’s Office, Wilson added, she learned that deputies had been working to keep an eye on high school students from out-of-state who were staying on Siesta Key for spring break. She said she understood that students apparently had been gathering routinely on the beach at night to get away from their parents. “I would see a lot of empty bottles and cans” in the nesting areas, Wilson pointed out.

In a separate telephone interview, on April 3, Sgt. Paul Cernansky, leader of the Sheriff’s Office Siesta Key substation, said, “A lot of the patrol deputies have been out on the beach at night,” as a result of the gatherings of young people.

Cernansky also pointed out that the Sheriff’s Office has no authority to take legal action regarding damage to nesting areas. That is the purview of the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC).

Wilson noted that, as well, telling SNL that she immediately sought FWC assistance with enhanced protection of the nesting areas after the vandalism was discovered.

Anyone who sees a disturbance of the roped-off areas on Siesta Key is asked to call the FWC hotline (1-888-404-3922),

Wilson stressed, or the Sheriff’s Office non-emergency number (941-3161201).

She also noted that the plovers in recent years have been more inclined to nest in the dunes and vegetated areas, further landward of the water.

She asked that the public “really be conscientious about those areas” on the Siesta Key shoreline.

The primary staked-off nesting area is on property owned by the Conservation Foundation of the Gulf Coast, Wilson reported in an earlier email. That land is just southwest of 636 Beach Road, between Beach Accesses 10 and 11. “Other buffers go up and come down as needed.”

Wilson emphasized in her emails that the snowy plovers are “small birds with nests directly on sand, very well camouflaged and easily disturbed.”

The Audubon Guide to North American Birds explains that the snowy plover is declining in some areas, “especially along the Gulf Coast … It is considered threatened in parts of its range. Human disturbance on beaches often causes failure of nesting attempts.”

Through the years, Sarasota County Parks, Recreation and Natural Resources staff members have explained to groups on Siesta that the birds will abandon a nest if they feel endangered, regardless of how close chicks may be to hatching.

During one of her weekly email updates for her volunteers, Wilson wrote, “Most of the people on our beaches in March are from out of state and have no clue what a Snowy Plover is. Education is key — especially for such a small, camouflaged bird like the Snowy Plover.”

The dog issue During the April telephone interview, Wilson pointed to another serious problem on the beach: dogs.

As reported in March, Section 33 of Chapter 90 of the Sarasota County Code of Ordinances prohibits dogs “on or within Public Recreation Areas, Public Natural Areas, Public Beach Parks, and the Beaches or any foreshore area located immediately waterward thereof where waves crest and break, including … Siesta Key Beaches from Palmer Point Park to the municipal limits of the City of Sarasota” unless the dog is a service animal.

Dogs, like people, can scare nesting snowy plovers.

Yet, Wilson noted, “I see fresh dog tracks or I see a dog every day on the beach.” Just that morning, she added, “I saw a big pile of dog poop” near Beach Access 7.

Continued on page 36

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Save Our Siesta Sand 2 prepared for review of thousands of Army Corps of Engineers documents as next step in federal lawsuit to try to stop dredging of Big Pass

By Rachel Brown Hackney SarasotaNewsLeader.com

A Siesta Key nonprofit has been awaiting what its leaders believe will be thousands of documents from the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, which they and their subject matter experts will have to review as they seek to stop the dredging of Big Sarasota Pass.

And they anticipate having just one week to conclude that undertaking, Save Our Siesta Sand 2 Chair Peter van Roekens reported in an April 18 newsletter. The nonprofit was going to have to file a May 16 answer to the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers (USACE) after its team pored over the materials.

The review is just one step outlined in a schedule in conjunction with a new designation for the lawsuit Save Our Siesta Sand 2 (SOSS2) filed against the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers (USACE) in January. In late March, the federal judge presiding over the case redesignated it for “Track One” proceedings.

After the case was transferred in February from the Jacksonville Division to the Tampa Division of the U.S. District Court for the Middle District of Florida, the USACE filed a motion that SOSS2 did not oppose, seeking the switch to Track One. Among the categories of proceedings in Track One cases, according to the U.S. District Court for the Middle District of Florida, are those involving the review of an administrative record; a challenge of a criminal conviction or sentence; and action to enforce an arbitration award.

Initially, the USACE’s March 18 motion pointed out, the case was designated a Track Two, which typically includes a trial.

In the order he issued in the case on March 20, U.S. District Court Chief Judge Steven D. Merryday pointed out that SOSS2 is requesting “judicial review of the administrative record.”

The SOSS2 complaint contends that the USACE failed to adhere to the standards set forth in a variety of federal laws when the USACE issued a finding of No Significant Impact for its proposal to remove up to 1.3 million cubic yards of sand from Big Pass to renourish about 1.56 miles of South Lido Key Beach. The USACE issued its Final Environmental Assessment and Finding of No Significant Impact (FONSI) on July 30.

The City of Sarasota was the co-applicant with the USACE in March 2015 in seeking a Florida Department of Environmental Protection (FDEP) permit for the Lido project.

Continued on page 38

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Circuit Court judge denies City of Sarasota motion to dismiss Rachel Brown Hackney Siesta Key Association petition in Big Pass case By SarasotaNewsLeader.com Once again, a 12th Judicial Circuit Court judge has ruled in favor of the Siesta Key Association as the nonprofit endeavors to prevent the dredging of sand from Big Sarasota Pass.

In an April 18 order, Circuit Judge Andrea McHugh denied a March 14 motion by the City of Sarasota to dismiss a petition filed by the Siesta Key Association (SKA) for a Writ of Mandamus. The SKA filed its original complaint in the case in March 2017.

The SKA petition asked the court to compel the city to comply with the city’s own comprehensive plan policy in determining whether up to 1.3 million cubic yards of sand should be removed from Big Pass to renourish 1.56 miles of South Lido Key Beach.

The SKA contends that any dredging of the pass — which never has been dredged — will lead to irreparable harm to Siesta Key property. The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers (USACE), which was the co-applicant with the City of Sarasota for the Lido project, has maintained since September 2013 that its modeling has shown Siesta Key will not sustain damage from the initiative.

McHugh also says in her new order that she would hold an evidentiary hearing on the SKA’s petition for the writ “at a time and date to be set by the Court after a status conference where all parties can be heard.”

That hearing has been set for 9 a.m. on July 19, court records show.

“We are greatly relieved and believe this may finally lead to the writ after the status hearing,” SKA President Catherine Luckner stated. “I am very, very hopeful.”

The SKA filed an amended complaint last year, asking McHugh to order the city to ensure the Lido project’s compliance with Action Strategy 1.1 in the Sarasota City Plan. The SKA maintained that it had asked the city to make that determination of compliance, and the city had refused.

A Writ of Mandamus from a court orders a governmental entity “to properly fulfill its official duties or correct an abuse of discretion,” the Cornell Law School explains.

McHugh issued an earlier order to the city, on Feb. 11, calling for it to “show cause” why she should not compel it “to make an official determination that the Project is consistent with the City Comprehensive Plan and all other applicable local, regional, state, and federal plans and regulations.” She was referencing language in Action Strategy 1.1 of the city’s Environmental Protection and

Coastal Islands Plan.

In his March 14 response for the city, attorney John R. Herin Jr. of the Fox Rothschild firm in Miami wrote that documentation the city filed as part of the permit application it submitted to the Florida Department of Environmental Protection (FDEP) in March 2015 stated that the city had made the determination that the Lido Renourishment Project does comply with Action Strategy 1.1.

However, in its response to the city’s answer, the SKA argued that that letter, signed by City Engineer Alexandrea DavisShaw, was insufficient. The SKA’s attorney, Kent Safriet of the Tallahassee firm Hopping Green & Sams, pointed out, for example, that numerous changes had taken place in the USACE plans for the Lido project in response to FDEP questions over an almost two-year period of the department’s review of the elements of the proposal.

He also argued that only DavisShaw — “not the City Commission or even a Planning and Zoning Official” — signed that letter in March 2015. Further, Safriet argued, the letter was not officially “rendered,” as defined by the applicable state rule of procedure, “since it was never filed with the City Clerk, nor was it publicly noticed,” as required by the Florida Statutes.

In her April 18 order, McHugh pointed out that the SKA “asserts that it was only by accident that it came across the Engineer’s letter in a requested copy of the City’s Project permit application, and that not all aggrieved or adversely affected parties received a copy of the FDEP permit application,” as required by relevant case law.

She further noted the SKA’s argument that DavisShaw’s letter “makes no specific finding as to Action Strategy 1.1 of the City Plan, nor does it reference applicable local, regional, state, or federal plans or regulations, as required by Action Strategy 1.1” Additionally, in a second amended complaint the SKA filed in January, it said that members of the nonprofit met with senior staff of the City of Sarasota — including DavisShaw and City Manager Tom Barwin — on May 23, 2017, asking them to comply with the city’s comprehensive plan.

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In his March 14 response, city attorney Herin cast doubt on whether that meeting ever took place, citing a lack of evidence to that effect.

In its April 8 answer to Herin’s response, the SKA included as an exhibit an exchange of email between a SKA member and former City and County Commissioner Nora Patterson, who facilitated the May 2017 meeting. The exchange affirmed that the discussion occurred, as the SKA had said.

In her April 18 order, McHugh referenced that email as part of the reasoning behind her decision to deny the city’s Motion to Dismiss.

Need for a hearing Because “there are disputed material facts which cannot be resolved” based on the pleadings filed in the case, McHugh continued in her order, “an evidentiary hearing is appropriate …”

During the hearing, she asks that the city address the following: • When the SKA asked city officials to determine that the Lido Renourishment Project is consistent with Action Strategy 1.1.

• Which city officials made an official determination that the project is consistent with Action Strategy 1.1.

• When City officials made an official determination that the project is consistent with Action Strategy 1.1.

• “How City officials gave public notice to aggrieved or adversely affected parties of the Project,” that the initiative is consistent with Action Strategy 1.1.

8

Siesta Sand

MAY 2019

941.349.0194

www.siestasand.net

All Roads Lead To…

5204 Ocean Blvd., in the Siesta Key Village

Big G’s Oyster Happy Hour from 3-6 Every day 1/2 Priced House Oysters

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

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

Live Music Every Day and Night

Daily Drink Specials

The month of May in Florida promises one final month of idyllic weather before the humidity sets in.

Made In Rome Organic Gelato (MIROG) is celebrating this month with two scrumptious flavors; strawberry daiquiri and chocolate cherry to honor all mom’s (Mother’s Day: May 12th) and in memory of all our brave veterans (Memorial Day: May 27th).

Take the taste-test challenge The owners challenge you to try these flavors and let them know how they stacks up. Would you proudly serve these flavors to mom on her special day or eat in honor of a loved veteran? Your vote will help determine if it gets added to the all-time favorite flavors list.

Made In Rome Organic Gelato, made by real Romans, uses all certified USDA organic ingredients and offers sugar-free, gluten-free, and vegan options.

Although there are numerous shops around the U.S. selling gelato, you’d have to take a trip to Italy to find another gelateria were only organic ingredients are used exclusively, and a new batch, made from scratch, is created every 15 minutes.

By using more milk than cream, no egg yolks, along with a slow-churn process, your taste buds will be doing a happy dance with the intense flavors and silky textures this low calorie option provides. Old family recipes that have been improved over the decades are in use and new flavors are developed every month.

There are 45 flavors to choose from and the staff at Made In Rome Organic Gelato generously provide samples of their made from scratch, in-house gelato, where a new flavor is produced every 15 minutes, and, as their name implies, all ingredients used are organic.

No hydrogenated fats or colorants, or preservatives are ever used.

e m o R From th Love wi

Vegans rejoice Yes vegans, you can make this one of your go-to places because Made In Rome Organic Gelato is vegan friendly offering a selection of gelato, cones, shakes, and even a vegan affogato al caffe.

Whether you choose vegan-friendly or not, the affogato al caffe; a double shot of espresso topped with a scoop of gelato…any flavor, continues to be a customer favorite. Says owner, Diane Theron-Cuna, “People go crazy for this!”

What customers are saying One way to gauge the type of experience you can expect at any establishment is by customer feedback.

The following review could be MIROG’s best advertising yet: This is the most incredible gelato/ice cream I’ve ever had.

Fresh, creamy, and flavor is unequal [to] anything else. I come from a long line of gourmet cooks and chefs and I cannot say enough about the quality and flavor of their products! Much, much better than the place right next door that people line up for. Fi only they realized what they were missing and recognized they were lining up for the wrong place! Wow, I’d give it a hundred stars if they were that many to give! ~ C.H., Apr. 5, 2019 Made In Rome Organic Gelato is located at 5204 Ocean Blvd., in the Siesta Key Village. Their hours are 11:00 a.m. to 11:00 p.m. daily. (941) 960-5344. (Advertorial)

www.siestasand.net

941.349.0194

MAY 2019

Sarasota resident Guillermo Vidal: an immigrant’s story By Diana Colson Guillermo Vidal fled Cuba as a boy. Born in 1951, he was to rise through the ranks of the Colorado Department of Transportation and become executive director and part of Governor Roy Romer’s cabinet. Following his stint with the state, he took a job with the city of Denver as manager of public works and deputy mayor, ultimately becoming the 44th Mayor of Denver in 2011 after then mayor John Hickenlooper was elected governor of Colorado. Following that stellar achievement, he became President and CEO of the Hispanic Chamber of Commerce in Metro Denver.

The story of his early life is a remarkable one. Born in Camaguey, Cuba, to Roberto and Marta Vidal, he and his brothers were sent by themselves to the United States in 1961 via Operation Peter Pan. They ended up at the Sacred Heart Orphanage in Pueblo, Colorado, and were not reunited with their parents until four long years later. Young Guillermo had the fortitude to overcome this difficult beginning, going on to earn a bachelor’s degree in civil engineering from the University of Colorado. He then became a registered professional engineer, garnering 37 years of experience in the public sector of state and city government.

He is the author of two books. The first was Boxing for CubaAn Immigrant’s story, in which he details the difficulties of his family’s immigration story that began in Cuba. He came from an affluent, upper middle-class Cuban family with servants who catered to their every need. His two brothers were fraternal twins and a year and a half older than Guillermo, and he looked up to them.

His father was a successful businessman, while their mother was both gorgeous and gregarious. Their marriage was extremely volatile, often making he and his brothers the casualties of their marital war.

His father seemed cold and emotionally aloof, appearing to resent his youngest son. No matter how hard he tried, Guillermo could not gain his father’s approval, even later as a high-achieving adult.

His mother was emotionally unbalanced, prone to bouts of rage that culminated in the physical abuse of her three sons.

Guillermo spent his childhood walking on eggshells to avoid his parent’s ire.

Then came Castro’s Revolution and the boys’ subsequent exile.

The parents made the unthinkable decision of sending their three boys to the US seeking political asylum. Family members were supposed to meet them at the Miami airport, but they did not. In a strange land, Guillermo and his brothers felt utterly

deserted and abandoned.

An American based refugee program called Operation Peter Pan took over. It had placed 14,000 Cuban refugees in orphanages and foster homes around the country. Guillermo and his brothers were sent to a Catholic Orphanage in Pueblo, Colorado, relieved at least to be together!

Although they were fed and clothed, the orphanage was an austere place run like a prison. Within its confines emerged a culture of violence. It was a terrible experience, much like Lord of the Flies!

It took four years before the parents could finally reunite with their sons. By then, their stormy marriage had deteriorated to mutual hatred and cruelty. No escape was visible until the boys came of age and could move out.

Guillermo was emotionally scarred by his experiences. As an adult, he worked hard to get people to like him, causing him to cling stubbornly to everyone in his life, even those people who harmed him. He strove obsessively to get people to accept him, always trying to the be best; best at sports, best at school, best at every new project he took on during his career. His achievements were multitudinous with the Colorado Department of Transportation (CDOT), yet they were unfulfilling. This realization ushered in him a deep, debilitating depression.

It was his counselors that saved him. In his own words: “They helped me discover that contentment and fulfillment came not from the accumulating of worldly titles or awards: it came from working with others to create something greater than myself.”

Vidal stayed on with CDOT and would reach a pinnacle of his career when he became the head of the department under the governor. But his father refused to acknowledge his accomplishment, accusing him of being incapable of achieving such a coveted position without foul play. He then disclaimed Guillermo as his son.

For Guillermo it was an epiphany. “How freeing it was to know Í could do nothing to please my father, so I no longer needed to try. It left me free to live the rest of my life without having to seek his love and approval.”

Vidal has been married twice, each relationships lasting 20-years. Although there were many good years, both relationships came to an end. The scaffolding of career, home and family collapsed simultaneously after his second

Island Visitor Publishing, LLC

9

divorce, and Guillermo found himself devastated.

After much reflection, he developed a daily spiritual practice, practiced meditation, and found his connection with the Higher Source that exists in all living things. His experiences motivated him to write his second book: Catch and Release-One Man’s Improbable Search for True Love and the Meaning of Life, as a way to help others successfully cope with difficult life transitions. He also writes a blog on life lessons that is published twice a week on several publications. You can sign up for them by going to his website: www.guillermovidal.me “It is strange that I had to reach my sixties to unearth my authenticity, but I have learned that our spiritual progression follows no calendar or clock. From the connection I now have with my truest self, I apply my writing, speaking and teaching to help other find their true source.

“Our stories can delineate for us the greatest purpose of our lives. Take time today to share your story with others.”

Both books make fascinating reads! They are available on Amazon and Kindle. You may download the first 5 chapters of Catch and Release, as a free PDF file at www.guillermovidal. me/shop.

10

Siesta Sand

MAY 2019

941.349.0194

www.siestasand.net

Sarasota Bay Estuary Program unveils preliminary concept for Rachel Brown Hackney improving habitat on Jim Neville Preserve By SarasotaNewsLeader.com The Sarasota Bay Estuary Program is working on a concept to restore native habitat to two connected islands off Siesta Key on which spoil material was dumped during the creation of the Intracoastal Waterway (ICW).

On April 4, Mark Alderson, executive director of the Sarasota Bay Estuary Program (SBEP), explained the preliminary facets of the project to about 50 members of the Siesta Key Association (SKA) during their regular meeting. The goal, he said, is to remove the spoil mounds and the exotic vegetation — such as Australian pines, Brazilian peppertrees and carrotwood trees — and restore the islands of the Jim Neville Marine Preserve to pristine condition.

The SBEP is looking at two potential funding sources, he pointed out: BP money provided through the RESTORE Act, which was established in the aftermath of BP’s 2010 Deepwater Horizon oil spill in the Gulf of Mexico; and the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers (USACE).

The earliest he felt the SBEP could secure funding would be in two years, Alderson noted; that would be if the USACE’s South District ends up being the source. “The BP money has been… very slow to come.”

The Southwest Florida Water Management District (SWFWMD) has indicated its willingness to match other funds the SBEP can secure for the project, he noted.

Probably by next winter, he continued, the SBEP would be ready to conduct a community charrette to gain the views of the public about the potential project. “We’re going to be looking for feedback.”

He would make certain, he added, that the SKA would have notice well in advance of the session, so any interested members could attend it. The SBEP plans to advertise the charrette widely, to encourage public participation, he said.

In explaining the concept, Alderson told the audience that the Jim Neville Preserve was donated to Sarasota County by the Palmer family. “I have talked to the family members about this proposed initiative,” he continued, because the deed requires family members to give their consent to any action taken on the property. “They’re 100% in favor of this concept.”

The Neville Preserve, he pointed out, is “not walkable. It’s not usable.” It is overrun by exotic vegetation.

Referring to the more northern spoil mound, Alderson said, “It’s not really conducive for anything to grow on, because it’s so hard.”

After the ICW was constructed, he explained, the spoil material from that project, dumped on the islands, “changed their ecological character…”

The initial focus of the project calls for removing enough of the mounds to take their elevation to 1 to 2 feet, Alderson said.

Then the SBEP would “create birding and wildlife habitat,” as well as kayak and canoe trails. “We think the preserve could be a Mecca for ecotourism throughout our region.”

The SBEP has undertaken about 90 similar projects in the area, he pointed out. Showing the SKA members slides, he noted that when a project recently was underway to restore native habitat on North Lido Key, “The residents never knew it was going on, and they live right there adjacent to it.” The SBEP took care to ensure its habitat restoration area there was enclosed by mangroves, he explained.

Residents on Siesta Key who live across from the Neville Marine Preserve likewise probably would notice little about the work underway on the spoil islands, he said.

More of the details

After removing the spoil material in the Neville Preserve, Alderson continued, “We went to plant spartina. … Mangroves will naturally come in. They just need a little bit of substrate to get started.”

Within about 15 years, he said, mangrove tunnels would be common in the preserve. He added that those tunnels are very popular with tourists, who like to canoe and kayak through them.

Still, he stressed, “It’s really up to you all as to what might happen.” The SBEP has not applied yet for any permits, he pointed out. “There’s no design.

When an audience member asked whether the SBEP plans to remove all the Australian pines, Alderson replied that that is one of its goals. Those trees, he noted, “provide shade on beaches,” but the SBEP is focused on “ecological integrity” in its restoration of the Neville Marine Preserve. “If you want classic bird habitat and fish and wildlife habitat, you’d do much better with mangroves.”

(Over the years, speakers on other topics at SKA meetings have explained that Australian pines are bad for the environment, as the trees displace native species.)

One woman in the audience pointed out that she lives in a condominium that enables her to look out onto Jim Neville Preserve. “It’s teeming with fish,” she said of the waterway in that area, adding that she also has seen eagles and roseate spoonbills. Further, she told Alderson, white pelicans visit each year. “It’s already really pretty pristine,” with lots of mangroves, she said of the preserve. “It worries me that you’re going to mess up Mother Nature by bringing more people into that area.”

The county has too few places, left, the woman said, where birds can nest, and wildlife can find respite, away from humans.

“We need everybody’s input here,” Alderson responded.

“We’re not going to destroy anything that’s already native out there. That’s not our concept.”

The primary focus, he stressed, would be eliminating the spoil mounds so native habitat could thrive.

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941.349.0194

MAY 2019

Anita Kincade - Volunteer Emeritus at Mote

By Diana Colson Anita Kincade has been named Volunteer Emeritus for Mote Marine Lab after 27 years volunteering for the Sea turtle Program. She was recognized in 2005 for 15 years, in 2010 for 20 years, and in 2015 for 25 years of dedicated volunteer service. On each occasion, she was presented with a gorgeous crystal award, treasures she keeps in her home to remind her of remarkable experiences.

Originally from Western NY State, Anita and her late husband moved to Sarasota in 1990 where she connected immediately with Mote, a much smaller organization at the time. The Sea Turtle mating season extends from May 1st to November 1st, and volunteers sign up to work at least one morning a week. Volunteers are thoroughly trained before they start and are retrained once a year after that.

After training, Anita would get up before dawn one morning a week and be at the beach at first light when one can see tracks and nests of the turtles and observe any other turtle activity. Volunteers were tracking primarily loggerheads, but there were also greens and an occasional Kemp’s Ridley.

When female sea turtles are ready to lay eggs, they usually return to the same beach where they were born–the only time they ever return to land. These enormous creatures lumber ashore during the night, laying approximately 1 to 8 nests per season, each nest holding approximately 100 eggs. Some percentage of crawls are “false crawls”, where turtles wander back and forth, but nothing happens. Volunteers are trained to recognize these “false crawls” as they must also be reported.

Mote’s Sea Turtle program extends over 25-30 miles of beach, from Casperson Beach all the way to Longboat.

Each volunteer is given a specific zone of beach to walk, and each zone is about ½ mile in length.

Anita served as a “non-permitted” volunteer, which means she was assigned to call Mote no later than 7:30 in the morning to report any activity on the beach.

No beach will be raked until after calls are received and nests have been marked and staked. During her recorded call, Anita gave the exact location of the nest.

To do this, she reported the address of nearby buildings taken from photographs shot from the beach. Following these 7:30 a.m. phone reports, sites must be located, verified, and staked by permitted professionals from Mote.

