SUMMER 2014
FREE
rett arber
116 Blue Rd -$244,900
3br, 2ba. Surround sound, central vacuum system, skylight, fully insullated walls, custom designed kitchen with fabulous granite countertops and much more!
1 Pearl Street - $219,900
2br, 1ba. Minutes to the beach. Many updates including new master bathroom. Large living room opens into dining area & kitchen along with a spacious Florida room.
43 E Wentworth St- $109,000
2 br, 1 ba. You must see this "Florida Lifestyle" charming home. It truly is a tropical getaway inside and out!! Turn key furnished and decorated, just pack a bag!!
! D L SO 515 Sandlor Dr. - $154,900
2br, 2ba. Cute and cozy ranch house on quiet residential street with no thru traffic. Surrounded by water on three sides. Private pool in rear.
Andrea Barber Broker/Realtor
Cell: 941-270-6052
barberbw@earthlink.net
Brett Barber Realtor
Cell: 941-270-1659
barberbw@earthlink.net
835 E. 4th St. - $143,200
2br, 2ba. Bike to the beach, shopping & dining from this charming pool home! Newer roof, A/C, kitchen, flooring & more!! The screened lanai/pool area boasts Mexican tile.
Toni L. Steigerwald Realtor Cell: 941-548-8299
tonisellssorida@mail.com
643 Foxwood Blvd #78 -$134,900
Spacious turn-key condominium unit Windows are adorned with Bahama shutters. Large community with active clubhouse, resort style pool, hot tub, tennis courts & shuffleboard.
Larry Cornell
SW Florida Dream Builders, LLC
Cell: 941-661-2072
LarryCornell@comcast.net
Kiki Howard
Sales Associate
Cell: 941-237-6397
kikikeys12@icloud.com
CONTENT 06
MILES BOSWORTH By the time we lived in Arizona (age 12), I had discovered music as a passion. I would spend hours listening to music and singing along.
10
KENNY ROSE Local artist and entertainer, Kenny Rose has an unquestionable talent in working a crowd. He is an old school celebrity here in Englewood, where everybody knows his name. 2 | THE SAND DOLLAR
sUMMER 2014
36 STUMP PASS
MORE FEATURES
14 20 24 34 38
LUCKY 7
Music soothes the soul and even makes us want to dance the night away!
KIDS EAT FREE Find out where your children can eat for free or almost free.
CREATIVE CLASSES
Year-Round Classes in Fine Arts, Crafts & Much, Much More!
SUP PADDLE BOARDING - SPECIAL OLYMPICS Coaching local athletes in the Stand Up Paddle Special Olympics is an incredible experience.
LET'S GO FISHING Summer across south west Florida is upon us! It’s no secret that the water, and the fishing is heating up pretty quickly!
16
Beach Road Wine Bar & Bistro The restaurant features healthy gourmet foods, and the menu is seasonal, utilizing fresh items that are appropriate to the particular season. The diner experiences fine cuisine in an elegant, yet relaxed atmosphere.
22 Placida Grill The Placida Grill is not just an establishment to visit while in the area. This eatery is worth a drive. With 9 beer taps and 4 or 5 of them rotating, there is always something new to try.
26
Florida Manatees
MORE FEATURES
41 42 44
TWIN LOBSTERS
Your New England seafood connection.
TENNIS IN CHARLOTTE COUNTY
For less than $50, you can get started with a racquet and a can of balls.
GALLOWAY ROOFING
Protect your family during hurricane season.
Cover: Maddox Drinnen of Englewood. His photo was taken in Stump Pass by Deana Camerlingo. See more about Stump Pass on pg. 36
THE SAND DOLLAR | 3
Experience The Coastal Dream
PUBLISHER Brenda Fuller
EDITOR Deana Camerlingo
The Sand Dollar Magazine Englewood, FL 34223 (941) 999-4973 (631) 609-0297 www.TheSandDollarMag.com info@thesanddollarmag.com
CONTRIBUTING EDITOR Cindy Fellows
ART DIRECTOR Brenda Fuller
SALES & MARKETING Deana Camerlingo & Brenda Fuller
CONTRIBUTING WRITERS Deana Camerlingo Miles Bosworth Kenny Rose Mallory Herzog Renee Galloway Nicole Meirs Peter Folaros William Wrigley FWC
CREATIVE CONTRIBUTOR Bailey Fuller (Root Toot) The Sand Dollar Magazine - Volume 1/Issue 2
All rights regarding the printed edition of The Sand Dollar Magazine and www.TheSandDollarMag.com are reserved. Reproduction of any part of The Sand Dollar Magazine/or this associated web site without the written permission of The Sand Dollar Magazine is prohibited. All views and comments expressed in The Sand Dollar Magazine are solely the opinions of the writers and not necessarily the opinions of The Sand Dollar Magazine. The Sand Dollar Magazine reserves the right to reject and refuse any materials submitted to it for The Sand Dollar Magazine or www.TheSandDollarMag.com.
THE SAND DOLLAR | 5
Miles Bosworth
Article & Photos contributed by Miles Bosworth
Beautiful Place
This Summer, I am bringing local artists into my studio to produce a record together. I am planning to release the album at the FAME Music City Festival in the Fall of 2014. We will donate a large portion of the proceeds from the album to FAME. Some of the local artists who have agreed to lend their talents include: Kenny Rose, Shayne and Trixie Mac, Emily Cage, Marty Moss, Seamus McCarthy, Chris Walker, Larry Perkins and Shawn Brown. Contact Info: Miles Bosworth 2017 Laurel Ave Englewood, FL 34224 716-984-4053 www.milesbosworth.com milesbosworthmusic@gmail.com
7 | THE SAND DOLLAR
W
hen I was born, I came into this world with some turbulence, afflicted by several major birth defects. Fortunately, the outstanding medical staff at Denver Children’s Hospital were able to keep me alive. As with many triumphs in life, this one was not without a price. Although I survived my birth defects and the surgeries to repair them, my body has been left scarred and disfigured. As a result, I have lived my entire life with chronic and severe pain. This has cultivated a great deal of emotions in me, and I have been able to translate those experiences and emotions into music. This is perhaps due in part to the fact that both of my biological parents were musicians; so I am a living example of the power of genetic predisposition. My interest in music began as early as 2. I only know this because there are photographs of me and a little guitar. My parents divorced when I was 3, and they remarried other (remarkable) people by the time I was six. Thus, my family grew from a 2-parent, single child configuration to a 4-parent, 4 child configuration. By the time I was fully grown, I had gone from being an only child to being the middle child in not one, but two families. Life is funny that way, I guess. During this time, I had the fortunate opportunity to travel with my mother and my stepfather from the age of 6 until 14. We lived in Puerto Rico, Colorado, Arizona, the East Coast of Florida and eventually settled in Rotonda, FL. My time as something of a vagabond textured my view of the world that opened my eyes to other cultures and fostered in me, a love of musical diversity. Adding to this diversity was the eclectic musical tastes of not one or two, but four parents. Growing up, my single most influential musical influence was Elton John. My parents also turned me on to the likes of CSN, Tom Petty, Little Feat, Midnight Oil, Stevie Ray Vaughan, Rickie Lee Jones, Bonnie Raitt and the list goes on. By the time we lived in Arizona (age 12), I had discovered music as a passion. I would spend hours listening to music and singing along. When we moved to Rotonda, my parents picked up an upright grand piano. My mom began teaching me how to play it. As I got more into playing, I found myself wanting to write my own songs. They were terrible. Cheesy, corny, poorly worded and mind-numbingly repetitive. Still, I couldn’t help but spend hours working on these songs. After a year or so, we moved up the road to a different house in Rotonda. We literally rolled the piano down the street. If the picture looks a little ridiculous in your mind, you’re dead on. This time, the piano was moved into my bedroom closet. I had a room off the back of the house and my family, supportive as they were, deserved a break from the noise. I spent most of high school chasing girls and writing silly love songs. I was in the Lemon Bay High School choir and vocal ensemble groups. I moved to Buffalo, NY and got married in 2003 after a semester at UCF. This was a time in my life when THE SAND DOLLAR | 7
