VOL 19 No. 40
- Named Best Florida Newspaper In Its Class -
July 17, 2019
George Wilson Jr. lived a legendary life
The celebration of life for George Wilson Jr. will begin on the deck of the Anna Maria General Store at 6 p.m. on Monday July 22. BY JOE HENDRICKS SUN CORRESPONDENT | jhendricks@amisun.com
ANNA MARIA ISLAND – Anna Maria Island lost a beloved friend and local character when 67-year-old George Cameron Wilson Jr. passed away on Monday, July 8. Wilson worked at the Anna Maria General Store in Anna Maria and lived in Holmes Beach with his roommates Lisa O’Connell and Rick Weaver. According to General Store owner Brian Seymour, who was out of town at the time, Wilson started feeling sick on Saturday, July 6. He came to work the following day not feeling well and went home. Wilson was hospitalized Monday and passed away later that day. “He was at the hospital for about four or five hours, and his heart stopped four times before they pronounced him dead,” Seymour said. As of Sunday, an autopsy report was still pending, and the exact cause of death remained unknown. “The great thing is that George lived every day of his life. He didn’t have to be taken care of, he wasn’t in a home and he wasn’t under treatment for cancer or anything like that,” Seymour said. “He was the first associate I hired. He was working for the previous owner SEE WILSON, PAGE 18
SUBMITTED
George Wilson raises a glass at the wedding of good friends Morgan and Ben Bryant.
Shark dragging trial moved to September BY JOE HENDRICKS SUN CORRESPONDENT | jhendricks@amisun.com
TAMPA – Robert “Bo” Benac is now scheduled to stand trial on Monday, Sept. 16, for his alleged role in a muchpublicized shark dragging incident captured on video in 2017. The trial will be held at the Hillsborough County Courthouse in Tampa. Benac faces two third-degree felony
INSIDE NEWS 3 LETTERS TO THE EDITOR 6 TURTLES 16-17 OUTDOORS 22-23 WEDDINGS 25-26 REAL ESTATE 30-35 CLASSIFIEDS 37-39
charges of aggravated cruelty to animals and a second-degree misdemeanor charge of violating rules relating to the Fish and Wildlife Conservation Benac Commission. Benac was previously scheduled to stand trial in June, but his trial date was delayed. Benac was among a group of local men captured
lives on in the heat of an AMI summer. 9
ART
Anna Maria Island, Florida
on self-shot video footage that showed a shark being dragged behind a power boat at a high rate of speed on June 26, 2017. The criminal affidavit report filed in December 2017 referenced additional video footage that alleged Benac shot a shark with a .38 caliber handgun. The Florida Administrative Code prohibits harvesting a shark using any other means than a hook and a line.
Video footage of Benac’s alleged shark shooting incident recently appeared on several news organization websites and Facebook feeds. In February, co-defendant Michael Wenzel reached a plea deal with the state attorney’s office after he elected not to stand trial for his role in the alleged events.
THE Bradenton Beach Sunshine Law
trial gets underway. 15 SUN staffers win seven statewide
awards. 3 The Island’s award-winning weekly newspaper www.amisun.com
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Sun staff wins seven state awards BY CINDY LANE SUN STAFF WRITER | clane@amisun.com
ST. PETERSBURG – Anna Maria Island Sun staffers earned seven awards in the 2018-19 Florida Press Association Weekly Newspaper Contest at the 2019 Florida Media Conference on July 12. Awards include general excellence, online breaking news and defense of the First Amendment. First place in the First Amendment Defense category (the Jon A. Roosenraad Award), competing against Florida newspapers of all sizes, went to Joe Hendricks for “Sunshine lawsuit,” beat coverage of Bradenton Beach litigation surrounding a city committee’s alleged violations of the Florida Sunshine Law. The judges commented, “These articles are filled with detail, depth and factual information on what was a no question hyper-important situation in this local government. I felt this was done very well, and the extent of coverage itself was a proof of the paper's desire to protect the First Amendment and hold government official accountable. Great overall work in this category, especially when compared to other entries.” First place in Online Breaking News Coverage, competing against Florida news-
paper websites in all circulation categories, went to Digital Editor Cindy Lane and reporters Joe Hendricks and Kristin Swain for “Surf shop fire” at the iconic West Coast Surf Shop in Holmes Beach. The judges commented, “Well done. Thorough reporting. I like the way you labeled and added the update.” First place in Original Local Editorial Cartoon went to Sun political cartoonist Steve Borggren for “Gas Mask,” picturing Southwest Florida wearing a gas mask during a persistent bloom of red tide last summer. The judges commented, “Just one glance and this one quickly tells the whole story.” Second place in General Excellence went to The Anna Maria Island Sun staff for overall excellence in reporting, photography and design. The judges commented, “A paper willing to express opinions on local issues, in addition to having a good selection of letters to the editor and a local editorial cartoonist. Plus a reader survey question with results displayed in a colorful pie chart graphic. Solid coverage of local events and issues like a duck hunting controversy (and editorial)... Nice index across bottom of Page 1 to lead readers inside. Good advertising enterprise around "Newspaper In Paradise" content. More local sports would be nice.”
