Siesta Sand - May 2020

COME SEE WHAT WE HAVE BEEN UP TO

CHICANE PROJECT County moves forward

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MINI REEFS

Improve Water Quality

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Why the world comes to Sarasota

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MAY 2020 | 941.312.0665 | 27TH STATE MEDIA LLC | www.SiestaSand.net | COMPLIMENTARY

Siesta Key residents & visitors respond to Covid-19 survey

The Siesta Sand and the Siesta Key Association (SKA) partnered on a survey to gauge the impact the Covid-19 pandemic is having on Siest a Key resident s a nd visitors. The objective was to get an understanding on how the COVID-19 pandem ic and subsequent closures, restrictions, and social distancing measures are impacting their life and life on Siesta Key. We were also interested in learning about resident’s appetite for ordering takeout from local restaurants, shopping online, and

Covid-19 concerns

the impact on future travel plans.

Overall, we had 83 Siesta Key residents and visitors take the survey. Of the 83 respondents, 72 (86.75%) own property on Siesta Key and 49 (59.04%) are currently on Siesta Key. Of those not currently on Siesta Key, 14 (43.75%) said they were coming back to Siesta Key at a predetermined time regardless of the CDC’s recommendations on travel. Another 11 (34.38%) said they would return to Siesta Key when the CDC said it was safe to travel. The remaining 21.9% didn’t know when they would return.

The largest group of respondents (36.14%) said they are primarily concerned about their own personal health during the Covid-19 pandemic. Second, they were concerned about the health of loved ones at 27.71%. The third choice was the overall impact on the U.S. economy (12.05%) and fourth was the local economy at 10.84%. Individual financial impact, at 8.43%, ranked least on the list of concerns.

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Dredging of Big Pass expected to begin by early summer

By Rachel Brown Hackney

By Rachel Brown Hackney SarasotaNewsLeader.com

SarasotaNewsLeader.com

On April 16, the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers (USACE) issued the “Notice to Proceed” to the Virginia firm that won the bid to handle the Lido Key Hurricane and Storm Damage Reduction Project, the SNL learned.

That notice is the formal go-ahead for the initiative to begin.

USACE spokesman David Ruderman provided the information to the SNL in an April 17 email.

Sarasota City Engineer Alexandrea DavisShaw informed the City Commission and cit y administrative staff of that development on April 16.

During the April 20 City Commission meeting, City Manager Tom Barwin reported that city staff expects the work to begin in late spring or early summer.

The plans call for the removal of up to 1.3 million cubic yards of sand from Big Sarasota Pass to renourish about 1.56 miles of Lido Key Beach. The USACE bid documents for the initiative said 710,000 cubic yards of sand would be placed on the beach; the rest, based on information the USACE provided the Florida Department of Environmental Protection, would be lost in the dredging and transport process.

Ruderman told the SNL in his email that the first coordination call between the contractor — Cottrell Contracting Corp. of Chesapeake, Va. — and the Corps “was scheduled to take place” on April 17.

Cottrell’s bid for the project was $12,688,582, Ruderman told the SNL in March.

Ben Cot t rell, president of Cot t rell

Page 11 Turtles Restaurant welcomes back customers

• Village Map/business listings PAGE 20 • Crescent Beach Map/ business listings PAGE 22 • Gulf Gate Shops PAGE 27 • Island Humor PAGE 33 • Accommodations Map/ Listings PAGE 39

County-operated beaches and parking lots open

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During their regular meeting on April 22, the Sarasota County commissioners agreed with County Administrator Jonathan Lewis’ approach to easing restrictions at countyoperated beaches.

In fact, after the board voted unanimously to give him the go-ahead to implement his recommendations starting April 27, county staff stressed that the word “reopening” should not be used.

The commission decision came with emphasis on continued observance of the social distancing guidelines promulgated by the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC).

The parking lots would not be open at the outset, but the restrooms would.

Still, the parking lot issue sparked debate.

“I don’t really like the parking lot being closed, to be honest,” Commissioner Christian

Page 6 Visit Sarasota survey provides optimism for future vacation travel

Ziegler said of Siesta Public Beach. “It’s a little discriminating,” he added, because people who live within close proximity to the beaches would be able to take advantage of the easing of the restrictions. People who live 5 or 6 miles away would need to drive to the shoreline, Ziegler continued. “Siesta Key may be, in particular, where they’re going to come anyway and park wherever they feel like parking.”

Chair Michael Moran added that he feared a lot of people would park on private property. “Maybe a very specific date [would be appropriate, for the parking lots to reopen], so staff can prepare,” he said, suggesting May 4 or May 11.

Commissioner Charles Hines countered, “I have two kids home from college … If Siesta Key Beach was fully open … that’s where they’d go,” regardless, Hines continued, of the discussions Continued on page 35

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Solorzano Pizzeria closes Siesta Key store

Sea Turtles Arrive on Siesta Key

Happiness is…New Horizons While the end of this school year may not look or feel like past ones, the commitment of Jerry Williams, owner of Abel’s Ice Cream to honor his outgoing seniors hasn’t wavered.

“Every year members of our staff are some of the best and brightest in the graduating class, and 2020 is no different,” said Williams. “One of the most frequent comments we receive on reviews is about the friendliness and fun our employees exemplify. What a credit to these young people. We are thankful to be represented so well.”

Everyone has their favorite Abel’s Ice Cream flavor, including the employees, so we had to ask!

Lilah, who plans to major in Nuclear Engineering, is a fan of Cookies ‘N Cream

(Scrumptious Cookie flavored ice cream with crushed chocolate cookies in every bite! It’s a staple for a reason!)

Chloe, a future business management student, said her go to is Elephant Ears (Vanilla ice cream swirled with peanut butter & large chocolate chips.)

Dana, who’s going to study criminology said, “I know it’s basic, but our Cookie Dough (Sweet Cookie flavored ice cream loaded with chunks of cookie dough and sweet chocolate chips) is the best I’ve ever had.”

The students have fond memories of their experience at Abel’s, including funny interactions with customers and even their boss.

“Jerry is always trying to make paper towels into the trash can but misses 9/10 times,” Dana laughed.

Lilah

Chloe

Although times may feel a bit uncertain, Williams is confident in the future. “These students are looking forward to new experiences and meeting challenges headon. I couldn’t be more proud of them.”

We want to join Jerry and the entire Abel’s staff in wishing the best of luck to the Class of 2020. Come by to enjoy our team’s favorite flavors, featured throughout the month. Abel’s Ice Cream is located at 1886 Stickney Point Road, Sarasota in the

Dana

South Bridge Plaza. Open Sunday through Thursday from Noon-9:30 pm, and Friday and Saturday from Noon-10 pm. Learn more online at our updated website, www. abelsicecream.com or connect with us on Facebook and Instagram.

Awarded their Certificate of Excellence for SIX years straight!

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MAY 2020

I was recently at Walgreens on 301 in Sarasota. As I walked into the store, I noticed a woman & a man standing by an empty shelf. The lady had just taken the last bottle of hand sanitizer while an older gentleman stood by and watched.

I couldn’t help but watch as she turned to him, arm stretched out, and offered him that last bottle! I listened as he gently said, “no thank you, that’s okay,” as she continued to try to give it to him! She didn’t know I was there standing there in awe, nor did he, they were in their own little world one-on-one.

She didn’t know I had just come from Target where I witnessed a lady grabbing two cases of Lysol wipes! She didn’t know I was struggling with that, not knowing whether this other woman was

Linda Gross offers her professional services to the community

Obviously, these continue to be challenging times for everyone on so many levels.

It is in times like this, little acts of kindness can make a sig n i f ica nt i mpac t a nd difference in someone’s day and life.

C e r t a i n l y, t h e r e h a v e been ma ny gest u res of support, compassion, and kindness during the Covid-19 pandemic. On this page are two examples that exemplify this type of kindness and community support. We want to take this opportunity to share them with you.

Brion Palmer Todd Zerega

I Hope You See This!

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Advertising Expert Offers Free Assistance to Businesses

From the Publisher If you would like to share acts of kindness, support, and compassion you have experienced or witnessed during these challenging times, please send to us at info@27statemedia.com.

We all will continue to need inspiration as we collectively battle this health crisis. These stories help remind everyone we are all in this together and we can count on each other to persevere.

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With so many area businesses exper ienci ng u npre cedented uncertainty and being required to operate in a new arena during the COVID-19 pandemic, local marketing expert Linda Gross has decided to offer her assistance in the form of a complimentary one-hour consultation to the first 10 businesses who respond to this announcement. As the owner of Sarasota-based advertising agency Advice Solutions, Linda has many years of experience in marketing a nd publ ic relat ion s, med ia planning and buying including strategy, and she understands the economic stress that is rocking local businesses in all departments.

“I’m a small business owner too, so I know what our community and business leaders are going through,” said Linda. “Offering my help seems the least I can

do to help others struggling to organize a new or changed ‘game plan.’ Everything may be different right now, but businesses still need to communicate with their customers and promote their brand and strategies must be changed (from websites to campaigns to internal communication). The socia l env i ron ment t h at f it s the now marketplace must be incorporated. Our team can help them with updating the buyer message, evaluate budgets, and together come up with a plan that works for each unique situation.”

Linda has been a leader in the Sarasota advertising industry for over 20 years. Her client roster has included most of the region’s top bui lders a nd developers including Taylor Morrison, Neal Com mun it ies and Lakewood Ranch Communities. She has

also consulted for legal firms, retail shops, restaurants, country clubs, non-profit g roups and many more in every category with a local, regional and national agreement. Over the years, Linda has been a supporter of causes to benefit local arts and educational charities personally and through advising clients. She is a past board member of Designing Women Bout ique (DWB), ser ves as a key advisor for DWB and holds memberships positions in many local organizations.

To take advantage of Linda’s offer for a one-hour marketing and business operation consultation at no charge, be among the first 10 businesses to call 941-720-0462 or email at linda@advice-inc.com. For more information about Linda and Advice Solutions, visit advice-inc. com.

To the lady who took the last bottle of hand sanitizer...

hoarding or was she possibly sharing with others.

She didn’t know that I really needed to see this example of love this day. I had been running errands and experiencing all the aisles at Publix being wiped out like just about every store in town!

I thought about how generous this woman was and how she probably knew that was really the last one! I thought about the struggle she must have experienced thinking about her own family. I thought about that man and how he knew he was older and in that age range and was likely to have worse symptoms than most and how he must have really wanted that last bottle for him or his wife.

I don’t know who won that battle of kindness because I was in a hurry

as usual trying to get things done.

I had a to do list! I know it was just a little gesture, but it made my day!

Thinking about both of them made me realize there are really kind people in Sarasota!

I just wanted to say “Thank you” to both of you! I really appreciated seeing humanity at its best! It gave me hope and I wanted you to know what a privilege and honor it was to see that exchange firsthand. Next time, I will slow done a bit to take the time to say, “thank you,” in person! My errands didn’t mean as much as that moment in time.

At Mothers Helping Mothers (w w w.m h msarasota.com) we experience that hope every day as volunteers! I can’t tell you all the acts of kindness we see! We are so blessed! It’s like we are part of

a whole different world. A world filled with love, peace and hope for a better future! I want you to know I am grateful to everyone involved with helping others!

Whether it’s giving your time or donations! We appreciate you and so do the people who receive it! It may be something small but it’s huge to someone else!

Please always remember that someone may be watching you, it may be a stranger (like me who happened to need to see that act of kindness that day) or you may do something that encourages your own little ones, your own family or friends, co-workers, but whatever you do it matters to someone!!! Let’s all be good examples, especially during this time!

Check on your neighbors, family,

friends, especially the seniors that you know. A bag of groceries at their front door could mean the world to them! Some seniors aren’t up to par on the internet and having items delivered. You could be their lifeline!

Make an old fashioned phone call and check on them. They may be lonely or worried right now and just need to chat. Let’s show everyone what it really means to love! After all, from what I’ve seen, we really care about community!

Let’s live up to our reputation as the friendliest beach town around!

Let’s make a positive impact in our town and beyond! Thank you, from the bottom of my heart!

Love, Jaye MHM Outreach Volunteer

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CARES Act Offers As we go t h rough t he coronavirus crisis, we are all, first and foremost, concerned about the health of our loved ones and communities. But the economic implications of the virus have also weighed heavily on our minds.

However, if you’re an investor or a business owner, you just got some help from Washington – and it could make a big difference, at least in the short term, for your financial future.

Specifically, the passage of the $2 trillion Coronavirus Aid, Relief and Economic Security (CARES) Act offers, among other provisions, the following: • E x pa nde d u ne mplo y me n t benefits – The CARES Act p r ov ide s $2 5 0 b i l l io n fo r extended u nemploy ment insurance, expands eligibility and provides workers with an additional $600 per week for four months, in addition to what state programs pay. The package will also cover the self-employed, independent contractors and “gig economy” workers. Obviously, if your employment has been affected,

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Help for Investors, Small Businesses

these benefits can be a lifeline.

Furthermore, the benefits could help you avoid liquidating some long-term investments you’ve earmarked for retirement just to meet your daily cash flow needs.

• Direct payments – Individuals will receive a one-time payment of up to $1,200; this amount is reduced for incomes over $75,0 0 0 a nd e l i m i n at e d altogether at $99,000. Joint filers will receive up to $2,400, which will be reduced for incomes over $150,000 and eliminated at $198,000 for joint filers with no children. Plus, taxpayers with children will receive an extra $500 for each dependent child under the age of 17. If you don’t need this money for an immediate need, you might consider putting it into a lowrisk, liquid account as part of an emergency fund.

• N o p e n a l t y o n e a r l y withdrawals – Typically, you’d have to pay a 10% penalty on early withdrawals from IRAs, 401(k)s and similar retirement accounts. Under the CARES Act, this penalty will be waived

for individuals who qualify for COVID-19 relief and/or in plans that allow COVID-19 distributions. Withdrawals will still be taxable, but the taxes can be spread out over three years. Still, you might want to avoid taking early withdrawals, as you’ll want to keep your retirement accounts intact as long as possible.

• S u s p e n s i o n o f r e q u i r e d w i t hd r a w a l s – O n c e yo u turn 72, you’ll be required to take withdrawals from your traditional IRA and 401(k).

T he CARES Act wa ives t h e s e r e q u i r e d m i n i mu m distributions for 2020. If you’re in this age group, but you don’t need the money, you can let your retirement accounts continue growing on a tax-deferred basis.

• Increase of retirement plan loa n l i m it – Ret i rement plan investors who qualify for COVID-19 relief can now borrow up to $100,000 from their accounts, up from $50,000, provided their plan allows loans. We recommend that you explore other options, such as

the direct payments, to bridge the gap on current expenses and if you choose to take a plan loan work with your financial adviser to develop strategies to pay back these funds over time to reduce any long-term impact to your retirement goals.

• Small-business loans – The CARES Ac t prov ides $349 billion to help small businesses – those with fewer than 500 employees – retain workers and avoid closing up shop. A significant part of this small business relief is the Paycheck P r o t e c t ion P r og ra m . T h i s initiative provides federally g ua ra nteed loa n s to sma ll b u s i n e s s e s who m a i nt a i n payroll during this emergency.

Significantly, these loans may be forgiven if borrowers use the loans for payroll and other essential business expenses (such as mortgage interest, rent and utilities) and maintain their payroll during the crisis.

We’l l b e i n a c h a l le ng i ng economic environment for some time, but the CARES Act should

g ive us a posit ive jolt – a nd brighten our outlook.

This article was written by Edward Jones for use by your local Edward Jones Financial Advisor.

Edward Jones. Member SIPC.

Joe St.Onge, ChFC® Financial Advisor Edward Jones Investments 5112 Ocean Blvd., Siesta Key, FL 34242

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

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MAY 2020

Island Chatter

No smoking bill ‘indefinitely postponed’ in Florida House

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MULTIPLE NEW TV’s

Written by Siesta Sand Staff Siesta Key Breeze ridership stats

Call it a “last hurrah,” for the time being: In February, the Siesta Key Breeze had 49,849 passengers, a 30.03% increase from the 38,336 it carried in February 2019, Sarasota County staff told the SNL. County Administrator Jonathan Lewis halted the trolley’s operations as a means of reducing the potential for people to head to Siesta Key’s beaches, after the county ordered those closed as of 6 a.m. on March 21. From March 1 through March 20, the number of passengers was 31,519, Media Relations Officer Drew Winchester reported.

A ltoget her, i n Ja nua r y a nd February, the Breeze had 89,129 passengers. Add in that number for part of March, and the total was 120,648.

Readers will recall that the trolley had more than 350,320 riders in 2019.

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STOP BY FOR MUSIC ON THE PATIO AND RELAX

As Flor ida leg islators were wrapping up the work of the 2020 session, a Senate bill that would have allowed municipalities and counties to regulate smoking on beaches and in parks met its end in the House.

A March 14 notation in the history of Senate Bill 630 said the bill had been “Indefinitely postponed and withdrawn from consideration” in the Florida House.

Nine days earlier, the bill had passed the Florida Senate on a vote of 39-1.

State’s bid for more vacation rental powers ‘Died in Rules’ Regular readers also will recall that new efforts were launched in the Florida Legislature’s session this year to give the state more power to supervise short-term vacation rentals. That initiative failed, as well, the SNL learned.

As the session was drawing to a formal close on March 13 — except for finalization of the budget — a notation in the history of Senate Bill 1128 said it had “Died in Rules” on March 14, referring to the Senate’s Committee on Rules.

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Visit Sarasota study reveals cautious optimism for summer/fall vacation travel

By Jane Bartnett, Siesta Sand Summer vacation days are almost here. After Covid-19 turned Siesta Key’s tourist industry upside down (after a very successful winter season), what does the short-term future hold for area businesses and tourism on The Key? What are potential visitors to Siesta Key and Sarasota County considering?

To get some answers to these pressing question, Visit Sarasota County, the county’s official tourism marketing entity, commissioned the Tallahassee, FL, based research firm, Downs & St. Germain Research, to conduct a professional Consumer Sentiment Study. Designed to gauge the short-term impact of Covid-19 on vacationers and travelers who may be planning trips to the Sarasota County and Siesta Key areas, the researchers conducted the first of four surveys during the week of April 21, 2020.

The first study, in a series of four, was purposely completed prior to Governor DeSantis announcement of Florida’s re-opening. Virginia Haley, the president of Visit Sarasota called the Consumer Sentiment Study, “a baseline view of how vacationers and travelers are feeling about their 2020 travel plans.”

The study results show that hope is on the horizon. Many tourists from near and far are looking ahead to mid to late summer/fall vacations, and to enjoying the peaceful beauty of Siesta Key beaches and Sarasota County.

The study, that was specific to Sarasota and Lee Counties, surveyed adult “vacation decision makers” with income over $75,000 a year.

A total of 350 residents of Atlanta, Chicago, the Tampa Bay area, the Miami-Ft. Lauderdale region, West

Palm Beach, Orlando, and the New York City area, were surveyed. There was an equal division of men and women as well as those with and without children. All had vacationed at paid accommodations in 2019 and all were deemed “key-decision makers.”

S a f e t y, t h e r e s p o n d e n t s overwhelmingly reported, was their primary concern. “Anything that local businesses can do to enhance the safety of their guests will benefit their businesses,” Haley stated.

Key short-term and general takeaways from the Visit Sarasota Consumer Sentiment Study survey showed that: • When making travel plans, travelers put their trust in The Center for Disease Control (CDC) • As of late April 2020, the majority of vacationers did not feel safe in making short-term travel plans • When large attractions, restaurants and retail operations open, consumers believe that it will be safe to travel Future travel and vacation plans show more encouraging news: • Beaches and other uncrowded areas that visitors can drive to are their most popular destination picks • Travelers want to go to Siesta Key and other Southwest Florida beaches when travel is “deemed safe again” • A majority plan to take a vacation or “get-away” within a month of Covid-19’s passing • Traveling in July/Mid-summer will be safe, said the majority • A majority( 50% surveyed) are

planning a late summer, or early fall trip • Vacationers are most comfortable about going to the beach. as opposed to cruising, attending a major sport event or a large concert.

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Letter to the Editor Dear Editor Living Parallel to Stickney Point Road, my concern about “Siesta Promenade” is very simple.

There is no ability to expand Stickney Point Road in any way , shape or form.

There are only two Bridges that connect Siesta Key to the mainland.

T he S out h Br idge wh ich connects Stickney Point Road is the most traveled.

The “Siesta Promenade” was rushed through the voting process by the BOCC, it didn’t matter how many citizens showed up to speak with logic and fact against this proposed project it was already a done deal to be “Green Lighted”.

The Problem is simple there is an over abundance of Empty Office Space in Sarasota.

Retail wise over 5,000 stores in the USA are closing this year.

The Benderson “South Gate” project, has already had 3 major, huge restaurants close within a year and also a major Super Market.

Vacationers want to know what Siesta Key businesses and Sarasota County groups are doing to create safe environments. “Prioritizing safety is the number one message consumers say will motivate them to travel again,” reported the research firm’s principal, Joseph St. Germain.

Travelers also “want to hear from destinations during the Covid-19 crisis about what they’re doing to help others,” he said.

As vacationers cautiously make get-away plans, they are more likely to view travel videos on social media sites and on magazine and newspaper websites than they are to read travel magazines. A full 61% of those responding said that destination websites are their top choice for trip planning. The findings for this study are consistent with finding for other markets around the country, the study’s author, St. Germain noted.

As Sie st a Key bu si ne sse s and Florida as a whole begins the gradual process of getting back to business, Visit Sarasota’s president Haley said that there is “pent-up demand.” Echoing her sentiment, St. Germain sounded his own cautiously optimistic voice for the future noting: “Once the The 2nd District Court of Appeals leisure traveler begins going out to has set a provisional date for restaurants, they’re starting to dip the oral arguments in the Siesta their toes back into travel.”

There is absolutely no logic, no practical financial gain to build 133,000 sq ft of retail space for whom to rent? What Chain? What Independent Stores?

It is totally a disaster in the making to build 7,000 square feet of office space.

As for the Hotel being 80 feet high, WHY? T h e 4 14 C o n d o m i n i u m / Apartments should have been reduced by half.

