IV Siesta Sand - May 2015

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

ARTIST OF THE MONTH

Concerns mount over Big Pass dredging

By Roger Drouin

|FDEP says Corps permit is incomplete

Jewelry designer Diana Kahlenberg works from her gulf front home on Siesta Key

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SAND CASTLES

The planned South Siesta Beach Renourishment and the Lido Beach Renourishment are similar, in terms of the amount of sand included in the projects.

But the similarities end there.

The Lido Beach Renourishment involves additional elements— including the installation of at least two rock groins on Lido’s shoreline and the removal of 1.3 million cubic yards of sand from Big Pass, which has never been dredged before—and, as a result, critics worry about the greater chance of unintended down drift impacts. Sand for the proposed South Siesta project, meanwhile, would be mined from submerged offshore deposits seven to nine miles offshore, and no groins are planned as part of that project.

U.S. Army Corps of Engineers officials say they can’t find compatible sand that matches Lido Beach—except in Big Pass—

and so the Corps is pushing ahead with permitting for its $19 million plan to buffer the beach.

At a packed, and at times tense, meeting last month, agency officials continued to defend the Lido project.

At the April 15 meeting, Project Manager Milan Mora and other Army Corps’ officials presented a second agencyconducted study they are using to conclude there is no evidence that dredging the sand from the pass would negatively change the shoal, alter wave action or sediment transport to Siesta Key. A few weeks earlier the agency also released its redesign of the project, removing the third groin from initial construction— although the additional groin could be added at any time, under the current proposal.

Despite the Army Corps’ redesigned plan for its Lido

Beach Road plans to appear back before County Commission Preventative maintenance and stable ownership keep Terrace East in top shape

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FEATURED MUSICIAN

An interview with Frankie Catalina.

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WATER WORLD

By Roger Drouin The property at 162 Beach Road, owned by Ronald and Sania Allen, is located waterward of the Coastal Setback Line, and has historically flooded during past decades.

More recently, Ronald and Sania Allen have been trying to build a home at 162 Beach Road, but those plans in 2013 and 2014 were turned down by county commissioners.

The property owners will now have another shot.

Following a nine-month, mediation-led appeal process, a new Coastal Setback Variance request will be appearing before the County Commission. And, once again, commissioners will grapple with the question of whether to allow the property owners to build, or not, at the 7,429-square-foot property.

At their March 31 regular meeting, commissioners gave the go-ahead for a public hearing on yet-again-revised construction

plans, although a date has not been determined for the public hearing. The vote was 4-1, with Commissioner Charles Hines casting the lone No vote.

The upcoming hearing will be the fourth time the County Commission considers a residential project at the address.

Over the past nine months, 162 Beach Road was at the center of a special-magistratemediated effort between county legal staff and the Allens, who had appealed the 2014 rejection of their request for a Coastal Setback Variance. Their request for relief was filed under a state provision called the Florida Land Use Environmental Dispute Regulation Act. (FLUEDRA).

At the March 31 meeting, County Attorney Steve DeMarsh and Assistant County Attorney David Pearce presented the findings of Carlos Alvarez, the appointed mediator in the case.

Continued on page 37

Army Corps officials presented details of the Lido Beach Storm Reduction Project at a packed meeting April 15. Photo by Roger Drouin.

Beach Storm Reduction Project and its reassurances, several groups are concerned about the complex project and what it could do to the coastal region.

Boaters are worried about navigation. Residents on Siesta are worried about the down drift impacts on the Key. And

environmentalists are worried about what impacts the changes will bring to a fragile ecosystem.

As the Army Corps applies for its permit with the Florida Department of Environmental Protection, those critical of the project continue to voice their concerns.

Continued on page 35

Be informed, Big Pass Dredging meetings Independent Coastal Engineering Review The Siesta Key Association’s featured speakers for the May 7th monthly meeting will be from Sarasota County. The guest speakers will provide an overview of the Independent Coastal Engineering Review.

The Peer Review was requested by residents and the Board of County Commissioners to assess any impact of the Army Corp of Engineers design on Big Sarasota Pass and barrier island shoreline.

The meeting will be held at St. Boniface Church on Siesta Key Thursday May 7th at 4:30 pm in Room F.

Special panel provides insight The Siesta Key Chamber of Commerce, Siesta Key Village Association, Siesta Key Association, and the Siesta Key Condo Council will host a public meeting on

Monday, May 11, from 5:30 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. at St. Boniface Episcopal Church, 5615 Midnight Pass Rd., in the community room.

The four organizations are sponsoring the public meeting to further discuss the proposed dredging of the Big Pass Shoal.

Information will be provided by a panel with some speakers focusing on the potential impact to Siesta Key and Big Pass. Speakers include Rob Patten, President of Coastal Dunes, Inc.; Jono Miller, Charter Fellow of the Florida Natural Resource Leadership Institute; Robert Young, Ph.D., Western Carolina University, Program Director for the Study of Developed Shorelines & Professor of Coastal Geology; Peter van Roekens, Navigation, Chairman of SOSS2, Inc.; Laird Wreford, Coastal Resources Manager of Sarasota County Government.

See what your neighbors and local Siesta Key businesses have to say about this project on our new Sand Scripts Opinion/Letters to the Editor, Page 34.

LOCAL MAPS & INFORMATION

See Page 19

Abel’s Ice Cream Offers Stonewood Grill Certificate

Birds of Siesta Key Beach.

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NOTES FROM THE ISLAND FISHMONGER..................28 CAPTAIN KLOPFER FISHING REPORT.............................28

Visit Abel’s Ice Cream to receive a Stonewood Grill certificate valid for a FREE signature Bruschetta appetizer with the purchase of two adult entrees. This offer is valid only at the Stickney Point location for the month of May 2015. Complete details of this Stonewood Grill offer are listed on the certificate.

Before you leave, be sure to check out the large selection of ice cream flavors Abel’s offers. There are a couple of no-sugar added flavors, Moose Tracks (reduced fat vanilla swirled with fudge & mini chocolate covered peanut butter cups) and Butter Pecan (only 5 grams of sugar in a 4 oz. serving). An offering of two frozen yogurt flavors, To Die For (chocolate with chocolate fudge and chocolate chips) and Vanilla Raspberry Chip (vanilla

with raspberry ribbon and chocolate chips), a non-dairy flavor, a couple of sherbets and several gluten free flavors are also available.

You’ll find several very unique flavors at Abel’s. For chocolate lovers they offer a flavor named Bear Claw (dark intense chocolate ice cream with thick caramel weave & chocolate covered cashews). For those who crave peanut butter, Elephant Ears (vanilla ice cream with real peanut butter weave & chocolate chips) is a must try. Snickerlicious (candy bar flavored ice cream with snickers candy bar pieces & thick caramel weave) is like eating a candy bar in the form of ice cream.

Their facility is modern, squeaky clean and has comfortable seating for 24. Abel’s is rated the #1 Sarasota Florida Ice Cream

shop of 24 shops listed on Trip Advisor.

To learn more and get directions, visit: www.ABELSICECREAM.com or visit Trip Advisor, Sarasota Florida ice cream. They are located at 1886 Stickney Point Road, 941-9215700.

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Siesta Sand

May 2015

941.349.0194 www.siestasand.net

Siesta Key Round-Up

By Bob Stein County awaits Turtle Beach funding

The South Siesta Beach Renourishment could be in jeopardy if state funding does not come through this year. The renourishment project, which includes Turtle Beach, is included in the county’s five-year Capital Improvements Program. According to Sarasota County, possible funding for the $19.9-million project will and Kids come from Tourist Development Tax dollars, state beach funds, Stuff commercial financing, along with MSBU (property assessed annual fees paid by property owners near the renourishment).

The state funding is a key element. At the April Siesta Key Association meeting, where County Deck Deck Boats Boats •• Pontoon Pontoon Boats Boats •• Runabouts Runabouts Commissioner Hines was the guest speaker, the commissioner said this regarding Turtle Beach’s renourishment; “If we don’t get state money this year, Turtle Beach www.CBsOutfitters.com • Since 1959 probably won’t happen.”

Open 7 Days 7am-6pm 1249 Stickney Point Rd. Siesta Key County officials in March revealed some other news about the project when they let residents know the March 20 start date for the project had been delayed to November, because of the presence of the Rufa Red Knot, a threatened species protected by the Endangered Species Act in 2014.

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Sarasota County Tourist Development Tax (TDT) If you thought it was busier than the normal February, you were correct. In February of this year, Siesta Key rang up $811,159., in TDT collections for the county.

That is 34.4% of the total amount collected for the month; an increase of almost 3%.

Intersection Midnight Pass Road and Beach Road FDOT reports that they received 92 comments back after the open meeting at St. Boniface Church.

FDOT will move forward with a direct mailing on the Key for more feedback and set up another workshop prior to their decision to determine which proposal they will adopt. The decision is expected by this summer. At the time of this writing, no date was set for the upcoming workshop.

At the April Siesta Key Village Association meeting Michael Shay, President of SKA, brought up the possibility of establishing regulations for the free cab services on the Key. His concern came in light of an incident that occurred in April, on the Key, where a Pedi-cab driver was arrested for passing counterfeit bills and for not registering with Sarasota County as a convicted sex-offender from Texas. The County currently has no regulations regarding these

of this problem and contacted County Commissioner Maio to voice his concerns.

“The swimming pool that is on the property is not enclosed in a cage and is full of black water.

There is a wooden 2” x 4” frame covering the pool, but this will not prevent anyone, especially a child, from falling in and drowning,” said Michael.

Shay continued, “While I understand that the County inspected the property and is not able to condemn it, I would hope that the County has recourse to force the bank to correct this safety issue and to help protect the property values of the neighboring home owners by swiftly disposing of this property.”

Siesta Beach Amateur Sand Sculpting Contest – May 2, 8:30AM The 43rd Annual Sand Sculpting Contest will take place on Siesta Key Public beach, the first Saturday in May as it has since its inception.

Continued on page 4

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businesses.

Eye sore on the Key A bank-owned property located at 722 Siesta Key Circle on Siesta Key has become an eyesore and possible safety hazard for neighbors. The boarded up waterfront property sits in the middle of a well maintained residential community of private homes.

Michael Shay, president of the Siesta Key Association was notified

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Siesta Key to Celebrate 25th Fireworks Anniversary As the Siesta Key Chamber of Commerce prepares for this annual event, they will be including a special guest this year to help celebrate its 25th anniversary.

Her name is Cheryl Dooley, the historian for the 4th of July Community Fireworks, and the original coordinator for the first fireworks display. “We are pleased that Cheryl will ‘do the plunger’ in honor of her service 25 years ago,” stated Debra-Lynn Schmitz Executive Director of the Siesta Key Chamber of Commerce.

Enterprise, a long-time resident of Sarasota was the pyrotechnic for the first 10 years. My dear friends Sharon Cunningham, Aledia Tush and Ann Johnson were wonderful supporters, along with many of my friends, family and volunteers.

Currently, Zambelli Fireworks has taken over this honor.

Q: How did you fund the initial Fireworks display?

A: Since it was the first year, we couldn’t just contact last year’s sponsors so I began campaigning all the businesses and residents on and off the island. It was tough the first year but with the support of the community we made it work.

The greatest expense was the water barge the County required for the pyrotechnic. After the first year, the County allowed the fireworks to be shot from the beach with security measures. This helped tremendously with the costs incurred.

The barge, the fireworks, security and food were the main expenses that first year. The barge fees were raised by BBQ’s out East, garage sales and friend drives; the fireworks were provided by Nova Cheryl Dooley Enterprise. Security and food were funded and served by Cheryl and Here’s a look back at how this friends of Siesta Key. After the tradition began in our Q&A with first 10 years of BBQ’s out East, Cheryl.

Mattison’s and Ophelia’s stepped in and took over the food part of Q: What initially spurred the the party. interest for a 4th of July Community Cheryl was very proud to say in her time coordinating the Fireworks Event on Siesta Key? A: Initially, we felt a need to Fireworks, they were never rained honor the men and women who out. served in Desert Storm. Downtown Sarasota was the only group at Q: What’s your best memory of that time with an annual fireworks the first fireworks display? show; however, there was always a A: During the Fireworks display, concern for how it would be funded. a young Hispanic family with small Siesta Key knew they could find children were watching the show. benefactors who would eventually They had their American flags see the need for a patriotic event and were saying we love America!

Thank God for the fireworks! honoring our freedom.

members in the 70’s. Then in the 90’s I was on the Board and became Board President for a few years.

Q: What did the Siesta Key Chamber of Commerce look like 25 years ago?

A: The Chamber was more of a social club than a business club.

I had a new vision when I entered the Chamber Board which included communications with local zoning authorities, school board discussions, Commissioner Meetings and governing committees, liaison with the Sheriff Department and advocate for economic development and a voice for Key businesses. We did continue the social aspect with local business card exchanges to encourage B2B reciprocations.

The Chamber was initially run by volunteers. Eventually, we had two part-time employees as we gained members. Our 1st Chamber office was located off the Key on Stickney Point Road inside the Stevens & Salt Inc. Real Estate office. The 2nd Chamber office was located on the corner of Mir Mar & Ocean Blvd and then finally they gained their own office space. At that time, we were mailing out many New Residence Packets and kept a last minute accommodation locations list for traveling tourists.

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Q: What were the Chamber issues?

A: Siesta then was zoned for 63 units per acre for condominium development. During my Chair, we had this changed to 5 units per acre and eventually worked on the Q: Who initially participated in Q : W e r e y o u a C h a m b e r overlay district when Troy Sypress the first Fireworks display? member? was on the Board.

A: Carlos Giordano of Nova A: Yes, my family became

Fourth of July Fireworks Celebration Q: Did you own a business on the island?

A: Yes, my family owned the Hardware Store on Siesta Key for 32 years (1973 – 2005). You can still find the Hardware Store sitting at its same location today.

Q: What did Siesta Key look like 25 years ago?

A: Siesta Key was known as an artist/writer enclave. The Village was full of beach cottages and antique and clothing shops. There were no mcmansions at that time.

Many of the local businesses were family run and the streets rolled up at dark.

Q: Who else would be Historians for the Chamber of Commerce and Siesta Key?

A: Sharon Cunningham of Cunningham Property Management, Aledia Tush of CB’s Saltwater Outfitters, Ann Johnson formerly of the Pelican Press.

Come join the Celebration, July 4th VIP Party – Open to the public – Limited space, $150 provides donor with reserved parking at Siesta Key Public Beach and entrance for 2 to the catered picnic; food, beer, wine, soft drinks and live entertainment by Ted Stevens & the Doo Shots. New this year – KID ZONE! Contact Terri Schubel, Volunteers, Events and Marketing Manager at the Siesta Key Chamber of Commerce: 941-349-4800.

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Siesta Sand

May 2015

Siesta Key Round-Up Children and adults will compete in various categories for cash prizes. The event is free and is offered in partnership by Sarasota County and the Observer Media Group. Test your sculpting skills against other aspiring artists.

Registration begins at 830AM, with sculpting lasting until 1PM. Prizes awarded for the best sculptures in categories, including People’s Choice. For additional details, call 941-915-1184.

Work continues for the Siesta Beach Project

The Beach Ambassador located at the Historic Pavilion will be moving to the New East Concession Stand sometime in mid to late May. The temporary move allows the contractor to start work on the pavilion in the last phase of the Siesta Public Beach improvements project slated to be completed by the end of this year. The Sheriff’s office will be located in a trailer on the parking lot until the new office is completed at the Historic Pavilion.

941.349.0194 www.siestasand.net Continued from page 2

One of the trailers in the parking lot is a portable restroom until the new bathrooms are built. Yes ladies they are adding more toilets just for you.

Dig the Beach Volleyball Tournament – May 16 & 17, 8:30AM

Dig the Beach Series is the longest standing and largest series of its kind in the United States. The Dig the Beach Volleyball Series is the most established and successful grassroots series of its kind. Since 1992 they have catered to both professional and amateur players and have graduated some of the top professionals on the Domestic & World Tours. Each tournament features 2 person teams in Adult & Juniors divisions. To register or for additional information, go to: www. digthebeach.com

New location coming for “A Taste of Germany”

A Taste of Germany, currently located in Siesta Key Village, will be relocating to the southern part

of Siesta Key inside the courtyard of the Southbridge Mall, between Siesta 4-Rent and Davidson’s Drugs, 6575 Midnight Pass Road, units 11-13. Their Village location will close mid-May and they hope to be open for business in their new digs by June 1. “This move allows us to create a ‘Bier Garten’ in the courtyard so patrons can enjoy a cold German beer along with our authentic German sandwiches, entrees and desserts,” said owner, Tanja Hofmann. “We’ve been wanting to add a ‘Bier Garten’ and this move provides the room we’ll need to make that happen.”

Inside dining will be available as well.

Auf Ihre Gesundheit Tanja, Manuel and Robin.

AARP loves Siesta Key Beach

Siesta Key receives one award after another. After receiving the top spot in the 2015 Travelers’ Choice Award for the best U.S. beach from TripAdvisor, AARP has listed Siesta

Key a must visit destination. Siesta was listed as the top beach of its 12 beaches to visit in 2015.

Author Eva Dasher wrote: “Wide expanses of powdery sand and emerald Gulf of Mexico waters attracts flocks of families as well as couples looking for a romantic getaway. After a day of shell collecting and kayaking, relax in the adjacent village that’s chock-full of eateries and shops.”

As Stewards of this island gem, let’s all work together to make sure future generations can enjoy what we have today.

Stickney Point Bridge repairs schedule

The Florida Department of Transportation (FDOT) along with its contractor, Coastal Marine Construction Inc., began making improvements to the Stickney Point Bridge in mid-April. Built in 1968, the Stickney Point Bridge is approaching the end of its original service life. While the bridge remains safe to traffic, repairs are

necessary to extend the service life of the bridge another 10 years until a long-term solution is determined.

Completion of the $5.3 million repair project is expected in early 2016.

During construction, traffic will be shifted overnight to one bridge between 9 p.m. and 6 a.m. while crews work on the other bridge.

This will continue each night until repairs are complete. Additionally, extended bridge openings of up to 15 minutes will occur overnight while construction is underway.

Bridge repairs include: Concrete repairs throughout the bridge, Seawall repairs, Improvements to the Control/Bridge Tender House, Painting, Mechanical and electrical component repairs, Bridge deck and grating repairs and Sidewalk improvements. For additional information please contact Lauren Hatchell, Public Information Officer 941-359-7359 or Robin Stublen, FDOT Public Information 863-5192828 Continued on page 6

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May 2015

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Village Market Closing Paves way for Morton’s Market Key Debut By Robert Frederickson News over the past few weeks that the Siesta Market would soon be closing hit many on the island like the loss of an old family friend.

Known for its well stocked deli (the chicken salad has a well-deserved local following), fresh produce (especially the tomatoes) and its quick in-andout convenience for traffic weary islanders looking to avoid a trip over the bridge, many found it hard to imagine the Village without the market that in one form or another has been right there at the center of all things Siesta for over forty-four years.

Brothers Vincent and Peter Messina have operated the store for the past 14 years, but have decided the time is now right to retire. They still own a quick stop on North Orange Avenue in Sarasota where any remaining inventory will likely be moved after the closing this month. But they’ve determined it’s time to turn the page on their Siesta location.

Property owner Chris Brown’s phone had been ringing off the hook after word got out, with calls from reporters and concerned island residents wanting to know what would be replacing the popular food market after the Messinas closed up shop.

A CVS? A Wal-Mart? A Wawa?

A strip club?

Rumors flew up and down the Island telegraph.

Brown patiently reassured everyone that no such plans were in the works. From the start he signaled that he and his partner Mike Grathon were looking for another grocer to fill the space.

The two purchased the building and property last fall for a reported $2.8 million.

Brown told the Siesta Sand before the Morton’s news broke, “we’re not going to put anything in that’s not a good fit for the Key. A big box store just wouldn’t work. Another food market would be ideal.”

Local management was also high on Brown’s list from the start, indicating he would clearly prefer a local family operation along the lines of Morton’s or the Crescent Beach Grocery on the southern end of the key, run by the Morton and Connelly families, respectively, both with deep and long established local roots.

Brown even mentioned the

Jeanetta with Dickie Smothers.

Jeanetta Tolar has worked at the Siesta Market location for just shy of 40 years.

possibility of opening a small grocery on the site himself if an interested local lessee with a grocery background wasn’t found.

“There are plenty of consultants that could (have helped us) work out that kind of plan,” he said.

Now, with the news that Morton’s will be the new tenant, speculation has shifted to just how the new location will differ from or resemble the store’s existing location in Southside Village on the mainland. The “gourmet” niche the Morton family has cultivated over the years has served the family well and been popular with local grocery shoppers; but that upscale niche (which features an extensive inventory of wines) is somewhat at odds with the funky, throwback feel of the existing Siesta Market that has endeared it to so many residents of the Key. Beyond the retro-vibe, the fresh tomatoes and the chicken salad, there has always been an easy familiarity about the place. Long time employees like Jeannetta Tolar, 77, treat customers like family, greeting many by name with a cheerful, “How’re you doing today?” (and actually expecting an answer) as they walk through the door.

If the Messinas had held on a bit longer, Tolar would have made it to her 40th anniversary working at the store. “I started in the summer of 1975,” she said while sipping a coke at the Village Cafe recently. “I had been a housewife and mother, but had just gone through a divorce and needed a job. I heard they had an opening from a friend who knew someone working there and decided to give it a shot.”

At that time, Ron and Marsha Lewis owned the store, having purchased it a few months prior.

Some recall the original store being a SupeRx, which was a store brand of The Kroger Company, used by the company throughout Florida in the 1960s and 1970s.

When asked if she ever thought she’d be there for 40 years, she laughs, saying, “No way! But I liked it. And I guess they liked me.”

Her favorite part of the job? “Oh that’s easy,” she says. “The people.

I’ve seen so many kids grow up out here, have kids of their own and I’ve seen them grow up too. I’ll miss seeing all the people I’ve met here.”

That list includes a few celebrities too.

“Geraldo (Rivera) was in last week,” she says. “And I have a picture with Dickie Smothers when he came in…and there’s that lady doctor? What’s her name..? She was on TV...” She pauses in thought, taking another sip of her Coke.

“Dr. Joyce Brothers!” she finally says as the name comes to her.

What about the parts of the job that haven’t been so great?

“Well we were robbed once,” she says. “One of the other cashiers was counting money out in the open and when she finished she reached over to hand it to me and a young guy standing there saw it, pulled a knife and said ‘give it to me.’ ” (She did...saying the perp quickly ran out of the store and was never caught).

Another less than ideal part of the job? The traffic. “I’ve lived in the same house since I was four,” she explains. “The drive to work has always been the same, but every year it takes longer to get here.”

Unlike the Messinas, Tolar has no desire or plans to retire.

“I want to work,” she says, adding that maybe she can find a job at the new Wal-Mart near her home on the mainland…or at the recently opened Detwiler’s Farm Market on University Parkway.

But Tolar’s heart remains on the Key, and in late-breaking news, that’s where it appears she will be staying.

Perhaps wanting to add a bit of that easy familiarity Siesta Key is known for to their upscale image, the Mortons decided last week to offer Tolar a position at their new location.

A good sign, no?

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Siesta Sand

May 2015

941.349.0194 www.siestasand.net

Siesta Key Round-Up

Continued from page 4

Siesta Key occupancy statistics

There are 7,468 mailing addresses (residential only) on the Key. About 43% are active year round. First uptick in counts go up mid-October 15%, next uptick is after January 1st, another 15%, than full blown in mid-February. The Key runs at 98% total occupancy with residents, full, part-time and vacationers from around mid-February to the 1st week of April or until Easter. Second Season for Siesta Key is mid-June until the beginning of the 2nd week of August.

On March 30, at 5:20 a.m., a driver drove right into the front of the 7-11 building located in Siesta Key Village. This was a regular elderly customer that comes in almost daily. He accidently stepped on the gas instead of the brake. Alcohol was not involved and thankfully no one was hurt.

Easter Egg Hunt huge success

The Siesta Key Village annual Easter Egg Hunt that was held on Saturday April 4th drew over 160 children with over 70 children ages one to one and half years old.