Judge's Comments “... articles are filled with detail, depth and factual information on what was a no question hyper-important situation in this local government. " “Just one glance and this one quickly tells the whole story.” “Nice piece on the power of being a good fisherman.” Second place in Agricultural and Environmental Reporting went to Cindy Lane for “Oil drilling in the Gulf,” a series tracking the progress of an ultimately victorious state constitutional amendment to ban oil and gas drilling in state waters. The judges commented, “This series studies looming oil exploration in local waters with detailed coverage about what’s planned, possible impact and legislative efforts to restrain a petroleum juggernaut. Diligent reporting keeps readers informed.” Second place in the Outdoor and Recreation category went to Cindy Lane for
“Fishermen to cast vote against net ban,” a series about the ultimately unsuccessful effort of commercial fishermen to get a state constitutional amendment passed overturning the 1995 gill net ban. The judges commented, “Solid reporting on a story that has a strong impact on the community and state of fishing.” Third place in the Outdoor and Recreation category went to Reel Time columnist Rusty Chinnis for “Show them the courtesy,” tips of the trade for fishing courteously. The judges commented, “Nice piece on the power of being a good fisherman.”
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ISLAND NEWS
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JULY 17, 2019
IN BRIEF
HBPD reports July 4 numbers It was a busy July 4 holiday week for Holmes Beach police officers. Over the extended holiday weekend, from July 4 to July 7, Holmes Beach Police Chief Bill Tokajer said that the city’s license plate recognition system counted more than 234,000 vehicles entering the city from the Anna Maria Island Bridge on Manatee Avenue and across East Bay Drive. The system recorded 1,993 suspended driver’s license notices, 1,380 expired license plates, 548 expired driver’s licenses, 51 stolen tags and two stolen vehicles over the holiday weekend. “Not everyone who comes on the Island is a welcome guest,” Tokajer said. He added that there were no larcenies, no vehicles broken into and no arrests that came out of the LPR system due to other issues that officers needed to deal with, such as policing the beach. He said that he will use the data when speaking with Manatee County officials to request monetary assistance with policing the beaches.
Former chair leaves planning commission The Holmes Beach Planning Commission has one more vacancy with the resignation of former chairman Charles Stealey. During the July 10 meeting, Stealey announced his immediate resignation from the Planning Commission due to the unexpectedly quick sale of his Holmes Beach residence. Stealey said that he is moving to Bradenton and will therefore be unable to continue on the board due to the Holmes Beach residency requirement. It will be up to city commissioners to select either a candidate from the applications already received for the Planning Commission or to open the application process back up to the community to fill Stealey’s unexpired term. To enquire about joining this board, contact the city clerk’s office at 941-708-5800.
Chamber to gather The Anna Maria Island Chamber of Commerce will hold its Business Card Exchange at Anna Maria Beach Resort, 6306 Gulf Drive, Holmes Beach from 5 to 7 p.m. on Wednesday, July 24. There will be food, drinks a raffle and an opportunity to network with business leaders. The cost is $5 for Chamber members and $10 for prospective members. For more information, call the Chamber at 941-778-1541.
JOE HENDRICKS | SUN
When opened to the public, the floating dock will provide boater access to the Anna Maria Oyster Bar and the Bridge Street business district.
