Clearwater Beach

Restaurant Week on Clearwater Beach May 8-14

2011-02-26T15:53:00.000-05:00

About 25 restaurants have signed on so far to participate in Clearwater Beach Restaurant Week. These restaurants will offer $15 to $35 item menus May 8 -14.

The city of Clearwater and Clearwater Beaches Chamber of Commerce are sponsoring the event.

A kickoff event is scheduled May 6 from 5 p.m. to 8 p.m. on the east side of Beach Walk adjacent to the Hyatt Regency Clearwater Beach Resort & Spa. The kickoff will include tasting from each participating restaurant, an art walk and a concert.

Read more at http://www.clearwaterbeachrestaurantweek.com/

Sunsets at Pier 60

2011-02-16T09:55:00.000-05:00

Sunset Cinema at Pier 60 - Come and enjoy family fun and FREE movies in Pier 60 Park (movies start at dusk weather permitting). The Muppet Movie will be shown on Friday, Feb. 18th, and Mamma Mia will be shown on Saturday, Feb. 19th. Bring blankets or lawn chairs - popcorn & drink available. www.sunsetsatpier60.com

Jolley Trolley

2011-02-02T16:04:00.001-05:00

How much does it cost to ride the Jolley Trolley?

$4.50 for an unlimited ride pass, $2.25 for a senior (65 years and older); Exact Change Required.

Can I use my Jolley Trolley pass on the County bus (PSTA)?

Yes, our passes are interchangeable; you can use your pass throughout Pinellas County.

What days of the week does the Coastal Route operate?

Friday and Saturdays from 10:00AM- Midnight and Sundays from 10:00AM - 10:00PM.

Can the Jolley Trolley handle a wheel chair passenger?

Yes, all of our trolleys are wheel chair equipped and can accommodate two wheel chairs at a time.

Can I take my bicycle on the Jolley Trolley?

Yes, the Jolley Trolley can accommodate two, two wheel bicycles on the front of the trolley at a time.

Is there an extra charge to take my bicycle on the Jolley Trolley?

No, it is complementary.

Can I take my dog on the Jolley Trolley?

As with all public transportation, only service animals are allowed on the Jolley Trolley.

Can I bring an open container of alcohol on the Jolley Trolley?

No, since we are public transportation we adhere to the law and prohibit open containers of alcohol.

Where can I get on the Jolley Trolley?

The Jolley Trolley shares most of the designated stops with the PSTA, just look for our sign posted at their stops. The Jolley Trolley drivers will also stop anywhere on route, just be sure that he sees you and that you are in an area that is safe to stop.

Foster Grant Ironman

2010-11-10T14:34:00.001-05:00

The Foster Grant Ironman World Championship 70.3, Presented by Ford, will impact Pinellas County traffic on race day, Saturday, Nov. 13. Lane and road closures will start at 5 a.m. throughout the county. Clearwater Beach road closures will begin at 3 a.m., and drivers will not be permitted to travel south of the roundabout due to closures on Coronado Drive and South Gulfview Boulevard.
Clearwater Beach Traffic Impact - Because a majority of the event takes place at Pier 60, most of South Gulfview Boulevard will be closed from Tuesday, Nov. 9, to Monday, Nov. 15, and Coronado Drive will be closed from the Clearwater Beach roundabout to Devon Drive starting at 3 a.m. on race day. If residents need to leave the beach on race day, they should plan to leave the before 7 a.m. to avoid the traffic impacts. Between 7 and 9 a.m., north beach residents will have limited access to the roundabout. South beach residents and those needing access to and from south beach after 3 a.m. will need to use the Belleair Causeway.
The broadcast of the 2010 Foster Grant Ironman World Championship 70.3 will air on NBC. Date and time are TBD. Check your local listings and stay tuned to www.ironman.com for further details. More information, including maps of the route, can be found at www.myclearwater.com/ironman or by calling the hotline at (727) 562-INFO (4636).

Stone Crab Block Party

2010-10-20T14:46:00.000-04:00

Once again Frenchy's Clearwater Beach will host their 26th Stone Crab Block Party in front of the Original Frenchy's Café (41 Baymont St., Clearwater Beach) on October 22nd & 23rd from 11:00 AM - 11:00 PM. They will be offering Stone Crab Claws at wholesale prices, as well as other food and drink specials along with live entertainment through out the two days. So enjoy the good food, good music and good times.

When the weekend is over don't forget to visit us again or go online to purchase fresh stone crabs right to your door at www.frenchysstonecrab.com .

Movie Night at the Pier

2010-09-22T10:07:00.000-04:00

Sunset Cinema at Pier 60 - Come and enjoy family fun and Free movies in Pier 60 Park. "Flipper" will show on Friday, September 24th, and the movie, "The Bounty Hunter", will show on Saturday, September 25th, (movies start at dusk). Bring blankets or low lawn chairs. Sunsets at Pier 60 Daily Festival. Call 727-449-1036 or visit www.sunsetsatpier60.com.

Clearwater Beach Upcoming Events

2010-06-29T17:51:00.002-04:00

July 4th - Clearwater Celebrates America at Coachman Park in Downtown Clearwater with music, food, games for kids, and of course fireworks.
August 28th - I Like it Hot! Festival in Largo will have hot & fiery foods and sauces to sample and purchase. Enter the Hot Pepper eating contest if you dare.

May 1st to September 25th - Rays Summer Concert Series is back for every Saturday home post game at Tropicana Field. Acts include ZZ Top, Hall and Oats, Adam Lambert and many more.

July 2nd - Summer Blues Bash in Downtown Dunedin's Pioneer Park hosted by the Tampa Bay Blues Brothers and will benefit the Suncoast Seabird Sanctuary in Indian Shores.

July 19th - Tampa Bay Job & Career Fair held at the St Pete Times Forum in Downtown Tampa.

July 23rd - Vans Warped Tour at Vinoy Park in Downtown St Pete will host dozens of bands in this open air venue.

July 28th - Dave Matthews Band in the Amphitheater at the Florida State Fairgrounds.