Siesta Key Chamber of Commerce still needs help

The Siesta Key Chamber of Commerce is in need of volunteers in their Visitor Center. As a volunteer you will have fun helping visitor’s find accommodations, places to shop, eat and attractions. It’s a great place to become active and involved in the Siesta Key community, whether you are a full-time or seasonal resident.

Volunteers also have the opportunity to attend Chamber networking and special events. Must be familiar with the local

area, some computer knowledge, and the ability to handle a busy environment!

Please contact, Terri Schube, Volunteers, Marketing & Events Manager at 941-3493800 or by stopping by our office at 5114 Ocean Boulevard.

Drone Sighting on Siesta

By Trebor Britt

SKA weighs in on the proposed roundabout

After careful consideration, the Siesta Key Association has determined that a roundabout at the intersection of Beach Road and Midnight Pass Road is not necessary. FDOT is in the process of gathering input from residents and businesses to determine if any action should be taken to change the intersection.

SKA believes the only changes needed are enhanced safety features for pedestrians and bicyclist.

Light Poles going up on Midnight Pass

FPL has been replacing the light poles on the Key for the past month and half. The new poles are more resistant to storms and high winds.

Continued on page 12

Jared Serfozo of Sarasota preparing to launch his video drone over spectacular Siesta Beach.

He was shooting the video for a volleyball tournament and “ Visit Sarasota County”. A videographer since high school Jared related, “the drone is the latest thing to get.”

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May 2015

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News Up & Down the Trail

By Roger Drouin City election coming up

On May 12, voters will choose their next city commissioners.

In District 2, incumbent Eileen Normile will face Liz Alpert.

In District 3, incumbent Stan Zimmerman will face Shelli Freeland Eddie. Six candidates initially ran for the two seats.

Early voting for the runoff will take place Monday, May 4th through Friday, May 9th. Polls on early voting days will be open from 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. at the Sarasota County Supervisor of Elections.

Since no candidate received a majority of votes March 10, none won outright, and the four candidates continued their campaign through April eyeing the May 12 runoff election.

City property values rise

It’s that time of year again, with temperatures rising and the City budget coming into focus.

Property values in the city are increasing again this year. The City Commission held the first in a series of Fiscal Year 2016 budget workshops in April, and John Lege, the city’s director of finance, told commissioners he expects a 5-percent average increase in property values.

Last year, the city kept property taxes at 3.1728 mills, the same as the year before. That meant property owners paid about $3.17 per $1,000 of taxable value. But even with the same tax rate, some property owners paid a higher tax bill as the value of their property increased.

Will commissioners hold the tax rate steady, or higher or lower it?

That will be worked out at future workshops over the summer. The City Commission will set the final budget in September.

Gator takes pool dip

An unexpected guest took a dip in a Nokomis pool. That’s where a homeowner found an 8-foot, 3-inch gator cooling off.

The Sarasota County Sheriff’s Office took some photos and interviewed the reptile at the scene last month. A trapper took the gator away a few hours later.

SRQ area tops well-being list

breeze . . . Residents of Sarasota, and the surrounding communities of North Port and Bradenton, reported the highest levels of happiness among the country’s 100 biggest metro areas, according to the Gallup-Healthways Well-Being Index released last month.

The report is based on responses from more than 176,000 randomlyselected adults across 50 states and the District of Columbia.

Researchers wanted to know answers to questions such as whether respondents liked where they live and if they are in good health and have love in their life.

Like Sarasota, some of the top raking cities in the index have a warm climate and a scenic setting.

Here are the top 10 cities on the list: 1. North Port-Sarasota-Bradenton, Florida, 2. Honolulu, Hawaii, 3. Raleigh, North Carolina, 4.

Oxnard-Thousand Oaks-Ventura, California, 5. El Paso, Texas, 6.

Austin-Round Rock, Texas, 7.

Provo-Orem, Utah, 8. San JoseSunnyvale-Santa Clara, California, 9. Washington-ArlingtonAlexandria, 10. Winston-Salem, North Carolina.

Mall gets burgers and computers

The commercial influx into the new Mall at University Town Center continues.

Burger & Beer Joint has opened it burger and rock-and-roll-theme concept at the mall. The restaurant is the fourth location for the burger joint started in South Beach.

Featured on Travel Channel’s Man vs. Food, Burger & Beer Joint emerged onto the South Beach scene in Miami in 2009 and quickly spread to new locations. Three more restaurants opened in South Florida and now the chain has 29-units under development thru franchising in Florida, California, New York, Washington, DC, Georgia and San Juan, Puerto Rico.

“The demand for the brand with franchisees has been tremendous,” said Tony Hannan, President/CEO of Burger & Beer Joint in a press release.

Driven by a sports and music theme, the restaurant will be open for lunch, dinner and late nights.

Plans for a new DQ

Those who lamented the closure in the mid 2000s of the old downtown Dairy Queen, with its landmark cone top on U.S. 301, might soon have cause to celebrate.

At an April 15 meeting, representatives for Pensacolab a s e d L a k e v i e w Associat ed Enterprises appeared before the city’s Development Review Committee to discuss plans for a new Dairy Queen restaurant at 402 N. Washington Blvd. That’s just a few blocks north of the old DQ that closed.

Plans for the new restaurant detail seating for 60, a drivethru and 27 parking spaces. In a staff memo, Sarasota city planner Lucia Panica outlines how one of the three parcels owned by Lakeview Associated Enterprises is zoned Downtown Edge. Since a restaurant is not an approved use in that zoning district, the developers will have to apply for a rezone and a comprehensive plan amendment.

The DQ would also have to meet other city requirements such as a drive-thru “stacking lane” and minimum parking specifications.

It must be something in the balmy

Continued on page 8

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News Up & Down the Trail The new University Town Center location will feature an outdoor patio with a fire pit.

Microsoft also announced April 9 that it will open its eighth retail store in Florida in a space within The Mall at University Town Center. The store will open June 11 in a 2,095-square-foot space and will employ about 30 people.

Microsoft will open two other locations, one in New Jersey and another in Texas, in June, as well.

Up next for Nik

After walking across Niagara Falls, a gorge near the Grand Canyon and skyscrapers in Chicago, one might think there’s not too many daring feats left for daredevil Nik Wallenda.

Wallenda found one. He announced Monday at a New York City press conference what his next challenge will be: an April 29 walk atop the Orlando Eye, a 400-foot tall observation wheel that is set to open this spring. Wallenda will walk around the rim of the wheel as it spins.

Wallenda, a seventh generation member of The Flying Wallendas clan, already has nine Guinness World Records for acrobatic accomplishments. The Orlando Eye is being billed as the largest observation wheel on the East Coast.

April has been a difficult month for the Wallenda family. Mario Wallenda, who was paralyzed in a 1962 high wire fall, died on Friday. Jenny Wallenda, Nik’s grandmother and the last German-born member of the family, died April 7. At the press conference, Nik spoke about how the show had to go on.

Ringling Square building sells

3

The Ringling Square officeretail building in downtown Sarasota at 1626 Ringling Blvd., has sold for $11.5 million.

The five-story building, on the southeast corner of Ringling Boulevard and Orange Avenue, was bought by an investor group under the name Ringling & Orange LLC. The five-story building houses a number of businesses, including Regions Bank, lawyer offices and real estate offices, and Jimmy John’s Sandwiches.

Continued from page 7

Ringling Square LLC paid $412,500 for the land in April 2002 and built the office building in 2005, according to the Sarasota County Property Appraiser’s website.

Buchanan eyes Rubio’s seat

Could Southwest Florida get some local representation on the U.S. Senate? If U.S. Rep. Vern Buchanan, R – Longboat Key, runs for the Senate in 2016 and is elected, that could be the case. Local media sources are reporting that Buchanan has said he “hasn’t ruled out” a bid for the Senate.

Buchanan confirmed he is considering running for the Senate in 2016 if incumbent Sen. Marco Rubio follows through on plans to run for president.

Buchanan, who was once one of the state’s largest car dealership owners, has long been interested in running for the Senate.

For 10 years, Buchanan has served in the House, where he’s a member of the House Ways and Mean Committee, which presides over tax policy, international trade and health care, as well as the Budget Committee.

If Buchanan does decide to step into what will likely be a highly contested race, he’ll set off another contested race for his seat in the House.

Doctor-training program announced

The Florida State University College of Medicine and Sarasota memorial Hospital unveiled plans in April for a doctortraining program intended to create more primary care physicians for Sarasota County and the region.

The program, which will start as early as 2017, is the first of its kind in the area. Based at SMH, the program is aimed to address a shortage of physicians in Florida.

The state currently ranks 42nd nationally for the number of per capita medical residents. But having a local doctor-training program could help. A physician is more likely to set up practice where he or she completes graduate medical education (residency or fellowship).

Tree County

The Arbor Day Foundation recently awarded Sarasota County the “Tree City USA” designation for 2014, based on the county’s demonstration of environmental improvement and higher level of tree care.

Sarasota County achieved its Tree City USA recognition by meeting four requirements: having a tree board or department, a tree-care ordinance, an annual community forestry budget of at least $2 per capita and an Arbor Day observance.

While you might see a lot of trees while driving around the county, it’s not the only locale that has earned the designation.

Sarasota County joins more than 3,400 Tree City locations, with a population of more than 140 million.

Smoke-free amenity

Condo owners or apartment renters in the area are invited to fill out an online survey if they prefer to live in a smoke-free building.

Residents can access the brief online survey at www.bit.do/ SWFLRenterSurvey. Tobacco Prevention Partnerships in five Southwest Florida Counties are teaming up to find out what local renters think about smoke-free living options.

Multiunit housing residents in Collier, Lee, Charlotte, Sarasota and Manatee Counties can take a brief online survey to share their opinions on smoke-free living.

Demand for smoke-free housing is increasing nationwide.

However, smoke-free living options remain scarce in Southwest Florida for people who want or need to live in a smoke-free environment.

For that reason, five Tobacco Prevention Partnerships in Southwest Florida have decided to give local multiunit housing residents the opportunity to have their voices heard.

Survey results will be shared with local property managers and owners to assist them in determining whether the smokefree amenity is an option for their community.

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May 2015

Siesta Key Association meeting notes Michael Shay called the meeting to order, and February Minutes were approved.

Community Reports Sheriff’s Office

Capt. John Walsh expressed appreciation for the fine work of Sgt. Scott Osborne, presenting him with a plaque for ten years of outstanding service on Siesta Key. Sgt. Osborne is being transferred to North Sarasota County.

Lt. Debra Kaspar reported that extra staff from the Sheriff’s office was brought onto Siesta Key to discourage crime during Spring Break. By ramping up the presence of the Sheriff’s Office, they were able to keep crime to a minimum, indicating they had put the right people in the right place at the right time. High school students flood into Siesta Key during the month of April, which can result in waves of juvenile crime. The Sheriff’s Office does all they can to keep things under control Sgt. Chris Laster of the Mounted Unit said that men on horses have been working large events as well as Spring Break. “It has been pretty calm. A lot of it has to do with presence. We are very fortunate here compared to other counties.”

Code Enforcement

Michael Shay reported that John Lally continues to work on illegal rentals.

Sarasota County Update: Current & Future Capital Improvement Projects

An update was given by Commissioner Charles D. Hines, Sarasota County Board of County Commissioners. He distributed a handout to the audience: Citizen’s Guide to the Adopted Fiscal Year 2015 Budget.

Public Safety is the #1 issue. The Sheriff’s Office is the biggest part of our budget. Things can quickly go wrong if the Sheriff’s Office does not stay on top of things.

Commissioner Hines recently attended the Florida Association of Counties, and found we are in pretty good financial shape. We are still 30% down from the height of 2005-2006, yet we have $200,000,000 of Capital.

Other counties are astonished at our successes. We have refinanced every single loan we have, lowering the interest rate each time we refinanced, which resulted in huge savings. We are AAA rated. Says Commissioner

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Questions for Commissioner Hines/ Public Comments

Reopen Midnight Pass? The cost of keeping the channel open is prohibitive. The State has turned us down.

Turtle Beach Re-nourishment? If we don’t get State money this year, Turtle Beach probably won’t happen.

Tourist Development Tax has sky-rocketed. Most goes to beach renourishment and maintenance. Can’t we build something that our full time

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COMMITTEE REPORTS: Environment

Catherine Luckner reported that the Army Corps had released an updated environmental assessment for the proposed Big Pass dredge plan to renourish Lido Key. She said this new assessment was incomplete, lacking in information, and inconsistent with our expectations.

Significant changes had been made in this new application. One proposed groin on Lido would be 9 ft. wide, 4 ft. tall, and go out 400 feet from a seawall. The second proposed groin would be slightly shorter.

Both groins start and finish at two commercial properties, meaning that people would not be able to walk the beach. “It would effectively destroy the walking beach on Lido. Our job is to raise questions,” said Catherine Luckner. A meeting was held April 15 for public input.

Old Business

2015 Great American Cleanup: Michael Shay reported that 33 volunteers contributed over 53 hours of work cleaning up Ocean Boulevard, Higel Avenue, and Midnight Pass Road.

Roundabout: Bob Stein reported that no decision had yet been made.

92 people have commented after receiving the first mail out. Another mailing will be made to nearby residents. A decision should be made by summer.

Siesta Key Village Municipal Lot: Michael Shay reported that currently there is no ordinance against trucks being parked in that lot. However, SKA and SK Village Association will soon be meeting with the County Commissioners.

They will propose a bill to restrict truck parking in the Siesta Key Village Municipal Lot. Hopefully that bill will quickly be passed.

The next SKA monthly meeting will be held May 7, 2015, at 4:30 pm.

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residents can use as well as tourists, things such as dog parks? Yes. And if we did, we could advertise Sarasota as having dog-friendly beaches.

What about Private Property benefiting from beach renourishment? Expensive condos and hotels on Lido should throw in a little money to help fund the renourishment of beaches that front their buildings.

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Hines: “Even as bad as the recession was, I didn’t see people bailing out of Sarasota—maybe they moved if they lost their jobs, but others stayed.”

The Commissioner went on to say that Gulf Gate Library has been rebuilt to the tune of 7.7 million.

Emergency Operations Center has been built for 15.5 million. Blackburn Point Park and boat ramps have been built for 4.4 million. Bee Ridge Road East has been extended for 34 million. Emergency communications have been extended into a much broader area, serving not just Sarasota County, but also Manatee— at a cost of 32 million. “Hopefully we’ll get State and Federal Monies.”

The cost for Siesta Key Beach is 2.5 million. The cost for four hurricaneproof fire stations is 18 million. And the list goes on.

Commissioner Hines credited the Sheriff for reaching out to the community and being responsive.

“Realistically, what the Sheriff’s office needs during the next 6-7 years would cost $90-100 million, yet everybody says, don’t raise our taxes! It is always an issue of What Do We Want Vs. What Do We Need?

I have asked the sheriff: what do you need in the next 2 years? In the next 5 years? Can you break it down into smaller pieces? Can you wait until we save up the money? We’ve got choices to make. Other communities are raising taxes in order to stay even with basic services such as water, sewer, fire, ambulance, etc.”

Commissioner Hines would like to see the LEGACY TRAIL finished into downtown Sarasota, which would cost $30-40 million. The City of Venice asked the County Commissioners for an extra one million dollars towards Venice Beach Re-nourishment Project, which was granted. This is because the project cost more than anticipated.

Our total County Budget is well over a billion dollars, $1,149,191,323 to be exact.

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May 2015

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Off Key

By Robert Frederickson

|From Local Sand Storms to Befriending Veterans “Spinning” the Facts in Brewing Lido/Siesta Sand Storm

An informational meeting held recently in Sarasota by the Army Corps of Engineers to update the public on plans to re-nourish Lido Beach drew more than 100 citizens, many from Siesta.

Of special concern to the Siesta contingent: the sand for the project is to come from Big Pass Shoal, sand that if left to its own devices would naturally migrate toward Siesta. The shoal also protects the island from storm damage.

The $20 million project’s goal is to widen over one-and-a-half miles of Lido by an average of 176 feet.

The Corps maintains the project is not a danger to Siesta, but the group Save Our Siesta Sand 2 remains skeptical, seeing the recent presentation as little more than an effort to “spin” the facts of the matter in the Army Corps preferred direction. They want an independent review of those facts.

But one of the project supervisors told the crowd that such a study would only be approved if it was determined the work would have “a significant environmental impact,” adding: “it won’t.”

That supervisor’s name? Jason “Spinning,” which many in the audience took as all together fitting.

Riding the “Scooby Doo” Express

Remember the Vice Presidential Debate between Dan Quayle and Senator Lloyd Bentsen back in 1988? That was the one where the Texas Senator got the better of his younger colleague after Quayle invoked the name of the late President Kennedy in one of his responses, prompting the Bentsen retort: “Mr. Quayle, I knew John F. Kennedy. I was a friend of John F. Kennedy. Mr. Quayle, you’re no John F. Kennedy...”

Now with all the hoopla surrounding Hillary’s “of the people” campaign rollout with the former Secretary of State and New York Senator setting off on a road-trip to Iowa in her luxury van named “Scooby Doo” (after

the Great Dane cartoon character who rode around in the back of his scruffy owner’s anything-but luxury model van), perhaps we will have a reprise of that grand moment of political theatre.

I can hear it now. An opponent of Hillary in an upcoming presidential debate, taking exception to her claims to be ‘just like the rest of us’ by virtue of her having driven cross country in her “Scooby Doo” van (forget about the $300,000 speaking fees); he or she turning to the former first lady and saying solemnly: “Mrs. Clinton, I’ve met Scooby Doo. Scooby Doo was a friend of mine. Mrs. Clinton, you’re no Scooby Doo!”

Often Wrong but Never in Doubt...

The folks at Colorado State University have once again released their annual forecast for the upcoming Atlantic Hurricane season, and if past performance is any indicator of future results, we could be headed for an especially rough season. Why? Well, the scientists there have predicted one of the slowest seasons on record.

“Overall, the environment this year is just not conducive to hurricane development,” according to Phil Klotzbach of Colorado State.

Two years ago the forecast was for an especially active season with an above average storm count. The result? One of the lowest storm totals on record, hence our contrarian view that we may get whacked but good this year.

Amusing isn’t it? We’re supposed to suspend all skepticism about the “settled science” of human engineered global warming, based on predictions for one-hundred years hence...based on models where the predicted dire results all fall within the margin of error of the underlying studies. Meantime, a forecast looking ahead three or four months is about as accurate as a blindfolded chimp tossing darts at a board labeled “more storms” on one side and “less” on the other.

Don’t get me wrong. I believe in climate change...I was raised in upstate New York after all, where the climate changes by the

minute. I just don’t get how the human influence – which is but a nano-second in comparison to the planet’s 4.6 billion year age – can be calculated with any degree of accuracy at this point.

So do we constrain economic growth in the west with tighter environmental restrictions (while in the name of ‘fairness’ eastern nations...including...China get to continue polluting at their current levels to ‘catch-up’, economically) and risk the real human toll such a likely economic slowdown would bring… all to avoid an outcome that may or may not ever come to pass?

Savings of $2.5 Million

by Privatizing SCAT, MCAT? (Don’t hold your breath)

An Illinois company has proposed a plan that could potentially save local taxpayers $2.5 million (roughly 12.5% of budgeted expenses) on mass transit expenditures in the Sarasota/Manatee County region. By combining Sarasota and Manatee counties’ separate operations into one combined transit system, Transdev Services says it can eliminate overlapping management and maintenance facility costs, providing the same or better service with less of a tax burden on local taxpayers.

The proposed privatization makes a lot of sense, which is probably why it will never be implemented. Politicians and the bureaucracies they put in place love the status quo. They generally shun bold plans that might result in greater efficiencies, like the one proposed by Transdev.

Just witness the recent favorable tax considerations for Marina Jack’s related to past lease agreements with the city that have raised questions over the years. Then there was Sarasota County Schools Superintendent Lori White recently expressing her preference for a contractor the school board had used in the past to build a new Suncoast Technical College satellite campus despite another qualified contractor’s bid coming in $4.5-million below the “preferred” candidate’s.

Continued on page 28

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941.349.0194

Beach Wedding

May 2015

By Trebor Britt

Sovanne & Eric

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|Best Friends Tie The Knot Sovanne Ek and Eric Lunsford of Knoxville, Tennessee exchanged vows surrounded by family and close friends, at an intimate wedding ceremony along the Gulf of Mexico shoreline on Siesta Beach.

Uniquely, a hepatitis B virus scare contributed to this fabulous couple meeting one another. Eric decided one day to give up his vegetarian lifestyle. Wondering where to have his first nonvegetarian meal, he decided the cleanest/safest place would be a restaurant that recently had a hepatitis B scare. At the time, health inspectors were actually living on the premises. You guessed it, Sovanne was his server. After countless visits to the restaurant, Eric and Sovanne would become best friends.

They both fondly recalled a key event two years into their relationship. Eric said, “I invited Sovanne and her daughter Bopha to go to the zoo one day (Knoxville Zoological Gardens) while I worked on a college class photo assignment. Sovanne called me as I was on my way home and asked, “Why are you playing hard to get?”

I was completely unaware she liked me. I think I stammered something unintelligible and goofy and we have been together ever since.”

The death of Sovanne’s father was another key moment for this outstanding couple. She related, “I realized then Eric was my rock,

my love and best friend. I was going through the toughest time of my life. He was always right by my side through all the hospital/ nursing home visits. He comforted me, listened to me and was the shoulder I cried on.

I can honestly say I am not sure if I would have made it through without him being there for me.

I love him for that. He is my everything and he completes me.”

After attending a beach wedding a few years ago, they decided it would be the perfect location for them. Sovanne and Eric stay very busy raising a family and working in the Knoxville area. She works in human resources and is a business analyst and he’s a database and software developer.

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Four crashes along Ocean Boulevard stretch The bend in Ocean Boulevard before it intersects with Higel Avenue has been a busy stretch of roadway, for accidents that is.

Four car crashes have occurred in the past eight months along the half-mile stretch near the bend in the 4600 block of Ocean Blvd. The crashes seem unrelated. No one has been injured, but there has been thousands in vehicle and property damage. A light pole and row of sea grape hedges didn’t fare well.

The two most recent crashes happened April 5, a Sunday.

At 7:15 p.m., the 27-yearold driver of a 1991 Acura was involved in a single car crash and was cited for improper passing, according to the Florida Highway Patrol.

Then at 2:40 a.m. the driver of a 2007 Pontiac was cited for careless driving after he struck a 2015 Toyota.

In January, a 20-year old Perry, Florida man was arrested for driving under the influence and damaging property, after he seemingly continued his New

Year’s Eve celebration into the next night. He didn’t navigate the curve at Ocean Blvd. and Sand Dollar Lane and hit a light pole with his SUV at almost midnight on January 1. Florida Power & Light had to replace the light pole, which was repaired by the next morning.

In early fall, 2014, a man was looking down at his phone while attempting to round the curve on Ocean Blvd. and lost control of his car. He crashed into the long hedge

Siesta Key Round-Up Once all the new poles are placed, Verizon and Comcast can begin moving their cables to the new poles.

If the last work order is any indication of how long it will take Verizon and Comcast to move the wires, we may be in for a long wait. It took numerous calls and two months of waiting before the wires were moved from a split pole that was struck by a car on New Year’s Eve.

By Roger Drouin

of sea grapes in front of Siesta Town House condominiums.

According to the police crash report, the accident was a direct result of the young man’s actions right before the crash. “Driver of V1 was negotiating the right curve in the 4600 block of Ocean Blvd.,” the report states. “He stated that he looked down at his phone and when he realized he was in the opposite lane of traffic, over-steered and went into the bushes on the west side of the roadway.”

Continued from page 6

Susan and John

Jr. Life Guard program

SKA will be making its annual donation to the Jr. Lifeguard program. This program offers hands-on learning experiences and character-building activities while having fun. Children spend a week with Professional Lifeguards learning the fundamentals of lifeguarding. Lifeguards with the Sarasota County Beach Patrol train participants in water safety, rescue techniques, rescue paddling, competitive lifeguard events, how to identify and treat marine life, CPR and first aid.

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Well-deserved rest coming

John Lally, Code Enforcement Officer for Siesta Key will be retiring May 26, 2015. His last day on Siesta Key will be May 22. John is training his replacement Susan Stahley. Both will be attending the upcoming Siesta Key Association Meeting on May 7, at St. Boniface Church at 4:30 p.m. Siesta Sand wishes John the very best in his retirement.