Stickney Point Road and US 41 which is one of the worse dangerous intersections in the entire County cannot handle the current traffic let alone the projected 8.000 added Vehicle Trips.

Benderson needs to step back, take a deep breathe & re evaluate this entire proposed development before continuing to rush to build as if they know they are wrong.

Rich Unger 1742 Dawn St. Sarasota, Fla. 34231 941-552-9866

Siesta Promenade Appeal Update Promenade appeal. It is scheduled for Tuesday, June 23, 2020 at 11 a.m. at the 2nd District Court of Appeals, Tampa Branch Headquarters, in the courtroom of the Stetson University College of Law, Tampa Campus, First Floor, 1700 North Tampa Street, Tampa, FL. The panel of judges consists of: Judge Robert J. Morris, Jr.; Judge Daniel H. Sleet; and Judge Matthew C. Lucas.

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Shop Local and Support Your Community

By Nicole Kenedy From store closures to stay-at-home orders, the worldwide spread of the novel coronavirus has left consumers struggling to get the products they need from their usual sources. While social distancing requirements that help limit the spread of pathogens appear to be having a positive effect on public health, these precautions are taking a toll on brick-and-mortar businesses.

O p e r at i n g u n d e r t h e b e l i e f t h at t hey won’t be able to get what t hey need from their favorite local retailers, many consumers have turned to online shopping. And though this may solve one problem, it could quickly create others: the widespread failure of independent retail and the potential cascading effect on local economies.

This online shopping trend is affecting a number of industries—including pet stores—as consumers search for solutions during this crisis. But with many pet retailers still open and offering safe, convenient alternatives, it doesn’t have to be that way.

Here’s how a number of local pet stores are adapting, and how you can get what you need for your furry family members while supporting your community at the same time.

Local Solutions. Local Support.

Discovering local options for pet food, supplies, and more begins with a little simple research. A quick phone call or a visit to your neighborhood pet retailer’s website can help you find out what’s in inventory, and the kind of access available.

You may have heard that restaurants are offering delivery or curbside pickup to help encourage distancing and limit viral community spread. (If you’re like us, you’ve probably had some great takeout lately, too.) Well, many pet stores are using the same tactics, offering phone and online ordering, contactless curbside service, and local delivery to nearby zip codes to make customer transactions as seamless as possible.

Even with these tactics in place, many local establishments have had to cut staff and reduce hours, and they may be low on inventory due to supply chain challenges – so, please be patient. In the event you need to visit the actual physical location, be sure to minimize close contact with people and surfaces. To assist with this, many pet stores are encouraging cashless transactions and reducing the need for keypad use on credit or debit purchases.

Paw Pals Meet Sweet E. Pie

Even dogs are practicing social distancing.

Technology to the Rescue In addition to having an effect on how we purchase products, the coronavirus crisis is also influencing the way we experience services. Professionals in all sorts of industries are turning to online communication platforms like Zoom to conduct daily business, or offer services like music lessons, yoga classes, or even dog training. If you’re pup’s training got cut short by a stay-at-home order, check with your local store to see if you can get started with courses online.

And if your favorite pet retailer is doing their best to help out your family during this time, make sure you show them some love by promoting them on social media. Mentioning their pages and telling people about your experiences on local forums can help introduce new customers. Even just a quick comment or like can let your local pet store owner know they’ve got your support.

you know as a number of independent pet retailers are asking customers to round up their change to help a local organization or by providing donations to local shelters.

Without action, the effects of the coronavirus could be devastating to local businesses.

As we all try to stay healthy, let’s work together to support our favorite pet stores and neighborhood retailers to keep our local economy healthy, too.

In addition to her walks, Sweet E.’s favorite activities include chasing her blue ball, bike rides with Grammy & Pa, going for a car ride with Pa to get coffee each morning, bugging Grammy for treats, and chilling out on her favorite pillow.

Paying It Forward Finally, if you’re all stocked up now, why not use this opportunity to pay it forward.

Purchasing gift cards for yourself, extended family, or friends is a great way to help your local pet store in the short and long run. It can provide them with an infusion of cash now, while broadening their future customer base and helping them recover lost revenue.

And while many local pet stores need assistance themselves, they’re still offering their own helping hand to the community.

Your purchase may be worth more than

Sweet E. Pie is a 3-year old Shipoo (Shih tzu & poodle mix). She is quite a celebrity in Siesta Key Village where she serves as an “unofficial” village greeter during her walks each day. She is very friendly, unless someone shows up at the door unexpectedly. That’s when her protective instincts take hold!

If you see Sweet E. Pie in the village, be sure to say hi. She loves the attention!

Au t h o r : N i c ol e K e n e d y, a Stor e Ma n ager at DOGPerfect. Nicole has over 10 years of experience in the pet industry and is an expert when it comes to helping pet parents choose the right food for their dog. DOGPerfect is a local, independently owned pet retail store with locations in Sarasota, Lakewood Ranch, and University Park. Learn more at www.dogperfect.com.

Paw Pals is a new monthly department that will feature a special dog. If you are interested in featuring your “Paw Pal” in a future issue, please send picture and short description of your special “pal” to info@27statemedia.com.

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County issues Affidavits of Violation to remove fencing on private beach property

By Rachel Brown Hackney

SarasotaNewsLeader.com

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Sarasota County staff formally has issued Affidavits of Violation to two limited liability companies whose principals have erected fencing on private property on Siesta Beach, the SNL has learned.

B o t h a f f id av it s p oi n t o ut that on March 24, county staff documented that chain link fences had been installed in violation of Chapter 124, Article 7, Section 124102, of the Sarasota County Code, which encompasses the Siesta Key Overlay District (SKOD) zoning regulations.

S e c t ion 124 -102(4)(c) s ays, “All uses and structures must comply with all other application regulations including, but not limited to, the Coastal Setback Code Chapter 54, Article XXII of the County Code.”

The affidavits note, “Section 124-102(4)o.1.iv states, “Chain link fencing is prohibited in the required minimum street yard.”

Additionally, Section 54-723 of the Coastal Setback Code, which pertains to the county’s Gulf Beach Setback Line (GBSL) and the Barrier Island Pass Twenty-Year Hazard Line (PHL) requirements, proh ibits con st ruct ion or excavation seaward of the GBSL and waterward of the PHL, except under specific circumstances.

Each affidavit includes language from that part of the code, which explains, “Construction means the placing, building, erection, extension, or material alteration of a ny st r uc t u re t he u s e of

which requires a permanent or temporary location on the ground or attachment to a structure having a permanent or temporary location on the ground. ‘Construction’ shall include, but is not limited to, the installation of parking lots, driveways, tennis courts, swimming pools, patios, or any similar hard surfaced structures.”

The affidavits proceed to point out that the Siesta Beach Lots LLC chain link fence “had been installed at or near the southern boundary” of that company’s properties. The fence was under construction perpendicular to the shore “and appears to be near the unimproved Columbus [Boulevard] Right-ofWay and an unimproved shoreparallel Right-of-Way seaward of Beach Road. The seaward end of the fence,” that affidavit says, “was in close proximity to the waterline along the shore of the Gulf of Mexico. No authorizations were found in county records for this construction and a Stop Work Order was posted.”

The affidavit adds that, on March 25, a Notice of Violation was prepared, giving Siesta Beach Lots an April 3 deadline for removal of the fencing. However, on April 6, the affidavit says, county staff observed that the fencing remained on the beach.

In regard to the Siesta Gulf View LLC fencing: That affidavit notes that it was constructed near the northern boundary of that company’s property. As with

the Siesta Beach Lots fence, the affidavit continues, a Notice of Violation was prepared on March 25, with an April 3 deadline for compliance. Likewise, on April 6, county staff found the fence remained in place.

Each a f f idav it says t h at i f the Code Enforcement Special Magistrate “finds that one or more violations of the Sarasota County Code exist … staff recommends the following corrective action: Remove the entire chain link fence immediately. All fence posts and materials shall be removed from the beach to a location landward of the Gulf Beach Setback Line.”

The GBSL is the figurative “line in the sand” designed to protect du nes a nd b each veget at ion which, in turn, protect properties landward of the GBSL in times of storm surge and other types of flooding. For any construction to take place legally seaward of the GBSL, a property owner has to obtain a Coastal Setback Variance from the county.

Both affidavits were signed

by Howa rd J. B e r n a, t he environmental supervisor and Code En forcement official of t he cou nt y ’s Env i ron me nt a l Protection Division.

Michael Holderness, who both owns and manages property on Siesta Key, is the principal of Siesta Beach Lots. Andy Cooper of Siesta Key is the manager of Siesta Gulf View.

Continued on page 38

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Mini Reefs improve water quality

By Siesta Sand Staff Writer

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Caption: Mini reef being installed on Longboat Key at the Mar Vista restaurant last year.

The proposed use of mini reefs to help quickly and easily improve water quality in the Siesta canals was the message delivered by Phil Chiocchio, of the Sarasota Bay Fisheries Forum, delivered at the December 5th SKA monthly meeting.

The canals were built to sell houses, not to provide an ecofriendly habitat for sea life, water in Siesta canals is unhealthy. The water needs aeration, more flow, and filtration. Adding aeration and flow are larger projects. However, filtration can be accomplished quickly by individuals installing mini reefs under an existing boat dock.

Sandy Gilbert, of Solutions to Avoid Red Tide (START), explained that these mini-reefs filter 30,000 gallons of water per day and soon become a haven for crabs, oysters, and fish. They are affordable (approximately $300), long-lasting, and low maintenance. Besides improving water quality in the canals, filtration helps in the fight to avoid red tide. Currently, the City of Sarasota allows these installations.

Sarasota County and the Florida Department of Environmental Protection has confirmed that there’s no permit required, no permitting fee and no ordinance against the

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use of the mini-reefs, according to Catherine Luckner, president of the Siesta Key Association.

T he r e a r e now 4,0 0 0 m i n i reefs installed under docks all over Florida from The Keys to Jacksonville. START is helping the manufacturer, Ocean Habitats, Inc, to introduce them here on the Sun Coast. Mini reefs measure 24” x 24” x 36” deep and are made with a durable polypropylene frame with four holding shelves that support marine life that filter excess nutrients in up to 30,000 gallons of seawater every day.

Each mini reef can support hundreds of fish, crabs and shrimp each year and will start to develop a complete ecosystem starting as soon as it enters the water. Dozens of different fish have been found utilizing these underwater reefs.

In addition to providing habitat for water-filtering sea life and fish, mini reefs improve water clarity around the dock for a radius of 12-15 feet.

The units are installed underdocks, floats below surface, and are virtually maintenance free. The holding lines need to be checked every so often and after storms to be sure the lines aren’t tangled.

The units are built to survive heavy weather and last decades. If you

need assistance in handling your mini reefs, you can contact Ocean Habitats for maintenance service.

“The Bay Island area of Siesta Key has a great opportunity to become a wonderful demonstration project for the region and all the neighboring islands,” said Chiocchio.

START offers special discount to non-profits START is launching a special sales promotion on under dock mini reefs for waterside residents on the Sun Coast. The units fit under your dock and provide habitat for sea life that filter excess nutrients from the water and attract a wide variety of fish.

The regular retail price for mini reefs is $297 per unit, plus $21 tax and $125 for installation. With the START 10 Special Non-Profit Discount, the cost is only $297 with no tax and free professional installation. That’s a saving of $146 or 33% per unit. Also, half or $148.50 of the $297 START 10 Special NonProfit Discount price is also tax deductible as a donation to Ocean Habitats, Inc. To order a mini reef with the START Special Non-Profit Discount contact colleen@start1.org or call (941) 951-3400.

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Pandemic Profiteering

By Mike Cosentino Courtesy of Mike Holderness and Andy Cooper, unlawful fences and signs sprang up last month between Siesta’s Beach Accesses #2 and #3. Don’t be misled, ladies and gentlemen, the fences have

used the comparable sales approach to determine the purchase price of Mr. Allen’s property. For example, in 2012, Mr. Cooper’s mother bought 4 lots seaward of Beach Road just south of Access # 2 for

At deposition, our Director of Environmental Permitting and ou r Tra n spor tat ion Di rector confirmed this is a road segment on a waterfront on a Gulf-access point.

The judge, without regard for the a forement ioned law, simply said it ’s none of my b u s i n e s s . T h at l awsu it i s now headed to the appellate court.

Public Access/ Property Rights

Unlawful Fences Pose Trip Hazards on State Owned Public Land

absolutely NOTHING to do with the current Coronavirus Pandemic.

They are nothing but a thinly veiled attempt to gain a multimillion dollar return on minimal investments.

The Model Aston ish i ngly, t he Cou nt y recently paid Ron Allen about $1.8 million for two beach lots adjacent to Beach Access #4, despite their being properly valued by our Property Appraiser at just $1000.

The low value is because the lots have no development rights since they are seaward of Beach Road, the Gulf Beach Setback Line, and the Coastal Construction Control Line.

While I applaud the purchase, as a fiscal conservative I cringe at the price, which was an average of Mr. Allen’s and County’s appraised values AS IF THE LOTS WERE BUILDABLE. They were not. Mr. Allen’s prior requests for variances to build had been denied; his threat of associated litigation was contributory to our substantial overpayment for the lots.

I believe the County should have

$26,000. In 2016, Mr. Holderness bought 2 lots seaward of Beach Road and abutting Access # 3 for $1000. Also in 2016, I bought 2 lots, which included the pier adjacent to Access # 2, for $50,000. In short, the County could have paid Mr. Allen 100 times his assessed value and saved $1.7 million of OUR money!!

Beach Road To the delight of many, and perhaps to the chagrin of the “fence guys”, the Mira Mar Beach Subdivision boasts 4 Count y Public Parks, making it- by farSarasota’s most publicly accessible beachfront neighborhood. This section of Beach Road, as listed in the Library of Congress, is Sarasota’s only Historical American Landscape, and is one of just 26 found in our entire state. It’s our only unobstructed Gulf-view drive of America’s #1 beach, and was protected by our Comprehensive Plan, which stated, “The County shall not vacate road segments on waterfronts along any Gulf-access point.” The County vacated Beach Road in direct conflict with this law.

Happy Easter, America!

Law s c hool s t e ac h p r op e r t y rights like they’re a “bundle of sticks”.

Each of the rights is a stick in the bundle, such as the right to buy, s el l, a nd g ra nt easements; mineral rights, air rights, etc. A very important property right is the right to exclude: “Get off my property!!”

Within Resolution 2016-79, which unlawfully vacated OUR road, the owners of the private beach lots seaward of the vacated segment of Beach Road g ave up t hei r right to exclude a nyo n e, e ve r, from using “t hei r” b each.

Siesta’s District 4 Commissioner, Al Maio, stated at the May 11, 2016, public hearing on Resolution 201679, “I’m not going to get a hundred emails that signs are posted for special events by these property ow ners, that they’re going to restrain people in some methodology, some manner, from using the beach, that none of that will occur. Even though they still own the seaward lots, the whole world can go on them and use the beach without a murmur from these three property owners?”

The owner’s counsel, Charlie Bailey of the Williams Parker law firm, replied, “That’s correct.

Yes, si r.” Shortly t herea fter, Commissioner Maio said, “And just to re-emphasize for Commissioner Robinson and Commissioner Caragiulo, if this were to pass, the landward side of the right-of-way right clear to the water, wherever that may be in the future, is what’s going to be open to the public. It’s not going to be a narrow strip. It’s the landward edge of the current right of way all the way to the water, wherever that may be.”

That exchange was memorialized in the 4th ‘Whereas’ clause of Resolution 2016-79, which provides: “Whereas, during the public hearing on the vacation request, the Petitioners made representations that are relied upon by this Board and the public regarding the ability of the general public to continue its existing lawful use of the privatelyowned property seaward of the portion of Beach Road sought to be vacated.” That, folks, is the law.

As plainly set forth in Resolution 2016-79, the owners of the private

b e ac h pr op e r t y s e awa rd of the vacated segment of Beach Road, specifically including Mr. Holderness, the Maddens, and the Catfish, have no right to exclude anyone, ever. Period.

The Fences To the East, the fences unlawfully encroach upon the Beach Road right-of-way. To the West, the fences unlawfully encroach upon state sovereign lands. In between, they represent unpermitted work in a coastal high hazard area. Had a permit been applied for, which it had not, it would require a variance that could only be granted after a public hearing.

Unfortunately, this is a code enforcement issue. The citation(s) give the “fence guys” 30 days to correct the violation. Next, the County will verify that the fences were not removed within the stated time frame and issue an “Affidavit of Violation” and set a court date before a magistrate- yet another 30 days out. Due to Coronavirus, local non-essential court matters have been given another 30 days.

Assuming the law prevails, a m ag i st rate’s ve rd ic t c a n b e appealed to the local circuit courtwithin another 30 days. That’s just

were not.

On April 1st, the Governor issued a second Executive Order. I posted a new sign reflecting the changes, added a solar light atop the flagpole in keeping with flag etiquette, and temporarily suspended the nightly ceremony in deference to the situation.

Turtle Nesting Season This month turtle nesting season begins. Thus, the flagpole light will have to come down. I’m working with our Sheriff and County to assure our continued compliance.

Our plan is to post an abbreviated flag ceremony on Facebook Live so folks can stay home, stay safe, and still enjoy our tribute. For those who frequent the area, please do your part regarding social distancing, and please help us err on the side of caution given these uncertain times.

Pandemic Profiteering O n Ja n u a r y 2 8 t h o f t h i s year, Mr. Holderness applied for a Coastal Setback Variance (Application # 20-105674 RG) to build a house, swimming pool, etc. ON THE LAND EXPRESSLY RESERVED FOR PUBLIC USE

BY RESOLUTION 2016-79. He

RBR’s Signs Requesting Public Compliance

for filing- the suit doesn’t have to be served for another 120 days. Bottom line- legal maneuvering can keep the fences up beyond Christmas!!

The Flag Ceremony at the Pier The “fence guys” claim the fences were installed to protect themselves and their guests from Coronavirus being spread by the “crowds” gathered (for 11 minutes!!) at the pier for our nightly tribute to honor the sacrifices of our military and service personnel in protecting our Country and our Freedoms.

Regarding that and their litany of false accusations against me and Reopen Beach Road, Inc., a friend shared an Old Testament proverb that sums it up very well: “Answer not a fool in his folly, lest you be a fool also.” (Proverbs 26:4) Since this is a serious matter and a critical time, please be aware that I posted the Governor’s March 17th Executive Order on the pier the day it was issued, and made nightly announcements requesting compliance therewith. I’ve spoken with Sheriff’s Deputies before, during, and after each ceremony since March 17th. Not so much as a warning has been issued- much less a citation- associated with our tribute. On March 24th, I spoke before the County Commission and asked if there were any questions, concerns, or comments. There

proposes to demolish the protected dunes, native grasses, and sea turtle nesting habitat that currently exist where he has requested to build.

Obviously, this is ridiculous. Or is it merely following the Ron Allen model from Access # 4? As Paul Harvey used to say, “Now you know the rest of the story.”

Conclusion F o l k s , t h i s i s n ’t a b o u t Coronavirus, fences, sea turtles, property rights, or any of the other red-herrings set forth to detract from the truth. This is about Mr. Holderness using a pandemic to make such a commotion that the County pays him to go away. While we all support paying him to go away, let’s do so at a reasonable rate- $100,000 gives him 100 times what he invested in 2016. What reasonable person could argue with that rate of return?

S h o u ld a nyo n e h ave a ny questions, please feel free to contact me at (941) 346-2584. Leave a message; I will return your call.

Special thanks to the publisher for giving me the opportunity to share my opinions with the public. Be safe, everyone!

Sincerely, Mike Cosentino, President, Reopen Beach Road, Inc. This space is paid for by Siesta Key resident, Mike Cosentino.

14

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MAY 2020

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County moves forward with Avenida Messina & Avenida Veneccia chicane project

By Rachel Brown Hackney SarasotaNewsLeader.com

A Sarasota County Public Works Department crew was at work on Siesta Key in early April, creating a traffic structure called a “chicane” at the intersection of Avenida Messina and Avenida Veneccia.

“A chicane is a series of alternating curves or lane shifts that are located in a position to force a motorist to steer back and forth out of a straight travel path,” the Federal Highway Administration (FHA) explains.

“The curvilinear path is intended to reduce the speed at which a motorist is comfortable traveling through the feature. The lower speed could in turn result in a traffic volume reduction,” the FHA adds.

Sa rasot a Cou nt y st a f f h as three primary goals for its Siesta Key initiative, Assistant County Engineer Larry Mau explained in a telephone interview with The SNL. The first, he said, is to prevent drag racing. The second is to discourage people from driving straight down

Avenida Messina to Beach Access 2, where illegal parking has been a long-time focus of complaints.

The third goal, Mau continued, is safety improvements, as a three-way stop sign will be installed at the intersection of Avenida Messina and Avenida Veneccia.

“The county is very aware of the problem with driving abuse and parking abuse in the area,” Mau pointed out. The chicane is one option for mitigating those problems, he said. “We’re very hopeful that it improves the situation.”

He called the initiative a “fairly economical” means of dealing with the issues. During the interview,

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he added that he did not have the cost estimate available but would provide it at a later date.

One facet of the project was the installation of an area of new landscaping, Mau said. That is “just to kind of dress it up,” he noted.

Planning for the project began months ago, Mau continued.

The Public Works Department staff originally planned to start construction in May or June, after the height of tourist season, he explained. “With the coronavirus closing the beach,” he said, “we felt it was a great time to get in here,” as traffic should not be a concern.

Sarasota County Administrator Jonathan Lewis announced on March 19 that the county would close all its public beaches and beach accesses as of 6 a.m. on March 21, in an effort to prevent large gatherings of people on the shoreline, which could lead to more spread of COVID-19.

Manatee County leaders already had decided to take the same step, Lewis pointed out, which was one consideration in the Sarasota County action. Additionally, Lewis noted that local government leaders had heard indications that groups of spring break students who had been forced away from closed Florida’s East Coast beaches would be headed to the west coast.

“We st a r ted [t he proje c t] yesterday,” Mau said on April 7.

“It’ll be finished by the end of the week.”

The crew generally will comprise about four people, he added.

