I came across this photo the other day and was immediately transported back to the first days of retirement down here on the island. I find the picture charming but also very illuminating to what is ‘going on’ down on that beach today.
The photo is from 2009. You can see the authentic untouched vibe of this special seashore that I like to refer to as ‘Little Beach’. We discovered this piece-of-heaven when we moved into our villa just one and half blocks away. The Professor and I have watched many a sunset, swam with the manatees, toasted to birthdays, and caught up with family, neighbors and friends – all while sitting on that beach, it is truly a sanctuary.
The 2nd photo is of the same beach but made a bit glamorous by the wealthy California girl who built a huge house on the property adjacent to the beach. She was a character and brought colorful characters into the script of the neighborhood. No disrespect there.
But today is a much different scene. Cali Gold Girl has since moved on and Mid-West Tyrant Bee Atch Woman has moved in and … gasp… has put up ropes and pillars right down to the water’s edge claiming the beach AS HERS! What? I can’t even… Such contemptuous conduct.
I am dumbfounded for the first time in a long time. I cannot fathom why anyone would act in that manner. Or would take an aggressive action like that meant to prevent anyone from enjoying the splendor of such a magnificent creation. I don’t care what creed you follow, I am almost certain that there isn’t one of them that would welcome that kind of behavior.
It breaks my heart that money, greed and power have permeated my Little Beach. It was a place of peace. Over the years, I have spoken to many a native of these parts, ones who grew up on the beach, and they have all concurred this beach to be a special almost sacred place.
I don’t know what’s next, I guess we will just have to wait and see what the Universe has in store.
Thank you so much for sending me your thoughts. It has really helped me know I am on the right side. I will be taking a petition to the beach. All of us that have been here over 5 years have an earned right to an easement and she must take down the the garbage. The rest of us have the right as the public to walk along the coastline. Lets take back our beach!
Thanks for the comments DJ. We’re flabbergasted too, and hope to do something about it. taking pictures of the tidelines every day and will call the county on this. encourage your readers to make a stink about it. loved your book, by the way.
Jim
We published an online petition on change.orgsarasotacountyparks on Monday and now Saturday it has 4,400+ supporters, 17,400 views and over 1,600 shares. I have sent the parks dept the link and these figures. Please check mit out and spread the word. It’s on fire on social media.
Jim and Barb – your efforts were well won! It takes a village to go against greedmongers and City Hall! Great job. D.J.