August 4th - American Idol Live at the St Pete Times Forum features the the top 10 contestants from Season 9.

Fourth of July on Clearwater Beach

2010-06-17T14:41:00.000-04:00

CLEARWATER, Fla. - Clearwater Celebrates America, the city’s annual Independence Day celebration, will take place Sunday, July 4 in Coachman Park, 301 Drew St. The festival is free and will feature the Mostly Pops Orchestra with John, Mary K. and Paul Wilson, fireworks, children’s activities, a craft show, food and drink concessions. Gates will open at 4 p.m. The Mostly Pops Orchestra begins at 7:30 p.m., followed by fireworks at 9:30 p.m.

The Memorial Causeway Bridge will be closed from approximately 9:15 to 10:15 p.m. for the fireworks. Expect traffic delays as a result of the bridge closure and downtown traffic congestion. Traffic that would normally use Fort Harrison Avenue and Myrtle Avenue during this time period is encouraged to consider alternative routes, such as Missouri Avenue, Highland Avenue, and Keene Road. Belleair Causeway can also be used to travel to and from the beach.

No alcoholic beverages, glass containers or bottles, umbrellas, canopies, throwing objects, pets or personal fireworks allowed. For more information, call (727) 562-4700.

Family Movie Night on Clearwater Beach

2010-06-09T09:19:00.001-04:00

We are proud to announce in partnership with the City of Clearwater's Parks and Recreation department, Sunset Cinema at Pier 60!
The Sunset's at Pier 60 Daily Festival will be offering another free form of family oriented entertainment during the Summer months of June, July & August. Free movies will take place on the lawn area on Friday & Saturday evenings, following sunset. Guests of the festival are being encouraged to bring a beach towel, blanket, or low lawn chair. One movie will show per evening, weather permitting.

Our tentative scheduled launch date is this Friday June 11th & 12th. We are considering this a "soft opening" and will begin our advertising campaign shortly thereafter. See a sunset, catch at movie at the Sunset's at Pier 60 Daily Festival on Clearwater Beach! For more information please contact the Sunset's at Pier 60 voice mail at 727-449-1036.

Ironman

2010-06-04T19:55:00.001-04:00

The 2009 Foster Grant Ironman World Championship 70.3, presented by Ford, was a culmination of more than 30 global Ironman 70.3 events. More than 1,500 athletes from 57 countries participated in a 1.2-mile swim, 56-mile bike and 13.1-mile run on Saturday, Nov. 14, 2009. More than 90,000 athletes vie for slots to participate in the event each year.

Mark your calendars now for the 2010 Ironman World Championship 70.3. The race will be held on Saturday, Nov. 13, 2010.

For more information about the Ironman 70.3 series, visit www.ironman.com/ironman70.3. For more information about the next Ironman World Championship 70.3 on Nov. 13, visit www.myclearwater.com/ironman.

Beach Days - June 27

2010-06-02T13:08:00.002-04:00

June 27th Beach Days Appreciation Day for the Tampa Bay Rays!

Beach Night

2010-05-18T14:22:00.002-04:00

Check out Restaurant Week on Clearwater Beach

2010-05-13T18:38:00.001-04:00

Restaurant week in Clearwater Beach. Check it out!

Louisiana Oil Update

2010-05-05T19:00:00.001-04:00

Visit St. Petersburg.com

Clearwater to Host 57th Annual Fun 'n Sun Festival

2010-04-09T17:14:00.001-04:00

CLEARWATER, Fla. - Clearwater is celebrating the 57th year of the Fun 'n Sun Festival. This year's 10-day festival will take place April 23 through May 2. There are activities for both residents and visitors to enjoy. The featured events that take place during the festival are a variety of concerts including, the 15th Annual WSJT Smooth Jazz Fest, the WQYK Fun 'n Sun Toyota Country Concert and the Q105 Fun 'n Sun Toyota Rocks the Park Concert.

The line-up of events includes:

Friday, April 23

Fourth Friday
FREE admission
5:30 to 8:30 p.m., www.4thFridayClearwater.com
Cleveland St., between East and Fort Harrison avenues, Downtown Clearwater
A street party in Downtown Clearwater with kid friendly games, more than 60 exhibitors, food and drinks. Music by JuFraLa and The Twilights.

Saturday, April 24

Hospice Beach Stroll
FREE admission; collecting pledges
9 a.m. with registration beginning at 8 a.m., 523-3420
Palm Pavilion, 18 Bay Esplanade
Join in this Saturday morning Clearwater Beach pledge walk to help benefit the local Hospice.

WSJT 15th Annual Smooth Jazz Fest
FREE admission, $20 reserved seating tickets available at www.ticketmaster.com/$25 day of show.
Gates: 1:30 p.m., Show: 2:30 p.m., www.wsjt.com, 562-4700
Coachman Park, 301 Drew St.
Bring your lawn chair or blanket for a day of great music. Featuring Oleta Adams, Spencer Day, Jessy J, and B.K. Jackson. The event will include vendors, food and drink concessions and a kids play area.

Sunday, April 25

WQYK Fun 'n Sun Toyota Country Concert
FREE admission, $20 reserved seating tickets available at www.ticketmaster.com/$25 day of show..
Gates: Noon; Show: 1 p.m., www.wqyk.com, 562-4700
Coachman Park, 301 Drew St.
Bring your lawn chair or blanket for a day of great music. Featuring Travis Tritt, Darryl Worley, Blackberry Smoke, Burns & Poe, The Harters, and Josh Thompson. The event will include vendors, food and drink concessions and a kids play area.

Thursday, April 29

Clearwater Threshers Baseball Game and Post-Game Concert
$5 to $9 admission
Gates 5:30 p.m., Game 6:30 p.m., Concert 9:30 p.m., www.threshersbaseball.com, 467-4457
Bright House Field, 601 N. Old Coachman Rd.
Come cheer on the Clearwater Threshers, enjoy Thirsty Thursday 2-for- 1 on all drinks all night long and a concert.