Floating dock installation begins The floating dock first contracted in early 2017 is finally coming to fruition. BY JOE HENDRICKS SUN CORRESPONDENT | jhendricks@amisun.com
BRADENTON BEACH – The longdelayed floating dock is now in the initial stages of being installed alongside the Bridge Street Pier. A four-man crew from the Gibsonton-based Hecker Construction Company drove the first fiberglass composite dock pilings on Wednesday, July 10. The crew is using pile-driving mechanism connected to a mobile crane that sits atop the floating work barge. The new dock will replace the stormdamaged dock that was removed in 2016. Co-funded by the Bradenton Beach Community Redevelopment Agency (CRA) and Manatee County, the new floating dock will provide short-term dockage on a first-come, first-serve basis for recreational boaters visiting the pier and the Bridge Street business district. The floating dock will also provide limited, short-term dockage for tour boats, water taxis and other commercial vessels for loading and unloading passengers. “They’re out there working on it,” CRA chair Ralph Cole said at the July
JOE HENDRICKS | SUN
These construction crew members helped guide the pilings into place. 10 meeting. “I’m excited.” Without providing a specific completion date, Cole said Hecker’s Operations Manager, Eric Shaffer, told him the company’s goal is to get the dock installed as soon as possible. The Hecker bid proposal, approved by the CRA members in early May and finalized in June, includes agreement language drafted by City Attorney Ricinda Perry that gave Hecker six weeks to complete the project once the dock pilings were delivered. The agreement includes a $500 per day penalty if the project is not completed on time. The pilings arrived at the county barge dock near the Coquina South
Boat Ramp during the last week of June. “I’m really happy to see this project coming to completion. We had some unfortunate circumstances and delays, but we overcame that through the efforts of our city staff and our city officials. I can’t wait to use it,” CRA member and Vice Mayor Jake Spooner said later in the week. The Anna Maria Oyster Bar leases the city-owned restaurant space and two smaller city-owned spaces at the foot of the historic Bridge Street Pier. “A gorgeous view for sure,” Oyster SEE DOCK, PAGE 29
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City’s annual financial audit reviewed The city clerk’s office reached a financial auditing goal first envisioned in 2015. BY JOE HENDRICKS SUN CORRESPONDENT | jhendricks@amisun.com
BRADENTON BEACH – The city recently received its annual financial audit report for the 2017-18 fiscal year. On June 18, auditors Randy Dillingham and Jeff Gerhard met with the city commission to review their audit of the city’s fiscal year budget for the period that began on Oct. 1, 2017 and ended on Sept. 30, 2018. The resulting 34page report provided a detailed overview of the city’s financial condition at the conclusion of the fiscal year. Dillingham said the city had a little more than $1.7 million in general fund assets at the end of fiscal year 2017-18 and $203,000 in short-term financial liabilities that included employee wages and accounts payable. This left the city with slightly more $1.48 million in its general fund to carry forward into the current fiscal year that will end on Sept. 30. Dillingham said the city had enough money in reserves to cover approximately 40 percent of its annual expen-
JOE HENDRICKS | SUN
Working with the city commission, Deputy Clerks Christine Watson and Ruth Stief, City Clerk Terri Sanclemente and City Treasurer Shayne Thompson administrate the city’s finances. ditures. The auditors recommend keeping at least 25 percent of the general fund in reserves to cover anticipated expenses during the gaps in ad valorem tax collections. For coastal communities, they recommend closer to 40 percent in case the city experiences
a hurricane or major storm related emergency.
FUND VARIATIONS
“The general fund decreased this year, which means you had expenditures in excess of revenues of $375,379.
You had planned on using about $455,000 of reserves, so you’re actually under the amount you thought you would spend,” Dillingham said. “We had some specific reasons for this. This year you had excess attorney fees.” City Treasurer Shayne Thompson said the city’s attorney fees were $165,000 to $170,000 more than budgeted. The city incurred a significant portion of those fees via the 2017 Sunshine Law lawsuit that’s now headed for trial this month. If the city prevails in court, the judge could allow the city to recover a portion of its attorney fees from the defendants. If the city loses in court, the judge could allow the defendants to recover a portion of their attorney fees from the city. Thompson said the other major contributing factor in the general fund decrease was the timing differential between stormwater fee collections and stormwater project payments. This anticipated differential was created a few years ago when the city decided to transfer its stormwater SEE AUDIT, PAGE 8
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OPINION
The Anna Maria Island Sun newspaper Island Sun Plaza, 9801 Gulf Drive P.O. Box 1189 Anna Maria, FL 34216-1189 Phone: (941) 778-3986 email: news@amisun.com | ads@amisun.com | classifieds@amisun.com
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JULY 17, 2019
GUEST COLUMN Tighter control of horses needed I appreciate your article in the Anna Maria Island Sun dealing with potential health concerns of horse fecal matter on the Palma Sola Causeway. In fact, your article also brought up for me another concern in addition to horse poop. I initially expressed my concerns by written letter to Ward 1 Bradenton City Councilman Gene Gallo in February. He sent me a short reply basically saying, "Tough luck ol' boy," the horse folks are on state right of way, and no one around here has any jurisdiction. These horses have become a real problem for those of us who wish to fish on the north side of the Causeway. At 76 years old, my wife Lucy, and I enjoy only a few activities, and wade fishing on the Causeway is fun for us, for we are also catching food for the dinner table. Unfortunately, due to red tide and bans on keeping our fish of choice, we've retired the rods until the ban is lifted. My concerns/gripes follow: What started as a one-horse trailer some time ago has expanded to three trailers, meaning more horses in the water. Lucy and I were fishing one day a few hundred yards west of the trailers with about 20 yards of line in the water. I saw several horses coming our way, and as they were getting closer, I tried to wave