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Sheriff’s Report

May 2015

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March 19-April 16, 2015

There were a total of 67 crimes reported on the Key from 3/19-4/16/15

3/20/15 Burglary of a Structure - 4000 Block Commonwealth Drive A woman called to report her bright blue Schwinn “Earth Cruiser” bicycle was taken from her garage.

She stated that the garage door had been left open between 10a.m. and 1p.m.

At 1:30p.m, the victim exited the garage in her vehicle and didn’t return home until 8:00 that night. She realized the bike was missing upon entering her garage and reported the crime. She estimated the value of the bike to be approximately $300. There was another bicycle in the garage that was the same model within close proximity, but it was not taken. The victim didn’t notice anything else missing at the time of the report. There were no signs of forced entry and it is assumed that the bike was taken while the door was open.

3/20/15 Grand Theft 5000 Block Ocean Blvd A woman parked her bicycle, valued at $2195, in the rear of a village restaurant. When she returned a little over an hour later, it was gone. The bike was described as a dark purple Pedego electric beach cruiser. It had a black wire basket and bell attached to the handlebars. The key to activate the electric motor was left in the bike when it was parked.

3/25/15 Resisting Arrest W/O Violence, Possession of Alcohol Under 21 Years of Age, Possession of A Driver’s License With An Altered Date of Birth 6000 Block Midnight Pass Rd Deputies received a call regarding a large gathering of underage drinking on the beach.

Upon arrival, a deputy could smell the odor of marijuana and saw the defendant smoking something.

When the deputy shined his flashlight on the defendant, he took off running. As the deputy was chasing him, he was seen throwing items out of his backpack. When the deputy caught up with the 18 year old, he apologized and said he had only had a couple of hits off of the marijuana and that it was not his. Deputies were unable to locate the items that had been thrown out of the backpack.

When the deputies searched the

defendant, he explained that he had forgotten that he had a bottle of Captain Morgan Spiced Rum in his backpack. When deputies checked his identification, the defendant admitted to having a fake identification in his wallet, as well.

4/3/15 Grand Theft Siesta Public Beach A deputy was approached by a 16-year-old girl who complained that two of her friends took her car from the parking lot without her permission. She explained that she had given her friend the car keys so she could retrieve her phone from the locked vehicle. She stated she explicitly told the friend not to take her vehicle, as she was aware that she did not have driver’s license. After approximately 15 minutes, the complainant returned to where she had parked and discovered her vehicle gone. While speaking with the complainant, Deputies witnessed the suspect driving the missing vehicle into the parking lot and conducted a traffic stop. The 15-year-old suspect acknowledged that she did not have a driver’s license and that she was not given authorization to take the vehicle. She explained that she drove the vehicle to the Subway in the Village in order to charge her phone. The complainant did not wish to pursue criminal charges and signed a waiver of prosecution. The suspect was issued two traffic citations. Her parents were contacted, responded to the scene and took her home.

4/5/15 Stolen Vehicle 1000 Block Beach Road A woman’s Mazda CX9 was stolen from the condo where she had been staying. She stated she saw her vehicle parked at approximately 3:45p.m. She left the condo at around 5 p.m. When she returned it was gone.

4/7/15 Burglary Residence 400 Block Avenida De Mayo The complainant had rented 8 bicycles from a Siesta bike rental business.

When it began to rain they put the bikes in the garage with the door left open. When the rain stopped, approximately 1 hour 30 minutes later, they discovered the bikes were missing. An unknown suspect had entered the garage and took three of the bicycles. The bikes were all reported to be Trek brand with an approximate value of $200 each. No paperwork was given at the time the bikes were rented, and as the complainant called to report the incident to the rental company, they stated they would follow up when possible.

Due to the complainant renting 8 bikes from the rental company and the lack of any formal paperwork for the transaction, the exact model, color or serial number for the bikes was unknown at the time of the report.

4/8/15 Grand Theft 3000 Block Shell Rd A man reported that he had been landscaping his property and removed a metal flagpole from the ground. He placed it next to his detached garage and continued with his project. He left town for a couple of weeks and later returned. He then noticed that the pole was missing and assumed that scrappers had taken it. At the time of the report, there were no suspects and the exact date of the theft was unknown. The pole was valued at $350.

4/8/15 Burglary of Structure Siesta Beach A lifeguard with The Sarasota County Emergency Services reported a burglary that had occurred in the middle of the night to the blue lifeguard stand.

The door to enter the stand was damaged, having been either kicked from the inside or struck with an unknown object. The damage caused the wood to break in the center of the door, which caused approximately $200 in damage. Although no items had been noticed as missing, it appears that the suspect(s) entered through the side window due to the finger and hand smudges on it.

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May 2015

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A New Salon for the Discerning Gentleman

Frank’s Gentlemen’s Salon is an upscale men’s salon dedicated to providing men with traditional barber shop services combined with cool modern style.

At Frank’s, they believe great service and an amazing atmosphere should be an expectation, not a surprise, so, they’ve worked diligently on creating an experience where each client looks forward to returning.

From the moment you step through the door you realize that Frank’s Gentlemen’s Salon is not your average barber shop. It’s a sophisticated, elegant, men’s salon designed especially for Sarasota.

Clients are invited to sit back and enjoy a complimentary beverage while relaxing to the timeless sounds of Sinatra and Bennett. Stellar customer service is never rushed as they pay attention to every detail. Even the spacious waiting area has been designed with men in mind, complete with dark, rich leather chairs, 55” HDTV and beautiful solid oak pool table.

Services include but are not limited to: Haircuts, discrete Color Camo, facials and man-Pedi’s.

Offered each Tuesday is a halfpriced haircut for new clients.

The most popular service is the Frank’s signature haircut which includes shampoo and

conditioning treatment with Eufora products, an invigorating scalp massage and a hot towel facial wrap. It ends with a relaxing neck and shoulder massage.

Complimentary clean ups are always included.

Living close to the #1 beach, where flip-flops are the norm, ladies notice and appreciate a well-groomed man from head to toe. The man-Pedi is a musttry. Pamper your feet and calves while you relax for 60 minutes in a luxurious state-of-theart Continuum massage chair. You will feel like king for the day as they care for your nails and massage your tired feet.

For a groom, Frank’s 2,400 square feet of manly comfort is a welcome and memorable experience. The staff stands ready to help prepare the groom and his entourage for that special day.

With Father’s Day just around the corner, it’s a great time to introduce your dad to Frank’s.

Gift certificates are available for purchase.

“I am very proud of what we have built here in Sarasota and

am so excited to share it with each client,” says owner, Sabine Kruta.

She invites you to stop by and experience any of their services to appreciate why coming to Frank’s is not just an appointment, it’s an experience.

Frank’s Gentlemen’s Salon is conveniently located near Siesta Key at 4141 S Tamiami Trail in Sarasota, Florida. 941-926-2631.

Hours: Tue, Wed 10-5, Thursday, Friday 9-6, Saturday 10-2.

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Off Islands Whose got my car keys?

Many remember the key clubs that were fashionable in the suburbs back in the 70s. Attend a party, throw your car keys in a bowl when you arrive, drink and have fun and, when everyone leaves, the women take a set of keys out of the bowl and go home with whoever’s keys they are.

There were Key Clubs like that all over America - even in the upper mid-west.

Fast forward forty years and Ocean Properties is proposing a $100 mi l l i on k e y cl u b o n Longboat Key - but not the kind you remember. Today we are hard pressed to find where our keys are, let alone putting them in a bowl and figuring out whose are whose at the end of an evening.

Instead there is talk of a hotel with 259 units and 90 plus condos towering 10 to 12 stories over Sarasota Bay. But that kind of talk is the pie in the sky kind - no concrete details have been released.

Instead everything defaults to another game from our younger years where people swap places - musical chairs. The property on which The Longboat Key Club now stands is not configured the way the new owner / developers feel will best suit future clients.

Instead of the present layout there is talk of not just moving all new development to the south side of Longboat Club Road but to move the road itself. To where should it be moved? - closer to where a driving range now sits.

That would, of course, mean that they would move the gatehouse further west. Tennis courts will also be replaced, but no mention of what the would be replaced by, although new condos west of the hotel are planned. One thing that won’t move, or al least not very quickly, is traffic along Gulf Of Mexico Drive. Even with a number of resort destinations - The Colony and the Hilton, among others - not open, traffic just seems to creep along. Additional traffic kind of gives one the creeps, doesn’t it.

It also seems that, because reservations are hard to get at the Chart House restaurant, Ocean Properties will build, at some point in the future, 48 condos where the restaurant now sits. This way, those that can afford to, can permanently occupy that Chart House space without having to phone ahead. Ocean Properties doesn’t plan on canceling anyone’s leases, simply to not renew them when up for renewal.

What is holding up the developer from releasing a concrete conceptual plan for review?: the referendum ballot scheduled for May 12. A YES vote will permit 300 more units on select areas of Key Club property. If residents vote NO Ocean Properties will have to go back to Square One - if it hasn’t been moved.

The dog ate my homework

Remember when one of your children used that excuse in school when they did not finish their homework on time (because of not starting their homework on time) - or was that you, a few years earlier? Anyway, residents of Longboat Key, as represented

by Mayor Jack Duncan and Town Manager Dave Bullock, are asking for a study for the cities of Sarasota, Bradenton, Bradenton Beach, Holmes Beach and Anna Maria along with the Florida Department of Transportation and the Metropolitan Planning Organization of Sarasota and Manatees.

Why the study? Mayor Duncan

May 2015

By Rodger Skidmore

15

Connie Lewis

says that many concerned citizens say they are so late, due to traffic, that they are missing doctor and dental appointments. The study will ask: Is traffic getting worse?

And the answer, of course, will be - Yes. A second question might well be asked as well: What to do about it? Two answers come to mind. One is, get developers to pay higher impact fees (hard to do politically) to pay for more infrastructure (turning lanes, etc), and the other is to tell the concerned citizens to leave earlier for all their appointments: that one would be really hard to do.

A more daring plan would an additional lane running the entire length of Gulf of Mexico Drive. From the midpoint of the key - perhaps Westfield Street going toward Bradenton Beach and Cortez Road the extra lane would be used for northbound traffic. Going toward St. Armands and Sarasota the extra lane would be used for southbound traffic.

This lane would help move more traffic off the island in both directions during evacuations, for early bird dinners and for dental appointments. Although I’m not sure why people with dental problems can’t just FedEx their teeth in for repair and save the round trip.

Wish for the moon

Admittedly, crossing either of Longboat Key’s two bridges to the mainland in a timely fashion is a

problem, but so is just crossing Gulf of Mexico Drive - especially in a safe and stress free way.

Mayor Jack Duncan is concerned about safety and feels that a crosswalk at the intersection of that thoroughfare and Wake Island Road is a necessity. The Florida Department of Transportation, not so much.

Apparently the FDOT will not consider putting in a crosswalk, or any other safety measure, unless 72 people have died or become quadriplegic at that location (the actual number and/or severity of injuries may be somewhat lower, but you get the drift). The mayor feels that facts (and voters) can sometimes speak for themselves.

With the amount of foot traffic that crosses Gulf of Mexico Drive at that point, he feels an accident is just waiting to happen.

One problem with adding this particular crosswalk is that the FDOT is already set to add 4 crosswalks later this year at various points along this island long roadway and Mayor Duncan is also asking for 4 other additional crosswalks. That seems to add up to a total of nine new crosswalks - a bit of a stretch one might say.

Perhaps Mayor Duncan should prioritize his requests and then, for the one he feels is needed most, ask for a pedestrian bridge over G of M Drive. The FDOT, after seeing how much that would cost,might relent and add one more crosswalk to its existing list.

Snapshots of Visitors

Michigan Girls: Samantha, Kassidy, Aja and Lexus.

Photo submitted by Jerry Alu/ Siesta Key Free Ride.

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Scott to file suit against feds over health funding By Brandon Larrabee In a new sign of escalating tensions between state and federal officials, Gov. Rick Scott announced in April he will sue the federal government to try to resolve a standoff over $2.2 billion in funding for hospitals and other health providers.

Scott’s lawsuit would rely on a potentially novel interpretation of the 2012 U.S. Supreme Court ruling that upheld the federal Affordable Care Act, popularly known as Obamacare. In that case, NFIB v. Sebelius, the court ruled that the federal government couldn’t coerce states into expanding Medicaid by requiring any state that didn’t do so to give up all of its Medicaid funding.

The governor’s legal action would argue that the federal Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services is doing the same thing by linking an extension of the Low Income Pool, or LIP, program to whether the state expands Medicaid coverage. LIP, which provides money to hospitals and other health providers that serve large numbers of poor and uninsured patients, is set to expire June 30.

“Our citizens already pay federal taxes that go into the federal LIP program,” Scott said in a statement announcing the action.

“Now, President Obama has decided that the state must take on a larger Medicaid program, forcing our taxpayers to pay even more to government, before they get their own federal tax dollars back. This is outrageous, and specifically what the Supreme Court warned against.”

Advocates and hospitals have said that if the state loses LIP funding, it could cause cutbacks in services or programs across the state.

Speaking to reporters after the announcement, Lt. Gov. Carlos Lopez-Cantera said Scott’s administration was doing whatever is necessary to try to get LIP funds for Florida.

“We need to explore every option to ensure that these funds are available for the most needy here in Florida,” Lopez-Cantera said. “That’s what Gov. Scott’s always done. He’s always fought for Floridians, and that’s what he’s doing with this.”

The lawsuit plays into a heated battle over a Senate plan to use $2.8 billion in Medicaid expansion funding to help lowerincome Floridians purchase private health insurance. But the House and Scott --- who once favored straight-up Medicaid expansion --- oppose that idea. House leaders say the federal government wouldn’t approve it even if they agreed to go along.

Senate President Andy Gardiner, R-Orlando, said he’s skeptical that the lawsuit will free up LIP dollars before the new budget year begins July 1.

“Certainly, the governor has his opinion and has put forward kind of a new little wrinkle today, but I’m not sure that that solves the situation that we’re in where we have to have a balanced budget, and we have to make some decisions,” Gardiner said.

Any case could take weeks to be heard, and any initial ruling could spend months winding its way through the appeals process.

House Speaker Steve Crisafulli, a Merritt Island Republican who backed Scott’s lawsuit, also said legal action wouldn’t have a practical impact on the immediate budget problem.

“No, most likely, it won’t,” he said. “The only thing that will have an effect on the budget from the standpoint of LIP and CMS is if Washington does something.”

Asked about the lawsuit, a spokesman for CMS said the state could do what it wanted with Medicaid, but referred back to a letter in which the agency said “the state’s expansion status is an important consideration in our approach regarding extending the LIP beyond June.”

That letter outraged some state officials and eventually led to Scott’s lawsuit.

“Florida, like all states, is free to implement Medicaid expansion or not. ... We look forward to the state submitting its LIP proposal and CMS will review it based on the principles articulated in our April 14 letter,” spokesman Aaron Albright said in an email.

Democrats, meanwhile, blasted

the governor for an act that they said wouldn’t solve the problem and would lead to the state being tied up in costly litigation. Scott, whose foray into politics began with a fierce ad war against Obamacare before seeking the governor’s office, has frequently battled the federal government in court.

“It’s more of the same from the governor,” said House Minority Leader Mark Pafford, D-West Palm Beach. “It’s a corporate reaction: We sue people. The sad part is, it’s the taxpayers of Florida that will pay more.”

Senate Minority Leader Arthenia Joyner, D-Tampa, accused Scott of hypocrisy for pushing for LIP dollars from the federal government while rejecting expansion money from the same source.

“Today’s grandstanding underscores his commitment to wasting Florida’s tax dollars to get what he wants, at whatever cost,” Joyner said in a statement issued by her office. “This is all about scoring points against President Obama.”

At the same time, Crisafulli signaled a willingness to use state money to try to shield hospitals from the effects of lost LIP funding.

The speaker has said before that he would not use state dollars to “backfill” the LIP system, but drew a distinction Thursday between that and setting up a state program.

“If we want to talk about a plan moving forward, we can talk about a plan moving forward from the standpoint of trying to help those safety-net hospitals with a different kind of program,” he said. “But for us to take up and put a pot of money out there that they get to draw from like they do right now with LIP is not something that we could possibly do in Tallahassee with even the greatest of budget reserves.”

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May 2015

Sand Castles

Island Visitor Publishing, LLC

17

This is the first of Siesta Sand’s monthly Sand Castles feature.

By Roger Drouin

|Preventative maintenance and stable ownership keep Terrace East in top shape Doug Lambert, longtime property manager at the 46-unit Terrace East condominiums, is on call 24/7. In the past year, however, he’s only had to handle one afterhours emergency maintenance call.

Lambert attributes the low number of maintenance calls— and only two assessmentfunded updates in 11 years (both necessitated by rules passed in Tallahassee)—to recent “preventative maintenance mode” at the 42-year-old tower.

That’s because owners and board members decided in the 1990s to proactively fund scheduled upgrades and repairs using budget reserves.

“There were a lot more maintenance calls 15 years ago,” Lambert says.

The details matter when it comes to Terrace East’s preventive maintenance approach, and Lambert can go “on and on” about all the recent building improvements. In 2009, the kitchen stacks, or pipes feeding the kitchen areas of units, were upgraded with a PVC liner. In July, crews will do the same for the bathroom pipes.

Last year, the entire exterior was painted, sealed and weatherproofed. It will be repainted and weatherproofed again in 2021. The building is weatherproofed “every seven years like clock work,” Lambert said. In addition, pavers are resurfaced every two years; the pool re-done every 9 years.

“It was built in 1973,” Realtor Ron Flynn, of Key Solutions Real Estate, said of the 12-story tower, “but they keep their reserves up and keep the property maintained.

That is very important.”

Individual units have also undergone improvements. About 85 percent of the units have been remodeled in the past 10 years, Lambert told Siesta Sand. Several units have been upgraded with impact resistant glass, and others underwent full renovations from new kitchens to bathrooms, according to Sarasota County permits.

Although not Gulf front, Terrace East units feature Gulf views and views of the Village, Lambert said. The community is a good fit for owners seeking a well-maintained high-rise with Gulf views and long-term, stable owners and renters, Lambert said.

The condo’s guidelines are unique among those on the Key in that Terrace East prohibits any leases for less than a one-year duration.

The ideal buyer is “a person or a couple that wants to just park their car,” Flynn told Siesta Sand.

“They can walk to the beach and walk to restaurants. They are living at their destination point.” Flynn said many recent owners were cash buyers who were looking for a second home or a retirement home.

Many of the current owners are still working and live up north, and wanted a place where they can come vacation with their families, Lambert said. There are also a handful of year-round residents and some snowbirds.

Central location

“It’s a great place,” says Don Moberg, who has owned a unit since 1988 and enjoys being able to walk down to the beach and to the Village where there are “so many places to eat” that a Terrace East dweller and their family could

stroll to a different restaurant every day of the week.

“And people really get along,” Moberg said. At just one of its annual get-togethers, the community had an end-of-season BBQ April 15.

The no-short-term-lease policy is a fit for Moberg. “People want to stay here, the retired accountant and commercial finance businessman said. “You get to know people.”

Owners and long-term renters tend to keep their units in top shape, added Moberg, who spends six months in Minneapolis and the other six months on Siesta. “If they are here for three weeks, who knows.”

Four units have sold in the 12-story tower since January, 2014— a fairly low turnover that Lambert believes is reflective of the type of long-term owners who are drawn to Terrace East’s short-term rental prohibition and meticulous attention to preventative maintenance.

Moberg is one of the residents who notices and appreciates all the keen attention to detail. “It’s a well run building,” he said during an interview as he looked around proudly at the lobby (which is due for yet another redo next summer) and outside to the landscaping (Florida-friendly plants).

Most units range from 1,375 to 1,450 square feet, and feature two bedrooms and two baths. The view, Lambert says, is what sells the units. Each of four units on every floor has water views. From the penthouse corner unit, one can see spectacular views of the Gulf, Siesta Village and to the north downtown Sarasota and the John Ringling Bridge.

Location and remodeling payoff Of the four units that sold since January 2014, the average sales price was $817,000. Average sale price per square foot came out to $587.

Of those sales, however, two remodeled units fetched the highest sale prices, at $910,000 and $950,000 respectively, or a $659-per-square-foot average.

In addition to remodeling, some of the units—such as the higher corner units—command more sweeping views, which is usually reflected in the sales price.

“The two factors that drive up the price are the upgrades and the view,” said Flynn.

Recent sales in Terrace East

Unit #302, at 1,375 square feet, sold for $608,000 in March, 2015, at $442 per square foot. It was listed for $685,000.

Unit #303, which sold for $910,000 in December, 2014, was remodeled the previous year.

Upgrades included new plumbing, master bath and kitchen, according to Sarasota County permits. At 1,375 square feet, the sale price came to $662 per square foot. It was listed for $925,000.

Unit #1, at 1,446 square feet, sold for $950,000 in June, 2014, or $657 per square foot. It was listed for $995,000. It was fully remodeled—including upgraded kitchen and two baths—in August, 2014, according to Sarasota County permits.

Unit #502 sold for $800,000 in January, 2014. At 1,375 square feet, it sold for $582 per square foot. Three impact glass windows were installed in the unit in July 2014, according to Sarasota County permits. The interior was revamped in 2006, with

hardwood floors, kitchen and bathroom cabinets, countertops

and tile work.

NOTE: Realtor Ron Flynn of Key Solutions Real Estate Group contributed to the sales information used in this article. Other data was compiled from the Sarasota County Property Appraiser Office, Sarasota County Planning & Development Services permits, and Multiple Listing Service (MLS).

18 Siesta Sand

May 2015

941.349.0194 www.siestasand.net

7th Annual Fiesta On Siesta Women’s Collegiate Sand Volleyball Tournament By Trebor Britt

Nearly 400 student-athletes from 27 colleges and universities competed in this years’ Fiesta on Siesta Women’s Collegiate Sand Volleyball Tournament. Sand volleyball has become more and more popular each year for the last five years and in 2016, it will be added as an NCAA championship sport.

Head Coach, Lonni Wilson (L) stands with his 2015 State College of Florida (SCF) beach volleyball team at the 7th Annual Fiesta on Siesta Collegiate Sand Volleyball Tournament on Siesta Beach.

SCF Freshman Holly Kabana of Venice setting a spike opportunity for her pairs partner SCF Freshman Jenny D’Alessandro of Port Charlotte during the Women’s Collegiate Tournament.

SCF Sophomore, Janhea Beisner of Port Charlotte leaping high above the powdery sands of Siesta Beach and spiking a clean winner in an early round pairs match.

Junior National All-Star Team Tryouts on Siesta Beach Steve Bishop executive director and president of the Florida region of USA volleyball and Patchi Daugherty Manager for national beach high-performance programs from California were conducting a junior beach volleyball highperformance tryout to field a national All-Star team on incredible Siesta Beach. They were looking for top elite Junior beach volleyball

athletes from across the state of Florida as well as Georgia to get a spot and invitation to compete in the All-Star program. Athletes were evaluated on both their physical and beach volleyball skills. The coaching staff was made up of a former national team beach athlete as well as several Florida open pro beach players.

Sierra Langford (12) of Ft. Lauderdale providing a perfect set during Junior beach volleyball high-performance tryout to fill a national All-Star team on spectacular Siesta Beach. She and her younger sister competed in the last years “Dig the Beach” Tournament on Siesta Key. When asked why he brought his daughter to this event, Mike Langford said, “She loves playing volleyball, we see some talent and its a great opportunity to compare her ability to the other players.”

SCF Sophomore Taylor LaFavre of Bradenton displaying perfect service form during her match. The SCF Manatees competed against seven other Junior Colleges in the tournament.

By Trebor Britt Sena Szczepaniuk (13) of Tokyo Japan now of Osprey leaping high during a spike drill as coaches from the high-performance tryout look on. She’s been playing beach volleyball with her friends from Pine View School for about three years.

www.siestasand.net

941.349.0194

May 2015

Island Visitor Publishing, LLC

VILLAGE MAP pgs 20 - 21

ACCOMMODATIONS PAGE 38

GULF GATE SHOPS pg 25

CRESCENT BEACH MAP pg 22

LOCAL MAPS INSIDE

LIVE MUSIC PAGE 26

19

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

Snapshots of Visitors

Siesta Key Drum Circle

Photos by Jaye Clements - Sarasota Photography 1

3

Every Sunday is a perfect time to come to the Key for some wonderful entertainment. I’m talking about the Siesta Key Drum Circle that takes place each Sunday starting about an hour before sunset and lasting until about 10 p.m. The gathering meets up just south of the main pavilion just follow your ears and watch for the swelling crowd.

