Siesta Key Chamber members Pi Pizza 3.14 and Blase Martini Bar are hosting a fun new project this spring and inviting the community to get involved. 

Before the 20th century, Siesta Key was known as Little Sarasota Key or Sarasota Key and mostly uninhabited. The only way to get to the island was by boat or ferry. Finally in 1952, the island was named Siesta Key. Siesta continued to thrive and attract tourists; all while local residents and environmentalists have made huge strides to help maintain the beauties around. Siesta Beach is made up of 99% quartz which comes from the Appalachian Mountains. Even on the hot-hot days, the sand is reflective creating a cooling effect under your feet. 

An estimated 1-2 million tons of plastic end up in our oceans a year. Plastic pollution has affected all marine turtles, 59% of whales, 36% of seals and 40% of seabird species. Plastics take anywhere from 500-1000 years to degrade once disposed of. The Beach Act of 2024 aims to improve public health protection of all US Beaches. This act aims to improve identification of sources of pollution, directing EPA to support and encourage innovations in testing technologies, and clarifying that "nearby upstream shallow waters" that are "adjacent to or present on" beaches; all points originally made on the Beach Act of 2000.

Pi and Blase are committed to keeping Siesta Key's beaches clean while also recognizing the individuals who partake in this everyday project. Residents and visitors are encourage to be a part of the change and help improve our planet - one bucket at a time. 

Here's what YOU can do:

• Grab a pail and a grabber
• Fill the pail with litter/debris from our closest beach access
• Bring the full pail back to dispose of properly
• Receive your choice of a free draft BudLight or MillerLite OR a slice of cheese or pepperoni pizza. (One drink or slice per person)

William Dunn, Pi and Blase general manager noted, "This new give back project is one small way we plan on helping to aid Siesta Key's beaches. General trash and litter tends to come in great strides during Spring Break months especially. With this project, hopefully we can entice the local and tourist crowds to help keep that trash and litter to a minimum. We're excited to implement this new project and start making an impact to keep our beautiful beaches clean."