Saturday, May 1

Brunch with the Birds
FREE with paid park admission, Park admission: $2 with Recreation Card, $3 without card
8 to 11 a.m., 793-2976
Moccasin Lake Nature Park, 2750 Park Trail Lane
Enjoy a morning walk throughout the park. Park staff or Clearwater Audubon Society members will guide participants to locate and identify various birds that reside in the park. After the walk, everyone is treated to a continental brunch at the park.

Clearwater Airpark Open House featuring Astronaut Nicole Stott
FREE admission
10 a.m. to 3 p.m., 443-3433
Clearwater Airpark, 1000 N. Hercules Ave.
Join us for the Clearwater Airpark's Open House and celebrate Clearwater's home town astronaut Nicole Stott. Plans include reduced rate airplane and helicopter rides, K-9 demonstration by the Clearwater Police Department, free activities for kids, and more.

Q105 Fun 'n Sun Toyota Rocks the Park Concert
FREE admission, $20 reserved seating tickets available at www.ticketmaster.com/ $25 day of show.
Gates: 1:30 p.m., Show: 2:30 p.m., www.tampabaysq105.com, 562-4700
Coachman Park, 301 Drew St.
Bring your lawn chair or blanket for a day of great music. Featuring Blue Oyster Cult, Foghat and Eddie Money. The event will include vendors, food and drink concessions and a kids play area.

Saturday, May 1 and Sunday, May 2

Talento 2010 Mural Slam
FREE admission
9 a.m. to 4 p.m., www.talento2010.com, 562-4626
Señor Bubbles, 1408 Cleveland St.
Join the Hispanic Outreach Center in creating a mural.

1st ANNUAL SAND KEY SPRING FEST

2010-04-07T14:14:00.000-04:00

The Springfest at the Shoppes at Sand Key will be held on April 17, from noon to 7 pm, sponsored by the Sand Key Civic Assoc. There will be food, wine, beer, soda, water, and entertainment.

Free jitney service to the Springfest will be provided by the Jolly Trolley for Sand Key residents. Additional parking will be available at Sand Key Park. Al "Coffee" McDaniels will provide the music. Local artists will attend, displaying their work. The Sailing Center, the Clearwater Marine Aquarium, and all of the Shoppes will be participating. The restaurants will provide food inside their premises and outside their shops. All are invited. Admission is free.

The purpose of the Springfest is to bring the community together, and celebrate the wonderful barrier island environment which is home to many of our residents.

For more information: info@Sandkeycivicassociation.com. Or call Dick Jackson 595-3575

Jolley Trolley

2010-02-25T15:18:00.001-05:00

Let Jolley Trolley Take You Out to the Ballgame!

Jolley Trolley now connects Clearwater Beach to Brighthouse Field for all Phillies home games during Spring Training.

When: March 4^th through April 1^st.

Reservations are required as seats are limited on our open air trolley! Driver Ron Goodman (from Philadelphia) says “I am a Philly Fan and always have been, we can do it again!” Of course, Ron will be your driver.

Enjoy the game. Don’t worry about traffic, parking or having a few libations while attending the game; leave the hassles to us.

The Phillies shuttle is planned to depart Clearwater Beach (depending on pick-up) between 11:15 and 11:30am.

Cost: $12 per person round trip which includes an unlimited ride Day Pass on the Jolley Trolley for your evening needs!

Reservations: Call the Jolley Trolley at 727.445.1200

Clearwater Beach Library

2010-01-08T16:16:00.000-05:00

The new Clearwater Beach Library is located at 69 Bay Esplanade Avenue, in the same building as the Clearwater Beach Recreation Center. the Library is open for business from 1pm to 5pm Monday - Friday. The Library contains a great selection of book, DVDs, music, several varieties of recorded books, newspapers, magazines, and a wonderful selection of children's books and movies.
The Library has computers with Internet access and printing capabilities. WiFi is also available for anyone who has a laptop.
www.myclearwater.com/cpi

Ironman on Clearwater Beach

2009-09-21T16:56:00.000-04:00

Ironman Modifies the 70.3 World Championship Course(Tampa, Fla.) Sept. 21, 2009 - Today, Ironman announces modifications to the 2009 Foster Grant Ironman World Championship 70.3 course. The fourth annual event, presented by Ford, takes athletes along a 1.2-mile swim, 56-mile bike and 13.1-mile run and will take place on Saturday, Nov. 14, 2009, in Clearwater, Fla.To further reduce traffic for residents and businesses along the bike course, while also offering athletes an enhanced event experience, the following changes will be implemented:.Athletes will utilize the same bike course until they reach the East Lake Corridor, located at approximately mile 23. Once on East Lake Road, athletes will continue heading northbound, traveling further north than in 2008, to Trinity Boulevard. Once they reach Trinity Boulevard, athletes will make a right turn and head east for approximately one mile to the turnaround point. .Following the turnaround point, as athletes are heading southbound on East Lake Road, they will cross the Bayside Bridge and will now turn right on Roosevelt Boulevard instead of 82nd Avenue North, as in past years. From Roosevelt Boulevard, athletes will travel west to Belcher Road where they will make a right turn and head north toward transition on the same route that was used in 2008. "The course touches various areas of the county, and our goal is to make ongoing changes that will decrease traffic impact and improve the event experience for residents, business owners, athletes and spectators," said Manager, Traffic Operations Division with the City of Clearwater, Paul Bertels. Professional athletes will compete for a $100,000 prize purse. The top 10 professional male and female finishers and each age group champion will automatically qualify for the 2010 Foster Grant Ironman World Championship 70.3, taking place on Saturday, Nov. 13, 2010. The 2008 event drew more than 1,200 athletes with 6,000 out-of-state visitors, according to research conducted by the St. Petersburg/Clearwater Area Convention & Visitors Bureau. The economic impact garnered from last year's 70.3 World Championship reached more than $5 million. Clearwater Beach and surrounding areas will also be showcased during the NBC broadcast of the event, which will air in early 2010. For event-related information and course maps, visit www.ironman.com/worldchampionship70.3. Media-related inquiries relating to Ironman 70.3 can be directed to Blair LaHaye at Blair@ironman.com or Jessica Weidensall at Jessica@ironman.com. Both may be reached at 813-868-5940. For questions related to the event and the City of Clearwater, please contact Joelle Castelli at Joelle.Castelli@myclearwater.com or log on to www.myclearwater.com/Ironman.

