Ir beach Sep06 #3 - Beach Newsletters

SEPTEMBER / 2006 ISSUE 3
TOURIST BOOM
By Wayne Ayers,
Indian Rocks
Historical Society
The beach is our treasure… a goldmine for
property owners, businesses and developers, and
a treasured recreational resource for the
thousands of tourists who throng to our shores
each year.
Early settlers of Indian Rocks viewed the beach as
an unproductive wasteland, and chose instead to
stake their claim to the richer soils of the mainland.
The settlement at Anona along Indian Rocks Road
was Indian Rocks until the Tampa & Gulf Coast
Railroad brought a spur line across the channel in
1914. The train was derisively called the Tug and
Grunt, but passengers flocked aboard the rickety
ride that led to cooling breezes and carefree times.
"Old Noisy," the first automobile bridge, followed
in 1916, tempting scores of families to venture
over in their Model T's.
Suddenly, trainloads of Tampans and carloads of
people from everywhere were discovering the joys
of a vacation retreat at Indian Rocks Beach. The
tourism boom of the early 1900s was on. Notable
wooden hotels built to accommodate the horde of
Early versions of the “beach buggy”
brought visitors to Indian Rocks Beach.
This photo was taken at Brandon’s
Bathing Pavilion near the old bridge circa
1925. Photo Courtesy of TampaHillsborough County Public Library
"excursionists" included the Indian Rocks Inn,
Indian Beach Hotel and Bluebird Inn (later called
the Haven Beach Hotel).
Wealthier Tampa residents and others stoked the
real estate boom of the '20s, constructing retreats
ranging from modest beach cottages to expensive
vacation homes.
The rush to the beach was dampened by the
depression and war years, then took off with a
frenzy in the postwar decades. War-weary families
with newfound prosperity arrived with their babyboom children in search of fun in the sun. They
found a paradise waiting at Indian Rocks Beach,
with its miles of silver sands and Florida's longest
fishing pier.
The boom times have never let up, and the condo
era that began in the '70s has continued to
intensify. The community looks
to accommodate the new
growth and prosperity, while
seeking to preserve our unique
and treasured heritage.
PAID
PRESORTED STD
U S POSTAGE
Permit No. 39
Clearwater, FL
This story and more are contained in Indian Rocks As It Was, now available at
the Historical Museum (across from the Post Office).
$20 each, proceeds benefit the Historical Society.
INDIAN ROCKS BEACH NEIGHBORHOOD NEWSLETTER
CREDITS
CITY NUMBERS
CITY HALL . . . . . . . . 595-2
2517
1507 Bay Palm Blvd
www.Indian-Rocks-Beach.com
The
Indian
Rocks
Beach
Neighborhood Newsletter is
published every 2 months and
distributed by mail to every
occupied residence and business
in Indian Rocks Beach. This
newsletter is published by
GRIFFIN PRODUCTIONS, Inc.
While, not officially associated
with the City of Indian Rocks
Beach government, we attempt
to provide information important
and interesting to the residents of
Indian
Rocks
Beach.
PUBLISHER
Bob & Becky Griffin
Residents of Indian Rocks Beach
ART DIRECTION
Becky Griffin
SALES
727-517-1997
CONTACT INFO
P.O. BOX 1314
Indian Rocks Beach, FL 33785
517-1997 ~ 517-1998 FAX
[email protected]
IRBNewsletter.com
PUBLICATION DATES
January, March, May
July, September, November
OTHER PUBLICATIONS
The Beach Directory™
Best Beach Restaurants
www.BestRestaurantsMagazine.com
Recipes of the Best Beach Restaurants
www.BestBeachRestaurants.com
www.SeeFloridaOnline.com
Is there something you would like
to see included in this newsletter?
Please send all comments and
suggestions to
[email protected]
© 2006 Griffin Productions, Inc.
MAYOR/CITY COMMISSION . 517-0204
MAYOR - Bill Ockunzzi
COMMISSIONERS —
Jim Palamara • R.B. Johnson
Jose Coppen • Ed Piniero
City Manager: . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 595-4627
Al Grieshber, Jr
Building Department: . . . . . . . . 517-0404
Danny Taylor
Public Services: . . . . . . . . . . . . . 595-6889
Dean Scharmen, Dir.
IRB LIBRARY . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 596-1822
Next to City Hall
M-F 10A-4P; Tu-Th 7P-8:30P, Sat 10A-1PM;
Closed Sunday
IRB HISTORICAL MUSEUM . . . 593-3861
Across from the Post Office
IRB HOMEOWNER ASSOC.. . . 517-0525
Phil Wrobel, President - IRBHome.com
BEACH ART CENTER . . . . . . . . 596-4331
Next to City Hall, 1515 Bay Palm Blvd
M-Th 8:30A-4PM, Fri 9AM-Noon.