Please note the following rules of etiquette that need to be observed at the Drum Circle so that all can enjoy the experience: the inside of the drum circle is for participants only, not for people standing around.

Feel free to enter the circle, take a picture and dance, but always keep moving. Never play someone’s drum without getting clearance from the owner. Always ask before borrowing other people’s property, especially hula hoops.

Flash photography and bright video lights are distracting, so photograph during daylight or use a night vision camera. And finally, please do not drink alcohol or smoke inside the circle and respect our beach by placing all trash in the appropriate receptacles.

Photo by Emy Stein.

2

4

1: Gunner, from WI. 2: Max age 8 from Virginia Beach.

3: Natalie age 4, Robert, Robbie age 6, from NY. 4: Dylan, from CA.

Before you leave Sarasota, you must try this one!

As seen on the Food Network Guy Fieri’s “Diner’s, Drive-In’s and Dive’s” show. The TurDucKen “One big bird” Boneless chicken stuffed in a boneless duck stuffed in a boneless turkey with a variety of great seasonings. Alpine Steakhouse just off of Siesta Key located between the bridges at 4520 S. Tamiami Trail.

941-922-3797

Lunch Turducken Sandwich $8.95 and Dinner Turducken $18.95 w/mashed Potatoes, stuffing, gravy and cranberry sauce

20 Siesta Sand

May 2015

941.349.0194 www.siestasand.net

Snapshots of Island Visitors

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Photos by Jaye Clements - Sarasota Photography 1

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Map B #42

ACCOMMODATIONS Siesta Beach Resort ........................Map-A #38A ART GALLERY / STUDIO Calle Studios.........................................Map-B #32 Siesta Key Art Gallery........................Map-D #11 ATM / BANKS PNC ATM............................................. Map-C #61 Martin Funding......................................Map-E #1 Sun Trust Bank & ATM.........................Map-E #4 BAKERY A Taste of Germany............................Map-C #53 Meany’s Mini Donuts......................... Map-C #24 BARS & NIGHTCLUBS Blase Café.............................................Map-A #38 Blu Que Island Grill..........................Map-C #57 Daiquiri Deck Raw Bar................Map-B #42-43 Gilligan’s...............................................Map-B #33 Siesta Key Oyster Bar........................ Map-B #45 The Beach Club....................................Map-D #22 The Cottage.......................................... Map-C #58 The Hub-Baja Grill..............................Map-D #59 BOOK STORES Used Book Heaven...............................Map-B #48 COFFEE SHOPS Lelu’s Coffee Lounge...........................Map-B #31 The Local Bean................................... Map-D #62 DRUG & HARDWARE Davidson’s Drugs................................Map-D #65 Village Hardware................................ Map-C #26 FASHION & ACCESSORIES Aqua Beachwear................................ Map-D #12 Beach Bazaar & Swin Shack........... Map-C #28 Blvd. Beachwear.................................. Map-B #30 Comfort Shoes-Birki & More.........Map-D #64 Foxy Lady Fashions........................... Map-A #40 Gidget’s Coastal Provisions.............Map-B #44 Island Cotton Company.....................Map-C #29 Island Boutique...................................Map-C #50 Island Style...........................................Map-C #53 Lotus Boutique..................................Map-D #66 Reel Hobby.......................................... Map-D #10 Siesta Key Mermaids........................... Map-D #9 Siesta T’s............................................... Map-B #30 Sun Glass Outlet..................................Map-C #24 GAS STATION Circle K Store......................................... Map-E #6 GIFTS & SOUVENIRS Beach Bazaar...................................... Map-C #28 Created Gems......................................Map-C #51 Hurricane Rita’s Gifts.........................Map-C #51 Mount-N-Repair.................................. Map-B #48 Sea Pleasures & Treasures...................Map-C #2 Siesta Key Bead Shack....................... Map-A #36 Siesta Key’psakes................................ Map-B #29 Siesta Key Outfitters.........................Map-D #11 Siesta Key University.......................... Map-B #36 HEALTH & FITNESS Indep. Lifestyle Solutions ................ Map-D #10 Siesta Key Fitness..............................Map-B #73 Studio Rubylakes................................ Map-B #49 ICE CREAM/TREATS Big Olaf Creamery..............................Map-C #52 Ciao Gelato...........................................Map-C #50 Siesta Key Sweet Shop......................... Map-D #9 SubZero Ice Cream Yogurt............... Map-D #16 Sunni Bunni Frozen Yogurt...............Map-C #53 INTERNET / WiFi SERVICES Davidson Drugs................................. Map-D #65 Internet Cafe......................................... Map-D #9 Lelu Coffee Lounge............................. Map-B #31 The Local Bean.................................... Map-D #62 Map C #61

JEWELRY Created Gems......................................Map-C #51 Michael & Co. Jewelers...................... Map-B #29 Mount -N- Repair Jewelers................ Map-B #48

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www.siestasand.net 4

941.349.0194

May 2015

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Island Visitor Publishing, LLC

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1: Marshall 10 months, Carlton & Tiffani from Ohio. 2: Natalie age 10, Amber, Michael age 12 from NY. 3: Cameron, Annabelle both age 2 from Lakeland, FL. 4: Jason, Anthony age 5, Julie, Barbara, Ava age 1 1/2, Robert from NY. 5: Susi, Riley age 3, Rich from CT. 6: Hunter age 6, Tasha from Nova Scotia (Canada) 7: Hunter age 6 from Nova Scotia (Canada).

8: Alyssa, Nate & Khat from Orlando. 9: Kyle, Gunner age 3 from WI.

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

941-554-4242

LIQUOR STORES / FINE WINES Gabbiano’s Wine Club....................... Map-D #70 Gilligan’s.............................................. Map-B #33 Siesta Key Wines............................... Map-C #61 The Beach Club................................... Map-D #22 MAILING - SHIPPING UPS store............................................. Map-A #41 US Post Office..................................... Map-D #65 MARKETS/FOOD STORES 7-11 Store.............................................. Map-B #46 Circle K Store......................................... Map-E #6 Siesta Market........................................Map-C #25 MASSAGE Hands of Light Massage.................... Map-B #35 Massage Experience Siesta Key......Map-D #62 Massage Therapy.................................. Map-E #1 Siesta Key Massage Ctr......................Map-D #9 MEDICAL - DENTAL Sarasota Medical Ctr.......................... Map-D #63 Siesta Key Physical Therapy............. Map-D #20 MISCELLANEOUS Chamber of Commerce..................... Map-D #67 Roberti Enterprises............................ Map-A #39 Sheriff’s Office...................................... Map-D #9 Tarot Card Reading & Gifts...............Map-C #50

Bringing you quality and comfort for more than 30 years!

Birkenstock & More 5128 Ocean Blvd. Siesta Village

941-346-7425 www.rickscomfortshoes.com

PROFESSIONAL SERVICES CG Designs...........................................Map-E #1 Edward Jones Investments............... Map-D #68 Smith Architects.................................. Map-E #74 REAL ESTATE / RENTAL SERVICES Coldwell Banker Realty..................... Map-D #20 Horizon Realty.................................... Map-B #34 Island Homes.......................................Map-C #51 Key Realty.............................................Map-E #5 Michael Saunders Realty..................Map-E #72 Re/Max Alliance Group................... Map-D #60 ReMax Tropical Sands....................... Map-D #67 Robasota Rentals & Real Estate..... Map-A #39 Siesta Key Realty.................................. Map-D #9 Waterside Realty.................................Map-C #29 RESTAURANTS / CAFES 314 II, Craft Beer board Room........... Map-A #37 A Taste of Germany.......................... Map-C #53 Another Broken Egg..................Map-C #54 & 55 Beach Bites..........................................Map-D #16 Blase Café............................................ Map-A #38 Blu Que Island Grill......................... Map-C #57 Bonjour French Cafe...........................Map-C #47 Café Gabbiano.................................... Map-D #71 Daiquiri Deck Raw Bar............... Map-B #42-43 Eat Here Restaurant.....................Map-D #17-18 Flavio’s Brick Oven & Bar.................. Map-B #29 Flavio’s Italiano Ristorante................ Map-B #30 Gilligan’s Island Bar & Grill.............. Map-B #33 Jo To’s Japanese Restaurant...............Map-C #47 LeLu’s Coffee Bar................................ Map-B #31 Lobster Pot.......................................... Map-C #23 Napoli’s Italian Restaurant................Map-C #53 Old Salty Dog Rest. & Pub................... Map-E #2 Señor Siesta......................................... Map-D #69 Siesta Key Oyster Bar........................Map-B #45 Solorzano Bros. Pizzeria.................... Map-D #15 Subway Sandwiches........................... Map-B #30 Sun Garden Café................................ Map-D #19 The Cottage..........................................Map-C #58 The Hub - Baja Grill........................... Map-D #59 Village Café........................................Map-D #14 SPAS - HAIR & BEAUTY Nails By Iris..........................................Map-C #50 Salon Capelli......................................... Map-D #9 Sassy Hair Salon................................ Map-A #40 Siesta Key Nails.................................... Map-D #9 Village Barber....................................... Map-D #9 SPORTS INTEREST/RENTALS CaliFlorida............................................ Map-B #32 Robin Hood Rentals.........................Map-D #34 Siesta Village Outfitters......................Map-C #53

Map C #53

Map D #11

May 2015

ATM & BANKS Bank of America........................................ A-3 #3 BARS & NIGHTCLUBS Capt. Curt’s Backroom Saloon................B-3 #7 Crescent Club........................................... C-3 #13 Sniki Tiki....................................................B-3 #8 DELIS & SANDWICHES Anna’s Deli & Sandwiches.................. C-3 #14 The Beach Deli @ Crescent Beach Grocery..... ......................................................................B-3 #1 DRUG STORES Davidson’s Drugs..................................... C-3 #14 FASHION & ACCESSORIES CB’s Island Outfitters.............................. A-3 #2 CB’s Saltwater Outfitters........................ A-3 #4 Coconuts Fashion......................................B-3 #1 Coconuts / Island Colors..........................B-3 #8 Green Turtle Swimwear......................... C-3 #14 Key Casual Fashions............................... D-3 #17

941.349.0194 www.siestasand.net

CRESCENT BEACH SHOP INDEX

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

“Home of the Orange Squeeze!”

Siesta Spirits............................................. C-3 #17 MAILING & SHIPPING Mail Pack Center..................................... C-3 #14 US Post Office Sub Station..................... C-3 #14 MARKETS 7-11 Store.................................................. C-3 #16 Big Water Fish Market.......................... C-3 #17 Crescent Beach Grocery...........................B-3 #1 MISCELLANEOUS Moving & Storage....................................B-3 #10 Flowers by Fudgie................................... D-3 #17 REAL ESTATE / RENTALS Homes & Condo Rentals........................ D-3 #17 Moynihan Realty..................................... D-3 #17 Re/Max Tropical Sands............................B-3 #1 Siesta 4-Rent.............................................. C-3 #1 RESTAURANTS

Capt. Curts Crab & Oyster Bar.................B-3 #7 City Pizza Italian Restaurant............... D-3 #17 Clayton’s Siesta Grille...............................B-3 #9 Javier’s Restaurant.................................. C-3 #17 Miguel’s Restaurant................................ C-3 #17 Munchies.................................................. C-3 #17 WATER SPORTS - FISHING - RENTALS A to Z Beach & Bike Rentals.................. A-5 #12 CB’s Island Outfitters.............................. A-3 #2 CB’s Saltwater Outfitters........................ A-3 #4 Parasail Siesta............................................. A-3 #2 Siesta Key Bike & Kayak . ......................B-3 #8 Siesta Key Marina..................................... A-4 #5 Siesta Key Parasailing............................... A-4 #5 Siesta Sports Rentals............................... A-3 #2 Siesta Sports Rentals............................. C-3 #14 Waves Boat & Social Club...................... A-5 #12

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

“A Tropical Department Store“

SHELL & GIFT CITY

$

Siesta Key’s Most Friendly & Unique Shopping Spot!

SOUTHBRIDGE MALL

OPEN 11:00 AM – 10:00 PM DAILY

G ATURIN

FE

Homemade Ice Cream

Map B-3#8

941-346-0202

19.95 Reg. To $49.00

SIESTA KEY

Siesta Key’s Largest Seashell & Coral Selection!

Sundaes l Shakes l Smoothies l Coffees Espresso l Cappuccinos

1220 Old Stickney Point Rd., Siesta Key In the Captain Curt’s Plaza

CRESCENT BEACH

!

THE GREEN TURTLE

er Sale up Ladies Bathing Suits

S

22 Siesta Sand

GIFTS & SOUVENIRS BEACH FASHIONS BEACH SUPPLIES BEACH COVER-UPS LADIES & JUNIORS FASHIONS SUPER MEN'S LINE In South Bridge Mall

6525 Midnight Pass Road

MAP B-3#14

green TURTLE COUPON

FREE! FREE! FREE! A Free Tropical Gift! 79 c Just For Stopping In

349-4751

VALUE

With This Coupon

No Purchase Necessary Expires 12/31/15 EXPIRES:7/05/2010

Map C-3#14 Open 7 Days 9 am-5 pm

941-346-1797

“Voted Small Business of the Year

by Siesta Key Chamber”

RepaiRs, sales anD accessORies

HOuRly • Daily • Weekly

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

New 50cc Scooters

KAYAK TOURS ONLY 45/PERSON • BEST PRICE AROUND FREE DELIVERY AND P/U ON SIESTA KEY FOR MOST RENTALS $

6551 Midnight Pass Rd., Siesta Key, FL in Southbridge Mall • Map C-3#14

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

© Island Visitor Publishing, LLC 2012

Bikes • Kayaks • Scooters • Kayak Tours

Map B-3#8

Anna’s Deli 6535 Midnight Pass Rd.

MAP C-3 #14

CB’s Saltwater Outfitters 1249 Stickney Point Rd.

MAP A-3 #4

Coconuts Fashion 1215 Old Stickney Point Rd.

Siesta 4-Rent 6555 Midnight Pass Rd.

MAP C-3 #1

Big Water Fish Market 6641 Midnight Pass Road

MAP C-4 #17

Boatyard Waterfront Bar & Grill 1500 Stickney Point Rd.

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

MAP B-3 #1&8 MAP A-5 #12

www.siestasand.net

941.349.0194

May 2015

Sarasota Filmmakers Shine Films written and produced

by Florida Filmmakers brought energy and sparkle to the 17th Sarasota Film Festival, a 10-day international event which took place in April. Of more than 250 offerings, 30 films—some shorts, some features—were created by artists living and working in Sarasota and throughout the State of Florida.

The eagerly awaited “Paradise, FL” was perhaps the most ambitious feature.

Written and produced by Tony Stopperan—assistant to Ringling College of Art and Design president Larry Thompson—the tale was directed by RCAD alumnus Nick Morgulis. Shot in and around Sarasota and in the fishing village of Cortez, the film tells the story of an oyster fisherman dealing with addiction while struggling to help care for his friend’s family.

The production was impressively polished and beautifully filmed by six FSU Asolo Conservatorytrained actors supported by a crew of 17 Ringling College students and recent graduates.

Siesta Key’s own KT Curran directed “When the Party Ends”, a 17-minute short dealing with the subject of AIDS. A gifted director, actress and writer, Curran specializes in the creation of plays and films aimed at teenagers. She is the founder and artistic director of Source Productions, which tackles health and social issues of importance to young people, subjects many are loathe to discuss.

“When the Party Ends” is about a young man concerned that he may have been infected with HIV. KT Curran developed the script with Frankie LaPace, a 24-year-old writer and actor who graduated from Booker High School’s Visual

Beach Reads By Terri Schlichenmeyer “The Magician’s Lie” by Greer Macallister Abracadabra. Now you see it.

Now you don’t because a good magician knows to hide his props behind his fingers, beneath her clothes, in his pockets. And yet we flock to see that sleight of hand, the illusions, the chance to be awe-struck, entertained, and fooled.

Now you see it. Now you don’t. And in the new novel “The Magician’s Lie” by Greer Macallister, the only thing she’s hiding is the truth.

Officer Virgil Holt figured his life was over.

Just that week, he’d learned that the bullet he carried in his body could kill him at any time. Once the sheriff found out, he’d strip Virgil of his badge; he’d lose his wife, his home, everything he’d worked for.

So when a dead man was found in a theatre basement, gruesomely chopped in half, Virgil almost wished he could trade places.

But then something happened that could save him: Virgil captured The Amazing Arden, illusionist, wife of the dead man. Virgil had seen her stage show. He knew she cut men in two and he had her now, triplehandcuffed to a jailhouse chair.

He wanted a confession but instead, Arden began telling Virgil a story…

Once, long ago when she was

23

Snapshots of Island Visitors

By Diana Colson

Not yet a Sarasota County resident, famed actor/singer/ dancer Ben Vereen soon will be—at least for the next several months.

Usually based in Miami, Vereen is being brought here to direct the musical, Hair, which will open this fall at the Venice Theatre. (Tryouts slated for May 3 – 10.)

Ben Vereen’s career has been stellar. Born in 1946 in Miami, he grew up in Brooklyn and attended New York’s High School of the Performing Arts. In 1971 he earned critical recognition for his dazzling performance as Judas Iscariot in Andrew Lloyd Webber’s Jesus Christ Superstar. The following year, Fosse cast him in Pippin, for which he received a prestigious Tony Award for Best Actor in a and Performing Arts Program. The Musical. He went on to receive an story was filmed in downtown Emmy nomination for his crafty Sarasota at the Ivory Lounge and portrayal of Chicken George in Alex also around Five Points Park.

Haley’s TV miniseries, Roots. Those Besides LaPace, it stars Jimmy represent only three accolades DiPaola, another Booker graduate. out of dozens received by Vereen Statistics show that Florida leads during his lifetime of performances. the nation in new HIV infections.

Although AIDS and HIV no longer carry automatic death sentences, they need to be discussed. Curran is hoping that the film will be used with school groups and various discussion groups so that the subject will lose its stigma and be brought into the open. She intends to increase interest in the film by taking it to the Cannes Film Festival, where LaPace and others in the production will join her.

“When the Party Ends” received a great deal of community support.

The legendary Ben Vereen was Produced by Planned Parenthood featured in Richard Gere’s film, of Southwest and Central Florida, Time Out of Mind, which opened the film received financial support the 2015 Sarasota Film Festival. from the Our Sarasota Fund, the That film was directed by Sarasota Community AIDS Network, and Alumnus Oren Moverman. It dealt the McCauley-Brown Fund from with the issue of homelessness—a the Community Foundation of subject of much concern in our Sarasota County. beautiful city.

Island Visitor Publishing, LLC

Photos by Jaye Clements - Sarasota Photography 1

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©2015, Sourcebooks, $23.99 / $29.99 Canada, 320 pages

called Ada, her mother taught her to dance and she had big plans. Then a cousin ruined everything by throwing Ada off a beam onto a barn floor.

Just before fleeing for her life, she learned of her own healing powers.

As a runaway, Ada took a job as a kitchen maid where she met a boy and fell in love; he took her to New York, then broke her heart. Shortly afterward, she found work with a magic show, the owner of which taught Ada everything about illusion, and about pleasing a crowd. Ada

grew to crave applause.

When the man she loved came back into her life, Ada became Arden, famous for her daring stage shows.

She was in love, and happy until everything changed, all because of a fire and a chance meeting that nearly killed her.

She was a victim. She didn’t kill her husband. She didn’t know who did.

At least that’s what she said…

So you might be a little gullible. You know when someone’s fibbing – more or less. But the one thing you’ll know for sure when you read this book is that you’ve got a winner in your hands.

Set around the turn of the last century, “The Magician’s Lie” proves, like any good stage show, that our brains can easily deceive us: never mind the characters, we readers don’t truly know if Arden is spinning a fable or giving an alibi. I’m still reeling from the possibilities myself, because author Greer Macallister’s conjured up the kind of novel that pulls readers in, shakes us up, and leaves us feeling sawed in two.

That, and the lingering sense of having just been happily duped, makes this one very satisfying novel and you know you want it. Go now, find “The Magician’s Lie,” and watch your time disappear.

Beach Reads Bio: The Bookworm is Terri Schlichenmeyer. Terri has been reading since she was 3 years old and she never goes anywhere without a book. She lives on a hill in Wisconsin with two dogs and 12,000 books.

1: Darren, Anna age 11, Bethany age 13, Jack, from the UK. 2: Katie, Payton age 4, Darren, Deacon age 2, from Ontario (Canada).

2: Jean from NH, Ellie from Riverview, FL.

Pizza Burn

From time to time we see patients with mouth discomfort caused by eating and/or foods. We see burns, lacerations, scrapes and swellings which can interfere with eating, swallowing and talking. They can even break teeth and fillings/crowns, etc.

Usually these discomforts are diagnosed with examination and a careful history. The things we consume can be too cold or hot, too sharp and poky, or too hard. Very occasionally they can be allergenic.

The top three offenders are ‘Pizza Burn’ (also from hot liquids), ‘Triscuit Trauma’ and ‘Chewing Gum’ crowns.

The big healers here are ‘tincture of time’ or repair the broken, loose or fractured area. Any injury lasting more than two weeks needs immediate observation.

Avoid pizza burn? Cut up the first few bites until it’s cool enough to chow down.

Almost all of these problems are preventable and avoidable. It’s up to you!

Palmer Ranch Dental - Richard J. Greenspan DDS Call today for an appointment! (941) 966-5603 8800 South Tamiami Trail, Sarasota, FL 34238

24 Siesta Sand

May 2015

Arts on the Horizon As season winds down, you can still catch some pretty amazing shows in Sarasota!

▪ Exhibition throughout May - Trenton Doyle Hancock exhibition at the Ringling Museum. (thru Sept 13) http://www.ringling.org/events/trentondoyle-hancock-emit-what-bringback-brought ▪ Exhibition throughout May Fan-tastic - a collection of more than 250 fans from different parts of the world. http://www.ringling.org/events/fantastic (thru June 28) ▪ Exhibition throughout May – Beth Lipman: Precarious Possessions (thru June 7) http://www. ringling.org/events/beth-lipman-precariouspossessions

941.349.0194 www.siestasand.net

By Jaye Clements ▪ May 3 at 3pm to 5pm – Enjoy Jazz on beautiful Sarasota Bay - Marina Jack II (boat) with Matt Bokulic & Debbie Keeton, presented by the Jazz Club of Sarasota $35. http://www.jazzclubsarasota.org/ calendar/events/jazz-on-the-water.html?date=278 ▪ May 5 to 24 – The Miracle Worker – A drama based on the true story of a young deaf and blind girl, Helen Keller, and her dedicated teacher Annie Sullivan, at the Venice Theatre. Tickets $28 for adults, 18 for college students, $13 for children. http:// venicestage.com/the-miracle-worker/ ▪ May 7 & 10 – I Due Foscari – HD at the Sarasota Opera House! http://tickets.sarasotaopera.org/ single/EventListing.aspx

▪ Through May Chapatti, An eccentric romance between a man and his dog and a woman with 19 cats, a comedy at Florida Studio Theatre. http://www. floridastudiotheatre.org/show_shows.php?id=446

Tony’s Chicago Beef Company located in Gulf Gate at 6569 Superior Ave. recently opened a second location at 2117 Siesta Drive. If you are looking for a great hotdog, you have to try this restaurant.