Jolley Trolley

2009-08-07T20:18:00.000-04:00

JOLLEY TROLLEY
Service Enhancements
The Jolley Trolley is pleased to announce immediate enhancements to their service. For reliability and ease of use, the trolley will be servicing all points at 30 minute intervals. In addition, Island Estates will now be serviced until 10:00PM extending coverage down Island Way to the 700 – 736 building.
Exciting Changes Coming October 5, 2009
· Service will be extended an extra hour throughout the route
· Single ride and day pass prices will be reduced
· Jolley Trolley passes will be good on all PSTA routes
· Through our partner (PSTA) you can connect to Downtown & South
· We will offer “Snow Bird” and “Annual Passes” at discounts

Please call us at 727-445-1200 with any questions.
Thanks for supporting the Jolley Trolley. We appreciate your business!

Clearwater Beach Parking Garage

2009-05-26T18:55:00.002-04:00

According to TampaBay.com, the Clearwater Marina is off the list for a possible parking garage.

Response from Clearwater City Council on Beach Patrol

2009-05-24T07:17:00.001-04:00

This will acknowledge and thank you for advising the Clearwater City Council of your support for the Clearwater Beach patrol police team.

That you would take time to express your thoughts on this most important issue is appreciated. As you know, the City of Clearwater is faced with having to cut at least $7-million from last fiscal year's budget. In anticipation of these cuts, the Clearwater City Council had an outside consultant conduct an efficiency study of the Clearwater Police Department. That report gave the department an excellent review, and only a few recommendations were made on how to reduce the police department's budget, the largest city expenditure. While one of those suggestions affect the Clearwater Beach patrol police team, neither the City Council nor the City manager have implemented that cut.

Still, it is important for the Clearwater City Council to have this information available to it as it seeks to balance the budget. Although I believe the beach patrol team plays a necessary role in combating and preventing crime on Clearwater Beach, I also want to know as much as possible about the impact it, and other units, have on the operations of the police department and the city's budget. As the Clearwater City Council is tasked with making these difficult budgetary decisions, I hope you concur that it is most prudent to do so.

Again, thank you for your thoughts, and with warm, personal regards, I am

Sincerely,

--george n. cretekos

george n. cretekos member, clearwater city council george.cretekos@myclearwater.com 727-562-4050

(please note that any response to this email address is considered public record and, under state statute, must be made available to all members of the city council and the press)

One in a Million Clearwater Beach

2008-12-10T21:07:00.003-05:00

I was looking at the webcam today and a one in a million picture occured. Check out the fish jumping in the picture.

Spoof Emails

2008-09-12T11:14:00.003-04:00

Everyone knows what a fake email is. I get very annoyed when I receive them so to spread the word to anyone else who gets fake emails especially concerning Ebay or Paypal, click on the forward button of the email and send the email to spoof@ebay.com or spoof@paypal.com . It may not do much, but at least it's something. As always, never click on any link inside the email.

Taste of Clearwater Event

2008-08-29T13:41:00.003-04:00

The 19th Annual Taste of Clearwater will be on Wednesday, September 17, from 5-8pm at the Harborview Center, 300 Cleveland Street in downtown Clearwater. Tickets may be purchased online at www.clearwaterflorida.org or at the following locations:
Clearwater Regional Chamber of Commerce, Main Office, 1130 Cleveland St.
Clearwater Welcome Center, 3350 Gulf to Bay Blvd. (SR 60), Clearwater
Beach Visitor Information Center, 1 Causeway Blvd., Clearwater Beach
Ruth Eckard Hall's Ticket Center
City of Clearwater Parks & Rec Center, Osceola Street
Individual prepaid tickets $18
All tickets $20 at the door

Tropical Storm Fay and Clearwater Beach

2008-08-20T09:26:00.004-04:00

It is the morning of Aug 20th and Fay is on the East Coast now. We only had twenty minutes of rain yesterday. Right now the sun is out and it is windy. The storm is expected to come west again, but so far everything is fine.

Update on Legg Mason's Proposed Cabana Club Hotel

2008-08-10T08:08:00.006-04:00

This message was posted on the bulletin board:

Click here for the online petition

Time is running out! Your emails to the city make a difference, and they must be received by Thursday, August 14th to assure that they are delivered to the decision makers on Legg Mason's application to build the 10 story high hotel at the Cabana Club Restaurant site. To provide you some ideas for your message, here are the key issues:

1. The size of the proposed building is too big for the lot because they only have 88 feet to build on and the code requires a 200 foot wide lot.

2. The height of the proposed building is too tall. The code limits them to 25 feet and building something 100 feet or 10 stories high will hurt surrounding property values.

3. There is not enough parking now. Adding a 38 room hotel but only 8 parking spaces makes the problem worse.

4. Taking 25 feet of public beach restored with taxpayers dollars should be stopped.

5. Operating a ferry boat for guests from over 450 hotel rooms on a canal where all of the properties are residential.

Send your email to the Mayor, the City Council and Sherry Watkins( who will forward them to the members of the CDB)

re: Case # FLD2008-02002 ( 1590 Gulf Blvd.) to
Frank.Hibbard@myclearwater.com
Paul.Gibson@myclearwater.com
John.Doran@myclearwater.com
George.Cretekos@myclearwater.com
Sherry.Watkins@myclearwater.com
Carlen.Petersen@myclearwater.com

Mail your letter to: Wayne Wells, Planning Dept., POBox 4748, Clearwater, FL 33767

This matter is scheduled for a public hearing and final decision before the Clearwater Community Development Board (CDB) on August 19th, 1:00pm, City Hall, 112 S. Osceola Street, Clearwater, Florida, Third Floor.

New website at http://www.mysandkey.com/

The new planned Clearwater Beach Hotel

2008-08-10T08:04:00.003-04:00

According to the St. Petersburg Times, this is the new planned Clearwater Beach hotel, time share development.