I was faced with the issue of deciding what kind of priority music would take in my life. It turns out the one I really married was my music. It took precedent over my school, work and relationships. By 2005, I had a band together and was playing shows in WNY. We even got a song “I Bleed” played on the Buffalo commercial Rock radio station 103.3 The EDGE. As often happens with both marriages and bands, life took us in different directions. The next stop on my journey was the Music City, Nashville, TN. This was a humbling experience for me. I learned a lot of hard lessons about life and the music business there. I continued writing and producing and by 2012, I had released an EP with my band Pistol Pete & The Contract Killers and was touring and releasing music with my latest group Third Wheel Tuesday. We even performed live on TV in Roanoke, VA on 2 separate occasions. Our touring eventually led us back to my home in Englewood. We saw long term performing opportunities in SWFL and decided to move to the Gulf Coast. Despite immediate and mounting success professionally, the group developed major personal conflicts. When TWT split in January of 2013, I shifted my focus to performing. I resolved to play from Naples to Tampa and I have since accomplished this goal. In addition to performing, I have begun writing and producing more than ever. I released an EP in November of 2013 called “Satellites.” The record featured a song called Juice Box. I
8 | THE SAND DOLLAR
was inspired to write it by my 2 boys, Alex (then 8) and Andyn (then 3). I invited the locally famous Kenny Rose to come play on the track with me along with up and coming singer, Emily Cage, who was just 14 when she recorded with me. She has since made regular performing appearances with another fantastic local singer, Marty Moss. I also performed at the FAME Music City event in 2013 and was able to raise $140 for the Friends for the Advancement of Music Education in just 30 minutes by giving away my CD’s for donations during my performance. This experience, combined with my recent work in the studio with Kenny and Emily, ignited an idea in my mind that has spread like a wildfire. This Summer, I am bringing local artists into my studio to produce a record together. I am planning to release the album at the FAME Music City festival in the Fall of 2014. We will give a large part of the proceeds from the album to FAME. Some of the local artists who have agreed to lend their talents include Kenny Rose, Shayne and Trixie Mac, Emily Cage, Marty Moss, Seamus McCarthy, Chris Walker, Larry Perkins and Shawn Brown. Currently, I am promoting my latest release, Beautiful Place (EP). As with most of my recordings, you can download all the songs on this album AND the Satellites EP from last year for FREE online at: www.milesbosworth. com. You can also find me and/or my music on Twitter, Facebook, YouTube, SoundCloud, Instagram and Spotify.
THE SAND DOLLAR | 9
KENNY ROSE Artist & Entertainer
L
ocal artist and entertainer, Kenny Rose, has an unquestionable talent in working a crowd. He is an old school celebrity here in Englewood, where everybody knows his name. He is the guy everyone looks at and thinks, “Man, that’s the life!” It did, however, take some time for Kenny to follow the path that led him here. He left Michigan after the last of his four children went off to college. There were a few tough years before he made the move. Due to a major health issue in 2001, he ended up in a 3 week coma. He credits his survival to his wife and the U of M Hospital. He then sold his family car dealership a few years later during the downturn of the 10 | THE SAND DOLLAR
economy and barely broke even. They eventually found a place down here where Kenny could fit his piano, and in 2005, he and his wife settled in Rotonda where he could live doing what he loves. They have lived here full-time for over 10 years now. We, at The Sand Dollar Magazine, asked Kenny how he came to realize his dream?” Here was his response: "My passion for music comes from my Dad’s side of the family. My mom played some piano, and my dad played violin. My dad loved music and played a gut bucket,which is an upside down wash tub with a long handle stuck to the side and a G-string going from the top of the handle to an eye hook in the wash tub. It sounded like a bass guitar, and he was the
Biography provided by K
MASTER of it! Though he wasn’t a drinker (he was diabetic and very good with his diet), he loved the piano bars. He would take us after we turned 18, and we’d sing and play all night. Occasionally, he would have his favorite piano player, Joanie, come to the house of the dealership for parties; amazing memories. She would always show up with her bag of 'toys' (percussion instruments) and hand them out so everyone could play along. That’s where I learned that watching someone play music is not nearly as much fun as playing along, so to this day, I hand out 'toys' and we all have a ball. I have recently added a wireless mic so that the crowd can sing along as well. There are few things that beat the energy and
Kenny Rose - Images by Kenny Rose & Vic Biggs
high you get from watching people having fun and playing along with you and your music. It’s incredible. We have learned to live with a lot less and have found we are so much happier now. I never regret for one day the years at the dealership. It gave me and my family an amazing life, but, wow, doing what you absolutely love to do for a living is so amazing! I wish that for everyone. I am so blessed and lucky. The most amazing person on the planet is my bride, Tammy. She has been so supportive of me and anything I’ve ever wanted to do. Our love is strong, true and faithful. My first time playing in front of an audience was at a bar called the Backseat Saloon in Keego Harbor, Michigan. It has long since been torn, but it was a great spot. They had an open mic on Monday's there, and I played 2 songs. I was scared to death, but it seemed to go okay. I think I was around 23 or so. The manager of that bar also helped the same owner run a bar in Union Lake called Baldy’s, and he gave me a gig there every Monday night. Some great friends of mine (Bobby Ashton and Patti Wallace Freel) formed a little trio band and played there for a long time. Later, Bobby and I formed a trio with another close friend of ours, Kevin McFarland. We called ourselves Triality. It was so much fun playing with them. Kev and I played guitar, and Bobby played piano. They were amazing at harmonies, and that became our trademark. After Aubrey was born, I took a break from the music business for many years. One night at our favorite
restaurant, my bride surprised me by telling the owner, “You should hire Kenny to do an open mic here.” Remarkably, he agreed. I was floored. I had to learn a bunch of songs, get gear and many other things together to get set up. I called my old buddy, Bobby, and asked my friend, Rick Bidinger, if he would run the sound for us, and we started just a few weeks later! This time the passion was uncontrollable, and I realized my bride knew me better than I did. I would never stop playing out again. I never in my life imagined that someday it would become my 'job'. I have met so many amazing and talented musicians over the years, as well as some of the nicest bar and club owners. When we moved down to Englewood, the first people we met were the guys in the Smoked Mullet Band. They have been dear friends ever since. They took me under their wing and helped us find our way around down here. Ronnie Walshaw, the bass player from The Mullets, and I formed a duo and played for several years under the name 2 Sheets to the Wind, until he, sadly and unexpectedly, passed away. He taught me so much about the business, but more than anything, he was one of the kindest and most gentle souls I have ever known. Today, lead guitarist, Bobby Taylor, and drummer, Terry Hargis, and I sometimes jam at a house party, or if any of us have a gig, we usually end up all sitting in. It’s such an honor for me to play with them. They are legends down here, playing this area
Image by Vic
tor Big gs
THE SAND DOLLAR | 11
Kenny Rose
Continued
