Issue link: https://newsleader.uberflip.com/i/92622
Sarasota News Leader November 9, 2012 sota News Leader on Nov. 2. "They have such an impressive program," she said of Mote's ini- tiatives to help sea turtles. "It's so moving. … It's an honor to actually be able to contribute to that." BEHIND THE SCENES This year, for the first time in the event's his- tory, the Siesta Key Chamber of Commerce has been shouldering the responsibilities for the Crystal Classic. Maria Bankemper, incom- ing chairwoman of the chamber, has been working side-by-side with Gaddie as the other co-chairwoman for this event. Bankemper is general manager and principal of MPL Lodgings, the owner and operator of the Best Western Plus Siesta Key Hotel on South Tamiami Trail. Gaddie owns CG De- signs, an award-winning interior design firm. While managing their work, they have been marshaling their team of volunteers and chamber employees to make sure every detail on the planning end has been addressed. They do not want the Page 26 "It's very much appreciated," Gaddie said, "and very much community spirit. … It's amazing how people can come together." During the regular meeting of the SKVA mem- bers on Nov. 6, Gaddie thanked everyone for their support but made it clear more volun- teers are welcome. People still can sign up on Mote's website. With rain pouring down, she predicted — accurately, as it turned out — that the skies would clear by early afternoon so the sculpt- ing that began earlier in the week could con- tinue. The event's hours are set from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Thursday through Sunday. We have artists from all over the world and beautiful sand and they show us what they can do with it. Cheryl Gaddie Co-chairwoman Crystal Classic sand sculptors to worry about anything but the details in those towering designs, they say. "Nobody has any idea how hard volunteers work to make these events happen," Gad- die told the News Leader. At the same time, she pointed out, she cannot say enough good things about the help the team has received from businesses and residents, as well as the Siesta Key Association and the Siesta Key Vil- lage Association. The awards will be presented Sunday after- noon, Nov. 11, she noted. Wigelsworth told the News Leader the categories are Judg- es' Choice, Sculp- tors' Choice, People's Choice and the Mote Award. During the Nov. 1 SKA meeting, cham- ber Chairman Mark Smith pointed out that the improved transportation plans this year should make it easier for people to come to the key to see the sculptures. Visitors are encouraged to park at Phillippi Estate Park, 5500 S. Tamiami Trail, then take shuttle buses to Siesta. The buses will run from 9 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. on Saturday, Nov. 10, and Sunday, Nov. 11. The cost is $5 per vehicle per day.