In their search for sand that is soft enough to dig their pits, sea turtles sometimes go through the sea oats, under picnic tables or under benches. When suitable sand is found, they dig down about a foot before laying their eggs. Afterwards, they cover eggs up with their flippers, and pat the nest down to camouflage it.

At the edge of the water, volunteers look for signs of a crawl. Flipper marks vary with the turtle. If there is no sign of a tail drag, it is probably a loggerhead. If a tail drag is sited, it probably was a green. It is interesting to learn that that the sex of the baby turtle emerging from the egg has been determined by temperature of the sand. (Sands on Siesta are cooler than most beaches because of the high degree of crystal.)

Anita says, “For many years these sea turtles were gravely threatened. But for the last several years, their numbers are much better. Protection seems to be working!”

Once the first nests are laid, volunteers watch for hatchings, new crawls, new nests, and false crawls. They also check older nests. After a storm, a nest might be washed-over or even washed-out, meaning the nest is completely gone. 12 to 48 hours before each nest is to open, it drops about 8”. That telltale drop is reported to Mote.

According to Anita, “Each stake has a nest ID, which has a ton of information on it. The date, the address, the name of the permitted person who has verified the nest, the zone number, etc. There is also a record of whether an animal has damaged the nest, and whether the nest has dropped. If it hasn’t hatched 4 days after a drop, a professional goes out to check the nest.”

Average incubation time is 50 days, although 41-82 days have been recorded. When hatching takes place, disorientation can happen. Babies go the wrong way, towards homes and sea oats instead of the water. Says Anita, “After hatching, you follow the little tracks. You start looking. If you find one that’s lost, you put the turtle in a bucket with wet sand, place a towel over it and take it to Mote or send for someone to retrieve it.

The babies must make it on their own. If disorientated, they might be exhausted, or might have been attacked by fire ants. Mote will release them when they are well.”

Only about 1 in a thousand hatchlings make it. At 100 eggs per nest, that means only one out of every 10 nests survives.

Volunteers carry with them their cell phone, flags, a bucket for wayward babies, pen, notebook, address sheets with photographs of buildings, and brochures for inquisitive beach walkers. Says Anita, “We wear our official volunteer t-shirts. People are amazingly interested and protective of nests and want to know this and that and more. We always spend time with them talking and explaining. We carry information cards to give them. We also carry trash bags to pick up mylar balloons and other stuff along the way.”

Volunteers do not go out on the beach during lightning. If a storm is brewing, they are to wait before going out. If it is only raining, they go out anyway.

Should a volunteer be ill or out of town, they find their own replacement, drawing from a list of substitutes.

Some regulars are available to substitute on alternate days.

Anita Kincade loves the organization! “I can’t say enough good things about Mote Marine Lab and director Michael Cosby. They are all very young in spirit. Everybody is excited. Mote is good to their volunteers, and their volunteers reflect that. There is a lot of caring for marine life and for the environment.

Soon the City Island compound will become an international research facility and the aquarium will be reborn on the mainland.”

Mote’s volunteer corps is over 1,000 strong and offers great opportunities! Applications may be found at: www.mote.org/support/volunteer

Island Visitor Publishing, LLC

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12

Siesta Sand

MAY 2019

941.349.0194

www.siestasand.net

A True Story… as told by Sandy Kelley, Sarasota resident Submitted by Dee Ricapito Open Daily 7am-9pm

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It was 1967 and those were the days when it was very likely you would be drafted as the U.S. became more involved in the Vietnam War. John Kelley was from Binghamton, New York. Tom Giardina was from Lexington, Kentucky. Both wanted to fly airplanes and enlisted in the navy.

They met at flight training school in Pensacola, Florida. They were roommates and became very good friends. They trained hard and partied hard which resulted in a great friendship.

John was trained on prop planes and Tom trained on jet planes.

Eventually Tom would go on to be stationed in the Mediterranean flying fighter planes off aircraft carriers. John left pilot training and was sent to Vietnam to manage an officer’s club. Tom became a career naval officer and John returned to civilian life. They kept in touch. Both developed a passion for sailing and Tom joined John on sailing trips in the Caribbean and Lake Ontario.

But as it happens in life, the years went by and eventually they lost touch. John moved several times and ended up in Florida at The Landings. Tom retired from the navy and cruised for three years on his sailboat. They both tried to find each other without success. Tom even searched the obituaries for his long lost friend. John always wondered what became of his old friend.

Then one day (this is the part that gives me goosebumps) John was walking off the court at The Landings after playing tennis. He saw Bonnie Cummings watching her grandson, Jeffrey, play and went over to say hi. Bonnie and John talked for a few minutes then she introduced him to an old friend of hers who she and Andre worked with at the Navy Department in Washington, DC. His name was Tom… After a few seconds Tom jumped out of his chair ran over to John threw his arms around him and shouted – “It’s John Kelley!” (A few expletives have been

Burger-luscious

The traffic laws and the Breeze

Named one of the best burgers in Sarasota, this mile-high burger may not officially be on the menu at Alpine Steakhouse but if you ask for the Steakhouse burger, you will not be denied.

So what sets this tower of perfection apart from other burgers? It starts with a freshly ground in-house, ½ lb. sirloin patty that promises to always be fresh and juicy and cooked exactly to your preference. This succulent foundation is then topped with Swiss cheese, thick strips of smoked jowl bacon for a burst of smokiness, golden fried onion rings, slices of tomato, lettuce, and a dollop of mayo all sandwiched between a freshly toasted Kaiser bun.

As if this belly buster needs anything more, a side is included in the price. All sides are homemade. Oh sure, you can get the traditional side of French fries, but why would you when their selection offers so much more?

And did I mention, all their sides are homemade?

Displayed in their deli-case are side selections

such as potato salad (German or American), heart healthy coleslaw, macaroni salad, sauerkraut, red cabbage, cucumber salad, just to name a few.

Come and get it at Alpine Steakhouse Meats & Deli, located at 4520 S. Tamiami Trail. www.alpinesteak.com 941-922-3797. (Advertorial)

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omitted since this is a family paper).

It took several seconds for John to comprehend that this was his old buddy from the navy who he hadn’t seen for over 25 years.

Needless to say they spent time together over the next few days reminiscing about the good old days and catching up on their lives since they were last together.

Tom and his wife Dana had visited Bonnie and Andre a few years before at The Landings unknown to either John or Tom that they were that close to reuniting. Tom lives near Jacksonville, Florida now and so does John’s grandson. Hopefully they will be able to connect again in the future.

So miracles do happen. What are the odds? This one had a happy ending.

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It’s a small world. After 25 years, friends Tom Giardina (l) and John Kelly (r) are reunited

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941.923.1232

Next to Phillippi Estate Park.

Serving Siesta Key and Sarasota

www.IsanThaiRestaurant.com

Since the Siesta Key Breeze open-air trolley began operating in March 2016, members of the public have complained about getting stuck behind it in traffic.

During the April 4 Siesta Key Association (SKA) meeting, Director Erin Kreis brought up the issue, but from a safety standpoint. Noting that she was asking the question for someone else, she told Sgt. Paul Cernansky, leader of the Sheriff’s Office substation on the Key, “We’ve seen a lot of cars passing the trolley in the left-hand turn lane.”

Would the Sheriff’s Office be able to go after such offenders, she continued, if cameras mounted on the trolleys recorded the violations?

“We can’t do enforcement based on that,” Cernansky replied.

Officers have to witness a violation before they can write a traffic citation, he added.

Cernansky told Kreis that he was well aware of drivers’ frustrations.

“Trust me, I feel like I’m always the one stuck behind the trolley.”

However, he stressed, “You can’t use a turn lane to pass.”

On the positive side of the equation, he continued, the Sheriff’s Office sees the trolley as taking one car off the road for each passenger.

(Mark Smith, past chair of the Siesta Key Chamber of Commerce, has used a more conservative count, saying he believes the ratio is one less vehicle for every two trolley passengers.)

In response to a request, Lisa Potts, communications specialist with Sarasota County Area Transit (SCAT), provided the March ridership figure for the Breeze. It was 62,699. “We were busy!” she wrote in an email.

Answering another question during the SKA meeting, Cernansky said that drivers can pass the trolley only in situations when a broken yellow line divides the lanes of the road.

Continued on page 14

www.siestasand.net

941.349.0194

MAY 2019

BURGERS, BOWLS, & CRAFT BEER! Gulf Gate Food + Beer is a modern spin on the classic sports bar. Yes, there are lots of TVs, great chicken wings, and paper towel rolls on each table, but it’s a whole lot more than that.

The rustic décor, blue tufted leather booths, and unique menu options really set it apart from the average sports bar we all know and love. Owners Casey & Mike feel diners are more quality conscious and want to experience more unique menu items when dining out.

Mike & Casey With that in mind they’ve put together a menu that is anything but typical.

The menu features a selection of craft burgers, unique sandwiches, vegetarian & vegan options, fun shareable sides & appetizers, & protein bowls served over sticky rice, quinoa, or a citrus arugula base.

The variety and creativity of the menu has made this a hit with the Gulf Gate & Siesta Key Kona Blue Cheese Burger locals.

Looking for a drink? If craft beers is your passion they have 16 draft lines that rotate often but always feature beers from local breweries. Calusa, Big Top, Jdubs, Motorworks, & Naughty Monk to name a few.

They have a modest but decent wine list which features a $4 house white & house red all day every day. Cocktails anyone?

Gulf Gate Food + Beer does not have a full liquor license, but they do have craft cocktails made blue cheese burger” that is topped with blue from sake & wine based spirts. Also featured is cheese crumbles, bacon, caramelized onions and a $3.50 mimosa daily and a mimosa flight with a Kona coffee rub. I’d recommend having it while watching your March Madness team on any of 4 different juices & garnishes.

For the vegetarian crowd Gulf Gate Food + the 16 TV’s. They also have the MLB & NFL Beer proudly serves the plant based “impossible packages so don’t miss a game this upcoming burger” made by www.impossiblefoods.com. season!

They also make a “meatless meatball” appetizer The kitchen is open late every night of the week and a “NO MEAT ball sub”. You heard that serving a full menu from open until close. Friday right… a meatball sub made without meat. & Saturday they are open until 2am and 1am all They serve this on a garlic bread hoagie, with other nights. Gulf Gate Food + Beer has become mozzarella & parmesan cheeses, spinach & their the late-night hot spot with the service industry, night owls, & midnight snackers! From 11am to pink marinara.

Semi typical sports bar fare? Come check 3pm Monday through Friday they offer a cheap out the PB+J wings made with peanut butter lunch for $6.99 as well. and a house made jalapeno jelly. Are you a So if you haven’t had the chance yet come check burger lover? They have 5 different types of out Gulf Gate Food + Beer. Say hello to Mike craft burgers that are all available in a single or & Casey and come enjoy some craft beers with double patty version. My favorite is the “Kona some south Sarasota locals! Advertorial

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Big Water Fish Market Retail Market & Restaurant Now with 2 Locations on Siesta Key to Serve You

SIESTA KEY’S HOME OF THE STONE CRAB CLAWS Season Ends May 15th

Monday - Grouper BLT Tuesday - Tuna Tuesdays Wednesday - Softshell Crab Sandwich Thursday - Lobster Roll Friday - Pompano Cubano

We offer a fun and affordable assortment of unique coastal themed souvenirs, gifts, home decor, artwork by local artists, t-shirts, hats, beach gear and more!

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Siesta Sand

MAY 2019

941.349.0194

Seafood lovers, it’s good and fresh Yelp review: I see why this place is all five stars. Amazing find, tucked away in a nondescript strip mall adds to its local, simple vibe.

Best seafood I have had in a long time. Service made it feel like we were part of the family, four happy diners tonight. If you read this post, stop searching and start eating. Seriously do not pass up this little gem.

Here’s what more patrons are saying about the restaurant online: Tried this place last night on a whim and it did not disappoint!

Everything from the staff, to the menu, to the meal itself was perfection.

It’s a small place and luckily we’d come in between dinner rushes and got a table right away. Within 10 mins the place was full again. The wait staff was smiling and helpful.

We shared stone crab soup to start with a couple of ice cold beers, tons of crab in the soup and excellent flavor. For our meals we got blackened tripletail and snow crab claws. Each came with a side of roasted potatoes.

I can’t say enough about how fresh and delicious the entire meal was.

We will be back!

Siesta resident Michael Shay, who manages the Siesta Key Village Maintenance Corp., has proven a very good reporter about traffic accidents on Ocean Boulevard that damage county and private structures.

One of the prime incident locations is the curve just north of the Gleason Avenue intersection.

On March 23, however, Shay noted that the latest “target” for an accident was the wall adjacent to the Oceane condominium complex, which is under construction on Big Pass, across from the Givens Street intersection.

Shay wrote of the “baptism overnight” for the “BRAND NEW cinder block retaining wall at Oceane.”

He saw the driver still in the truck at 7:15 a.m. that day, he added.

The front of the vehicle was crumpled, he noted.

Kaitlyn R. Perez, community affairs director for the Sheriff’s Office, kindly provided a copy of the incident report.

The call came in at 2:30 a.m. on March 23, according to the report.

The driver was Nicholas David Fouts, 34, of Bismark Way in Sarasota, the report said. Fouts was traveling north on Ocean Boulevard at an estimated speed of 35 mph, which is the posted speed limit, the report pointed out.

His vehicle was a 1998 Ford F150, the report said.

As Fouts approached the Givens Street intersection, the report continued, the vehicle veered off the road in the curve and struck the retaining wall and a temporary construction fence, “causing minor damage to the fence and wall.”

I was so glad to find this cute restaurant and fish market. To get a high-quality fish you need a fish market and this fits the bill. I wanted a takeout fish plate and I got the blackened pompano with potatoes and corn. I made a salad at home and had a beautiful meal. The corn was not overlooked. It also has a big counter so the next time I will order some oysters and try another dish. It’s much bigger than I thought. I am going to become a regular.

See more reviews online at Yelp and Trip Advisor.

Special orders and reservations accepted.

Fresh Catch Fish Market and Grill is open from 11 a.m. to 8 p.m., Monday through Saturday. 941-413-7133, freshcatchfishmarketandgrill.com (Advertorial)

Continued on page 16

On little Sarasota Bay CASUAL WATERFRONT DINING

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3-5 PM SPECIAL MOTHER’S DAY MENU H APPY HOUR DAILY

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Entrée Choices: Grilled Salmon, Stuffed Flounder, Potato Crusted North Atlantic Haddock, Goerges Bank Sea Scallops & Crab Cake, Loaded New York Strip, Grouper Almondine, Roasted Prime Rib of Beef, Filet & Shrimp, Filet & Lobster Tail [Entrees served w/hot rolls & butter, Fresh Chef’s Vegetables, and Starch] * No Happy Hour, Sunday Brunch or Early Bird Dinner Specials will be available for Mother’s Day

HAPPY HOUR 3-5 PM DAILY • Discounted Well Drinks • Bar Appetizers $2.99- $3.99

Continued from page 12

A crash ‘baptism’ for another wall

WOW! WOW! WOW! This place is a hidden gem! Fish was fresh today and you could taste the difference. Very clean kitchen. They cooked the fish to perfection and the presentation was 5 stars like you would expect at a fancy resort; those extra added steps. This place is the real deal. Only thing that made me upset was that I never knew it was here before.

Sooooood GOOD! This is must try!

Be Sure To Make Early Reservations For Mother’s Day

Staff Report

Whenever solid double yellow lines separate the lanes, he emphasized, no passing is allowed.

Discussion also arose about the fact that the trolley cannot just stop anywhere to pick up passengers. “You can’t just be walking down Midnight Pass Road and wave,” as Cernansky put it.

We took the opportunity to ask Potts of SCAT for clarification about the trolley’s pickup and drop-off policy. In an April 8 email, she wrote, “Waving the trolley between stops is not authorized between Stickney Point Road and Siesta Village. Passengers must use the SCAT stops and Morton’s Siesta Market. However, passengers CAN wave the trolley between Turtle Beach Park and Stickney Point Road.”

Potts also provided a link to the trolley’s map and schedule: https:// www.scgov.net/home/showdocument?id=38249 The Breeze normally operates Monday through Sunday from 10 a.m. to 10 p.m., the schedule shows. Its hours on Friday and Saturday during high tourist season are extended until midnight, the schedule notes. The Breeze also runs on major holidays.

Cernansky suggested that SKA members with ideas about how to improve the traffic flow situation involving the trolley contact Siesta Chamber directors and staff. “They’re in the best position to respond to the issues.”

Then new SKA Director Tom Surprise announced that the trolley and the associated traffic complaints are an issue he has been working on since he was elected to the board in March. He will be talking with Sarasota County staff about proposals, he added.

For example, Surprise said, signage pointing out that the center leftturn lanes are for left turns only would be helpful. Further, he noted, county staff needs to ensure that double yellow lines are painted clearly on the roadways to show where no passing is allowed.

Surprise indicated that he would have more information to convey to members during their May meeting.

Living in Florida, you expect to find fresh seafood no matter where you dine. If you are a local seafood lover, you probably have a mental list of go-to restaurants which serve the freshest seafood. Fresh Catch Fish Market & Grill needs to be added to it.

Fresh Catch’s father/son duo, Bob and Devon Provost have a serious passion for seafood which started way back when the family lived in the Boston area. Their simply prepared, neverfried, never-frozen dishes are paired with a variety of simple sauces that serve to complement, so the freshness of the seafood shines.

Your fish/seafood selection goes from the case onto the grill.

Prepared grilled or blackened, topped with lemon and butter, Pico de Gallo or tropical salsa. Served with a fresh ear of corn on the cob and baby roasted potatoes. Soups, salads, sandwiches and steam pots round out the menu. If room permits, be sure to order a slice of their homemade key lime pie. Bob’s wife, Debra, makes the key lime pie, using freshly whipped cream. The restaurant also offers a nice selection of beers and wines.

Fresh Catch Fish Market & Grill, located at 7119 S. Tamiami Trail, just south of Stickney Point Road in the Buccaneer Plaza, is a casual restaurant/market with indoor and outdoor seating for close to 30.

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Flavors of India Sarasota - Authentic Indian cuisine celebrating 7 years Flavors of India Sarasota is located in a strip mall about ¼ mile south of the Stickney Point Bridge. The outside of this restaurant appears unassuming, but as you enter you may think you’re in Indian heaven taking in the aromas that greet you with their authentic Indian Cuisine.

To help celebrate their 7th anniversary, Flavors of India is offering their daily lunch buffets at $5.99 during the week. Buffet luncheons are served from 11:30 am – 3 pm and offer a generous selection of items.

The dinner menu is being discounted at 20% and starts from 3 p.m. and lasts until 10 pm. On the weekends they offer a Maharaja Buffet for $12.99. Menu selections are also available for lunch. In addition to the traditional Mango Lassi, Masala tea, and Madras coffee, beer and wine are also available for lunch and dinner.

From the many positive reviews, it is evident service and kitchen staff are professionally trained and continuously work to provide a quality service experience.

As one customer noted, “Fantastic! Greeted by smiles and enthusiasm in this lovely, cozy Indian restaurant.”

As for the food, well, just take a glimpse of some of the many comments posted on yelp and Trip Advisor. ***Reeeeally great flavors. I don’t eat buffets usually but my friend and I were in a pinch for time so I made a compromise.... I’ve now returned 4 times. This is unlike any buffet I have had Indian or otherwise. It goes on and on: chutneys, salsas, salads, a couple vegetarian and several meat curries, rice and Briyani dishes, breads and desserts, with plenty of fresh Naan brought to the table - perfectly cooked and not greasy. Both times everything was very fresh and good quality, super flavorful! It’s only $10 too - ridiculously good - it’s a must try. ***Went for dinner on a Wednesday night and my group had a paneer dish, a lamb dish and a vegetarian dish along with Mango Lassi and paneer naan. All were excellent. The service was very good, our server was very friendly and helpful. The rice was particularly tasty, I’m

always impressed when a restaurant manages to master something that is so simple. The lamb vindaloo was VERY spicy, which is exactly how I like it. Delicious food, reasonable prices and great service. Highly recommend this place if you’re in the area. ***Just recently discovered via Yelp review.

New owners. Food is authentic, fresh, beautifully prepared. They are from Kerala and menu offerings include many North and South Indian favorites. Kerala style shrimp curry was outstanding. Lunch buffet is varied and generous! Wait staff informative, welcoming and kind-hearted!!

***I have dined here once and I have to say the food was outstanding. When I dine out I rarely eat Indian as I never feel that the food taste like home (I am Indian). But my experience at Flavors of India was different. The beef fry was so much like the one u get back home. I tried beef, shrimp, Chole Bature and also a goat curry. Every single dish was delicious! Great staff and friendly service!!! ***The best buffet selection I’ve seen in a long time! The food was delicious. They have a great assortment of food from samosas to goat

rogen josh! Everything is worth trying! And the chicken tikka masala is sooo good! Open on Sunday’s and has a very friendly staff. We will be returning again very soon. ***This is an excellent Indian restaurant and I’ve eaten at several throughout the US. Authentic and delicious and great service too! ***I highly recommend this restaurant! My family and I just moved here from Texas and we love Indian food so we decided to go there. We started with some samosas and as soon as we opened them steam came out; you can tell that they were just made and they tasted delicious!

I split the butter chicken with my mom and that was plenty for the both of us (basmati rice included). The sauce was to die for and the chicken was extremely tender to the point where I didn’t need a knife to cut it. My dad got the chicken vindaloo and I’ve never seen him devour a meal so quickly! He even asked for a second helping of rice. Our waiter was amazing and the atmosphere was relaxing. We have definitely found our hidden gem in paradise! ***7 of us eat dinner at Flavors of India and we all would rate the experience with 5 stars.

Every entree was well prepared, with excellent sauces, generous sizes, and good service. It’s been hard to find a 5 star Indian restaurant.

While only open 5 months, they have already set a high bar. This place is now a must on all our lists.

“Our customers are our guests, and we treat our guests like god,” says owner Vinny Pratap, “ ‘Athithi Devo Bhava’ is our motto.”

That pretty much sums up why they have such a loyal following.

Flavors of India is located at 7119 S Tamiami Trail, Ste. E, Sarasota, FL 34231.

(941) 921-9200. Hours of operation are: Mon, Wed, and Thurs - 11:30 am - 9:30 pm.

Fri, Sat, Sun - 11:30 am - 10:00 pm. They are closed on Tuesdays. They also have a Flavors of India restaurant located in Cocoa Beach and Port Charlotte.

(Advertorial)

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Time has come to take another look at Sarasota County shoreline hardening policies, board chair suggests

By Rachel Brown Hackney SarasotaNewsLeader.com

HourS

Is it time for the Sarasota County Commission to amend the County Code to remove the decades-old policies against shoreline hardening?

7515 South Tamiami Trail Sarasota, FL 34231 That is the question Chair Charles Hines asked on April 9 as he proposed a workshop on the issue.

His suggestion came the 2/15/19 12:17 PM same day the board members listened to tales of hardship from Manasota Key Beach property owners fighting erosion that has All Natural Beer, grown more severe in recent Fresh Fruit Wine years. Almost a dozen people and and talked of efforts to save their Veggie Bloody homes — and protect nesting sea turtles. A couple focused on the Marys difficulties of contending with county regulations regarding even the use of sandbags in emergency situations, plus the www.ToastedMangoCafe.com expense.

On April 9, Hines passed his colleagues photos to illustrate his concerns. “See what’s occurring, especially on Manasota Key and Casey Key.” On March 12, the commission approved the third Coastal Setback Class II Emergency Variance in less than a year for Casey Key property owners with shoreline structures close to collapsing.

About 20 or 30 years ago, Hines continued on April 9, “there was a strong environmental movement within Sarasota County Government… The No. 1 thing was protecting turtles, protecting public access to beaches. That made all the sense in the world.”

At that time, he pointed out, “We didn’t have homes getting ready to fall into the Gulf. That’s where we are today.”

“Our coastal dynamics have changed,” Hines said.

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A question of comfort level As evidenced by the numerous emails the board members have received, Hines said, “It’s not just hurricanes causing shoreline erosion.” Because of more routine storms that batter the coast, he

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added, “We’re almost seeing problems every other month.”