YMCA / North Beaches . . . . . . . 595-5610
Walsingham near the Bridge, 500 2nd Street
POST OFFICE / IRB. . . . . . . . . . 596-2894
204 4th Avenue 33785, Near Crabby Bill’s
Mon-Fri 8:30A-4:30P; Sat 9A-12:00P
IRB ROTARY
www.Indian-Rocks-Rotary.org
Meets at Jimmy Guana's for Breakfast
Every Wednesday Morning 7:15AM
David Kline, Past President . . . . 593-2605
ACTION 2000
John Todia. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 595-2369
Meets 2nd Monday Each Month Beach Art Ctr
EMERGENCIES: . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9-1-1
SHERIFF’S OFFICE . . . . . . . . . . 582-6200
DISPATCH . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 582-6177
PINELLAS COUNTY INFO . . . . 464-3000
CHAMBER OF COMMERCE
Gulf Beaches . . . . . . . . . . . . 360-6957
Clearwater Beach . . . . . . . . 447-7600
ELECTRICITY. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 443-2641
PHONE (Residential) . . . . . 800-483-4000
PHONE (Business) . . . . . . . 800-483-5000
DIGITAL PHONE (Bright House) 329-5020
WATER . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 464-4000
CABLE (Bright House) . . . . . . . . 329-5020
HIGH SPEED INTERNET(Bright House) 329-5020
SEWER / IRB . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 595-6889
TRASH / IRB / Pick Up . . . . . . . 595-6889
------------------------------------------------COUNTY INFORMATION . . . . 464-3000
COMMISSION OFFICES. . . . . . 464-3377
Kenneth Welch . . . . . . . . . . 464-3614
Karen Seel . . . . . . . . . . . . . 464-3278
STATE:
Senator Dennis Jones . . . . 727-549-6411
Republican, District 13
8940 Seminole Blvd, Seminole 33772
[email protected]
Representative Everett Rice 727-593-6155
Republican, District 54
18395 Gulf Blvd, Indian Shores 33785
[email protected]
Governor Jeb Bush
[email protected]
FLORIDA UNITED STATES SENATORS:
Mel Martinez . . . . . . . . . . 202-224-3041
www.Martinez.Senate.gov
Bill Nelson . . . . . . . . . . . . . 202-224-5274
www.BillNelson.Senate.gov
AREA UNITED STATES REPRESENTATIVE:
Rep Bill Young . . . . . . . . . . 202-225-5961
801 W. Bay Drive, Suite 606, Largo, 33770
www.house.gov/young
2006 - 2007
CALENDAR OF LOCAL EVENTS
SEPTEMBER
Labor Day (Monday)
Primary Election
Beach Cigarette Clean Up Day
Grandparents Day (Sunday)
Florida Coastal Clean Up
Florida Blood Svs / Post Office
OCTOBER
City Occupational Licenses Expire
Octoberfest (Saturday)
Stone Crab Season Begins
Haunted House/Pumpkin Carving
Daylight Savings Time Ends (Sun 2AM)
Halloween (Tuesday)
9/4
9/5
9/9
9/10
9/16
9/29
10/01
10/14
10/15
10/28
10/29
10/31
NOVEMBER
Historical Society / Fall Luncheon
11/4
Election Day (Tuesday)
11/7
Veteran’s Day (Saturday)
11/11
YMCA Sunset Serenade Wine Tasting 11/18
Thanksgiving (Thursday)
11/23
IRB Garage Sale (Sat/Sun)
11/25-26
DECEMBER
Florida Blood Svs / Post Office
Tree Lighting (Friday Night)
Christmas Parade (Sunday)
Annual Lighted Boat Parade (Sat)
Christmas (Monday)
Dog Park Permits Expire
IRB Skate Park Permits Expire
JANUARY 2007
Little League Tryouts
New Year’s Day
New Beach Parking Permits Issued
FEBRUARY
Valentine’s Day
Flag Day
Winter Fest on the Rocks
Community Clean Up
MARCH
Election Day (Tuesday)
St Patrick’s Day (Saturday)
12/08
12/01
12/03
12/16
12/25
12/31
12/31
1/1
1/1
2/14
2/24
3/13
3/17
INDIAN ROCKS BEACH NEIGHBORHOOD NEWSLETTER
IMPORTANT LOCAL WEB SITES
Local:
City of Indian Rocks Beach - www.Indian-Rocks-Beach.com
Homeowners Association - www.IRBHome.com
IRB Rotary - www.Indian-Rocks-Rotary.org
State Travel - www.SeeFloridaOnline.com
Local Cookbook - www.BestBeachRestauranants.com
Local Red Cross - /www.redcrosstbc.org
Government:
State of Florida - www.MyFlorida.com
State Senate - www.FlSenate.gov
State House - www.MyFloridaHouse.gov
Pinellas County - www.PinellasCounty.org
Pinellas County Schools - www.pinellas.k12.fl.us
Pinellas County Sheriff - www.pcsoweb.com
Intracoastal Web Sites:
U.S. Coast Guard - www.uscgboating
Florida Inland Navigation - www.aicw.org
Agency for Bay Management - www.BaySoundings.com
Tampa Bay Watch - www.TampaBayWatch.org
Southwest Water Management District - www.WaterMatters.org
INDIAN ROCKS BEACH NEIGHBORHOOD NEWSLETTER
Did You Know...