for over 30 years. Recently, I met William (Del Ray) Smith, Marty Moss, Eric, Kim Tiedge (Gypsy) and Miles Bosworth. I was so excited to find out Miles and I will be in same Sand Dollar Magazine issue! They are all wonderful and very talented musicians, but, more importantly, just really great people. The music community is different down here. Most places it’s a very dog eat dog world. Down here it’s not that way. Helping each other is what this community of musicians are all about. It is really amazing. We have met most of our close friends through music, most notably, our friends from F.A.M.E., which is a non-profit organization that is dear to our hearts. It stands for Friends for the Advancement of Musical Education, and, basically, we raise money to buy instruments for our local schools. The instruments stay with the schools, so every year their music departments grow. It gives kids a chance to play instruments without wondering if their parents can afford them. Also, parents don’t have to buy expensive instruments, only to see them sit on a shelf a month later, because their child decided it wasn’t the right choice. Our local band and orchestra departments have grown considerably since this program started, and that keeps a lot more kids off the streets and gives them a positive feeling and a reason to go to school. Each and every member of this organization are close friends of ours, and we love all of them. Playing in a tourist town like this, where we have an actual tourist season, is really different. For 6 months of the year, your gigs are full, and the places are crazy-busy. Then you have the 6 months where you hope and pray your local friends come out to see you, so you have someone to sing to. The other hard part is that a lot of the folks that are here 6 months of the year have become very close friends. It’s so hard see them leave and be gone for so long, but it does make the time have together very special. I want to thank the bar owners and managers who have helped me live my dream. A special thank you to those of you who keep the music alive when the season ends. We musicians need the work desperately, and the locals appreciate the entertainment! Also, big thanks to all of our 12 | THE SAND DOLLAR
friends who come out and support us, making it possible for the clubs to hire us. We are so grateful! I am the luckiest man in the world. I have an amazing wife who loves me, 4 kids, who we are very close to, and 5 grand babies. As Tammy and I say to each other all the time, 'It's been a great ride!'" ~Kenny
Contact Kenny: kentam.rose@gmail.com 941-662-0444 www.kennyrose.com
Photos by Victor Biggs
THE SAND DOLLAR | 13
Lucky 7
Music to Sooth Your Soul
Article by Renee Galloway & Images Courtesy of TK Photography
P
eople have said that the world would be dark if music was not in our lives. Turn off the music, and you are turning off the lights. Some may say they hear the sound of music from a raindrop hitting a Maple leaf. Others say they hear a melody from the sounds of whales communicating. However you create music in your mind, it is a powerful tool in our lives. It carries us through rough times. A tune lifts us up. It brings us down. Music soothes the soul, and even makes us want to dance the night away! There are so many genres 14 | THE SAND DOLLAR
of music that can entice us to feel an assortment of emotions, but, when you think of teenagers and music, your first thought is often head banging, heavy metal and rock and roll, unless you've had the opportunity to listen to the big band sounds of seven local high school music students, appropriately named Lucky 7. These seven teenagers, students of Lemon Bay High School in Englewood, are top-notch musicians, each with a unique personality. Their genre of music was not chosen for them. They choose it! Jazz is not a common choice for young musicians, especially jazz song choices like “Sing, Sing, Sing” and “Peter Gun.” That said, it is a valuable gift
Images Courtesy of TK Photography
for any young child, teenager or adult, to want to learn to play an instrument, learn to harmonize and want to learn to read music. Watching Lucky 7 take shape and evolve over this past year has been inspirational. They have performed at a variety of local restaurants and events. Events like the Boca Grande Chamber of Commerce Tarpon Festival, Save the Tarpon Festival, BGCC Lobster Bake Fundraiser, Boca Grande’s newest hot spot, The Sand Bar, South Gulf Cove Yacht Club's private party, New Year’s Eve private party, Lemon Bay High School’s Annual Jazz Concert, Englewood Event Center, and their very first gig at the Vineland Elementary School, where they pulled in $49.00 in tips! It is said that Lucky 7’s favorite place to perform is Ricaltini’s Bar and Grille in Placida where they have been performing for over six months for patrons, family, friends and their very own groupies. They have become very popular, and it doesn’t look like they will be stopping any time soon! Although Jazz is celebrated every April around the world, here in the Sunshine State, jazz is performed, played and rehearsed in hundreds of bars, restaurants, night clubs and other events year round. The smooth, rich jazz sounds seem to be infectious! Lucky 7 is becoming a household name, and if you
have the chance to listen to them play, you will know why. For more information, visit www.lucky7jazz.info , www.facebook.com/lukcy7jazz, or call 941-468-2865 for event and private party bookings. Just a note: It is a bitter sweet time for jazz ensemble Lucky 7. They say farewell to their original saxophone player, Jake Robinson. He begins his new journey as a college student at Stetson University in Deland, Florida. Jake was selected as a full ride scholarship recipient to study music at Stetson University and is a third place saxophone Florida State winner! Jake, we wish you all the best!
Pictured above: Lucky 7’s newest band member is Lemon Bay High School freshman, Jordan Schneider. THE SAND DOLLAR | 15
Article by Peter Folaros Images by Deana Camerlingo & Brenda Fuller
Beach Road Wine Bar & Bistro
T
hink about a day when you would love to do some shopping in a store that featured local artists and artisans, get out on a kayak or paddle board and get some exercise and sunshine, then enjoy a gourmet meal with a fine glass of wine or a craft beer. You can do all of those things at Beach Road Wine Bar and Bistro. It nests in a beautiful setting on an inlet of Lemon Bay and affords the diner beautiful views and stunning sunsets. The owners, Jill and Scott, have, 16 | THE SAND DOLLAR
Although there are elements of various international items on the menu, the approach here is more of a fusion style, using various types of cuisine creatively to form new and different meals. over the years, done some extensive renovations that have made both the indoor and outdoor dining areas comfortable and elegant. If you are from out-of-town or live here and have guests from out-of-town, it is a must stop that is sure to impress. The outdoor dining area has both an open and a covered area to accommodate the wishes of the client, and, of course, if it rains you can still enjoy the outdoor panorama from your table in the covered section. Although we live in a land where seasons greatly affect our economics, Beach Bistro has loyal local clientele who appreciate the
amenities year around. Jill and Scott, who are originally from New Jersey, started here thirteen years ago with a boat rental business; however, over the years the location evolved into a gift shop and then a wine bar and restaurant. Jill, whose energy and vivacious personality permeates the atmosphere at Beach Road Wine Bar and Bistro, is a hands-on owner who keeps an eye on everything that has to do with the shop and restaurant. Scott handles the boat rental end of the business, which includes motor boats, pontoon boats, jet skis, kayaks and paddle boards. Particularly in season, all three aspects of the business are abuzz with activity. The restaurant features healthy gourmet foods and the menu is seasonal, utilizing fresh items that are appropriate to the particular season. The diner experiences fine cuisine in an elegant, yet relaxed atmosphere. The culinary wizards behind the cuisine are Jeremy Vigus, (head chef), and sous chef, E.J. Webster.