“We have taken a strong position,” he said of past county commissions, which discourages the hardening of the shoreline.

“I don’t know in recent years if we’ve approved a seawall on a beach when a seawall wasn’t already there.”

Hines is the longest serving of the current board members, having been elected to his first term in 2012. Term limits will force him to step down from the commission in 2020.

“I’m not advocating boulders and seawalls,” he told his colleagues. “But this board … should be discussing policy in a way to potentially change it.

I believe we need to do that …

Are we still against any shoreline hardening?”

If the decision is made to allow some hardening, he continued, under what circumstances would variances be appropriate?

Referencing comments by some of the Manasota Key property owners, Hines stressed that sandbags and other measures are allowed only on a temporary basis.

He talked of picturing himself as a homeowner, sitting on a back porch facing the Gulf of Mexico and seeing the beach gradually disappear, “10 feet at a time.”

What happens when the Gulf is only 25 feet away from that porch, he continued, noting that he was only about 25 feet from a person seated near the front of the Commission Chambers in Venice. “Does that make you comfortable?”

If the beach is 50 feet away from someone’s home, he pointed out, the next storm could wash away all the sand. “That’s 50 feet gone, and now we have a house falling in the water.”

Some of the commissioners on the board now, he said, may still be in those seats “when… homes fall into the water.”

Hines also noted that the area is experiencing more king tides “than I can ever remember as a kid… If you believe in sea level rise, then a few inches makes a big difference …”

No long-term coastal management options exist, he pointed out. Beach nourishment, he added, is the only means of dealing with erosion short of hardening the shoreline. “I’ve asked for other options for sixand-a-half years, from anywhere

in the world, other than boulders and seawalls, and no one has brought any forward.”

He asked his colleagues to read the county’s Coastal Setback Code and apply its regulations to the scenarios they have heard described during meetings.

Then he asked them whether they would be willing to have a workshop on the county’s policies.

Along with reading the code, Hines suggested his fellow commissioners talk with Casey Key and Manasota Key residents.

Commissioners’ reactions “I like what you’re doing here,” Commissioner Nancy Detert responded to the workshop proposal, adding that she supported the idea.

Detert continued, “I would like to hear from environmentalists and beach experts,” noting that she has seen shoreline hardening measures exacerbate erosion on the parcels on either side of the structures.

“I’d like for us to look at our whole policy,” Detert said, including allowing people to pursue construction seaward of the Gulf Beach Setback Line (GBSL). That line is a facet of the Coastal Setback Code, which was implemented in 1979. Staff has explained that the figurative GBSL exists to protect dunes and coastal vegetation, which, in turn, protect inland structures from storm surge.

Hines concurred with Detert about the need to hear from experts regarding how seawalls and other structures can create new problems.

“The biggest demonstration project for that type of situation,” Detert replied, “is the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers’ fiasco with the Venice Jetties.” Erosion is worse on both sides of those structures, she noted.

“I think it’s a good exercise, a good conversation to have,” Commissioner Christian Ziegler told Hines, referring to the workshop proposal.

Referring to the fact that he is the newest board member, Ziegler said he would like to learn more about the coastal issues “and what options are really out there.”

“We’ve got some folks that are really hurting,” Hines told his colleagues. “We need to have this discussion.”

Island Chatter Continued from page 14

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When an officer arrived on the scene, the report noted, Fouts said that he had to swerve to avoid hitting a car in the road. “However,” the officer wrote, “I was unable to substantiate his claim.”

No witnesses could be found, the report added.

It was not known whether Fouts had consumed any alcohol or drugs, the report said. No drug testing was conducted, the report noted.

Fouts was not injured, the report continued, and he refused medical treatment. He did tell the officer that he would take care of getting a tow truck himself, because of the time of day.

“No one at the construction scene was present,” the report also noted.

The most damaged area of the truck was the right front section, the report showed.

The officer did email Gilbane Building Co. of Sarasota, which is handling the Oceane construction, the report said, so the company could follow up with Fouts about the damage. The deputy estimated the total at $1,000.

The officer estimated damage to the truck at $3,000, the report added.

Continued on page 19

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Sheriff’s Report March 19 – April 22, 2019

Island Visitor Publishing, LLC

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There were 31 crimes reported on the Key between 3/19 - 4/22/19

3/26 Grand Theft/ Recovered Beach Rd. A deputy responded to a report of an unknown person removing four metal posts from the asphalt at Beach Access 2. The posts each had one square reflective sign attached. Estimated value of each post and sign was $100. The holes where the posts were attached were filled with sand. No video surveillance of the area was discovered. The complainant later called to say that the posts were removed by an employee, and that they were not stolen.

3/28 Possession of Marijuana over 20 g Minor in Possession of Alcohol Public Beach A 17-year-old girl was arrested for possession at the public beach. A deputy on night shift patrol noticed the girl carrying a Crown Royal bag that appeared to contain a glass bottle with a Crown Royal logo on the top.

Due to County Ordinance 90-33(a)(1) which prohibits “Holding, drinking from, possessing, or disposing of glass containers of any kind “on the beach, the girl was approached by the deputy. When advised to walk away from the crowd with the deputy, she became verbally defensive and uncooperative. The deputy removed the half empty bottle from the bag which also contained two plastic bags containing marijuana. Additionally, the defendant possessed two marijuana blunts protruding from her waistband. An attempt was made to issue a juvenile civil citation regarding the incident, but the girl continued a pattern of disrespectful behavior and gave inconsistent information when asked about her age.

She was placed under arrest and taken to the Juvenile assessment facility at the County Jail.

3/28 Battery A deputy radioed for backup at a Village bar in reference to a fight. A deputy arrived and found the deputy on the ground with a male who seemed to be calm at the time. The deputy told the subject to turn onto his stomach. The responding officer grabbed the subject’s arm and placed it behind his back to be handcuffed. He was then escorted outside. Upon further investigation it was determined that the subject had punched another man on the club floor. The victim signed a waiver of prosecution and the subject is not allowed back at the club.

3/31 Fraud use of person’s ID Location withheld A man came into the Sheriff’s office to turn in a completed identity theft affidavit. He reported that on or around 3/31/19, an unknown suspect exploited his name, date of birth and social security number in order to receive Comcast services in Louisiana. The complainant was alerted to the crime after being notified

by LifeLock. The Comcast account currently has a balance of approximately $791.

4/3 Possession of controlled substance (THC) Public Beach An officer was on patrol in reference to the large group of juveniles that gathered on the beach. He observed the group separate and witnessed the defendant pick up a vape pen from the sand and someone yell,” Oh he got it! “The officer made contact with the defendant and asked him what was in the pen he picked up, due to his knowledge that the pens are used to smoke “THC” wax/dab. He initially stated the vape pen was not his and that he wasn’t sure what was inside it. When asked his age the defendant said 18 and gave his identification which advised “Under 18 until 5/23/19”. When asked again the defendant admitted he was 17 and admitted to having a dab pen in his bag although, he said, the one he dropped was not his. Located in his backpack was a vape pen which contained a thick, green substance.

A marijuana field test confirmed a positive result. The defendant was cooperative and his father was contacted to take custody of the defendant. The defendant and his family advised they would be interested in a diversion program.

4/4 Grand Theft 5900 Block Midnight Pass Rd. A woman reported the theft of her rental bike.

She had rented two bikes and left them unattended/ unlocked at a bike rack on Midnight Pass Rd. One of the bikes was recovered at a nearby construction site and returned to the business. The other bike was still missing. The missing bike was a teal Sun beach cruiser with a bike basket, valued at $450.

4/6 Grand Theft Public Beach A woman reported her daughter was at the beach and realized her phone was missing. She was able to locate the iPhone 7 ($760) using find my iPhone at an address in Spring Hill, Florida in Hernando County. The Hernando County Sheriff’s office told her to file a report in Sarasota and they would send a unit to the location in Hernando County. The victim did not want to prosecute for the theft, only to have her phone returned.

4/11/19 Theft Location withheld A man reported that approximately nine days prior he noticed various items missing from his residence. He stated there was a delay in reporting the crime because he had been feeling ill. The victim was able to provide limited information and reported he believed he knew the suspect due to the lack of forced entry. The victim advised the suspect had recently moved out of the residence. The items missing included a gold ring ($150), computer ($540), Gold watch ($300), 4 boxes of fentanyl pads ($100), and one bottle of prescription medication ($100).

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Cosentino cases reassigned Continued from page 5

The very same day, Chief Judge Williams reassigned that case to Judge McHugh, too. Thus, McHugh is presiding over all the issues relative to the North Beach Road dispute.

On March 28 — just 10 days after Ruhl filed her first Order of Disqualification — Assistant County Attorney David M. Pearce filed a motion seeking to consolidate the Cosentino cases. He pointed out that the Charter amendments also factor into Cosentino’s lawsuit, thanks to third-party action by intervenors in that case.

Moreover, Pearce wrote, in both cases, Cosentino and the nonprofit corporation Cosentino founded in June 2016 — Reopen Beach Road — “seek to defend the same charter amendments because Cosentino and Reopen Beach Road mounted the petition drive that placed both amendments on the November 2018 ballot.”

The Caflisches did not object to his motion, Pearce pointed out, and Cosentino’s attorney neither had objected nor agreed with the motion, as of his filing.

The issue was to be part of a case management hearing that was scheduled for April 1, Pearce noted.

However, court records show that Ruhl did not hear any arguments on the consolidation issue on April 1, having recused herself from the case.

Cosentino’s attorney gets extension for appeal brief With Circuit Judge Frederick P. Mercurio last year having dismissed the last part of Siesta resident Mike Cosentino’s lawsuit against Sarasota County over the vacation of a segment of North Beach Road, Cosentino appealed the decision to the Second District Court of Appeal in Lakeland.

When SNL checked on the status of that case, it learned that Cosentino’s attorney, Lee R. Rohe of Big Pine Key, did file his initial brief on March 4. Assistant County Attorney David M. Pearce filed an answer for the county on March 25. Then, on April 9, Rohe filed a motion for extension of time to file a reply to the county’s brief. The court granted that on April 10, giving Rohe until May 23.

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MONTHLY MEETING Thursday, May 2 • 4:30 PM

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Siesta homeowners on Tenacity Lane win After-the-Fact Coastal Setback Variance for paver patio constructed without county Rachel Brown Hackney authorization By SarasotaNewsLeader.com Having learned that a consultant they hired never applied for the necessary Sarasota County authorization before they constructed a paver patio last year, the owners of the 220 Tenacity Lane parcel on Siesta Key had to seek an After-the-Fact Coastal Setback Variance from the County Commission.

Only one neighbor objected to their petition during an April 10 public hearing. (Six others supported it by submitting letters to the county, according to testimony.) And, based on statements by the attorney for the owners of 220 Tenacity Lane, a flooding problem the opposing neighbor has attributed to the design of their new patio actually is a result of the neighbor having no gutters on the affected side of his house.

No commissioner offered a comment before Commissioner Alan Maio made the motion

to approve the variance. After Commissioner Christian Ziegler seconded Maio’s motion, it passed unanimously.

The motion also formally approved a 1,970-square-foot porous paver driveway on the front of the house.

William Merrill III of the Icard Merrill firm in Sarasota, the attorney for Mark and Tracey Hennessy — the owners of 220 Tenacity Lane — explained to the commissioners that research indicated county staff approved the driveway before the previous owners of the property constructed it in 1999. However, because no documentation could be found to support that, Merrill continued, the Hennessys wanted to ensure they had formal approval of that construction, as well.

Howard Berna, manager of the county’s Environmental Permitting Division, noted that when the County Commission approved

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the Coastal Setback Variance for that paver driveway, the board stipulated that either crushed shell or porous material be used.

In explaining what he characterized as the “unusual circumstances” behind the need for the April 10 hearing, Merrill said that the Hennessys “hired a professional consultant and relied upon him to properly obtain all the necessary permits and approvals, to their detriment.”

The consultant had indicated his familiarity “with the requirements” for coastal construction, Merrill, added.

The consultant did apply for a permit from the Florida Department of Environmental Protection (FDEP) for the work, Merrill noted; it was granted on April 23, 2018.

The staff memo provided to the commissioners in advance of the hearing said that on June 8, 2018, county staff learned of the paver patio on the Gulf side of the house. All of the work had been completed seaward of the Gulf Beach Setback Line (GBSL), whose establishment was designed to prevent storm surge damage to structures landward of the line.

Berna told the board on April 10 that the entire parcel at 220 Tenacity Lane is located seaward of the GBSL. He added that the county’s Coastal Setback Code was not enacted until 1979.

When county staff informed the Hennessys that their patio project required a permit, Merrill said, “They immediately ceased construction” and began the process to try to obtain the After-the-Fact Coastal Setback Variance.

The new patio is a maximum of

190.5 feet seaward of the GBSL, Berna told the board, and it is approximately 728 feet landward of the Mean High Water Line, “given the accreting nature of the beach.”

During his presentation, Merrill reported that the patio actually is approximately 857 feet landward of the Mean High Water Line, though it is 728 feet landward of the open beach. Referring to the photos Berna had shown the board, Merrill told the commissioners, “You can see how large the beach is in front of the property.”

Merrill also pointed out that the patio is 20 feet further landward than the construction line that corresponds to the location of the house immediately to the north.

Merrill further pointed out that “packed river rock” covered an even larger area seaward of the 220 Tenacity Lane house before the Hennessys began building the new patio.

Merrill stressed to the commissioners, “The improvements have no impacts on the coastal system, as the staff report indicated.” Furthermore, he said, “There’s no new habitable spaces…

No enclosures; no enclosed nonhabitable spaces.”

Countering the complaint During the public hearing, Brian D. Keisacker, an attorney with Ulrich, Scarlett, Wickman & Dean in Sarasota, told the commissioners he was representing the owner of the house at 218 Tenacity Lane, to the north of the Hennessys’ property.

That owner, Brett Moore, has had to contend with runoff from the patio affecting his yard, Keisacker said. All the other homes on

Tenacity Lane are built on grade, Keisacker pointed out, but the house at 220 Tenacity Lane was elevated 2 to 3 feet, and water runs downhill, of course.

In a letter he sent county staff in advance of the public hearing, Keisacker wrote that the house at 220 Tenacity Lane is “much higher than the properties surrounding it… This creates an issue with water runoff for the neighbors and specifically Mr. Moore. This is especially problematic as Mr. Moore’s home is constructed atop wooden pilings. Since purchasing the home in 1994, Mr. Moore has had to make expensive repairs costing over $70,000 to replace pilings underneath of his home,” the letter continued. “The only pilings which have required replacement are those on the side of the home adjacent to 220 Tenacity Lane.”

During rebuttal, Merrill provided photos to illustrate that the paver patio is tilted away from Moore’s property, to prevent runoff from flowing into Moore’s yard.

Additionally, Merrill showed water pouring down the north side of Moore’s house from a scupper mounted near the roofline. Merrill believes the other side of the 218 Tenacity Lane house has gutters, he added. “This side doesn’t.”

Merrill also read from the summary of a signed and certified letter written by the engineer who was a consultant to the Hennessys for the hearing: “The runoff to the northern property likely has been reduced through the construction of the paver deck, which directs runoff away from the northern lot line swale.”

Off Key

941.349.0194

MAY 2019

By Robert Frederickson

Girls Just Wanna have Sun? That explanation is probably as good as any for the three young women who were the subject of a 9-1-1 call from a traveler at an I-75 rest stop in Pasco county on a recent spring day after he observed Oasis McCleod, 19, Jeniyah McCleod, 19, and Cecilia Young, 18, bereft of any and all clothing, applying sun tan lotion in plain view of all using the crowded facility, children included.

When FHP officers approached the women they said they were “air-drying” after washing-up in the rest room. Perhaps the hot-air hand dryers inside weren’t up to the task? Or maybe they were headed to North Lido Beach and just wanted to get a jump on their ‘au natural’ sun bathing?

They did seem to be in a bit of a hurry though, fleeing the rest stop before officers had completed their questioning, which, of course, is not an advisable strategy when dealing with peace officers, as the ensuing events bear out. The jilted officers gave chase, using a controlled impact maneuver to spinout the fleeing vehicle.

Whereupon in two final examples of errant judgment Oasis McCleod allegedly drove the car at one officer while Jeniyah McCleod allegedly attacked another officer with a metal baseball bat.

All three now face charges of indecent exposure, fleeing to elude, resisting arrest and aggravated assault of a law enforcement officer.

So how was your Spring Break?

“I can’t even explain why they did what they did,” said a clearly exasperated Cecil Young, father of Cecelia Young, expressing a sentiment likely to elicit sympathy from any parent of teenagers.

Paradise Lost?

So Sarasota has once again made one of those “Best Places to Live” lists chamber of commerce types live for, this one from US News & World Report. The city came in at number 18 on the magazine’s 2019 list.

Heady stuff.

But as Jerry Garcia sang, “every silver lining has a touch of grey.” That line came to mind as I read the Sarasota Herald Tribune headline “REPORT: SARASOTA IS THE DUI CAPITAL OF FLORIDA.” Yikes!

And as if on cue, in a span of mere days came news of three alcohol related

Island Chatter

19

From Girls on the Run to a Final ‘Well-Done’

fatalities on area roads. One involved 13 teenagers piled into an SUV that failed to negotiate a turn in an undeveloped subdivision in North Port, killing one teen. Another resulted in the death of an elderly couple when their vehicle was rear-ended on US 41 near River Road by an impaired driver. And in a third recent crash, 63-year-old Petruska Marquez was killed on I-75 near Clark Road when the car she was riding in struck the stopped vehicle of Nicalos Simpson, 26, of North Port. Simpson’s car was stopped in the middle lane of the interstate at 2:05 AM on April 14th. He was charged with DUI manslaughter.

Writers and poets have detailed since time immemorial, the price of paradise... and the perils of pride. So beware the list!

And perhaps good news as well. Jerry had it right in another line from Uncle John’s Band: “When life looks like easy street, there is danger at your door...”

NYC Offers New Career Path: Climate Vigilante!

New York City has a new way to earn some extra cash. Just wander the streets and whenever you see a truck idling while parked, pull out your smart phone, shoot a video documenting the license plate and showing the vehicle idling continuously for at least three minutes, forward your file to the city’s Department of Environmental Protection and you’ll earn 25 percent of any fines assessed for a violation. Fines run anywhere from $300 to $2000 One guy interviewed by Fox News claims to have pocketed over nine grand for his 120 reports since the program went into effect last fall.

And just think of all the friends he’s made along the way...

Best Day to Buy Gas? Mondays. This according to Internet app Gas Buddy. Apparently some stations (most?) hike prices later in the week just in time for heavier weekend travel. Another benefit to buying early in the week? Lines are usually shorter meaning you’re more likely to find an open pump without having to wait.

Island Visitor Publishing, LLC

A Case of Homesickness?

Michael Casey Lewis, 34 had just been

released from the Saint Lucie County jail in Fort Pierce when an officer noticed him acting suspiciously in the jail’s parking lot.

When confronted, he said he was just waiting for his girlfriend to pick him up. But when surveillance video was reviewed, Lewis could be seen checking doors to find unlocked vehicles. He eventually found one where he allegedly ‘found’ an iPhone, a debit card, four packs of cigarettes and over $500 in cash.

He was promptly booked back into the same jail he had just left mere minutes earlier, and later released again after posting an $11,250 bond. And this time he actually left the area. But I’m thinking it’s a pretty fair bet he’ll be back.

Better Late than Never?

Conventional wisdom holds that if you’re traveling by air, taking an early morning flight offers the best shot at an on-time arrival. Well, it didn’t work out that way for those on one recent British Airways flight. Passengers on flight BA3271 thought they were heading from London to Dusseldorf, Germany on March 25th. So imagine their surprise when they de-planed and discovered they were actually in Edinburgh, Scotland.

Oops...

Turns out a ground staffer had punched in the wrong airport code for the flight plan and the pilots simply assumed Scotland was where British Airways wanted them to go. After a few hours things were sorted out and the passengers were on their way to their original destination, half a day late, but none the worse for wear.

A Tale of Two Borders While planning a trip to attend a relative’s funeral in Western New York, we briefly considered flying in to Toronto and seeing the sights and maybe a ballgame or two before crossing the rainbow bridge to pay our respects to a favorite Aunt in Rochester, NY. Both my wife and I had worked for the parent company of the Toronto Sun for almost 20 years and had enjoyed visiting the city.

But those plans went by the wayside when I realized our passports had expired and there wasn’t enough time to renew them prior to our departure. Oh well, we thought, maybe we can at least take a side trip tor Niagara Falls.

My wife has lived in Florida since she was ten and so had never been to the falls.

I did a little research to see if we could at least cross over to the Ontario side for a brief look at the falls, as the view is generally more expansive from that side.

Well, I soon learned that was a no go: According to the official US GOV site, “You must have a valid passport to enter the United States at the Canadian border.”

NO EXCEPTIONS. And the news was much the same from the Canadian side, with this added warning: “If you have been charged with a DUI or convicted of a minor offense, you may be denied entry to Canada.”

Neither of us fit into either of those categories, thankfully, but I find the warning and the absolute necessity of a current passport an interesting counterpoint to what’s been going on along the southern border, where hundreds of thousands of non US citizens have entered the country with seeming impunity over the past year.

Jackie LeClaire Leaves Legacy of Mirth Sarasota lost a true original recently with the passing of Jackie LeClaire last month at the age of 91. His entire life was intertwined with the circus and the towns of Sarasota and Venice the circus helped put on the map.

He first performed as a child as part of his parent’s clown act, remaining active in the circus arts almost till the end. In later years he could be seen at the big top of Circus Sarasota, which released a statement by founders Pedro Reis and Dolly Jacobs. “(LeClaire) was a one-of-a-kind person, definitely with sawdust in his veins. He was a storyteller and the story of his life on the circus was larger than life and very colorful. (His) humor and warmth affected everyone who was lucky enough to come into contact with him. He was an integral part of our circus family and we will miss him.”

He was considered the unofficial mayor of Bay Village across the bay from Siesta Key, where he made his home and where he regularly delighted the grandchildren of residents when they would come visit their grandparents.

Continued from page 16

Little Sarasota Bay in better health than it may appear

Sgt. Paul Cernansky, leader of the Sheriff’s Office substation on Siesta was contacted. Cernansky was aware of the boat in the pass, but he said he During the April SKA meeting, guest speaker Mark Alderson, believed the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation executive director of the Sarasota Bay Estuary Program, took a question about the health of Little Sarasota Bay. (See the related story in this issue.)

“It looks like that body of water is dead,” a man in the audience told Alderson.

Relatively low nitrogen concentrations are found in Sarasota Bay, Alderson said, “but they are slightly elevated in Little Sarasota Bay overall.”

(Nitrogen is the most significant fuel for red tide blooms, scientists have explained.)

Still, if one compared the nitrogen figures for Little Sarasota Bay to those of the Indian River Lagoon, Alderson pointed out, “We’re light years ahead of that. But we can do better, and that’s what we’re trying to do.”

The Indian River Lagoon, he noted, was one of the primary water bodies affected by the “massive green slime” produced by the freshwater blue-green algae that again plagued East Coast waters last summer.

Alderson also told the audience member that even though Little Sarasota Bay “may look dead, we do have some of the highest juvenile fish counts in Little Sarasota Bay.” That body of water was somewhat protected from the red tide bloom, he added.

The northern part of Sarasota Bay, Alderson continued, “was totally decimated,” especially the areas around Longboat Key, Cortez, along with lower Tampa Bay. Studies undertaken by the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC) suggest that it will take 12 to 18 months “for the fishery to recover” in the northern part of Sarasota Bay, Alderson said.

A boating tale In early March, Michael Shay reported that a boat appeared to be aground on the sand bar in Big Pass. He first spotted it on the morning of March 9, he added.

A couple of days later, it appeared to be listing, he pointed out. He was concerned that it was taking on water.

Commission (FWC) would be handling the case.

If not, then he suggested the boat might be in the Sarasota Police Department’s jurisdiction.

