As we prepare to observe Memorial Day, we are also quickly approaching the 4th of July.  As we have for over two decades, the Siesta Key Chamber of Commerce will coordinate, fund, and host the annual Siesta Key fireworks celebration. 

With no direct taxpayer funding used to continue this local tradition, we do offer a limited number of VIP packages to help bring the celebration to the Key.

Each VIP package includes:

·    Convenient reserved on-site parking at Siesta Beach
·    On-site gourmet picnic dinner for two
·    Beer, wine and soft drinks
·    Live musical entertainment
·    Preferred viewing area for the spectacular 20-minute fireworks
·    Acknowledgement in event advertising and on-site signage.

For complete details and registration information click here, or telephone us at 941.349.3800.

Since 1991, coastal expert Dr. Stephen P. Leatherman, Director of Florida International University's Laboratory for Coastal Research, has annually listed America's top ten beaches.  Fifty criteria are used to evaluate the beaches, which include water and sand quality. 

This year, which marks the 20th anniversary of the list, Siesta Key Beach was named the number two beach in the country!  This is a great honor and excellent placement for Siesta Key and Sarasota as a whole.  While a number one ranking would be fitting of our beach, once we are named number one, we would no longer be eligible for future lists.  Each year we appear on the list, it presents Siesta Key with a unique opportunity to receive a lot of interest from potential visitors.

To see the entire list click here.

When releasing the list of America's best beaches, the Associated Press asked "Dr. Beach" about the oil spill and how it would specifically impact Siesta Key.  The A.P. quoted Leatherman as saying "there's very low probability the oil will get to southwest Florida."

Even still, Sarasota business owners are being strongly urged to keep detailed documentation regarding potential lost business due to the oil spill.  This should include details about the exact business that was lost and the estimated lost revenue.  As with everything, the more detailed and complete your documentation is, the better.

Florida's coastal businesses should be prepared to make loss of earnings claims for damages incurred as a result of the Deepwater Horizon oil spill. In all circumstances, affected businesses should file a claim with BP via the hotline number - 1-800-440-0858 or claims office. Learn more by calling 1-850-413-3089 or toll-free at 1-877-MY-FL-CFO (1-877-693-5236).

The Siesta Key Chamber of Commerce has put up a dedicated page with current information and important links that will allow users to keep up-to-date on recovery efforts.  You can view the page by clicking here.

The Siesta Key Chamber held a ribbon cutting for new member Elite Fitness & Wellness, 4601 South Tamiami Trail, last month and dozens of guests came to show their support.  Elite Fitness & Wellness is a private training studio that incorporates the many different areas of health & fitness into one, complete package.

Siesta Key Fitness Center is offering a free one month membership for Chamber members, all local merchants, and all employees.  Offering 24 hr access, the center invites you to make some time for yourself.  For details, click here....The IRS, in line with a new health reform law, gives a tax credit to certain small employers that provide health care coverage to their employees.  For complete details, click here

The Siesta Key Chamber of Commerce held its' June luncheon at Carrabba's.  With so much happening in your office and your time always being at a premium, let Carrabba's take the stress of planning food for the next meeting off your plate. The same great, bold Carrabba's flavors you love at our restaurant are also available for carry-out, delivery to your workplace or private luncheons.  

RIBBON CUTTING AND GRAND RE-OPENING
Friday June 4
5:30 pm

A Little Bliss
1882 Stickney Point Road
Sarasota, FL 34231

Champagne and Hors d'oeuvres between 5:30 and 7:30, plus drawings and give-aways!

Please RSVP by Thursday, June 3 at noon
by phoning 341-3800 or emailing
tess@siestakeychamber.com