NEW COTTAGE
CALENDARS: The second
edition of the 2007 IRB
Cottage Calendars by the
Pleine Aire Cottage Artists
is now available for sale
at the IRB Library and the
IRB Historical Museum.
The cost is $18 each. Call
596-1822 or 593-3861
for more info. The proceeds benefit these two groups.
Makes the perfect Christmas Gift. See more on line
www.pleinairecottageartists.com
___________________________________________________
TOURISM accounts for 35% of the Penny for Pinellas tax
dollars used for roadway improvements, libraries, parking
garages, fire & police needs and so much more. For the
2010-2020 time frame that will amount to $40 million
dollars of spendable tax income. No wonder we LOVE
our Tourists and can’t afford to lose them.
___________________________________________________
LIBRARY: There is no November referendum on the
ballot concerning a new library. The City Commission
has decided to gather more information before taking
any action on the library issue.
___________________________________________________
EMINENT DOMAIN There will be a referendum in
November to create a Charter Amendment limiting the
City's eminent domain powers, meaning the City can not
acquire property via eminent domain for the purposes of
selling or gifting that property to another person for
purposes
of economic development
___________________________________________________
FIRE DISTRICT COSTS INCREASE: The Pinellas Suncoast
Fire & Rescue District Board of Commissioners is looking
for a yearly increase of $55 -$70 per household to keep
up operations. Without an increase, they say we may be
$480,000 in the red in 2007. Look for this, also on the
November
ballot.
___________________________________________________
STORM WATER RUN OFF PROJECT The city started a new
"Stormwater Quality Improvement Project" on August 7
from 23rd Ave to 25th Avenue. This will improve drainage
in that area as well as prevent run off from going directly
into
the Intracoastal Waterway helping the environment.
___________________________________________________
BLOOD SWEAT BUT NO
TEARS: Anita Deal of the
Indian Rocks Beach Post
Office donates blood during
the July quarterly blood drive
held in the parking lot of the
post office. The next blood
drive will be held September
29th.
_________________________
TACKY 9th Andy LePage and
Tacky Turtle Cafe celebrated their ninth Anniversary July 22nd
with an outdoor party, live band, free cuban sandwiches and
250
of his closest customers. Can't wait for #10
___________________________________________________
INDIAN ROCKS BEACH NEIGHBORHOOD NEWSLETTER
www.IRBHome.com: The IRB Homeowners Association
has
a new Web site, and new logo. Check it out.
___________________________________________________
NORTH BEACHES WELCOME CENTER in IRB is looking for
a heavy duty cement picnic table for the new deck in front
of the center. If you are interested in donating one please
contact Geri at 595-4575. They will put a gold plate on the
table
with your name on it.
___________________________________________________
NORTH BEACHES BRANCH YMCA SUNSET SERENADE
WINE TASTING is tentatively scheduled for Sat. Nov. 18,
6:30 - 10 p.m. in the IRB Nature Preserve. Tickets are
$25 in advance, $35 day of event. For tickets, or info, call
the YMCA, 595-5610. This is the second annual Sunset
Serenade,
and promises to be a great event.
___________________________________________________
PATRICIA "PAT" PLUMLEE is being
honored by The Indian Rocks
Volunteer Fireman's Association of
Pinellas Suncoast Fire and Rescue
District at the Fourth Annual
Commitment to Excellence in
Leadership Awards Dinner Sept. l6.
Congratulations!
________________________________
HOMEOWNER’S INSURANCE UP?
Did your insurance go up? Ours did.
Our total homeowner’s insurance went up 24%. Our
Windstorm through Citizens went up 46%. Now lets hope
we
don’t have to use it.
___________________________________________________
WEST PINELLAS LITTLE LEAGUE FALL BALL is an
instructional season with lots of fundamental learning as
well as games. Registration is going on right now. We
have teams for T- Ball, ages 5-6; AA for ages 7-8; AAA
for ages 9-10; and Majors for ages 11-12. Anyone who
would like to be involved please phone 517-3779.
Spring registration will begin in January.
___________________________________________________
IRB FIRE STATION on
HGTV: Our local fire
station in IRB won
$10,000 to remodel
their kitchen thanks
to Maxwell House
Coffee. It had a
BUCS theme and
Michael Alstott
stopped
by to autograph the recovered, red pool table.
___________________________________________________
WHAT’S YOUR EVACUATION PLAN? Do you have
questions about your own evacuation? Call 464-3800 or
go to www.PinellasCounty.org/emergency for more
information.
___________________________________________________
TURTLE SEASON: began in May and continues through
the end of October. We want to remind beachfront
property owners to lower outside lighting that faces the
beach. Turtles and new hatchlings are attracted to that
light. If you don't know what to do...call the city and ask
for Public Works.
___________________________________________________
NEXT ISSUE in NOVEMBER: This newsletter is printed
every other month and survives on local advertising.
Please support the people advertising here. If you are an
IRB resident and want to advertise...you get a discount.