Gulf Blvd Gets Funding by County

2008-08-06T07:36:00.004-04:00

According to the Tampa Bay Newspaper, approval by Pinellas County officials will award 11 beach communitites $7 Million annually for 5 years beginning in 2010 for Gulf Blvd improvements

SpyGlass - MindFreak

2008-07-31T09:03:00.002-04:00

Last night the SpyGlass Hotel imploded. Watch the Video.
http://www.myfoxtampabay.com/myfox/pages/News/Detail?contentId=7102632&version=3&locale=EN-US&layoutCode=VSTY&pageId=3.2.1

Trying cuil.com

2008-07-28T15:43:00.002-04:00

So I tried the new search engine today, cuil.com pronounced "cool". Don't know what is cool about it. It was very slow and sluggish. I typed in Lighthouse Towers and what was produced were all the commercial sites with generic pictures. A few of my listings came up but with pictures that were not even related to my website. Two thumbs down.

Clearwater Beach Parking

2008-07-16T12:08:00.001-04:00

According to the Beach Chamber, "IF YOU THINK A PARKING GARAGE IS NEEDED ON SOUTH CLEARWATER BEACH THEN YOU NEED TO BE AT THURSDAY NIGHTS (JULY 17) COUNCIL MEETING TO SAY YOUR PIECE OR YOU MAY NEVER HAVE A CHANCE TO DO SO AGAIN.

THE CITY IS SAYING IT'S TOO EXPENSIVE TO BUY A PARCEL OF LAND AND ARE LEANING TOWARDS BUILDING ON LAND THEY ALREADY OWN.

THAT LEAVES THEM EITHER THE MARINA OR THE LOT NEXT TO THE OLD ADAMS MARK.

EACH HAS ITS' POSITIVES & NEGATIVES. BE AT THE MEETING TO LET THEM KNOW WHAT YOU THINK!"

Clearwater Marine Aquarium

2008-05-30T16:32:00.004-04:00

One of our favorite things to do when we are in Clearwater Beach is to visit the Clearwater Marine Aquarium. It's one of the best aquariums we've been to. All the exhibits are very up close. Winter is our favorite dolphin too! I was just looking at their website http://www.cmaquarium.org/cms/ and now they have a live webcam! The webcam is located at http://www.cmaquarium.org/webcam.html . What a great new feature.

Dr. Beach names Caladesi Island #1 Beach

2008-05-23T14:14:00.001-04:00

TOP 10 BEACHES 2008 according to Dr. Beach
1. Caladesi Island State Park
Clearwater/Dunedin, Florida
2. Hanalei Beach
Kauai, Hawaii
3. Siesta Beach
Sarasota, Florida
4. Coopers Beach
Southampton, New York
5. Coronado Beach
San Diego, California
6. Main Beach
East Hampton, New York
7. Hamoa Beach
Maui, Hawaii
8. Cape Hatteras
Outer Banks of North Carolina
9. Cape Florida State Park
Key Biscayne, Florida
10. Beachwalker Park
Kiawah Island, South Carolina

Clearwater April 17th Results

2008-04-23T09:21:00.001-04:00

According to Save our Shoppes , On April 17th, the Mayor and City Council members of Clearwater voted to down the increase of hotel rooms on property zoned commercial and voted to allow 110 hotel rooms per acre for property zoned tourist. What is the effect of this vote to Sand Key and Island Estates? The Shoppes on Sand Key property and commercial property on Island Estates, including the Publix shopping center, will not be as attractive to a developer for the building of hotels. The increase in hotel rooms to the Marriott and Sheraton is as follows:
Marriott = existing rooms 220 + hotel density increase 383
Sheraton =existing rooms 390 + hotel density increase 750
610 1133
Total potential hotel rooms on the north end of Sand Key: 610 + 1133 = 1743
The City Council members and Mayor assured over four hundred residents who were present at the meeting there were sufficient levels of review that would guarantee that any future development would be carefully scrutinized. In addition, representations were made that a lesser number of rooms would be approved by the City for the Marriott and Sheraton after other building criteria were met.
The SOS Committee is investigating the referendum process to repeal the action taken by the City Council and Mayor regarding the Sheraton and Marriott. No decision has been made at this time how to proceed.
The owner of the Shoppes on Sand Key has filed an appeal of the action taken by the City Council and Mayor March 20, 2008 to deny the application to zone the property tourist.
The volunteers of the SOS Committee wish to extend much appreciation to all who supported and participated in this process. We know the Mayor and City Council were sincere in trying to strike a balance between the competing interests of the residents and the expansion of the Marriott and Sheraton.
Please continue to visit this website for future developments and actions by the SOS Committee.

Time to email Mayor Hibbard...

2008-04-11T06:24:00.001-04:00

According to Mary Reinhardt of Save our Shoppes,

Dear Friends and Supporters of Our Beautiful Sand Key, It's time once again to FLOOD the Mayor and City Council with an email. We don't want them to think we've forgotten them! Email: frank.hibbard@myclearwater.com In case you haven't checked the website: www.saveourshoppes.com is a few days - check out the navigation bar - Residential Sand Key. Some incredible pictures and sound! Thanks always. You're making it happen! Mary Reinhardt

Clearwater City Council Meeting on April 17

2008-04-06T14:00:00.004-04:00

Mary Reinhardt of SOS says:

Good Morning Friends and Supporters of SOS, You are making the difference! The application to zone the property where the Shoppes on Sand Key are located was denied by the City Council on March 20th. But now, we are faced with another serious problem....the increase in hotel room density issue......and another City Council meeting on April 17, 2008. at 6pm. If the Mayor and City Council approve this increase, the result could be another hotel on the combined Marriott and Shoppes of Sand Key site; in addition, another hotel on the Sheraton. Between the two, they could be able to add an additional 1500-2000 rooms! On the south end of the island, Legg Mason is planning to add a 60 room hotel at the Cabana Club restaurant site. We will see our residential community transformed into a tourist destination. Our website at http://www.saveourshoppes.com/ has been completely revamped and contains information to keep you updated.Please check our website. We try hard to keep you fully informed as things change daily. If you have questions, please don't hesitate to ask. Island Estates now faces the same problem on possible hotels being built and we have joined together to oppose the City's efforts and to protect the "residential character" of our neighborhoods. Right now, there are three things you can do: 1. Please complete the attached petition and return it (options for return are at bottom of petition) 2. Make copies of the petition and pass around as many as possible to your friends and neighbors to sign. Ask them to pass around petitions to their friends and neighbors. 3. Plan on attending the City Council meeting on April 17th at 6pm. City Hall, 3rd Floor, 112 S. Osceola Ave. Doors open at 5pm. This issue is as important as the last because we have "won a battle but could lose the war". Time is short and your assistance is really necessary. Thank you for your continued support. Mary Reinhardt, SOS Committee

Save our Shoppes Petition or Save our Neighborhood Petition ( North end of Sand Key)

or Island Estates Petition

Clearwater Beach Ford Ironman to view

2008-03-26T11:32:00.000-04:00

The Ford IronMan 70.3 held in Clearwater last November will air on NBC April 12 from 5:00 to 6:00 p.m.
This year Foster Grant, (think Sun Glasses) a long-standing Ironman partner, will serve as title sponsor and will now be referred to as the Foster Grant Ironman World Championship 70.3. The event will take place on Nov. 8, and Foster Grant will continue its support through 2009.

Sand Key Shoppes Zoning Update March 25, 2008

2008-03-25T09:10:00.001-04:00

From: Cynthia L. Remley, Esq."

Dear Concerned Neighbors of Sand Key and fellow Save Our Neighborhood (“SON”) of Sand Key Committee members: This is a periodic update based on the best information I have concerning issues that impact Legg Mason’s attempts to build a hotel at 1590 Gulf Blvd.:

SOS (Save Our Shoppes) Opposition to Tourist Zone Application: On March 20th the City Council voted 4-1 to deny an application that requested that the Shoppes of Sand Key be zoned as “Tourist.” Previously, the Marriott Hotel had joined in on that application with the owner, Bennett. This was a victory, but there is still a lot of work to be done to get the type of Commercial Zone applied that will retain the Shoppes.
More Hotel Rooms on Sand Key and at 1590 Gulf Blvd.: Just before the hearing on March 20th, the City Council deferred a hearing until April 17th on the proposal to adopt the Pinellas Planning Council’s (PPC’s) increased hotel density code. Despite the deferral, Legg Mason’s attorney specifically asked the City Council to adopt PPC code. As you may recall, October 2007, the Pinellas Planning Council (PPC) adopted an increased hotel density code that would apply to both “Tourist” and “Commercial” zones, and the Cabana Club Restaurant site is a “C” zone. If adopted, Legg Mason might submit plans to build a hotel of 60-66 rooms. Up to 3,000 hotel rooms might be added to the entire island. Mayor Hibbard has indicated that he does not believe Sand Key residents are opposed to more hotel rooms and the PPC being adopted to apply to Sand Key. It is important that you let him and other City Council members know your concerns. Contact information and suggested message points will be distributed later this week in another status email.
Legg Mason’s Plans: As of this date, we are not aware of any plans of Legg Mason being on file with the City Planning Department. Because of their push for a code that would allow more hotel rooms, this is not surprising. Petitions that oppose a structure which seeks variances have been left in the lobbies of some condominium lobbies. In the upcoming week you may be contacted for access to your building to supply/collect these petitions or to request signatures of residents.

We thank you for your support and for forwarding this information to your fellow Sand Key neighbors, condo association boards and condominium residents.

Cynthia L. Remley
The Harbour
Direct (727) 215-9711
e-mail: Cynthia@ProRemLaw.com

Victory may be short lived...

2008-03-22T13:29:00.003-04:00

According to Tampabay.com the zoning issue is not dead...

Victory for the Shoppes on Sand Key

2008-03-21T10:42:00.000-04:00

Dear Friends, Residents, and Visitors, The City Council voted 4-1 last night to defeat the "Tourist" zoning for the Shoppes! Without all your support in the campaign and the attendance at the 3 meetings, this would have not turned out this way. Thank you! Thank you! Thank you! There is still much work to be done to get the zoning that will retain the Shoppes, but with your continued support - we can do it! Thank you again,Mary Reinhardt and the SOS Committee

Important Clarification: Sand Key Shoppes

2008-03-19T17:11:00.000-04:00

IMPORTANT! Please attend the City Council Meeting March 20th (tomorrow) at 6pm. Even though the CDB denied the Tourist zoning for the Shoppes, it is just a recommendation. The City Council will hear the case and make the decision! And remember - there is still NO zoning for that property. www.saveourshoppes.com can help if you have questions. Thanks for your support!Mary Reinhardt

Results for Meeting 1, Sand Key Shoppes

2008-03-19T14:40:00.000-04:00

According to Mary Reinhardt,

Hello everyone,
First, thanks for your support. You, individually and together have made the difference to have the Community Development Board deny a recommendation to the City Council for the Tourist zoning of the Shoppes.

Please refer to: www.saveourshoppes.com for the VERY LATEST information and new issues that could impact Sand Key. Be sure the check the "Call to Arms".

Please take a moment to forward this message to your "sphere of influence" mailing list. We need to have everyone informed because things change momentarily!

Thank you for your continued support!!

Mary Reinhardt
SOS Committee

Meetings for Clearwater Beach Hotel Density

2008-03-17T16:10:00.000-04:00

According to Mary Reinhardt: March 18th 1 pm - CDB Meeting City Hall - 112 S. Osceola St, 3rd FloorTWO IMPORTANT ITEMS! CDB Will deny or recommend the Tourist zoning for the Shoppes to the City Council. Will hear the hotel density room increase (could go from 50 rooms per acre to 125 rooms per acre This could affect Sand Key!

March 20th 6 pm - City Council Meeting City Hall - 112 S. Osceola St, 3rd Floor First hearing (the IMPORTANT ONE) on the zoning of the Shoppes Hearing on hotel density room increase. See flyer below for the details. Please plan to attend one or BOTH meetings. Thank you for your continued support.