They work amazingly well together and formulate some very creative dishes. Although there are elements of various international items on the menu, the approach here is more of a fusion style, using various types of cuisine creatively to form new and different meals. To accompany these interesting and creative dishes, there are over 70 wine selections, an array of beers and wine-based cocktails. There have been several wine pairings at the bistro, and Jill anticipates that in the future there will also be beer pairings. Here is the best part for you wine aficionados: On Wednesday nights, a certain selection of bottles of wine are sold at half price. That has always been an attention getter for wine lovers (as one would imagine). In addition, there is an upcoming wine tastings on ugust 18th. The wine tastings are from 7pm -8 pm, and there will be live entertainment and complimentary hors d’oeuvres. Tastings are $20 per person. Beach Bistro tries to utilize local produce and wants to support the people in our area. The gift store features forty local artists and artisans and is a real treasure trove for buyers. Some other features of the Bistro that are appreciated by many is that they are child and pet friendly. Also, live entertainment is offered on a regular
basis. Sitting outside, listening to live music, sipping a glass of wine, surveying the beauty of Lemon Bay and being attended to by servers who are efficient, pleasant and very knowledgeable is an experience you
need to savor. The entire complex is refreshing and beautiful. It is truly Englewood’s jewel by the sea.
THE SAND DOLLAR | 17
Beach Road Wine Bar & Bistro’s New Menu Healthy Gourmet Food Here are some of the new, creative dishes on the menu:
1
Argentinian Pink Shrimp & Grits
Wild caught deep water shrimp served with organic stone ground cheddar grits & wilted kale. Garnished with green onion aioli and pickled okra. $23.95
2
Grilled Ono
Grilled wahoo with a sweet and smoky spice rub served with sweet potatosmoked sausage jambalaya, aromatic basmati rice and sautĂŠed broccolini $21.95
3
Beach Road Mac N Cheese
If you like it hot, this one is for you! Penne pasta, shallots, garlic, Andouille sausage and Argentinian pink shrimp tossed in a Chardonnay-jalapeno-asiago cream. $19.95 18 | THE SAND DOLLAR
4
Duck Trap River Smoked Salmon Flatbread
Roasted red peppers, red onions, arugula and horseradish Aioli. 10.95
5
Free Range Bison Burger
Hand-crafted bison burger topped with smoky “moody blue” cheese and citrus mustard. BBQ sauce/presented with baby red potato salad. 15.95
6
All Natural Grilled Chicken 18.95
Marinated, grilled and served with four color quinoa salad, sautéed broccolini, sundried tomato pesto & oreganata sauce. 18.95
KIDS EAT FREE (or Almost free)
NATIONAL RESTAURANTS
6. Jason’s Deli: Wednesdays - Kids 12 and under eat free with purchase of adult meal. 2 kids meals per adult 1. Applebees: Tuesdays - For each adult entrée meal purchased. Call ahead for participating locations. purchase (excluding the 2 for $20 deal), you can get one free kids’ meal. If you have a big family, additional 7. Perkin’s: Everyday from 3 pm -10 pm kids eat for kids are just $1.00. Not valid with any other coupon or free for kids 12 & under (1 child per adult entrée) promotional value. 8. Bob Evans: Tuesdays - Free Kids’ Meal with every 2. Denny’s (Englewood): Monday- Saturday kids Adult meal purchased after 4 pm. eat free – 10 & under. Other locations: Tuesdays kids eat free from 4-10 pm. Restrictions may apply. 9. Sonny’s Bar-B-Q: Saturdays kids eat free – 12 & Ask your server for details. under 3. Buffalo Wild Wings: Mondays - Kids 12 and under can order from the kids’ menu for just $0.99 from 5-8 pm. 4. IHOP: Monday, Tuesday, and Wednesday Kids 12 and under eat free from 4-8 pm. One kids’ menu item per adult entrée. Drinks not included. 5. Hooters : Saturday 11 am – 5 pm kids eat free for kids 12 & under. 20 | THE SAND DOLLAR
10. Sakura Buffet – Kids 3 & under eat free. 11. Cici’s Pizza: Dail - Kids 3 and under eat free. Ask server for specific details. 12. Chick-fil-a: Tuesdays - Free kids’ meal with the purchase of an adult combo meal from 5:30-7:30 pm. Participation may vary by location. Day offered may vary by location. Some locations charge $0.99 per kids’ meal.
13. Golden Corral: Tuesdays - Kids 3 and under can eat for just $1.99. 14. Steak ‘n Shake: Saturdays & Sundays - Free kid’s entrée for every $9 purchased, Participation varies by location. 15. Beef 'O' Brady's: Tuesdays - Kids eat free 4-9pm with purchase of adult entrée. 1 child per adult.
LOCAL RESTAURANTS 16. Goal Post – Everyday $1.99 including drink for kids 12 & under 17. Harpoon Harry’s – Friday from 6-9 pm $3.99 meals include 16 tokens and karaoke 18. Luigi’s Italian Restaurant & Pizzeria – Saturday kids eat free– 12 & under
If you don't see the name of your restaurant on this list, or if you know of one we are missing, please email us at info@thesanddollarmag.com. We would be happy to add it to the list!
THE SAND DOLLAR | 21
Article by Deana Camerlingo Images by Deana Camerlingo & Candace Wright
I
t’s always a delight to see a fresh face on the block, especially when it’s the new culinary hot spot, the Placida Grill. Tucked away in the quaint Fiddler’s Green on Placida Road, it’s a place many locals are getting used to frequenting. Scott and Susie Gordon, a brother and sister team from Wisconsin, opened their doors this past December. Both veteran restaurateurs, they are proving that they go above and beyond in the world of epicurean indulgence. Step inside 22 | THE SAND DOLLAR
to an intimate bar that opens to a spacious dining room adorned with the photos of local photographer, Candace Wright, giving the space a clean, nautical feel. During the summer, the restaurant is ready to serve at 11 a.m., five days a week. There is a variety of delicious lunch entrées, such as the superb country fried chicken sandwich. It’s simple, but also to die for! Made with tender, juicy chicken breast and Chef Susie’s incredible homemade purple slaw with chipotle aioli, it’s one of the tastiest lunch plates around.