▪ Through May 9 - Richard & Betty Burdick Reading Series – at Florida Studio in the Keating Theatre. http://www.floridastudiotheatre.org/ show_shows.php?id=463

▪ Through May 17 – Spunk at the West Coast Black Theatre Troupe. (adult) http://westcoastblacktheatre. org/index.php/performances/spunk ▪ Through May 22 – Embracing our Differences An outdoor Art Exhibit at Island Park & Riverwalk in Bradenton. For more information go to: www. embracingourdifferences.org or on Facebook at https:// www.facebook.com/EmbracingOurDifferences ▪ Through May 30 at 7:30pm – Mixed Nuts every Wednesday, Brown’s Lab, live Improv by students at the Florida Studio Theatre – tickets are $5, call the FST Box Office at 941-366-9000. http://www. floridastudiotheatre.org/show_shows.php?id=453

▪ May 9 at 7:30pm. Orchestra in the Outfield, starring American Idol, Syesha Mercado, performing with the Sarasota Orchestra in an Outdoor Pops concert, at the Ed Smith Stadium, fireworks to follow. http://www.sarasotaorchestra.org/special-events/ orchestra-in-the-outfield ▪ May 9 & 10 - A Romp with Gilbert & Sullivan, An Artist Series Concert at the Asolo. Tickets are $25 to $45. http://www.ringling.org/events/romp-gilbertsullivan ▪ May 16 at 7pm. Coppelia presented by the Diane Partington Studio of Classical Ballet presents a comic ballet. http://tickets.sarasotaopera.org/single/ PSDetail.aspx?psn=1974 ▪ May 18 International Museum Day at Ringling Museum – FREE!!! admission to the Museum of Art! http://www.ringling.org/events/internationalmuseum-day

▪ May 1 to May 24 - Luck Be a Lady: The Iconic Music of Frank Loesser at the Asolo. http://tickets. asolorep.org/single/eventDetail.aspx?p=749 ▪ May 1 & 2 – Sarasota Ballet presents at the Sarasota Opera House - The Ballets Russes - A tribute to Nijinsky. Tribute to Nijinsky http://www.sarasotaballet.org/events/theballets-russes

▪ May 21 – 5pm to 8pm - Ringling by the Bay – Live music & dancing, the Bolger Campiello – this event is included with admission to Art After Five – Music

by Big Night Out. Admission is $10. http://www. ringling.org/events/ringling-bay

▪ May 1 & 2 - PoetryLife Weekend - Learn, Love, and Live poetry at the Florida Studio Theatre in the Goldstein Cabaret. http://www.floridastudiotheatre. org/show_shows.php?id=459

▪ May 25 - 11am to 7pm - Myakka Blues Festival –Annika Chambers at 5:30 pm, Bodie Valdez 11am, Back Track Blues Band 12:15pm, Elle Lee and Blue Fury 2pm, Josh Rowand - Pitbull of Blues Band 3:45pm at Snook Haven 5000 East Venice Ave. Venice http://myakkablues.com/ ▪ May 28 at 7pm. Julius Caesar – HD at the Sarasota Opera House. http://tickets.sarasotaopera.org/ single/EventListing.aspx ▪ May 29, 30, 31 - Woody Sez: The Life and Music of Woody Guthrie at the Asolo (Mertz Theatre) continues thru June 21. http://asolorep.org/shows/woody-sez-the-lifeand-music-of-woody-guthrie/2014-2015 ▪ May 2 & every Saturday Out of Bounds, comedy competition – Brown’s Lab at the Florida Studio Theatre. http://www.floridastudiotheatre.org/ show_shows.php?id=450 ▪ May 2 & 3 - Trumpet Invasion at the Asolo Brandon Ridenour, trumpet, Mara Bonde, soprano, Rich Ridenour, piano. http://www.ringling.org/ events/trumpet-invasion-brandon-ridenour-trumpetmara-bonde-soprano-rich-ridenour-piano

Looking for a Great Hotdog?

▪ May 30, 31 - 7:30pm. Adrienne Danrich, vocalist & Djordje Nesic, piano, An Artist Series Concert, at the Asolo. Tickets are $35 to $45 http://www.ringling. org/events/adrienne-danrich-vocalist-djordje-nesicpiano ▪ May 31 at 1:30pm. Benvenuto Cellini – HD at the Sarasota Opera House. http://tickets.sarasotaopera.org/single/ EventListing.aspx

Here are what the folks are saying about this unique place from Trip Advisor and Yelp.

from northern Virginia, the pickings have been slim. And thus I’ve been looking for a good hotdog for years.

I had a really strong one a few years back at a little place outside of Boston but it’s been rough going ever since.

Enter Tony’s. This place puts together FANTASTIC chili dogs.

I had almost forgotten what a good hotdog tastes like. The bun, hotdog and chili were all fantastic. You won’t get better anywhere.

Since the hotdog was so good I had to give the hamburger and Italian meat a go also - both fantastic. Oh, and their French fries=amazing. Unless you are vegan GO!

“Very good Chicago Dog and Fries”

Even though I am not a Chicago native, I love a good “High-Five!”

Chicago Dog. Yes, I like a hot I just finished the Italian Beef, dog topped with a salad. I was and I swear I’m sad because very pleased to find Tony’s. Not there’s nobody around right now a fancy place but good food. good to high-five. friendly service and fair prices. In The period that I lived in an area with a lot of unique little Chicago was back when there shops, bars, etc. A good find in was a Comiskey Park; I definitely my book frequented Portillo’s regularly, but there was always something “Really hit the spot” about Portillo’s at that point I have been longing for a real that struck me as just awfully Chicago dog for years and found commercial, polished, just a it here. It does not get better than bit too mechanical and perfect. this! And the fries that come Portillo’s was excellent, but it just with it are great too---fresh real didn’t seem to have the heart and potatoes with skin. Great find in soul of that little greasy spoon on Sarasota south Wabash Ave. that I used to go to in my late teens, or, say, The “Golden Dive!!!!!”

Wiener’s Circle, although I’m not

What a great little place, built big on char-dogs.

You will find an authentic around Chicago sports figures Chicago hot dog at Tony’s and food. I thought the food Chicago Beef, and you will was great. Now the Italian beef definitely find some of that heart sandwich was amazing with and soul I was talking about; I gravy on the side. The roast beef knew it the moment Tony told melted in your mouth and dipped me the pops were in the fridge. in gravy was even better... The They even have a Jewel/Oscar fries were done to perfection poster of the Chicago Bears from and fresh hand cut fries. Also, 1986, which is remarkably similar owner’s son Gusieppe was an to the one I got when I was a kid; awesome host and had good conversations.

I couldn’t stop staring at it.

“Just what I needed...”

First of all let me say I love fine dining as much as the next person. But we all know that sometimes there is nothing better than a damn good hotdog. Being

“Love it!”

Coming off of Siesta Key this place is casual, no pretenses, good burger and fries at a fair price.

And cold beer to rinse it all down.

I’m a happy camper.

www.siestasand.net

941.349.0194

Discover Gulf Gate:

With our map, located below, you’ll be able to navigate your way to our featured shops with ease. Oh Mamma Mia! (GG4) Offers a truly unique dining experience with dinner shows

by Chef Giuseppe Urbano. Enjoy the family ambiance as you watch him prepare an authentic Italian regional dish with fresh ingredients just for you. Fine dining, great atmosphere at casual dining prices. Reservations highly recommended.

Gulf Gate Golf Course – Conveniently located just a stones throw from the Gulf Gate Shops, this 27 hole Executive Course offers men’s and women’s rental clubs. You can start your day with a round of golf, enjoy a bite to eat at the many wonderful restaurants or simply relax with a pint of ale at the pub before you head out to explore the many fine shops. Moments In Time Photography (G-28) specializes in several different photography services including Siesta Key Beach portraits starting at just $49 and wedding beginning at $495.

Check out their website: www. sarasotaphotos.com or visit their store to see why they have been

May 2015

the photographer of choice for over a decade and a half.

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

Their Deli is complete with huge hot and cold sandwiches, salads, fresh homemade lasagna and baked ziti. And, you cannot leave without trying their cannoli filled with their own homemade cannoli cream or the tiramisu or Sfogliatelle from Brooklyn. Here is where you will find great Italian specialty gourmet items without the gourmet price.

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

Sarasota Brewing Co. (G-4) Sarasota’s first micro brew pub

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

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

Hurricane Mike’s Saloon (M-10) is a little neighborhood bar at 2639 Mall Drive, where everyone knows your name type of establishment and friendly staff. TV’s with the MLB and NFL packages, pool table, and full Florida Lottery games. Happy hour daily from opening to 7pm.

Hours: Mon – Sat, 8am – 2:30am and Sun., noon – 2:30am.

© Island Visitor Publishing, LLC 2012

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

The Shop SRQ (G-2) offers flat-tops, fades, tapers, blowouts, razor cuts, and straight razor shaves. Owners, Erick and Dawn use a back to basics approach to grooming with a precise attention to personal detail. Their commitment to excellence has provided them with many loyal customers. They welcome the opportunity to earn your trust.

Hours: Tues. – Fri. 8:30am – 6pm, Sat., 8:30am – 3pm. Closed on Sundays and Mondays. 6625 Gateway Ave, 941-626-4894.

At the original Word of Mouth Restaurant (G-31), every seemingly insignificant detail receives special attention from the warm, inviting decor to each specially crafted variety of freshly baked muffins to the signature menu items. This small diner is where the locals come to eat breakfast and lunch. Each staff member works hard to make sure you receive the best service and quality food so you’ll want to return often. Take a look at their mouth-watering menu at www.originalwordofmouth.com.

Hours: Mon-Sun.: 8AM-2PM. 6604 Gateway Ave., Sarasota, 34231, 941-925-2400.

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

M7

M6

M5 M4 M3 M2 M1 Iberia Bank

Island Visitor Publishing, LLC

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

25

G-31

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

941-925-2400

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

NEWERS N OW

M-10

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

Daily from open ‘til 7 PM All packaged liquor sold until 2 AM

• ALL DAY-EVERY DAY Mike’s Bud Select Brew - $1.50/Pints • Pool TableGolden Tee Megatouch FREE RIDES! • 12 TV’s with MLB and NFL ticket sports package • All Florida lottery games • Smokers Welcome!

S7 S6 S5 S4 S3 S2 S1

2639 Mall Drive

GG1 GG2 GG3 GG4 GG5 GG6 GG7 GG8 GG9 GG10 GG11 GG12 GG13 GG14 GG15 GG16 GG17 GG18 GG19 GG20 GG21 GG22 GG23 GG24 GG25 GG26 GG27 GG28 GG29 GG30 GG31 GG32 GG33 GG34 GG35 GG36 GG37 GG38 GG39 GG40 GG41 GG42 GG43 GG44 GG45 GG46 GG47 GG48 GG49 GG50 GG51 GG52 GG53 GG54

941-923-9827 Mon.-Sat. 8 AM-2:30 AM Sun. 12 PM-2:30 AM

G-4

PICCOLO

THESHOPSRQINC.

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

SRQ

Italian Market & Deli

G-2

“Straight Razor Shaves”

Combined 25+ Years Experience

941.626.4894 / 941.536.1656

Hot or Cold

Tonsorial Artistry

& Vegetarian Sandwiches

by

ERICKANDDAWNSBARBERSHOP.COM

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

G-47 GG-46

Specialty Italian gourmet items without the gourmet price

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

941-923-2202

www.PiccoloMarket.com

6625 Gateway Ave.

Tonsorial Artistry

by Erick & Dawn

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

S-16 GG-4

26 Siesta Sand

May 2015

941.349.0194 www.siestasand.net

Who’s Playing Tonight

By Mike Sales

|An interview with Frankie Catalina I began seeing the name “Frankie Catalina” on show posters featuring a picture of him and his pan when I first started pitching gigs in the area. In fact, the more tropical the venue, the more likely Frankie’s name would be on the bill.

It’s no wonder, because I’ve since come to know him as, the guy they call when looking for a real steel drum player.

His website has countless

testimonials and his calendar is filled nearly everyday.

We spoke over the phone one afternoon in between gigs…

Caribbean, but I really developed my love for the instrument during the 11 years, I played on the cruise ships.

WPT: Where are you originally from?

Frankie: Growing up, I lived mostly in St Louis and Los Angeles, here in the USA, but lived in Trinidad, for a while when I was a kid.

WPT: How long did it take you to learn the steel pan…did you have to take lessons?

Frankie: No, I’m self-taught. I took to it fairly quickly, because I already had a solid foundation of music theory, from my experience with other instruments. It didn’t take long to learn some simple songs and build my repertoire and develop my own style from there.

WPT: When did you start playing music?

Frankie: I began playing guitar and piano at an early age. I started out playing in bands and then went solo in the mid-90’s, when I got a gig as a piano player on a cruise ship.

WPT: Did you live in Los Angeles to pursue music?

Frankie: I spent a lot of time there as a kid, but moved back for music, years later. I played in bands there. One of them was called, “Working Class”. We played all of the clubs around L.A. and the area, as well as 3 months in Hawaii.

WPT: How did you land the gig on the cruise ships?

Frankie: Someone literally discovered me at a gig, after I’d gone solo as a keyboard player.

They referred me to someone they knew, who booked talent for cruise ships, so I followed up and got hired onto the rotation of playing for the Norwegian Cruise Line and Celebrity Ships.

WPT: When were you first introduced to the steel drums?

Frankie: The steel “pan”, as its called in Trinidad impressed me early in life; when we lived in the

CLUB

MONDAY

In the Village 941‐349‐9822

BLU QUE ISLAND GRILL In the Village

941‐346‐0738 DAIQUIRI DECK RAW BAR In the Village

941‐349‐8697 GILLIGANS

In the Village 941‐346‐8122

Scott Curts (3‐7pm)

SIESTA KEY OYSTER BAR (SKOB) In the Village

941‐346‐5443

THE BEACH CLUB In the Village 941‐349‐6311

THE COTTAGE In the Village 941‐312‐9300

THE HUB‐BAJA GRILL In the Village 941‐349‐6800

BACKROOM SALOON @ CAPT. CURTS Crescent Beach Shops

SNIKI TIKI @ CAPT CURTS

941‐921‐6200

TUESDAY

Live Music 6‐10pm

WEDNESDAY

941‐966‐1901

WPT: Where do you see your career going from here?

Frankie: I can honestly say that between the weekly gigs, the

Enjoy our cadre of outstanding musicians

Live Music 6‐10pm

THURSDAY Live Music 6‐10pm

Billy Lyon (3‐7pm)

Noel Harris (3‐7pm)

FRIDAY

Live Music (6‐10pm)

Acoustic Open Mic w/ Nally & Egglefield 6‐10pm

Ben Hammond 7‐11pm

Open mic night 7‐11pm

Kettle of Fish 7‐11pm

Berry Oakley’s Skylab 7‐11pm

TGIM

Kettle of Fish 9pm‐midnight

DJ Rev Kev 10pm – 2am

Live Band 8/9pm‐Midnight

Live Music 6‐9pm

Live Music 6‐9pm

Live Music 6‐9pm

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

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

Nick LeValley 6‐10pm

Sunny Jim 6‐10pm

RPM 6‐10pm

1‐5pm Live Music

6‐10pm: Live Music

6‐10pm: Live Music

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

1‐4 ‐ Live Music

Live Music 6‐10pm DJ 10pm – 2am

Live Music 6 ‐10pm

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

RPM 6‐10pm DJ 10pm – 2am

Swamp Donkie 2‐ 6pm Rising Tide 8pm – 12am

SUNDAY

Live Music 6‐10pm

Spark Notes (3‐7pm) DJ TJ (10pm)

Patrick 6‐10pm DJ 10pm – 2am

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

SATURDAY

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

Eddie James Jazz Band 6‐10pm

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

Dana & Co 2‐6pm Mike Tozier 8pm – 12am

TBA – 2 pm Tozier – 5pm Chris Otto ‐ 10pm

Live Band 8 – 11pm DJ 11‐2am

Live Band 8 –11pm DJ 11pm‐2am

Democracy (Reggae) 10pm‐2am

Live Music 7‐10pm

Live Music 7‐10pm

Live Music 7‐10pm

Live Music 6‐9pm

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

Live Music 1 – 4pm

4:30 – 7:30pm 8:30 –midnight

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

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

Karaoke 9pm – 1am

Karaoke 9pm – 1am

Chris Otto/TBA 6‐10pm

Tommy Rox 6‐10pm

Paul Duffy 6‐10pm

Larry Williams 5‐9pm

(Reggae Music)

Live Music 4‐8pm

Live Music 4‐8pm

Karaoke 9pm ‐1am Chris Otto 6‐10pm

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

Live Music 4‐8pm

CASEY KEY FISH HOUSE 801 Blackburn Pt. Rd, Osprey

BluQue Island Grill is located at 149 Avenida Messina on Siesta Key and features live music all day, 7 days a week.

Mike Sales is a local singer/songwriter for more info visit www.mikesalessings.com

RPM 6‐10pm

941‐349‐3885

Over the South Bridge

You can find out more about Frankie Catalina and contact him to play your event by visiting www.frankiecatalina.com

WPT: Have you recorded?

Frankie: Yes, I have released two cds. One is currently sold out and on back order, but I have my self-titled cd available at all of the shows.

Rodney Shenk 6‐10pm

In the Village 941‐346‐5358

BOATYARD BAR & GRILL

WPT: What can an audience expect to hear at your show?

Frankie: I draw music from genres relevant to the audience in the room. For an older group, I’d play “Yellow Bird” and “Harry Bellefonte” stuff. If they are a bit younger, I’ll play Jimmy Buffett and Bob Marley. When a song really strikes me, I find an island beat that will fit perfectly

WPT: What sort of gigs do you play?

Frankie: I play Saturdays at the Bearded Clam (Bradenton/ Sarasota airport area), Monday & Tuesdays at the Daiquiri Deck in Venice and Wednesday, Thursday & Friday happy hours at BluQue here on Siesta Key. I also play numerous private events throughout the year. People really appreciate authentic steel pan for their beach weddings.

12:30‐3:30pm‐Reggae 12:30‐3:30pm‐Reggae 12:30‐3:30pm‐Reggae 12:30‐3:30pm‐Reggae 12:30‐3:30pm‐Reggae 4‐6pm – Steel Drums 4‐6pm – Steel Drums 4‐6pm – Steel Drums 4‐6pm – Steel Drums 4‐6pm – Steel Drums 6:30 ‐10:30pm‐Live 6:30 ‐10:30pm‐Live 6:30 ‐10:30pm‐Live 6:30 ‐10:30pm‐Live 6:30 ‐10:30pm‐Live Music/27th only:Twinkle Music Music Music Music

Lelu’s Coffee Lounge

941‐349‐3885

WPT: How did you find your way to playing on Siesta Key? Frankie: We moved here with the kids about 12 years ago, and I just made the rounds to all of the places that hire musicians… and started getting gigs. I played every week at Tommy Bahamas’ for 8 years and have built a stable schedule of gigs around the area as well.

private events and recording cds, I’m very happy with what I do.

I feel very fortunate and grateful to be able to generate enough income doing what I love and look forward to continuing as long as I can.

to it. This allows me to vary my catalog and include songs by artists such as Paul Simon, The Beatles and other artists who wouldn’t otherwise fit on an island, Caribbean set list.

LIVE MUSIC SCHEDULE

BLASE CAFÉ

Crescent Beach Shops

WPT: About how many songs, would you estimate, you can play on the instrument today?

Frankie: Today?...thousands.

I’m constantly adding to my catalog. It’s important for me to remain relevant to all age groups.

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

Democracy 4‐8pm

www.siestasand.net

941.349.0194

May 2015

Island Humor [ “I have three companies after me,” a man tells his boss. “If you don’t give me a 15 percent raise, I can’t stay at my current position.”

“I don’t want to lose you so consider the raise a done deal.

Do you mind me asking which companies are after you?” asked the boss.

The employee replied, “The gas company, cable company, and electric company!” [ What is the difference between in-laws and outlaws?

Outlaws are wanted. [ How do you know you’re the ugly one of your friends?

When it comes time to take a group picture and you get handed the camera. [ Back when I was about 2 ½ years old, my grandma asked my grandpa to watch me while she ran to the store. He saw that I was busy playing with my new toy tea set so he went in the living room to watch the news.

After a while, I brought him some tea, which was just water.

After several cups of tea and lots

of praise for such yummy tea, grandma came home.

Grandpa made her sit in the living room to watch me bring him several more cups of tea, because he thought it was just the ‘cutest thing’. After several minutes of watching grandpa make a big show of drinking down every drop, grandma said to grandpa, “Did it ever occur to you that the only place she can reach to get water is the toilet?

I stayed up all night to see where the sun went. Than it dawned on me.

[ Punography I tried to catch some Fog. I mist.

They told me I had type A blood, but it was a Type O.

When chemists die, they barium.

A dyslexic man walks into a bra.

Jokes about German sausage are the wurst.

PMS jokes aren’t funny. Period.

A soldier who survived mustard gas and pepper spray is now a seasoned veteran.

I know a guy who’s addicted to brake fluid. He says he can stop anytime.

How does Moses make his tea?

Hebrews it.

This girl said she recognized me from the vegetarian club, but I’d never met herbivore.

I’m reading a book about antigravity. I can’t put it down.

27

Island Visitor Publishing, LLC

...

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

Sniki Tiki Bar in 41.349.3885 9 e g la il V s rt u Captain C int Road, o P y e n ck ti S ld 1200 O 4242 Siesta Key, FL 3

I did a theatrical performance about puns. It was a play on words.

Why were the Indians here first?

They had reservations.

Class trip to the Coca-Cola factory. I hope there’s no pop quiz.

Energizer Bunny arrested: Charged with battery.

I didn’t like my beard at first.

Then it grew on me.

How do you make holy water?

Boil the hell out of it.

What do you call a dinosaur with an extensive vocabulary? A thesaurus.

When you get a bladder infection, urine trouble.

HOTTEST BAR IN GULF GATE...

MLB/College Packages FULL BAR

6500 Gateway Ave • 941.554.8905

What does a clock do when it’s hungry? It goes back four seconds.

I wondered why the baseball was getting bigger. Then it hit me!

Broken pencils are pointless.

When William joined the army he disliked the phrase ‘fire at will’.

Name of Bartender: Kris Hometown: Kalamazoo, MI Q: How long have you been bartending?

A: 12 years .

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

A: A customer who had a couple too many drinks stood up on top of the bar and proposed to his girlfriend.

Some decisions are better made sober.

What is the difference between a nicely dressed man on a tricycle and a poorly dressed man on a bicycle?

A tire

Q: What do you do in your spare time?

A: Beach, Boat, Sporting events.

Finding new restaurants and traveling.

Need an ark to save two of every animal? I noah guy.

A: I am the social director at Captain Curt’s!

He drove his expensive car into a tree and found out how the Mercedes bends.

Q: How would you describe where you work?

A: The Sniki Tiki is fun, easy-going, great staff, good food and drinks.

Chill place to listen to live entertainment.

I’d tell you a chemistry joke but I know I wouldn’t get a reaction.

Q: How would you describe yourself?

Q: When’s the best time to see you?

A: Saturday nights at the Tiki Bar. Make sure to ask me how tall I am.

28 Siesta Sand

May 2015

941.349.0194 www.siestasand.net

Notes from the Island Fishmonger

By Scott Dolan

We have all heard of and eaten the well-known and popular Florida Gulf fish such as our Groupers, Snappers and Mahi-Mahi. 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, African Pompano, Barracuda, Blacktip Shark, 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

Off Key

Water World

Captain Jim Klopfer Adventure Charters 941-371-1390

Captain Klopfer with a tarpon.

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.

My favorite Cobia Recipe: Appetizer and/or Cobia Burritos and Tacos.

1. Slice a few thin cuts of your Cobia and eat it raw as an appetizer sashimi style.

Dipping it in soy sauce and/or wasabi is acceptable.

2. Drink a beer.

3. Brush the Cobia with olive oil, squeeze fresh lemon juice on it, salt and pepper to taste then broil or grill it for 12 to 15 minutes. Don’t overcook it.

4. While the fish is cooking prepare your burrito filings such as lettuce, minced onions, chopped tomatoes, olives, sliced avocados and drink a beer.

5. Pack the hot fish and ingredients into a warm burrito or taco wrap, slather with salsa, top with fresh, rough chopped cilantro and serve.

6. Drinking another beer is optional.

Live well.....Eat fish.

Scott

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 should be outstanding in May. It has been unseasonably warm and bait will be scattered all throughout the bay. The flats near Big Pass will be productive. Casting gold, olive, and rootbeer/gold jigs in front of a drifting boat will produce a lot of speckled trout. 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. Rapala X-Raps and other 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.

public perceptions by news organizations with an overriding agenda (which news of the Rolling Stone’s discredited story pointed to), reporter Bobeth Yates and her producers instead lamented the fact that by retracting the story, the very “real” problem of sexual assault on campuses across the nation will – in the report’s mixing of metaphors – “be washed under the rug...”