For the past couple of years, residents routinely have complained during meetings of the Siesta Key Association (SKA) that drag racing had become a problem on Avenida Messina, which runs west to Beach Access 2 from Ocean Boulevard in Siesta Village.

Confusion about private property and Access 2 Increasingly over the past couple of years, residents and property owners have cited frustrations over illegal parking at Access 2, in spite of signage forbidding vehicles in that area. Private parcels seaward of North Beach Road are adjacent to that access, which also has caused confusion, residents and law enforcement officers have pointed out.

Siesta resident Mike Cosentino, who owns the property at 10 Beach Road, immediately adjacent to Access 2, has allowed personal vehicles on his land. However, owners of property south of him have declined to do so. Last year, county staff installed bollards to try to prevent public parking on the beach at Access 2 and on the private parcels.

In an April 5, 2019 memo, Col. Kurt Hoffman, chief deputy and general counsel of the Sarasota County Sheriff’s Office, wrote Major Paul Richard, commander of the Law Enforcement Division,

noting that Hoffman had met the previous day with county personnel, including County Engineer Spencer Anderson and Assistant County Attorney David Pearce, “regarding the issues related to Avenida Messina and Beach Road on Siesta Key.” After they reviewed “several surveys, property appraiser mapping, [county regulations], relevant signage and all pertinent en forcement history by our personnel,” Hoffman continued, Anderson agreed that “parking

by Mr. Cosentino [in a specific area] between the bollards [at Access 2] and Mr. Cosentino’s eastern property boundary will be allowed by Sarasota County.”

Public perception of the chicane During the telephone interview with the SNL, Assistant County Engineer Mau also said that the Public Works Department took the unusual initiative of having two county staff members talk to the property owners in the area of the chicane before the project began, given the “high sensitivity” of issues.

Normally, he said, with this type of road work, staff would not make such an effort.

Asked about the response from those staff contacted, Mau replied, “Most of it was positive. People see the need and the benefit.”

Additionally, he noted, as staff members worked on-site last week to lay out the plans, “We had a lot of positive comments from people walking by.”

One person who has objected to the chicane is property owner Michael Holderness, who has called, instead, for the installation of a gate at the intersection of Avenida Messina and Avenida Veneccia.

Referring to that request, Mau told the SNL, “That is not legally permissible.”

Public access to a paved and open public road must be maintained at all times, Mau stressed. The gate is not an option, he added, as long as Avenida Messina remains a public road. “We have to allow people on it.”

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15

Local Government is to Blame for Fences

By Michael Holderness, in his opinion The Covid-19 Pandemic has not only changed every aspect of our daily lives. It has also revealed some of the fundamental issues and conflicts that exist in our society.

For instance, private owners on

the taxes and is Sarasota’s (which includes the City) #1 financial driver.

Local government refuses to empower the Sheriff with the right tools to enforce the Governor’s order for Sarasota and all municipalities within. County chooses to NOT man-

Miramar Beach, south of an existing failed groin at presumed Access #2, need to fence private properties to prevent hundreds of vacationers from staying on them, the issues of who owns the beach and what a private owner can do to stop the spread of novel coronavirus come into light.

The state and county closed the public beaches, however, Siesta Key private homeowners had to fight to keep their private beach closed for public safety and welfare. Their reward was the threat of fraudulent citations from county officials that violated FL statues and the Constitution.

When the county announced public beaches and school closings in late March, thousands of locals swamped our beach lot in Miramar; while residences and businesses were trying to get their guests out of town.

Over the next 10 days, local government was begged daily to intervene the unsupervised mass gatherings.

Local government took no action other than their staff member’s continued abuse on the neighborhood.

This is NOT China.

First off, local governments can’t pick and choose when to abuse their authority. As THE CHARTER and the municipality over all municipalities within Sarasota County; County did not adhere to the governor’s covid-19 orders!

The Covid-19 pandemic only amplified the role the “Public Beach” Access signs have in forcing visitors to go through the access to stay in the private beach area and violate “beach close” orders.

What is the motivation of the county to force private beaches to remain open to the public after the Governor forced the county to close theirs? MONEY! Siesta Key, and its world class beaches, is a key donor community as it collects 1/3rd of

age, own or fund this neighborhood so, it’s not a county park.

Why Were Fences Forced? Per Sarasota county “Fences are NOT illegal.” Well, Sec. VII-1101. - Fences and walls and hedges. Open mesh or open chain link fences, up to a maximum of ten feet in height, are permitted” and December 2009, Sarasota County rejected a proposed ordinance that prohibited “signs, gates, barricades, fences, walls or physical impediments” seaward of a bluff to established line of vegetation. The ordinance was rejected per Sarasota County attorney. Regardless; Miramar is NOT a beach; but in fact, platted lots in a subdivision, like any other and owners would not have been forced to put up fences if LOCAL GOVERNMENT didn’t create “the situation.”

It was critical that County Government immediately enforce the “two-week stay at home” order our Governor gave to Sarasota County (not rely on citizens’ honor system) and stop forcing owners to keep their private properties on beaches open to the public!

Sarasota comp plan also requires public beaches to be part of coastal development project and established an official policy to use county funds to acquire beach lots and waterfront property. However, instead of preserving lands and managing them for public lands, Sarasota County instead added “Public Beach” signage all through Miramar. Siesta Key has the lowest public beach ownership and the highest number of beach access points with misleading “Public Beach” signs.

Amongst the eight-mile long shoreline, the county only owned the Siesta Key Public Beach. The number of public beaches owned by the county is very low. In terms of the public beach area, Sarasota County

is ranked among the lowest coastal counties in Florida. With around 10% of their sandy beaches in public ownership, the county falls significantly short of the statewide average of 40% but speaks for all beaches, public and private.

Unlike the county staff’s scheme (that l e d t o t h e FA K E NEWS Reopen Beach Rd. clan taking it upon themselves to cost taxpayers 1,000,000.00); county does NOT hold rights; owners do! i.e. Presumed to be public through-fare with NO Publicly owned Beach is unmanaged insanity.

Therefore, signage could never legally use “Public Beach” when through-fare, at best, means “No Stopping, Standing or Sitting.” in Miramar! ONLY MHWL rights to transverse south or to the ocean to swim. There is no stopping, sitting, or standing on accesses #2, #3, and #4 and certainly none along MHWL and said accesses in Miramar subdivision are the legal through-fares to private beach lots.

Unlike the main beach, there is no fund and very limited support for private beaches. It’s plain lawless from physical altercations towards owners; constant abuse and conflicts.

There is uncontrolled intensity (mostly vehicular), and most forget that outside the main beach are neighborhoods, not county owned public parks.

Gaining access at the pier, 4x4 trucks constantly doing donuts on the white sand.

We DEMAND LOCAL GOVERNMENT TO STEP UP AND DO WHAT IS REQUIRED TO PROPERLY MANAGE. Hence, the reason why 25-yearold signs state just that and why the road vacation wasn’t needed. Any thorough-fare must NOT include vehicular traffic and the County does not own any “public beaches” as “Public Beach” signage in Miramar reads, rendering the signages as misleading and highly possibly, illegal!

Local government does NOT have our public’s best interests in mind!

Did local government also forget The Florida Property Owner Bill of Rights or think they are above the law? Including but not limited to; *Limited ability to possess and protect private property *No right to quiet enjoyment of one’s property *Right to excluded others from one’s property (abused by county when attempted even during a pandemic) *RIGHT TO DUE PROCESS *Many others apply as well but takings are ILLEGALas are fraudulent easements.

County chooses to turn a blind eye on the city’s illegal activity but tied uses the same regulations to abuse their own citizens?! THIS IS AN ATTACK ON EVERYONE’S FREEDOM! The county still refuses to RED TAG the city as the city

is trying to dredge in the county/ state marine park without a COUNTY permit. The dredging of Big Pass is terrifying. Dr. Gilmore, Dr. Beach, and Mote Marine are all in agreement that it will impair global Sarasota/ Manatee’s water quality and wipe out the marine park.

It would also wipe out Siesta.

Who is our advocate when Sarasota County (under WNCA) is ignoring all local, regional and state laws, requirements, rules, ordinances, and statues? In my opinion, it’s all about financial gains and to set NEW precedents for the city to make billions on Lido and LBK. Unlike Siesta Key, how can Lido be called “private” and how could they use public funds to nourish it with public funding? In order to get federal funding to extend the private beach in the city out to 200’, i.e. “advanced nourishment”, the city needed more public parking spaces for its calculations stating it is public. See 200’ is NOT the natural contour of Lido… 85’ is Lido’s max.

Basically, the MORE public parking spaces, the more funding for more beach. Without this parking, this extended (200’ from 85’) project and all these issues would not exist. Red Tide Tom used “public parks spaces to count towards” public funding to obtain public funds to build up the private beach and privatize private beach. No consideration that a REAL BEACH (sustainable) is crescentshaped.

SPECIAL HIGH HAZARD ZONE. *USACOE MODELING SHOW OUR BEACHES WILL LIKELY LOSE 1,000 FEET! AND USACOE AFFIRMED BARWIN AND ALEX DAVIS-SHAW LIED ABOUT THE SAND VOLUME NEEDED. WAKE UP SARASOTA; BARWIN IS AGAINST LOCAL “REGULAR BOATERS“ AND WANTS OUR SAND. HE WILL DESTROY OUR WATER QUALITY FOR HIS SELFSERVING INTERESTS AND DEVELOPER MONEY! STRONGLY NOTE: SARASOTA COUNTY IS AGAIN NOT BEING YOUR ADVOCATE. WITH NO REGARDS TO HIS CITY’S TDT COLLECTORS/BUSINESS OWNERS AND THEIR STAFF; A CERTAIN TELL IS CITY MANAGER CANCELLED THE RACES IN ANTICIPATION TO DREDGE OUR BIG PASS ‘MARINE PARK’ i.e. #1 or 28 ESTUARY DESIGNATED

BY CONGRESSMAN VERN BUCHANAN “AN ESTUARY OF NATIONAL SIGNIFICANT” WHY SO SIGNIFICANT? BECAUSE IT’S THE LIFE-BLOOD OF OUR ECONOMY & CRUCIAL ECO-SYSTEM THAT COMBATS TOM BARWIN’S SEWAGE FED LOCALIZED RED TIDE; WITHOUT SEA GRASSES OUR WATER-QUALITY WILL 100% BE IMPAIRED! Stopping development is not the most important thing… KEEPING developers OUT of cut B, C, and our Shoal. They have more than what they want (not need) to extend pri-

Who the HECK is our advocate to protect us from the dredging, especially when the public funds are being used for the PRIVATE beaches inside THE CITY on Lido that even stayed open during the pandemic as private beaches?

Solution for all: Familiar with cut D3? I am not against developing.

-D3 can set the exact same precedent (can build out LBK) and holds 2MM of the most beautiful sand. I am not for using any of these sites, however D3 is not my fight. Go to D3 and SAVE Cut C. I think I can immediately get all/every lawsuit present and future dropped.

- Marine Park dredging will impair water quality and destroy Siesta. The southern groin will erode the southern tip out front of these spots used, and the groin will block public access to traverse to the north.

Show them our VOICE! SHARE, SHARE, SHARE - SARASOTA CITY STAFF MEMBER, CITY MANAGER, RED TIDE TOM BARWIN CANCELLED THE BOAT RACES AND PLANS ON STEALING OUR SIESTA QUARTZ SAND ONLY TO EXTEND THE MAN-MADE LIDO BEACH OUT ANOTHER 200’ (TO BUILD EVEN MORE HIGH-RISES) ON TAX PAYER’S DIME! WAVE HEIGHTS TO DOWN-TOWN LIDO and SIESTA WERE AVERAGED. AVULSION AND WAVE-HEIGHTS WILL BE DEADLY AND MOST CERTAINLY PUT SIESTA IN A

vate beach out a +200’ in cut D3. D3 isn’t my fight.

Any COUNTY commissioner can step in and should stop the city.

If they say they can’t, you tell me personally and we’ll call them out commissioners@scgov.net Picture showed us what happened when they merely dug a hole and used our sand to develop man-made Bird Key in 1950. Hence the reason for all our local and regional regular environmental regulations, rules, laws, ordinances, and statutes that City is illegally avoiding. *Said environment regulations, rules, laws, ordinances, and statutes is why COUNTY was given the charter that holds the county to a HIGHER standard and DUTY as the WNCA i.e. County is the jurisdictional authority over our inlet waterways, bays, and waters out to 9 miles.

Key Stakeholders who live here depend on it! Marine Life, Public Beach Users (residents and visitors), Sarasota County, Siesta Key Residents, Private Beachfront Landowners on Lido, and NOT the Count y Government and city manager, “RED TIDE Tom” Barwin’s special interests. *Donations are important and appreciated, visit skedf.org This space is paid for by Siesta Key resident and business owner, Michael Holderness.

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Siesta Sand

MAY 2020

941.312.0665

www.siestasand.net

Sheriff’s office addresses impact of COVID-19 on office

By Siesta Sand staff T h e S i e s t a S a n d r e c e nt ly conduc te d a Q&A w it h t he Sheriff’s office on the impact of the COVID-19 had on their office and the community. Here is the transcript of that conversation.

Q: How has the COVID-19 situation impacted the day-to-day operations of the Sheriff’s office?

By all accounts, we are still operating business as usual. Our Health & Safety team has worked hard behind the scenes to ensure personnel have access to the proper safety equipment in all locations, including on the road in a Patrol capacity and behind the walls of our Correctional Facility, which is where the greatest impact has been.

By way of background, here are a few highlights of the changes that have taken place at our facility. Our efforts date back to early March: • Sanitizer placed in additional locations within the facility and at all entrances and exits.

All work stations equipped with Sani-wipes and hand sanitizer. New signage installed

cleaning detail cleans common area surfaces within the facility (door knobs, buttons, faucets).

All employees responsible for wiping down work stations and nearby common areas.

• A ll pods and control rooms equipped with Isolation Kits (PPE).

• N otification email sent to all local arresting agencies outlining new intake screening procedures in which arrestees rem a i n i n pat rol veh icle where nursing staff conduct assessments.

Sgt. Arik Smith outside pre-intake door in sally port explaining what to do if an arrestee is exhibiting signs of COVID-19. This location has surgical masks to place over the arrestee’s nose and mouth if exhibiting signs of virus.

• At the start of each shift, a trustee

• Inventoried all PPE, sanitizer, soap, toiletries, and masks. All items in sufficient amounts, additional items ordered and/ or requested.

• All facility programs and school suspended through May 4, 2020.

• A l l pu n it ive s entence s suspended.

• Baker Acts evaluated by Coastal

personnel remotely.

• Sheriff’s Offender Work Program suspended indefinitely.

•S hift briefings suspended.

• S chool essay assignments distributed to inmates via tablets.

• All attorney and court ordered psychiatrist visits held in pod attorney visit rooms separated by glass, or via video visitation.

• C DC informational videos shown in all housing locations daily.

• O nsite visitation suspended effective March 21st.

• Visit from Sarasota County Health Department officials to inspect facility.

Q. Has there been any reduction in workforce?

As of today, we have had 34 workrelated exposures and currently only one employee still out due to an exposure. We have also had 10 employees out due to travel.

Fourteen employees have been tested for COVID19 and all 14 were negative. We currently have only 10 employees working from home, out of more than 1,000. We are adequately staffed across the board.

Q. Has there been any change in the focus of the Sheriff’s office?

Si nce t he i n it ial outbreak, the sheriff’s office has used an “education before enforcement” approach which does not stray far from our traditional methods in rightful policing. As the governor continues to issue orders which can be enforced at the local level, we are treating each citizen contact on a case-by-case basis and doing our best to educate before we must enforce. To date, no citations have been issued or arrests made for folks not social distancing. Again, by all accounts, it is business as usual for us.

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Q. What have you noticed during the stay at home order? Are people adhering to the order?

We have had an overwhelming amount of self-compliance with the order. For the most part, citizens are self-policing and staying indoors, while most non-essential businesses have also followed orders and voluntarily shut down.

Q. H ow is the Sheriff’s office enforcing the order?

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I woke up and helped him look.

One shop owner asks another, “So, you have you had any response yet to your ad that you’re looking for a night security guard?”

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When the police show up, they ask him what happened. The shaken turtle replies, “I don’t know. It all happened so fast.”

Sixty is the worst age to be,” said the 60 year old. “You always feel like you have to pee. And most of the time, you stand at the toilet and nothing comes out!”

“Ah, that’s nothing”, said the 70

over regulate the community. The community is going to do what it needs to do. We don’t need to smother the community.

Q. H ow is the sheriff’s office practicing social distancing when enforcing the law?

For deputies working in a Patrol capacity, as mentioned above, they are equipped with PPE gear and able to wear their own personal cloth face covering if they choose to.

They are also communicating with residents during calls for service to find out if the resident/caller is exhibiting symptoms or has been exposed.

Q. With the Sarasota schools closed has there been an increase of students coming to the island and beaches during the stay at home order?

As mentioned above, people are self-policing themselves. We have not had a major issue on the public beaches however, we have received intermittent calls about social gatherings on private beaches; mostly from citizens who we have been communicating with for years related to the same specific properties on Siesta Key. Q. Has there been any criminal activity on Siesta Key related to people trying to take advantage of COVID-19 situation? (e.g. fraud schemes; theft at closed businesses).

We have not looked at Siesta Key specifically, but we are just now finishing our total crime stats for unincorporated Sarasota County for the month of March. Once those are complete, I will be happy to send them over to you. Likewise, the crime stats for April are probably worth looking at since that is when the stay-at-home order went into effect. Those should be ready by mid-May. I can tell you anecdotally that there has been nearly a 40% reduction in arrests. Nearly 45% of all detainees are being released on their own recognizance also known as “ROR” or on supervised released, also known as “SPR.” This number is a significant increase from the same time last year when the average was 21%.

Q. A ny words of advice to the residents?

Keep doing what you are doing.

Sarasota County is a great place to live and we are lucky to have a great community who knows what it is doing. The longer we stick this out together and abide by the directives we are given, the sooner we will be able to go back to life as usual.

year old. “When you’re seventy, you don’t have a bowel movement anymore. You take laxatives, eat bran, you sit on the toilet all day and nothing comes out!”

“Actually,” said the 80 year old, “eighty is the worst age of all.”

“Do you have trouble peeing, too?” asked the 60 year old.

“No, not really. I pee every morning at 6:00. I pee like a racehorse on a flat rock, no problem at all.”

“Do you have trouble having a bowel movement?”

“No, I have one every morning at 6:30.”

With great exasperation, the 60 year old said, “Let me get this straight. You pee every morning at 6:00 and poop every morning at 6:30. So what’s so tough about being 80?”

“I don’t wake up until 7:00.”

www.siestasand.net

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MAY 2020

Sheriff’s Report 3/16 Battery

3/29 Juvenile Arrest

The defendant claimed that three white males came up to him, called him names and tackled him to the ground. The defendant then began throwing punches at whoever he could, just to get the men off of him. He stated that those same three men had also jumped an acquaintance of his just a few minutes prior, so that is what escalated the fight.

However, the victim stated that it was the defendant who initiated the fight by running after him and his friends and sucker-punching one of them. The defendant then proceeded to fight with anybody who t r ie d to i nt e r ve n e a nd punched another person in the eye. Video footage of the incident revealed that the defendant was, in fact, the main offender.

Pol i c e r e s p o n de d wh e n a complainant called and described 3-4 males driving around and trying door handles on vehicles. The caller said when he approached the car the suspects were driving, they tried to run him over by driving into the yard he was standing in.

Officers reported to the scene and pursued a vehicle speeding away which matched the description given by the witness. Using two well-executed PIT maneuvers and a tire deflation device, police were finally able to stop the vehicle. A foot chase ensued, and one juvenile was caught after being tasered. Police reviewed surveillance footage of the suspects attempting to break into several vehicles and stealing a 2014 Tesla from a garage. Money and other items were also stolen from some of the cars. The captured juvenile had two Infinity key fobs that he stole from the inside of one of the vehicles. The juvenile admitted to at least five vehicle burglaries, stealing the Infinity keys found in his pocket, and being present while another man stole the Hyundai Genesis they were driving at the time of the police chase.

The juvenile was charged with burglary of an occupied dwelling, and investigation continues into the remaining suspects.

3/17 Identity Theft The victim is a non-Florida resident, vacationing on Siesta Key. After having trouble with her cell phone, the victim called her phone provider, Verizon, and explained her issues. They informed her that her phone number had been ported out to AT&T, and two brand new cell phones had been ordered under her name and account. Soon after, the victim’s bank notified her that someone had ordered two new ATM cards and transferred $8,000.00 from her savings account to her checking account. The victim believed that after the two ATM cards were delivered, the offender was plan ning to withdraw the $8,000.00 f rom her checking account. Complete investigation is pending, and the case remains open.

3/23 Vehicle Burglary A stolen vehicle was recovered by police. In the car was the victim’s wallet with the gift cards and certificates that the victim left. However, the cash in the wallet was not recovered.

3/25 Vehicle Burglary The victim called the sheriff’s office after she noticed her wallet missing from her vehicle. She had parked outside a friend’s house and went for a walk, under the mistaken belief that she had locked the vehicle. When she returned, she searched the vehicle and determined that her wallet had been stolen. Investigation continues.

3/29 Battery At approximately midnight, the victim and her friend arrived at a party to which they were invited.

The victim and her friend were in the pool when two women began yelling from the second story of the house for the women to leave the pool. When they did not comply, the women came down from the second floor of the home and began punching one of the women in the pool. The victim then came and stood between her friend and the attackers. Because of this, she was then hit in both her head and neck and eventually pulled by her hair from the pool.

The aggressors continued to hit her in the head and neck after they pulled her from the pool. After a while, the fight ended and the victims left and were later taken to the hospital by family members.

There were no significant injuries to either of the victims. Investigation revealed that the property in question was rented, and the tenant claimed that the incident was a big misunderstanding and she did not know the identities of the aggressors. It is anticipated that a photographic lineup will be forthcoming to positively identify the main aggressor.