them off for obvious reasons. The lady in the lead was starting to invade our space, and I told her we were fishing. She smiled, turned around towards the others and made an arm gesture to continue forward. They started to run over our lines. I screamed at them, took another rod and tried to cast a plug at them, and it hung up in the rod (thank goodness – I didn’t want to hurt anyone but I was angry). When they realized my anger, they turned around and went back the way they came, and the sea grasses that the horses trodded over, perhaps 20 feet from the shoreline, broke loose and the surface of the water was filled with grass cuttings. The water no longer looked pristine; it was a mess. No apology from the lead horsewoman was forthcoming. It was like she owned the place. And yes, there is horse poop in the water. It’s getting to where folks have to fish only on the south side of the Causeway when the horses are there. I feel like these farmers/ranchers with horses are increasingly taking advantage of the situation, and I’d like to see their enterprise kept within a minimum area – truly I’d like to see them gone. If anything, they could be more respectful of their surroundings and the other folks that also want to enjoy the north side of the Causeway. Only very seldom do you see families parked on the north side with kids playing in the water. The news is out – it's probably not safe. Is the one or two ranchers and some tourists more important than the multitudes who enjoy the Causeway? The north side is basically dead to us who live here, as well as the tourists who spend their vacation monies in several neighboring businesses. The horse folks make money from the tourists, I assume. Yes, some tourists are obviously happy about that, but you don't see them swimming in that water! My wife and I simply love the Causeway, and we truly enjoy our home close-by in Azalea Park. We all had better start taking more of an action-related stand towards our water resources in these days of uncertain climates. Simply waiting for bacterial samples to reach an acceptable level while continuing to indulge in the practices that likely resulted in high bacterial counts should be unacceptable for all folks who genuinely care about our environment. Edward (Ed) Segerson Bradenton
LETTERS TO THE EDITOR
Carpe Diem: George C. Wilson, Jr. George Wilson Jr. lived every day in the present moment. He was a friend to many, including countless strangers. He lived life to the fullest all the way until his last breath. To see the world through George’s eyes was to see the world beautifully and simply. George could be down to his last dollar, but it didn’t matter to him because life was so much more to him than just money and possessions. George put his energy and time in people and experiences. You could always count on George to be punctual and to show up with a big “Hey mon” or “Yo mon,” kinda attitude. He smiled often and laughed even more. No matter what kind of day you were having, if you ran into George your day would instantly change – and he would be sure to put a smile on your face. George knew exactly how to be real with you and live totally in the moment. The past wasn’t important, nor was the future. In a world today that is self-absorbed, having a friend like George was a real rarity. If you needed someone to call in the middle of the night, it was definitely George. You could count on
him to answer the phone no matter what time it might be and no matter how many drinks he had the night before! You could always count on him to be there for you. He was a person that would jump out of bed every morning to seize the day – a true carpe diem kind of person. His days usually started at 5 a.m. and didn’t end until midnight. You could find George at numerous restaurants around Anna Maria Island, indulging only at the finest of establishments. He loved to eat great food – after all, he was Italian. He loved to drink coffee first thing in the morning, and then later in the day move on to his favorite drinks: Tito’s, soda and fresh fruit or an Appleton Estate rum and Coca Cola. If you ever want to know how to enjoy life just remember how George lived it. And if you didn’t get a chance to meet this wonderful person, I am certain you can find someone on Anna Maria Island that will be more than happy to take the time to tell you about George and what he meant to them. We love you George and always will. Ben Bryant Holmes Beach
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Two new faces join planning commission BY KRISTIN SWAIN SUN STAFF WRITER | kswain@amisun.com
HOLMES BEACH – The city’s Planning Commission has two new members. Greg Kerchner and James McIntire were sworn in by City Clerk Stacey Johnston during the planning commission’s July 10 meeting. Kerchner will serve until July 1, 2020, replacing Sylvia Harris who requested to move to an alternate position. McIntire replaces former Commissioner Jayne Christenson, serving until July 1, 2021. “Welcome to you both,” Commissioner Charles Stealey said. “We’re glad to have qualified people on the board.” “I’m looking forward to working with you all,” Kerchner said. “I’m glad to be part of the team,” McIntire said. Also sworn in during the meeting were Commissioners Scott Boyd and Sylvia Harris. Harris will serve as an alternate and Boyd is beginning his second term as a planning commissioner. Both have terms that expire July 1, 2022. Harris said that being a part of the Planning Commission is “an exciting thing to do for the city” and that she’s happy to be serving as an alternate. The meeting served as the group’s organizational meeting. Boyd was unanimously elected as the chair for the 2019-20 year.
ON THE AGENDA ANNA MARIA 10005 GULF DRIVE
For information, call 941708-6130 July 25, 6 p.m. – City Commission meeting July 31, 10 a.m. – Historic Preservation Board meeting
BRADENTON BEACH 107 GULF DRIVE N.
For information, call 941778-1005 July 18, 11 a.m. – Pier Team meeting July 18, 6 p.m. – City Commission meeting
Commissioner Jim Kihm congratulates Mayor Judy Titsworth, presenting her with a certificate of completion for training with the Advanced Institute for Elected Municipal Officials in conjunction with the Florida League of Cities. KRISTIN SWAIN | SUN
July 23, 10 a.m. – City Commission work meeting July 30, 10 a.m. – Community Redevelopment Agency budget workshop
HOLMES BEACH 5801 MARINA DRIVE
For information, call 941708-5800 July 23, 6 p.m. – City Commission meeting with work session to follow July 25, 11:30 a.m. – Police Retirement Board meeting July 31, 10 a.m. – Code Compliance Special Magistrate hearing
MARK YOUR CALENDAR NOTE: EVENTS ARE FREE UNLESS INDICATED.