A chicken sandwich, granted, can sound just like, well, a chicken sandwich. Not this one. Are you a burger fan? They’ve got those too. Named after their terrific server, Nicole Grotts, the Nicole Burger has wild mushrooms and goat cheese. It is rich and satisfying. There are also lighter dishes such as a quinoa salad with corn, radish, cucumber, and scallions, with sunflower, pumpkin and sesame seeds. All tossed in a cilantro vinaigrette. Add grilled shrimp or a 6 ounce steak for a nice combo. Yum! There are a variety of soft
tacos such as Mahi-Mahi, shrimp and the Carnitas tacos with slow roasted pork. There is an hour, between 3 and 4 when they serve a bar menu to allow preparation for the extensive dinner menu beginning a 5 pm. At nighttime, there are P.E.I. mussels steamed in a Belgian white ale and fresh Gulf “Killer Shrimp” in a Thai coconut broth, along with lamb sliders or a Scotch egg. That’s just a few items on their appetizer menu alone. If some hearty fare is what you crave, the entrée menu serves up bone in ribeye along with sea scallops, shrimp and nightly fresh fish specials such as Hogfish, Tripletail, or Pompano. Pasta entrees such as Papardelle Al Fresco or Susie’s Cajun Fettuccini are favorites. Chef Susie, a graduate of Johnson and Wales, enjoys creating a variety of dishes with a southern flair and showcasing specials during the week. Every Wednesday and Thursday they do baby back ribs and hot wings with unique, made-from-scratch sauces. The accompanying sides of collard greens (with generous portions of bacon), and the cornbread pudding are reason enough to pay them a visit. Tuesday nights feature 2 dinner entrées with soup or salad for $30. The Placida Grill is not just an establishment to visit while in the area. This eatery is worth a drive. With 9 beer taps and 4 or 5 of them rotating, there is always something new to try. IPA’s and other craft beers are the focus. A modest but interesting wine menu with some well-priced bottles are sure to please. It is truly a gem of Placida. Before you leave, make sure to end your meal with the Madagascar vanilla bean crème brulee with just one spoon.
Image by Candace Wright
Image by Candace Wright
6800 Placida Rd Englewood, FL 34224
(941) 828-1437 www.PlacidaGrill.com THE SAND DOLLAR | 23
Creative Classes
Year-Round Classes in Fine Arts, Crafts & Much, Much More!
Set your Creativity Free! Acrylics Beaded Jewelry Fused & Stained Glass Mosaics Chalk Painting Pastels & Drawing Sea Glass Jewelry Shell Art Decor Watercolors Wire Wrapping
Stop by or call for a complete schedule! New students are always excepted, & teachers are always welcome! Located next to Creative Framing in the Holiday Center in Venice!
2357 S. Tamiami Trail • Venice, Florida 34293
941-493-2276
https://www.facebook.com/CreativeFramingGiftGalleryLLC 24 | THE SAND DOLLAR
Complete Custom Framing using all Conservation Materials ~ Since 1982 ~
Shadow Boxes
Jewelry
Shell Art
1000’s of Frames
Creative Classes Available! - See Article on pg 24 for more info!
FLORIDA MANATEE M
anatees are large, aquatic mammals that feed on more than 60 species of plants including turtle grass, manatee grass, shoal grass, mangrove leaves, various algae, water hyacinth, acorns and hydrilla. Also known as "sea cows," these herbivores usually spend up to eight hours a day grazing on seagrass and other aquatic plants. A manatee can consume up to 10 percent of its 26 | THE SAND DOLLAR
Contributed by the FWC
body weight in aquatic vegetation daily. The manatee uses its muscular lips to grab and tear plants much like an elephant uses its trunk to pick up items. Manatees consume freshwater and marine plants of all kinds. A manatee uses its flippers and tail to steer itself through the water and moves its tail up and down to propel itself forward. Manatees are quite agile in the water. They can swim upside down, roll, do somersaults or move vertically in the water.
Like other mammals, manatees breathe air. They must surface approximately every five minutes to breathe, but can hold their breath for as long as twenty minutes when resting. The manatee's nose is usually the only part of its body that comes out of the water when it breathes. Manatees rest from 2 to 12 hours a day either suspended near the water's surface or lying on the bottom, usually for several hours at a time. Manatees reach sexual maturity in 3-5 years (females) and 5-7 years (males) and may live over 60 years in controlled environments. Gestation is approximately 13 months and usually one calf is born. The calf may stay with the cow for up to 2 years. Male manatees (bulls) are not part of the family unit. Bulls will leave a female alone after her breeding period is over. Of the wild manatees that reach adulthood, only about half are expected to survive into their early 20s.
Anatomy facts and trivia:
• A manatee can move each side of its lip pads independently. This flexibility allows the manatee to "grab" aquatic plants and draw them into its mouth. • Manatees do not have eyelashes. Their eye muscles close in a circular motion, much like an aperture on a camera. They have a lid-like membrane (called a nictitating membrane) that closes over their eyes for protection when they are under water. • Manatees can hear very well despite the absence of external ear lobes. • A manatee's heart beats at a rate of 50 to 60 beats a minute. The heart rate slows down to 30 beats a minute during a long dive. • Manatees have no "biting" teeth, only "grinding" teeth. A manatee's teeth (all molars) are constantly being replaced. New teeth come in at the back of the jaw and move forward about a centimeter a month. The front molars eventually fall out and are replaced by the teeth behind them. This tooth replacement is an adaptation to the manatee's diet, as it consumes plants that often hold sand that can wear down its teeth. • Manatees have only six cervical (neck) vertebrae. Most other mammals, including giraffes, have seven. As a result, manatees cannot turn their heads sideways; they must turn their whole body around to look behind them. • The manatee's rib bones are solid, there is no marrow. They make red blood cells in their sternum where marrow is found. THE SAND DOLLAR | 27
Florida Manatee cont. • The manatee has pelvic bones, but they are not attached to its skeletal frame and are fairly small. They are remnants of a time when manatees lived on land. The bones are found in a cartilage tissue area of the body in the vicinity of the reproductive organs and the urinary bladder. The bones are soft when the manatee is young and later harden as they mature. • Other remnant bones found in the manatee are the hyoid bones located near the neck region. These bones are similar to the Adam's apple in humans. Today, there is no known use of these bones in the manatee. • The manatee's lungs lie along its backbone instead of along its rib cage as is found in most mammals. The lungs are long (1 meter or more in adults), wide (20 cm), and thin (5 cm or less). Besides breathing, the lungs help the manatee with buoyancy control. • The bones in a manatee's flipper are similar to a human hand. The jointed "finger bones" of the flipper help the manatee move through the water, bring food to its mouth, and hold objects. Three or four nails are found at the end of each flipper.
Viewing Guidelines:
• Look, but don't touch manatees. Also, don't feed manatees or give them water. If manatees become accustomed to being around people, they can alter their behavior in the wild, perhaps causing them to lose their natural fear of boats and humans, which may make them more susceptible to harm. Passive observation is the best way to interact with manatees and all wildlife. • Do not pursue or chase a manatee if you see one while you are swimming, snorkeling, diving or operating a boat.
to snag, hook, hold, grab, pinch or ride a manatee. • Avoid excessive noise and splashing if a manatee appears in your swimming area. • Use snorkel gear when attempting to watch manatees. The sound of bubbles from SCUBA gear may cause manatees to leave the area. • Float at the surface of the water to passively observe the manatees. Remember, look, but don't touch.