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Siesta Sand

MAY 2020

941.312.0665

www.siestasand.net

After 13 Years, Pizzeria Closes Siesta Key Store DELIVERY TO SIESTA KEY WILL CONTINUE FROM GULF GATE STORE

By Jane Bartnett to their new life in Sarasota. Although Philip was only 21, he convinced his parents that there was an untapped demand for the family’s brand of “Jersey pizza shops” here on Florida’s West Coast. The family made the move south and in 2004, Soloranzano’s Restaurant in Gulf Gate made its debut.

In 2007, Philip and his brother Carlos, Jr., opened Soloranzano Bros. Pizzeria on Siesta Key. T he bu si ne ss grew. Today, Carlos Jr. owns Soloranzano Bros. Old-Fashioned Pizza on Beneva and Webber. With 13 years of success behind him, Philip continued to manage the original Siesta Key store along with his other five Phil Soloranzano at work in his kitchen, creating one of his iconic “Jersey pies.” locations. He continues a decades long history of bringing coveted through 13 years of growth and Embracing community has become some tough times, including the a part of the New Jersey born Siesta family recipes to many appreciative diners. year of Red Tide. “Everyone told me Key resident’s business ethic.

“Just what makes Soloranzano’s I wouldn’t last a year,” he recalled That spirit of community and as he looked back on how he began. family is what Soloranzano says so special? The pizzeria’s website “Coming together as a community is the secret to his success. “My name “nobodymakespizzalikewedo. has always been important to us,” grandfather is the guy who started com” sums it up. Traditional Italian he wrote on a recent Facebook post it all,” Soloranzano once said. technique and recipes “used by after the Corona Virus pandemic An immigrant from the town of our Italian ancestors” is the secret upended day-to-day life on the Key. Avellino, Italy, Filippo Centrella ingredient, the website states.The Soloranzano announced his support and his brother found success after Soloranzano’s dough is from their for health care workers battling the opening several Northern New own recipe, as are their meatballs virus, just as he has over the years Jersey pizzerias. Philip’s parents met and sauce. “We hope every evening when Siesta Key, and the nation at one of those pizzerias and carried at our restaurants, it takes you back to those Sunday dinners at your faced other crises. He has repeatedly on the family’s pizzeria tradition. “payed it forward” for those in need “A 2003 fam ily vacat ion to own house.”

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O n Apr i l 27, t he do or s of Soloranzano’s Siesta Key Pizzeria on Avenida Medina closed for the last time. “Siesta Key was my first spot” the iconic pizzeria’s owner Philip Soloranzano told the Siesta Sand. However, as business conditions changed, he made the decision to continue to serve the Siesta Key community with direct deliveries from his Gulf Gate store.

“Because 90% of our business is take out delivery, our customers on the Key will still be able to get everything on our menu,” he said. He added that “the prices will be lower.” Soloranzano is also taking his “million dollar” Siesta Key phone number (941-349-BROS) to the Gulf Gate store. “So many regular customers know that phone number,” he said. “We have regular visitors and tourists from all around the world. They call in their orders first thing when they get off the plane,” he reported.

Since opening the Siesta Key pizzeria 13 years ago, Soloranzano h a s a l s o op e n e d f ive o t h e r Soloranzano’s Pizzeria stores in Gulf Gate, Venice, Longboat Key, Northport, and Anna Maria Island.

For Soloranzano regulars, the move to Gulf Gate will not be a surprise. “We’ve been telling people for years that we’re moving,” he noted. “I opened the Gulf Gate store five years ago with the plan of moving the Siesta Key location.

The Gulf Gate location offers diners the full Soloranzano menu as well as an Arcade room and a full liquor selection. He will also continue to operate his four other locations in Ana Maria Island, Longboat Key, Venice, and Northport.

His flair for the business side of the restaurant business has led him

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6 7 8 9 11 13 14 10 12

awarded Soloranzano Pizza with their “Best Pizza” honor. It wasn’t the first time that the magazine toasted the eatery. In 2014, Sarasota Magazine’s annual recognition gave the pizzeria the nod for Best Sauce. “Soloranzano Bros.’ sauce is a perfect marriage of flavors: flavorful enough to stand on its own, but not so bold that it overpowers the flavor of the pizza’s excellent cheese or dough,” reported the publication.

Last year, Trip Advisor also honored Soloranzano’s Late Night Pizzeria with their “Top Rated” online honors, as the #1 pizzeria four years in a row, and with a top rating for Italian cuisine.

Looking ahead to better days beyond Covid-19, Soloranzano spoke of his loyal customers and employees.

He also hopes to franchise and grow his pizzeria business. “If it wasn’t for Siesta Key, I wouldn’t be where I am today,” he stated. “Our last day for the Siesta Key store was April 27, but we’ll be right over the south bridge at 6574 Superior Ave Sarasota, Gulf Gate. We will always serve #RealJerseyPizza to Siesta Key, 941349-BROS!” #3 - Trip Advisor and Sarasota Maga zi ne bot h recog n i zed Soloranzano’s with awards in 2019

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HOROSCOPE PAGE 32

VILLAGE MAP pgs 20 - 21

ACCOMMODATIONS PAGE 39

CRESCENT BEACH MAP pg 22 GULF GATE SHOPS pg 27

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Flag Ceremony T he orga n i zed t r ibute ceremonies that Captain Ralph St yles (a decorated WWII Submarine Captain in the Pacific Theater) began about 30 years ago are currently suspended due to the COVID-19 pandemic. However, at each sunset, small informal groups in our community still came together to pay tribute on Siesta Key at 10 Beach Road on Patriot’s Pier as we now say: “Welcome to Patriots Pier at Sunset Point!

We thank you for joining our Patriots Tribute to honor the sacrifices of our Military a nd S er v ice Person nel i n protecting our Country and Our Freedoms! We are the Land of the Free because of the Brave!”

Honor in the midst of crisis All but a few people honoring the 6’ social distancing guidelines as they gather for the flag ceremony at Patriot’s Point the night before all county beaches were closed due to the Coronavirus outbreak.

As we continue in the thoughts and Prayers as Our Honorary Chaplain Janet Hamel Solomon has led us in many invocations here at Patriots Pier, let’s also remember, this special place in paradise has become not only a special place for locals of our “Village” but for new friends from around the world, for weddings, celebrations of life, hope, inspiration, spirituality, a nd for Pat r iot b el ieve r s changing and understanding their Service and destiny!

The minerals and quartz and awesome sunsets provide an environment of energy! Every moment here is special and uplifting in ways and emotions that cannot be explained! Until we meet together again …

Peace and Prayers to all!

Don’t Waste Your Island Time Crossing Bridges!

We are conveniently located just a few steps from Crescent Beach and minutes away from anywhere on the Key.

• Full Service Grocery • Party Trays • Boar’s Head Meat & Cheese • Domestic & Micro Beers • Fabulous Deli Sandwiches Made to Order! • Largest Wine Selection on Siesta Key • Farm Fresh Produce • Beach Supplies • Butcher Shop • Take Out Meals

We Deliver to Siesta Key!

941-312-0472 fax: 941-312-9588

www.crescentbeachgrocery.com

1211 Old Stickney Point Rd., Siesta Key, FL 34242 (corner of Stickney Pt. and Midnight Pass Rd.)

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Siesta Sand

MAY 2020

941.312.0665

SEEN in the Sand...

In this issue, Seen in the Sand (or seen at least six feet away from the entrance to the parking lot adjacent to the sand) features 14-year-old Maggie, who visited Siesta Key prior to the stay-at-home-order and the closure of the public beach.

Island Chatter

Do you have a favorite memory from your time on SK?

We saw dolphins when we were boating, and it was amazing! I loved eating at the outdoor restaurants in the village.

What do you enjoy doing in your free time in Austin?

I read a lot. I row crew for my school, and I hang out with my friends as much as possible! Update: pandemic activities for our family include hiking, playing games, and baking.

What books would you recommend for beach reading?

Little Women or The Cheerleaders. The Cheerleaders is terrifying with fatalities… so probably go with Little Women for lighter beach reading.

What food is delicious?

Mac and cheese!

What food is disgusting?

Oysters!

What is your favorite animal?

Where were you born and raised (to date)?

Austin, Texas. I live there with my parents and younger sister and brother.

How often have you visited SK? This is my first visit to Siesta Key. I would like to return!

What have you enjoyed doing while you are on SK? Going to the beach and having fun exploring the Intercoastal by boat.

What is something unique or surprising to you about SK? I was surprised by the beautiful, clear water.

Dogs. I have two soft-coated Wheaten Terriers – Teddy is five and Winston is 11 months.

What is something that you are scared of?

Birds. Their little eyes stare at me.

What is your favorite class in school, and what do you want to be when you grow up?

I love science, and I hope to become a doctor.

If you could travel to a faraway place for a day, where would you go?

Um…the moon…?

The original bill would have “grandfathered in” Sarasota County’s existing regulations, as they were in effect prior to a date included in the bill. Nonetheless, local leaders were worried that an amendment during consideration of the new law would remove that stipulation.

A hard decision for the Daiquiri Deck After Gov. Ron DeSantis issued an executive order that closed restaurants, a March 23 email to Sarasota Mayor Jen Ahearn-Koch let her know that the Daiquiri Decks would not be staying o p e n f o r t a k e o ut a n d delivery services, as other dining establishments have.

M at t Gr ove r, o n e o f the three Daiquiri Deck owners, wrote, “It is with sadness I report to you that the Daiquiri Deck will suspend a ll operat ion s and be completely closed as of this morning at all locations. Our attempt to stay open was to support our staff but now it is clear that this is unsustainable.

Our remaining perishable i nventor y w i l l go to charitable organizations that can efficiently supply those in need.”

Grover added that he and his partners — Troy Syprett and Russell Matthes —

ACCOMMODATIONS Siesta Key Beach Resort & Spa.......... Map-A #38A ATM / BANKS PNC ATM.........................................Map-C #61 Sun Trust Bank & ATM..................... Map-E #4 BARS & NIGHTCLUBS Blaśe Café...................................... Map-A #38 Daiquiri Deck Raw Bar........... Map-B #42-43 Gilligan’s.........................................Map-B #33 My Village Pub......................... Map-C #53/54 Siesta Key Oyster Bar....................Map-B #45 The Beach Club............................... Map-D #22 The Cottage......................................Map-C #58 The Hub-Baja Grill......................... Map-D #59 COFFEE SHOPS Bean Coffeehouse......................... Map-D #62 Mojo Risin’ Coffee Company......Map-B #31 DRUGSTORE Davidson Drugs............................ Map-D #65 FASHION & ACCESSORIES Beach Bazaar’s & Swin Shack..... Map-C #28 Blvd. Beachwear.............................. Map-B #30 Comfort Shoes-Birki & More..... Map-D #64 Foxy Lady Fashions...................... Map-A #40 Ganja Mon Vibes.............................. Map-D #9 Gidget’s Coastal Provisions.........Map-B #44 Island Boutique............................... Map-B #50 Island Style.......................................Map-C #53 Lilly Pulitzer.................................. Map-D #66 Sea Shanty........................................Map-C #24 Siesta T’s........................................... Map-B #30 The Sandal Factory......................... Map-B #46 GAS STATION Circle K Store..................................... Map-E #6 GIFTS & SOUVENIRS Beach Bazaar.................................. Map-C #28 Gilligan’s Gift Store......................... Map-B #32 Island Trader....................................Map-C #51 Sea Pleasures & Treasures..............Map-C #29 Siesta Key Outfitters.....................Map-D #12

Barber Scott Reich

Formerly of the Village Barber

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

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

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

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

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

HEALTH & FITNESS Indep. Lifestyle Solutions ............ Map-D #10 Siesta Healing................................... Map-D #9 Siesta Key Fitness..........................Map-B #73 ICE CREAM/SWEETS Big Olaf Creamery...........................Map-C #52 Curly Cream Ice Cream................... Map-D #9 Local Chill Ice Cream................... Map-D #60 Made in Rome Organic Gelato......Map-C #53 Meany’s Mini Donuts.....................Map-C #24 Stefano Versace Gelato...................Map-C #50 SubZero Ice Cream/Yogurt.......... Map-D #16 The Fudge Factory..........................Map-A #36 INTERNET / WiFi SERVICES Davidson Drugs............................ Map-D #65 Mojo Risin’ Coffee Company......Map-B #31 JEWELRY Created Gems..................................Map-C #51 Mount -N- Repair Jewelers............. Map-D #9 LIQUOR STORES / FINE WINES Gabbiano’s Wine Club................. Map-D #70 Gilligan’s.........................................Map-B #33 Siesta Key Wine Bar..................... Map-C #61 Siesta Village Liquors.................. Map-C #26 The Beach Club............................... Map-D #22

www.siestasand.net

Continued from page6

“feel it is a privilege to do business here. We appreciate the work of everyone at the City of Sarasota and hope the best for all of you and the citizens of Sarasota.”

He signed the email, “In Strength.”

The original Daiquiri Deck stands in Siesta Village.

O ve r t he pa st de c ade, Syprett, Matthes and Grover expanded the business to locations in Venice, on St. Armands Circle in the city of Sarasota, and on Stickney Point Road.

A happy note for beach-nesting birds, so far With Sarasota County Sheriff’s Office personnel a nd cou nt y e mploye e s working to keep people off Siesta Public Beach, in accord with the county’s M a r c h d i r e c t i ve, i s it possible the endangered snowy plovers might see chicks survive and thrive this year?

As of the deadline for this Siesta Sand issue, the outlook appeared positive.

Kylie Wi lson, coordinator of Audubon Florida’s Bird Monitoring & Stewardship Program in Sarasota County, wrote, i n a March 27 email to volunteers and supporters, “It has been an exciting week. … [W]e officially

have our first nest of the season! Ms. Sanibel, the b a n d e d S n ow y P l ove r who has nested on Siesta the past two seasons, has returned and is already on a nest with 3 eggs!”

Wilson noted the sig nificance of that ob s er vat ion: “T h i s i s earlier nesting for Snowy Plove r s on Sie st a t h a n we have observed in past sea son s. Mayb e due to less activity because of the beach closures? Normally Spring Break is happening this time of year and our plovers seem to wait it out, typically nesting in mid to late April.”

Wilson added t hat i n lo ok i ng for t he “si lve r lining” of the COVID-19 pandemic, she was s p e c u l at i n g t h at w it h fewer people on t he beach, “the birds are able to nest and rest with less disturbance!”

O n A p r i l 5, W i l s o n prov ide d mor e p ote nt i a l ly go od news for t h e Sie st a plove r s, a f ter ack nowledg i ng again the vastly different circumstances under which she is working this season: “This week has been a little crazy but the good news is that I am still able to survey the beaches. I will be cutting back my Continued on next page

www.siestasand.net

941.312.0665

Island Chatter

MAY 2020

Sea turtles arrive on Siesta Key

Continued from previous page

surveys to once a week for each Siesta, but predators snatched site to minimize my time outside. them before they could reach It is a very difficult time we are the point of being able to fly, in now but staying home is the Wilson and Audubon volunteers number one thing we can do. reported.

Audubon is taking all necessary Siesta Key Crystal precautions,” she continued, for which, she noted, she is “very Classic International thankful.”

Sand Sculpting Festival As a member of Audubon’s dates announced s t a f f, Wi l s o n adde d, “I a m The Siesta Key Chamber of working closely with the county to keep the birds safe and being Commerce believes it’s important sure to follow the state guidelines to look a head a nd fo c u s on positive initiatives and future to keep myself safe.”

T hen t u r n i ng to t he latest events that greatly benefit our s it u at io n o n Siesta, she n o t e d , “O u r Snowy Plover mom ma, Ms. Sanibel, is still dutifully sitting on her nest. There is a not her pa i r that seems to be settling in [o n a n o t h e r section of public beach].

T h at fem a le is gravid, mea n i ng she looks to be carrying eggs, so hopef u l ly we will have our second nest soon!”

T h e p a s t Andy Daily, Master Sand Sculpture, will take the lead as Sand c o u p l e o f Management Team Coordinator for the Siesta Key Crystal Classic International Sand Sculpting. years, chicks have hatched on Continued page 38

By Siesta Sand editorial staff On April 20, 2020, Stephanie Kettle of Mote Marine Laboratory & Aquarium announced the annual arrival of sea turtles in the Sarasota area. Mote’s Sea Turtle Conservation & Research Program (STCRP) began monitoring Sarasota area beaches on April 15, and found the first loggerhead nest on Siesta Key. Mote reported that Sarasota County is the densest area of loggerhead nesting on Florida’s west coast, although green sea turtles’ nest here as well.

According to Mote data for the week of April 26th – May 2nd, there 28 loggerhead nests have been identified so far this season. This includes 6 nests on Siesta Key, eight on Longboat Key, 10 nests on Casey Key, and 4 on Venice.

Siesta Key has 4 more sea turtle nests compared to this time last year, according to the Mote data. Overall, there are 6 more nests on the five beaches this year compared to last year totals.

Mote provides the following information on their website about how we can all protect sea turtles: • If you encounter a nesting turtle or hatchlings, remain quiet and observe from a distance.

• Shield or turn off outdoor lights that are visible on the beach from May through October.

• Close drapes after dark and put beach furniture far back from the water.

• Fill in holes that may entrap hatchlings on their way to the First documented sea turtle nest on Siesta Key. water.

Photo courtesy of Mote Marine Laboratory.

• Do not approach nesting turtles or hatchlings, make contact Mote Marine Laboratory’s noise, shine lights at turtles, or use Stranding Investigations Program flashlights, cell phone lights, or at 941-988-0212. fishing lamps on the beach.

Outside of Sarasota or Manatee • Do not encourage a turtle to move counties, please call the Florida while nesting or pick up hatchlings Fish and Wildlife Conservation that have emerged and are heading Commission (FWC) at 888-404for the water.

Loggerhead Loggerhead FWCC (3922).

Year Total Key Name Nests FCs • Do no use fireworks on the beach.

If you suspect that someone 2020 Longboat Key 8 10 • Follow Coast Guard-approved is tampering with a sea turtle Lido Key 0 0 Siesta Key 6 3 safe boating guidelines and use nest, harassing a sea turtle or has Casey Key 10 21 Venice 4 4 vigilance to avoid striking sea possession of a sea turtle or any of turtles and other large marine life. its parts, please call FWC or your Total 28 38 • Be sure to stow trash and line when local sheriff’s department.

Data for the week of April 26th-May under way. Marine debris that 2nd from the Mote Marine Laboratory & If you find sea turtle hatchlings Aquarium. accidentally blows overboard that are not on the beach or are or out of a truck can become headed away from the ocean, call There are also 38 false crawls ingested by or entangled around Mote’s STCRP for instructions at reported (FCs on the chart). False marine life.

941-388-4331. Do not put hatchlings crawls are when a female sea turtle • Wear polarized sunglasses to in water or take them into air crawled onto the beach and returns better see marine life in your path. conditioning. Hatchlings heading to the ocean without leaving a nest.

If you see a sick, injured or towards the ocean should be left You can follow weekly nesting stranded sea turtle in Sarasota alone. numbers at mote.org/2020nesting. o r M a n at e e c ou nt y wat e r s, How can we all protect sea turtles

MAILING - SHIPPING US Post Office................................. Map-D #65

WHAT BETTER WAY TO START YOUR DAY IN PARADISE!

MARKETS/FOOD STORES Circle K Store..................................... Map-E #6 Morton’s Siesta Market................ Map-C #25

• Organic and Fair Trade Coffees & Teas • Cold Pressed Coffee • Organic Smoothies • Light Lunch (Sandwiches) • Breakfast Sandwiches, Bagels & Lox • Homemade Pastries

MASSAGE Hands of Light Massage................ Map-B #35 The Spa at Calle Minorga............... Map-E #74 MEDICAL - DENTAL Sarasota Medical Center................ Map-D #63 Siesta Dental..................................... Map-B #49 Siesta Key Physical Therapy......... Map-D #20 MISCELLANEOUS Chamber of Commerce................Map-D #67 Prime Audio Video........................... Map-E #1 Roberti Enterprises.........................Map-A #39 Village Arcade..................................Map-C #53 PROFESSIONAL SERVICES Attorney Fleming.............................. Map-E #1 Edward Jones Investments.......... Map-D #68 Smith Architects.................................Map-E 74

48 46

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

941-260-6400

Map D #62

Coffee Shop • Tea Room • 5138 Ocean Blvd., Siesta Key Village

REAL ESTATE / RENTAL SERVICES Amy Robinson RE............................. Map-E #1 Coldwell Banker Realty................. Map-D #20 EXP Realty.........................................Map-E #4 Judith Guzzi & Assoc..................... Map-E #74 Keller Williams Real Estate............Map-D #11 Michael Saunders Realty..............Map-E #72 ReMax Alliance Group................ Map-C #29 RentSiestaKey.com........................... Map-D #9 Robasota Rentals & Real Estate.....Map-A #39 Siesta Key Rental Prop.................. Map-D #10 The Ringling Beach House Rentals...Map-D #9 Tropical Sands Accommodations......Map-D #67

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27th State Media LLC

Arizona White

Mayari Mocha Arizona Sun

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Bringing you quality and comfort for more than 30 years!