THURSDAY KRISTIN SWAIN |SUN
City Clerk Stacey Johnston swears in new Planning Commissioners Greg Kerchner and James McIntire along with returning Commissioners Scott Boyd and Sylvia Harris. “I appreciate the nomination and look forward to serving as your chair for the next year,” Boyd said. Commissioner Barbara Hines was unanimously elected as vice chair after McIntire, who was nominated, refused the nomination in preference of a senior member of the Planning Commission. After the organizational meeting concluded, talks turned toward the recently opened bids for a request for proposal (RFP) to assist the Planning Commission with an update to the city’s comprehensive plan. Johnston said that Eron Wasserman with LTA Engineers had taken over the task of developing a ranking form for the five bidding
firms and that a meeting to evaluate the five bids will likely be held some time in August. On the review committee are city Commissioner Carol Soustek, Wasserman, Treasurer Lori Hill, Human Resources Specialist Mary Buonagura and a member of the Planning Commission. Planning commissioners voted unanimously to allow Boyd to represent their interests on the review committee. Once the bids are ranked by the committee in an open meeting, Johnston said the recommendation will go before planning commissioners in September and then to city commissioners for final approval.
JULY 18
Veteran services information, Island Branch Library, 5701 Marina Drive, Holmes Beach, 9 a.m. Building Boat Models: flat bottom skiff, The Folk School at Florida Maritime Museum, 4415 119th St. W., Cortez, 9:30 a.m., $136. Roser-Robics chair-based exercise class, Roser Church, 512 Pine Ave., Anna Maria, 9:30 a.m. "Mad Science: Up, Up, and Away!", Island Branch Library, 5701 Marina Drive, Holmes Beach, 10 a.m. Sunshine Stitchers knit and crochet, Island Branch Library, 5701 Marina Drive, Holmes Beach, 2 p.m.
FRIDAY JULY 19
Congratulations
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Forty Carrots, Island Branch Library, 5701 Marina Drive, Holmes Beach, 10 a.m. Mahjong, Island Branch Library, 5701 Marina Drive, Holmes Beach, 11:30 a.m. Sunset drum circle, Manatee Beach, 4000 Gulf Drive, Holmes Beach, 5 to 8 p.m.
SATURDAY JULY 20
Nest Nature Days, Robinson Preserve, Mosaic NEST, 10299 9th Ave. N.W., Bradenton, 9 a.m. to noon. Meditation with Sheryl, Island Branch Library, 5701 Marina Drive, Holmes Beach, 11 a.m. Island Family Crafters: Galaxy Craft Workshop, Island Branch Library, 5701 Marina Drive, Holmes Beach, 1 p.m.
SUNDAY
July 21 Beach market, Coquina Beach, 2650 Gulf Drive S., Bradenton Beach, 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Rise and Shine power flow yoga, Robinson Preserve, Mosaic NEST, 10299 9th Ave. N.W., Bradenton, 10:30 a.m., $10 cash only.
TUESDAY JULY 23
Roser-Robics chair-based exercise class, Roser Church, 512 Pine Ave., Anna Maria, 9:30 a.m. Preschool story time, Island Branch Library, 5701 Marina Drive, Holmes Beach, 10 a.m. Mahjong, Island Branch Library, 5701 Marina Drive, Holmes Beach, 11:30 a.m. Tech help, Island Branch Library, 5701 Marina Drive, Holmes Beach, 2 p.m.
WEDNESDAY JULY 24
Living Shorelines, The Folk School at Florida Maritime Museum, 4415 119th St. W., Cortez, 10 a.m., $13. Coloring Club, Island Branch Library, 5701 Marina Drive, Holmes Beach, noon. AMI Chamber July Business Card Exchange, Anna Maria Beach Resort, 6306 Gulf Drive, Holmes Beach, 5 p.m., $5 per member or $10 per prospective member. Fun downloadables, Island Branch Library, 5701 Marina Drive, Holmes Beach, 6:30 p.m.