Manatees are difficult to see, especially when moving in a boat on the water. Observations may include a swirl on the surface caused by the manatee when diving; seeing the animals back, snout, tail, or flipper break the surface of the water; or hearing it when it surfaces to breathe.
A SHARPER IMAGE
Yard Care • Mowing Power Washing • Painting Car/Boat Detailing • Repairs
YOU NAME IT!
Sit Back & Enjoy
• Never poke, prod or stab a manatee with your hands, feet or any object. • If a manatee avoids you, you should avoid it. • Give manatees space to move. Don't isolate or single out an individual manatee from its group, and don't separate a cow and her calf. • Keep hands and objects to yourself. Don't attempt 28 | THE SAND DOLLAR
Lead Me To It & Watch Me Do It!
Clayton Randall 860.712.7642 or 941.474.2587 clayton.randall80@yahoo.com
HAND CRAFTED FURNITURE
BY YOUR DESIGN
RB 29003189
REMODELS ADDITIONS CABINETS FLOORING & TRIM
941-376-0552 markreedbuilders@comcast.net
Over 30 Years of Carpentry Experience
INTERIOR & EXTERIOR PAINTING ELECTRICAL PLUMBING POWERWASHING FULL LAWN CARE SERVICE SOUTHWEST FLORIDA’S GO-TO GUY
Sidney Welch OWNER
614-940-0848 sidnwelch92@gmail.com
THE SAND DOLLAR | 29
Stump PasS our Little Slice of Heaven Story & Photography By Deana Camerlingo
A
favorite place among Englewood locals during a hot summer’s day is Stump Pass Beach State Park. Down at the end of Ski Alley is a sand bar where boaters, kayakers, paddle boarders, shellers and hikers all come together. Tourists and locals alike share no pretensions here. It’s a weekend tradition of festivities. It’s an area where you can casually steer your craft into an empty spot, and strangers will come up and offer a hand for your anchor. It is a very special place and is held very dear to all of us. The locals here love to share our piece of paradise with others. After all, this is our home, and this is how we’re fortunate enough to spend our weekends. It is a place we are 30 | THE SAND DOLLAR
rightfully proud of. Sunday is the prime day of the week with the most boaters anchoring all along Stump Pass and Rag Alley. There are outdoor furniture set-ups in the water on the sandbar, complete with barbeques. Once in a while, when the tide is lower and the sandbar’s exposed, a volleyball net might spring up or maybe a game of bean bag toss. If you’re lucky, you’ll find some local gymnasts from Lemon Bay High holding a handstand competition. That’s truly an amazing sight; gymnastics with a backdrop of tropical blue water. There is no place like Stump Pass in the world. Stump Pass is an unusual name. Why is it called that? Well, there’s a pretty nifty piece of history here. Stump Pass is comprised of three barrier islands:
Manasota Key, Peterson Island and Whidden Key. There is, notably, a bunch of tree stumps here. These trees were once Australian Pines. They were planted long ago as a navigational tool by seafarers to guide themselves along the gulf coast. They were the tallest of trees and easy to see. As instrumental as they were for navigation, they, unfortunately, were also invasive. Many people condemned the removal of these trees, but science does not lie. The root systems of Australian Pines did not contribute to our native species of plants. They displace mangroves and their natural deep-rooted vegetation, causing erosion. That often ruins beach vegetation which provides a habitat plants and animals. All of the vegetation in Stump Pass Beach State Park was threatened and endangered. The removal of these trees was necessary, because these pines were from Australia
THE SAND DOLLAR | 31
and not native to Florida. It’s because of their invasive quality. They even interfered with our protected sea turtle’s abilities to construct coastal nests. After the removal of the Australian Pine, the native plants were able to flourish once more in the park. We need to protect what we have here. This is Florida, and the species that are here have been around for millennia. We are proud, protective and conscious. Although we are often seen having fun on our favorite sandbar, we have a deep care and respect for the area we inhabit, as well as the history behind it. Find us on the map. Come visit. There is so much we have to show you.
32| THE SAND DOLLAR
Stump Pass State Park Info: Address: 900 Gulf Blvd., Englewood, FL 34223 Area: 245 acres Hours: 8:00 am – 5:00 pm Phone: (941) 964-0375 Management: Florida Department of Environmental Protection
533 Paul Morris Dr Englewood, FL 34223
(941) 473-DOCK (3625) `
Your Local Marine Contracting Professional CGC 1506904
Docks • Seawalls • Boatlift Permitting • Free Estimates
www.InnovativeMarineFl.com THE SAND DOLLAR | 33
SUP ENGLEWOO Paddling For Pu Images and Article by Nicole Meirs, Owner of SUP Englewood
OD urpose
W
hy do people paddle board? Most people love the many benefits, physical fitness, being with nature, enjoying the outdoors, learning a new sport. I paddle to share my passion of Stand Up Paddling with other people. SUP Englewood was founded with that love and passion for the sport. Sharing SUP and watching people light up as they stand up for the first time brings me joy. Last year I introduced Stand Up Paddle to our local Special Olympics in Sarasota and Charlotte Counties. Special Olympics is a sports program for children and adults with intellectual disabilities. In Florida the services are free for registered athletes. Their mission is to provide various Olympic-type sports throughout the year. Coaching local athletes in the Stand Up Paddle Special Olympics is an incredible experience. I’m blessed to work with amazing volunteers that have signed up to support Special Olympic Athletes. Our team of volunteers consists of paddlers with huge hearts and kind spirits. Parents and family members that paddle are also volunteers in the program. For example, my mom is a volunteer as well as a speech and language pathologist. Communication is key in teaching and learning. She aids in team building and activities to build verbal communication. Our group of volunteers shares more than paddle boarding with the athletes. We share knowledge and experiences. This season we have a range of abilities in the training program as new athletes have joined the team. Beginners on the team are starting the journey to stand up paddle. As we coach them, every small step is celebrated and encouraged. There is an immense amount of responsibility in this role. Every athlete is assigned a volunteer on the water for a one on one ratio. Water training for volunteers is critical and includes paddle boarding skills, rescue techniques and basic lifeguarding. Two American Red Cross Certified Lifeguards are provided by SUP Englewood for the athletes SUP practices. Every Sunday morning SUP Englewood shuts down, and all equipment is used to run a training program on Stump Pass Beach. Providing the equipment is only a piece of making these trainings come together. Everyone involved is open to learning, and we’re all advancing together. Volunteers paddle boarding skills improve at every practice as their constantly being challenged in different paddling situations. The athlete’s progress is assessed on an individual basis at every practice. Discussions are held, and strategies are organized to ensure improvement at every session. Through paddle boarding, many other goals can be reached. Enhancing communication improves social skills, allowing for friendships and team THE SAND DOLLAR | 35
Paddling For Purpose building activities. Independent skills are practiced during each training session. These skills can be applied to their activities of daily living across settings. Thom Olszac, one of the volunteers turned to me at the last practice and said “I’m here to learn.” It was such a powerful statement and it struck me in that moment how much volunteers are learning with the athletes. For some, it is their first time working with children and adults with special needs. Volunteers are learning how to teach, modify activities for ability levels and communicate in different ways. I am honored to work with all of the volunteers in the program. They have taken on a role of learning, teaching, paddling and creating fun memories for every athlete involved in the program. As the area's Head SUP Coach, it is my role to host successful trainings educating the volunteers and athletes along the way. I am still learning, too, through these trainings. Every practice becomes smoother as I refine exercises, take in feedback from our team and learn the best methods of instructing. This year our athletes look forward to racing locally. It is my responsibility to make sure that every athlete is ready for a competition. I encourage the community to come out to our trainings and cheer on the athletes as they practice. Trainings are held every Sunday at Stump Pass Beach State Park from 8:00-10:00AM. 36 | THE SAND DOLLAR
Continued
SUP Englewood 1271 Beach Rd, Englewood, FL 34223 www.SUPEnglewood.com 941-234-4311
THE SAND DOLLAR | 37
Let’s Go Fishing!