Continued on page 22

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20

Siesta Sand

MAY 2019

Going native

941.349.0194

By Bob Stein

Siesta Key Village truly has an eclectic collection of buildings. Some have remained unchanged since the day they were built, while others have received new facades. Another growing number of businesses have gone native by enhancing their buildings with chickees, giving the Village a tropical ambience. But it’s not just the Village that’s sporting these tropical add-ons, the trend has spread throughout the island.

Not only do these thatched roofs inspire that true

island feel, they’re functional, allowing air to pass underneath and through for a cool retreat from the sun. Coupled with ideal weather and its laid back attitude, this chickee trend is adding to the island’s charm while providing visitors with an appealing option from the elements.

After a day on the beach, doesn’t a nice cold brew enjoyed beneath one of these inviting shelters sound like paradise?

You could say The Old Salty Dog, located in the Village was the catalyst to the chickee craze. They erected their chickee well over four years ago

The Cottage was the next business to add this distinct feature, welcoming visitors to their island retreat.

The latest business to add a chickee in the Village is Siesta Beach Resort & Suites. Owner, Mike Holderness, added the chickee, which measures just under 30 feet and built with Everglade cypress by Seminole Indians

Just south of Stickney Point Road, Captain Curt’s Village, erected two chickee huts.

The Sniki Tiki, is a favorite locals’ hangout for an ice cold beer, great food and live entertainment

RUM CAKES RULE!

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Did you know?

Chickee is the word Seminole Indians used for house. By employing Seminole and/or Miccosuke tribes to construct the chickees, Florida building regulations are bypassed.

In the 1990s the federal government signed a treaty with Native American Indian tribes allowing them to build their traditional chickee/tiki huts, without first acquiring local building permits.

The move was designed as part of reparations afforded Indian tribes mistreated by the nation and settlers in the 1800s.

Gilligan’s Island Bar and Siesta Key Oyster Bar (SKOB) decided to continue what some think is becoming a traditional Siesta Key Island look where patrons can savor the island spirit

Their second chickee hut houses a new coffee shop

Further down the road heading south, Turtles Beach Grill added one as well, back in 2015, after the new owners acquired the restaurant

Continued from cover story

Pretty soon these delicious treats also appeared at Crescent Market, Siesta Spirits, Old Salty Dog, Gecko’s, Anna Maria Oyster Bar, and dozens of other outlets and restaurants.

Tanja expanded her vision. She developed a range of 65+ liquor cakes featuring whiskey and bourbon as well as rum. These cakes soon became a featured attraction at tailgate parties. Musicians like Big Machine, John Ridge, and Bruno Mars became interested in having their own brands available at concerts. Booze cakes took off!

This is a family business. Tanja’s husband, Manuel Hofmann, and her son, Robin Hofmann, are all very much involved. They work together at A Taste of Germany Cafe and Bakery, currently located at 6575 Midnight Pass Rd, Siesta Key until their move, and now will be marketing cakes and shipping them worldwide.

Some favorite cake-flavors are: Siesta Key Coconut Rum; SelvaRey Cacao Rum with Chocolate (owned by the singer, Bruno Mars); Brandy Oreo Cookie; Old Camp Peach Pecan Whiskey with Pecans (owned by the country band, Florida Georgia Line); and Lemon Vodka. All are currently available today at A Taste of Germany Café and Bakery.

The Hofmann’s regularly display their delicious bakery at events such as: The Ft. Lauderdale Medieval Fair; The Renaissance Festival in Deerfield Beach; the Brevard Renaissance Fair in Melbourne; The Seafood & Music Festival in Ft. Meyers; and The Sarasota New Year’s Eve Pineapple Drop, to name but a few. They also create cakes for special events such as weddings.

The family has come to realize they need to leave their Siesta Key café behind and pay attention to this burgeoning cake empire. They will be moving to their new location in June, where they will make and bake their delicious offerings, ship worldwide, and operate a storefront. They also accept online orders through their website: atasteofgermanysiesta.com.

The new facility will be located at 6606 26th Court East, Sarasota, 34243 – about ten minutes down the road from Siesta Key Rum. The new facility will also be called A Taste of Germany.

After eight years on the Key, we are sad to see the closing of A Taste of Germany Café and Bakery but we wish the Hofmann’s well on their fabulous new adventure!

Carmel Vodka

Siesta Key Coconut Rum

Blueberry Rum

Redneck Rivera Whiskey

Old Camp Peach Pecan Whiskey

www.siestasand.net

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MAY 2019

LIVE MUSIC PAGE 26

VILLAGE MAP pgs 22 - 23

ACCOMMODATIONS PAGE 43

CRESCENT BEACH MAP pg 24

Island Visitor Publishing, LLC

GULF GATE SHOPS pg 28 - 29

Siesta Key Drum Circle 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 by Meredith Audet as shared in Siesta Key Drum Circle Facebook page.

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21

22

Siesta Sand

MAY 2019

Island Chatter

941.349.0194

www.siestasand.net

Crystal

Continued from page 19

When Melody Kilborn, public information coordinator for FWC’s Southwest Region Office, was contacted she said in a March 14 telephone interview, “We’re not currently working it as a derelict vessel.”

The boat finally disappeared on the afternoon of March 15, but SNL had to wait a couple of days — because of coverage of County Commission meetings — before it could try to follow up with Genevieve Judge, communications coordinator for the Sarasota Police Department.

When Judge was first reached late that week, she was unable to reach anyone with the Police Department’s Marine Patrol. However, she promised to get back to us early the following week.

On March 18, Judge sent an email, saying that she had learned from the department’s Marine Patrol that the Sheriff’s Office’s Marine Patrol and FWC were handling the case. She did add that she understood the boat had been towed to the 10th Street Boat Ramp

by Sea Tow of Sarasota.

Then we contacted Kaitlyn R. Perez, the community affairs director for the Sheriff’s Office, she wrote in a March 19 email, “What we learned from our Special Ops Bureau (through Mike Solum at the county) … is that FWC worked this.”

Solum, she pointed out, is the county employee in charge of the waterways.

Perez continued, “Sea Tow took the boat to the 10th St. boat ramp. The owner has been in contact with FWC. They are in the process of having the title signed over to either FWC or Sea Tow,” she added.

“We have nothing to do with this case so we will defer to FWC and hopefully they can give you some more guidance,” Perez wrote.

On April 2, Kilborn wrote in an email, “It appears that this particular vessel was handled by Sarasota County’s boating and waterways section and the FWC was not the lead at any point regarding its removal. It is our understanding that this vessel has been removed from the water,” she added, suggesting we “reach out to Sarasota County to confirm and receive additional details, as I do not have any. I do not have any information regarding the vessel’s owner or the reason the vessel got there in the first place.”

Finally, on April 3, SNL spoke by phone with Elas Wallace, operations manager of Sea Tow in Sarasota.

“This was kind of a headache,” he said. Wallace was unable to share much information, though he did say that the woman who owned the boat “was a character.”

She apparently was moving the vessel from one location to another when she and a man with her had a disagreement, Wallace continued. “I’m not really

sure about the circumstances,” he pointed out, but he did add that he understood “video had surfaced on Facebook.”

“It’s a crazy scenario,” he said.

He also understood, he continued, that the boat had been in Venice and that the owner was heading back to Madeira Beach, in Pinellas County, when the incident occurred.

“We did remove the boat from the sandbar in Big Pass,” said Wallace. He had no further information about what had transpired since then, he pointed out.

However, Wallace did say, “Florida should really require people who have boats to have insurance,” just as people who own vehicles must have insurance.

Wallace also explained that Sea Tow’s operations in cases involving derelict vessels are funded by the state.

As the business name indicates, Wallace added, “Towing is what we do for a living.” However, Sea Tow is a membership-based company, he pointed out.

Sea Tow of Sarasota handles cases from Casey Key all the way up to the Sunshine Skyway Bridge, he said. “We try to take care of the community.”

Map D #11

ACCOMMODATIONS Siesta Key Beach Resort & Spa.......... Map-A #38A ART GALLERY / STUDIO The Gallery on Siesta Key............. Map-D #11 ATM / BANKS Martin Funding................................. Map-E #1 PNC ATM.........................................Map-C #61 Sun Trust Bank & ATM.................... Map-E #4 BARS & NIGHTCLUBS Blaśe Café....................................... Map-A #38 Daiquiri Deck Raw Bar........... Map-B #42-43 Gilligan’s.........................................Map-B #33 My Village Pub......................... Map-C #53/54 Siesta Key Oyster Bar....................Map-B #45 The Beach Club............................... Map-D #22 The Cottage......................................Map-C #58 The Hub-Baja Grill......................... Map-D #59

Map B #42

COFFEE SHOPS LeLu’s Coffee Lounge...................Map-B #31 The Local Bean............................... Map-D #62 DRUGSTORE Davidson Drugs............................ Map-D #65 FASHION & ACCESSORIES Beach Bazaar’s & Swin Shack..... Map-C #28 Blvd. Beachwear.............................. Map-B #30 Comfort Shoes-Birki & More..... Map-D #64 Everything But Water.................... Map-D #12 Foxy Lady Fashions....................... Map-A #40 Gidget’s Coastal Provisions.........Map-B #44 Island Boutique............................... Map-B #50 Island Style.......................................Map-C #53 Marley Vibes..................................... Map-D #9 Sea Shanty........................................Map-C #24 Siesta T’s........................................... Map-B #30 Swell Things.................................... Map-D #66 The Sandal Factory......................... Map-B #46 GAS STATION Circle K Store..................................... Map-E #6 GIFTS & SOUVENIRS Beach Bazaar.................................. Map-C #28 Gilligan’s Gift Store........................ Map-B #32 Island Trader....................................Map-C #51 Sea Pleasures & Treasures.............Map-C #29 Siesta Key Outfitters..................... Map-D #11 Siesta Kids........................................ Map-B #36

THE LOCAL BEAN • Internet Café • Coffee Shop • Tea Room 5138 Ocean Blvd., Siesta Key Village

941-346-8000

WHAT BETTER WAY TO START YOUR DAY IN PARADISE?

Map D #62

Organic and Fair Trade Coffees & Teas Cold Pressed Coffee Organic Smoothies Light Lunch (Salads & Sandwiches) Breakfast Sandwiches, Bagels & Lox Local Pastries Free Snacks

HEALTH & FITNESS Indep. Lifestyle Solutions ............ Map-D #10 Siesta Healing................................... Map-D #9 Siesta Key Fitness..........................Map-B #73 ICE CREAM/TREATS Big Olaf Creamery..........................Map-C #52 Curly Cream Ice Cream................... Map-D #9 Local Chill Ice Cream.................... Map-D #60 Made in Rome Gelato.....................Map-C #53 Meany’s Mini Donuts.....................Map-C #24 Stefano Versace Gelato...................Map-C #50 SubZero Ice Cream/Yogurt.......... Map-D #16 INTERNET / WiFi SERVICES Davidson Drugs............................ Map-D #65 LeLu’s Coffee Lounge...................Map-B #31 The Local Bean............................... Map-D #62 JEWELRY Created Gems..................................Map-C #51 Mount -N- Repair Jewelers............. Map-D #9 LIQUOR STORES / FINE WINES Gabbiano’s Wine Club................. Map-D #70 Gilligan’s.........................................Map-B #33 Siesta Key Wine Bar........................Map-C #61 Siesta Village Liquors.................. Map-C #26 The Beach Club............................... Map-D #22

Attendance for Sand Sculpting F attendees, organi That uptick cam in their news re experienced.”

After red tide b Mexico a muddy Business owner customers and co The national att obviously did no masterpieces.

“Based on data of out-of-county estimated at $10,5 Other data rece • 37% of atten generating more • 41% of atten Florida residents out of state and 6 • 98% of attend expectations, “sta the news release Siesta architect

www.siestasand.net

941.349.0194

MAY 2019

l Classic 2018 a smashing success

r the 2018 Siesta Key Crystal Classic International Festival was up almost 10% from 2017, with 65,225 izers have announced. me in spite of what the organizers characterized elease as “the red tide challenges the area had

began killing tons of fish and turning the Gulf of y rust color, tourism took a tumble on the Key. rs reported significant drops in the number of ondominium rentals. tention to the problems in the late summer of 2018 ot deter fans of the intricate and whimsical sand

a research and surveys, the total economic impact visitors to the 2018 Siesta Key Crystal Classic was 500,000,” the news release emphasized. eived worth noting follows: ndees overnighted in hotels or condominiums, than 19,000 room nights for the area. ndees were Sarasota County residents, 17% were s from outside of Sarasota County, 36% were from 6% were from other countries. dees reported that the festival met or exceeded their ating that this year’s event was most impressive,” pointed out. t Mark Smith, a long-time member of the Board of

23

Island Visitor Publishing, LLC

By Rachel Brown Hackney SarasotaNewsLeader.com

Directors of the Siesta Key Chamber of Commerce, told attendees at the Chamber’s quarterly membership meeting that he knew attendance was up for the 2018 event. “I was in charge of the cash collection, and the cash collection was up.”

The Siesta Key Crystal Classic is owned by Siesta Beach Festival Inc., a 501(c)(3) nonprofit corporation. “The event is produced by the Siesta Key Chamber of Commerce to promote tourism, local businesses, and both ephemeral and visual arts through a collaborative partnership with the community,” the release explained.

Based on a review of county records, the festival has been receiving grant funds since the 2016 fiscal year from the Sarasota County Commission, through the Arts & Cultural Alliance of Sarasota County. Organizations applying for the funding have to demonstrate their ability to bring visitors to the community. The grant for the current fiscal year, which began Oct. 1, 2018, was for $31,676. The Crystal Classic was among 39 events or programs that won funding.

That grant money was used for the 2018 festival.

The description provided and presented to the County Commission as part of the materials for its June 13, 2018 meeting, read as follows: “Over the course of approximately 4 days, 8 teams of two master sand sculptors and 8 solo masters, who hail from several countries, create [8- to 10-feet high, three-dimensional] sand sculptures created solely out of the whitest, finest sand in the world and water. Collectively, they compete for $15,000 in prize money and an award at this masters sand sculpting venue held on the #1 beach. The artwork is displayed at night under colored lights as well,” the description noted. The

lights highlight the sculptures in a unique way, it pointed out.

During the festival, the description added, more than 65 retail, art and food vendors have booths in what is called the Vendor Village on the beach. Additionally, the event features speed sculpting competitions between the sculptors and an educational element, which features sand samples from around the world. This year’s event will take place November 15-18, 2019.

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MAILING - SHIPPING US Post Office................................. Map-D #65 MARKETS/FOOD STORES Circle K Store..................................... Map-E #6 Morton’s Siesta Market................ Map-C #25

Map D #64

MASSAGE Hands of Light Massage................ Map-B #35 Massage Therapy........................... Map-D #62 The Spa at Calle Minorga............... Map-E #74 MEDICAL - DENTAL Sarasota Medical Center................ Map-D #63 Siesta Dental..................................... Map-B #49 Siesta Key Physical Therapy......... Map-D #20 Siesta Village Dentistry................. Map-D #63 MISCELLANEOUS Chamber of Commerce................. Map-D #67 Roberti Enterprises........................ Map-A #39 Tarot Card Reading & Gifts........... Map-B #50 PROFESSIONAL SERVICES Edward Jones Investments........... Map-D #68 Smith Architects.................................Map-E 74 REAL ESTATE / RENTAL SERVICES Coldwell Banker Realty................. Map-D #20 Keller Williams Real Estate........... Map-D #11 Key Realty.........................................Map-E #5 Michael Saunders Realty..............Map-E #72 ReMax Alliance Group...................Map-C #29 Tropical Sands Accommadations.... Map-D #67 RentSiestaKey.com........................... Map-D #9 Robasota Rentals & Real Estate.... Map-A #39 Siesta Key Rental Prop.................. Map-D #10

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RESTAURANTS / CAFÉS Another Broken Egg..............Map-C #54 & 55 Big Water Fish Market, N............ Map-D #15 Blasé Café....................................... Map-A #38 Bonjour French Cafe.......................Map-C #47 Café Gabbiano............................... Map-D #71 Daiquiri Deck Raw Bar........... Map-B #42-43 Flavio’s Brick Oven & Bar.............. Map-B #29 Flavio’s Italiano Ristorante............ Map-B #30 Gilligan’s Island Bar & Grill.......Map-B #33 Island House Bar & Grill............... Map-D #69 LeLu’s Coffee Bar...........................Map-B #31 Lobster Pot...................................... Map-C #23 Old Salty Dog Rest. & Pub............... Map-E #2 PI Pizza & Craft Beer..................... Map-A#37 Ripfire Pizza..................................... Map-B #47 Siesta Key Oyster Bar....................Map-B #45 Solorzano Bros. Pizzeria.............. Map-D #15 Subway Sandwiches....................... Map-B #30 Summer House................................Map-C #57 Sun Garden Café............................ Map-D #19 The Cottage......................................Map-C #58 The Hub - Baja Grill........................Map-C #59 The Star Thai Sushi............... Map-D #17 & 18 Village Café.................................... Map-D #14 SPAS - HAIR & BEAUTY LaPlaya Spa......................................Map-C #50 Sassy Hair Salon............................ Map-A #40 Siesta Key Nails & Spa.................. Map-D #9 Shaman Sanctuary Salon................. Map-D #9 SPORTS INTEREST/RENTALS CaliFlorida........................................Map-C #29 Robin Hood Rentals......................Map-B #34

Barber Scott Reich

Formerly of the Village Barber

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

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

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

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

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

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Siesta Sand

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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 Drugs..................................... C-3 #14 FASHION & ACCESSORIES Fin Island Co............................................. 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 Things You Like...................................... C-3 #14

941.349.0194

CRESCENT BEACH SHOP INDEX

GIFTS & SOUVENIRS Capt. Curt’s Souvenirs.............................B-3 #8 Green Turtle Shells & Gifts................. C-3 #14 Sunshine Sand Hidden Treasures........ D-3 #17 Silver City Jewelry.................................. C-3 #14 HEALTH & BEAUTY Sanctuary Siesta Key............................... A-5 #12 Siesta Key Salon & Spa........................... D-3 #17 The Key Spa & Salon.............................. A-5 #12 ICE CREAM & TREATS Orange Octopus .......................................B-3 #8 INTERNET / WiFi SERVICES Davidson 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 Beckmann Properties.............................. C-2 #15 Homes & Condo Rentals........................ D-3 #17 Re/Max Tropical Sands............................B-3 #1 Siesta 4-Rent............................................ C-3 #14 Waterside Realty..................................... C-3 #17 RESTAURANTS / CAFES A Taste of Germany................................ C-3#14

www.siestasand.net

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

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

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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

Toasted Mango Cafe 6621 Midnight Pass Rd.

MAP C-4 #17

MAP C-3 #17

www.siestasand.net

941.349.0194

MAY 2019

Snapshots of Island Visitors

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Photos by Jaye Clements - Sarasota Photography 2

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Island Visitor Publishing, LLC

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1. Jack age 2, Lucy, and Isabella age 5 from England 2. Ariana age 10, Tony, and Jaelyn age 11 from Virginia 3. Nicole & Tom from NY 4. Elizabeth, Emilie age 5, Mathias age 2, and Anna from Norway 5. Chris & Tiffany from Tampa 6. Kate age 5, Ryan, Graham age 3, Drake age 1, and Kim 7. Sigrid & Otto from Sarasota 8. Michelle, Evan, Hoytt age 6, Maylynn age 2, and Hiram age 3 from IN 9. Rue, Deanna, Kennedy age 13, & Drake age 16 from IL 10. Ryan, Luke age 1, Leah, Alivia age 7, & McKenzie age 3, from MI

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MAY 2019

Siesta Sounds

941.349.0194

By Charmaine Engelsman-Robins

Tropical Avenue Band

taken of their audiences during the gigs.

Whether audience members are listening, dancing, or up on stage with the group to join in on selected songs (bongo solo, anyone?), it’s pretty obvious that that silly saying “a splendid time is guaranteed for all” is spot-on in this situation.

A big contributing factor of Tropical Avenue’s endless energy may lie in the fact that in addition to Jeff’s vocals, Jessica Pignotti contributes her versatile voice as female lead singer, while Jon Cuna (who also plays Spanish guitar and keyboards) adds male lead vocals. Add rhythm section Mark Matson on drums and founding member Rhonda Brown-Hughes’ solid bass, and you have the makings of a great dance band that’s unlikely to run out of steam before the dancers do.

Together since 2007, Tropical Avenue has built a solid fan base and continues to earn new followers with every gig. Their friends-fans are varied because of the bands versatility. In addition to wowing club goers with Latin and Top 40 dance music, they are favorites for corporate parties, charitable events, festivals and celebrations, weddings, and of course any bachelorette gatherings.

Jeff laughs that their on stage fan participation got a little crowded at the Beach Club in midApril when members of not one but TWO bachelorette parties all piled on to “help” the band! (Can’t wait to see those pics!)

If you’ve not yet heard Tropical Avenue you can check them out online, either on their band site, YouTube, or Facebook. The videos give a you a bit of the feeling they bring to a room and the people in it. From Bruno Mars and Mark Ronson’s Uptown Funk through Aretha’s Chain of Fools and AC/DCs You Shook Me All Night Long… well, you can get a real good idea of what you’ll be rockin’ to at the Beach Club on Friday, May 10th in Siesta Village.

And while you’re there, remember to smile for their camera!

When did all this start?

Was it when the hugely successful Miami Vice TV show spent a decade making everyone who got hooked on it wish they lived in south Florida? Or was it just the opposite; was that show a reflection of this movement? Well, whatever happened, all of a sudden … from the shoes to the shades to the suits to the sound… South Beach was hot, hot, hot with its unmistakable signature sound of energetic dance and Latin music and la vida loca spirit.

Maybe it’s just the tropical allure, but once discovered, that pumping sound was here to stay and has continued to grow in popularity ever since, spreading all over South Florida, filling the clubs and energizing dancers up and down both Florida coasts.

One band that’s always had a handle on it is Tropical Avenue, a group of five multitalented folks who can keep an entire room on its feet… or even a whole beach; you have probably enjoyed them at least once at the great Siesta Key Sand Sculpture extravaganza that is a favorite of locals and visitors alike, from bouncing toddlers to polished senior salsa dancers. They have become a fixture of this celebration, one of Siesta Key’s biggest and best. But between festivals, you can occasionally catch them at one of the clubs where they perform; their lead vocalist, guitarist, and trumpet player, Jeff Hughes, enthuses that the Key’s Beach Club (on the main drag in the heart of the Village) is without question one of their favorite venues to play.