SEE CALENDAR, PAGE 14
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Business tax for rentals removed Commissioners voted 4-1 to remove the requirement for residential rental units to obtain a business tax receipt. BY KRISTIN SWAIN SUN STAFF WRITER | kswain@amisun.com
HOLMES BEACH – In a 4-1 vote, with Commissioner Carol Soustek dissenting, commissioners agreed July 9 to do away with the requirement for owners of residential rental units to have a business tax receipt (BTR)in favor of strengthening the requirements for the city’s vacation rental certificate program. The issues of BTR processing costs and time was brought to the attention of commissioners by City Clerk Stacey Johnston via Mayor Judy Titsworth in June. According to a report submitted by Johnston, due to the lengthy application processing procedures required by the state and the city for the BTRs, the city was actually losing money on the program with
JULY 17, 2019
AUDIT: Reviewed FROM PAGE 5
regard to residential rentals. At $31.90 per unit, Johnston said the incoming funds weren’t enough to cover the staff time required to research, verify and process applications and renewals. She added that with the amount of rental properties requiring BTRs, the task of handling applications and renewals is too much for one person with other responsibilities and continuation of the program would require the hiring of another staff member. City Treasurer Lori Hill spoke to commissioners in favor of eliminating the BTR requirement for residential rental units, including short-term, monthly and annual rentals. To give commissioners some type of oversight with regard to monthly rentals, she suggested instituting a type of vacation rental program for monthly rentals. If VRCs for short-term rentals were instituted at $427 per unit every other year and the city charged $280 per unit for monthly rentals every other year, Hill said commissioners could expect a $150,000 increase in revenue over
the monies collected through the current VRC and BTR programs. Hill estimates the annual revenue to the city through a combined VRC to be $274,813. In order to institute a VRC requirement for monthly or annual rentals, City Attorney Patricia Petruff said the commission would have to draft and adopt a new program with requirements specific to those types of rentals. She said that city leaders could not simply lump other types of rentals into the existing VRC program and have different requirements or charge different application and renewal fees. Holmes Beach Police Chief Bill Tokajer said that he would come back to commissioners with a proposal for a VRC program for monthly rentals. He said that it would be beneficial to public safety to have regular inspections of monthly rentals. Commissioners agreed to continue the discussion of the possibility of a VRC program for monthly an annual rentals at a future meeting.
fee collections to Manatee County. Thompson said this should be the final year the billing conversion impacts the budget. “It was a planned event,” Thompson said. “It was deficit spending in another person’s opinion,” Thompson said in reference to an unnamed critic. Dillingham said the city collected $41,942 more than originally budgeted and spent $27,031 less than originally budgeted for its general fund. The Community Redevelopment Agency collected $279,418 more than it spent, and Tingley Memorial Library expenditures exceeded revenues by $31,608.
ACCOUNTING PRACTICES
Gerhard said the auditors did not identify any deficiencies in the city’s internal controls and found no instances of non-compliance with accounting laws, rules and regulations. “This is the best report we can give in the audit standards,” Gerhard said. Reading from the report,
Gerhard said, “Corrective actions have been taken to address findings and recommendations made in preceding annual financial audit report.” He then said, “In the past couple of years we’ve had a comment about the number of journal entries. That’s gone down over the past couple of years, and this year we got down to the level where we felt that comment was no longer warranted. That’s good news.” He later said, “Great job of ironing out all those deficiencies.” “Sounds great to me,” Mayor John Chappie said. “I just want to say how proud I am of my staff. We all worked really hard for this,” City Clerk Terri Sanclemente said. “This is something I’ve been working for since 2015, when I became city clerk. I couldn’t do it without our staff.” Thompson thanked the auditing team and the city’s accounting firm and said, “It didn’t happen in a vacuum.”
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JULY 17, 2019
THE SUN
Art lives on in the heat of summer BY TOM VAUGHT SUN STAFF WRITER | tvaught.com
On the heels of the Fourth of July’s fireworks, Holmes Beach’s art community proved Friday that they could draw a crowd with an out-of-season Art Walk. With tropical depression Barry bearing down on Louisiana and warm humid weather on Anna Maria Island, three of the seven regular art outlets opened their doors, and soon their stores were bustling with people. Art Walks are normally held the second Fridays of the month from January through April, but in May the Artist’s Guild of Anna Maria Island announced it would continue though the summer and other participants were free to join in. Island Gallery West and Restless Natives joined in. Lyda Dicus, of Restless Natives, decided to take it a step further, putting tables and chairs out front so people could paint pottery and there were a lot of promising artists participating. “I think it’s a success because it got a lot of people out participating,” she said. “I think I’m going to do it again at the next Art Walk.” If it draws the amount of people as interest last Friday’s, the Art Walks might become a year ‘round event.
TOM VAUGHT | SUN
Clockwise from above: Island Gallery West drew a good crowd as the customers had an opportunity to speak to the gallery's artist of the month, Patrick O'Neill, at right. Adina and Lida Dicus at Restless Natives sold pottery that buyers colored in front of the store.
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Dolphins still dying from recent red tide BY CINDY LANE SUN STAFF WRITER | clane@amisun.com
Red tide is suspected of killing 177 dolphins over the past year in southwest Florida, according to the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA). Elevated bottlenose dolphin mortalities have occurred in Manatee, Sarasota, Collier, Lee, Charlotte, Hillsborough and Pinellas counties since the bloom of the red tide organism Karenia brevis began in November 2017, according to NOAA, calling it an unusual mortality event. The bloom affected Gulf of Mexico waters around Anna Maria Island from August 2018 to February 2019, and has reappeared sporadically in background concentrations since then. Other species including fish, sea turtles and manatees also are dying because of the ongoing harmful algal bloom, according to NOAA. The last time a similar event happened was in 2005-06, when red tide killed about 190 dolphins in the region.