Images and Article by Mallory Herzog of Fishin' Franks
If your new to the area or new to fishing, Fishin’ Franks in Port Charlotte offers a fishing seminar on various topics at Luigi’s Italian Restaurant. These are hosted by Fishin’ Frank, himself, Robert & Captain Cayle. They meet the 2nd Tuesday & Wednesday of each month at 6:30 pm. Tuesday night is reserved seating, and Wednesday is open seating. To make a reservation, call 941-625-3888 Learn from the best!
Pictured: Angler Caitlyn LaLande and Paige Ward
S
ummer across south west Florida is upon us! It’s no secret that the water, and the fishing is heating up pretty quickly! One of the biggest game fish in our area is tarpon. These fish range from 50-150 lbs and pack in our local passes and beaches before their journey offshore to spawn. They are incredibly fun to catch and release, due to their size and the amazing visual display they put on as they sky out of the water trying to shake free of your fishing line! Bait of choice for these guys are small "tarpon crabs, small mullet and even large shrimp, all sold at local bait shops! Tarpon arrive in mid-May and stay in large numbers though 38 | THE SAND DOLLAR
June and thin out through summer. Tarpon fishing is very diverse in the way that you are able to catch them from land piers and bridges as well as out on your boat. Make sure you’re up to speed on the latest tarpon regulations if you intend to use a jig with them. They are now banned in some areas. Of course with the tarpon come the sharks. This year I have really seen an increase in land based shark fishing along our local beaches. If you are unfamiliar with this sport, it could be a bit shocking to see a group of kids bring in a 7-8 foot shark at sunset after you have been swimming all day. These fishermen paddle their baits in a kayak 100-400 yards off the beach in
Pictured: Mallory Herzog - Catch and Release!
hopes to hook up with one of these toothy critters. Most shark fishermen use common sense and avoid fishing beaches with swimmers and fish during dusk to early morning. This is the most common time when sharks hunt and are naturally swimming along our beaches. If you decide to go for a night swim, you will more than likely be sharing the water with these guys. Most sharks do not want anything to do with humans. I have seen them in the day time go out of their way to avoid groups of swimmers and the swimmers being completely unaware the shark was near. Sharks are an important part of our oceans. It’s wonderful to see them in such great numbers this year. The local “sharkers” are playing a key role in the
NOAA Cooperative shark tagging apex predator program. This is a volunteer program that tracks the migration and growth of various species of sharks along the eastern sea board. Volunteers tag sharks and gather information such as length, girth, sex, etc. and snapping a quick picture before returning the shark to the sea. Anyone can be a part of this program. This year we have seen an increase in various species that have been recently protected in the last 5 years, tiger sharks and lemon sharks being two. The biggest sharks we have in the area, currently, are the bull sharks growing to around 9-10 feet and, of course, the greater hammerhead which grow to be 14+ feet. Most of these sharks are females coming in to give birth in a THE SAND DOLLAR | 39
LET'S GO FISHING! "safe" area where their young would have the best rate of survival vs. being born offshore with less food and shelter. Our shorelines are filling with bait. Glass minnow's appearing as the sun rises. Green backs and pin fish make wonderful bait for a nice afternoon with your spinning pole on Englewood Beach. The snook have started running the beaches every morning and evening. These are great to sight cast with a live bait or your favorite lure. Larger flounder are feeding on shrimp and green backs. They have also been hitting the lighter color gulp baits. Large schools of jacks in lemon bay are also a great way to spend your morning! They really put on a show, and you can’t miss them making a commotion when they are all charged up. You can throw any lure in the middle of a feeding school, and have a great fight! Now is a great time to get out there and enjoy our wonderful beaches and back water bay areas that we are so lucky enough to have in our own back yards.
CONTINUED
If you’re new to fishing and looking to gain more information, Fishin’ Franks in Port Charlotte holds fishing club meetings the second week of each month on various topics, offering hands on instructions and answering all your questions! Limited seating available. Call ahead for your spot and the topic of the week!
Fishin' Franks 4425 Tamiami Trail Charlotte Harbor, FL 33980 (941) 625-3888 www.FishinFranks.com
European Auto Repairs Foreign & Domestic Full Service Garage
RON TAYLOR
151 W. Perry Lane Englewood, Fl
941.474.2831
Email: europeanautorepairs@verizon.net 40 | THE SAND DOLLAR
All Work Guaranteed
Your New England Seafood Connection
N
ortherners Rejoice! Twin Lobsters located on Placida Road in Englewood has brought your favorite seafood and shellfish to your backyard. Skip the plane ticket and have a Downeast Feast or Clam Boil right here. Since Joe Scola started commercial fishing with his father at the age of 15, he has fished from Georges Banks to the Bering Sea of Alaska on boats from 30 feet to 300 feet. After 30 odd years on the ocean, he stepped onto the wharf to get into 15 years of buying lobsters and selling bait. Now, those years of friendships and wholesale contacts are instrumental in the success of Twin Lobsters. Come in and see the HUGE display of Maine lobsters ranging in size from 1 to even 10 pounders. Are you a little afraid? The Scolas will cook them for you, your family or your club. They will help with ticket pricing and the details of special event planning. If you are not from New England, they also stock favorites from the Great Lakes like smelts, walleye and Lake Perch. Gulf Shrimp, oysters and grouper will please those who prefer local fare. Hard to find items include
Writen by Deana Camerlingo
quahogs, octopus, New England style hot dog buns and even natural casing hot dogs as well. Owner, Nancy Scola, says, "We hope you'll come in for our homemade “chowdah� or just to say hi!"