INDIAN ROCKS BEACH NEIGHBORHOOD NEWSLETTER
A BEACHY VERSION OF
A GERMAN TRADITION
The IRB Action 200, Inc.(A2K) and the IRB Rotary Club
are pleased to announce the 5th Annual
OKTOBERFEST ON THE BEACH, October 14th from
11 am -7 pm at Kolb Park. Tampa Bay Newspapers,
the media sponsor
and Cuso's Club &
Cantina, the event
sponsor are lending
their support. We
appreciate their
continued commitment
to this event and our
community.
Great food, beer (no
more big lines - we
promise!),
Some of last year’s volunteers
entertainment (Cathy's
Lorelei Band will again add the German flavor) and
fun will be in store this year. The North Beaches YMCA
will host games for the kids from 11 am - 3 pm.
There will be plenty of games for the adults, too,
including keg throwing, a wife-carrying contest, steincarrying contest for the ladies and more! We have also
added another competitive attraction…so if you think
you men and women are 'strong' enough to measure
up, come on by!
Don't forget to check out the vendor tents and the special
Silent Auction items. You could win coupons from local
restaurants, shops and even a vacation getaway!
The highlight of the event will be the drawing for two
lucky people to attend the
2007 NFL Ultimate Game
to be held in the jet set
capital of the US, Miami
Florida on Feb.4, 2007.
Tickets are only $5 each.
All proceeds go back to our
community.
Learn more about the event
at www.Indian-RocksRotary.org
TICKETS ARE AVAILABLE NOW
FROM ANY ROTARY CLUB OR
Last Year’s Big Winners A2K MEMBER, CUSO’S CLUB &
at the game in Detroit! CANTINA OR AT THE IRB
VISITORS CENTER.
SEE YOU THERE !
INDIAN ROCKS BEACH NEIGHBORHOOD NEWSLETTER
Indian Rocks Beach V
Find more on www
e
Seasid
Arbors
es
Cottag
ARBOR SEASIDE COTTAGES 218 Gulf Blvd. 517-7222 - 3 Key West styled cottages, one a large house sleep
6 on the beach. All units have kitchens. The cottages have 2 bdrms. each. One cottage faces the beach with a priv
patio. South of 5th Avenue and across from MY PLACE restaurant. Rates range from $500 Studio to $1200 wee
(can be found on SeeFloridaOnline.com).
BEACH HOUSE VACATION HOME 16 Gulf Blvd. 446-7475 - A 1920’s, 4 bd. vacation home built by the Tam
Garcia’s. 100 ft of beach in the Narrows and full Intracoastal views. Amenities include pine wood floors, firepla
modern kitchen, washer/dryer, & central air. Rates from $2800 to $4600 weekly, with discounts for longer stay
BEACH TRAIL COTTAGE 724 Gulf Blvd. 394-2083 - This remodeled cottage was built in 1925 and has the origi
floors and windows. Minimum 3 days vacation rental with a two units, 1 downstairs with 2 Bd., and one upstairs wit
bedroom. Rates are from $675 / week to $900. Fronts on Gulf Blvd. a short walk to the beach.
BELLEAIR ROCKS APARTMENTS 2710 2nd Street, 595-6874 - Two apartments just a 4 minute walk from
beach, located at the north end of IRB next to Brown Park (tennis and playground). Both are ground floor units w
2 bds. each. Private Pool. Weekly and monthly rental. Prices range from $350 to $450/week.
BLUE HERON COTTAGE #5 990 Gulf Blvd. 595-6104 - Classic Old Style cottages directly on the beach, wit
pool. Private parking and beach access. Price ranges from $695 to $995 / week.
se
er Hou
Grang
CAMERON COVE RESORT 2402 Gulf Blvd. 596-8610 - A Time Share Resort located at Mile Marker 18, across fro
Cuso’s’s Beach Place. While rented to members, they do have rooms available regularly and are directly on the Gulf
Mexico. All rooms have a view of the gulf and are 2 bd. / 2 bath. Pool, BBQ grills, volley ball available.
CAY POINTE VILLA 514 Gulf Blvd. 596-2794 - 4 units directly on the beach; three 2 bd., one 3 bd. No pool, la
covered deck and picnic tables. Weekly & monthly rentals range from $995 to $1195 weekly. (Increases in 2007).
CENTURY 21 / PLUMLEE (Vacation Rentals) 417 First Ave, 595-7886 - Over 250 luxury condo rentals. Many bea
front and with pools, hot tubs, tennis courts, docks, internet access. Prices range from $250 to $2200 / week.
CHIC-A
A -S
SI COTTAGE 316 Gulf Blvd. (813) 837-3666 - Classic Beach Front Cottage, 3 bd./ 2 baths, large living roo
vintage furniture, outdoor shower, large gazebo, deck, and parking. Price ranges from $1200 to $1600 / week.
COLONIAL COURT INN 318 Gulf Blvd. 517-0902 - 6 apartments, some facing the beach. Large shaded lot wit
gazebo. Perfect for weddings and wedding parties. Prices range from $495 to $1495 / week. Located near the CVS sto
DE SOTO COTTAGES 2 4th Avenue 596-1621- Two units directly on the beach, near Crabby Bill’s Restaurant
Bd. / 2 baths. Contact Sea Gull Realty for more information. Ask for Prudy. See Sea Gull below.
rt
e Reso
ulfsid
810 G
FIFTY GULFSIDE CONDOS 50 Gulf Blvd. 595-6739 - 50 Condos directly on the beach in “the Narrows”, h
facing the gulf and half facing the intracoastal. They have a pool, grills, and cable TV. Rates range from $
intracoastal to $155 beach side daily.