NOAA estimates about 12,388 dolphins live in the Gulf of Mexico from the Big Bend area of Florida south to Key West. More than 200 bottlenose dolphins have become stranded on Gulf beaches from Florida to Louisiana – the area of the Deepwater Horizon oil spill – since Feb. 1, according to NOAA. The causes are still under investigation. If you find a stranded, dead or sick dolphin, call NOAA’s emergency strandings number at 1-877-WHALE HELP (1-877-9425343) or contact the U.S. Coast Guard on VHF Channel 16.
DOLPHIN DO’S AND DON'TS
• Don't push the animal back out to sea! Stranded marine mammals may be sick or injured. Returning animals to sea delays examination and treatment and often results in the animal re-stranding in worse condition. • If the animal returns to the water on its own, DON’T attempt interact with it (swim with, ride, etc.). • Do put human safety above
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Mondays - Fridays
during lunch for a limited time Located inside Waterline Marina Resort & Beach Club 5325 Marina Drive, Holmes Beach, FL 34217 elizaanns.com | 941.238.6264
animal safety. If conditions are dangerous, do not attempt to approach the animal. • Do stay with the animal until rescuers arrive, but use caution. Marine mammals can be dangerous and/or carry disease. Keep a safe distance from the head and tail. Do not touch the animal and avoid inhaling the animal’s expired air. • Do keep its skin moist and cool by splashing water over its body. Use wet towels to help keep the skin moist and prevent sunburn. • Don't cover or obstruct the blowhole. Try to keep sand and water away from the blowhole. • Do keep crowds away and noise levels down to avoid causing further stress to the animal. • Do report all dead marine mammals, even if they are decomposed, to 877-WHALE HELP (877-9425343). • Do keep dogs/pets away from the live or dead marine mammal. • Don't collect any parts (tissues, teeth, bones, or gear, etc.) from dead animals. They are still covered by the Marine Mammal Protection Act.
JULY 17, 2019
Algae lets up BY CINDY LANE SUN STAFF WRITER | clane@amisun.com
Blue-green algae and red tide have both subsided in Manatee County, according to the latest state environmental agency reports. Conditions in the Manatee River are back to normal after two months of blue-green algae that tested negative for toxins that affect people, according to the Florida Department of Environmental Protection (DEP)’s Friday, July 12 report, which noted that the Braden River still has a slight green tint. Red tide was not present in water samples taken in Manatee County last week, according to the Friday, July 12 Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC) report, although background concentrations were identified in Sarasota and Lee counties. Blue-green algae called Filamentous cyanobacteria (Lyngbya-like) was first detected on May 9 in Anna Maria Sound at Key Royale, in the Intracoastal Waterway south of Grassy Point and in Palma Sola Bay near San Remo Shores. To help keep algae growth at bay, Florida law bans the use of phosphorus and nitrogen fertilizers during the rainy season, June 1 through Sept. 30. Report algae blooms to DEP at 855-305-3903. Report fish kills to FWC at 800-636-0511.
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New manatee and sea turtle decals out Coming soon to a bumper near you are the new manatee and sea turtle decals from the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC). The Warm Water Saves Manatees decal shows several manatees gathering in a spring. Florida manatees require warm-water refuges to survive the winter months, as they can’t endure water temperatures below 68 degrees. The Keep on Swimming sea turtle decal shows a Kemp’s ridley turtle hatchling. Kemp’s ridleys, the world’s rarest sea turtle, rarely nest in Florida, but many spend most of their lives in Florida waters, where marine debris can have a negative impact on them. About 6,000 manatees swim in
the state’s coastal waters, rivers and freshwater springs, and about 20,000 sea turtles nest each year on Florida’s Atlantic and Gulf coast beaches. Purchase of the $5 decals support research, rescue and management efforts that conserve these species and spread the word about the challenges they face.
The waterproof decals are designed to look good on a vehicle’s bumper or the side of a boat, and they can also be found on laptops, water bottles and coolers throughout the state. Get yours when registering or re-registering a vehicle or boat at local tax collectors' offices across the state.
Learn more about how to help conserve manatees and sea turtles at MyFWC.com/Manatee and MyFWC.com/ SeaTurtle, where you also can click on “Decals” to order new or past editions of decals. You can also support these species by purchasing a Save the Manatee or Helping Sea Turtles Survive license plate at your local tax collector’s office. For additional information, visit the Fish & Wildlife Foundation of Florida’s website at widlifeflorida.org. To report an injured, entangled or sick manatee or sea turtle, call FWC’s Wildlife Alert Hotline at 888-404-FWCC (3922).