Birkenstock & More 5128 Ocean Blvd. Siesta Village

941-346-7425 www.rickscomfortshoes.com

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CRESCENT BEACH SHOP INDEX BARS & NIGHTCLUBS Capt. Curt’s Backroom Saloon................B-3 #7 Crescent Club.......................................... C-3 #13 Sniki Tiki....................................................B-3 #8 COFFEE SHOPS Coffee Garden................................... B-3 #8 DELIS / BAKERIES Anna’s Deli & Sandwiches.................. C-3 #14 Nutritious You......................................... C-3 #14 The Beach Deli @ Crescent Beach Grocery......B-3 #1 DRUG STORES Davidson Drugs..................................... C-3 #14 FASHION & ACCESSORIES Fin Island Co.............................................. A-3 #2 CB’s Saltwater Outfitters........................ A-3 #4 Coconuts Fashion......................................B-3 #1 Green Turtle Swimwear......................... C-3 #14 Key Casual Fashions............................... D-3 #17

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

Crescent Club...........................................B-3 #13 Siesta Spirits............................................. C-3 #17 MAILING & SHIPPING Mail Pack Center..................................... C-3 #14 US Post Office Sub Station..................... C-3 #14 MARKETS 7-11 Store.................................................. C-3 #16 Big Water Fish Market.......................... C-3 #17 Crescent Beach Grocery...........................B-3 #1 REAL ESTATE / RENTALS Beckmann Properties.............................. C-2 #15 Homes & Condo Rentals........................ D-3 #17 Re/Max Tropical Sands............................B-3 #1 Siesta 4-Rent............................................ C-3 #14 Waterside Realty.................................... C-3 #17 RESTAURANTS / CAFES Big Water Fish Market................................C-3 #17 Boatyard Waterfront Bar & Grill...............A-5 #12

Capt. Curts Crab & Oyster Bar.................B-3 #7 City Pizza Italian Restaurant................. D-3 #17 Clayton’s Siesta Grille...............................B-3 #9 Daiquiri Deck.................................................A-3 #2 Spear Fish Grill..............................................A-4 #5 Toasted Mango Cafe....................................C-3 #17 Miguel’s Restaurant................................ C-3 #17 WATER SPORTS - FISHING - RENTALS A to Z Beach & Bike Rentals.................. A-5 #12 FIN Island Co. ........................................... A-3 #2 CB’s Saltwater Outfitters........................ A-3 #4 Parasail Siesta........................................... A-3 #2 Siesta Key Bike & Kayak ........................B-3 #8 Siesta Key Marina.................................... A-4 #5 Siesta Key Jetski ........................................ A-3 #2 Siesta Sports Rentals............................. C-3 #14 Waves Boat & Social Club...................... A-5 #12

Home of the Orange Squeeze HAND MADE:

941.346.0202

• Ice Cream • Sundaes • Shakes

www.orangeoctopusicecream.com

OPEN DAILY 11AM - 10PM

1220 Old Stickney Point Road

Expires 12/31/20

BIKES · BEACH STUFF · KAYAKS PADDLEBOARDS · SCOOTER CARS BEACH WHEELCHAIRS · SCOOTERS

Book Your Next Adventure Online. We Deliver!

BOOK ONLINE OR CALL AT:

RideAndPaddle.com

(941)-346-1797 6551 Midnight Pass Road Southbridge Mall Siesta Key, FL 34242

BOOK ONLINE & SAVE $5.00 OFF YOUR NEXT WEEKLY BIKE RENTAL WITH COUPON CODE: V2019

Map B-3#8

Boatyard Waterfront Bar & Grill 1500 Stickney Point Rd.

Anna’s Deli 6535 Midnight Pass Rd.

MAP C-3 #14

Big Water Fish Market 6641 Midnight Pass Road

CB’s Saltwater Outfitters 1249 Stickney Point Rd.

MAP A-3 #4

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

Crescent Beach Grocery 1211 Old Stickney Pt. Rd.

MAP B-3 #1

Davidson Drugs 6595 Midnight Pass Rd.

MAP C-3 #14

Siesta 4-Rent 6555 Midnight Pass Rd.

Toasted Mango Cafe 6621 Midnight Pass Rd.

MAP C-3 #17

MAP C-4 #17

MAP C-3 #14

MAP A-5 #12

www.siestasand.net

941.312.0665

MAY 2020

Snapshots of Island Visitors

27th State Media LLC

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Photos by Jaye Clements - Sarasota Photography

Spring Break was packed once again this month… These were some of our last visitors to SKB! Just after that we closed the beaches and SK beach became desolate! It was nice to take a ride along Beach Road to see nature at its best…

Nothing but gorgeous white sand, sunshine, and beautiful blue water... So grateful to be able to see SK beach even if it was from a distance!

1

3

2

4

5

6

7

8

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10

1. Justin, Joyce, Carlos from PA 2. Kitty & Bill from Maine 3. Kris, Jane, Katie from WI 4. Hunter, Lauren from MN 5. Erin, Meredith, Jenna, back row – Julia, Emily, Emma, Alexis 6. Carrie, Brandon, Jenny, Reese, Nash, Liam from IN 7. Heather, Costa, Curtis, Abby, Lucy, Chuck, Toni, Gus from MN 8. Hayden age 3, Leo age 1 1/2 from MA. 9. Jackie, Carly from IN 10. Morgan, Caroline from NC, George, Levi from Daytona

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www.siestasand.net

Historic Crescent Club Gets New Look The historic Crescent Club located at 6519 Midnight Pass Road on Siesta Key is getting a new look. Construction on a new awning started during the Covid-19 pandemic and is nearly complete. The work is being done by United States Awning. Here is a photo essay of the project.

The drive-up window at The Crescent Club remains open and continues to serve customers during construction.

MarinerWord Search Answers on page 38 MarinerWord Search

Siesta Key Notes ©2020 JanBaumgartner.com

Royal Tern (Thalasseus maximus) A distinctive long, slender orange bill makes the royal tern one of the more colorful characters you will encounter at Siesta Key’s three public beaches. Colonies of these social coastal dwellers call Crescent Beach home with its protected shoreline and warm, salt waters fed by the Gulf of Mexico. During the winter months, the royal tern dons a jet-black cap of spiky feathers

that transforms it briefly into the ‘ rock star’ of the beach before its plumage undergoes molting in the Spring.

Now available in two locations: BLVD Beachwear 5239 Ocean Blvd 941-349-2583 Shelly’s Gift and Christmas Boutique 4420 S. Tamiami Trail 941-260-8905

WORD LIST WORD LIST Beaches Beaches Blue Whales Blue Whales Celebration Change Celebration Clean-up Change Climate Clean-up Community Climate Conservation Community Dolphins Conservation Educate Dolphins Future Global Educate Healthy Future High Seas Global Impact Healthy Life High Seas Oxygen Impact Ocean Life Planet Protect Oxygen Resources Ocean Seas Planet Sharks Protect Turtles Resources Wildlife Seas Youth

World Ocean’s Day 2017 World Ocean’s Day 2017

Sharks Answers on Page 27 Turtles Wildlife Youth Answers on Page 27

Blooming This Month: Milkweed Do you want to attract Butterflies , Bees & Birds?

Then Milkweed ‘Asclepias’ is the plant for you to have in your gardens. Species needs vary, choose based on conditions. A drought resistant plant by the way.

It is an enticement for other pollinators as well.

Milkweed is both a food source and a host plant on which the monarch lays its eggs, depositing them on the underside of the leaves. The larvae then feed on the leaves after hatching, but cause no permanent damage to the plant. In turn, the toxic chemicals contained in the sap of milkweed plants make both the caterpillars and adult butterflies unappetizing to predators.

Most Milkweed flowers are red, orange, or yellow.

They self-seed themselves each year. The sap may irritate your skin , so wear gloves when planting. The have a height of 2’ -5’ tall. And are the main food source for Monarch butterflies.

Currently in bloom in the Butterfly Garden at Sarasota Garden Club, 1131 Blvd of the Arts Kay Weber, Botanical Gardens Chair, Sarasota Garden Club.

Submitted by CJ Danna

www.TheMariner.com

www.TheMariner.com

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MAY 2020

Arts on the Horizon It’s Springtime

Doors

Don’t feel blue, celebrate

When some doors close, others may open. That is the case here in Sarasota. Yes, our theatre companies, opera, ballet, orchestra, dance companies, circuses, choral groups, museums, etc., have shut their doors for the rest of the season. This was not just cutting off the last performance of a series of six, but, in some cases, the entire run. All the work and nothing to be shown.

Many productions were planned, diag ra med, r ig ht s acqu i red, rehearsed, adverts purchased, halls rented and ready - and all for naught... or so it seems. Hopefully, Tourist Board dollars and the dollars from the pockets of many of our local residents will flow to these groups so they can get off the floor and onto their feet. They need our support.

Not just so they can entertain us later, but so they can be made somewhat whole. They should be reimbursed for all of their efforts, even though we did not, ourselves, receive any immediate pleasure from what they’d done or attempted to do.When next season arrives, we hope that they will have not just our financial backing so that they may be able to continue, but will know they have our blessings, in whatever forms they make take, so that they may wish to continue.

OK, doors have been closed, but what ones have been opened?

Over the years, while our local arts organizations have been providing us with our lifeline to a richer life, other communities have been doing the same. And some have been saving those offerings to offer to us in our fallow times.

Do you like Mahler? One of the most sublime Mahleresque experiences is to go to Classica.stingray.com/en/ us. If you click on “TV Schedule”, you will find what they present every hour of every day. Take them up on a free trial and watch what is available.

In their archives, you will find A Tribute to Mahler with the Berliner Philharmoniker conducted by Claudio Abado in 2011 (he passed in 2014).

A most sublime experience awaits watching and listening to the Adagio from Mahler’s Symphony No. 10.

Also, on the program are six poems set to music and sung by Jonas Kaufmann and Anna Sofie von Otter.

The last song, Abschied (Farewell), is exquisite. And, wonder of wonders, there are hundreds of other concerts available on this streaming service.

It’s funny how some holidays float around like boats at high tide. For example, Easter is the first Sunday after the first full moon after the vernal equinox. Try explaining that to a four-year-old. One very religious holiday with a fixed date that is celebrated by 21-year-olds and above all over the world is Cinco de Mayo.

One question many are asking is how well will Corona beer do this year?

Hard to clink bottles from 6 feet away.

Another floating date that seems to be everyone’s favorite is Mother’s Day. The second Sunday in May falls on the 10th this year, so it’s time to start remembering your mom. Also, if you have a female partner and she has had a child, remember her. If you are a single mother, celebrate yourself - you have a hard job. Hopefully, there’s time to get a present, a card, and reserve a time slot to pick up her favorite carryout food. Whether you consume it at her place or yours, the big benefit is that there will be no pots or pans to wash. Unfortunately, while saving on water, you’re overburdening the local landfill.

Armed Forces Day floats in on the third Saturday of the month and has been floating in this manner for 70 years. In 1950, the separate celebrations for each of the armed services were consolidated to this day.

There have been many heroes since the days of the revolutionary army, but we are not celebrating them. The ones we are saluting may not even be “heroes” in the accepted sense of the word, but we are celebrating their commitment to service, and without them we would be in deep, deep trouble. They are the living, still serving, men and women of today’s armed forces. While some are true heroes, our armed forces would not properly function in protecting us without all of them. They serve in Iraq, Syria, Afghanistan, and in many other places so we don’t have such conflicts. Now, they serve on the home front by providing logistical support against the new scourge, COVID-19. We give thanks.

Yet another floater, Memorial Day, is on May’s last Monday. The celebration on the 16th is for the living, and this one is for those who gave it all - those who died serving our country. You don’t have to say much, but do think, remember, and give thanks to all.

Home for the best Margaritas

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

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

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

Live Music Every Day and Night

Daily Drink Specials Our

DAILY SPECIALS $8.99 Lunch with soft drink Tuesday-Friday 12-3 PM

DRINK SPECIALS REGULAR FLAVOR MARGARITAS Frozen Or On The Rocks 32 oz - $13.99 24 oz. - $8.99 16 oz. - $6.99

25

By Rodger Skidmore

Yes, Spring started a couple of weeks ago and summer is closing in. The temperature is not down in the 50’s any longer, and it doesn’t rain. Ponds that will be fed by the runoff from summer rains are still slowly decreasing in square footage. The number of turtles per pond may be staying the same, but their social distancing space allotment is shrinking - good thing that turtles are not susceptible to COVID-19.

If you’ve washed you r ca r recently, you must be pleased that it does not turn yellow as it did in the last two months. Although Mother Nature is not washing your car, she is letting up on the pollen count. Yes, Spring and early Summer are blissful, so we should take advantage of this time of year while it lasts.

One thing many of us can do is take a walk around the outside of our home. Some flowers are in bloom, and the sky is mostly blue.

If not blue, then blue with puffy white clouds, which is even better.

How well we can walk around is, of course, subject to the kind of home we have and when it was built. Older homes are best, as they sit in the center of a lot and there is plenty of walk-around space.

The “McMansions” built during the run-up to the housing crisis are a bit more problematic, as they tend to be constructed from lot-line to lot-line. It makes it hard to tip-toe through the tulips when there is no room to plant tulips!

The biggest problem of all is for those lucky ones in high-rise condominiums with a view of Sarasota Bay. While views of the sailboats are great from the 10th 18th floors, it does get a bit crowded at ground level when everyone wants to go outside for a walk at the same time. And how many people do you want in the elevator with you as you descend/ascend to/ from your walk? Surely each condo board can set up a schedule and spacing plan so that each unit can have their time in the sun without being overly crowded. Of interest to all will be how the owners of units in Condo A interact with unit owners from Condo B when their two groups overlap. Surely, there will be many interesting stories on our individual smart phone media feeds.

941-217-4536 941-960-2698

27th State Media LLC

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Check Facebook, Instagram for updates, specials, and changes to hours of operation. $60 - Feeds up to 5

OfKors Bakery, 1359 Main Street, 941-330-2220 Open: 7:30am - 7pm

26

Siesta Sand

MAY 2020

941.312.0665

Off Key! By Bob Frederickson BUC’ing a Trend?

While most NFL teams are worried about whether there will be any fans returning to their stadiums this fall with the fallout from the Coronavirus epidemic, the Tampa Bay Buccaneers are banking on a big increase in spectators. They are so confident, they are reportedly considering raising the price for new season ticket sales. The reason for the team’s confidence? One name: Tom Brady. Since the six-time Super Bowl-winning QB announced his signing with Tampa Bay, it’s been like Ugly Betty getting asked to the senior prom by the most popular star athlete in the class around team headquarters at One Buc Place in Tampa.

So why did Brady decide on Tampa? According to sports analyst Colin Cowherd, it wasn’t money or even the prospect of pairing up with the team’s standout wide receivers, Mike Evans and Chris Godwin.

Rather, it came down to a matter of respect.

Or as Aretha put it...

R-E-S-P-E-C-T!

www.siestasand.net

From Filling the Stands to Taking a Stand

According to Cowherd, the decision was likely rooted in an interview conducted by ESPN, the Magazine, with Patriots’ front office personnel and at least one of the team’s ‘up the food chain’ coaches.

That piece plainly expressed the sentiment that the Patriots thought they could win super bowls with multiple quarterbacks.

Brady had won six championships with the team. He had taken pay cuts to help sign other players. Then, he hears that kind of gratitude from the organization? As Cowherd put it, the bottom line is that, just like the rest of us, Tommy just wants to be appreciated.

Making a Name for Itself...

The Florida Department of Economic Opportunity (FDEO) is the state agency responsible for processing unemployment claims from citizens who have lost their jobs. But to an increasing number of Floridians sucker-punched by the hit to the economy caused by the Coronavirus pandemic, the state agency has become The

HOTTEST BAR IN GULF GATE...

MLB/College Packages FULL BAR

6500 Gateway Ave • 941.554.8905

Department of Utter and Complete Futility. Many have reported spending hours on hold while trying to apply for state benefits that rank among the lowest in the nation (topping out at $287 weekly) and more importantly, staking out a place in line for the greater benefits of $600 per week from the Federal government authorized by the Paycheck Protection Act passed

by Congress and signed into law by President Trump recently.

We should have seen this coming with the snafus surrounding last year’s ‘upgrade’ of the statewide SunPass toll collection system i mplemented by t he Flor ida Department of Transportation. The changeover from the old system to the new and improved model was delayed for months, leaving gaps in user billing statements, resulting in larger than usual balances due when the system finally went live again, and leaving workers seeking reimbursements from their employers without documentation for tolls paid while on the job.

For some reason, when it comes to government implementing technology, it’s like grandma trying to call you on the new smart phone you bought her.

So, it came as no surprise when the folks in charge at FDEO came up with a high-tech work-around to the meltdown of their unfortunately named “Connect” claims processing network (a name fully disconnected from the reality of its performance).

Instead of using the vaunted new mega-million-dollar online system, they now suggest simply printing out an application on paper and sending it in by mail.

Yup, that’s right...here in Florida, Snail Mail is the next big thing.

Just for laughs A lawyer was reading out the will of a wealthy man to his family and everyone mentioned in the document.

“To my loving wife Mary, my rock and without whom my life would have been very different, I leave the mansion in Bel-Air and $20 million,” the lawyer read out loud.

He paused momentarily for his audience to digest this information and then he continued reading.

“To my darling daughter Louisa who

More Good News from Florida Government…

In other Florida news, state officials have decided that the WWE should be deemed an ‘Essential Business.’ That’s right. ‘Professional’ wrestling, known for its campy, faux drama is “essential”, but developing a workable system for paying unemployed workers the benefits they’re entitled to? Not so much…

“For What, A Little Bit of Money?”

Today, the Chinese Coronavirus has forced the citizens of this nation to take refuge in their homes.

But early on in the last decade, another Chinese export was forcing many Americans out of theirs.

That export? Defective Chinese drywall. Remember that debacle?

It hit nationwide, but local buyers of homes built by mega-builder U.S. Homes were especially hard hit. Many buyers complained of headaches and other more severe illnesses related to a pungent odor traced to gases given off by the faulty Chinese wallboard, which had by then replaced long-standing American-made gypsum wall board products. The American products had been used without incident for generations, since being introduced at the start of the postWorld-War-II building boom fueled

by GIs returning from Europe.

Later, there were stories of pets getting sick after folks brought home Chinese-made dog treats, chew toys, and bags of pet food.

Did we learn anything?

Apparently not.

It has become clear over the past few weeks that we’ve become far supported me so much when my health began to fail and never once complained, I leave my business, my yacht and $1 million,” said the lawyer.

Again, he paused momentarily to allow this information to sink in.

T h e l aw ye r t h e n cont i nue d reading the final section of the will, “And to my brother Neville who argued with me constantly, hated my guts and thought I would never mention him in my will. Well, you were wrong. Hi Neville!”

A student comes to a young

too reliant on China for essential supplies, especially medicines and medical devices.

Why? To save a little money, and for many in business and government to make fortunes. But have we traded our birthright of freedom and independence in a Faustian bargain?

It reminds me of the ending of the Coen Brothers movie, Fargo.

The homespun, rural North Dakota Sheriff, Marge Gunderson, just managed to capture one of the two suspects she had been tracking down in a murder/kidnapping scheme. She happened on one of the perps disposing of the body of the other by feeding his corpse into a wood chipper outside an isolated, rural cabin where the two had been holed up. It seemed the guy going into the chipper had set his partnerin-crime off by talking too much while the former was trying to relax and watch some TV. Anyway, a very pregnant Marge somehow manages to arrest and cuff the surviving perp and then get him into her cruiser. As she’s driving him to the lockup in Fargo, in the middle of a sub-zero, midwinter whiteout, she looks in her rearview mirror and says to the guy: “That must have been your accomplice in the woodchipper.

And those people in Brainard? And for what? A little bit of money?

There’s more to life than a little money, ya know.

Don’t ya know that?

And here ya are. And it’s a beautiful day.

Well, I just don’t understand it.”

(Me either). professor’s office. She glances down the hall, closes his door, kneels pleadingly.

“I would do anything to pass this exam.”

She leans closer to him, flips back her hair, gazes meaningfully into his eyes.

“I mean..” she whispers, “..I would do ANYTHING!!”

He returns her gaze. “Anything??”

“Yes,.. Anything!” She says.

His voice turns to a whisper.

“Would you ... study??”

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941.312.0665

MAY 2020

27th State Media LLC

27

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

Siesta Nails & Spa, located in the Sarasota Pavilion (6517 S. Tamiami Trail), a few doors down from Hooters Restaurant, recently changed hands and remodeled their shop. Enjoy a complimentary glass of wine with their $35 and up Pedi. Call them at 941-556-9048 to set up an appointment.

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 g r o om i ng w it h a p r e c i s e attention to personal detail. Their commitment to excellence has provided them with many loyal customers. They welcome the opportunity to earn your trust.

Hours: Tues. – Fri. 8:30am – 6pm, Sat., 8:30am – 3pm. Closed on Sundays and Mondays.

Sarasota Brewing Co. (G-4) Sarasota’s first micro brew pub always has something new to offer. From over 20 seasonal beers that rotate throughout the year,

the Brewing Company always has at least five unique brews online as well as several favorites from around the world. Established in 1989, their menu has been a winner in the Reader’s Choice Awards of the Sarasota Herald Tribune featuring their mouth-watering burgers, Chicago style pizzas, and Chicago beef sandwiches. With dozens of televisions, it’s a great place to catch a game with friends and family.

Gulf Gate Barber Shop (G11): has been an institution in the community for years, owned

by Kyle Flan ner y. The superclean barbershop’s clientele is comprised of primarily men, but the shop services children as well.

Scott Reich, formerly of the Siesta Key Vi llage Ba rber Shop has relocated to this location.

At t h e o r i g i n a l Wo r d o f M o u t h R e s t a u r a n t (G - 3 1), every seemingly insignificant detail receives special attention from the warm, inviting decor to each specially crafted variety of freshly baked muffins to the s ig n at u r e me nu it e m s. T h i s small diner is where the locals come to eat breakfast and lunch.

Ta ke a look at t hei r menu at or ig i n a lwordof mout h.com.

Hours: Mon-Sun.: 8 a.m. – 2 p.m.

1

ex per ience fa m i l ia r to t hose who understand the importance of family and dedication. Their re cipes a nd te ch n iques h ave been perfected through three long generations based on the t rad it ion a l si mpl ic it y of t he methods used by their Italian ancestors. Dine inside, outside, pick up, or DELIVERY anywhere on Siesta Key, or in Sarasota until 3:30 a.m. 6574 Superior Ave., 941924-5800.

Pride of the South (S-34) Pride of the South has been awarded Top Barbeque in Sarasota for 2016 by Trip Advisor and Yelp.

It has been awarded for the best Southern Hospitality. Pride of the South has a brisket BLT, hands down, one of the best sandwiches you ever tasted. The smoked chicken wings are unbelievable.

Backed up with the pulled pork sandwiches, the smoked bologna, the smoked Turkey, the collard greens, fried corn on the cob, fried okra, fried green tomatoes and one of the best mac n cheese you ever tasted. We do catering with no limit to size. Call (941)926-0099.

See you soon.

Gu l f Gate Food + Beer (S-51): Sarasota’s late-night hot spot for the service industry, night owls, and midnight snackers.

P iccolo It a l i a n Ma rke t & Deli (G-47) carries a full line of imported cheeses, fresh baked bread daily, homemade sausages, fresh mozzarella, and numerous ha rd to get item s. T hey now carry Khorasan Wheat which is an ancient and organic grain.