FOUSHEE REALTY (Vacation Rentals) 1401 Gulf Blvd. 596-5413 - Has a rental condo in The Reef Club Cond
(1000 Gulf Blvd); Beachfront property with pool, tennis, spa. From $900 to $1400 (Feb/Mar/April).
GRANGER HOUSE 618 Gulf Blvd. 593-5518 - These vacation rentals are on or very near the beach. All units a
modern, beautifully decorated and have fully equipped kitchens, BBQ grills & private patios. There is a pool a
some units have outdoor hot tubs. New arrivals are greeted with wine, candles and flowers. Prices range from $
to $250 per night or $595- $2000 weekly. (can be found on SeeFloridaOnline.com)
GREAT HERON INN 68 Gulf Blvd. 595-2589 - 16 rooms on the Gulf of Mexico, with pool. Daily maid servi
fishing dock on the intracoastal. Prices range from $85to $135 / day.
GULF BREEZE INN 2008 Gulf Blvd. 595-6104 - Beach Apts and Cottages on the west side of Gulf Blvd. steps fro
the beach. Grills and patio. Prices range from $495 to $695 / week. ($89 / night with 3 day minimum).
Holida
a
y Inn H
ide
rbours
GULFSIDE RESORT (810 Gulfside) 810 Gulf Blvd. 596-8063 - Six villas on the Gulf. 1& 2 Bd. units, with kitchens, liv
area, paddle fans and a verandah or balcony. They have a pool, beach cabanas, umbrellas, BBQ grills, shuffleboard
laundry facilities. Family owned / operated by Lee & Mary Wilkerson, IRB residents. Rates $999 to $1995 Wk. Offer
3 day minimums (Also see Sarah’s Seaside). Can be found on SeeFloridaOnline.com
GULF TOWERS RESORT MOTEL 404 Gulf Blvd. 595-2563 - 48 rooms directly on the Gulf of Mexico, located acr
the street from Crabby Bills. Centrally located with pool. All rooms have kitchens. Rates range from $55 to $11
night.
HOLIDAY INN HARBOURSIDE 401 2nd Street, 595-9484 - The largest hotel / resort in IRB, with164 rooms, t
restaurants, five bars, two pools, tiki bar, volley ball, tennis courts, marina and boat rentals. Many rooms face
Intracoastal. It is not on the beach, but only a short walk away. Located on the Intracoastal just East of Crab
Bills. Prices range from $89 to $389 nightly (in season).
Information and rates were supplied by the ac
The higher rates are “In Season” , which is normally December th
acation Accommodations
SeeFloridaOnline.com
HAPPY FIDDLER RESORT 60 Gulf Blvd. 595-8966 - 33 Beachfront Condos in the Narrows area. Pool, gas grills,
laundry. One and two bedroom units available. Prices range from $89 to $142 daily.
IMPERIAL REALTY (Vacation Rentals) 1101 Gulf Blvd. 593-3008 - 74 units to choose from, some beachfront, and some
with pools. All units are furnished with phones and cable TV. Prices range from $400 to $1500 weekly in season.
JOE’s BEACH HIDEAWAY 202 Gulf Blvd. 224-3122 - Three units across from My Place Restaurant: 1 Duplex facing
the road, 2 cottages directly on the beach. Completely furnished with kitchens. Rent weekly or monthly. Duplex 2
Bd. $450 - $650 and Cottages 2 Bdrm $800 - $1350 weekly.
Laugh
ing Liz
ard
B&B
LAUGHING LIZARD Bed & Breakfast 2211 Gulf Blvd. 595-7006 - The only Bed & Breakfast in IRB, newly constructed
with 4 separate rooms, all with private baths available. A real B&B with breakfast and afternoon wine tasting. On the
east side of Gulf Blvd., just a short walk from the beach. Price ranges from $125 to $165 nightly.
MANNING HAMMOCK 214 1st Street, 813-837-3666 - Classic Beach House, located on the east side of Gulf Blvd
behind the Lighthouse Cafe. Built in 1920’s and now in perfect condition. Large shaded and fenced backyard,
vintage furniture, laundry, outdoor shower. 1 block from the beach. Price ranges from $600 - $750 weekly.
ONE FIFTH AVENUE 1 5th Avenue, 424-8773 - Classic 3 bd. Beach House built in 1915. Directly on the Gulf of
Mexico at 5th Avenue / Walsingham. It was recently renovated to it’s original beauty and charm. Room for 6 people.
There is also a separate Studio Efficiency.