“We feel that the Beach Club is absolutely the best dance club in all of Sarasota,” Jeff says, speaking for the band. “The staff is superb, the crowd is the best … it’s just so much fun every time we play there, we feel like we’re partying with friends instead of playing for fans.“ Which isn’t too hard to understand once you go to the band’s site and check out even a few of the estimated 75,000 pictures they’ve

CLUB BLASE CAFÉ In the Village 941-349-9822 DAIQUIRI DECK RAW BAR In the Village 941‐349‐8697

www.siestasand.net

MONDAY

Amandah Jantzen 7‐10 PM

TUESDAY Evan Eastmoore (7,14,21) th Dana Lawrence (28 ) 7‐10 PM

WEDNESDAY

THURSDAY

FRIDAY

SATURDAY

nd

Sandi Grecco (1,15,29) Savanah Brady (8,22 ) 7‐10 PM

Rob Viola (2 ) th Tbone Trio (9 ) th Zack Yoder (16 ) Nick LeValley (23 & 30) 7‐10 PM

th

Callie & The Whole Band 7‐10 PM

Lady B & the Buzz (4 ) th Nexx Level (11 ) th Paul Duffy (18 ) th Goodbyeddie (25 ) 7‐10 PM

LIVE MUSIC (3‐7 PM) DJ TJ (10 PM)

LIVE MUSIC (3‐7 PM) DJ K Conn (10 PM)

1 PM LIVE MUSIC 6‐10 PM LIVE MUSIC DJ KConn – 10 PM

1 PM LIVE MUSIC 6‐10 PM LIVE MUSIC DJ KConn – 10 PM

SUNDAY 2 ‐ 5 PM: Jason Haram th Band (5 Only) 7‐10 PM: th Kat Crosby Band (5 ) th Bird Tribe (12 ) th Shift Change Band (19 ) th Tbone Trio (26 ) BREE (3‐7 PM)

GILLIGANS In the Village 941-346-8122

Rodney Shenk: 6‐10 PM

RPM LIVE: 6‐10 PM

RPM LIVE ‐ 6‐10 PM DJ Nate – 10 PM

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

6‐10 PM Mike Tozier (1,15,29) Deven Starr (8 & 22) DJ LIRA – 10 PM

Eddie James Jazz Band 7‐10 PM

SIESTA KEY OYSTER BAR (SKOB) In the Village 941‐346‐5443

1‐5 PM: th Brek Milo (5 ) th Jon Dastiani (13 ) th Frankie Lombardi (20 ) th Vince Berardi (27 ) Al Donadi 7‐11 PM

1‐5 PM: th Frankie Ray (7 ) J. Gilton (14,28) th David Morris (9 ) st Sandi Grecco (21 ) Open mic night 7‐11 PM

1‐5 PM: st Rob Viola (1 ) Deven Starr (8 & 22) Frankie Ray (15 & 29) Kettle of Fish 7‐11 PM

1‐5 PM: Dana & Co. FolkLab 7‐11 PM

2‐6 PM Whiteleather 8‐Midnight rd Big Daddy (3 ) th Blue Mason (10 ) th Deven Starr Band (17 ) th Danny Fox Trio (24 ) st Bri Rivera Band (31 )

11 AM – 2 PM Evan Eastmoore (1 & 18) Nick Williams (11 & 25) 3‐7 PM:

Bri Rivera (4 & 18) Evan Eastmore (11, & 25) Mike Tozier 8‐Midnight

10 AM ‐ 1 PM Mike Tozier (5 & 19) Vince Colaiocco (12 & 26) 2‐6 PM: Messenger Duo (5th) Charlie Morris (12th) Danny Fox Duo(19th) Brek Milo (26th) 7 ‐11 PM: The Whole Band (5 & 19) Hatley Band (12 & 26)

rd

THE BEACH CLUB In the Village 941-349-6311 THE COTTAGE In the Village 941-312-9300 THE HUB‐BAJA GRILL In the Village 941-349-6800 BACKROOM SALOON @ CAPT. CURTS Crescent Beach Shops 941‐349‐3885 SNIKI TIKI @ CAPT CURTS Crescent Beach Shops 941‐349‐3885 Turtle Beach Grill Southern end of SK 941‐349‐2280 SAND DOLLAR POOL BAR @ Best Western Plus 6600 S. Tamiami Trl. Sarasota 941‐924‐4900 BOATYARD WATERFRONT BAR & GRILL 941‐921‐6200 1500 Stickney Pt. Rd. CASEY KEY FISH HOUSE 801 Blackburn Pt. Rd, Osprey 941‐966‐1901

Karaoke Mondays 9 PM – Midnight

DJ Coz or DJ Kensi 9 PM – 2 AM

DJ Coz & DJ Xtreme 10 PM

8‐11 PM: Sweet Spot (3 ) th Tropical Ave (10 ) th Actual Bank Robbers (17 ) th Mixed Signals (24 ) st Twinkle (31 ) Live DJ: 11 PM‐2 AM

1 PM LIVE MUSIC 6 PM LIVE MUSIC DJ Tuesday – 10 PM

8 – 11 PM th Live Music (4 ) th Stereo FM (11 ) th New Divide (18 ) th No Filter (25 ) DJ Kensi: 11 PM – 2 AM

7‐11 PM th Live Music (5 ) th Ari & The Alibis (12 ) th Live Music (19 ) th TL (26 )

Live Music 6-9 PM

Live Music 6-9 PM

Live Music 6-9 PM

Live Music 7-10 PM

Live Music 7-10 PM

Live Music 7-10 PM

Live Music 6-9 PM

Live Music Noon – 3 PM 3:30 – 6:30 PM 7-10 PM

Live Music Noon – 3 PM 3:30 – 6:30pm 7-10pm

Live Music Noon – 3 PM 3:30 – 6:30 PM 7-10 PM

Live Music Noon – 3 PM 3:30 – 6:30 PM 7-10 PM

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

Live Music 1-4 PM 4:30 – 7:30 PM 8:30 PM - midnight

Live Music Noon – 3 PM 3:30 – 6:30 PM 7-10 PM

KARAOKE 9 PM – CLOSE

KARAOKE 9 PM – CLOSE

LIVE MUSIC 6‐10 PM

LIVE MUSIC 6‐10 PM

LIVE MUSIC 6‐10 PM

LIVE MUSIC 6‐10 PM

LIVE MUSIC 5‐9 PM

LIVE MUSIC 5‐9 PM

LIVE MUSIC 5‐9 PM

LIVE MUSIC 5‐9 PM

LIVE MUSIC 6‐10 PM

LIVE MUSIC 6‐10 PM

LIVE MUSIC 6‐10 PM

Mike T or Kevin Thompson 5‐9 PM

KARAOKE 9 PM – CLOSE

LIVE MUSIC 3‐6 PM

LIVE MUSIC 3‐6 PM

LIVE MUSIC 3‐6 PM

Dami Caines or John Patti 5‐8:30 PM

RPM 5‐9 PM

Bri Rivera 5‐9 PM

Vince Barardi 5‐9 PM

Jokers Duo or Frankie Lombardi 5‐9 PM

Desi Adams 4‐8 PM

LIVE MUSIC 4‐8 PM

LIVE MUSIC 3‐7 PM

LIVE MUSIC 3‐7 PM

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

www.siestasand.net

941.349.0194

MAY 2019

Island Humor A very distinguished lady was on a plane arriving from Switzerland. She found herself seated next to a nice priest whom she asked: “Excuse me Father, could I ask a favor?” “Of course my child, what can I do for you?”

“Here is the problem, I bought myself a new sophisticated hair remover gadget for which I paid an enormous sum of money. I have really gone over the declaration limits and I am worried that they will confiscate it at customs. Do you think you could hide it under your cassock?” “Of course I could, my child, but you must realize that I cannot lie.” “You have such an honest face Father, I am sure they will not ask you any questions,” and she gave him the ‘hair remover.’ The aircraft arrived at its destination.

When the priest presented himself to customs he was asked, “Father, do you have anything to declare?”

“From the top of my head to my sash, I have nothing to declare, my son,” he replied. Finding this reply strange, the customs officer asked, “And from the sash down, what do you have?” The priest replied,

“I have there a marvelous little instrument designed for use by women, but which has never been used.” Breaking out in laughter, the customs officer said, “Go ahead Father. Next!”

A woman decided to treat herself to an overnight stay at the best hotel in town for her 75th birthday. When she checks out the next day, the desk clerk hands her a bill for $800.00.

Upset, she demanded to know why the charge was so high. “It’s certainly a nice hotel room, but doesn’t justify the high cost for a one-night stay,” she indicated. “I didn’t even order room service.”

The clerk informs her that it is the standard rate to which she requests to talk to the manager.

The manager listens to her complaint and announces, “I’m sorry you feel this way madam, but this hotel is the best in town and offers patrons an Olympic-sized pool and a huge conference Centre which are available for use.”

“But I didn’t use them,” she said.

“Well, they are here and you

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27

Spearfish Grille on Siesta Key could have,” replied the manager.

He went on to explain that she could have also seen one of the shows.

“We have the best entertainers from the world over performing here,” he said.

“But I didn’t even see any shows,” she declared.

“Well they are available and you could have attended a show without charge,” replied the manager. He continued to extoll all the wonderful amenities the hotel offered, to which she replied, “But I didn’t use them.”

He in turn countered with his standard response.

Realizing she wasn’t getting anywhere, she decides to write out a check and hands it to him. He thanked her then looked at the check and says, “But madam, this check is only for $300.00.”

“That’s correct. I charged you $500.00 for sleeping with me,” she replied.

“But I didn’t!” exclaimed the very surprised manager.

“Well by golly. I was here and you could have.”

Spearfish Grille is a purveyor of relaxed island dining. Spearfish opened in March 2018 and is located at Siesta Key Marina, 1265 Old Stickney Point Rd., on Siesta Key. Spearfish has been serving quality interpretations of classic dishes and new and creative ventures into island food and amazingly fresh local fish.

Spearfish Grille’s interior, designed by the marina owners, reflects the hip sensibilities of the world famous Siesta Key beach while also paying tribute to Siesta Key Marina and the local fishing community’s past. the small, quaint restaurant offers inside dining, a comfortable patio dining area and outside surrounded by coconut palms and our custom fire pit.

Call them at 941-349-1970 with any questions.

I was in the six item express lane at the store quietly fuming.

Completely ignoring the sign, the woman ahead of me had slipped into the check-out line pushing a cart piled high with groceries.

Imagine my delight when the cashier beckoned the woman to come forward looked into the cart and asked sweetly, “So which six items would you like to buy?”

Wouldn’t it be great if that happened more often?

Because they had no reservations at a busy restaurant, my elderly neighbor and his wife were told there would be a 45 minute wait for a table.

“Young man, we’re both 90 years old,” the husband said. “We may not have 45 minutes.”

They were seated immediately.

All eyes were on the radiant bride as her father escorted her down the aisle. They reached the altar and the waiting groom. The bride kissed her father and placed something in his hand.

The guests in the front pews responded with ripples of laughter.

Even the priest smiled broadly.

As her father gave her away in marriage, the bride gave him back his credit card.

Karaoke Thursday, Friday & Saturday

28

Siesta Sand

MAY 2019

941.349.0194

John Garner

Roberts Realty

Broker Associate

Diane Shane Broker Associate

941-924-2330

Working with Sarasota Buyers & Sellers since 1969 • Local Expertise • Proven Track Record • Happy Clients Condos, Villas, Single Family Homes & Investments

We are with you every step of the way!

M-5 2621 Mall Dr., Sarasota RobertsRealty@comcast.net www.SarasotaCoast.com

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1

DISCOVER GULF GATE’S SHOPPING VILLAGE With our map, located below, you’ll be able to navigate your way to our featured shops with ease.

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

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

Closed on Sundays and Mondays.

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

Gulf Gate Barber Shop (G-11): has been an institution in the community for years, owned

by Kyle Flannery. The super-clean barbershop’s clientele is comprised of primarily men, but the shop services children as well. Scott Reich, formerly of the Siesta Key Village Barber Shop has relocated to this location.

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

Hours: Mon-Sun.: 8 a.m. – 2 p.m.

Piccolos Italian Market & Deli (G-47) carries a full line of imported cheeses, fresh baked bread daily, homemade sausages, fresh mozzarella, and numerous hard to get items. They now carry Khorasan Wheat which is an ancient and organic grain. Their Deli is complete with huge hot and cold sandwiches, salads, fresh homemade lasagna and baked ziti.

West End Pub (G-49) Where else can you watch your favorite game with a great selection of beers, wines and liquors served by a friendly staff AND where you’re allowed to bring your own restaurant or deli food? Right here. 6500 Gateway Ave. – 941554-8905.

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.

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© Island Visitor Publishing, LLC 2018

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Panera Bread

Bed Bath & Beyond

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

Ross

Dress for Less

Iberia Bank

Five Below 1

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3

4

2

G-4

G12 G11 G10 G9 G8 G7 G6 G5 G4 G3

G1

S29 S28 S27 S26 S25 S24 S23 S22 S21 S20 S19 S18 S17 S16 S15 S14 S13 S12 S11 S10 S9 S8

D

C

B

S7 S6 S5 S4 S3 S2 S1

Gulf Gulf Gate Gate Drive Drive

Gulf Gulf Gate Gate Drive Drive

3

4

5

PICCOLO

SRQ

Italian Market & Deli

6

7

THE SHOP SRQ 6625 Gateway Ave.

G-2

Traditional, Old School Barber Shop

“We Straight Razor Shave”

Hot or Cold

15 Years + Experience

www.TheShopSrq.com

& Vegetarian Sandwiches

Authentic New York Italian Market & Deli S-16

G14 G13

G2

G24

5

G16 G15

S30

A

Lo Ho ng rn

1

Marshall’s

S59 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

G23 G22 G21 G20 G19 G18 G17

Superior Avenue

Books-AMillion

Beall’s Outlet

Mall Mall Drive Drive

G50 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

E

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

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

Michaels

Gateway Avenue

941-925-2400

Hooters

Sun Trust

C

Original Word of Mouth 6604 Gateway Ave. Sarasota, FL 34231

Publix

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

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

Over 150 businesses make up this district.

D

Eat Where The Locals Eat!

Stein Mart

7

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

M7

M6

M5 M4 M3 M2 M1

E

G-31

www.siestasand.net

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.

GG-46 G-47 Specialty Italian gourmet items without the gourmet price

Come See Our New Location Store Hours: Mon.-Sat. 10am - 6pm 6518 Gateway Ave.

941-923-2202

www.PiccoloMarket.com

941.626.4894 / 941.536.1656 • No Appointment Needed •

TONSORIAL ARTISTRY

BY ERICK & DAWN

Open Tues.-Fri. 8:30 AM-6 PM Sat. 11/1 - 5/30; 8:30-3 PM Sat. 6/1 - 10/31; 8:30 AM - 1 PM

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

www.siestasand.net

941.349.0194

MAY 2019

Giving Siesta Key the kayak-around For many a winter I gave Siesta Key beaches, bike paths and roads the run-around preparing for the 26 Boston Marathons I ran.

Now I have nothing more to prove these days other than to bike on Siesta beach and to kayak around, circumnavigating Siesta Key. After visiting my parents all those years, I am a proud second generation condo owner. Waiting now for that right day, tide and weather-wise to replicate my first kayak around Siesta Key. That would be leaving on an outgoing morning tide, from under the Stickney Pt. Bridge north, past Phillipi Creek toward Sarasota Big Pass. After a few miles of mangroves, cut inside of Bay Isle by entering the Hansen Bayou from Roberts Bay. The Hansen Bayou is a canal short cut to the Big Pass between North Siesta Key and Bay Isle.

There is a “low” bridge Siesta Drive/758, crossing overhead.

First landing was on a popular sand spit before leaving the Sarasota Big Pass. Then a 3.5 nautical mile Gulf of Mexico journey south to Midnight Pass. The Rhumb Line direct to the closed up Midnight Pass takes one about 1/2 mile off Crescent Beach and Point of Rocks. A Gulfside “bail out “would be landing on Crescent Beach near Beach Access #12.

Divinely, the Gulf wind gods prevail lightly from the west, as it happens “onshore” on many a Sarasota afternoon.

My crash landing onto Midnight Pass beach was “controlled,” getting the kayak onto the beach with the assist from a beachgoer before I got up and out of the Gulf. There is a 2 foot drop-off/climb up onto Midnight

Pass beach. Took me five minutes floating with my life vest “chillin” before climbing out of the Gulf.

After a few Gulf beach moments, dragged over sand my Ocean 11 foot Scrambler kayak from the Gulf to the bay, where there was a water flowing from Midnight Pass some 30 years ago. From Palmer Point, bayside of Midnight Pass kayaked through the Neville Nature Preserve, past the abandoned Mote Marine shark tanks, then cruised past the outlet of Turtle Beach Lagoon before landing at Turtles Restaurant for air conditioned refreshments. After about an hour nursing two soda waters, got back onto the sit-on-top kayak, without ever drinking the Margarita I also ordered.

Island Visitor Publishing, LLC

29

Submitted by Stan Wasserman

From Turtles Restaurant, kayaking the Siesta Key side of the busy Intercoastal Waterway channel, it is just 3+ nautical miles north, back to the Stickney Pt. Bridge.

I traveled a total 15 nautical miles in seven hours, total time.

Circumnavigating Siesta Key by kayak provides a most unique tour of its natural beauty as well as waterside housing. The multitude of mangroves, bayous, canals and lagoons makes for plans of future, shorter Siesta Key kayak explorations.

Siesta Key Bike & Kayak can assist in kayak & paddle board rentals. Launch off the beach into the Gulf, the Intercoastal Waterway by the Stickney Pt. Bridge, or at the Turtle Beach lagoon.

St. Michael’s Church St. Michael the Archangel Parish Hall has been torn down, temporarily converting the slab from the hall into parking spots until 80% of the funds are raised to build the new Parish Hall.

Siesta Key’s St. Michael Church is undertaking a sizable capital campaign. The parish is seeking help

from all residents, businesses and visitors as it takes on this monumental endeavor. No monetary donation is too small with all funds raised staying with the parish for the building project. To read more about this go to, https://siestasand.net/st-michael-the-archangelsiesta-key-undertakes-sizable-capital-campaign/

Island Churches: • Siesta Key Chapel, Presbyterian (USA) 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

DISCOVER GULF GATE’S SHOPPING VILLAGE

Continued from the previous page

Wild Ginger Apothecary (S-19) has been successfully providing sustainable, ethically produced, and nontoxic products for beauty, home and nutrition to the health conscious consumers of Sarasota since October of 2014. Their latest offerings is a CBD Boutique area featuring hundreds of hemp and CBD products.

Wild Ginger Apothecary also offers classes and workshops for a variety of audiences on topics that cover lifestyle, creativity, health, and more in the Studio + Lounge. Z6557 Superior Ave. 941-3125630, www.woldgingerapothecary.com Solórzano’s Late Night Pizzeria (S-32): At every Solórzano’s, they offer an experience familiar to those who understand the importance of family and dedication. Their recipes and techniques have been perfected through three long generations based on the traditional simplicity of the methods used by their Italian ancestors. Dine inside, outside, pick up, or DELIVERY anywhere on Siesta Key, or in Sarasota until 3:30 a.m.6670 Superior Ave., 941-9245800.

Pride of the South (S-34) Pride of the South has been awarded Top Barbeque in Sarasota for 2016

by Trip Advisor and Yelp. It has been awarded for the best Southern Hospitality. Pride of the South has a brisket BLT, hands down, one of the best sandwiches you ever tasted. The smoked chicken wings are unbelievable. Backed up with the pulled pork sandwiches, the smoked bologna, the smoked Turkey, the collard greens, fried corn on the cob,

fried okra, fried green tomatoes and one of the best mac n cheese you ever tasted. We do catering with no limit to size. Call (941)926-0099. See you soon.

Gulf Gate Food + Beer (S-51): Sarasota’s late-night hot spot for the service industry, night owls, and midnight snackers. It’s not your typical sports bar offering unique menu selections for carnivores and vegetarians. Be sure to check out their menu online at: eatfooddrinkbeer.com. Hours: 11 a.m. – 1 a.m.

(Sun. - Thurs.) open until 2 a.m. (Fri & Sat.).

One Minute Key Shop (GG-51): Left your keys in the car? No worries, the One Minute Key Shop will help you safely unlock and retrieve your keys. They specialize in high security locks, keys, re-keying, master keying and safes for residential, commercial or automotive. Call for more info: 941924-8020 or visit their showroom.

ROBERTS REALTY, Inc. (M-5) John Garner, Broker Assoc. & Diane Shane, Broker Assoc. have a combined 40 years’ experience in Sarasota of making dreams come true for our clients. FOR BUYERS, we have had great success in finding the right property for our clients because we listen closely to their wants and needs and matching that as close as possible. FOR SELLERS, over the years we have successfully listed and sold many, many properties throughout Sarasota County. OUR PHILOSOPHY is to have fun, enjoy the experience, achieve great results, make friends and receive referrals. We’re with you every step of the way! Call 941-924-2330 or drop by our office.

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, FL 34231 • First Christian Church 7601 Clark Road, Sarasota, FL 34241. 941-922-4434 www.fccsarasota.com

simple cremations

790

$

simple burials

1,195

$

Online arrangements available Sarasota (941) 312-6371 | Manatee (941) 213-9234 SoundChoiceCremation.com

30

Siesta Sand

MAY 2019

941.349.0194

www.siestasand.net

2019 Siesta Key Annual Easter Egg Hunt and Children’s Party The Siesta Key Chamber of Commerce and Siesta Key’s St. Michael’s Catholic Church held their annual Easter Egg Hunts on Saturday, April 20. They would like to thank everyone who participated in, volunteered at, and sponsored the Annual Easter Egg Hunt and Children’s Party. They sincerely couldn’t have done it without all of you. Special thanks to

Siesta Key Kiwanis Club for providing volunteers, coordination assistance for the SK Chamber at Turtle’s Beach. St. Michael’s would like to thank Dave Weeks for donating the banners and the use of Glebe Park for St. Michael’s event. Over 225 children participated in the events.

We make every effort to ensure the accuracy of this information.

However, please be sure to always call ahead to confirm dates, times, location, and other information.

WEEKLY BEACH CLASSES: • FREE T’AI CHI CHIH Siesta Beach, Access #5 - Every Monday, 15 minutes before sunset. Open to all, no experience necessary. Contact Diana Daffner 941-346-1024 for information.

(Access #5 is in Siesta Village, where Beach Rd. meets Ocean Blvd.)

• FREE YOGA - Mon.Wed.-Fri.-Sat. 9 a.m. Classes held between blue and green lifeguard station. Call 941320-6693 to register or go to website for more info. www.yogaonsiestabeach.com/ about • GROUP FITNESS CLASSES – Join F.I.T. Tribe SRQ every

Mon, Wed, & Sat. at 9 a.m. at the main pavilion. For more details, please see facebook page: www. facebook.com/FitTribeSRQ • NIA - Tues. & Thurs., 9 a.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

• SIESTA KEY BEACH HOOP JAMS – Every Tuesday one hour before Sunset on Siesta Key beach we gather for a community Hoop Jam. (Between the red lifeguard stand and the pavilion; around where the Sunday drum circle happens.) Register at: www.outwardspiral.net WEEKLY DRUM CIRCLE: • Every Sunday about an hour before sunset. South of the main pavilion. You can participate or watch this weekly gathering and dance, hoop, play the drum or other musical instrument, and enjoy the spectacular Siesta sunset.

On The Beach…

• MAY 4 (SAT) 8AM-2PM / ANNUAL AMATEUR SAND SCULPTING CONTEST: Come enjoy some fun, sun, and sand at the 47th annual Siesta Key Amateur Sand Sculpting Contest!

This free, family-friendly event is open to competitors of all ages and skill levels. Cash prizes will be available and are sponsored by Friends of Sarasota County Parks and the Siesta Key Chamber of Commerce.

Competing categories include adult individuals, adult teams, children (10 years and younger) and youths (ages 11-17).

This event is open to 25 contestants and if you are interested in signing up, please contact Sarasota County Parks, Recreation and Natural Resources (941) 861-5000 or visit: scgov.net.

• MAY 4-5 (SAT - SUN) 8AM – 7PM / EAST END VOLLEYBALL TOURNAMENT: The goal of the leagues is to foster good, honorable competition on the volleyball court with every team following the spirit of fair competition.

Players/teams should strive to reach their highest level of competition in a fair sportsmanlike manner.

Winning is important but it should be far from the ultimate goal. This is not the Pros and the prizes are not really worth that much. For more information, go to their website: www.eevb.net • MAY 11 (SAT) 7-11 AM / GREAT MOTHER’S RACE: This event is in its 7th year and is a fun event the entire family can enjoy together. Everyone is welcome.

All participants will receive free race pictures, a dry-fit T-shirt, medal, and a goodie bag. There will be prizes and awards for the top finishers in all age groups.

There are only 300 available spots for participants and registration is required. To register, go to: www.greatmothersdayrace. com/sarasota/ • MAY 12 (SUN) 7AM NOON / TROPICAL SPLASH OPEN WATER SWIM COMPETITION: Sponsored by Daiquiri Deck. 1K, 5K, 2.5K swim competition. The race is open to all members of U.S. Masters Swimming and all ATHLETE members of USA Swimming.

Continued on page 32

www.siestasand.net

941.349.0194

Captain Jim Klopfer’s Fishing Report Adventure Charters 941-371-1390

Tarpon show up off the Siesta Key beaches in May

May is a transition month in Sarasota. Although the calendar says it is still spring, by late May it will definitely feel like summer time.