2700 Placida Rd. Englewood, FL 34224 (941) 698-8946 www.twinlobster.com
Nancy Scola, owner
THE SAND DOLLAR | 38
TENNIS IN CHARLO CHARLOTTE COUN COUNTY by Will Wrigley
T
racquet and a can of balls has not gone up in over 30 years. ennis is making a huge Due to the economy and comeback in the U.S.A. unemployment rate, many people Participation is the greatest it has are choosing recreation to pass their ever been, since it experienced its time. Tennis is the most aerobic height in the 1970's. exercise next to swimming. We owe this to the grassroots The best way to start would movement (i.e. public parks and be to take lessons. Lessons are the schools program), increased available at the following facilities population and construction of in Charlotte County by USPTA more public tennis facilities. certified pros: It is a relatively inexpensive sport to pick up. For less than $50, you can • Englewood Tennis Club - 2280 get started with a racquet and a can Englewood Rd. (941) 698-467 of balls. The price of a performance 42 | THE SAND DOLLAR
• Jacaranda West Country Club 1901 Jacaranda Blvd, Venice (941) 493-5010 • Edison College - 26300 Airport Rd., Punta Gorda (941) 637-5629 • Vivante - 2950 West Marion Ave., Punta Gorda (941) 833-8999 • Twin Isles - 301 Madrid Blvd., Punta Gorda (941) 637-1232 • Punta Gorda Club - 2905 Tamiami Trail, Punta Gorda (941) 505-0999
• Franz Ross Park - 19333 Quesada Ave, Port Charlotte (941) 629-9622 • Harold Avenue Park - 23400 Harold Ave, Port Charlotte (941) 627-1074 • Tringali Park - 3460 N Access Rd, Englewood (941) 681-3742 • Seminole Lakes - 26200 Stillwater Circle, Punta Gorda (941) 639-5440 • Isles Yacht Club - 1780 West Marion Ave., Punta Gorda (941) 639-7551 If you're not ready for lessons and just want to hit the ball around, there is a multitude of free public facilities available. Here is a list of public courts within the county:
• Bissett Park -12455 Path Ave., Punta Gorda
• Rotonda Park - 100 Rotonda Blvd., E. Rotonda West
• Deep Creek Park - 25555 Sandhill Blvd., Punta Gorda
• South County Regional Park 670 Cooper St., Punta Gorda
• Franz Ross Park - 19355 Quesada Blvd., Port Charlotte
• South Punta Gorda Heights Park 11040 Pinetrail Rd., Punta Gorda,
• Harbour Heights Park - 27420 Voyageur Dr.,Punta Gorda
• Sunrise Park - 20499 Edgewater Dr., Port Charlotte
• Harold Avenue Park - 23400 Harold Ave., Port Charlotte
• Tringali Park - 3460 N. Access Rd., Englewood
• McGuire Park - 21125 McGuire Ave., Port Charlotte • Midway Park - 23023 Midway Blvd.,Port Charlotte • Oyster Creek Regional Park 6791 San Casa Dr., Englewood
If you would like your facility listed in the next article/issue, please call (941) 637-1487
• Port Charlotte Beach Park 4500 Harbor Blvd., Port Charlotte
THE SAND DOLLAR | 43
941GallowayRoofing.com
Lic #: CCC1328485
HURRICANE SEASON IS UPON US Protect Your Home & Family Article & Images by Renee Gallaway
H
urricane season is here. Are you and your family prepared? Is your roof stable enough to withstand high winds? It won’t take a hurricane with winds in excess of 75 MPH or stronger to begin ripping up asphalt shingles, tossing around clay shingles and peeling back metal roof panels like a sheet of paper. A mere 30 MPH winds can begin this process. If your home is current with your counties building codes with impact-resistant winOwner, Dave Galloway dows, hurricane shutters, hurricane roof straps, reinforced gable ends, repaired trusses and beams then there is a good chance your home will withstand a hurricane and should keep your roof intact. However, the first 44 | THE SAND DOLLAR
thing that will go on your home under a hurricane or strong winds is your roof! Has your roof been inspected this past year? If not, I would highly recommend having a qualified, licensed and insured roofing contractor like Galloway Roofing come out and inspect, service and make any necessary repairs to your home’s roof that are needed prior to a hurricane. This will not only keep you honest with your homeowners insurance company to prove you did everything possible to prepare your roof from possible leaks, mold or failure, but it will also keep you dry! Keeping your family safe should be your number one priority. Owner, Dave Galloway, and his highly qualified roofing team are experienced and certified as well as educated in Florida State building roof codes. Your roof, new or old, requires hurricane straps which are metal straps used to hold the roof frame to the walls of your house. You can find them where the trusses meet the walls. Reinforced wood gable ends are connected to 2 by 4's to trusses and roof beams to provide your roof with greater strength against high winds. Any trusses and beams should be repaired or replaced if they have
any imperfections such as cracks, water damage, insect damage or wide knots. These areas, if damaged , can cause your roof great damage and lead to losing your entire roof in a hurricane of great strength. Replacing loose or cracked tiles and shingles and adding missing shingles should be done now, before hurricane season begins. You may need a licensed general contractor for structural concerns. They said Hurricane Charlie would miss us on August 14th, 2004, but it left southwest Florida in ruins. It did hit and hit hard! The hardest hit areas were Cayo Costa, Captiva, Boca Grande, Punta Gorda, Port Charlotte, Englewood, Rotonda and South Gulf Cove. Numerous houses sustained extensive roof damage. The relentless Charlie devastated Southwest Florida, causing 14.6 billion dollars in property damage on the peninsula region of Florida alone! Let’s hope for a safe 2014 hurricane season so that our family, friends and neighbors will be safe, and our homes will remain in pristine condition. But, please, contact our office 697-3737 to get on our “Hurricane Contact List.” Don’t wait until it’s too late…Call or email david@ GallowayRoofing.com for a free roof quote today!
Dave and Renee Galloway take pride in their name and their community. Galloway Roofing now employees 13 people and are growing strong thanks to the hard work and dedication from our business family.
• Free Consultations • Award-winning Service • Guaranteed Satisfaction
Galloway Roofing, LLC 7253 Gasparilla Rd. Unit 1 Port Charlotte, FL 33981 941-697-3737
Palm Island Metal Roof THE SAND DOLLAR | 45
SUNDAY
FUNDAY
Power House Lisa Hamlin’s
941-575-1717
THE REALTOR YOU CAN REACH 7 DAYS A WEEK!
12946 SW DAVID DR. Beautiful 3 bedroom, 2 bath home in the amazing neighborhood of Lake Suzy located directly across the street from Kings Way Country Club . This home has all tile oors with a brand new kitchenincluding granite countertops and stainless steel appliances. Pool area has a 20 foot waterfall, the most relaxing home in the neighborhood. Overlooking a huge lake. This home is a must see! Call today for a private showing. PRICE REDUCED! $249,000
Rolls Landing Condo - Beautiful 2 bedroom, 2 bath condo in gated community. Very active community. Pool, tennis courts, hot tub. Tiki bar, 300 ft dock on the Peace River. $99,000.
OUR NEWEST ADDITIONS TO THE POWERHOUSE! Bob Helphenstine
Samantha Hamlin
941-661-4842
941-623-7419
www.BobsListings.com
samanthahamlin92@gmail.com
bobhelp4@yahoo.com
If you looking to BUY or SELL a home, we would love the chance to "EARN" your business. ANYTHING YOU FIND, WE CAN SHOW ANY DAY, ANY TIME. WE WORK AROUND YOUR SCHEDULE, AND WE ANSWER OUR PHONES 24 HOURS A DAY! CALL TODAY FOR A PRIVATE SHOWING! 941-575-1717 Email: lisapowerhouse@gmail.com