SAVE OUR SHOPPES
WE NEED YOU!

WHY: The Mayor and City Council will finally determine the fate of the Shoppes on Sand Key. If they vote for “tourist accommodations” zoning, a ten story hotel could be built in place of the Shoppes on Sand Key. The Shoppes would be gone!

WHEN: March 20, 2008 at 6:00 p.m.
WHERE: Clearwater City Hall
112 S. Osceola Avenue
Clearwater, Florida
Doors Open at 5:00 p.m
WHAT: Can you do? Attend the hearing!
This is your last chance to unite with your neighbors and have your voice heard before your elected officials.
HOW: Bus transportation - $7 round trip.
Visit: http://www.saveourshoppes.com/

Another Clearwater Gazette

2008-03-13T19:10:00.000-04:00

Another Clearwater Gazette Article:

The Sand Key Civic Association meeting of March 5th started with Lt. Andrews of the Clearwater Police Department reporting on a proposed Gulf Boulevard crosswalk between Dan's Island and the Marina location.
Then the board of directors handled the recent resignation of president Mike Dooley due to relocation by holding an election to fill the vacancy. Al DiPalo of Crescent Beach Club was elected to fill the remaining term of Dooley.
A presentation was then made by Legg Mason/ Belleview Biltmore team regarding redevelopment of the Cabana Club Grille. According to Legg Mason, the redevelopment plan for the Sand Key property includes demolishing the current building and erecting a six story 38-room hotel with restaurant/bar and cabanas. The proposed redevelopment plan would require a height variance from the current 25-foot limitation to a 65-foot limit, stated the planners. Questions from citizens followed the presentation. The SKCA board of directors discussed the proposed redevelopment plan of the Cabana Club Grille and then resolved to oppose any city variance to the current building and city codes.
Regarding the Shoppes, it was reported that as a result of the 3/3 split vote to deny the application for T zoning at the February 19 Community Development Board meeting, a new motion and vote will take place at the March 18 meeting. The term of one board member expired after the meeting and a new board member was appointed, and one board member was absent - so there will be several different members voting. The result of that vote will determine the recommendation the board makes to the City Council which will hear the application at its March 20 meeting.
All who attended were urged to attend the City Council meeting and voice their opinions.

Clearwater Gazette

2008-03-13T19:06:00.000-04:00

This week in the Clearwater Gazette:

Some 400 Sand Key residents attended a recent Community Development Board meeting to protest Tourist zoning for Sand Key. Twice that number of signed petitions affirming the protest were presented at the meeting. For some reason, the Board had only six members present resulting in a split vote on whether the CDB recommends Tourist zoning to the City Council. Consequently, the meeting was extended to March 18 for a final vote, the results of which will be referred to the City Council at its March 20 meeting.
We recognize the City is looking for new ways to generate tax revenue. We applaud the City`s encouragement of new hotel rooms on Clearwater Beach, already a tourist destination. We just discovered on the agenda for that same March 20 meeting, the City Council and Mayor will vote on allowing the Marriott and Sheraton hotels on Sand Key to increase the number of hotel rooms on the north end of the island from the current 610 to 3000 or FIVE TIMES! Sand Key is not a tourist destination now and we urge our City officials to respect our residents' determination to keep it that way.
We bought our home on Sand Key because of the residential nature of this community, complete with our quaint but convenient retail component, the Shoppes on Sand Key. We`d like to maintain the residential nature of our community along with thousands of our neighbors. The Shoppes have provided the entire Sand Key community with amenities that will be lost if tourist zoning is approved. Along with that loss will be greatly increased traffic, construction congestion, decreased property values and much increased beach noise.
We respectfully ask the City Council to work with our residents to produce a Neighborhood Community Overlay District for Sand Key. This was done successfully for Island Estates and the Coachman Ridge Neighborhood Plan. It can be done for Sand Key and thereby preserve the residential nature of our community. After all, Sand Key residents generate, through payment of property taxes in excess of 17% of the City`s budget. Let`s not lose sight of that!
- Jim and Jane Strenski, Sand Key (Clearwater).

Save our Shoppes on Sand Key

2008-03-07T06:32:00.000-05:00

According to Mary Reinhardt of Save our Shoppes:

Dear Friend and Supporters of Sand Key, Again thank you for your emails and support. SOS also means HELP! You can help us very easily. I have attached a survey which is very important.Please take a moment and have each member of your household fill it out and return to me. It can be mailed, FAXed or left at the Bank of America.The address and FAX number are at the bottom of the page. I need it by March 14th. Also, we have bumper stickers (removable) available for a donation of $5.00. This is used for the legal defense fund. Don't forget the BIG DAY. The City Council meets on March 20th at 6 pm to hear the zoning application for the Shoppes. Please try to attend. We filled the hearing room, the overflow room, the lobby and the parking lot at the CDB hearing.We must do it again. Our future and our life style on Sand Key depends on this!! Continued thanks for all your support!

Residents and Visitors of Sand Key

Survey for the SOS Committee

1. How often do you use the Shoppes on Sand Key?

______per day

______per week

What services do you use at the Shoppes on Sand Key?
(Check which ones you use)

_____Bank _____Grocery Store

_____Restaurants _____Nail Salon

_____Dry Cleaners _____Yogurt/Ice Cream Parlor

_____Real Estate Company _____Coffee Shop

_____Gift Shops or Jewelry Store _____Ladies Apparel Shops

_____Men’s Clothing Store

3. Which directions(s) would you travel if there were no Shoppes on Sand Key? (Check one or both)

_____North to Clearwater Beach

_____South to Belleair or Largo

Name______________________Address___________________________

Phone_____________________ City, State, Zip Code_________________

Thank you for participating in this survey

Please return by March 14, 2008 to:
SOS Committee c/o M. Reinhardt, 1230 Gulf Blvd #604, Clearwater, FL 33767
or FAX to 727-595-7355

Another Sand Key Shoppes Update

2008-02-27T19:28:00.000-05:00

According to Steven Everitt, City of Clearwater Planning Department, The Zoning Atlas Amendment from the Business District to the Tourist District (REZ2007-10001) at 1241, 1261 and 1281 Gulf Boulevard is scheduled for the Community Development Board meeting on Tuesday, March 18, 2008 at 1 pm. The public should be advised that the public hearing has been closed and that no further testimony will be forthcoming from City staff, representatives of the applicant or the public, or the public generally. It will be a matter of deliberation by the Board only as they consider a motion on the application. The case will then be before the City Council (1st Reading) on Thursday, March 20, 2008 at 6 pm. On May 1, 2008, the case will be before City Council (2nd Reading) at 6 pm. Interested parties may appear and be heard at the hearing or file written notice of approval or objection with the Planning Department or City Clerk prior to the City Council meetings.