Pelagic species such as king and Spanish mackerel will have migrated north, inshore fishing will be best early and late, and giant tarpon will invade the inshore Gulf of Mexico, a sure sign that summer is here!

Speckled trout fishing is normally good in May. However, we are still recovering from the red tide, so it is hard to say. The flats near Big Pass should be productive. Casting Bass Assassin 4” Sea Shad baits on ¼ ounce jig heads in front of a drifting boat will produce speckled trout and some ladyfish. A live shrimp under a noisy cork is a deadly technique for catching trout. Pinfish, grunts, and pilchards will produce less fish, but generally larger ones.

The shallow flats will be very active as they flood with bait. A low, incoming tide is the best time to search for reds and snook in the skinny water. Fish will stage in holes and deeper water then move up onto the shallow flats as the tide floods. Scented soft plastics, weedless gold spoons, topwater plugs, and live bait are all effective. Lures work best when looking for fish, water can be covered quickly. Live bait is best once the fish are located. Some of the largest trout will also be found in shallow water.

Snook will be moving out to the beaches and will be scattered out all over. Mangrove points and bars near the passes should hold snook, as will structure in both Big Pass and New Pass. Outgoing tides are preferred, but as long as the water is moving, fish can be caught.

Plugs are great baits that cover a lot of water quickly and are great fun to fish. Jigs and other soft plastics work well, too. Anglers who are proficient with a cast net will load up the well with pilchards and catch a lot of fish.

Surf fishing should be excellent and by the end of May there will be decent numbers of snook in the surf line. Small white jigs and flies work well on snook, as does live bait fish. Silver spoons cast out and retrieved in quickly will fool mackerel and ladyfish. Live shrimp will fool a variety of species.

By the middle of the month, many guides and recreational anglers will be focusing on one of the most exciting angling challenges found anywhere, light tackle casting to giant tarpon! This is truly world class big game fishing. Tarpon that migrate up our coasts are large fish that average 80 pounds, but reach over 200 pounds. 25-30 lb. spinning tackle and 12 weight fly rods are used most often. A live crab is the preferred bait, but live pinfish and other bait fish work well, too. These baits are fairly light and spinning tackle works best to cast and present baits.

MAY 2019

31

Island Visitor Publishing, LLC

Water World

Notes from the Island Fishmonger As Snow Crab season ends, Cobia season begins We have all heard of and eaten the well-known and popular Florida Gulf fish such as Grouper, Snapper and MahiMahi. Well there are a few other very sustainable and good eating fish out there in the Gulf that you may have never heard of or at least have never had on your dinner plate. Parrotfish, Pompano, Barracuda, Mako, Wahoo, Tripletail and Hogfish are all fish that will rotate through your Siesta Key fish market display cases during the upcoming spring and summer months. They are all different, sustainable, local and delicious.

I would suggest you try them all at some point in the following months while they are available.

But the month of May brings us one standout in particular.

When it comes to fish, Cobia is in a class of its own. Literally.

There are scores of fish in the Snapper and Grouper families but this fish family contains only one member: Cobia. Cobia is also known as the Lemon Fish or crab eater. This underrated fish makes for excellent table fare.

Cobia feeds from both deep water and shallow waters and 75% of their diet consists of swimming crabs. The meat is dense and firm yet delicate with a white flake. Its flavor has a hint of lemon with also a hint of crab. It’s an excellent fish for the outdoor grill and is often served as sushi.

One interesting fact is that Cobia are travelers.

Research from a Mississippi laboratory indicates that most Cobia migrate in the spring from South Florida waters where they have spent the winter.

Movement is northward along the Florida Coast then they head west towards Louisiana and reverse migration takes place in the fall. Recently a tagged Cobia traveled more than 1,200 miles. It was tagged off of Pensacola Beach and recaptured at Murrells Inlet, South Carolina only 238 days later. I call that a snowbird so get some Cobia while you still can.

Slather with salsa, top with fresh, rough chopped cilantro and serve.

Just a reminder, our south location has acquired an extra dining area so we will now be able to handle large reservations and private parties. Our new dining section specializes in shellfish, steam pots and customized menus. If you’re interested in treating visiting guests, friends, or family to a truly fresh seafood dining experience, please text me at

Jada eating BWFM fried Cobia Bites

404-509-5391.

Live well...Eat fish Scott Dolan

Big Water Fish Market 6641 Midnight Pass Rd, Siesta Key 941-554-8101 www.BigWaterFishMarket.com

MAY 2019 TIDE CHART Florida, St. Petersburg, Sarasota, Sarasota Bay

May 2019

N 27° 20' / W 82° 33' Date

Day

1

We

11:34a

High Tide 1.7

2

Th

11:48a

1.8

3

Fr

12:38a

4

Sa

5

High Tide

Sunrise

Sunset

Moonrise

Moonset

5:50a

0.4

6:28p

0.5

6:51a

8:04p

5:10a

5:15p

6:19a

0.6

7:03p

0.3

6:50a

8:05p

5:42a

6:09p

6:43a

0.6

7:38p

0.1

6:50a

8:06p

6:15a

7:03p

2.1

7:04a

0.7

8:15p

-0.1

6:49a

8:06p

6:50a

8:00p

12:45p

2.2

7:24a

0.9

8:54p

-0.2

6:48a

8:07p

7:28a

8:59p

1.4

1:13p

2.4

7:43a

1.0

9:38p

-0.3

6:47a

8:07p

8:10a

9:59p

1.3

1:46p

2.5

8:02a

1.1

10:27p

-0.4

6:47a

8:08p

8:57a

11:00p

5:05a

1.2

2:25p

2.5

8:19a

1.1

11:24p

-0.4

6:46a

8:09p

9:49a

11:59p

3:10p

2.4

6:45a

8:09p

10:47a

Fr

4:07p

2.2

12:27a

-0.3

6:44a

8:10p

11:48a

12:56a

Sa

5:23p

2.0

1:34a

-0.3

6:44a

8:10p

12:52p

1:48a

Su

9:57a

1.5

7:07p

1.8

2:40a

-0.2

2:11p

1.3

6:43a

8:11p

1:56p

2:36a

Mo

10:14a

1.6

8:54p

1.7

3:39a

0.0

3:54p

1.0

6:43a

8:11p

3:00p

3:20a

14

Tu

10:35a

1.7

10:21p

1.6

4:30a

0.2

5:05p

0.7

6:42a

8:12p

4:04p

4:01a

15

We

10:58a

1.8

11:33p

1.6

5:12a

0.4

6:02p

0.4

6:41a

8:13p

5:06p

4:40a

16

Th

11:21a

2.0

5:48a

0.6

6:52p

0.1

6:41a

8:13p

6:09p

5:18a

17

Fr

12:36a

1.6

11:45a

2.2

6:17a

0.7

7:38p

-0.1

6:40a

8:14p

7:11p

5:57a

18

Sa

1:34a

1.5

12:10p

2.3

6:42a

0.9

8:21p

-0.3

6:40a

8:14p

8:13p

6:38a

19

Su

2:29a

1.4

12:37p

2.4

7:03a

1.0

9:04p

-0.4

6:39a

8:15p

9:14p

7:21a

20

Mo

3:25a

1.3

1:06p

2.5

7:22a

1.1

9:46p

-0.4

6:39a

8:15p

10:12p

8:07a

21

Tu

4:24a

1.3

1:37p

2.4

7:40a

1.2

10:29p

-0.3

6:38a

8:16p

11:07p

8:57a

22

We

2:13p

2.4

11:14p

-0.2

6:38a

8:17p

11:57p

23

Th

2:53p

2.2

6:38a

8:17p

11:53p

1.6

1.6

12:03p

1.9

1:22a

1.6

12:21p

Su

2:06a

1.5

6

Mo

2:54a

7

Tu

3:51a

8

We

9

Th

10 11 12 13

Low Tide

Low Tide

New

1st

Full

9:49a 10:42a

Kathleen D Sailing Catamarans

24

Fr

3:41p

2.0

12:03a

-0.1

6:37a

8:18p

12:43a

11:35a

25

Sa

8:37a

1.4

4:43p

1.8

12:55a

0.0

11:35a

1.3

6:37a

8:18p

1:24a

12:29p

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.

26

Su

8:59a

1.5

6:08p

1.6

1:48a

0.1

1:44p

1.3

6:36a

8:19p

2:02a

1:21p

27

Mo

9:23a

1.6

7:50p

1.6

2:40a

0.2

3:20p

1.1

6:36a

8:19p

2:36a

2:13p

28

Tu

9:45a

1.6

9:21p

1.5

3:27a

0.4

4:27p

0.8

6:36a

8:20p

3:09a

3:06p

29

We

10:07a

1.8

10:35p

1.5

4:10a

0.6

5:19p

0.6

6:36a

8:20p

3:41a

3:58p

30

Th

10:28a

1.9

11:38p

1.5

4:46a

0.6

6:03p

0.4

6:35a

8:21p

4:14a

4:52p

31

Fr

10:49a

2.0

5:17a

0.8

6:45p

0.1

6:35a

8:21p

4:48a

5:48p

©2019 FreeTideTables.com - For comparison only - Times are local - Tides in feet from MLLW

Phase

3rd

32

Siesta Sand

MAY 2019

941.349.0194

Arts on the Horizon

www.siestasand.net

By Rodger Skidmore beer and soft drinks. And, as always, each evening will end with a big bang - Fireworks Galore. Fireworks Galore is not the name of someone appearing at the Comedy Club downtown but is still a great way to end an evening.

I don’t know the answer, what’s the question?

The song behind the credits of the Netflix show Grace and Frankie is Stuck In The Middle With You. As of this writing, the Baltimore Orioles are stuck in the middle of the American League East - just one loss behind the Yankees. So, do you care? Actually, that’s not the question. The question(s) could be, Where will the Orioles be on May 10th - 11th and May 18th? Even more importantly, where will you be - relative to the Baltimore Orioles? For a heads up on the Orioles, check the Vegas betting line, it should give you a clue. But for you, you should be at Ed Smith Stadium - with or without the Orioles.

If you are in the stadium on May 10 or 11, the Sarasota Orchestra will be there with you. They’ve finished their gig at the Van Wezel and have moved on into summer, playing the infield at The Ed like the pros that they are.

I know that you all attended the Orchestra’s previous 5 annual concerts there but this one is different. The theme for 2019 is Women Rock. And rock they will, with Grammynominated Cassidy Catanzaro, Katrine Rose from The Voice, and that jazz vocalist from Broadway, Shayna Steele. They will be singing, and the orchestra will be playing, tunes made famous by Aretha Franklin (You Make Me Feel Like A Natural Woman), Tina Turner (Proud Mary), and Joan Jett (I Love Rock n’ Roll). There will also be tribute songs to Minnie Riperton, Janis Joplin, and Carole King. Info at SarasotaOrchestra.org.

In keeping with the musical theme, the Westcoast Black Theatre Troupe is having a ‘70s Soul Party at the stadium the evening of May 18th. And for a bit of trivia, Baltimore finished first in the American League East in 1970, ’71, ’73, ’74, and 79. Perhaps that’s why the WBTT is saluting the ‘70s, they are actually celebrating Baltimore - and by extension, Ed Smith stadium and Sarasota. Hooray! And let’s hear it for Stevie Wonder (Superstition), Marvin Gaye (Let’s Get It On), The Jackson 5 (I Want You Back), and The Commodores (Brick House). Details at WestcoastBlackTheatre.org.

The best ballpark franks will be at all events, along with

It’s May and things are blooming and booming Blooming, in that there will be a number of new dance works popping up at this year’s Sarasota Contemporary Dance festival held at the Cook Theatre, at FSU’s Center for the Performing Arts May 2 - 5 (3 evening performances and a matinee). As always, the theme, and name of this end-of-year event, is Evolving / Revolving. Revolving, or bringing back past shows that were judged to be the ones the audience loved the most. And Evolving, new dance concepts and creations that will push contemporary dance a few steps into the future.

Booming, in that there will also be fireworks. Fireworks of the mind, where your synapses snap, crackle and pop with these old favorites and new works. Rachael Inman, FSU grad / co-founder of Fuzión Dance Artists (which became Sarasota Contemporary Dance), will be performing a new aerial dance piece, perhaps infused (infuzed?) with Middle Eastern movements. There will also be a piece by Gerri Houlihan who studied at Juilliard with Anthony Tudor and members of the Martha Graham dance company. Ms. Houlihan also taught dance at FSU for ten years. Another FSU alumna is Pamela Pietro, currently on the faculty of the Tisch School of the Arts at New York University. One of her works will be performed as well. Seems like FSU is a central hub for dance in America, whether it be traditional ballet or modern dance - great choreography, teachers and dancers. Dancers - alphabetically they are A, A, B, D, F, H, J, L, R, R, and, of course, S. Want their full names? go to a performance. You won’t be disappointed. Info at: SarasotaContemporaryDance.org.

Just say yes!

Marie Kondo writes that you should unclutter your life - if something does not give you joy, just get rid of it. Couple of questions here. When you acquired that whatchamacallit, did it give you immediate pleasure or did you get some pleasure out of anticipating what you would do with it,

and thinking about how much extra joy you would receive at some future date? If it gave you immediate pleasure, it probably was (depending upon your age) an ice cream cone or the first time you ever ________. Either way, it doesn’t take up any space now (forget about your hips) and you can experience it again anyway (you hope). If it is a continuously tangible item and future joy has not arrived, Ms. Kondo says “Hasta la vista, baby.” But if you chuck it, you are also throwing out that future potential enjoyment.

Remember, it’s not location, location, location but location, potential, availability. And what are you going to do with that space that just became available - buy something from Ikea? I think not.

So, what to do with those layers of textured colored vinyl tiles you’ve been hoarding since living in Greenwich Village? Throw them out or go to the Ringling Museum and see Natasha Mazurka’s exhibition of, guess what, textured layers of colored vinyl. Also, some of her paintings and embossings. Hey, in your garage, behind the three cans of paint thinner, aren’t there some things that need embossing? The point being, if you wanted to do something with something but haven’t gotten around to it - re-apply yourself. One way is to go to the Ringling and look at their art - they actually have quite a bit. And some of it keeps changing (they’re not throwing it out, it’s circulating from one museum or collection to another). Take a look at what some artist did and, if you think you can do it one eighth as well, go ahead and try. Another case in point is Wood block printing. Until May 5th (go now) there are prints from Japan in a number of styles. You can buy rubber stamps of bunny rabbits and stars and let your 5 year old granddaughter play with them, or you can get some balsa wood and carve/ scrape some images on it, glue the result to a small piece of plywood and you’ve got your own wood block. Your 5 year old granddaughter, ink pad in hand, will have fun stamping it all over your dining room walls. But first, go see how the masters did it. Or take a course at Ringling College and create something better.

The Searing Wing of the Ringling holds temporary exhibitions. Now through September 8th is an exhibition titled Interpolations: Artworks from the Ringling and Monda collections. Sort of more from the Ringling in that Keith and Linda Monda have promised some of their works that are on display to the Ringling. Nice for the Ringling and later, nice for us. Details at Ringling.org.

Continued from page 30

Adults who are not current members of U.S. Masters Swimming may pay for a one-day membership during the online entry process; the one-day membership is $22.00 (in addition to the event entry fee). A better deal is to join USMS in September or October and select the “year-plus” membership option: http:// www.usms.org/reg/register.php. Oneday memberships are NOT available for swimmers under the age of 18. The Sarasota YMCA sharks swim team has been developing champions since 1961.

• MAY 18 -19 (SAT - SUN) 7 AM – 8 PM / DIG THE BEACH VOLLEYBALL TOURNAMENT: Dig the Beach Volleyball Series is the most established and successful grassroots series of its kind catering to both professional and amateur players. Some of the top professionals on the Domestic & World Tours have graduated from this organization.

This tournament is open to competitors of all levels and divisions and is open to 500 players - registration is required for all players and coaches.

To register or for additional info, see website: www.digthebeach.com

Around the island…

• WEEKLY FARMER’S MARKET IN THE VILLAGE: Every Sunday from 8am – 1pm 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.

• EXPRESS LUNCH & STUDY: Every Wednesday, Noon, at Siesta Key Chapel, 4615 Gleason Avenue (and Ocean Blvd) Stimulating Bible study in a way that allows you to learn in a relaxed environment. Take a break during your day, bring your lunch and Bible to a class that studies a book of the Bible a little bite at a time. Free and open to the community.

(941) 349-1166, siestakeychapel.org • MAY 5 (SUN) STARTS AT NOON / SIESTA KEY CRUISE-IN SUNDAY: Bring your classic car or bike out for another great car cruise. Food and drinks specials. Live music starting at 2 p.m. featuring RJ Housen and Friends. Event takes place at 3.14 Pi and Blasé Café.

And Beyond…

• APRIL 5 - 14 /SARASOTA FILM FESTIVAL: Held annually in Sarasota, FL., The Sarasota Film Festival emphasizes the best in cinema alongside exciting programs and events, with more than 180 films screened each year including features, documentaries, shorts, and kidfriendly picks. Entering their 21st year, they’re proud to bring the best new and veteran independent filmmakers to our Festival with local and kid-friendly programs that showcase our idyllic Gulf Coast community. Go to their website for program info: www.sarasotafilmfestival. com • PHILLIPI ESTATE PARK: LOCATED AT: 5500 S. Tamiami Trail, Sarasota, FL 34231.

May is a wonderful month to visit the park and enjoy the pleasant early morning and last afternoon strolls along the Phillippi Creek shoreline trail. The kayak launch is available seven days a week and the Gazebo is available for rent or “first come, first served.”

Phillippi Estate Park will begin it’s summer relaxed schedule of events. The

Phillippi Farmhouse Market will be closed from end of April through September, reopening in October. The growing season ends by the end of April and does not pick up again until October of 2019.

To welcome Mother’s Day, the Bradenton-Sarasota Rose Society will hold its yearly ROSE FESTIVAL on Saturday, May 11 from 10 a.m. until 3 p.m. at the Edson Keith Mansion in Phillippi Estate Park. The FREE festival includes sale of roses – both bushes on Fortuniana root stock and cut flowers in vases – just in time for Mother’s Day. There will be a Garden Tour, display of roses that grow best in our area, classes on rose selection, culture and care. For more information, please visit: www.b-srs.org Phillippi Estate Park will again salute our veterans at the MEMORIAL DAY CONCERT, to be held on Monday, May 27 at the Gazebo. The price is $5.00 for adults. There will be food trucks available.

Please bring your lawn chairs and enjoy the SARASOTA CONCERT BAND’s annual patriotic tribute to our veterans.

For more information, please call 941-3161309.

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MAY 2019

Your Monthly Horoscope ARIES (March 21–April 19): Something on your mind, Aries?

Don’t hold it in: Find a way to express yourself without offending anyone or watering down your message.

Your ruler, blunt Mars, is in your communication center. If you can deliver a clear message with passion, you’ll have people eating out of your hand. On the 15th, Mars activates your domestic zone, making your place the place to be. Need an excuse to throw a party? Mars will hand-deliver it!

TAURUS (April 20–May 20): Make hay while the sun shines, which for you this month means as energizing Mars blasts through your money house.

Don’t waste time ruminating over decisions you’ve already made. If you get “that feeling,” go for it! If you’re still stuck on the 15th, Mars will push you off the fence when it shifts into your thoughtful house and your ruler, Venus, enters your security sector. If you’ve been procrastinating on an important issue, turn up the heat!

GEMINI (May 21–June 20): You might be tempted to issue an ultimatum on the 5th, but if you’re not fully prepared to follow through, don’t bother. A Mars-Jupiter opposition is giving you an itchy trigger finger, but you can’t risk misfiring. On the 15th, Venus and Mars both change signs, and you could be feeling very differently about someone. And when the Sun enters your sign on the 21st, you may be ready to forgive and forget—everyone.

CANCER (June 21-July 22): Been giving till it hurts (again), Cancer? Resentment might reach the tipping point on the 5th, when suppressed feelings erupt.

Don’t let the passion of the moment spark a comment you’ll instantly regret. With your social sector lit up all month, you’ll have plenty of fun distractions. Single?

You might meet a very eligible someone. On the 15th, energizing Mars enters your sign for the first time in two years, bringing the motivation you’ve been waiting for!

LEO (July 23–August 22): The first two weeks are ideal for travel, so if you’re mulling a trip, press “Book now!” Later, you’ll be more focused on work and socializing, and that great getaway will get put on hold. On the 5th, ignore friends’ unsolicited advice about your personal life. And when energizing Mars enters your zone of R+R for six weeks, it’s a cue to slow down and get the alone time you need, especially if you’ve been burning the candle at both ends.

VIRGO (August 23-September 22): You might feel like you’re in the middle of a game of tug of war on the 5th under a Mars- Jupiter opposition on your workhome axis. Since you can’t please everyone, here’s a novel concept, Virgo: Try putting yourself first! On the 15th, when Venus sizzles into your intimacy zone, make time for your love interest—or to find one. The confident Sun blasts into your professional sector on the 21st, and people will seek you out for once.

LIBRA (September 23–October 22): Partnership is a high-priority item this month as a tag team of planets fluff up the pillows in your passion zone.

By Suzanne Gerber

Attached? Make time for dancing and romancing—and talking about that issue you keep avoiding. Single Libras should get out more and chat up interesting strangers. It’s a friendly community, but sometimes you have to make the first move. Starting on the 21st, give a professional project an extra push. The finish line is within sight!

SCORPIO (October 23–November 21): It’ll be easy to get sucked into debates that have no resolution, so keep your antennae up. When you sense someone is gunning for a fight, find the exit. A number of tense angles all month could have people on edge, and you won’t have the patience for stupid human tricks. (Not that you ever do, really.) On the 15th, when your co-ruler Mars enters the “Scorpio house,” throw yourself into your passions, whether financial, metaphysical or a bit more R-rated.

SAGITTARIUS (November 22–December 21): Normally you let other people’s demands and dramas roll off your back like a duck, but some dicey angles in May could cause even cool-hand you to blow a gasket. The 5th could be especially challenging with a romantic or business partner, but take the high road, Sag, and be the bigger energy that prevails. Hang in there till the 15th, when passionate Mars enters your intimacy sector. You’ll know exactly how to recover!

CAPRICORN (December 22–January 19): May is full of ups and downs thanks to a barrage of planetary interactions in Capricorn. The takeaway: What might feel like a negative at first could quickly reveal itself as a big win. Luckily, your sign is long on patience.

Resist taking immediate action on the 7th and 9th until you see how things shake out. Passionate Mars stokes your relationship-house embers on the 15th—for the first time in two years.

AQUARIUS (January 20–February 18): Don’t take the bait on the 5th, when a friend, colleague or love interest tries to dump their frustration on you. See it for what it is and ask how you can help without getting sucked into their drama. If you’ve wanted to make any changes at home or your living situation (or buy or sell property), an opportunity could come out of the blue on the 8th, so be ready to turn on a dime!

PISCES (February 19–March 20): Pay close to attention to what you say this month and how you’re saying it, Pisces. Your introspective sign thinks you’re being clear, but often you don’t realize the clarity is only in your head! A major frisson on the 8th might force you to be more direct. Think before you speak and you’ll be golden. On the 30th, be focused on the reality of the situation don’t be overly influenced by your hopes or a fantasy, however appealing.

Suzanne Gerber (www.starsandstoneshealing.com) is a locally based intuitive astrologer, shamanic/energy practitioner and spiritual life coach. She works at Wild Ginger Apothecary in Gulf Gate on Friday afternoons on a drop-in basis and is available for private in-person and phone sessions by appointment. Or book her for your next “psychic party”!

MarinerWord Search MarinerWord Search Answers on page 42

WORD LIST

WORD ALFA LIST ALFA BRAVO BRAVO CHARLIE DELTA CHARLIE ECHO DELTA FOXTROT ECHO GOLF FOXTROT HOTEL GOLF INDIA HOTEL JULIETT KILO INDIA LIMA JULIETT MIKE KILO NOVEMBER LIMA OSCAR MIKE PAPA QUEBEC NOVEMBER ROMEO OSCAR SIERRA PAPA TANGO QUEBEC UNIFORM ROMEO VICTOR SIERRA WHISKEY X-RAY TANGO YANKEE UNIFORM ZULU VICTOR WHISKEY X-RAY YANKEE ZULU

33

Wake & Shake Just roll out of bed...your hair looks great!