Their Deli is complete with huge hot and cold sandwiches, salads, fresh homemade lasag na and baked ziti.

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

To n y ’s C h i c a g o B e e f 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.

S o l ó r z a n o ’s L a t e N i g h t P i z z e r i a (S - 3 2): At eve r y S o l ó r z a n o ’s , t h e y o f f e r a n

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GULF GATE Siesta Nails & Spa

Hooters

Sun Trust

G-4

Stein Mart

Michaels

Books-AMillion

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© Island Visitor Publishing, LLC 2018

Ba Am nk o eri f ca

Panera Bread

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Bed Bath & Beyond

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

Ross

Dress for Less

Iberia Bank

Five Below 1

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G24

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Gulf Gulf Gate Gate Drive 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

Lo Ho ng rn

Marshall’s

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SIESTA NAILS & SPA

SRQ

Roberts Realty

John Garner

THE SHOP SRQ 6625 Gateway Ave.

15 Years + Experience

www.TheShopSrq.com

941.626.4894 / 941.536.1656 • No Appointment Needed •

TONSORIAL ARTISTRY

BY ERICK & DAWN

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

S-34

Broker Associate

Diane Shane Broker Associate

941-924-2330

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

We are with you every step of the way!

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

G-2

“We Straight Razor Shave”

Mon-Fri: 9am - 7pm Sat: 9am - 6pm 6517 S. Tamiami Trail Sarasota, FL 34231 At Sarasota Pavilion Center, Publix Supermarket, next to Hooters.

Enjoy a ComplimEntary Glass of WinE With a $35 and up pEdi Group spECial: ChampaGnE party for Group of 7-10

7

Traditional, Old School Barber Shop

(941) 556 9048

S-16

Superior Avenue

C

Beall’s Outlet

G50 G49 G48 G47 G46 G45 G44 G43 G42 G41 G40 G39 G38 G37 G36 G35 G34 G33 G32 G31 G30 G29 G28 G27 G26 G25

Gateway Avenue

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

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

Over 150 businesses make up this district.

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Publix

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

M7

M6

M5 M4 M3 M2 M1

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It’s not your typical sports bar offering unique menu selections for carnivores and vegetarians.

Be sure to check out their menu online at: eatfooddrinkbeer.com.

Hours: 11 a.m. – 1 a.m. (Sun. Thurs.) open until 2 a.m. (Fri & Sat.).

ROBERTS REALTY, Inc. (M5) John Garner, Broker Assoc. & Diane Shane, Broker Assoc. have a combined 40 years’ experience in Sarasota of making dreams come true for our clients. FOR BUYERS, we have had g reat success in finding the right property for our clients because we listen closely to their wants and needs and matching that as close as possible. FOR SELLERS, over the years we have successfully listed and sold many, many properties t h roughout Sa rasota Cou nt y.

OUR PHILOSOPHY is to have fun, enjoy the experience, achieve great results, make friends and receive referrals. We’re with you every step of the way! Call 941924-2330 or drop by our office.

Only Eyes, Opt ical (S -24) brings a new, exotic, eclectic, eccentric, unique collection of vintage, hipster, contemporary eyeglasses a nd su nglasses to the community. Licensed and experienced optician available to fill your prescriptions.

6 7 Only Eyes Optical has a large assortment of f re e f ra mes w it h t he E purchase of new lenses.

Call 941-444-7984 to set Mall up an appointment with Mall Drive Drive S30 S59 G23 their licensed optician.

S29 S58 G22 S57 S28 Mellow Mushroom G21 S56 S27 G20 serves a one of a kind S55 S26 G19 S54 S25 D pizza pie. The flavors G18 S53 S24 G17 S52 S23 and ingredients are just S51 G16 S22 as unique and special S50 S21 G15 S49 S20 G14 a s t h e r e s t a u r a n t ’s S48 S19 G13 S47 S18 desig n. Try a Mellow G12 S46 S17 G11 C Mush room stoneS45 S16 G10 S44 S15 baked pizza, munchies, G9 S43 S14 G8 S42 S13 calzone, salad, hoagie, S41 G7 S12 S40 or even a burger. Pick G6 S11 S39 G5 S10 from our selection of S38 S9 G4 S37 S8 24 draft beers or tasty, G3 S36 B S7 G2 S35 handcrafted cocktails.

S6 S34 S5 G1 And, many of our pizzas S4 S33 S3 S32 can be made gluten-free S2 S31 S1 or vegan. Located at 6727 Gulf Gulf Gate Gate Drive Drive S. Tamiami Trail. 941A 388-7504.

Catering Available

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

941.926.0099

COUPON

FREE SIDE With the purchase of ANY entreé

28

Siesta Sand

MAY 2020

Florida Fish of Siesta Key

Red Snapper

Yellowtail

Mangrove Snapper

Lane Snapper

Black Mullet Snook

Red Drum “Redfish”

Tarpon

Baracuda

Florida Pompano Jack Crevalle

Spotted Sea Trout

Cobia

Black Drum

Blue Marlin

Black Grouper

Sheesphead

941.312.0665

Water World Fishing Report

Fishing Report

Capt. Rick Grassett, Sarasota CB’s Saltwater Outfitters (941) 923-7799 (office)

Spanish Mackerel are getting th ick along the area beaches and lots of fun to catch with the occasional shark crashing the

A ng lers f i sh i ng w it h me, out of CB’s Saltwater Florida Outfitters on Siesta Key, had Puffer good action with reds, snook and trout in shallow water in Sarasota Bay and Gasparilla Sailfish Sound on CAL jigs with jerk worms, shad and grub tails Spanish and with snook on flies in Mackerel the ICW at night recently.

Fly and spin fishing anglers Dohlpin also had some action on deep “Mahi-Mahi” grass flats of Sarasota Bay with trout and more. Anglers Jerry Tipper, from Port Charlotte, with a nice practiced social distancing snook caught and released on a Grassett Snook on the boat and we were Minnow fly. miles from another boat or person during the course of Scoolmaster my trips.

Bill Morrison, from Anna Ma r ia, f i shed Sa ra sot a Bay with me recently and had some action catching and releasing trout on an Scamp Ultra Hair Clouser fly. Port Charlotte winter residents G e r r y Tipp e r a nd Te d Hesson fished the ICW at night with me and had some action catching and releasing Bill Morrison, from Anna Maria, caught and released this trout on an Ultra Hair Clouser fly. snook on my Grassett Snook Minnow fly. Mike Perez and Denton Kent, from Sarasota, also got in on the night snook action on another trip recently.

Martin Marlowe, from NY and Bruce Marlowe, from SC, fly fished the ICW at night with me and had good action catching and releasing snook and a couple of blues on my Grassett Snook Minnow fly. Mike Dave Reinhart, from MA, had good action catching and releasing numerous reds and snook on CAL jigs Perez, from Sarasota, and Gulf with grub tails.

Louis and Mikalah Smith, Flounder from IN, caught and released trout, Spanish mackerel and bluefish in Sarasota Bay on Clouser flies and CAL jigs with a variety of tails recently.

Keith McClintock, from Lake Forest, IL, fished a couple of days with me and had good action catching AmberJack and releasing several reds, snook and trout on CAL Mike Perez, from Sarasota, with a nice trout caught and released on a CAL jig with a grub. jigs with jerk worms, shad and grub tails in Gasparilla Sound. The best action was with reds in skinny water in Sarasota Bay. Dave Reinhart, from MA, fished a couple of days in Sarasota with me and had great action catching and releasing numerous reds to 26”, several snook to 30” and trout to 20” on CAL jigs with grubs.

Fishing shallow flats for catch and release reds and snook is a good option now. Fishing deep grass flats of Sarasota Bay is a good choice for action with a variety of species including trout, pompano, Catfish blues and Spanish mackerel. Check the coastal gulf for tripletail, Spanish mackerel or false albacore when conditions are good. Fishing dock lights in the ICW at night is usually a good option for snook King and more. Our natural resources Mackerel are under constant pressure from red tides fueled by industrial, agricultural and residential runoff, freezes, increasing fishing pressure and habitat loss and degradation, please limit your kill, don’t kill your limit!

Just for laughs What do you call a fish without eyes?

Fsh

www.siestasand.net

Capt. Jeffri Durrance CB’s Outfitters party. On light tackle, it makes for exciting fishing.

King mackerel are also beginning to show up inshore

Pictured is Solomon Holton with a nice Spanish mackerel.

as well. Both mackerels as well as the sharks readily eat shrimp, threadfins, pilchards and pinfish which can be caught with sabiki rigs in the same areas you find the mackerel.

We are finding black seabass on hard bottom areas and catching

them on live shrimp. Remember, the best time to go fishing is when you can and be sure to save some for seed!

Capt. Kelly Stilwell CB’s Outfitters

The fishing in Sarasota Bay has been consistently good. Last week, the Faveta family had a good trip. They caught lots of nice spotted seatrout, shark , spanish mackerel, and ladyfish . all were caught on jigs and live shrimp.

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941.312.0665

Captain Jim Klopfer’s Fishing Forecast May 2020 Adventure Charters 941-371-1390 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 g ia nt ta r pon wi ll i nvade t he inshore Gulf of Mexico, a sure sign that summer is here!

Speckled trout fishing should be good in May, especially with the catch and release regulations.

the beaches and will be scattered out all over. Mangrove points and bars near the passes should hold snook, as will structure in both Big Pass and New Pass. Outgoing tides are preferred, but as long as the water is moving, fish can be caught. Plugs are great baits that cover a lot of water quickly and are great fun to fish. Jigs and other soft plastics work well, too.

Anglers who are proficient with a cast net will load up the well with pilchards and catch a lot of fish.

Giant tarpon arrives off of Siesta Key in May

The flats near Big Pass should b e produc t ive. C a st i ng Ba s s Assassin 4” Sea Shad baits on ¼ ounce jig heads in front of a d r i f t i ng boat w i l l produce speckled trout and some ladyfish.

A live sh r i mp u nder 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

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 t he most excit i ng a ngl i ng challenges found anywhere, light tackle casting to giant tarpon!

This is truly world class big game fishing. Tarpon that migrate up our coasts are large fish that average 80 pounds, but reach over 200 pounds. 25-30 lb. spinning tackle and 12 weight fly rods are used most often. A live crab is the preferred bait, but live pinfish and other bait fish work well, too.

These baits are fairly light and spinning tackle works best to cast and present baits.

MAY 2020

27th State Media LLC

Notes from the Island Fishmonger The Island Fishmonger says “The new normal is the old normal…just different!”

portion of our restaurant. The retail fish market is OPEN and the restaurant is highlighting a full menu for curbside pick-up until further notice.

I a lso wa nt to send my heartfelt gratitude to all of the first responders and all of those on the front lines from our law enforcement to doctors and nurses, grocery store workers, cleaning people and all of the essential workers who have been helping us get through this and a thanks to those who are supporting them and their families.

Now onto the fish! This summer will bring us great bounties from the sea. Even though Stone Crab season ends May 15th, there will be plenty of delicious treats to follow. When one crab trap door

I hope this article finds you healthy and safe. I want to start by saying thank you all for your support during these crazy times.

Because of you, many people are still employed, struggling restaurants are able to stay afloat (although not as profitable) and on behalf of all of us restauranteurs on Siesta Key and in Sarasota, we thank you from the bottom of our hearts. I also want to send a special thank you to all of the media sites who are promoting all of us and to Sarah Lansky who started the Facebook group “Curbside Suncoast Food & Drink To Go”.

Like many people in this country, I have been staying home and respecting the social distancing guidelines, but I am very antsy to get back to work. I understand this call to reopen has been made by the Governor with restrictions, but I hope we continue to listen to the doctors and scientists who will guide us into a safe and healthy new normal. Our beaches reopened Monday, May 4th so please enjoy responsibly.

Our hope is restaurants and small businesses will be reopened at 100% capacity on or before June 1st. Many of us are ahead of the game and already done or are doing a thorough deep cleaning of our restaurants and shops. In anticipation of everyone reopening, we are hoping that the new normal is similar to the old normal although I think we all know the old normal will require some tweaks and changes such as less seating and more spacing. This virus cannot be spread through food. So, how we eat and enjoy each other’s company will not be drastically changed. I’ll be ok with this new normal and as my mother always says...safety first.

In the meantime, while we wait to get back to our new normal, please continue to support the local restaurants. Many restaurants will reopen at 25% capacity but at Big Water Fish Market, we will continue operating as is for the moment which consists of curbside take out and retail market. We don’t believe in a 25% reopening, so when we can go 100%, that’s when we will open the dining-in

will be behind that crab trap door.

In addition, Grouper and Snapper prices should be dropping in midMay. Mahi prices will be going up, but Amberjack is always a great less expensive alternative. Cobia is in season and should be plentiful this time of year as well. Hogfish will still be available during the summer months.

As far as imports go, the summer months bring us plenty of seafood from Alaska. In addition to the crab, we will also be seeing plenty of King Salmon and Halibut. Big Water Fish Market will continue to carry our specialty Irish Salmon all summer long. Also, Swordfish, Cod, Haddock, Sea Scallops, Clams, Oysters and Maine Lobster will be plentiful and will be shipped to us overnight from the Boston area.

Island Fishmonger, Scott Dolan outside his Big Water Fish Market Retail Store & Restaurant.

closes, another one always opens, and Alaskan King and Snow Crab

Live Well…Eat Fish!

Scott Dolan

MAY 2020 TIDE CHART Florida, St. Petersburg, Sarasota, Sarasota Bay

May 2020

N 27° 20' / W 82° 33'

CB’s Outfitters Goes Curbside

Caption: CB’s serves its first “curbside” bait customer.

Keep Fishing and Stay Healthy!

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Date

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Mo

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High Tide 1.8

3:02a

Low Tide -0.2

2:18p

Low Tide 1.4

6:51a

8:05p

2:00p

2:56a

1.6

9:00p

1.8

4:01a

-0.1

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1.1

6:50a

8:05p

3:05p

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1.6

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0.0

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0.7

6:49a

8:06p

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1.7

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1.7

5:35a

0.2

6:03p

0.4

6:48a

8:07p

5:16p

5:00a

Tu

11:37a

1.9

6:12a

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0.1

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8:07p

6:23p

5:39a

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2.1

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0.6

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-0.2

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Tu

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4:16p

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8:39a

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5:37p

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12:25p

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6:35a

8:21p

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1:39a

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Sa

9:00a

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2:22a

0.0

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8:21p

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2:20a

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Su

9:25a

1.6

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1.6

3:14a

0.2

3:51p

0.8

6:35a

8:22p

3:02p

2:58a

©2020 FreeTideTables.com - For comparison only - Times are local - Tides in feet from MLLW

Phase

Full

9:31a 10:28a

3rd

New

1st

30

Siesta Sand

MAY 2020

941.312.0665

Casey Key Shoreline

www.siestasand.net

Continued from page 3

ACCOMMODATIONS PAGE 47 HOMES FOR SALE PAGE 45 SIESTA KEY MARKET STATS PAGE 40

The Highs and Lows of Properties Sold on Siesta Key

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

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

HIGHEST PRICED SINGLE FAMILY PROPERTY: 839 Siesta Key Circle, Sarasota, $2,440,000 Beautiful bay front home situated on little under ½ acre lot, this custom built 5,233 sq/ft residence has 4 bedrooms and 4 baths with high ceilings and includes an office which can easily be turned into a 5th bedroom. The home was structurally remodeled in 2014.

LOWEST PRICED SINGLE FAMILY PROPERTY: 5220 Winding Way, Sarasota, FL $340,000 This quintessential 1957 Mid-Century Modern Home is offered by the original owner with most of its uniquely original details still intact at an extraordinarily price. This property is situated on a quaint designated Canopy Road, and is “old Florida” at its finest. Just adjacent to Glebe Park in the Twin Oak Pond

subdivision, this spacious home features desirable, lower Block Construction, Vaulted Ceilings, and Terrazzo Floors!

A well-designed combination of jalousie and clerestory windows allows for a cross breeze, while also providing abundant natural light. Relax in the two large living spaces created by combining the initial floor plan with a generously sized addition, or enjoy the formal dining room and separate breakfast nook. There is plenty of room for family

Nestled on the bay with sweeping views of Skiers Island and the north bridge, this property is ideal for the avid boater or family who enjoys the waterfront with a view that stretches for miles across open water. The setting is extraordinary: an enchanting saltwater pool and spa invite you outdoors. The lush landscaped courtyard and blend of tropical trees and plants provide a gentle effervescence of paradise. The and friends with 3 bedrooms and 2 full bathrooms, in addition to the master suite. Walking out your front door, you will immediately be captivated by the lush, tropical landscape featuring mature foliage, a small park, and a lovely view of the pond. You may never want to leave, but remember, you are literally less than a mile from the World Famous Siesta Key Beach and Siesta Village.

Courtesy of Keller Williams on the Water

Highest Priced Condo: 5880 Midnight Pass Road, #507, Sarasota, $1,100,000 Discover beachside paradise at Casarina where this rarely available three-bedroom, fully-renovated residence offers a lifestyle dedicated to relaxed island living. The spacious floor plan boasts over 2,000 sq. ft. just steps from the beach and is enhanced by the coastal-inspired furnishings and decor. The kitchen is stunning and

Lowest Priced Condo: 109 Pass Key Road, Sarasota, #109, Sarasota, $291,365 Rarely available 2 story, 2 bedroom 1.5 bathroom home is now available here in the beautiful Sandy Cove on Siesta Key. Sitting right on

the Gulf of Mexico, this home has access to a private beach and is less than half a mile from Siesta Key Village. With plenty of shopping, food and entertainment, you will fall in love with the island life, as so many have before. The home

PLEASE CALL TO LEARN HOW TO ACCOMPLISH CONTACTLESS SHOWINGS AND CLOSINGS. STAY SAFE AND HEALTHY!

SETH: 941. 342. SOLD (7653) AL: 941. 479. 1175 Al re Nemo

fresh with generous cabinet space accented by gorgeous granite counters and a sparkling backsplash. Retreat to the luxurious master suite with views towards the water and a decadent master bath complete with tub and walkin shower. Two additional bedrooms offer privacy for family and friends. Walk the world-famous Siesta Key beach, dip your toes in the crystal clear Casarina pool, or enjoy the colorful, relaxed feel of the nearby Village.

Courtesy of Michael Saunders

has an updated kitchen and bathrooms as well as a pass through loft on the second floor that could be used as a second bedroom.

Courtesy of Hook & Ladder Realty

A TALE OF TWO SALES Winding Way When our business expanded to Florida, the Westerberg Group helped us build a bridge from Chicago to Siesta Key. They expedited our purchase of Siesta's lowest-priced home, which is the perfect mid-century modern fixer-upper. The Twin Oak Pond neighbors will miss Nancy, but we feel like we will fit in with its laid-back lifestyle! - The Wolczynskis

Terry Lane Seth Westerb erg

pools waterfalls provide serene sounds throughout the home’s outdoor spaces, echoing indoors when windows are open. Exterior lighting illuminates the walkway in the court yard along with providing up lighting and ambience on the large trees, a fire pit with seating area, multiple benches, and paver path leads to a private pier and dock with 10K lift.

Courtesy of Like It Realty

Over 60 years ago, I built a home in Siesta Key's newest subdivision, Twin Oak Pond.

Recently, when I was ready to downsize to an off-the-Key locaEon, Al and Seth worked diligently to find me the perfect home in an ideal locaEon. I am pleased as punch! - Nancy W.

NMLS# 1783476

Marty Remillard NMLS#343653

No Lender Fees 941. 223.9416

Come take advantage of the low interest rates

www.siestasand.net

941.312.0665

d

MAY 2020

27th State Media LLC

d

l so

l so

5326 Calle Florida, Sarasota, Florida

Palm Island - Paradise on Siesta Key. This house is a 3 minute walk to Siesta Beach. Huge pool area with gazebo perfect for entertaining. Live in the existing 2,341 SF 3 BD/2 BA home or split into 2 lots. Modern vintage block home with out stone cloors in some rooms. You will love Palm Island, close to everything, yet secluded. Being sold turnkey furnished.

$739,000

5318 Calle, Sarasota, Florida

Palm Island - Paradise on Siesta Key. This Tropical Cottage is a 3 minute walk to world famous Siesta Beach.

Palm Island has its own beach access (Beach Access 10). This home is sited on 2 platted lots with lots of potential for development. Lovely setting on a tranquil Bayou with a dock for whittling the hours away in peaceful bliss. Live in the existing 2 bedroom / 2 bathroom home with open kitchen, dining room & two family rooms or split into 2 lots. This house is just a short walk to all the shopping, bistros & nightlife Siesta Key Village has to offer. You will love Palm Island, “An Island on Siesta Key”, close to everything , yet secluded.

$550,000

d

l so

1122 Horizon View Drive, Siesta Key, Florida

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

Walking distance to local dining and a mrina. Quality concrete block construction for peace of mind.

$899,000

165 Island Circle, Sarasota Florida

Wonderful Siesta Key Grand Canal home located on desirable Palm Palm Island - Paradise on Siesta Key. Excellent 2nd home or investment property. A cute beach house a short stroll to famous Siesta Beach. This house is located on a tropical lagoon with a fenced yard with room for a pool and a dock to relax with your fishingpole while enjoying the gulf breezes. This house has been updated with updated kitchen and baths is just a short walk to all the shopping, bistros & nightlife Siesta Key village has to offer. You will love Palm Island, “An Island on Siesta Key”, close to everything , yet secluded. Being sold turnkey furnished.

$575,000

31

32

Siesta Sand

MAY 2020

941.312.0665

Your April Horoscope • ARIES (March 21–April 19): And you thought April was a slow month! In May, three planets shift into retrograde motion, which means—sorry, A r i e s—yo u m a y experience delays getting something new off the ground.

The first to pivot is Saturn (on the 11th), then Venus (13th) and Jupiter (14th), which can leave you feeling like you’re spinning your wheels. While this will be frustrating, redirect your energy to projects you can make headway on now, even if nothing goes public.