Sand Key Shoppes

2008-02-21T09:50:00.000-05:00

According to the Tampa Bay Newspaper On line edition , a group of 300- 400 Sand Key residents appeared at the Tuesday's Community Development Board meeting to oppose the change in zoning for the Sand Key Shoppes. With over 2400 signatures, Sand Key resident's voices were heard. A 3-3 deadlock vote was reached.

There will be another vote at the Tuesday, March 18 meeting.

Save our Shoppes on Sand Key

2008-02-16T09:46:00.000-05:00

The shoppes on Sand Key are at risk of being zoned "Tourist". This would allow a hotel TEN stories high. Our shops would be gone! You can help! Attend the February Board Meeting and sign the petition available at Bank of America located at the Shoppes. The Community Board meeting is on February 19, 2008 at 1PM, City Hall, 3rd Floor - 112 S. Osceola Street, Clearwater. Doors open at noon. Arrive Early!

Bus transportation provided - $7.00 roundtrip call 727-698-0743. Visit http://www.saveourshoppes.com/

Sand Key Shoppes Update

2008-01-17T19:25:00.000-05:00

According to the January 17, 2008 Clearwater Gazette:

Developer Steps Back And Reconsiders Purchase Options - Cedarwood Development, owner of the Marriott Hotel on Sand Key, is reconsidering the purchase option for the Shoppes of Sand Key from current owner Dick Bennett. However, and due to lack of current City of Clearwater zoning, the Marriott property on Sand Key zoning application will move forward with the Clearwater Community Development Board.

Shoppes on Sand Key Marriott Hotel Zoning Request

2008-01-15T07:48:00.000-05:00

A request for a T (Tourist) zone designation has been filed with the City of Clearwater for the property where the Shoppes on Sand Key are currently located. If granted, the Applicant has indicated their intention to build a new 375 room hotel, a condominium complex and a spa where the Shoppes are currently located. The Applicant also would build a parking complex and additional condominiums on the property located between the existing Marriott Hotel and the Sand Key Sailing Center. In addition, the Applicant has expressed their intent to seek approval to build a Marina behind their property.

Public hearings on the application are currently scheduled before the Clearwater Community Development Board on 1/15 at 1 pm and the Clearwater city Council on 2/7 and 2/21 at 6 pm. Meeting will take place at Clearwater City Hall 112 S Osceloa Ave. Please plan to attend these meetings and express your views. Buildings withing the 500 feet of the proposed zone change may be granted "Party Status" which allows for presentation of professional testimony and questioning of applicants professionals. Bayside Gardens, The Grande, Harbor Light Towers, Landmark Towers 1 and 2, Lighthouse Towers and the Meridian are located within 500 feet of the subject application.

Currently the Grande, Landmark 1 and 2, and Meridian and the Sand key Civic Association (SKCA) have hired an Attorney and Planner to represent their interests at the upcoming City of Clearwater Community Development Board and City Council meetings where the Applicant's zone request will be considered.

Unit owners interested in making a contribution can do so by making checks payable to Alan S Zimmit, ESQ, Trust Account, and send them to PO Box 15309, Clearwater, Florida, 33756-5309. Please note on memo line "Legal Fees - Rezoning of the Shoppes.

Update:

Please be advised that the applicant for the Zoning Atlas Amendment from the Business District to the Tourist District (REZ2007-10001) located at 1201, 1241, 1261 and 1281 Gulf Boulevard will request a continuance of the case at the January 15, 2008 Community Development Board meeting. The applicant will request the case be continued to the February 19, 2008 Community Development Board meeting.
Steven Everitt
City of Clearwater Planning Department

Email can also be sent to Steven.Everitt@myClearwater.com

Wedding on Clearwater Beach

2007-11-03T16:45:00.000-04:00

Here I sit at home with the remnants of Noel passing through, forty four degrees outside watching a wedding at Clearwater Beach. What a wonderful place to get married. It's about 4:45 in the afternoon , sun is setting, the screamer goes by in the background and I wish I could be there. I know it is warm as there are kids swimming in the channel. The photographer is setting up so the bride must be coming. They lay out the white satin walkway on the sand and everyone is waiting. Here she comes. I can only imagine that she is barefoot under her beautiful white dress. I would be if I were married there. Her veil is blowing in the wind, as I hear the 45 mile an hour gusts outside my skylight. A few boats are wading close by watching the wedding. There are about 50 people there, sitting on the beach in white chairs. It doesn't seem to bother the tourists as one guy is still digging in the sand with his daughter. Can you imagine that.

She kisses the groom and walks down the aisle. Everyone cheers as I can see there hands clapping and arms raised. Two by two the audience leaves after the bride and groom. The crowd disperses, only the children in their bathing suits are left and the guy is still digging a hole.
Someone just took the webcam away from me....

New Pedestrian Bridge in Clearwater Beach

2007-11-02T10:21:00.000-04:00

What a great project the new pedestrian bridge is. The new 300 foot walkway will span the western end of Memorial Causeway to Clearwater Beach south of the fishing pier. The St. Petersburg times is writing that it will provide a safe passage for 5000 pedestrians and cyclists per week. This will provide access for people staying in the new developments across the channel and the new proposed boat slips as well. The construction is annoying and hopefully local businesses will survive, but when it is complete, Clearwater Beach will be more accessible to everyone.