Manni
ng Ha
PELICAN EAST MOTEL 108 21st Avenue, 595-9741 - 4 Studio Apartments located on east side of Gulf Blvd., a
mmock
Cottag
short walk to the beach. Clean rooms with moderate prices $70 -80 daily rental and $400-450 Weekly.
e
REEF CLUB CONDOS 1000 Gulf Blvd. Apt # 503, 595-1531 - by Jean Scott. 3 Bd/2 Bath, condos. All units are
beachfront with a pool, tennis court, BBQ grills and a play area for kids. Prices range from $850-$1300 weekly.
SARAH’S SEASIDE 306 Gulf Blvd. 596-8063 - Seven Villas on the Gulf, just south of the CVS Drugs. They have 2
& 3 bd. villas and studio cottages. All with kitchens, cable TV, paddle fans, private verandah or balcony and pool.
Family owned and operated by Lee and Mary Wilkerson, IRB residents. Rates range from $895 (studio) to $2995
(house). 3 Day min. also available. (Also see GULFSIDE RESORT). (can be found on SeeFloridaOnline.com)
SCRUGGS HARBOR 808 Gulf Blvd. 595-1642 - 8 Beach Front Cottages just off Gulf Blvd (Beach Trail). Lots of
privacy, parking, wireless internet, BBQ grills, washer-dryer, & kayaks. Prices from $795 - $950 weekly in season.
SEA GULF REALTY (Vacation Rentals) 2300 Gulf Blvd. 596-1621 - Seasonal and Annual Rentals; Over 150
properties. From $1400 (Summer Month) to $6,000 monthly (Jan-April). Located next to Sandy’s Restaurant.
SEA STAR MOTEL 1805 Gulf Blvd. 596-2525 - 13 units near the beach, on the east side of Gulf Blvd. just north of
Guppies Restaurant. PET FRIENDLY. They have efficiency, 1 & 2 bd. units, with kitchens. Amenities include gas grills,
bicycles, hot tub, laundry, & shuffle board. Rates range from $295 (Studio) to $500 (2 Bdrm) / week, daily ($65 to $100).
Sarah
’s Sea
side
SUN STAR REALTY (Vacation Rentals) 2215 Gulf Blvd. 596-8200 - has 13 properties in Indian Rocks Beach
including beachfront/waterfront . They have daily to long-term rentals-furnished or unfurnished. Prices start at $40
per night and go as high as $6000 per month.
SUNSET VIEW MOTEL 34 Gulf Blvd. 596-5771 - 14 units on the beach in the narrows. Studio, 1 & 2 Bd. with
full kitchens. No Pool but outdoor grills, shuffleboard and a big patio. In business for 29 years. Just north of the
city limits sign. Prices range from $64 (studio) to $98 (2 bedroom / in season).
SUN TIKI COTTAGES 500 Gulf Blvd. (813) 785-6222 - Two cottages at 5th Ave across from the Shell Station. Not
on the beach but close. Large 6 person outdoor spa, quality furnishings, central A/C. Prices $750 to $1200 weekly.
TACKY TURTLE COTTAGE 732 Gulf Blvd. 517-1300 - Classic beach cottage next to Tacky Turtle Cafe and steps from
the beach. Hot tub, full kitchen, washer-dryer, cable TV, DVD, VCR. Great food next door. Prices range from $750 / week
to $1050 / week in season. Also available for weekend 2-3 day rentals. See Andy LePage at the Tacky Turtle.
TOMMY’S ON THE BEACH 2302 Beach Trail, 463-1976 - 3 Beach Units, not visible from Gulf Blvd. Built in the
60’s, it has been fully renovated with modern conveniences but still retains that “Old Florida Charm”. They have 2
upstairs 2BR units, and 1 downstairs 1BR unit. Full Kitchens. This place is Family and Pet Friendly.
THREE PALMS REALTY (Vacation Rentals) 309 Gulf Blvd. 596-0109 - Over 35 units available in IRB, almost all are
condos, most are beachfront. You can rent weekly, monthly or longer. Rates range for $70 to over $2000.
TROPICAL ISLES REALTY (Vacation Rentals) 2117 Gulf Blvd. 593-0744 - Condos, houses and cottages for rent.
Over 150 to choose from. 1, 2 &3 bd., some beach front, some with pools. Prices from $700 - $1700 weekly.
UNCLE MILT’S COURTYARD COTTAGES 701 Gulf Blvd. 595-8013 - 14 Units on the east side of Gulf Blvd. 1 and
2 bedroom units with full kitchens, cable TV and air conditioning. Rents from $270 (1Bd.) to $340 (2 Bd.) weekly.
ommodations and are subject to change.
April. The lower rates are normally Summer and Fall rates.
Sunset
View M
otel
INDIAN ROCKS BEACH NEIGHBORHOOD NEWSLETTER
FISHING AT ITS BEST!
There is no better time to fish our Suncoast waters than
the transition from the heat of summer to the milder
days of winter. The gradually cooling waters are like a
breath of fresh air to our local species while migrating
fish will also take up temporary residence in our area.
During this change of seasons, fish will feed heavily in
preparation for winter. To a fisherman, this is as good as
it gets. Inshore favorites, trout, redfish, and snook will be
prowling the grass flats in search of an easy meal. Once
the water really cools, they will retreat to deeper canals,
potholes, area
creeks and rivers.