• TAURUS (April 20–May 20): If you loved the nice slow speed that April operated at, you’re going to love May! Three planets shift into retrograde motion, meaning new ventures will likely be delayed even longer. Luckily, Taurus, you have the patience of a, well, bull, and are a pro at filling your life with pleasant homebased distraction. Notice what you’re feeling as these planets pivot: first

By Suzanne Gerber

Saturn (on the 11th), then your ruler, Venus (13th), and Jupiter (14th). You might have an aha moment that week!

• GEMINI (May 21–June 20): Chomping at the bit yet, Gemini?

Your restless sign is probably feeling very challenged by stay-at-home policies, but hopefully you’re getting out (safely) and, knowing you, tearing up the Zoom calls. Sorry to report, but things aren’t going to return to your normal warp speed in May. Three planets shift into retrograde motion—Saturn (on the 11th), Venus (13th) then Jupiter (14 h)—so get creative about staying entertained and inspired!

• CANCER (June 21-July 22): Just when you intuitively felt like things were going to start moving forward again, wham! Three planets shift into retrograde motion this month, meaning you may experience (more) delays getting something up and running. First to pivot is Saturn (on

the 11th), then Venus (13th), followed

by Jupiter (14th), which can give you a disappointing sense of déjà vu all over again. But with a full moon (your ruler) on the 7th in your romance sector, you’ve got something to look forward to!

• LEO (July 23–August 22): And you thought April was slow! Sorry, Leo, but May doesn’t look much livelier. Three planets turn retrograde this month, so you might as well prepare for more delays. (But hey, you can still dream!) The first to backshift is Saturn (on the 11th), then Venus (13th), followed by Jupiter (14th), which might feel like déjà vu all over again. But with your ruler, the Sun, in your career corner till the 20th, it’s worth doing all you can now, if only virtually.

• VIRGO (August 23-September 22): Ready, set, halt! Sorry, Virgo, but if you thought April was a slow month, May probably won’t offer much relief. On top of coronavirus, this month three planets turn retrograde, suggesting more delays with professional or creative ventures.

The first to backflip is Saturn (on the 11th), then Venus (13th), followed by Jupiter (14th), all in your work and innovation houses. But work on your own projects and be ready to pull the metaphoric trigger when things finally do open back up!

• LIBRA (September 23–October 22): May is one of your favorite months, Libra, but 2020 may prove the exception. (Sorry! Don’t shoot the messenger.) Following a slow April, May probably takes it down a notch as three planets turn retrograde in your sectors of work, service and adventure. The first to backflip is Saturn (on the 11th), then your ruler, Venus (13th), followed by Jupiter (14th). Good projects? Feng Shui your bedroom, make a work-related offer and research the trip you’ll take when restrictions lift.

• S COR PIO (O c t ob e r 2 3 – November 21): Might as well accept it, Scorpio: This probably isn’t the month singles will meet their match or engaged couples will pull off a delayed wedding. In the middle of May, three big-deal planets turn retrograde: first Saturn (on the 11th), then Venus (13th), followed by Jupiter (14th). Sorry, but this will probably result in more delays and mounting frustration. But be creative with what you can do. Contact your muse and make art, dance or start writing your memoir!

Sarasota real estate update ISLAND REEF

WILLOW CHASE

www.siestasand.net

• SAGITTARIUS (November 22–December 21): We know that as an adventurous and optimistic Sag, you were chomping at the bit all last month and have hope highs for May. Well, sorry to have to say it, but three big-deal planets turn retrograde in the same week, suggesting more of the same. The first to pivot is Saturn (on the 11th), then Venus (13th) followed by your ruler, (normally) jovial Jupiter (14th). It’s not the same, but hopefully you are finding all the inspiration you need…virtually.

• CAPRICORN (December 22– January 19): And you thought April was a slow month! Sorry to say this, Cap, but May probably won’t be much more high-energy. Still, there are plenty of ways to be productive, which no one knows better than a Capricorn. This month, three planets turn retrograde— is your ruler, Saturn (on the 11th), then Venus (13th) and Jupiter (14th)—which is an invitation to review your work of the previous several weeks and correct or refine anything that’s not letter-perfect!

• AQUARIUS (January 20– February 18): Just when you thought you’d seen the last of “all this” and were making plans for how to celebrate your “freedom” in May, three big-deal planets shift into retrograde, likely bringing more delays with romance, finances and a personal project. (Sorry!) The first to backflip is your co-ruler Saturn (on the 11th), then Venus (13th) followed

by Jupiter (14th). What can you review or revise now so it’ll be pictureperfect next month? Let yourself be motivated by that!

• PISCES (February 18–March 20): Even if you enjoyed April’s slow pace, you’re probably ready to be “sprung.” Sorry, Pisces, but with three planets turning retrograde, May probably won’t offer much relief.

The first to backflip is Saturn (on the 11th), then Venus (13th), followed by your co-ruler Jupiter (14th). Hopefully you’ve become a master of videochatting and are keeping up with your closest peeps. This is a good time to meditate and tackle that huge book you keep waiting for “enough time” for!

Suzanne Gerber, a locally based intuitive astrologer, shamanic/energy practitioner and spiritual life coach, is available for phone readings and healing sessions by appointment: https://www. starsandstoneshealing.com/booking.

TEAM DUNN RELATIONSHIPS

PREMIER DOWNTOWN LOCATION

UNE RELATION

for life

pour la vie.

11-Year Recipients of the

Maurice Menager 8779 Midnight Pass Road, #101H | Offered at $465,000 Two bedrooms | Two bathrooms | 1,303 SF

SIESTA KEY NEW CONSTRUCTION

1338 Calais Circle | Offered at $500,000 Four bedrooms | Three bathrooms | 2,576 SF

1723 Bay Street | Offered at $775,000 Four bedrooms | Three bathrooms | 2,237 SF

PALM BAY CLUB

REALTOR MOBILE

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941.238.8119

MauriceMenager@michaelsaunders.com

Lin Dunn

REALTOR®, SRES, LSS, LSE MOBILE

941.809.2154

LinDunn@michaelsaunders.com

TeamDunn.michaelsaunders.com

4849 Featherbed Lane | $1,219,500 | Sold Four bedrooms | Four bathrooms | 3,744 SF

5963 Midnight Pass Road, #342 Two bedrooms | Two bathrooms | 1,012 SF

5100 Ocean Blvd | Sarasota, FL 34242 | 941.349.3444

www.siestasand.net

941.312.0665

MAY 2020

Island Humor A man walks into a bar and says, “Give me a beer before the problems start!”

He drin ks the beer and then orders another saying, “Give me a beer before the problems start!”

The bartender looks confused.

This goes on for a while, and after the fifth beer the bartender is totally confused and asks the man “When are you going to pay for these beers?”

The ma n a n swers, “Now the problems start!”

My girlfriend isn’t talking to me because apparently, I ruined her birthday.

I’m not sure how I did that – I didn’t even k now it was her birthday…

A man walks into a bar and asks the bartender for two shots.

The bartender says, “we have a deal going on right now.”

The man replies, “What kind of deal?”

The bartender says to him, “If you can drink this half gallon of whiskey in five minutes and keep it down for another five minutes. Then, outback is an angry alligator that needs his tooth pulled. Finally, upstairs is the ugliest woman in the world and you have to have sex with her.

So, if you do those things in that exact order, you can eat and drink here for free, forever.”

T he ma n sa id, “T hat sou nds tough, but what the heck. I will give it a go.”

So, he chugs the whiskey in five minutes. Keeps it down for five minutes. Then, he goes out back.

About t went y minutes go by and the people in the bar hear screaming and just pure pain coming from outback.

The man walks back into the bar all tore up bleeding, stumbling, clothes torn, and drunk. He looks over at the bartender and says, “Now, where is that woman who needs her tooth pulled?”

A m a n i s r e ad i ng h i s newspaper and says to his wife, “Michelle, this article says women use about twice as many words as men do.”

The woman responds, “That’s b e cause we h ave to tel l you everything twice.”

In surgery for a heart attack, a middle-aged woman has a vision of God by her bedside. “Will I die?” she asks.

God says, “No. You have 30 more years to live.”

With 30 years to look forward to, she decides to make the best of it.

So, since she’s in the hospital, she gets breast implants, liposuction, a tummy tuck, hair transplants, and collagen injections in her lips.

She looks great!

T h e d a y s h e ’s d i s c h a r g e d , she exits the hospital with a swagger, crosses the street, and is immediately hit by an ambulance and killed.

Up in heaven, she sees God. “You said I had 30 more years to live,” she complains.

“That’s true,” says God. “So, what happened?” she asks.

God shrugs. “I didn’t recognize you.”

A m a n t a k e s h i s s ic k Chihuahua to the veterinarian.

They’re immediately taken back to a room.

Soon, a Labrador walks in, sniffs the Chihuahua for 10 minutes and leaves. Then a cat comes in, stares

27th State Media LLC

33

O THE SHARK BITES… at the Chihuahua for 10 minutes and leaves. Finally, the doctor comes in, prescribes some medicine and hands the man a $250 bill.

“This must be a mistake,” the man says. “I’ve been here only 20 minutes!”

“No mistake,” the doctor says.

“It’s $100 for the lab test, $100 for the cat scan and $50 for the medicine.”

Three guys go in for a job interview, all at the same office.

The fi rst one goes i n for h is interview and the interviewer says, “What’s the first thing you see when you look at me?”

The guy says, “That’s not too hard, you’ve got no ears.”

The interviewer says, “That’s it, get out, you’ll never be seen around here again.”

The second man takes his turn and is asked the same question.

The applicant replies, “Uh, you’ve got no ears.” The interviewer t h rows t he g uy out, cu rsi ng and yelling that he’ll never get a job with his company. As he is leaving, the second guy warns the third guy, “Listen man, whatever you do, don’t say he hasn’t got any ears. He’s so touchy with the ear thing.”

“Okay,” said man #3 on his way into the office.

Once inside he is told, “Name the first thing you notice when you look at me.”

The guy answers, “That’s easy, you wear contacts.”

The interviewer was flabbergasted, “How on earth did you know that, son?”

“What? Are you st upid? You can’t wear glasses, you’ve got no ears!”

Second time visitor, Travis Roy of Orlando, displaying the 2-foot black tip shark caught from the shoreline of Siesta Key. He and his cousins happened to be staying at one of the bungalows here at the

start of the Coronavirus pandemic.

The lack of any people in the Gulf is likely bringing sharks closer to the shoreline. Roy said, “ I love the beaches, warm water and powdery sand.”

photo by Trebor Britt

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With health being a primary concern, it is no surprise that everyone has used traditional ways to stay in touch with family and friends but also discovered new ways to communicate.

The phone, text, and email are the top three methods for staying in touch. However, a large number of people (62.65%) have discovered Zoom video conferencing. In fact, many are doing Zoom Happy Hours as a form of socializing.

What is interesting is that the current situation has led to an increase in the amount of communication respondents have had with family and friends: 20.48% of the respondents said that they are communicating more during the pandemic than they would normally.

Siesta Key Recovery The vast majority of respondents are quite confident in Siesta Key’s ability to recover from the current situation. Of the respondents, 83.13% think life on Siesta Key will return to normal in the near future.

What is exactly their definition of the near future? The time it will take to recover is where there are some differences of opinion.

The timeline is evenly split amongst the respondents between 5-6 months and 10-12 months being the expected amount of time to “normal” recovery with each getting 21.69% of the response. Also tying in percentage of responses was 3-4 months and more than 12 months with 20.48%. Lastly, 1-2 months had 8.43% and 7-9 months had 7.23% of the responses, respectively.

Ultimately, everyone is hopeful for a normal recovery, however, there are too many unknowns to be able to begin to project what the recovery timeline truly looks like.

Outdoor lifestyle changes & preferences Walking, biking, and driving a re t he t h ree most f requent activities during the Covid-19 pa ndem ic. Wa l k i ng was t he predominant activity with 87.95% of the respondents stating they are walking. Biking was second with less than half (42.17%) the respondents saying they are biking. Driving was third with 31.33% answering. Fortunately, or unfortunately, depending how

you look at it, driving was certainly While technically an outdoor easier with considerably less traffic activity, gardening is a home-based on the island. activity. A total of The beaches 31.33% said they are The largest group gardening during remained the most popular the pa ndem ic. of respondents destination for Perhaps, growing walkers a nd some vegetables (36.14%) said they that they can now bikers. A total of 33.73% would cook! are primarily walk on t he In addition to the beach wh i le increase in walking concerned about 28.92% would and biking, 24.10% walk in their re doi ng yoga their own personal aand neighborhood. other types of The south end exercise.

So, with all health during the of this new of the island was activity, more popular Covid-19 pandemic. perhaps, many will than the north come out of this end of the island in better physical with the south receiving 14.46% of shape. the respondents and the north end Supporting the local of the island receiving 8.43%. The Siesta Key Village received 13.25% economy of the responses.

The economic success of our One benefit of walking and community is critically important. biking is exploring the island and Obviously, many of the businesses becoming more familiar with that make up our local economy are surrounding neighborhoods. A small, privately owned enterprises total of 38.55% said they discovered that rely on our ongoing patronage new neighborhoods during this to survive. The pandemic has time that they weren’t previously familiar with.

Another benefit was spending more time talking with neighbors.

A total of 50.60% said they were talking more with neighbors in driveways, sidewalks and in other safe social-distancing ways.

Boating and fishing were the next two popular outdoor activities with 16.87% and 12.05%, respectively.

severely interrupted operations in the majority of the businesses.

Businesses were scrambling to try to keep serving their customers, even if in a greatly reduced capacity via takeout or curbside services.

Restaurateurs will be pleased to learn that 90.36% of respondents are comfortable with ordering takeout food and 85.54% were actually ordering takeout or having meals delivered.

The majority of people (66.27%) are supporting the local restaurants by doing this 1-2 times per week.

However, there is a significant number (19.28%) ordering takeout or having food delivered 3-4 ties a week.

Restaurateurs can also take solace in customers will come back to dine in once restrictions are relaxed or lifted. A total of 13.25% said the fact that they would come back immediately while 44.58% said it depends on how the restaurant is executing the new guidelines.

It will be critically important to restaurants to require masks, including for employees (71.08%), limit occupancy (75.9%), and restrict distances at checkout and other

gathering spots (78.31%). Adhering to these practices will make customers feel more comfortable about their health and the health of the staff. This will also increase the likelihood of coming to a specific restaurant.

Retailers also have been severely impacted by this crisis. On the bright side, online shopping has increased with 20.48% saying they are shopping more online than prior to the Covid-19 restrictions.

Shoppers will return to the stores, too: immediately (16.87%), depends on how the store is executing new guidelines (43.37%), and depends on the status of the virus and government guidelines (36.14%).

I n s u m m a r y, t h e s u r v e y concludes that residents and visitors of Siesta Key remain active and continue to take advantage of the amenities the “Key” offers; are willing to support the local economy however safely they ca n; believe ou r com mu n it y (and country) will recover; and ultimately, care about one another.

There are plenty of silver linings in a time of crisis.

Explore Our 4.49 Daily Specials

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Indoor activities The pandemic has forced us to spend even more time indoors.

How have Siesta Key residents been using this time?

Netflix and Amazon Prime seem to be big winners during this time.

Watching TV and movies was the number one response with 60.24%.

Reading was also getting a fair share of mindshare with 49.40% response.

The pandemic has certainly caused all of us to eat more meals at home. So, it is no surprise that cooking scored high marks with a 45.76% response rate.

It is also time to get those pesky home projects done that can sometimes be sidetracked by beautiful weather ad beaches.

42.27% said they were using this time to work on home projects.

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Dredging

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Parking Lot

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Contracting, did not respond t o S N L c a l l s i n l a t e Ap r i l seeking information about the renourishment project timeline.

The company has worked mostly on initiatives in the Mid-Atlantic States, based on information the SNL found in a review of federal contracts.

Ruderman added in his April 17 email, “From the Corps perspective everything is status quo and getting out of the starting gate as planned.”

const ruct ion of t wo pla n ned groins on South Lido during sea turtle nesting season. The groins have been planned to try to hold sand in place between subsequent renourishments of the beach, which the USACE has said it expects to be necessary every five years. The FDEP permit, which was issued in June 2018, is valid for 15 years.

The City of Sarasota was the co-applicant with the USACE

Big Pass Be cau s e of a mod i f icat ion in the Florida Department of Environmental Protection (FDEP) permit for the project, Ruderman noted, “Groin placement would begin over the winter, [likely] starting in January of 2021, well after the turtle nesting season is past. Those considerations are built into the environmental c ompl i a n c e s e g m e nt o f t h e project agreement with the City of Sarasota and the monitoring agencies.”

Ruderman added on April 17, “Starting with today’s coordination call they are working out the nuts and bolts scheduling matters, including turtle nest placement issues, as originally foreseen. The entire project is scheduled for conclusion by May 21 of next year.”

FDEP issued a revised permit on April 10, making it clear that the contractor would need to abide by the December 2016 U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service (FWS) Biological Opinion issued for the Lido initiative. That prohibits

for the FDEP permit for the Lido initiative.

In her email to city leaders, DavisShaw pointed out, “The sand placement can occur during turtle nesting season and there will be turtle and bird monitoring occurring during the project. The construction of the groins can’t start until after turtle season which ends Oct 31.”

Litigation still pending Two Siesta Key-based nonprofit organizations — Save Our Siesta Sand 2 (SOSS2) and the Siesta Key Association (SKA) —have litigation pending in an effort to prevent the removal of any sand from Big Pass. They have contended for years that the USACE design of the Lido project will lead not only to irrevocable damage to the pass but also to the Siesta Key shoreline.

They also have argued that the USACE should have used a more up-do-date software modeling system to show the potential effects of the dredging and the

placement of the groins on Lido.

However, the USACE has stood steadfast in saying that it has faith in its studies, which show no harm will come to the waterway or to the barrier island.

SOSS2 filed suit against the USACE in the U.S. District Court in the Middle District of Florida in January 2019. Although SOSS2 leaders indicated last year that they expected the judge in their case to rule by February, no decision has been forthcoming.

Attorney Jane West, whose eponymous firm is based in St. Augustine, filed the final brief in the SOSS2 case in November 2019. The USACE then filed its final reply in December 2019.

Responding to a request for an update, West told the SNL in early April, “The case has been fully briefed and there is no deadline for the court to issue a ruling.

In other cases when we hit a lull like this I will seek a case management conference just to move it along but given our current circumstances, that would really not be well received by the court. So for the time being we are in just a hold pattern until things ease up.” She was referring to adjustments to court calendars as a result of the novel coronavirus pandemic.

The SKA has argued that the City of Sarasota has not complied with its own policies or — as required by the city’s Comprehensive Plan — with Sarasota County policies i n proceedi ng with the Lido initiative.

The SKA lost its 12th Judicial Circuit Court case against the city last year. It has appealed the judge’s ruling to Florida’s Second District Court of Appeal. However, the case docket says the court granted the city’s outside counsel, John Herin Jr., an extension until May 8 to file his answer to the SKA’s initial brief. Herin is a partner with the Fox Rothschild law firm in Miami.

The SNL was not able to get comments from leaders of either SOSS2 or the SKA prior to the Siesta Sand deadline for this issue.

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he has had with them about the need to stay safe during the public health crisis.

Commissioner Alan Maio noted that the board likely would have its next regular meeting nine days after the lifting of specific beach restrictions on April 27. “At that point, we all may be very comfortable [with opening the parking lots].”

In light of t he discussion, Commissioner Nancy Detert said she would make a simple motion to give County Administrator Lewis considerable flexibility in how to move forward. The motion called for staff to “open the beaches with restrictions.”

“We all know that we could go down to the beach right this very minute and see people walking on the beach, but in a socially responsible manner,” Detert said. “We’re just allowing that privilege for everyone else.”

As it turned out, the public did not have to wait until May 5 for a revisiting of the parking lot issue.

In fact, not only did county staff announce on April 30 that all the parking lots would reopen on May 4 at county-operated beaches, but staff also said people once again could feel free to bring chairs, towels, coolers and canopies to the shore. Sunbathing and lounging would be fine, the announcement noted.

However, Media Relations Officer Brianne Grant emphasized, “[W]e are asking all beachgoers to maintain social distancing and keep groups to 10 or less.”

The Mobi-mat would be out on Siesta, as it would under normal circumstances, and beach wheelchairs would be available, too, Nicole Rissler, director of the county’s Parks, Recreation and Natural Resources Department pointed out in a county Facebook Live interview on April 30.

Yet, Rissler stressed, as of May 4, playgrounds, concessions, picnic shelters and other amenities would remain closed. Their reopening would be part of what Grant called Phase 3 of the easing of restrictions during the COVID-19 crisis.

The county decision about the beaches came one day after Gov. Ron DeSantis issued a new Executive Order, figuratively paving the way for most counties to return to some level of normalcy.

Additionally, in an email he sent to the commissioners just before 4 p.m. on April 27, County Administrator Lewis wrote, “Our lifeguards, beach

attendants and the Sheriff’s Office have been doing outstanding work.

Our Communications team did a great job getting the message out over the weekend [about the easing of restrictions].

“So far,” he added, “it shows that once again our residents will do the right thing.”

On April 29, when The Sarasota News Leader checked in with Kaitlyn R. Perez, community affairs director for the Sheriff’s Office, she reported, “Most everyone we came into contact with was following the rules for social distancing.”

Perez did note that she saw one incorrect tweet from a local TV station whose helicopter had flown over Siesta Public Beach. That tweet said Sheriff’s Office personnel were “kicking people off the beach” who were set up with chairs and coolers, Perez told the News Leader. She corrected that report “very quickly,” she added.

“Our guys and gals out on Siesta and all public beaches are informing folks that they must be participating in an ‘essential activity,’” Perez continued. “Not once have we told anyone to ‘leave’ the beach and I don’t believe we will anytime soon.”

Taking gradual steps Sarasota County Administrator Lewis had ordered all county public beaches closed as of 6 a.m. March 21, as Manatee County leaders prepared to take the same step. Local government leaders, Lewis said, had heard talk of spring break groups heading to Florida’s west coast after south Florida municipalities closed their shorelines in an effort to prevent spread of the novel coronavirus.

Yet, with the rate of new COVID-19 infections gradually having slowed in Sarasota County, Lewis indicated on April 22 that it was time to let people go back to the beach to take advantage of the outdoor activities the governor had encouraged in the April 1 Executive Order: walking, running, swimming, surfing and fishing.