But if the concern is with the problem of sexual assault on campus...a problem that WWSB and its sources reported is so widespread that 1-in-5 college women are victims – then why not report on a real example of a local sexual assault at one of our nearby colleges or from one up the road in Tampa? By hanging the coverage on a discredited example from a campus four states and a thousand miles away, the story itself loses credibility.

With thousands of students attending classes on local campuses, a committed effort should uncover at least one person with the requisite tenacity and courage to tell his or her story – either on-the-record or off. If not, then, well, there is no

story.

In their defense – despite the story being an abysmal failure – the editors of Rolling Stone could at least say they thought the story was real. Using it after it has been discredited is an entirely different matter – one that hurts rather than helps further efforts to deal with an important issue.

Twenty nine seconds were devoted to the real story of the day (the retracted Rolling story).

Two minutes and 45 seconds were devoted to the issue the editors of Rolling Stone (and producers at WWSB) felt was so important we needed to hear about it even if the facts of the original incident reported were – in the words of the Columbia University report – “a journalistic failure.”

Is this the new, new journalism? “It’s true, even if it didn’t happen?”

Ken Kesey couldn’t have written it any better.

People sense when they are being played. That’s why journalists today are held in such low regard…only slightly above members of congress, in fact.

Continued from page 10

That preference came despite the school board’s own advisory panel recommending the lower bid contractor be awarded the contract.

White’s response that the public doesn’t understand the bidding process and that the “higher” bid is actually the “lower” one struck me as at best dismissive and at worst, as simply absurd, either as to the math involved or to the school district/board’s own inefficiency (why spend the time and resources having a bid scoring review panel if its conclusions are to ultimately be ignored)?

The intersection of government and commerce often ends in “rent-taking” “conveniences” that eschew free and fair competition and confer special privileges on the connected or first in line; such arrangements value relationships and the security of the status quo over even the rudiments of financial common sense. They’re not generally considered to be illegal (though with court challenges some are from time-to time determined to be so)....but

they are almost always costly for the rest of us.

Stevie Nicks Hits the High Notes with Veterans Efforts

After seeing and more importantly hearing the original 1970s lineup of Fleetwood Mac perform in Tampa this past December, I was familiar with Stevie Nicks’ talent as a songwriter and performer. But I discovered something even more important about her recently when I learned that according to the Baltimore USO, she holds the record over the past five years for the most hours spent visiting wounded combat service members.

Says Nicks: “I am most proud of this, of the time I have spent with these girls and boys, that I have sat on their bed and tried to discern what injury they have and how to fix it and what they were doing and what happened and where they came from and meet their mom and dad and their brothers and sisters and cousins and boyfriends and become part of their family.”

Some of our politicians could learn a thing or two about “connecting” with real everyday folks by following Nicks’ lead.

Writing the Headline Before the Story

Kudos to WWSB Channel 40 for leading a recent newscast with a report on the discredited Rolling Stone story about an alleged gang rape on the University of Virginia campus that most now agree never happened. Both the local Chancellorsville, Virginia police department and a review by the Columbia School of Journalism concluded that the story was fake. That was the real news of the day.

So leading their broadcast with that news on that night was commendable. But instead of quitting while they were ahead, the local coverage veered into the same open pit Rolling Stone fell into in the first place: namely the pursuit of a story just too good to be passed up (even if it never happened).

Instead of focusing on the subject of journalistic ethics, or the manipulation of

www.siestasand.net

941.349.0194

Migrating Shorebirds on Siesta Key do to help these birds? The answer is a resounding YES!

miles to winter at the tip of South America in Tierra del Fuego.

During these long journeys, red knots undergo extensive physiological changes. Flight muscle mass increases, while leg muscle mass decreases. Stomach and gizzard masses decrease, while fat mass increases by more than 50 percent, IF they are able to find adequate food.

Surveys have indicated significant drops in the population of these birds.

Migrating shorebirds, especially those that travel long distances, need all the feeding options available to them prior to long flights.

Some birds preparing to migrate have been on our shorelines through the winter. Others may stop to feed as they begin or are continuing their migrations. Often they will be seen in small to large flocks along the shore or along the tidal pool that has developed on Siesta Key west of the Access 5 parking lot.

And, is there something we can

Sarasota Waters

29

Black Bellied Plover

By Allan Worms, PhD., Wildlife Biologist (retired) Photos by Claire Herzog The beautiful bird seen here is a Black-Bellied Plover (Pluvialis squatarola) in full breeding plumage. It often visits our islands and if you walk the beach shore of Siesta Key during May you might see it as its breast colors darken prior to migration to its summer breeding grounds on the Arctic coast. This shorebird is sometimes called a “grey plover” because its colors are so bland prior to developing its breeding plumage.

Watch for it and enjoy the change of colors, especially, as it gradually develops its bright breeding plumage.

Another migrant that occasionally visits Siesta Key is the Red Knot.

This small bird, a type of sandpiper, is noted for its long distance migrations. It is only about 9 inches long with a 20 inch wing span but according to the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, Red Knots (Calidris canutus rufa) breed above the Arctic Circle and migrate in flocks thousands of

Island Visitor Publishing, LLC

May 2015

#1 Watch and enjoy, but keep your distance. Don’t disturb the birds and don’t let children chase the birds. Unnecessary flights may deplete the energy they desperately need to continue their journey. #2. Stay outside of areas that are “roped” off to protect birds that are nesting or attempting to nest on Siesta Key. You will notice such areas marked by signs and pink tape on the lines surrounding these sites. #3. If you see someone with a dog (or cat) on the beach politely inform them that our beach does not allow pets and let them know their pets are welcome at Brohard Paw Park, 1999 Harbor Drive, S. Venice. It is illegal to bring a dog on any Sarasota County beaches except for designated “paw parks”.

Red Knots

Article being rerun in memory of the late Paul Roat/ Contributing writer

|Boating thoughts for the start of “unofficial” boat season Memorial Day signals the semiofficial start of summer.

Memorial Day, May 25 this year, is also the semi-official start of high boating season in Florida.

Everybody with a boat seems to be out on the water that weekend.

Here are some basic things to keep in mind while you’re enjoying what is hoped to be a beautiful weekend.

straight ahead, major rocking and rolling, and a bunch of dummies trying to run me over. I spent more time watching what was trying to run up my stern than I did looking ahead.

The point of this little tale is to watch what’s coming at you as much as what you’re heading at while on the water.

Pay attention.

Everywhere

Life jackets are your friends

Probably the worst time I ever had on the water was coming through New Pass in my little boat after watching the Suncoast Offshore Grand Prix many years ago.

I left the boat race early to avoid the watery traffic jam, as did apparently everyone else. The New Pass channel by City Island is narrow, there are docks that jut out from the shore to the south of the pass and a sandbar to the north, and I found myself in a mass of boats that were hellbent on getting through.

Huge waves, nowhere to go but

The Mae West-style life jackets were a thing of beauty and hold historical significance, but are far from the precautionary devices available today. Today’s life jackets — or collars — are thin, sleek, weigh virtually nothing, and really work.

They don’t even cost all that much.

The latest models resemble belts and suspenders.

OK, so you don’t want to don the vests when you’re working on your tan on the boat. At least grab a vest, size it to fit you, take a big black marker and write your name on it,

|The Rumrunner

Located at Turtle Beach Marina in South Siesta Key | 941.349.3119 www.siestakeycharterfishing.com Captain Joe Bonaro offers more than exciting deep sea fishing opportunities aboard “Sarasota’s

fastest charter boat,” the Rumrunner (941/349-3119). The skipper offers special boat and fishing trips for families – and for families with small children – as well as customized day and overnight trips.

Safety checks

A boat safety check is one of the best things you can do for you, your boating friends and your vessel. And it’s FREE. The afore-mentioned groups run these really nifty checks on boats at many of the boat ramps in Sarasota most weekends. Bob Johnson at U.S. Coast Guard Auxiliary Flotilla 84 said they do safety inspections weekends in late morning at the 19th Street Boat Ramp, Centennial Park.

The men and women with the Flotilla are nice, they don’t bite, but they do tell you it you’ve got a problem with your boat.

Fire extinguisher expired? No good.

No whistle? No horn? Not good.

Safe-boating courses are also a no-brainer for any water-person

Sure, we all state we know the rules of the “road of waterways.”

We’ve figured out that “red right returning” means to take the red marks on the starboard side when we’re coming into a port, and

|Kathleen D Sailing Catamarans

Let’s go sailing, KATHLEEN D Sailing Catamarans, serving Siesta Key from 3 locations, Downtown Sarasota, Longboat Key and Anna Marie Island. If you would like to experience being on the water viewing Dolphin Watches, Sunset Sails, Snorkeling and Shelling call us at 941870-4349 or go to our web site for detailed information www.kathleend.net USCG Certified for 20 passengers.

we’re even pretty sure which side is starboard.

But take the classes anyway.

Coast Guard Auxiliary, Power Squadron — pick one, spend a few hours, and be sure and safe out on the water. Please.

then keep it nearby on the deck. Do the same with all the other regulars who go yachting with you.

You’ve gotta think this through, folks: Boat catches fire, or otherwise has an accident. Do you want to stand there amid the flames trying to figure out how to work the catches of a life jacket before you jump in the water and start to swim away?

Do the life-vest test before you start your day on the water. Ditto for all your guests. For old models, I even suggest you put on the vest and then jump in so you can splash around a bit to get an idea of what it’s like to have a life jacket buddy with you.

More people than life vests? Very much no-good.

And when did you, if ever, replace your flares?

If/when you pass the safety check, you get a nice little sticker you can put on your boat to prove to the world that you’re a safe, responsible boater.

Back when I had my little boat, a few of us were running off north Siesta Key in the Gulf. It was a pretty day, calm seas, and the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission officers were out in force to check on boats and boaters.

We were only three in my little boat with its safety sticker on display when we saw at least 14 vessels flagged down to undergo a little “inspection.” In fact, all the boats around us were flagged.

I slowed, waved, and got waved through by the water cops.

It was a bit puzzling — jeez, they stopped everybody but me? — but of course I had a valid inspection sticker on the console of the boat.

I smiled for a long time.

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

May 2015

N 27° 20' / W 82° 33' Date

Day

1

Fr

1135am

High Tide 1.9

High Tide

2

Sa

1242am

1.5

1153am

3

Su

123am

1.5

1214pm

4

Mo

202am

1.4

5

Tu

243am

6

We

7

Th

8

Low Tide

Low Tide

Sunrise

Sunset

Moonrise

Moonset

0.2

651am

804pm

605pm

521am

737pm

0.1

650am

805pm

657pm

557am

811pm

-0.1

650am

806pm

751pm

635am

0.9

847pm

-0.2

649am

806pm

846pm

715am

737am

0.9

926pm

-0.2

648am

807pm

941pm

759am

2.4

802am

1.0

1010pm

-0.3

647am

807pm

1036pm

847am

2.4

833am

1.1

1059pm

-0.3

647am

808pm

1130pm

304pm

2.3

912am

1.1

1153pm

-0.2

646am

808pm

605am

0.6

703pm

2.0

630am

0.7

2.1

652am

0.8

1238pm

2.2

714am

1.4

107pm

2.3

328am

1.3

140pm

421am

1.3

219pm

Fr

525am

1.3

939am

9

Sa

638am

1.3

358pm

2.1

1010am

1.2

645am

809pm

1221am

1132am

Su

747am

1.4

507pm

1.9

1253am

-0.1

1144am

1.2

644am

810pm

110am

1233pm

11

Mo

838am

1.5

638pm

1.7

155am

0.0

140pm

1.2

644am

810pm

157am

134pm

12

Tu

917am

1.6

821pm

1.6

255am

0.1

320pm

0.9

643am

811pm

241am

237pm

13

We

951am

1.7

953pm

1.6

349am

0.3

437pm

0.6

643am

811pm

324am

339pm

14

Th

1023am

1.9

1110pm

1.6

437am

0.5

538pm

0.4

642am

812pm

407am

443pm

15

Fr

1054am

2.0

518am

0.6

632pm

0.1

641am

813pm

450am

546pm

16

Sa

1217am

1.6

1125am

2.2

554am

0.7

721pm

-0.2

641am

813pm

535am

650pm

17

Su

117am

1.5

1157am

2.4

625am

0.9

807pm

-0.3

640am

814pm

622am

753pm

18

Mo

213am

1.4

1229pm

2.4

654am

1.0

852pm

-0.4

640am

814pm

711am

854pm

19

Tu

306am

1.3

103pm

2.5

722am

1.1

935pm

-0.4

639am

815pm

803am

952pm

20

We

359am

1.3

139pm

2.4

753am

1.1

1018pm

-0.3

639am

815pm

857am

1046pm

21

Th

452am

1.3

217pm

2.3

829am

1.2

1102pm

-0.2

638am

816pm

952am

1134pm

22

Fr

547am

1.3

300pm

2.1

918am

1.2

1148pm

-0.1

638am

817pm

1046am

23

Sa

641am

1.4

350pm

1.9

1028am

1.3

638am

817pm

1140am

1219am

24

Su

729am

1.5

453pm

1.7

1237am

0.1

1202pm

1.3

637am

818pm

1232pm

1259am

25

Mo

811am

1.6

617pm

1.6

127am

0.2

146pm

1.2

637am

818pm

124pm

137am

26

Tu

847am

1.6

757pm

1.5

218am

0.4

316pm

1.0

636am

819pm

215pm

212am

27

We

920am

1.7

927pm

1.4

306am

0.5

424pm

0.7

636am

819pm

305pm

246am

28

Th

949am

1.8

1042pm

1.4

351am

0.6

518pm

0.6

636am

820pm

356pm

320am

29

Fr

1016am

1.9

1144pm

1.4

430am

0.7

604pm

0.3

636am

820pm

448pm

355am

30

Sa

1042am

2.1

504am

0.8

644pm

0.1

635am

821pm

542pm

432am

31

Su

1238am

1.4

534am

0.9

723pm

0.0

635am

821pm

637pm

511am

2.2

©2015 FreeTideTables.com - For comparison only - Times are local - Tides in feet from MLLW

Full

1034am

10

1108am

Phase

3rd

New

1st

30 Siesta Sand

May 2015

Classifieds

941.349.0194 www.siestasand.net

Place your service ad here for $6.00 for 15 words and $.10 for each additional word. Copy must be submitted with payment on or before the 15th of the month prior to publication

SERVICES

SERVICES

SERVICES

SERVICES

SERVICES

ACCOMMODATIONS: • Best Western Plus Siesta Key – AAA -3 Diamond Property, Free shuttle service to and from Siesta Key 941-924-4900, 6600 S. Tamiami Trl., Sarasota • Siesta 4 Rent - Vacation Rentals, from studios to 5 bedrooms.

Serving Siesta Key since 1997, 941349-5500 • Robasota Real Estate – Annual and Seasonal Rentals, 941-9261800, ext. 102

• Massage Experience Siesta Key Open 7-day a week. 5138A Ocean Blvd, Siesta Key, 941-349-4833

Judy Greene 941-350-0451 and Tara Lamb 941-266-4873 with Michael Sanders & Company 5100 Ocean Blvd Siesta Key 34242 JudyGreene@MichaelSanders.com • Your Siesta Key Realtor... 22 YEARS OF MAKING IT HAPPEN ON SIESTA KEY... I have sold hundreds of homes on Siesta Key. Curious about your home’s value in today’s market? Call me for an evaluation BENNY KIMSEY REALTOR® 941.400.7212 RealEstateGuyFL@yahoo.com | www.yourrealestateguy.com

BEACH & BABY EQUIPMENT RENTALS: • ABC Rentals – We are family owned and operated baby and equipment rental and retail store. We provide top quality baby equipment such as cribs, highchairs, strollers and car seats.

Beach rental equipment includes umbrellas, beach hammocks, cabanas and beach chairs. View our complete inventory on line www.abcbabyrental.com 2300 Bee Ridge Rd Ste. 204 Sarasota 941-929-1850

SPORT RENTALS: • Robin Hood Rentals – for all your Siesta Key rental needs with a wide variety segways, bikes, kayaks, scooters and more, free pickup and delivery anywhere on the key. 5255 Ocean Blvd Siesta Key Village. 941-554-4242 • Siesta Key Bike & Kayak – Located on Siesta Key in Capt Curts Village serving Siesta Key, Lido Beach and Sarasota. We offer bikes, kayak rentals, kayak eco tours, paddleboards and scooters. 1224 Old Sickney Pt Rd. 941-346-0891 • Siesta Sports Rentals – Located on Siesta Key, bike, kayak, kayak tours, scooter, children strollers and car seats. Delivery and pickup available, 6551 Midnight Pass Rd, 941-346-1797

FISHING CHARTERS: • CB’s Saltwater Outfitters – CB’s Saltwater Outfitters is an ORVIS Endorsed Outfitter Fishing Charter Service serving Siesta Key as well as Longboat Key, Lido Key, Sarasota and Venice.

Our veteran guides offer exciting Fishing Adventures for anglers of all ages from novice to the expert. See our website: www.CBsOutfitters.com or stop in their store for additional info.

1240 Stickney Point Rd, Siesta Key. (941)349-4400

start to finish, using only the best and most reliable licensed artisans and craftsmen. His passion is delighting his clients, turning their home-improvement dreams into a beautiful reality. Call 941650-9499 or visit their website: www.hawksnestconstruction.com.

• L.L. Armstrong, LLC – A Painting Co. This family run company has been in business since 1978 and specializes in custom painting, removal of virtually all types of wall coverings. Reference available upon request. Call or email: 941323-5074 or armstronglle5@aol.com • Wilson Windows is a State Certified General Contractor specializing in glass porch enclosures and window replacement. They offer only top quality products installed by professionally trained technicians.

All projects are engineered and permitted to meet the new state building codes related to impact, water infiltration and high velocity windload calculations.

Their services include window repair, new custom screens, glass cut to size, and hard to find window parts inventory at both locations. Fully insured and their work is guaranteed. 941-921-1113, www.wilson-window.com.

HEALTH: • A Bridge for Independence provides in home companion services including companionship, transportation, light housekeeping, medication reminders and meal preparation and planning. Call us at 866-2794390, FL License #230517 • Senior Home Companions – companionship and In-Home care. daily living needs, hourly, overnight, 24-hour care, 941-9240494 • Siesta Key Massage & Therapy Center – Relieve all that pent –up tension and improve circulation with a soothing massage or facial by Ali. Call to book your appointment today. 941-349-0408 • Massage Heights -1-hour massage $49.99, custom facial $59.99 – intro offers, 4948 S. Tamiami Trl, 941-927-1030 (See Display ad in this paper)

TRANSPORTATION: • Dollar Limo – holds up to 10 people and is cheaper than a D.U.I or taxi. Call 941-735-4732 • Jonny’s Original Free Ride – The Original Ride the Key Free service on Siesta to anywhere, everyday from 10 AM – 2 AM. Driver tips only. Call 941-9289200.

• Siesta Key Free Rides – Siesta Key Free island shuttle for beach, village, condo and tours – tips only. Electric vehicles. Call 941952-8294 • Sun Ride Pedicab – Eco-friendly Pedicabs. Siesta Key Tours and rides – tips only, 941-343-3400 • Unique Car Transportation provides efficient and reliable airport town car service with an established sophisticated network of communications, concierges and town car vehicles designed to make air travel as simple, reliable and comfortable as possible.

Their airport concierge team will handle travel details. Call 813927-5045 for details or see website: www.uniquecartransportation.com SIESTA KEY AND SARASOTA REALTORS • Your Siesta Dunes and Landings Preferred Realtors,

HOME IMPROVEMENT • Hawk’s Nest Construction Inc. is a certified Class A general contractor licensed in all phases of construction. Owner Mark Hawkins Sr. personally oversees every aspect of your project from

TO ADVERTISE CALL 941-349-0194

Here’s My Card for for Body, Body, Mind Mind and and Spirit Spirit Heal, Heal, Grow, Grow, Awaken Awaken with with Classes, Classes, Reiki, Reiki, Readings, Readings, Healings Healings and and more. more.

2040 Bispham Road Sarasota, Florida 34231

941-266-9250

www.sarasotametaphysicalmenagerie.com

1

$

a minute

A Place Of Metaphysical Healing and Growth Menagerie

Mon.-Thurs.

1½ Hrs. $100 3 Hrs. $200 6 Hrs. $400

LIMOUSINE

941-735-4732

Girls’ Night Out • Birthdays Weddings • Quinceañeras • Etc. Airport Drop-Off • School Pick-Ups Cheaper than a D.U.I. and a Taxi.

10 Added Every 90 Minutes For Fuel.

Limo hold up to 10 people.

$

Friend Us at: Eddie ThreeSixtyOne Limo

941-928-9200

CUSTOM BAMBOO DESIGNS

Skin CanCer LaSer, Botox

RIDE THE KEY FREE

15-20 MINUTE RESPONSE TIME (Based upon traffic)

&

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

1952 Field Road Sarasota, Florida 34231

Amy Fenenga PA-C

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

(Corner of US 41 & Field Rd.)

L.L. Armstrong, LLC a painting company

Daniel 941-323-5074

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

HOUSE WATCH SERVICES, LLC

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

R. BRuce Whittinghill, llc

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

(941) 955-1864

UNIQUE WATER FEATURES

941 525 7762

SERVICING

Siesta Key Beach Siesta Village Turtle Beach

DRIVER TIPS ONLY

Restaurants and Accommodations Operating 10AM to 2AM Daily

www.JonnysOriginalFreeRide.com

SICANBAMBOO.COM

SICANBAMBOOINC@YAHOO.COM

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

Donnarose

941.735.5173

SoulfullyYoursDonnarose

Healing the Heart ~ Reconnecting to the Soul

• Leaf Bagging We Clean • Down Spouts • Dryer Vents FREE estimates on one-time service • Pool Cages or on-going maintenance

Licensed/Insured

941-914-3936

Commercial/Residential

Olde Fashion Barber Shop

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

Family Practitioners • Pediatrics-Geratrics • Urgent Care

(Across from Southgate Mall)

Pierre Nedelcovych, M.D.

Walk-Ins Welcome

US 41 Office 941-927-1234 • Siesta Key Office 941-312-6708

2081 Siesta Drive, Sarasota, FL 34239 Monday-Friday 9 AM-6 PM; Saturday 9 AM-4PM

www.SouthgateBarbers.com

FAAFP FAAUCM

www.sarasotamedcenter.com info@sarasotamedcenter.com

www.siestasand.net

941.349.0194

Places of Worship

Island Churches:

• Siesta Key Presbyterian Chapel 4615 Gleason Ave, Siesta Key, 941-349-1166 www.siestakeychapel.org • St. Michael’s Catholic Church 5394 Midnight Pass Rd, Siesta Key, 941-349-4174 www.stmichaelssiesta.com • St. Boniface Episcopal Church 5615 Midnight Pass Rd, Siesta Key, 941-349-5616 www.bonifacechurch.org

Beach Service:

May 2015

• Point of Praise – (Sat. 5-7pm) Live praise and worship music.

Free concert on the beach. Public invited.

Held the last Saturday of each month on the main beach just

to the left of the volleyball nets.

Contact Aaron Martin at 941-914-3433, to confirm time and location.

Off- Island:

•Temple Sinai, a Reform Congregation (The closest Jewish congregation to the Key for visitors) 4631 S. Lockwood Ridge Rd, Sarasota, 941-924-1802 www.templesinai-sarasota.org • St. Andrew United Church of Christ (Protestant) (In the Gulf Gate area, near Beneva and Gulf Gate Drive) 6908 Beneva Road, Sarasota, 941.922.7595 www.uccstandrew.org

Island Visitor Publishing, LLC

31

Answers to the WORD SEARCH

MarinerWord Search on page 33 www.floridamariner.com • The Superior Word from Answers Rev. Charlie Garrett Page 25 Service starts Sunday mornings at 10am. Bring a friend and share in God’s word.

6512 Superior Avenue Sarasota, Florida 34242

SpringTime in • First Christian Church 7601 ClarkFlorida Road, Sarasota, FL 34241.

941-922-4434 www.fccsarasota.com

•Center for Metaphysical Fellowship Sunday Service at 10:30am includes healing, inspirational talk, special music & spirit messages.

NEW - Healing Service: 1st tues. of the month at 7pm.