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ACCOMMODATIONS PAGE 43 HOMES FOR SALE PAGE 41 - 42 SIESTA KEY MARKET STATS PAGE 36

The Highs and Lows of Properties Sold on Siesta Key

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

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

HIGHEST PRICED SINGLE FAMILY PROPERTY: 8201 MIDNIGHT PASS RD. SOLD FOR: $3,500,000 Brand new Coastal Contemporary home is a creative initiative by Nick Ferguson and is perched above the fabulous Bayfront shoreline on Siesta Key. This ultimate private oasis is exceptionally detailed with superb quality, beauty & style and has been executed to perfection! Included in the total 8256 sq. ft. is 4156 sq. ft. under air, 2256 sq. ft. of covered balconies with fireplaces and poolside fire pit, and all indoor & outdoor furnishings. Each room is designed to take full advantage of the stunning water views. With four bedrooms and three baths, home office for two, flex space for game room/gym & bunk room set the stage for an incredible lifestyle for family & friends. With direct access to a covered bayside balcony, the dreamy master suite with sitting area, two beautiful custom walk-in closets, & exquisite bath. The professional kitchen with huge island overlooks the dining and living areas with a full wall of glass sliders opening to dramatic bay panoramas, complete outdoor kitchen, & custom exterior spiral staircase to pool. The intelligence of this home is unsurpassed with full automation & remote access to landscape lighting & irrigation, boat lifts, Sonos multizone indoor/outdoor speaker system, garage door controllers, security camera system, key interior lighting, pool/spa temperature & lights, automated blinds, & wireless internet range extenders. A graceful union of comfort & artistry, this gorgeous Coastal tri-level offers immediate bay vistas and unparalleled luxury & sophistication throughout. The sale on this unit came out to $842.16 a square foot Courtesy of Greco Real Estate.

LOWEST PRICED SINGLE-FAMILY PROPERTY: 5329 AVENIDA DEL MARE. : SOLD FOR: $350,000 This quaint bungalow / cottage nestled on a 7307 sq. ft. lot transports you back to 1951 island living. A short stroll or bike ride down the street delivers you to the crystal white sands of world-famous Siesta Key Beach on the Gulf of Mexico.

The location is also central to the dining, shopping and entertainment offered within the Village of Siesta Key, where there is something for everyone to enjoy. Whether you restore the current buildings or start fresh with new build, we encourage you to imagine the possibilities. This unique property includes: main structure with 1131 sq. ft. comprised of two bedrooms, two baths and fireplace; a separate structure comprised of 153 sq. ft. which contains one room plus half bath and an outdoor shower affixed to exterior; a covered area for parking at front of property; and a separate shed in back. This property is ripe for total renovation/rebuild, providing a unique opportunity for the creative buyer with the desire to live the island lifestyle! The sale of this property came out to $300.69 a square foot Courtesy of Michael Saunders.

HIGHEST PRICED CONDO: 1249 DERBY LN, #B: SOLD FOR: $1,450,000 Located directly on the Intercoastal Waterway with spectacular full bay views all the way to downtown Sarasota. This impeccable townhome has it all — deeded beach access to the powdery white quartz sands of Siesta Beach plus a private deeded dock and 10K-lb. boat lift on the bay. Experience colorful sunrises, fishing from your dock, and blazing sunsets relaxing at the beach!

Located in a private tree-lined, pet-friendly enclave of 5

townhomes, this residence lives like a single-family home with the ease of condo ownership. Bright, open spaces feature 10’ ceilings, plantation shutters, hardwood floors and crown molding. The kitchen (2014) offers fine wood cabinetry, granite counters and stainless appliances, breakfast bar and flows seamlessly to the great room, dining room and screened Bayfront terrace where you’ll enjoy balmy bay breezes and frolicking dolphins. A den with French doors and full bath complete this floor. The upstairs master suite (2017) is bathed in natural light and enjoys a Bayfront balcony, walk-in closets and a spacious bath with a soaking tub and shower. Two guest bedrooms, bath and laundry room complete this floor.

The large, lower level covered waterfront screened lanai is a wonderful place to entertain guests. Store kayaks or paddleboard on lift platform, two-car garage. Heated community pool. Building exterior painted (2018). Close to quaint Siesta Village and only 15 minutes by car to downtown Sarasota’s restaurants, shopping, cultural activities and entertainment. The sale on this unit came out to $458.57 a square foot Courtesy of Premier Sothebys.

LOWEST PRICED CONDO: 5950 MIDNIGHT PASS RD, #103 SOLD FOR: $280,000 Enjoy your very own Florida getaway or maximize your investment by utilizing the onsite rental office or choose another rental company to service your rentals. There are 126 nights already booked for 2019. This ground floor condo is conveniently located on the Gulf side of Siesta Key (no busy street to cross) with private and gated direct beach access onto world famous Siesta Key beach.

Complex provides beach-side chairs for your enjoyment or spend your day relaxing by the pool. This unit has been nicely updated and offered turnkey furnished. The sale came out to $545.81 a square foot. Courtesy of Premier Sothebys.

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Paradise Awaits...

195 Vista Hermosa Circle, #9-A Siesta Key, FL

1122 Horizon View Drive

Just a short walk to Siesta Beach. 2 BR, 2 BA villa. Ideal rental opportunity. Custom wood cabinets in the kitchen with granite counters & upgraded appliances. Bathrooms boast tumbled marble & granite. Custom lighting. New A/C in 2017 and recently installed water heater. Roof replaced in 2016.

Sold turnkey furnished (with some exclusions).

875,000

$

429,900

$

797 Beach Road, #305

322 Island Circle

Siesta Key, FL

Full Gulf view of #1 Beach in the USA. Completely remodeled, priced to sell! High end tile floors in main living area, quality custom kitchen cabinets, deisgner kitchen. Crescent Royale offers an onsite rental program, heated pool and much more!

499,900

$

Siesta Key, FL

Deeded beach access!! Your feet will be in the Gulf of Mexico in 60 seconds!!! This immaculate pool home features large rooms and volume ceilings. Lovely oak floors and stylish tile will dazzle you. 3 BR, 3.5 BA along with the LL bonus area for generational living or guests. Bonus area downstairs is perfect for storage, workout center, hobby room or workshop. Oversized garage for cars, boat, jet skis, kayaks and/or bikes. Walking distance to local dining and a marina. Quality concrete block construction for peace of mind.

Siesta Key, FL

Beaches, Boating & Bistros!! Live the island lifestyle in this spacious 4 BR, 4 BA house located on desirable Palm Island, grossing approx. $60k in rental income. Recently renovated with new kitchen, new master BR and master BA. New boat lift on the Grand Canal. Lounge in the heated pool and spa or enjoy your favorite libation at your own private Waterfront Tiki Bar. Huge bonus area on lower level.

899,000

$

Tropical Sands Dan D. Miller 941-376-7442 Licensed Real Estate Professional

ddm1@comcast.net

Service.

Integrity.

Results.

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Siesta Sand

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Fire Station No. 13

Audubon vandalism

Continued from cover story

Her concern goes beyond protection of the plovers, she added. Referring to dog waste on the beach, Wilson emphasized, “It’s a human health issue!”

At times, she continued, she will walk up to a person with a dog on the beach and ask whether the individual knows that county law forbids the dog’s presence there. Often, she said, the answer she receives is that the person is well aware of the ordinance.

“It is getting to be so ridiculous,” she said of people’s refusal to abide by the law.

Sgt. Cernansky was very clear about the issue from the Sheriff’s Office’s perspective: “Zero tolerance of dogs on the beach.” The only exceptions, he pointed out, involve dogs on private property and those that are service animals. “We can enforce the county law and we will.”

A citation carries with it a fine of $105, he pointed out.

The 5,000-square-foot facility was constructed in 1974, according to the CIP document. The new two-story fire station is planned to be 10,500 square feet, the document notes, and it will be able to withstand winds of a Category 5 hurricane.

“This facility will incorporate the latest energy efficient systems and green materials and be designed for 40 years of service,” the document points out.

The project entails replacement of the facility “with a hardened two-bay station above the FEMA floodplain with a similar floor plan as Fire Station No. 12 located at Bee Ridge Road and Murdock Avenue and Fire Station No. 14 (Vamo) design,” the memo adds.

The county will pay the Sarasota firm of Sweet Sparkman Architects $364,900 to design the new facility near the intersection of Beach Road and Midnight Pass Road, the staff memo says. Essentially, the memo explains, Sweet Sparkman will update the engineering drawings and specifications for previously constructed fire stations and handle the necessary permitting for the project.

Additionally, the county will pay $34,000 to Willis A. Smith Construction of Sarasota to serve as construction manager at risk for the first phase of the project, the memo notes.

A construction manager at risk oversees all facets of a project, working to ensure it comes in on time and within the budget that has been set. The memo points out that Willis A. Smith’s work will include “design coordination and constructability reviews, value engineering, preparation of project estimates, schedule refinement, bidding phase services, and preparation of the GMP contract amendment proposal…”

Update on the snowy plovers Kylie Wilson, Audubon Florida’s coordinator of the Bird Monitoring and Stewardship Program in Sarasota County, has reported less trouble

www.siestasand.net

Continued from page 6

with vandalism of designated nesting areas since she alerted the public to problems the last week of March.

Wilson briefly addressed members of the Siesta Key Association (SKA) during their April 4 meeting, asking, especially, for help in keeping dogs off the beach and in educating visitors about the snowy plovers, whose population has been declining in this part of the country.

“They are a very special bird here,” Wilson explained of the plovers.

“They’ve also been doing pretty poorly,” she said, in terms of nesting.

Wilson acknowledged that, because of their coloring, “They’re kind of an invisible bird” on the beach.

“Educating people is key,” Wilson pointed out.

Last year, SKA President Catherine Luckner added, was the first time in at least 12 years “that we absolutely had no successful nest” on Siesta.

Wilson brought with her pamphlets for people to pick up, which have lots of information about the snowy plovers.

One FWC pamphlet explains, “Populations of beachnesting birds are declining due to significant modification and disturbance of beaches due to human activities. The fate of each delicate nest is truly critical to the survival of these birds.”

The snowy plover typically nests from February to August along the Gulf Coast, the pamphlet adds, noting, “Snowy plover chicks begin to forage on their own just hours after hatching.”

Last year, Wilson said, the first snowy plover nest was

discovered on Siesta on April 23.

She pointed out that the materials also include phone numbers for the public to call if someone sees an incident of vandalism or a violation of the county’s ban on dogs on the beach.

“We’re trying to boost the number of calls” to the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC), Wilson continued, as that agency has jurisdiction over wildlife issues.

(When he was the Sheriff’s Office substation leader on the Key, Sgt. Paul Cernansky emphasized his policy of “zero tolerance for dogs” on the beach, because the County Code of Ordinances prohibits them on the public shoreline. His deputies will write a $105 citation to an offender, he said. The Sheriff’s Office’s nonemergency number is 941-316-1201.)

Wilson told the SKA members on April 4 that she was hopeful that if enough people phoned the FWC about problems on the beach, the agency might offer regular help to her in monitoring the nesting situation.

Anyone who sees dogs disturbing wildlife is asked to report the incident to FWC’s Wildlife Alert Hotline, which is 888-404-3922 (FWCC). On a cell phone, a person can hit #FWC or *FWC, or a person can text Tip@ FWC.com.

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Siesta Key Chamber of Commerce events

March Business Card Exchange at Siesta Healing Everyone had a great time at the March BCE hosted by Siesta Healing!

Guests learned about all of the awesome treatments this holistic spa and wellness center offers such as massages, facials, salt room therapy, acupuncture and yoga. Thank you, Karen Mahlios and Siesta Healing staff, for hosting the event! Also, a huge thank you to to the following businesses from donating door prizes: Chick-fil-A Pelican Plaza, GEM Travel, Siesta Key Jet Ski, and Siesta Healing.

April Networking Luncheon at PI 3.14 Pizza & Craft Beer The Chamber kicked the weekend off right with the April luncheon at PI 3.14 Pizza & Craft Beer featuring special guest Sip-N-Cycle Cruises!

Guests enjoyed a buffet of salad, wings, and pizza before catching a ride on the hot pink Petal Party Bike! Thank you, Kevin and staff at PI 3.14, and Brittany at Sip-N-Cycle Cruises, for hosting this fun and unique event!

Also, we appreciate the following businesses that donated door prizes: SERVPRO of South Sarasota, Business World Promo, Regions Mortgage, Coldwell Banker Real Estate, Comfort Suites Sarasota-Siesta Key, and Ruth’s Chris Steakhouse!

Siesta Key Chamber of Commerce 5114 Ocean Blvd, Siesta Key, 941-349-3800

Blooming This Month IRISES Why not Irises?

Irises are a gorgeous variety of flowering plants that give rise to truly amazing flowers blooming this month at Sarasota Garden Club.

There are several types of Irises that will bloom in Southern Florida. This includes African, blue flag, walking, and the blackberry lily, whose beautiful blooms look like Lilies.

These striking plants make great accents with their green strap like foliage alone, but have exquisite colorful blooms. Irises are fairly tough from disease, drought, and insect resistant.

A bonus is they attract butterflies and hummingbirds that use the nectar as a food source. Many of these will bloom several times a

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

Walking Iris

Mire Walking Iris

year. Come walk our gardens and see when they are in bloom. Save the Dates: 12/6/19-Holiday High Tea; 2/10/20-Fashion Show (SHIVOO GARDEN PARTY); 3/14/20-Gardens in Paradise Tour and Plant Sale.

Kay Weber, Botanical Gardens Chair, Sarasota Garden Club. www.sarasotagardenclub.org

38

Siesta Sand

MAY 2019

941.349.0194

Thanks to a unanimous County Commission vote on April 10, the Mira Mar neighborhood on-street parking permit program will remain in effect indefinitely.

On a motion by Commissioner Alan Maio, seconded by Commissioner Michael Moran, the board approved a revised ordinance without a sunset date.

Prior to that April 10 vote, the program was set to expire on Nov. 1.

A staff memo written for the commission in advance of the public hearing explained the reasoning behind the staff request for deletion of the sunset provision.

“The Mira Mar neighborhood on Siesta Key includes Avenida Messina, Avenida Navarra, Avenida Veneccia, Columbus Boulevard, and that part of Beach Road located west of the Siesta Key Village,” the memo said.

“In May 1994,” the memo continued, “Mira Mar residents approached the County to request the County adopt an ordinance prohibiting on-street parking in the Mira Mar neighborhood.”

After the county’s Traffic Advisory Council considered the request, that board recommended the County Commission take the step residents were seeking, the memo pointed out.

“As a result, on June 20, 1995, a residential permit parking area was established for the Mira Mar neighborhood,” the memo said. The ordinance included language calling for

Save Our Siesta Sand

the program to sunset in one year. Some of the subsequent, similar ordinances for the Mira Mar parking permit program had sunset dates and some did not, the memo explained. Most recently, on Aug. 26, 2014, the commission approved the ordinance that was set to expire on Nov. 1.

The memo added, “The residential permit parking enforcement helps protect the area from excessive noise and unreasonable burdens to gain access to residences, while preserving the character of the area, and promoting efficiency of the maintenance of the neighborhood streets in a clean and safe condition.”

This program “also helps to preserve the value of the property in the area,” the memo noted, “and provides for greater pedestrian and traffic safety, clean air and the comfort, health, convenience and welfare of the Mira Mar neighborhood.”

Signage in the area notes the necessity of parking permits, the memo added.

During recent staff updates to the affected property owners, the memo noted, staff found continued support for the parking prohibition. The memo also pointed out that the owners wanted to see the sunset provision removed from the ordinance, and county staff did not object to that.

No member of the public signed up to address the board during the hearing on April 10.

By Rachel Brown Hackney SarasotaNewsLeader.com

SIESTA KEY VILLAGE

Mira Mar parking permit program made permanent

www.siestasand.net

Continued from page 6

SOSS2 attorney Jane West, whose eponymous law firm is located in St. Augustine, has argued that the USACE has violated the National Environmental Policy Act (NEPS), the Clean Water Act (CWA), the Endangered Species Act (ESA) and the Administrative Procedure Act (APA).

(The APA “governs the process by which federal agencies develop and issue regulations,” the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) website explains.)

The March 18 USACE motion in the case noted that the Administrative Proceeding Act (APA) “provides for judicial review of final agency action based on the administrative record.” Citing a ruling by the Fifth U.S. Circuit Court of Appeals, the USACE motion said, “‘The task of the reviewing court is to apply the appropriate APA standard of review … to the agency decision based on the record the agency presents to the reviewing court.’”

“Further,” the motion continued, “because this litigation seeks to review the Corps’ actions under the APA, discovery is not warranted and expert reports should not be filed.

Additionally, the motion said, “This District Court has further recognized that ‘since the Court determines the issues based

on the agency’s administrative record, a trial is generally unnecessary and summary judgment is often appropriate,’” citing an 11th Circuit Court of Appeals case.

In an April 18 telephone interview, SOSS2 attorney West said it is common for cases such as the SOSS2 action to be designated for Track One. Nonetheless, West continued, “If the Corps decides to proceed with construction before the conclusion of the case, we would have to file for emergency injunctive relief.” That would entail an evidentiary hearing, she pointed out, as SOSS2 sought to persuade the judge to issue an order stopping the dredging of Big Pass. Over the past several months, Sarasota City Manager Tom Barwin has written in several of his newsletters that city leaders expect the USACE’s Lido Shoreline Protection Project to begin in the fall.

Following a timeline In regard to the imminent release of the USACE materials for SOSS2’s review, a court document in the case said the nonprofit “will identify and communicate to the Corps any issues regarding completeness of the record and/or any issues regarding the admission of extra record evidence.”

The document also points out that SOSS2 “will provide the Corps with copies of any materials it seeks to include in the administrative record and copies of any materials that it seeks to admit as extra record evidence.”

In the update to supporters that he released on April 18, SOSS2 Chair Van Roekens wrote that the nonprofit would be relying on the assistance of “experts in the relevant fields” to examine all the USACE documents. The USACE essentially has to produce everything upon which it relied in making its case to the FDEP that the state should issue the permit for the removal of sand from Big Pass.

FDEP issued that permit in June 2018.

The USACE’s March 18 motion explained that the USACE and SOSS2 had “conferred and agreed to a proposed schedule for resolving the merits of this case …”

After the document review and SOSS2’s filing of its response, van Roekens pointed out in his April 18 newsletter, “The next major actions will be when we file for summary judgement

by July 1st and when the USACE files their final cross to the summary judgement on October 17th. Then it is in the hands of the judge.”

www.siestasand.net

941.349.0194

MAY 2019

Commentary: Needs and Concerns for 2020 Season

Possible solution In Season and during major events and holidays, the county places a RESTROOM trailer on the Siesta Public Beach parking lot.

Could this be the solution for the Village from January to Easter? The question is where to place a trailer?

No one wants to lose parking spots, but one could be placed in the Municipal Parking Lot. It is close to all the businesses, yet out of site. I can hear the answer already from the county, “Bathrooms are on the wish list. … Right now, there is no identified funding source for that.”

If anyone has an idea how to solve this problem, please email your solution to Islandvp@verizon.net.

39

Continued from cover story

CONCERNS continued: I do not wish to rehash all the worries about density and extra traffic going to and from the Siesta Promenade, EXISTING MERGE LANE TO CONVERT TO RIGHT but rather focus on the proposed stop light and the TURN ONLY FROM SIGNAL TO SIGNAL possible traffic problems this light may have on entering Siesta Key during peak times of the year.

On March 25 at 11:15 a.m. I was driving north on Hwy 41 approaching Stickney Point, attempting to enter the STICKNEY POINT ROAD Key. Traffic at the intersection was partially blocking the northwest corner heading south, so I proceeded north PROPOSED RIGHT IN ONLY PROPOSED PROPOSED RIGHT IN ONLY ACCESS CONNECTION SIGNALIZED to Upper Beachwood. Fortunately, that side street was ACCESS CONNECTION INTERSECTION not totally blocked. Once I approached Stickney Point Road from Beachwood, it was 11:30, so the bridge went up. Care to guess what was happening at Stickney and Attorney Alan Roddy responded.

Hwy 41 at that time?

Herein lies the problem, and this will be the County “It’s a matter of intent,” Maio said, as the Benderson Commissioners’ problem as they take possession from FDOT of representatives, with — as Maio noted — cameras running to the Stickney Point Road from Midnight Pass to Tamiami Trail, record the meeting for county records, told the board “they’re not touching Avenue A.” excluding the bridge.

Roddy suggested that the Avenue A matter be part of the rezoning motion for the project. However, he also advised the Let’s look back on how we got here In a Dec. 19, 2017 email, Nathan Kautz, an FDOT traffic services board first to allow more testimony from Paula Wiggins, the engineer, notified Kimley-Horn employees that they had not county’s Transportation Planning Division manager. proved that a traffic signal would be warranted at the intersection “My only concern,” Wiggins said, “is that Avenue A is a known area of crashes,” and it has been studied by the Florida of Stickney Point Road and Avenue B and C. Kautz added that the median opening at Glencoe Avenue Department of Transportation. “The applicant is not proposing would need to be closed to accommodate traffic headed from the to do anything with that intersection.” east to a northbound queue, “if a signal is warranted.” Further, Yet, she told the board, she did not feel the Avenue A issue Kautz wrote, “How Avenue A will work with the queues at the should be included as a stipulation in the rezoning motion. After the conclusion of a planned “road swap” with FDOT in coming proposed signal should be addressed.”

In a Nov. 6, 2017 email to Kimley-Horn employees, Kautz months, when the county will assume authority over Stickney noted that some of his colleagues had asked for assurance that Point Road, she continued, if crashes continue to occur at Avenue the proposed signal at Stickney Point Road and Avenue B and A, “and we don’t correct the deficiencies there, we would be liable C would not cause westbound traffic queues to back up into the for anything that happens there, knowing that there is an existing problem.” intersection of U.S. 41 and Stickney Point Road.

In a Nov. 17, 2017 letter to Kautz, Christopher Hatton, senior “Now you’ve got that all in the record,” Maio told her. vice president of Kimley-Horn, wrote that the firm’s traffic studies “Staff recognizes that there is a significant issue … for those indicated westbound traffic at the intersection of Stickney Point businesses and residents on the south part of Stickney Point,” Road and Avenue B and C “is not anticipated to back up into the Wiggins responded, adding that staff would come back to the board with any proposals for changes. signal at the intersection of Stickney Point Road & US 41.”

At the Neighborhood Workshop that took place on Aug. 23, Hines could become our hero 2018, one recommendation Benderson has for improving traffic

During the day-long, Dec. 12, 2018 public hearing on the Siesta flow, Mathes said, is for the Florida Department of Transportation (FDOT) to re-time all the signals on the U.S. 41 corridor. He Promenade mixed-use project, Hines at one point said to Todd estimated the number of traffic signals impacted to be between Mathes, director of development for Benderson Development, “If 30 and 50. The department does periodic re-timing, he explained. you don’t build anything, the evidence is absolutely clear: That FDOT has advised county and Benderson staff that it would not intersection is a disaster.” adjust traffic signal timing just to facilitate the flow of vehicles Hines added, “It truly is a public safety problem,” especially associated with Siesta Promenade, if the project is approved and because of the fact that the Stickney Point Road drawbridge can open as often as twice an hour and the four lanes on Stickney constructed.

Point Road drop to two lanes on Midnight Pass Road on Siesta Key. Worries about Avenue A On Dec. 12, 2018 as the Sarasota County commissioners were On Dec. 13, the day after the commissioners approved Siesta taking their votes on the Siesta Promenade project, the issue of Promenade on split votes, Hines sent an email to Paula Wiggins, the proposed closure of the median at the intersection of Avenue County Administrator Jonathan Lewis; and Spencer Anderson, A and Stickney Point Road also arose. That proposal was one of director of the county’s Public Works Department. several included in reports from the Kimley-Horn and Associates “Considering the results of yesterday’s hearing and the consulting firm, which worked with Benderson Development Co. discussion in regards to U.S. 41 and Stickney Point Road,” he wrote, “I really believe it would be worthwhile if we have a on Siesta Promenade.