“This has to deal with mental health,” Commissioner Detert said.

“People are getting so cooped up ...”

For those with anxiety problems and other mental health issues, Detert continued, “It would be more healthy to be out in the sunshine, walk the beach, get some exercise. Exercise is always good for your mental health.”

36

Siesta Sand

MAY 2020

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HOMES FOR SALE

• AMAZING LOCATION! 3Bd/2BA Florida style ranch home has it all! Don’t hesitate to see this tropical beauty! Meticulously maintained, Siesta Key Village and Beaches just minutes away. 1728 Billings St. $424K. For your personal viewing please call 941-587-4256. See additional pictures on Zillow!

• LOCATION! LOCATION! LOCATION! GRAND CANAL HOME ON PALM ISLAND. 476 Island Circle, Siesta Key, FL. This ultimate family beach house is 2 blocks from Siesta Key Beach and 5 blocks from the Village. 3 bedrooms, 3 ½ baths, heated pool, dock with electricity, even a working elevator. This beach oasis is well maintained and waiting for you! $1,250,000 MLS# 4443903 CONTACT DIANE GOODWIN, 941-7066620, #LoveWhereYouLiveSRQ, Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices Florida Realty.

• HARBOUR TOWNE YACHT CLUB - Across the street from Siesta Beach with a private deeded boat dock and water views! Renovated two bedroom, two bath.

One car garage with attic storage. Gated community on a deep-water marina. Pool, hot tub, tennis/pickle ball, clubhouse. MLS# A4433033, $539,000. Key Solutions Real Estate Group, Sheri & Bob Ruiz Bob: 941-544-3299 or Sheri: 941-400-4186.

• THE POINTE - Priced to Sell. Largest floor plan at 1380 square feet in a 2/2 with spacious lanai overlooking the ICW and Bay to the east and the Gulf and Siesta sunsets to the west. Amazing views from every room.

Gated with every amenity. MLS# A4438186, $495,000.

Key Solutions Real Estate Group, Sheri & Bob Ruiz Bob: 941-544-3299 or Sheri: 941-400-4186.

• THE POINTE - Exquisitely renovated 2/2 with incredible 270 degree water views! Beautifully decorated and move-in ready. Gated community with every amenity - pool, spa, tennis, pickle ball, fitness, clubhouse, boat docks, kayak racks and launch, picnic area, grills and on-site management. MLS #A4448625 $535,000. Key Solutions Real Estate Group, Sheri & Bob Ruiz Bob: 941-544-3299 or Sheri: 941-400-4186.

• HARBOUR TOWNE YACHT CLUB - Bright and spacious 3/3 townhome directly across the street from Siesta Beach and yards to the ICW by boat. Deeded slip with 20k pound lift directly outside the unit. Attached garage. Gated community with tennis, pool, clubhouse, etc. MLS# A4447427, $649,900. Key Solutions Real Estate Group, Sheri & Bob Ruiz Bob: 941-544-3299 or Sheri: 941-400-4186.

• HARBOUR TOWNE YACHT CLUB - Your Island Paradise Awaits! Across the street from Siesta public beach, this 2 /2 showplace has been beautifully renovated. Tile throughout. Water views. Deeded dock behind the unit and attached 1 car garage. Gated with pool and tennis. MLS# A4451556, $599,000. Key Solutions Real Estate Group, Sheri & Bob Ruiz Bob: 941544-3299 or Sheri: 941-400-4186.

• THE POINTE - This spectacular 9th floor unit has been totally and beautifully renovated with coastal colors to complement the water views from every room. The light 2/2 features tile throughout., an allnew kitchen with stunning white granite countertops and so much more. This is a must see. MLS# A4450026 $599,000. Key Solutions Real Estate Group, Sheri & Bob Ruiz Bob: 941-544-3299 or Sheri: 941-400-4186.

• HARBOUR TOWNE YACHT CLUB - Water views with private deeded boat dock on deep water marina and 10 minute walk to Siesta Beach. This renovated 2/2 unit is tiled throughout. Slip will accommodate a 43’ boat on a 13k lb. lift. 1 car attached garage with attic storage. Gated property. MLS# A4449225, $545,000. Key Solutions Real Estate Group, Sheri & Bob Ruiz Bob: 941544-3299 or Sheri: 941-400-4186.

• TRULY FABULOUS 2/2 WITH DIRECT GULF VIEWS. This Gulfside, 1st-floor unit is perfectly positioned overlooking the pool & amazing direct gulf front views of world-famous Siesta Key Beach!!

Walk right out the patio to the pool/beach - no stairs or elevators!! A very open, spacious, clean & cared for condo with full-sized washer/dryer, expansive lanai, walk-in closets, and extra storage. 6342 MIDNIGHT PASS RD, #415, SARASOTA, FL 34242 , MLS# A4444324, $1,050,000, Key Solutions Real Estate, 941- 894-1255 • NEWLY CONSTRUCTED Coastal Contemporary on the Grand Canal. Centrally located to Siesta Village and beaches. Natural light abounds this 3 bedroom, 3.5 bathrooms open floor plan with direct walkout

access to the open designed saltwater pool and deck.

Enjoy sunsets from your pool deck and Balconies. This home is minutes by boat, paddleboard or kayak to the Intercoastal Waterway. 4866 COMMONWEALTH DR, SARASOTA, FL 34242, MLS# A4437382, $1,659,000, Key Solutions Real Estate, 941- 894-1255 • YEAR-ROUND SUNSETS! This 10th-floor unit is perfectly positioned to enjoy gorgeous beachfront views! A very spacious, light, bright, clean and caredfor condo with a split floor plan and walk-in closets.

The hurricane impact sliding doors (replaced 2018) lead from the living room and bedrooms to the huge screened lanai. Furniture is negotiable. 6300 MIDNIGHT PASS RD, #1009, SARASOTA, FL 34242 MLS# A4425862, $949,900, Key Solutions Real Estate, 941-894-1255 • ABSOLUTELY STUNNING WATERFRONT HOME Designed to deliver the very BEST of ISLAND LIFE. Ideally situated mid-Siesta Key, this 6,000 square foot home affords easy access to both Siesta bridges, a quick walk to famed Siesta Beach, a short boat trip to the ICW and Gulf, and quick access to Siesta Key Village. 2 boat lifts (10k and 20k), a grotto-style saltwater pool and spa, a Tiki hut bar with mini kitchenette, and a screened sitting/dining area with built-in grill and outdoor gas fireplace. 1208 NORTHPORT DR, SARASOTA, FL 34242 MLS# A4461333, $3,295,000, Key Solutions Real Estate, 941-894-1255

• DEEDED BEACH ACCESS!!! $875,000 1122 HORIZON VIEW DRIVE, SARASOTA, Florida. Your feet will be in the Gulf of Mexico in 60 seconds!!! This immaculate pool home features large rooms and volume ceilings. Lovely oak floors and stylish tile will dazzle you. 3 Bedrooms and 3.5 bathrooms along with the lower level bonus area for generational living or guests.

The huge bonus area downstairs would be perfect for storage, workout center, hobby room or workshop.

The oversized garage could handle your cars, boat, jet skis, kayaks & bikes. Extensive decks for enjoying your Island Paradise abound!! You are walking distance to renowned local dining and a marina. In addition to all that, next door is Turtle Beach Park with kayak and boat launch facilities. This is one of the closest properties to the beach without having the direct beachfront price on a street of multi-million dollar properties. Quality concrete block construction throughout for peace of mind. A truly unique find!! Dan Miller, Re/Max Tropical Sands, 941-376-7442

NEW ON THE MARKET, 2BR/ • 2BA SIESTA KEY CONDO Great rental history/income for this updated 3rd floor unit. Walk to beach & Capt.

Curts! Very social complex with heated pool/clubhouse.

Turnkey furnished! $345K Stacey Andrews, Andrews & Assoc. Realty 941-504-1649

• 1835 GOLDENROD ST, SARASOTA, 34239 - This charming home has been lovingly remodeled in 2015, with no expense spared. Located in the desirable west-ofthe-trail neighborhood of Poinsettia Park 2, you’ll be only 1 mile to Siesta Key and 2 miles to downtown. Fall in love with the gorgeous tropical landscaping and large pool with its New Pebble-Tec Surface, relaxing waterfall, sun-

shelf, and Polar Plunge. This “Selby-like retreat” features 2 bedrooms, plus an office (possible third bedroom), 2 full baths, and several amenities. Enjoy the dining trellis, fire pit, putt-putt golf, and outdoor shower, all surrounded by AstroTurf & pavers for easy maintenance.

Inside boasts an abundance of natural light with “floorto-ceiling” windows and French doors, beautiful bamboo wood floors, and designer features in the kitchen and baths. Many more surprises await, a must see home in the heart of Sarasota! Make this tropical oasis your piece of paradise! KW on THE Water, MLS # A4444487, $699,000, presented by The Westerberg Group, Call Seth: 941-342SOLD (7653).

• WATERFRONT PROPERTY with OVERSIZED LOT! Located just off the Grand Canal, this home features 90 feet of concrete seawall including a dock with electric, lighting, and water. The original block ranch home sits on an oversized 18,000 Sq. Ft. lot, situated on a private culde-sac, located on a designated Canopy Road. Boasting 2200 Sq. Ft. of living space, this split floor plan includes 3 bedrooms, 2 baths, and a 2-car garage. Travertine pool deck and cage were updated in 2017. Just around the corner from Siesta Village and a mile to Siesta Beach provides for the ultimate Siesta Key Experience! KW On The Water, MLS #A4440889, $1,250,000, presented by The Westerberg Group, Call Seth:941-342-SOLD (7653) or Al: 856-278-7522.

• Rarely available home in Ringling Park! Situated on a double corner lot, this home has over 2,200 Sq.Ft. of interior living space. From the foyer, you can bring guests to the formal living room or head to the extra large kitchen, which is the center of the home. This elegant kitchen has all white cabinetry & new stainless steel appliances. The spacious layout features roomy work zones for prep, clean up, and storage. Open to the kitchen is the wonderful Florida room with a wall of windows overlooking the gorgeous tropical backyard. The large master suite has a walk-in closet plus an en-suite bathroom with newly tiled flooring. Enjoy true Florida living in the spectacular backyard oasis! Just a half mile to Payne Park and downtown, you are in the heart of Sarasota, yet have the feeling of a quaint neighborhood.

90 S Jefferson Ave, Sarasota, FL 34237 A4463064, $599,000 Presented by the Westerberg group, Please call Al Nemore 856-278-7522 0r 941-479-1125

• This beautiful and spacious 3 bedroom 2 bath midcentury modern gem has over 2,200 Sq.Ft. and is located just outside of downtown Sarasota. A complete renovation was completed in 2020, and features an open floor plan, loads of natural light and every upgrade found in a new home. Designer features are found throughout including solid wood cabinetry, granite countertops, stainless steal appliances, glass backsplash, and high end details. Other upgrades include brand new impact windows, 50+ year metal roof, new A/C and ductwork, new flooring, new paint, new electrical panel and all new wiring. Call for a private showing or view the virtual walk through to see the expansive vaulted ceilings and the grandeur of this stunning home.

2595 Belvoir Blvd, Sarasota, FL 34237 A4464789 $544,000 Presented by the Westerberg Group, please call Seth Westerberg 941.342.SOLD

TO ADVERTISE CALL 941-312-0665 or email info@27statemedia.com

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Island Chatter communit y. With that comes the announcement that the 11th Annual Siesta Key Crystal Classic is scheduled for November 13-16, 2020 on Siesta Beach. According to the press release, the committee is already working hard behind the scenes addressing the many c o mp o n e nt s a n d de t a i l s o f this highly significant event.

The Chamber is also proud to announce that Andy Daily, a local artist, business man, and Master Sa nd Sculptor, will take t he lead as Sand Management Team Coordinator. Updates regarding event i n for m at ion, a r t ist recruitment, vendor registration, advance ticket sales, etc. will be shared as they become available.

Siesta Fiesta rescheduled for October 2020 The Siesta Key Chamber of Com merce has an nounced t hat t he 42nd An nual Siesta Fiesta Art Festival, produced by Howard Alan Events, has been rescheduled for October 24 – 25, 2020 in Siesta Key Village. Stroll

Fencing

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along Ocean Blvd. while enjoying fine art and handmade crafts from 200 of the nation’s most talented artists and crafters.

Originally scheduled for April, “We were thrilled to be offered a reschedule date by Howard Alan, and look forward to a great fall on Siesta Key,” says Ann Frescura, Executive Director of the Siesta Key Chamber.

Key Chorale receives funds from Huisking Foundation Ke y C hora le ’s C i r q ue de s Voix® should have been their most profitable a nd excit i ng event of the season with revenues from the event helping make ends meet as they planned for the upcoming season. While they run a very lean organization, you can imagine the devastating financial impact of this major event being cancelled. That’s why the organization was so thankful when they received $5,000 in matching funds to aid during the 24-hour Giving Challenge on April 28 & 29. During this online

campaign, each gift up to $100, will be matched through giving strengthened by the Patterson Foundation, and will provide the fu nds necessa r y to keep Key Chorale strong and vital.

Addit ionally, the fi rst $5000 raised will be matched by the Huisking Foundation on behalf of Key Chorale.

Fu nd s ra i s e d t h r oug h t he Giving Challenge will help to get Key Chorale through this period when no revenues are coming in.

“We are committed to being here for you and our community after this health crisis has passed.

We vow to k e e p ou r e nt i r e community singing and to add beaut y, hope, and healing to our world through music,” says Key Chorale’s Artistic Director, Joseph Caulkins.

April and May are typically busy months for Key Chorale’s important community outreach with Visible Men Academy, an at-risk school for K-5 boys, in which Key Chorale brings music to 100 students who wouldn’t have a music program otherwise.

Spr i ng mu sic s e s sion s were

Continued from page 10

Holderness has told the SNL that he erected the fencing as a means of keeping people from violating federal and state advisories for social distancing to prevent the spread of the novel coronavirus COVID-19.

Although Sarasota County closed its publicly owned and operated beaches and beach accesses as of 6 a.m. on March 21, neither the state nor the county has imposed any restrictions on private beach property, such as the parcels where the fencing stands.

In an April 13 email to the SNL, Holderness wrote that he would not have needed the fence if the Sarasota County Sheriff’s Office had official means to enforce the social distancing directive, “especially during a pandemic.” The U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention has called for people to gather in groups

no greater than 10 and for everyone to remain at least 6 feet from each other.

Further, he continued in the April 13 email, the area where the fencing stands “is a neighborhood, not a county park,” and he said it was “swarmed after [the] county closed [the] main beach …”

Holderness has maintained that he will not take down the fencing.

The Code Enforcement process After an Affidavit of Violation has been issued in a Code Enforcement c a s e, t h e n e x t s t e p wo u l d b e presentation of the evidence before a Code Enforcement Special Magistrate during a hearing. As of April 13 county staff confirmed for the SNL that no Special Magistrate hearing had been set. That is a result of state and county

nerWord Search

cancelled due to school closures.

Off-Key Chorale, for those living with Parkinson’s, and Where Are My Keys? Chorale, a choir for those dealing with memory loss, had to cancel their spring rehearsals. In the meantime, Key Chorale has moved to YouTube and launched its Come Together Choir, Online Choral Rehearsals, with more than 350 registered from all over the country – and beyond. These episodes help singers to feel connected and to continue to experience the transformative power of music in a time when we all need it more than ever.

During the COVID-19 crisis, Key Chorale created the Come Together Choir, Online Choral Rehearsals, as a way for singers th roughout the count r y, and beyond, to come together and enjoy singing safely while social distancing

Siest a Key rest au ra nt s a re invited to register for the annual Savor Sarasota, running this year from June 1-14. Participating restaurants in Siesta Key and around Sarasota County will offer g uests prix-fixe, multicourse lunch and dinner menus for just $16 and $32 per person.

T h i s ye a r, r e s t au r a nt s w i l l feature Savor Sarasota menus for dine-in and/or to-go service (at the restaurant’s discretion), in order to abide by COVID-19 regulations.

Re s t au r a nt s i nt e r e s t e d i n participating in the 2020 Savor Sarasota, Restaurant Week to Go, must register online by May 31, at www.SavorSarasota.com.

Registration is free. Restaurants are asked to offer lunch menu op t io n s fo r $16 p e r p e r s o n and dinner for $32 per person.

Contact En riqueta Bala ndra, V S C ’s P r o j e c t M a n a g e r, a t EBala ndra@Visit Sa rasota.org with any questions.

For more details, visit www.

SavorSarasota.com.

Sarasota County Wide Restaurant Week, Restaurant Registration Open Snowy Plover - for related story go to page 20

actions in response to the COVID-19 crisis.

A fine for a violation may not exceed $250 per day for the first violation or $500 per day for a repeat violation, according to Section 2-349 of the County Code. Further, that section says, “A certified copy of an order imposing a fine … shall constitute a lien against the land on which the violation exists and upon any other real or personal property owned by the Violator.”

Additionally, it continues, “Any per diem penalty imposed … shall continue to accrue with interest at the statutory rate” until compliance has been achieved, the amount due to satisfy the lien exceeds the assessed value of the property, or the county forecloses on the lien.

Snowy Plover, photo courtesy of Kylie Wilson with Florida Audubon.

www.TheMariner.com

m

d ’s

Kathleen D Sailing Catamarans Let’s go sailing, KATHLEEN D Sailing Catamarans, serving Siesta Key from 3 locations: Downtown Sarasota, Longboat Key, and Anna Maria Island. If you would like to experience being on the water viewing Dolphin Watches, Sunset Sails, Snorkeling and Shelling call us at 941-870-4349 or go to our web site for detailed information www.kathleend.net USCG Certified for 20 passengers.

Answers to the WORD SEARCH from page 24 ®

To advertise in print or online contact: 27th State Media LLC at 941-312-0665 Send editorial and/or photos via email to: info@27statemedia.com

Published by 27th State Media LLC Contributing Writers and Photographers will be noted with bylines.

Guest commentary not necessarily the opinion of 27th State Media LLC Reproduction without written permission prohibited. We reserve the right to refuse any advertisement.

All business bios are extensions of the display advertisements.

27th State Media LLC is not responsible for claims made by advertisers.

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

DISCLAIMER: Please be aware that when you hire an unlicensed/uninsured person to do work at your home, you accept the liability. 27th State Media LLC is not responsible for claims made by advertisers.

P.O. BOX 35105, Sarasota, FL 34242 www.siestasand.net

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MAY 2020

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IMPORTANT NUMBERS Emergency (General)......................................................................911 Emergency Animal Clinic.............................................941-929-1818 Fishing & Hunting Licenses.........................................941-362-9888 FPL – Florida Power & Light........................................941-917-0708 FPL – Outage Report.................................................. 1-800-468-8243 Marriage License Bureau..............................................941-362-4066 Poison Info Center..................................................... 1-800-282-3171 Sarasota / Bradenton Intl. Airport..............................941-359-2770 Sarasota County Area Transit (SCAT).........................941-316-1234 Siesta Key Chamber of Commerce..............................941-349-3800 Sheriff / non-emergency..............................................941- 861-1601 Waste Management........................................................941-924-1254

Sunset Beach Resort Siesta Key Dream Inn

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Siesta Sand

MAY 2020

941.312.0665

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Volleyball Fanatic

Donna This month’s volleyball fanatic is Donna of Oldsmar, Florida. She’s played beach volleyball all over the state, but her favorite place to play is on the incredible sand and spectacular view of the Gulf of Mexico on the Siesta Beach shoreline. Donna plays in the Women’s AA Division and over the years has had many different partners.

She just loves the competition and is truly a “volleyball fanatic”. - 30 - “

VOTED BEST PIZZERIA 5 YEARS IN A ROW AND BEST ITALIAN CUISINE 3 YEARS IN A ROW! NOW SERVING GLUTEN FREE PIZZA

New Gulf Gate location 6574 Superior Ave. Check out our Italian Market!

SIESTA KEY/GULF GATE 941.349.BROS (2767)

Less than 2 miles away from Siesta Key Beach

WE DELIVER UNTIL 4 a.m. EVERYDAY!

ANA MARIA ISLAND WE ALSO DELIVER TO THE BEACH!

105 Bridge Street Anna Maria Island 34217

LONGBOAT KEY 5610 Gulf of Mexico Drive #4 - 941.383.5551

Open for Lunch & Dinner - Dine-In, Take-Out & Delivery 7 Days a Week!

NOW SERVING GLUTEN-FREE CAULIFLOWER PIZZA CRUST! NOW SERVING VEGAN CHEESE!!!

NORTH PORT / VENICE ISLAND

Straight out of Hoboken, New Jersey... Nobody Makes Pizza Like We Do!

NOW SERVING PASTA DISHES AT ALL OUR LOCATIONS! Come check out our Bar in our New Gulf Gate Restaurant

Free slice for life with this tatoo

$4 OFF ANY ORDER OVER $25

THE BIGGEST PIZZA BY THE SLICE SHOWCASE IN ALL OF SARASOTA/SIESTA KEY, WITH THE BEST SLICE DEALS AVAILABLE TILL CLOSE!!!

PICK UP ONLY NOT FOR DELIVERY Expires May 31, 2020

20% OFF ANYTHING IN THE ITALIAN MARKET

Expires May 31, 2020

• BEST PIZZERIA 5 YEARS IN A ROW ON TRIPADVISOR • BEST ITALIAN CUISINE 3 YEARS IN A ROW ON TRIPADVISOR • BEST QUICK BITES IN SARASOTA ON TRIPADVISOR • "BEST PIZZA" IN CREATIVE LOAFING'S BEST OF THE SUNCOAST ISSUE 2010!

• 2020 SARASOTA READERS CHOICE AWARD WINNER RUNNER UP

Serving Siesta Key Since 2004

NEW ARCADE ROOM AT OUR GG LOCATION

#1 TWO CHEESE SLICES + DRINK $6 #2 ANY TWO SLICES + ANY SOFT DRINK $7 #3 ANY SLICE + ANY BEER $7 #4 ANY 2 SLICES+ ANY BEER $10.00 all day long All locations are open for lunch