2044 Bispham Road, Sarasota 34231, 941-266-8435 www.cmfsarasota.org

Here’s My Card Licensed and Insured

30 years experience

SARASOTA’S BEST BABY RENTAL CENTER CLEAN • SAFE • RELIABLE Lynn & Bob Shaffer, Owners

941-929-1850

5252 Gulf Drive 2300 Bee Ridge Road, Suite 204 Holmes Beach, FL 34217 Sarasota, FL 34239 www.abcbabyrental.com

Transportation for everyone on the Sun Coast Friendliest Ride In Town

Environmentally Conscious Laundry and Dry Cleaning Service

Free Pick Up & Delivery Service from your home or business

Call 941-275-4647

ExEcutivE Shirt SErvicE • houSEhold itEmS • SamE day SErvicE availablE

Premium Estate Liquidators

Do you need an honest, dependable and quality painter/handyman?

Experienced volunteers conducting superior estate sales to benefit YMCA programs for disadvantaged youth.

Since 2000, we’ve offered estate and household sales services to individuals and professionals in our community.

Reasonable rates and great references.

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

(941) 951-1336

YMCA Foundation of Sarasota, Inc.

Martin Parker

painting and projects

941-896-6400

mortndolly@gmail.com 941-504-6375 Sarasota, FL 34239

www.kathleend.net

Encouraging thoughtful philanthropy since 1981.

Thurs. Night

PRIME RIB

FREE Appetizer

All U Can Eat

With A $20 Purchase

1 Per Party Not valid with any other offers.

www.theoaks-bbq.com

WATERTITE

ROOFING & & REPAIRS REPAIRS ROOFING Quality Work Since 1974

Steve Bradley Project Manager

208 S. Tamiami Trail Nokomis, FL 34275

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

32 Siesta Sand

May 2015

941.349.0194 www.siestasand.net

Artist of the Month

By Diana Colson

|Artistic Jewelry by Diana Kahlenberg Jewelry designer Diana Kahlenberg works from her gulf front home on Siesta Key. The stilted structure faces Big Pass in a setting of rare tropical beauty. The home was originally designed by Tim Siebert for author John D. MacDonald and his wife, Dorothy. The view is dramatic, and the building sits atop tree trunks that rise to the roof and are revealed to the interior.

Diana began by making jewelry purely for herself. “I didn’t want rubies and platinum, I wanted something more organic: carved stones, amber, ivory, lapis, blue jade from Burma.” These beads and small carvings were ones she had collected on travels.

People began to notice Diana’s necklaces, bracelets and earrings—all strikingly original.

Eventually she showed her designs to stores, and a business was born. The Sarasota Ritz Carlton now handles her work, and so does the Greenbrier Resort in White Sulphur Springs, Va. It is also on display at Yarids in Charleston, WV, the Swim City stores in Florida, and other fine shops.

How did a little girl from Indiana end up creating such exotic jewelry?

When she was ten, her parents moved to Florida, settling in Charlotte Harbor. Diana loved the tropics from the very beginning.

“Coming here as a child, this was such a romantic place. I could run on the beach barefoot. I could pick wild oranges.” She soon developed a ‘do-it-yourself’ attitude, which she attributes to the fact that her father owned a plumbing, heating, and air conditioning business. She and her brother were forever tinkering with old boats, and taking them out into the giant harbor. Tall and blonde, Diana was named Tarpon Queen in Punta Gorda while still a student in high school.

Married at 17, Diana soon was the mother of two great kids. She was also leaping through career barriers. Armed with her high school diploma yet too young to have a realtor’s license, she started working for Cape Coral Development Corporation.

When she turned 21, she got her license, and soon opened an office for Cape Coral here in Sarasota. Her youthful marriage proved too fragile to last, but Diana never looked back.

Before long, she became a broker, opening her own office in Sarasota at the intersection of Rose and 41. It was called Real Estate Showcase: she ran it for 20 years—first with a partner, and then on her own.

Always an ardent sailor, she met Hardy Kahlenberg—a man with a pharmaceutical lab and a doctorate in Chemistry. Before long they were married. A sailing enthusiast, Hardy had developed anti-fouling hull paint for boats, a paint that served as protective coating Living on Siesta Key, the Kahlenbergs often sailed in and out of Big Pass. As they went by the MacDonald House, Diana would think “Oh, wouldn’t that be a wonderful place to live!” Little did she know that this beautiful building would one day become her home and her studio.

Tragically and prematurely, Hardy died.

Diana worked for eight years building the sales of Hardy’s paints before selling the business to Rule Chemical. She then turned the property into what is now known as Ashton Center Industrial Park, a business her son runs today. Always creative, Diana turned to the arts, making masks, tile mosaics, faux painting and shell collage. Her only formal training was in photography, which she studied with Pete Carmichael, a famed Sarasota nature photographer and teacher.

After remarrying, Diana became a director of Omni Films, helping to produce and market 70mm films, 3-D films, and motion simulator films. The company also built theaters all over

the globe to serve this unusual equipment.

Over the next years, she worked and traveled in Europe, Africa, the South Pacific, China, and dozens of other countries, many far from the beaten track. It was during those travels that Diana began collecting small objects that might be used in the creation of unique, artistic jewelry.

Wherever she went, she used her artist’s eye to discover extraordinary things: a carved snail coming out of its shell carved from a hippopotamus tusk; an obi fastener shaped like a frog carved out of bone. Of that frog Diana laughs, “I love the fact that he’s got this little bow tie and is sitting in a cross-legged yoga pose.”

Increasingly, she returned from travels with suitcases stuffed with tiny objects. Later these miniature works of art would show up in the center of a stunning necklace or bracelet, or even dangling from a pair of ears.

The remarkable Diana K necklaces average $300 to $600 in price, although some go as high as $3,000.

In New Guinea, Diana discovered the beautiful crescent-shaped Kina shell, or Golden Lip Shell, which she used in some of her most dramatic jewelry. She was drawn to large vintage shells which were worn by natives. Today, Pinctada Maxima shells found in the sea grow much smaller. “I just got another antique Kina from Papua, New Guinea. Years ago they were used as currency.

Australian miners gave them to natives in exchange for working in the gold mines. Until recently, you could still take a Kina shell into a bank in PNG, and trade it for its value.”

Currently, Diana finds some of her jewelry components at the big Gem Show in Tucson.

She goes every year and knows which vendors handle the type of pieces she might

Necklace made of vintage and/or handmade beads from Diana’s collection.

Necklace made with an American blown glass tube with cultured pearls.

Necklace made with carved jade with a clasp reproposed from a Hmong earring.

Necklace made with aqua quartz on gold vermeil.

XL Baroque pearl collar.

Diana with long tme customer and friend Ferne Rubin at Ritz Carlton trunk show.

like. She has even created jewelry from old Coptic prayer scrolls made out of goatskin, pounded thin. These leather scrolls are at least 150 years old, and each one is hand-lettered in a dead Egyptian language called Ge’ez.

Additional photos of her work can be seen at www.DianaKjewelry.com and her e-mail is: dkahlenberg@ comcast.net. Like her jewelry, Sarasota’s own Diana Kahlenberg is truly an original.

Long time customer and friend Gayle Preiser wearing Diana K design at Ritz Carlton trunk show.

Professional model wearing Kina Shell necklace at photo shoot.

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Wake & Shake

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

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

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What’s Happening Regularly Scheduled Classes & Events: Left: Bob from Sarasota, Terri and Megan from NJ, Linda from Sarasota, Paul and Natalie from NJ. Right: Jason & Laura from PA.

Soulfully Yours Donnarose

Q: Dear Donnarose, a couple years ago I discovered my husband of 10 years was lying about money. We since resolved this issue, and all has been fine, well, regarding money that is. The problem is, I still resent that he lied to me. How do I know he won’t do this again? ~Regards, Brenda A: ~ “When we focus on lies, they tend to multiply. Focus on trust, and matching behavior becomes a must.” ~Donnarose Melvin There is no guarantee that a person won’t lie again, or begin lying for the first time for that matter. Either way, it’s a matter of allowing yourself the gift of trusting your husband. I say gift, because trust allows for a more peaceful life. Keep in mind, trusting someone doesn’t mean you’re naive. It’s just that directing consistent mistrusting energy towards your husband, is the same as sending an invitation to lie again. Meaning, what you think, is what you’ll get. It’s that law of attraction concept.

One way to begin trusting your husband, is to forgive him. This helps release stuck energy within you that’s attached to resentment from the past money story. Equally critical, is to forgive yourself for any self-blame. Like my quote above suggests, the bottomline is to direct trusting thoughts and energy towards your husband, and his actions will continue to match it. If you need a little help with this, ask your Angels.

They truly will lovingly guide you, and your husband as well. ~ ♥

Q: Dear Donnarose, Jim and I have been friends for about 5 years, and recently started dating. We always teased each other a lot and laughed about it. I recently sent him a romantic text and he joked about it. I told him it hurt my feelings and raised my voice a little. After I apologized, he said he didn’t mean to hurt my feelings, and things were fine after that. This happened 2 times now. How do I nip this

in the bud to avoid future incidences like this? ~Thank you, Katlin A: ~ “Friends can laugh and play a little rough. But once you’re more than friends, words need a gentle touch.” ~Donnarose Melvin When you became friends, you developed ways of communicating that became habit. But when the heart gets involved romantically, the sensitivity factor may grow as well. And as my quote above suggests, the way you now communicate needs to be tweaked a little to match the status of your relationship. A good thing is not only did you apologize, but you explained by using effective communication when you said, “It hurt my feelings”, rather than using the “You” hurt my feelings “finger-in-the-face” way of communicating.

This already is progress. Keep in mind, that one of the things that drew you two together is the sense of humor you both have. Be sure to keep that going. Just gently express to him that when he sees you’re being more romantic whether in a text or photo, to pause for the cause, and respond accordingly with matching romantic energy. After some practice, I have a hunch you two will be expressing less apologies and more gratitude towards eachother. ~ ♥ Donnarose Melvin is a professional psychic, medium and energy healer, whose pleasure is to assist clients worldwide. She incorporates knowledge from her degree in psychology, along with her clairvoyant, clairaudient, clairsentient and empathic gifts to guide her clients towards peace and success. Please send your questions to SoulfullyYoursDonnarose@gmail.com or private message her via facebook: Soulfully Yours Donnarose. Donnarose will select questions each month to share with you. She regrets that unpublished questions cannot be answered individually. If you’d like an intuitive reading, contact Donnarose at the email address above.

MarinerWord Search

WEEKLY BEACH CLASSES: • FREE YOGA Mon-Wed.-Fri.Sat. 10am. Classes held between blue and green lifeguard station.

Call 941-320-6693 to register or www.yogaonsiestabeach.com • NIA Tues. & Thurs., 9a.m., Siesta Public Beach(yellow lifeguard chair) Joy Donation: $12.

ContactKathy Oravec at 941-7249719 or Kathyoravec@gmail.com • SUNSET FUSION – Every Mon & Wed, 45 minutes before sunset. Beach access #4. For additional info and to register online go to: www.studiorubylake.com • WEEKLY DRUM CIRCLE Every Sunday about an hour before sunset. South of the main pavillion. You can particpate or watch this weekly gathering dance, hoop, play the drum or other musical instument and enjoy the spectacular Siesta sunset.

• WEEKLY MUSIC ON THE BEACH - Every sunny Saturday, Mike Sales will be serenading beachgoers from noon – 3 p.m. near the concession stand at Siesta Key public beach.

• WEEKLY FARMER’S MARKET - Every Sunday from 8am – 2pm in Davidson’s Plaza in the Village. 5124 Ocean Blvd.

Produce, Plants & Flowers, Music, Art, Organic Skincare and Prepared Foods. Listen to live music while you shop.

On The Beach…

• GREAT STRIDES WALK MAY 2, 8:00AM: Hosted by the Cystic Fibrosis Foundation. This event is a fun, family-oriented www.floridamariner.com event with a healthy 5k walk, children’s activities, food and www.floridamariner.com festivities that participants look forward to year after year. Checkin is at 8 a.m. For additional info Answers on page 31 call 813-374-9041. www.cff.org

Springtime in Florida MarinerWord Search WORD SEARCH

WORD WORD LISTLIST:

Amelia Island April showers WORD LIST Baseball Best weather Amelia Island Bicycle touring April showers Bird watching Baseball Blues BestFestival weather Bottlebrush tree Bicycle touring Championship Golf Bird watching Circle of Life Song Blues Festival Daylight Saving Bottlebrush Daytona Beachtree Championship Golf Firefly season Circle of League Life Song Grapefruit Grow tomatoes Daylight Saving Jacaranda Daytona tree Beach Jacksonville Beach Firefly season Jazz Festival Grapefruit League Kayaking Grow tomatoes Let’s party Jacaranda tree Lime green leaves Jacksonville Beach Panama City Beach Jazz Festival Southern Magnolia Kayaking Spring Break Spring Let’s training party Vacation rentalleaves Lime green Vegetable Panama garden City Beach Wildflower season

Southern Magnolia Spring Break Answers on Page 17 Spring training

Springtime in Florida

• 43RD ANNUAL SIESTA BEACH AMATEUR SAND SCULPTING CONTEST, MAY 2, 8:30AM Children and adults will be competing in various categories for cash prizes in this free event. Registration begins at 8:30 a.m. with sculpting lasting until 1 p.m. Be sure to vote for your favorite sculpture.

For more details, call 941-915-1184.

• GREAT MOTHER’S DAY 5K RACE, MAY 3, 8AM , This event is in its 4th year and is a fun event that the entire family can enjoy together. Everyone is welcome. Registered participants will receive a free Dri-Fit T-shirt, goddie bag, prizes and awards for top finishers in age categories. To register, go to: www.greatmothersdayrace. com/sarasota/ • DIG THE BEACH VOLLEYBALL TOURNAMENT, MAY 16 & 17, 8:30 AM: 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. To register or for additional info, see website: www.digthebeach.com • PORCH LIGHT 5K RACE, MAY 16, 8AM: This run supports The Porch Light Ministry safe house in Florida, a program to rescue and restore child victims of the sex trafficking trade. For more info or to register, go to website: www.runrescuerestore. com And Beyond…

• SIESTA KEY CHAMBER HOSTS THEIR 16TH ANNUAL GOLF TOURNAMENT – The MONDAY, MAY 4TH: Siesta Key Chamber of Commerce has partnered with The Founders Club to offer an unforgettable private outing.

Because the club is typically open to members only, this presents a unique and possibly one of a kind opportunity for Chamber members and guests to play a round at The Founders Club.

Sponsorships are available for Foursomes with Dinner, Single Players with Dinner, Dinner only, Green/Tee Sponsorship and Hole Sponsorship. Contact the Siesta Key Chamber directly for more information at www.

SiestaKeyChamber.com or 941.349.3800. Local businesses can also provide a donation or silent auction item. All proceeds support our local Siesta Key Chamber of Commerce events.

• MOTHER’S DAY ROSE FESTIVAL, MAY 9, 10AM – 4PM: FREE Festival of Roses at the Edson Keith Mansion, featuring classes on rose selection, culture, easy care and sale of Mother’s Day Rose bouquets and Rose bushes grown for Florida. For more information, please visit: www.B-SRS.org or call 941-3586991.

• MEMORIAL DAY CONCERT, MAY 25, 5-7PM: Annual patriotic concert to honor veterans. Bring your lawn chair to Gazebo for concert. No coolers, please as there will be bar-b-q and softserve ice cream vendors. $5.00 adults/ children free. Ample parking.

• Phillippi Estate Park is open daily for leisure activities such as fishing (3 fishing piers), kayak/ canoe launch, shoreline walking trails with photo opportunities and bird watching.

Wellbehaved dogs on leash are always welcome. There is a playground for children and a Gazebo available to rent or use on first come/first served basis.

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

However, you should always call ahead to confirm dates, times, location, and other information.

34 Siesta Sand

May 2015

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Sand Scripts - Opinion/Letters to the editor

A tale of two Passes

By Bob Stein

|Midnight Pass and Big Pass Shoal should have the same outcome If you dig deep into why the City of Sarasota would contract with the Army Corps of Engineers to enhance Lido beach you will find that it’s all about the money.

Consider this: after Tropical Storm Debbie blew through the area in 2012, Lido Beach shrank leaving many structures at risk.

FEMA stepped in and restored the beach to 2009 historical standards, harvesting the sand right off Lido’s shore; the Lido shoal, near New Pass. With the recent completion of this project (March 2015), why would they need another 1.3 million cubic yards of sand from the Big Pass Shoal since the shoreline stretching from Lido Pool to Ted Sperling Park was just re-nourished?

According to the ACOE, The Big Pass Shoal (Historical Siesta

I strongly oppose the proposed Big Pass project As a full time fishing guide, fishing the Sarasota area for more than 30-yrs, I strongly oppose the proposed Big Pass project. This area is perhaps one of the best tarpon fishing areas in the entire state, including the Florida Keys.

I know fishing guides from other areas that are traveling 2-hrs each way to fish this world class tarpon fishery. If the fishery in that area is negatively affected by the project, the economic impact could be huge. The Big Pass sand bar not only protects homes and sea walls on the north end of Siesta Key from wave action but is a highway for migrating tarpon, cobia , etc. Based on my observations from years on the water, installing jetties or groins, may cause erosion to the south and west, causing the rest of the sand bar to the west to disappear leaving Siesta Key and Crescent Beach further to the south, vulnerable. The large area of sand to be mined off the bar will also leave homes and sea walls on the north end of Siesta Key exposed to wave action. Abandoning the natural channel, that is up to 25’ deep near the point, in lieu of a dredged channel, may create an ongoing situation to keep that channel open. In my opinion, the project is bad news for Siesta Key and our tarpon fishery.

Sincerely, Capt. Rick Grassett

Dredging sand from Big Pass As a business owner and resident on Siesta Key, I am against the dredging of sand on Big Pass because it will have an impact on our beaches and economy for Siesta Key. Arlene Esslinger The following letter was sent to Colonel Alan Dodd, District Commissioner Jacksonville District U.S. Army Corps of Engineers on April 15, 2015

Key Shoal) has the sand and it’s close to Lido Beach making it cheaper to harvest. The revised plan is gigantic, placing a 5 foot berm running 1.6 miles with now two (instead of the original three) huge buried groins to slow down the erosion. The harvested sand from the Big Pass Shoal will basically add 30 acres to Lido beach. If the Corps’ plan is rejected, they leave taking their federal dollars with them.

If the Corps’ plan is implemented, federal dollars will cover 63% of the total cost. Once the federal money is flowing, the state will pick-up 50% of the balance, leaving the City of Sarasota needing to ante up only 18.5% of the total project. This will happen every time Lido needs to be re-nourished, naturally as permits are approved.

RE: Dredging of Big Pass and Shoal in Sarasota, FL Dear Colonel Dodd: I was raised in Sarasota in and around Siesta Key and have returned in my retirement. I have seen many changes in the beaches over that time: sometimes there is more sand and sometimes less. What has been and is consistent is that from the Point of Rocks to Big Pass, our beaches have never had to be renourished and Big Pass has never had to be dredged.

Beaches surrounding us have had to be renourished, some multiple times. The current Army Corps plan proposes to alter this gift of nature and take massive amounts of sand from our shoal and Big Pass, some 1 million cubic yards in the first phase of a 50 year plan that could ultimately take another 400 million cubic feet. We are all asked to believe that this will not have a negative impact on Siesta Key. Can you, the Army Corps, tell us with 100% certainty that there will not be a negative impact? Can you give us data from all other like projects where renourishment and dredging was never needed for beaches and a major Pass and where massive amounts of sand were taken without negative impact? Can you, the Army Corps, give us data that says there has never been a negative impact where groins were put in by a pass particularly to areas south of the groins?

This Army Corps plan will have a big taxpayer cost. The cost will be even greater if our Siesta beaches need renourishment post dredging. Don’t help our Lido neighbors by harming Siesta. Find another source of sand. All of us on Siesta pay high premiums for protection in the event of storms and hurricanes. Thus far, nature has taken good care of us. The potential threat from the Army Corps is likely greater than that from natural disasters.

Sincerely, L. Gert and

Diane Erne

Let me take it one step further.

Once the Big Pass Shoal has been harvested for Lido, who or what will stop neighboring Keys and islands from asking for this sand?

After all, as beaches to the north lose sand it flows south hitting the Big Pass Shoal. So as far as they’re concerned, this is their sand to begin with. But, I’m told this wouldn’t happen, really?

Now the County has just announced the hiring of an independent contractor to review the plan. This is great as long as past plans already implemented around the coastal communities of Florida are included in this review. They need to examine what these models were intended to accomplish and how they are performing.

Siesta Key is considered to be the oldest natural island/Key in

all of Florida, based on The Point of Rocks. The Big Pass Shoal protects and re-nourishes Siesta beach naturally.

According to the ACOE, historically, the Big Pass Shoal always had around 20 million cubic yards of sand but has recently grown to over 23 million.

The ACOE stated they need to harvest the extra sand to help the northern end of Siesta Key. The Corps states the shoal will be maintained at the historical 20 million cubic yards of sand level.

Lido wants 1.3, who will receive the other 1.7+ million cubic yards of sand to bring it back to historical amounts?

But what if the Corps is wrong and Siesta Key is damaged?

Who will make sure the shoal is maintained at 20 million cubic yards of sand? Who will stop

I am worried

project, and I do feel that despite concerns, everyone sees the need to repair and protect Lido Beach, but there are a number of specifics which simply weren’t addressed in the presentation. I have a few questions, and will start by asking about one topic, to which I cannot find many direct answers.

1. Would you please detail the logic for the use and placement of the groins, and the choices of groin construction that can be considered.

2. Will these groins prohibit beach-goers from walking the entire length of Lido Key Beach?

Has consideration been given to the fact that many residents and visitors are seniors who may not be able to scale any obstacle or would be endangered by traversing uneven or steep terrain variances. Granted that Mother Nature has created a number of small cliffs along Lido Key Beach, but the longitudinal transit of the beach in a general North/South direction is my concern.

3. Groins are known to create rip currents. Will this happen with the current design and type of groin? Has public liability been considered in potentially creating a deadly dangerous “no swimming” area?

The rudimentary understanding that I got from the meeting was that this “borrowing” of sand from Big Pass will be taking advantage of a natural cycle of erosion that is caused by the southward flowing currents.

Sand deposited on Lido Key Beach will naturally erode over time (approx. 5 years) and deposit the majority of that sand back into the Big Pass ebb shoal area. By dredging the center of the shoal that lies within Big Pass, that creates a natural repository for the sand to accrete over the next 5 years, after which time a repeat of the dredging process will occur – and so on, for the next 50 years.

I understood from one of the presenters that the model which will dredge sand from the center of the Pass but leaves a sand bar to protect the main channel and northern shore of Siesta Key will

I have lived in Sarasota since 1996 and worked on Siesta Key since 1998, and although this is not the first time I’ve heard about Big Pass Dredging, this time I am worried. In previous years, citizens’ efforts have successfully prevented it; this time that isn’t so. The Army Corps of Engineers is applying for permits to move forward with its plans. Sarasota and Siesta Key residents need to be concerned!! This project could have both environmental and economic impact. Taking sand from any one Pass for beach renourishment will affect water current and flow at ALL Passes and can negatively affect navigation. Water quality can change and natural wildlife can become endangered. Now consider the fact that Siesta Key Beach is the number one beach in the country. Just this Spring, the shoal near New Pass was dredged to replenish sand on South Lido Beach and I’ve just seen photos of how North Lido Beach rapidly eroded in just weeks following it.

And the ACOE says this won’t happen to Siesta? How can they be sure? We are risking the size and quality of Siesta Key Beach if we allow the Army Corps to begin dredging Big Pass without all aspects of the project being scrutinized, and independent research being conducted to evaluate the safety of the project.

We as a community need to be very concerned. Fellow citizens, please educate yourselves and get involved. Now. Before it’s too late.

Kaye Kouvatsos The following letter was sent to the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers Jacksonville District, Planning and Policy Division, Environmental Branch. Attn: Aubree Hershorin, Ph.D.

Re: NEPA public meeting April 15, 2015

Dear Aubree, The public meeting was helpful in framing the scope of the

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neighboring islands and others from harvesting the sand?