Grouper and
snapper, our local
offshore favorites,
have spent the
summer well
offshore but will
start moving into
shallower waters.
This move inshore
should save
anglers valuable
travel time.
Amberjack, Tuna, Grouper, Snapper, and
Mahi aboard KO Kid
Another seasonal
favorite is the fall
run of king mackerel. It's an exciting time of big money
tournaments and just plain drag screaming action. This
is a large fish that anyone can enjoy catching. Light
tackle is the norm so young and old alike will have a
great time fighting this part time guest to our region.
The kings' smaller cousin, the Spanish mackerel, should
also be here in force and is another great reason to
take the family fishing. Take pictures and fire up the
grill!
As you can tell, this is a wonderful time to be fishing on
the Suncoast. I've only mentioned a few of the types of
fish that you can catch this time of year; but there are
many fishing articles in local newspapers to keep you
informed of what's biting on a timely basis. Local charter
captains fish almost daily and can be your best source
of information, as well as putting you right into the
action. Give us a call.
Thanks and great fishing, Capt Ken Orthner / KO Kid
fishing charters
INDIAN ROCKS BEACH NEIGHBORHOOD NEWSLETTER
IRB BUSINESS BRIEFS
New Surf Shop: The Lopez Surf Shop opened in July at
1311 Gulf Blvd. This is truly a family business. Pictured here
(L to R) Cory, Pete, Matt (13),
and Anne. Shea is in the photo
on the wall. Not pictured is
Ashley (16). Cory and Shea
were born and raised in IRB
and are nationally ranked
world-class surfers. Father, Pete
owns the building. Nice job
with the pavers in front of the
building, you have helped
improve the looks of our city.
Phoenix Grocery will be here
for another18 months, says the
owner & operator ABE. The
County bought the entire block including the BP Gas Station.
Roc’s Pizza and Ink & Steel Tattoos are already gone.
However, ABE says he will be open for awhile. The county
wants to turn it into a public access parking lot. That plan has
not been approved by the city.
Los Mexicanos Restaurant
opened in Aug at 301 Gulf Blvd
(the old Blackstones location).
This is the third restaurant in
Pinellas County for the Los
Mariachi's company with
owners Reyes Roman and son
Reyes Jr. Drop by for a cold
margarita and chips.
940 Gulf Blvd: DaVinci Condominiums will be rising where
Anchor Court used to be. Twenty-one 2 and 3 bedroom
resort condos, from 1800 to 2600 sq. ft. starting at
$890,000. Completion is scheduled for Nov. of ‘07. The
developer is Orion Communities. Sales 595-1604.
2711Gulf Blvd: New Condos for sale. Call 639-8398
2200 Gulf Blvd, previously Ace’s Patio, is scheduled to
become Avalar Condos, but it is not under construction yet.
Call 403-4598 for more information.
2500 Gulf Blvd: There’s
a new proposal for the
"Publix site". It is a mixeduse commercial &
residential development,
including commercial
space with a story of
condos above. Two other
residential buildings will face First Street. For more info call
the AG Armstrong company, 813.265.4500.
Sun Lovers Realty has a new office in Indian Rocks
Beach, next door to PJ’s Restaurant. Mike Gundofi and
Kathy Mensfield are running things. See their ad in this
newsletter.
Ocean Glen at Waterside,
690 Gulf Blvd has broken ground
at the site of the former RV park.
Waterfront condos townhomes
from the $600’s. Last chance for
pre-construction pricing. See
OceanGlen.com
for
more
information
2721Gulf Blvd: The old Portofino's / Nadia's / Alley
Cats / Yellow Fin Restaurant building is scheduled to
come down very soon. More condos? Rogers Beach
Development 447-8841
INDIAN ROCKS BEACH NEIGHBORHOOD NEWSLETTER
NEW AUTOMATED METERS LESS
INTRUSIVE FOR RESIDENTIAL CUSTOMERS
In July 2005, Progress Energy started installing automated
meters for 2.7 million residential customers in Florida and in the
Carolinas. The technology provides a less-intrusive meterreading process for customers, more accurate bills and fewer
estimated bills.
Customers will not be charged for the new meters, nor do they
need to be home during installation.
The $140 million project will benefit customers in many ways.
The new meters will be less intrusive because meter readers will
no longer need to enter customer property. Customers won’t
need to unlock their gates or keep their pets indoors on meterreading days. The new meters also will reduce human error,
which means customers will receive fewer estimated bills.
The new high-tech meters have digital displays, instead of dials,
and use secure radio frequency transmissions. Meter readers will
be able to gather information by driving near a home in a
vehicle equipped with a computer and a radio receiver.
The new meters are substantially more efficient, allowing meter
readers to do their jobs more quickly. The new meters also are
more accurate and are more difficult to vandalize. They are
safer for employees because they will reduce incidents such as
dog bites.
In Florida, the project started in July 2005 and will finish at the
end of 2006.
