The 19th Edition of the Suncoast Dixieland Jazz Classic continues in the fine tradition of Dixieland Fun in the Florida Sun. The Sheraton Sand Key Resort and Marriott Suites on Sand Key will be transformed into the headquarters hotel for this year's Jazz Classic.

The festival runs Friday through Sunday, Nov. 20 - 22nd and will feature bands such as Titan Hot Seven, Wally’s Warehouse Waifs, St. Louis Stompers, Mighty Aphrodite Jazz Band, Cornet Chop Suey, Bill Allred’s Classic Jazz Band, Dave Greer’s Classic Jazz Stompers, Red Lehr’s Powerhouse Five, Wolverine Jazz Band, the Dixie Chaps, Naples Dixieland Jazz Band, the Original All Stars, Palm City Jazz, Pepper and Fine Thyme and Valerie Gillespie Trio.

Cost: Friday or Sunday $40, Saturday $50. Weekend badge $100.
Sheraton Sand Key Resort 1160 Gulf Blvd., Clearwater
Marriott Suites on Sand Key, 1201 Gulf Blvd., Clearwater
Call 536-0064 or visit www.JazzClassic.net for more info.

Sand Key Restaurant Named Best Taste Of 2009

Congratulations to the winners of the 20th Annual Taste of Clearwater.

Best Themed Booth - Sand Pearl Resort Caretta's on the Gulf
Best Entree - Salt Rock Grill for their Crab Cake
Best Appetizer - Sand Pearl Caretta's on the Gulf for their BBQ Oysters
Best Dessert - Oaks of Clearwater for their outstanding Pumpkin Bread Pudding
Best Beverage - Great Bay Distributors for the Gordon Blersch Beer

Best of Taste 2009 (The Peoples Choice) - Watercolour Steakhouse and Grill located at the Marriott Suites on Sand Key.

Sand Key Shoppes Zoning Decision Delayed

With a 3-3 split vote, the re-zoning decision will wait. It was standing room only at the 5 hour public hearing yesterday where 100 people had to watch the meeting via video from the 2nd floor of city hall because the main event was at capacity. The huge turnout was due the the "Save Our Shoppes" coalition, opposed to any re-development that would lead to the demise of their stores and restaurants, who chartered a bus to get as many residents as possible to the hearing. The current owner claims to have no interest in tearing down the Shoppes, but is seeking to have the zoning changed to "tourist" which could potentially lead to redevlopment, perhaps even a 100+ plus room hotel or condo tower. This can of worms was opened by a potential buyer who's contract has recently expired, but the city wants it settled and kept the hearing on the agenda - maybe they figure it's only a matter of time before there's another suitor. After 5 hours of citizen oposition, the community develpment board cast a vote of 3-3. On March 3rd the deciding vote will be cast by the 7th member who was not in attendance. The recommendation will then be fowarded to city council.

Shoppes of Sand Key Still a Question

While the Marriott's option to purchase the Shoppes of Sand Key property has expired, the Community Development Board will still address the rezoning issue on January 15th. Marriott has expressed continued interest, but perhaps at a lower price. The Sand Key Civic Association is encouraging everyone to attend the meeting to address concerns about the potential project.

Voice Your Opinion On Shoppes Zoning Change

The prospective new owner, who also own the neighboring Marriott, is requesting that the zoning be changed to "tourist". It is currently zoned as business. Both allow similar use, but different different density restrictions. The owners have expressed interest in replacing the Shoppes with another hotel building. Citizens are concerned about losing thier shops and restaurants, and also about the height of the building should the owners decide to add more hotel units. They could add as many as 125 units. The Community Redevelopment Board will meet on December 18th to discuss the issue. Citizens can voice their opinion by emailing steven.everitt@myclearwater.com.

Sand Key Shoppes in Jeopardy

The owners of the Sand Key Marriott are looking into the possiblity of replacing the Shoppes on Sand Key with hotel rooms. The Marriott owners currently have an option to purchase the neighboring property and are considering many things, including adding boat slips behind the existing hotel. Replacing the retail area with hotel rooms will require rezoning. The issue is expected to be put before the Clearwater City Council in January.