If this is the most economical way to harvest future sand renourisments for Lido Key, then why not also harvest the sand that closed Midnight Pass years ago for Turtle beach? It’s much closer than the current site located 9 miles offshore, it’d be more economical and would serve two purposes, re-nourishment and an open pass between Siesta Key and Casey Key. But wait, even though this would be a cost savings for Turtle Beach, the state already turned the idea down.

According to Nora Patterson, former County Commissioner, the state not only said, “No” they said “Hell no”.

To be fair, the state should say “Hell no” to this proposal as well. help to alleviate the tidal pressure on that shore by allowing current to flow through the newly created channel, as well as the main channel. It should also contribute to calmer waters in the Pass when the tide is changing.

1. Please let me know if my understanding is correct and expand on anything that may need clarification.

2. I was also informed that the ebb shoal historically has contained about 20M cubic yards of sand, but currently the shoal has 24M cubic yards of sand.

The project should only require 1M cubic yards of sand, so won’t diminish the normal presence of the shoal, although it will carve a channel through it.

3. The impact on marine life was not thoroughly discussed at the public meeting, and it seems that Mote Marine has not been directly consulted for information and evaluation. Is this, in fact true or not? If Mote has not played a major role in helping to evaluate the project, then I most strongly suggest that they be involved in the process and their findings and opinions made public in either case. Since this will be a (5 yrs.) repetitive project, what is the long term marine life protection plan for minimizing any shock or impact upon the marine life that will naturally inhabit the ebb shoal area?

4. I understood from the presentation that all vegetation would be re-located or replanted so as to maintain the balance of food source and environmental and life support conditions that are normal for the marine life that inhabits the ebb shoal. Is this completely true or could you please confirm the plan for this?

5. I live on the Grand Canal, and wonder if there will be any impact to the canals or to the Intracoastal Waterway. Please let me know.

6. I understood that the Corps considers this project to be encapsulated in a localized area and not impactful to any large or extended area outside of Lido and Siesta Key. Continued on the next page

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However, I wonder how that conclusion was reached in such certainty.

Would you please let me know if I am correct in that understanding and how that conclusion was reached?

Not to arbitrarily oppose such a conclusion, but I feel that a thorough EIS would be worthwhile, to further secure the confidence of all those affected.

7. What is the estimation of impacts and resolutions if we were to experience direct impact from a Cat 2 or Cat 3 hurricane?

Obviously you don’t have a crystal ball, but is there modelling that can be done (or has been done) to anticipate the effects of a giant swirling vortex applying suction to the Gulf and the sea bottom that would change/ amplify currents, elevate tidal levels, flood over the Keys, etc.

Many thanks for your efforts and anticipated information that you will send to me.

Yours truly, David J E Thomas, Judith M L Thomas

studies being done to establish a baseline and then periodic environmental studies being required at regular intervals to insure no environmental damage from the construction, dredging, etc. is happening.

How and why can our government agency, the Army Corp, be granted permits under conditions and durations that no private individual or company would ever be permitted?

“Trust us, we’re the government” doesn’t cut it when our natural environment is at risk, when Siesta Key residences are at risk, when our number 1 beach is at risk.

Our government leaders need to insist that the Army Corp of Engineers submit an Environmental Impact Statement.

Mark H. Smith, AIA, LEED AP, Smith Architects, PA

Environmental Impact Statement

I am writing this letter to address the proposed plan to widen Lido Beach by dredging the Big Pass Shoal that protects Siesta Key. As a long time business owner and resident in the Sarasota/Manatee County area, I believe that before any action is taken to proceed with the Army Corp of Engineers plan; further independent Environmental Impact Studies to truly understand what will happen with the dredging of Big Shoal to be done. As citizens and business owners rely immensely on the monetary impact to our tourist industry supplies and we can never be too careful in what we do to “improve” our beautiful beaches. Also, since our tax dollars are to be used to fund this proposed project, why not further research the impact on our beaches to protect our natural resource. At this time, I am opposed to the Army Corp of Engineers plan to dredge Big Pass Shoal.

Keith Martin owner Badger Bob’s Services

I have been following the dredging permit of Big Pass and am amazed that the Army Corp of Engineers does not feel it is necessary to perform and submit an Environmental Impact Statement.

I am equally amazed that the Florida Department of Environmental Protection would issue a permit for the dredging without existing water quality baselines documented.

The permit application for Lido’s 1.56 mile, 80 foot wide beach berm is for 50 YEARS with periodic nourishment to be accomplished at “5-year intervals over 50 years of Federal participation”.

A 50 year permit to dredge an ebb tide shoal and NO Environmental Impact Statement will be submitted. That is crazy.

I’m an architect with my office on Siesta Key. I live on Siesta Key. It is ludicrous for anybody to be issued a 50 year permit to do any work without environmental

To Whom it May Concern

May 2015

Big Pass Dredging I am a full time Siesta Key homeowner. The Army Corps of Engineers has certainly not proven their ability to look beyond the immediate issue.

Because of many of their decisions environments have been changed to the negative.

Wildlife, plantings, shorelines, rivers, have had long range issues. I am totally opposed to allowing the dredging without TRUE in depth studies by an independent & proven organization.

Alix Wexler

Dear Editor, I oppose the Big Pass Dredging due to the uncertain environmental and economic impact it could have to Siesta Key and Sarasota Bay. I respect the fact that Lido needs sand but am not convinced Big Pass is the best supply of that sand or at that amount. Too many questions are being answered by an outdated report model from 2002. I can’t put my faith in a 13 year old report.

The Army Corp will not have to deal with the day to day impacts if this turns into a negative effect to our Island or the Bay. The ebb shoals currently along Siesta and the groins the Corps wants to add are major uncertainties. If or when the beaches on Siesta Key are ruined and the 37% tourist tax revenue Siesta provides the county diminishes what will be the solution?

Wendall Jacobsen

Environmental Impact Statement The Army Corp of Engineers has concluded that the dredging of Big Pass will have no significant impact on the environment based on a 2002 Environmental Assessment.

They are implying that nothing has changed in our coastal waters over the past 13 years!

Big Sarasota Pass is designated as Outstanding Florida Water and is protected by the National Environmental Protection Act.

The Florida Department of Environmental Protection requires that prior to dredging any Outstanding Florida Water that a water quality baseline be established.

Included in that baseline is existing fish diversity and abundance, and submerged aquatic vegetation mapping.

The government wouldn’t permit a private company to dig close to the water without insisting that the water quality be protected and maintained.

Our government is planning on Digging in the water without submitting required permit testing documentation and baseline information!

We must all insist that the Corp of Engineers perform and submit an Environmental Impact Statement before they irreversibly damage our pass, our bay, and our Siesta Beach!

As a business owner and resident of Siesta Key, I ask you to please be aware of the risks that are being taken with our beach!

Cheryl Gaddie, CG Interior Design Siesta Key

On another Subject “Adult Bullying in Paradise or Condo Living” I am a 76 yr. old retired health care professional from Mass. visiting a friend here on Siesta Key for some much needed rest and recreation. I have been visiting the same condo complex for five years and am known to many of its fine residents.

Unfortunately it only takes one or in this case several bullies to cause serious trouble.

This is my story: A resident accosted me on Easter Sunday morning, April 5, 2015 and again the next day.

As I was walking with my two small Shih Tzu’s along the “private” beach located on the property.

I was careful to stay at the mean high water markers because I’d heard that these bullies carry on like this. The dogs were leashed and I was prepared with doggie

Concerns mount over Big Pass dredging Supporters, however, say Lido needs a comprehensive approach to its erosion woes before a strong storm brings disaster to its shore.

In an interview with Siesta Sand after the April 15 meeting, Siesta Key Association Vice President Catherine Luckner talked about how she is constantly awed by the manatees eating seagrass in Big Pass and the other wildlife in the pass. She worries that plans to dredge the pass could “change the water quality and the environment in general.”

Environmentalist Jono Miller spoke at the packed meeting April 15, held at Sarasota City Hall. In the rush to get the project through, Miller and others contend that the Army Corps and the city of Sarasota (a joint applicant on the permit for the project) are not taking a look at all of the potential environmental impacts.

Miller called on the Army Corps to conduct an Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA), which is more comprehensive than the Environmental Analysis (EA) that the agency has been willing to undertake. Miller highlighted ten different factors that should trigger an EIA, under federal guidelines. Those factors include uncertain and significant risks to the marine environment and adjacent public lands near the project area, factors that apply to the Lido Renourishment and dredging.

Luckner said the Army Crops “doesn’t seem to want to do an EIA.” Not only is the EIA a more comprehensive look at potential environmental impacts, Luckner said, but it also includes a process for “more mitigation” steps if the study finds potential environmental impacts.

Luckner also wants to know why the Corps hasn’t considered permeable, adjustable groins such as the ones used on the north end of Longboat Key. This type of structure could have less impact on down drift beaches such as Siesta Beach.

The SKA vice president toured the north end of Longboat with town officials and saw firsthand how the permeable groin works.

“They look nice out there. There is a concrete walkway that goes out to them and the color blends into the beach,” Luckner said. “They are not a pile of rocks. It’s not the same kind of obstruction.” The groins, when adjusted according to a modeling system that has been used in Holland, can alter how much sand is prevented from moving down the beach.

Other critics have warned of legal action should the project move ahead. A group called Save our Siesta Sand 2 has been raising money to fight a legal battle.

Tensions mounted at the April 15 meeting when both sides debated the project.

Lido resident Brian Hunter

noted how federal officials said Lido Key is one step away from disaster if there is a major storm, and delays could risk losing federal funding. “$16 million in federal dollars will not be there forever,” Hunter said at the meeting.

Federal funding has been earmarked, but not yet appropriated for the project.

Peer review underway

As the Army Corps and City of Sarasota forge ahead with their joint coastal permit for the project, Sarasota County is also proceeding with an independent analysis of several aspects of the Corps’ modeling and the overall project.

County officials last month had their first meeting with Atkins, a global design and engineering firm with offices in Sarasota and Fort Myers. The county has contacted Atkins to conduct the peer review.

Laird Wreford, coastal initiatives manager with Sarasota County, said he expects the firm to take about two to three months to conclude the review.

“We want to do a good, thorough job and explore as much as we can,” Wreford said. “But we don’t want something that can linger on for a lengthy period of time.”

Overall, the County

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waste bags as usual.

A woman on the beach started screaming that my dogs are not allowed on the beach although her dog was enjoying a romp in the surf. She screamed at me to leave the beach, as I “had no right to be there”! I ignored her and continued to the end of the beach and back. She followed me in very close proximity screaming insults such as “you can’t afford to buy here…leave”!

She persisted the entire time although it was evident that I was leaving the beach.

I didn’t respond except to remind her that any one has the right to walk the shoreline at mean high tide and wished her a “Happy Easter/Passover!” Her response was to call me a b----!

The following day I was accosted by the same woman but this time she brought along reinforcements. Now there were three residents screaming and following me with a camera. The situation escalated because the two women came so close to me (an inch or two from my face and my dogs) that they obstructed me from leaving and detained me for several minutes.

They threatened to be there every day to prevent me “from ever having a comfortable stroll again!”

I made a police report and am hopeful that an investigation will take place.

The investigating police officer informed me that it is against the law for ANY dog to be on a beach, private or public.

The bullies who enjoy seeing their dogs frolic in the surf but stop others from doing the same are indeed breaking the law themselves.

Let’s hope some kind of action is taken by the condo governing boards and police to assure the health and safety of guests at my friend’s condo complex.

Or perhaps this pattern of bullying and intimidation will be allowed to persist until someone is hurt as often happens in today’s world, unfortunately.

Thank you, Brenda Burke from Mass.

Continued from cover story

Commission-approved analysis will look into ways the Corps project could impact the shoreline, marine ecosystems and waterways from Lido to Siesta.

The peer-review study should be completed “sooner than later,” and the results will be presented to county commissioners, Wreford said. Local advocates are also awaiting the results of the review.

FDEP wants more information

FDEP—which has final say over the Army Corps joint coastal permit with the City of Sarasota— is the next big regulatory hurdle for the project.

And the state agency is not taking the permit application lightly.

In an April 15 letter sent to the Army Corps and City of Sarasota just hours before the public meeting, FDEP officials listed several reasons why the permit application received March 16 was incomplete. FDEP is requesting additional information from the federal agency.

The Army Corps now has to provide, among other information, a more detailed description of which borrow areas in the pass will be used during the initial and subsequent renourishments. The FDEP also wants to know exactly how much

sand will be dredged from the borrow areas.

State officials are also requesting construction and design templates that minimize impacts to marine turtles, and are barring the Army Corps from dredging near 23 historic “anomalies” in the pass.

In an April 9 letter Luckner wrote to the state agency, the SKA vice president requested that permitting officials hold off a final decision on the Army Corps coastal permit application until the county’s peer review is complete and available for all stakeholders’ consideration.

Not just manatees

Kim Bassos, a senior biologist at Mote Marine Laboratory, said there are many other species of wildlife in the pass other than the manatees. “A lot of wildlife uses those shoals,” the biologist said.

Bassos is calling for the Army Corps to log base-line data that can be used later to show exactly what kind of changes the dredging has on the pass.

Debra Lynn-Schmitz, Executive Director of the Siesta Key Chamber of Commerce also spoke at the April 15 meeting.

Lynn-Schmitz voiced concern about the economic impact that could hurt Siesta, in addition to possible environmental risks.

36 Siesta Sand

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The Landings first tear down

By Bill Shaddy

The Landings is a premiere gated community located on the mainland between the bridges of Siesta Key, just north of Phillippi Park There once was a house…

We all knew that it was simply a matter of time before the “Wrecking Ball” would find its way through the gates of The Landings.

After much anticipation the wrecking crane arrived at 1742 Peregrine Point Drive shortly after 8:00 a.m., one Wednesday morning in mid-March. As typical, it was a beautiful sunny morning, the birds were chirping and neighbors were out walking. Who knew 1742 would be “scraped” today?

The machine operator started up the diesel motor and delicately

maneuvered the machine’s scoop above the garage roof.

With the precision of a skilled surgeon wielding a sharp scalpel, the Machine Operator gracefully lowered the scoop taking a large bite out of the roof. There was no turning back... the demolition had begun. By this time a small crowd of neighbors had assembled at the foot of my driveway to watch the show unfolding across the street from my house.

The three bedroom (2,447 sq. ft.) house with a pool was built in 1981 and sold by Judy Greene and

Tara Lamb for $535,000. The former owners had called it “home” for over 20 years while raising two children. Now the house was being demolished to make room for a new energy-efficient custom-built home. In the next few weeks a new three-car garage ranch style house will slowly start to take shape. No doubt we will all continue to watch the construction activity with eager anticipation.

How many of us are trying to guess where and when the wrecking crane will strike next in The Landings?

Before picture of the house.

Sarasota History |Gulf View Inn The Gulf View Inn was built as the Sarasota Beach Lodge on the Gulf side of Siesta key at the beginning of 1925. The Sarasota Beach subdivision had been platted in late 1924 by the Crescent Beach Development Co. and included the area approximately bordered now

by Ocean Blvd., Avenida Del Mayo and Avenida Del Mare. The use of Spanish street names reflected the Mediterranean theme in much of Sarasota’s 1920s development.

Although divided into more than 800 lots, the subdivision was largely undeveloped until after World War II. Perhaps a disincentive to visitors, the road out to Sarasota Beach was reportedly awful sandy, narrow and bumpy. A small item in “This Week In Sarasota” in early 1925 stated that the county, had used a road drag, to smooth out some of the ruts and holes, but the dangerous curves and narrow spots remained.

“This Week In Sarasota” reported the lodge had been built in 16 working days for Traylor and Whipple, a real estate company which needed a place, to entertain and house potential buyers. To introduce Floridian’s to the beauty of Sarasota Beach, Traylor and Whipple hired buses to bring the curious and the interested to Sarasota. What better place to house them than in a company hotel on the beach! This 1925 photo was in the collection of Carlos “Red” Massy, pianist and leader of a band which played at the Gulf View Inn “Lodge” dining room at night. In the afternoons they played at the Mira Mar Hotel (then on Palm Avenue) to attract real estate buyers to Traylor and Whipple’s (and then Whipple and Kenny’s) real estate offices in the Mira Mar complex.

The architectural style of the Gulf View Inn was an unusual mixture. The exterior was

Mediterranean Revival, in keeping with the theme of the subdivision.

The interior, in contrast, looked like a rough-hewn hunting lodge.

The public area was the full height of the building, with, cypresstimbered walls, tree-trunk pillars, a large coquina-rock fireplace and a pool with a fountain in the center of the lobby. Massy noted on the back of one photo that “there were alligators in the pool” when he played there.

By the 1930s, advertisements for the Gulf View Inn indicate a shift in its function and clientele. Instead of appealing to the potential real estate buyer who was in Sarasota for a short stay, the Inn was portrayed as a winter home for families looking for a social life different from that offered by the “transient” hotels.

Steam heat in every room, excellent cuisine and free motor service to Sarasota and, the Bobby Jones Golf course were provided. Wilson K.

Whipple, formerly of the Whipple and Kenny real estate company, managed the Inn. Although the 1925 newspaper announcement promised that a much more elaborate structure would soon replace the temporary lodge, in fact the hotel was used for nearly 60 years. Not until the early 1980s did the Siesta Gulf View Condominiums take its place.

This month’s featured listing in The Landings...

While the inn endured, the beach changed. In the 1920’s there was a wide expanse of sand in front of the building. By the end of the 1930s, waves lapped a seawall near the building. Today, with much sand accretion, the wide beach has returned.

Courtesy: Sarasota County History Center.

KEY SOLUTIONS REAL ESTATE

4804 Kestral Park Cir. #21, Sarasota, 34231

The Landings, a gated waterfront community only minutes to the beaches of Siesta Key, and all that Sarasota offers. Now available, a stunning move-in ready, maintenance free villa located in the highly sought after Carriagehouse II neighborhood. Upon entering, take note of the beautiful Northern Maple hardwood floors that lead to the over-sized and open great room. The kitchen is the center point of the unit and offers a convenient pass through to the dining room which overlooks the living area. A private screened lanai can be accessed from the dining room and den and provides an ideal place to enjoy breakfast. The master suite is large enough to accommodate any type of furniture and boasts ample storage in the walk-in closet. A wood burning fireplace in the great room and a Florida room with AC are the icing on the cake. Lush tropical landscaping surrounds the home providing privacy and the feeling of being on vacation at all times. Carriagehouse II has a community pool and clubhouse specifically for use of the 30 homeowners in the community. Membership to the famous Landings Racquet Club is optional. Don’t wait as this opportunity won’t last long. $349,900

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

KEY SOLUTIONS REAL ESTATE

www.siestasand.net

941.349.0194

May 2015

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Beach Road plans to appear back before County Commission

By Roger Drouin

Continued from cover story

Alvarez recommends a settlement calling for the county to allow the property owners to construct a smaller home, reduced in square footage by about 10 percent, down to 2,779 squarefeet. The amount of pavers would also be reduced by 40 percent.

Alvarez wrote in his March 20 findings: “I am very pleased that after detailed discussions between your staff and the Allens and their representatives involving collection of data, detailed analysis of the data and proposal of several iterations of site plans, an ‘acceptable solution’ has been found regarding the residential structure proposed by the Allens.”

The Allens’ effort to build on the lot goes back to 2013. Some residents in the Village say the outcome of this effort could

impact their properties—altering beach erosion and harming real estate values—and could have a wider effect across Siesta, as 22 other properties throughout Siesta Key are located past the Coastal Setback Line.

In January, 2013, Ronald and Sonia Allen’s plans to build a three-story home were turned down by county commissioners.

Then the Allens submitted revised plans for a smaller, two-story house July 10, along with a new application for a Coastal Setback Variance. In April, 2014, the Sarasota County Commissioners again unanimously denied their request for a setback variance allowing them to build on the lot.

Following the April County Commission vote, the Allens filed a request for relief with the county under the FLUEDRA act.

The county attorney’s office and the property owners’ lawyer were involved in mediation for nine months. During those nine months, Alvarez acted as mediator between the owners and the county attorney’s office.

A threat of legal action hung over the discussion March 31.

County Commissioner Alan Maio asked county legal staff what happens if commissioners “do nothing” and don’t hold a public hearing.

“What you would probably risk,” replied Pearce, “is a lawsuit from the owners of the property seeking the remedy of inverse condemnation, perhaps a Harris Act Challenge.”

The legally-powerful Harris Act often strikes anxiety among some elected officials. The law protects property owners from

Siesta Key Real Estate Report Total Homes Sold 800

who can make the case that a government entity “inordinately burdens” a property, significantly reducing the property owner’s rights and investment potential.

There was little discussion among commissioners, and no talk about either the property or the merits of allowing construction of a residential structure. Commissioners Maio and Hines noted that a “Yes” vote only sets a public hearing.

“My understanding is that all we are approving is your request” to hold a public hearing, Maio said to DeMarsh.

“We would have another hearing,” Hines said.

According to county staff, a public hearing date cannot be set until the Allens officially file a new application requesting a Coastal Setback Variance.

Blooming this month:

Median Sales Price $200K

600 400

$100K

200 0

10

Mar-11 Mar-12 Mar-13 Mar-14 Mar-15

Mar-11 Mar-12 Mar-13 Mar-14 Mar-15

Days on Market

Months of Inventory

200

5

0

$0K

100

Mar-11 Mar-12 Mar-13 Mar-14 Mar-15

KEY SOLUTIONS REAL ESTATE

0

Mar-11 Mar-12 Mar-13 Mar-14 Mar-15

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

Single Family Condos *Statistics provided by MFR MLS

2015 is shaping up to be a possible record-breaker again! The first quarter of 2015 marks the first sign of this, with a 6 percent increase for Sarasota County over 2014 and a 9 percent increase for Manatee county. As for March itself, Sarasota saw a 14.3 percent increase over last March with 1201 closed transactions. Manatee County saw an even greater jump with 20.1 percent increase over last March with 800 closed transactions. At this rate, we are on track to make this one of our best years.

Would you like to grace your garden with an orchid that is bright, beautiful and easy to grow? Choose epidendrum radicans. It thrives in our locale and you can find it blooming at this time of year in such disparate locations as the Tamiami Trail roadway and the waterfront at Ca d’ Zan.

Known as a ground or terrestrial orchid, the blossom usually comes in a bright golden orange but can be found in other shades as well.

It grows best in partial sun to a height of 2 ½ to 3 feet and serves as a great accent among other plants in an informal setting. It can also be grown in a pot, allowing you to move it as sun conditions change.

Plant it in good drainage, offer it regular water and fertilizer and it will reward you with its colorful beauty for many months of the year.

Submitted by CJ Danna,Vice President, Sarasota Garden Club. http://sarasotagardenclub.org/

38 Siesta Sand

May 2015

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Accommodations Locator Map

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Run For The Turtles

May 2015

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By Trebor Britt

The joyful faces of youth sprinting away from the starting line at this years’ “Run for the Turtles” race. People of all ages support Mote’s Sea Turtle Conservation Program.

Mila Hoskinson (5) of Sarasota giving mascot “Shelly the Turtle” a hand slap crossing the finish line with her mom, Wendy in their first “Run for the Turtles” race on beautiful Siesta Beach.

Hundreds of runners squeezing together at the starting line of this years “Run for the Turtles” 5K race. Almost 1000 runners competed in a 1K and 5K run on the beautiful sands of Siesta Beach along the shores of the Gulf of Mexico.

Mila (5) and her sister Madelyn (3) of Sarasota proudly displaying the ribbons they earned in the 1K race. They are flanked by their parents Wendy and Brian Hoskinson. Wendy is a local business consultant and Bryan is a fitness consultant.

Callie Neslund and Elizabeth (2) of Lakeland, participating in their first “Run for the Turtles”. They were staying on Anna Maria Island for the weekend and are big fans of Mote Marine.

40 Siesta Sand

May 2015

Island Girl

941.349.0194 www.siestasand.net

By Trebor Britt

This months Island Girl is Aime, from Maracaibo, Venezuela now living in Sarasota.

Even though she’s busy with work and her business studies at State College of Florida, she still visits Siesta Beach as often as possible.

She stays fit by dancing, doing Zumba and playing sand volleyball on the No. 1 beach in the United States.

Aime is modeling Floridita Swimwear. www.floriditaswimwear.com

Aime

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)