INDIAN ROCKS BEACH NEIGHBORHOOD NEWSLETTER
LOCK YOUR CARS
URGES PINELLAS COUNTY SHERIFF'S OFFICE
On June 7, 2006 five
Indian Rocks Beach
residents contacted the
Pinellas County Sheriff's
office and reported
burglaries to their
vehicles. Detectives say
the burglars targeted
cars that were unlocked and had valuables in plain
sight. Reports indicated that various items were taken
including money, a digital camera, sunglasses and CDs.
Detectives arrested Anthony Todd Clinton in connection
with the burglaries. Sheriff Detectives indicated that no
property was recovered during the investigation and
they believe Clinton was trading the stolen items for
crack cocaine.
Most auto burglaries are crimes of convenience. In the
June auto burglaries, detectives believe Clinton walked
along 20th Avenue pulling on vehicle door handles.
Once a vehicle was located that was unlocked, Clinton
stole items from the vehicle.
In order not to be a victim of auto burglary, residents
should close their cars windows and lock the doors,
remove valuables from the car or place them in the
trunk and park in well lit areas whenever possible.
INDIAN ROCKS BEACH NEIGHBORHOOD NEWSLETTER
THE IMPACT OF
TOURISM
By Pinellas County
Commissioner
Kenneth T Welch
As Pinellas County
Commission Chairman and
Chair of the Tourist
Development Council, I would
like to salute everyone who
contributes to our #1 success
story: helping visitors from all
over the world fall in love with
Pinellas County.
Why do people come? Primarily for our beaches, but
other factors include the safety of our area, quality
dining, the availability of both affordable and upscale
lodging, and perhaps most simply stated, the great
value of a Pinellas vacation.
The state of our tourism economy is strong: A few key bits
of data illustrate the strength of our tourism economy:
- Each year, more than five million visitors stay
overnight and the length of stay in the area averages
seven nights - almost twice the national average.
- With the extended stay, overnight visitors to the area
have the same impact as 18 million visitors to a typical
metropolitan destination.
- Annually, visitors spend more than 6 Billion dollars
with approximately 71% arriving by air and 26% driving
to Pinellas county.
- The Midwest and Northeast remain the area's primary
domestic visitor origin markets. However, in-state travel
continues to be an important segment. The UK,
Germany and Canada continue to be top international
markets for the area.
After many years of discussion, I'm pleased to report
that we are making significant progress on upgrading
one of our major tourism-related corridors - Gulf
Boulevard. Many accommodations are under
construction, or are in the process of, major
renovations. On Clearwater Beach, for example, nearly
$1 billion in construction is planned or underway. When
all construction is completed, 1,183 new hotel rooms
and 1,100 condominiums will be added to Clearwater
Beach.
Every segment of our local economy is touched by
tourism. Over the years, tourism has been the # 1
industry in Pinellas county.
- From 2000 to 2005, visitors contributed well over
$13 billion in direct impact to the local economy.
- Over 30% of our Penny for Pinellas sales tax is paid
by our visitors - that is the main source for capital
projects like bridges, buildings and parks for the County
and our Cities.
- Tourism is the area's # 1 employer, providing more
than 80,000 jobs to our citizens. These visitor-generated
wages are approximately just under $3 billion dollars.
Tourism enhances the local lifestyle, allowing our
residents to reap the social and cultural benefits of
interacting with people from all walks of life, and to
enjoy the hospitality industry's myriad of tasty offerings.
INDIAN ROCKS BEACH NEIGHBORHOOD NEWSLETTER
INDIAN ROCKS BEACH NEIGHBORHOOD NEWSLETTER
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RESTAURANTS & FOOD
Blue Marlin Sports Bar
593-2808
Brewmasters Steakhouse
595-2900
Coasters Bar & Grille
596-3332
Crabby Bills Seafood
595-0041
Europa Restaurant
593-3874
Guppy's On The Beach
593-2032
Hungry Howie's Pizza (Delivers) 596-1400
Jimmy Guana's / Holiday Inn
595-8356
Los Mexicanos Restaurant
596-5253
My Place
593-7040
Pizza Shack
596-6780
Sandy's Restaurant
596-6896
Sassy's Martini Bar
517-4141
TJ's Italian Cafe (Delivers)
596-1515
REAL ESTATE
Century 21 / Plumlee
595-7586
Countrywide Home Loans 593-0534 x 225
Imperial Real Estate
593-3008
Home & Estates
735-2201
House Hunters
586-3049
Sun Lover Realty
595-4000
Sun Star Realty
596-8200
HOME REPAIR & SERVICES
Cobblestone Construction
595-0914
Home Protection (Shutters)
548-1709
IRB Heating & Air Conditioning 596-1785
J&B Roofing
397-4702
Slaughter Plumbing
596-5663
BUSINESSES & PERSONAL SERVICES
Animal Hospital of Largo
595-2287
Beach Florals
596-1003
Body Concepts Gym
595-1234
Coast Bank, Walsingham-Largo 517-0683
German Imports Car Repair
596-1374
Indian Rocks Mini Storage
596-8678
FISHING, BOATING & WATER SPORTS
IRB Boat Rentals
432-9600
KO Kid Charters
581-0195
SCHOOLS
Coti School
517-0775
ENTERTAINMENT
Beach Arts Center
596-4331
Gulf Coast Art Museum
518-6833