Commissioner Alan Maio referred to earlier testimony that day serious discussion in regards to our strategy and plans in regards by the Benderson representatives. “The applicant has no intention to this congested area. Much like we did, with great success, with to change the access turn movements in the median for Avenue River Road and the diverging diamond, if we all believe and know that this is an area that’s only going to get worse over the next A.” Therefore, Maio proposed including that as a stipulation in the few years, we need to have a real strategy and plan to address it.” motion to approve the Critical Area Plan for the project.

“I understood it as an expression of intent,” Deputy County I urge Commissioner Hines to figure this out, and soon.

TAMIAMI TRAIL

NEEDS continued: Frescura went on to say, “The sign hanging in front of the chamber’s office says, Siesta Key Chamber of Commerce and Visitors Center.

Visitors assume when they see the Visitors Center sign, there are public restrooms.”

Another business that receives a lot of inquiries is Robin Hood Rentals since they are one of the first businesses visitors pass entering the Village. Owner Mark Toomey said, “When beach goers enter the Village from Beach Access 5, many are looking for a bathroom. I get at least a 100 requests a day in Season.” Due to the frequency of this request many of the businesses in the Village have signs on the doors stating, “No Public Restrooms.”

If the county could address this need, the problem would be where to place them in the Village, along with building the facility under FEMA regulations.

Years ago at the Siesta Key Association’s annual breakfast meeting the subject was brought up for additional restrooms at the beach accesses to County Commissioner Alan Maio.

The very first query fired off to Maio in the Q&A session, handled by then SKA President Michael Shay, focused on the restroom issue. A man in the audience of about 140 people told Maio “those facilities are sorely needed when weddings take place on the northern end of the beach park and at beach access 7.”

“That makes complete sense,” Maio responded.

“How do I argue with that? Here’s the dilemma: FEMA.” Maio was referring to the Federal Emergency Management Agency, which has specific guidelines for how high off the ground the first floor of new construction must stand in a floodplain.

“FEMA’s going to require any restroom structure to be way up in the air,” Maio continued. Add in the necessary ramps to comply with the Americans with Disabilities Act, he added, and “believe me, the cost of pipes and getting sewer there is the least of it.”

If anyone is interested in seeing the type of structure Maio was talking about, take a peek at the public restrooms on Blackburn Point Road prior to entering Casey Key.

Island Visitor Publishing, LLC

40

Siesta Sand

MAY 2019

941.349.0194

www.siestasand.net

Classifieds / Here’s My Card ACCOMMODATIONS / VACATION RENTALS

CONTRACTORS

HOUSE WATCH

• Best Western Plus Siesta Key – AAA -3 Diamond Property, • Hawk’s Nest Construction Inc. is a certified Class A general Free shuttle service to and from Siesta Key 941-924-4900, 6600 S. contractor licensed in all phases of construction. Owner, Mark Tamiami Trl., Sarasota Hawkins Sr. personally oversees every aspect of your project from start to finish, using only the best and most reliable licensed artisan • Siesta 4 Rent - Vacation Rentals, from studios to 5 bedrooms. and craftsmen. His passion is delighting his clients by turning their Serving Siesta Key since 1997, 941-349-5500 home-improvement dreams into a beautiful reality. Call 941-6509499 or visit their website: www.hawksnestconstruction.com

BOATING RENTALS / FISHING CHARTERS

Captain Jacks Yacht Charters

Capt. Jack Wallace 941.320.8700 www.sarasotachartervessel.com Pleasure Cruises only Sunsets/Weddings/Special Occasions Hourly, Daily, Weekly

• Nutter Construction is your local Siesta Key builder. We have a strong team with over 30 years of combined high end residential construction experience in Sarasota and Lakewood Ranch. We offer custom construction, remodeling services, management and consulting, concierge service, and we are committed to protecting our resources by using construction techniques that are environmentally friendly. Call us at 941-924-1868, visit our showroom at 3534 South Osprey Avenue, or check us out online at www.nutterconstruction.com. LEED AP | FL Licensed Building Contractor CBC060004 | FL Licensed Real Estate Sales Associate BK322256 | Certified Home Inspector HI4630

(941) 961-4309

www.SuncoastHomeConcierge.com

JEWELRY

WE BUY!

TURN YOUR

• 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.

Having Fun Fishing in The Sun

Insured, Bonded and Licensed by The National Home Watch Association.

ROLEX

INTO CASH! caratsfjw.com

1922 Bay Rd., Sarasota

Tues - Sat | 941.926.3335

MEDICAL

LANDINGS RESIDENT OWNED AND OPERATED

www.qualitycountscleaning.com

941-400-2452

Tony Fudoli Sr. CAPTAIN tntfreedomfishing@yahoo.com

Veteran Owned Business

Dolphin Watch • SunSetS • half Day aDventure SailS

Carpet, Tile and Upholstery Cleaning • Free Estimates • Satisfaction Guaranteed • Stain Specialists • Chamber of Commerce Members

Serving Manatee and Sarasota Counties Locally Owned and Operated

Sailing From Marina Jack, Sarasota

Kathleen D Sailing Catamaran 941-896-6400

www.KathleenD.net

• Siesta Key Marina Located at 1265 Old Stickney Point Rd, Siesta Key, has been serving Sarasota boaters and fishermen since 1961. A staple in the Sarasota boating community, offering 243 dry storage racks, a full service ship store, onsite boat service, boat rentals, bait, fuel, fishing tackle and more. 941-349-1970

Board-Certified dermatologist skin CanCer • laser • Botox and Hair/nail disorders

941.756.1082 J Morgan O’Donoghue, MD.

1952 Field Road Sarasota, Florida 34231

www.dermatologyexperts.com

941.926.7546

• 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.

DRY CLEANERS MISCELLANEOUS SERVICES

CHURCH SERVICES • WEDNESDAY CHURCH - Traditional worship every Wednesday at 6 PM. Committed to reaching 55+ Widows, Widowers, Veterans, Singles, and Adults.

7811 Kennedy Ln., Sarasota, FL 34240. Pastor Trebor Britt, 941320-4309. SJG5232@verizon.net

CLEANING SERVICES

Green Magic Cleaning Service

“Residential and Commercial”

Environmentally Conscious Laundry and Dry Cleaning Service

Free Pick Up & Delivery Service Call

from your home or business

941-275-4647

ExEcutivE Shirt SErvicE • houSEhold itEmS • SamE day SErvicE availablE

FITNESS

We don’t cut corners, we dust them.

• Hair Love the Salon has filed a fictitious name with the State of Florida, doing business at 3900 Clark Rd H2, In Lakeshore Villages.

A family owned business with 16 years of experience.

• High quality services • Competitive rates • Great references • Always the same crew www.SarasotaHouseCleaningService.com

GreenMagicCleaning@gmail.com Call for a FREE estimate today!

(941) 780-4248

COMMUNITY SERVICE

Join Fit Tribe SRQ every Sat at 9am for fun Group Fitness classes at Siesta Key Beach Main Pavillon.

For more details please see our Facebook page www.facebook.com/FitTribeSRQ

HOUSE WATCH

House Watch Sarasota

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

R. BRuce Whittinghill, llc (941) 955-1864 TO ADVERTISE CALL 941-349-0194

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

MOVING & STORAGE

AAA FLAT RATE MOVING AND STORAGE CO. SARASOTA’S MOVER OF CHOICE SINCE 1980 AROUND THE CORNER OR AROUND THE WORLD CALL OR EMAIL FOR A FREE MOVING ESTIMATE 941-922-4466 / AAAFLATRATE@AOL.COM

www.aaamovingsarasota.com Place your classified ad here for $6.

(15 words) and $.10 for each additional word. Copy must be submitted with payment on or before the 15th of the month prior to publication.

For display ads, please call 941-349-0194 for rates.

www.siestasand.net

941.349.0194

MAY 2019

Island Visitor Publishing, LLC

41

Classifieds / Here’s My Card PAVER CLEANERS

TRANSPORTATION

HOMES FOR SALE

Sarasota’s Premier “Chauffeur”

oak floors and stylish tile will dazzle you. 3 Bedrooms and 3.5 bathrooms along with the lower level bonus area for generational living or guests. Dan Miller, Re/Max Tropical Sands. 941-376-7442

Airport Rides Starting At Only

• ACROSS FROM PUBLIC BEACH: $685,000 1001 Beach Road, Siesta Key, FL., MLS# A4426862 Enjoy views of the beautiful Gulf of Mexico and Siesta Key canals from the 6th floor of your two large terraces All Ports In Florida as well as the downtown Sarasota lights. Generous square Stress Free • Smooth and Easy footage for a beach condo and both bedrooms are of Ask for Eddie generous size. This unit is offered turnkey furnished & tastefully renovated. Dan Miller, Re/Max Tropical Sands.

• Jonny’s Original Free Ride – The Original Ride the Key Free 941-376-7442

30 941.735.4732 $

REAL ESTATE AGENTS

HELENE M. HYLAND REALTOR®

(941) 685-2274 Cell (941) 349-4411 Office (800) 237-9403 Toll Free (941) 349-8090 Fax HeleneHyland@comcast.net

service on Siesta to anywhere, everyday from 10 AM – 2 AM. • CANAL FRONT HOME: $999,000 Driver tips only. Call 941-928-9200.

5157 Sandy Shore Ave, Siesta Key, FL. MLS# A4427877

• Dollar Limo – holds up to 10 people and is cheaper than a D.U.I on a quiet low traffic dead end “Sandy” street. Split plan or taxi. Call 941-735-4732 4 bedroom & 3 bath 2,493 square foot home with recently

941-928-9200

RIDE THE KEY FREE

15-20 MINUTE RESPONSE TIME (Based upon traffic)

5145 Ocean Blvd.

Sarasota, FL 34242 Owned and Operated by NRT, LLC

www.SheSellsSiestaKeySarasota.com

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

SPAS / HAIR & BEAUTY

SERVICING

Siesta Key Beach Siesta Village Turtle Beach

DRIVER TIPS ONLY

Restaurants and Accommodations Operating 10AM to 2AM Daily

www.JonnysOriginalFreeRide.com

Transportation for everyone on the Sun Coast Friendliest Ride In Town

We’ll take you to Doctor Visits, Pharmacies, Shopping, Airports and Cruise Lines (on the East and West coasts) and Much More!

Walk-Ins Welcome

(941) 706-0860

4850 South Tamiami Trail, Sarasota, FL 34231 (The Landings Shopping Center)

Mon.- Sat. 9 AM-7 PM Sun. 11 AM-5 PM

Olde Fashion Barber Shop

Tapers • Flattops • Fades • Styling • Razor Cuts • Shaves

ther”

“Hot La

941-312-6001

Southgate Barber Shop

(Across from the Westfield Siesta Key Mall)

2081 Siesta Drive, Sarasota, FL 34239

Walk-Ins Welcome

Monday through Friday 9-6 • Saturday 9-2

www.OldStyleBarberShop.com

SPORTS RENTALS / ACCESSORIES • Robin Hood Rentals – for all your Siesta Key rental needs with a wide variety segways, bikes, kayaks, scooters and more, free pickup and delivery anywhere on the key. 5255 Ocean Blvd Siesta Key Village. 941-554-4242 • Siesta Key Bike & Kayak – Located on Siesta Key in Capt Curts Village serving Siesta Key, Lido Beach and Sarasota. We offer bikes, kayak rentals, kayak eco tours, paddleboards and scooters.

1224 Old Sickney Pt Rd. 941-346-0891 • Siesta Sports Rentals – Located on Siesta Key, bike, kayak, kayak tours, scooter, children strollers and car seats. Delivery and pickup available, 6551 Midnight Pass Rd, 941-346-1797

Place your classified ad here for $6.

(15 words) and $.10 for each additional word. Copy must be submitted with payment on or before the 15th of the month prior to publication.

For display ads, please call 941-349-0194 for rates.

• SARA SANDS - Outdoor living at its best-located at the end of a canal with a great water view, dock with lift, Tiki hut, beautiful pool, outdoor fireplace, a huge screened lanai. 3/2 remodeled and furnished ranch home at the north end of Siesta Key. Easy bike to the Village and Beach. RV parking. If you enjoy entertaining, this is the one! MLS# A4415047, $989,500. Key Solutions Real Estate Group, Sheri & Bob Ruiz Bob: 941-544-3299 or Sheri: 941400-4186.

• THE POINTE - Penthouse! 1/1 at the southernmost end of Siesta Key. Incredible 270 degree views of the Gulf and Bay. Large lanai. Plentiful storage in the unit and on the first floor. Convenient underbuilding parking. Gated community with boat docks, kayak racks and dock, tennis, pool, spa, sauna, beautiful clubhouse, island gazebo with grilling, and more. MLS# A4401699, $349,999. Key Solutions Real Estate Group, Sheri & Bob Ruiz. Bob: 941544-3299 or Sheri: 941-400-4186.

• THE POINTE - Renovated 2/2 penthouse with magnificent views. North to downtown Sarasota and South to Casey Key. See beautiful Neville Preserve and Little Sarasota Bay to the East and the Gulf of Mexico with Siesta’s amazing sunsets to the West. Underbuilding parking. Sold furnished. MLS# A4406101, $499,000. Key Solutions Real Estate Group, Sheri & Bob Ruiz. Bob: 941544-3299 or Sheri: 941-400-4186.

Specializing in Pink & White

GRAND OPENING

updated kitchen & bath. PGT Wind Guard Hurricane Impact windows and sliders for added storm security. You will love lounging around the large pool on this oversized lot (14,352 SF) and dock with lift on the wide canal with easy access to world class boating & fishing. Dan Miller, Re/Max Tropical Sands. 941-376-7442

• THE POINTE - Beautifully renovated and furnished move right in to this lovely 5th floor 2 bedroom 2 bath unit with incredible 270 degree views. Tile throughout. New kitchen and contemporary baths, trey ceilings and recessed lighting, Southern end of Siesta. Walk to Turtle Beach and three restaurants. Gated community with every amenity.

HOMES FOR SALE MLS# 4427052. $565,000. Key Solutions Real Estate Group, • CO-OP OPPORTUNITY NEAR SIESTA KEY: Sheri & Bob Ruiz. Bob: 941-544-3299 or Sheri: 941-400-4186. $105,500. Mobile Estates is a resident owned 55 plus community located in a prime location one mile from Siesta • SARASOTA BEACH - Live your vacation in this Key in Sarasota. This home has been meticulously restored. stunning 4 bedroom 3.5 bath property with boat dock A beautiful single wide mobile home with one large and 10 lift. Walking distance to Siesta Beach and Village bedroom and one bath with a large attached lanai and shed. and a quick boat ride to the Gulf. Totally and exquisitely Maintenance fee $160 month. Website: 2042champion.site renovated. Wrap-around porches on two levels. Pool in fenced back yard. RV parking. MLS# A4418533, $1,299,000. for more info. Call Scott 215-266-0402.

Key Solutions Real Estate Group, Sheri & Bob Ruiz. Bob: • SHORT WALK TO SIESTA BEACH: $429,900 941-544-3299 or Sheri: 941-400-4186.

195 Vista Hermosa Circle, #9-A, Siesta Key, FL. MLS# A4189942 beautifully remodeled, 2 BR, 2 BA villa. Designer • HARBOUR TOWNE YACHT CLUB - Easy walking tile & carpet throughout. This villa is being sold turnkey distance to Siesta Beach with a private deeded boat dock furnished (with some exclusions). Dan Miller, Re/Max with lift and water views! Two bedroom, two bath with Tropical Sands. 941-376-7442 large glassed lanai overlooking marina. One car garage • FULL GULF VIEW OF #1 BEACH: $499,900 797 Beach Rd, #305, Siesta Key, FL. MLS# A4188853 Completely remodeled unit with high end tile floors in main living area, quality custom kitchen cabinets with granite counters. All the lighting has been upgraded throughout this TURNKEY FURNISHED (some artwork excluded) unit. Dan Miller, Re/Max Tropical Sands. 941376-7442

with attic storage. Gated community on a deep-water marina. Pool, hot tub, tennis/pickleball, clubhouse. MLS# A4422616, $569,000.00 Key Solutions Real Estate Group, Sheri & Bob Ruiz Bob: 941-544-3299 or Sheri: 941-400-4186.

• SOMERSET COVE - Minutes to Siesta Beach and Village. 2757 square feet of luxury. 4 bedrooms, 3 ½ baths with den, bonus space, elevator, 2 car garage. Deeded 35’ dock with 20k lift. Gated community with resort pool. MLS • PALM ISLAND HOME ON THE GRAND CANAL: # A4425546 $849,000. Key Solutions Real Estate Group, $875,000. 322 Island Circle, Siesta Key, FL. MLS# A4199085 Sheri & Bob Ruiz Bob: 941-544-3299 or Sheri: 941-400-4186.

Recently renovated with new kitchen, new master BR and master BA. This house boasts a new boat lift on the Grand • SIESTA COVE - Stunning enclave just minutes to Canal. Privacy abounds with a lovely tropical view across Siesta Beach & Village. Totally and beautifully renovated the canal. Huge bonus area on lower level. Dan Miller, Re/ 3 bedroom 2 1/2 bath with 2 car garage. Amazing outdoor Max Tropical Sands. 941-376-7442 living with multiple balconies, decks and patio. Fenced.

Huge lawn for play or pool. MLS #A4426343 $748,500. Key • DEEDED BEACH ACCESS: $875,000 1122 Horizon View Drive, Siesta Key, FL., MLS# Solutions Real Estate Group, Sheri & Bob Ruiz Bob: 941A4420716. This is one of the closest properties to the beach 544-3299 or Sheri: 941-400-4186. without having the direct beachfront price on a street of Continued on page 42 multi-million dollar properties. This immaculate pool home features large rooms and volume ceilings. Lovely

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HOMES FOR SALE • HARBOUR TOWNE YACHT CLUB - Across the street from Siesta Beach with a private deeded boat dock and water views! Renovated two bedroom, two bath. One car garage with attic storage. Gated community on a deepwater marina. Pool, hot tub, tennis/pickleball, clubhouse.

MLS# A4433033, $539,000.00 Key Solutions Real Estate Group, Sheri & Bob Ruiz Bob: 941-544-3299 or Sheri: 941400-4186.

Continued from page 45

• GORGEOUS WATER VIEWS Deeded BOAT SLIP (boat up to 45’ length) come with this TURNKEY FURNISHED 3/3 townhouse that shows like a model home. This rarely available unit features TWO FULL MASTER SUITES, loft/media area, and oversized guest bedroom the list goes on. 1215 DOCKSIDE PL, #204, SARASOTA, FL 34242, MLS#A4215997, $899,000, Key Solutions Real Estate, 941- 894-1255.

• TRULY FABULOUS 2/2 WITH PRIVATE BEACH ACCESS. Completely renovated TOP FLOOR END UNIT with exquisite finishes and furnishings the unit is being sold, turnkey. The open floor plan with SOARING CEILINGS features a huge living room with views of the ICW and Bay. This is truly a must-see. 6285 MIDNIGHT PASS RD, #307, SARASOTA, FL 34242, MLS#A4410196, $725,000, Key Solutions Real Estate, 941- 894-1255.

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• YEAR ROUND SUNSETS! This 10th-floor unit is perfectly positioned to enjoy gorgeous beachfront views!

A very spacious, light, bright, clean and cared-for condo with a split floor plan and walk-in closets. The hurricane impact sliding doors (replaced 2018) lead from the living room and bedrooms to the huge screened lanai. Furniture is negotiable. 6300 MIDNIGHT PASS RD, #1009, SARASOTA, FL 34242, MLS# A4425862, $1,030,000, Key Solutions Real Estate, 941-894-1255

• ENJOY STUNNING SUNRISES AND SUNSETS from this lovely two bedroom, two bath PENTHOUSE condo at the southernmost end of Siesta Key. If you seek incomparable views look no further - wake to aweinspiring sunrises over Neville Preserve on Little Sarasota Bay and marvel at the spectacular sunsets over the Gulf of Mexico. 9393 MIDNIGHT PASS RD, #P2, SARASOTA, FL 34242, MLS# A4406101, $569,000, Key Solutions Real Estate, 941- 894-1255.

IMPORTANT NUMBERS Emergency (General)..................................................... 911 Emergency Animal Clinic.............................941-929-1818 Fishing & Hunting Licenses.........................941-362-9888 FPL – Florida Power & Light........................941-917-0708 FPL – Outage Report................................. 1-800-468-8243 Marriage License Bureau..............................941-362-4066 Poison Info Center..................................... 1-800-282-3171

Looking for Siesta Sand off-island?

Pick up a copy at the following locations:

4&20 Pasty Co.......................................................................................5638 Swift Rd. A’s Sandwich...........................................................................6300 S. Tamiami Trail Abel’s Ice Cream: Southbridge Plaza................................... 1886 Stickney Pt. Rd. Alpine Steak House................................................................4520 S. Tamiami Trail Best Western Plus....................................................................6600 S. Tamiami Trail Casey Key Fish House................................................801 Blackburn Point, Osprey

Sarasota / Bradenton Intl. Airport..............941-359-2770

Corkscrew Deli: Landings Shopping Plaza * ...................4982 S. Tamiami Trail

Sarasota County Area Transit (SCAT)........941-316-1234

Culver’s.....................................................................................7520 S. Tamiami Trail

Siesta Key Chamber of Commerce..............941-349-3800

Dutch Valley Restaurant.......................................................6721 S. Tamiami Trail

Sheriff / non-emergency..............................941- 861-1601 Waste Management.......................................941-924-1254

nerWord Search

Answers to the WORD SEARCH found on page 33 www.TheMariner.com

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Eager Beaver Carwash *.........................................................6449 S. Tamiami Trail Economy Tackle *....................................................................6018 S. Tamiami Trail Fresh Catch Market & Grill: Buccaneer Plaza...................7119 S. Tamiami Trail Gecko’s Restaurant.................................................................6606 S. Tamiami Trail Grasshopper Mexican Restaurant & Bar............................7253 S. Tamiami Trail Gulf Gate Food + Beer............................................................... 6528 Superior Ave. Hibiscus Suites.....................................................................1735 Stickney Point Rd.

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McDonalds................................................................................6347 S Tamiami Trail Philadelphia Cheesesteaks....................................................7523 S. Tamiami Trail Phillippi Creek Oyster Bar....................................................5353 S. Tamiami Trail Plaza Mexico Restaurant: Southbridge Plaza.................1894 Stickney Point Rd. Pride of the South Restaurant/GG........................................... 6616 Superior Ave. Rico’s Pizzeria & Pasta House............................................................. 1902 Bay Rd. Sarasota Brewing /GG................................................................ 6607 Gateway Ave. Solorzano’s Pizza /GG................................................................ 6670 Superior Ave. Special Nutrition Store: Southbridge Plaza........................ 1882 Stickney Pt. Rd. The Shop SRQ/GG..................................................................... 6625 Gateway Ave. Tony’s Chicago Dogs/GG.......................................................... 6569 Superior Ave. Word of Mouth/GG.................................................................... 6604 Gateway Ave. Interested in Distributing our Publication? Call 941-349-0194 NOTE: * Denotes availability first week of each month only.

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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

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.

DISCLAIMER: Please be aware that when you hire an unlicensed/uninsured person to do work at your home, you accept the liability. Island Visitor Publishing is not responsible for claims made by advertisers.

P.O. BOX 35086, SIESTA KEY, FL 34242 www.siestasand.net

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941.349.0194

MAY 2019

Island Visitor Publishing, LLC

Leah and parents, Rich & Deb from Lancaster, PA. Photo Submitted by Aledia Tush / CB’s Saltwater Outfitters

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MAY 2019

Island Girl

941.349.0194

Sydney This month’s Island Girl is Sydney.

Sydney participated in Gilligan’s Island Bar Spring Break Bikini contest.

“I love lifting weights and spending time with those I love.”

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)

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