Surf campers hit the beach The West Coast Surf Shop summer surf camp is underway in Holmes Beach just south of Manatee Beach. If you see surfers in the water, steer clear while they learn to carve the waves. CINDY LANE | SUN
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Island-to-mainland trolley service a hit BY TOM VAUGHT SUN STAFF WRITER | tvaught@amisun.com
HOLMES BEACH – Manatee Area Transit (MCAT) was ready for the Fourth of July traffic this year, but the Island apparently had fewer vehicles to contend with, according to Manatee County Information Outreach Manager Nicholas Azzara, “Independence Day crowds, we believe, were healthy but maybe smaller than expected for several reasons, from threatening weather to concerns for waterborne illness,” he said. “MCAT’s pilot route to AMI during the Independence Day weekend was successful in the sense that it was a good trial run for our drivers.”
MCAT ran more routes on the Island and offered free trolley service onto and off of the Island, on Manatee Avenue to 75th Street in Bradenton for three days to mitigate the tendency for cars to stop on Manatee Avenue headed west during season and on good beach days. Azzara said they will continue to deal with the traffic problems. “MCAT is likely to revisit extended hours, route frequency and park-andride routes on holiday weekends,” he said. We think the more that service is offered, the more people will learn about it and use MCAT as a way to avoid driving onto the Island when crowds peak.”
Tweens invited to explore marine habitat Kids between 8 and 12 years old can broaden their knowledge of the marine habitat at the Manatee Marine Explorers Day Camp on Friday, Aug. 9, from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. The camp was created by two University of Florida Institute of Food and Agricultural Sciences Extension agents, who will show kids what is like to be a marine scientist. “There is so much more to the ocean than what you can see on the surface,” said Angela Collins, a UF/IFAS Extension Manatee County agent and co-organizer of the camp. She and fellow Manatee County UF/IFAS Extension agent, Michelle Atkinson, will introduce attendees to the diversity of marine
life that may be less familiar than dolphins or sea turtles. “We plan to have more hands on activities for the kids this year,” Atkinson said. “We will be discovering how to collect a water sample, filtering water samples, taking a nature walk, kayaking and dip netting.” With the camp being held at Emerson Point this year, campers will be seine and dip netting to see what lives in our sea grasses. Registration is capped at 25 participants and will close Aug. 4. Activities will be held at Emerson Point on Aug. 9. The camp fee is $25. For registration and more information, go to https://tinyurl.com/ManateeMarine
JOE HENDRICKS | SUN
Makeover The Anna Maria Island Historical Museum has a new look. The museum’s exterior is now sky blue instead of the salmon color it’s been in the past. Also new are the wooden rocking chairs that grace the front porch facing Pine Avenue. The AMI Historical Museum tells the history and story of Anna Maria Island. Located at 402 Pine Ave. in Anna Maria, museum hours are currently 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. on Monday through Friday. Admission is free. Learn more at www.amihs.org.
JULY 17, 2019
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JULY 17, 2019
Skate park design nears completion Designs for the Holmes Beach Skate Park are almost complete with final rendering expected during the July 23 meeting. BY KRISTIN SWAIN SUN STAFF WRITER | kswain@amisun.com
HOLMES BEACH – The preliminary designs are in for the city’s new cement skate park, but funds are still needed to construct the bowl addition. Tito Porrata, lead designer and project manager with American Ramp Company, and City Engineer Lynn Burnett presented the preliminary designs for the promenadestyle skate park and accompanying bowl. Porrata said the skate park would be a beginner to intermediate street-style course featuring ramps, rails, stairs, triangles, banks, hips and a quarter pipe. “All the basics within a modest size,” he said of the design. The promenade section of the skate park is planned to be about 5,000 square feet. Though Porrata said the course is good as-is, he highly recommended adding the Y-shaped bowl he designed to accompany the skate park to make it complete. To build the bowl, the city is still seeking a donor or multiple donors to help raise the $100,000 additional funds needed for the structure. If the bowl is to be built, construction has to take place at the same time the rest of the skate park is built to keep the cost of the addition low. If built, Porrata said the bowl would be about 3 1/2 to 4 feet deep and stick out of the ground about 3 feet. “If a donor happens, this bowl is
SUBMITTED | LYNN BURNETT
This rendering shows what the Holmes Beach Skate Park could look like without the bowl. Funding is still sought to build a Y-shaped skate bowl over a retention pond along Marina Drive.
ready,” he said. Commissioners nodded their approval of the designs and Mayor Judy Titsworth took the opportunity to ask that anyone considering helping to fund the bowl contact her at city hall. “I hope you guys like it,” Porrata said of the skate park designs. “It’s going to be really fun.” Final design deliverables for the skate park are expected during the July 23 commission meeting.
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THE SUN
MARK YOUR CALENDAR From Page 6
THURSDAY JULY 25
Veteran services information, Island Branch Library, 5701 Marina Drive, Holmes Beach, 9 a.m. Roser-Robics chair-based exercise class, Roser Church, 512 Pine Ave., Anna Maria, 9:30 a.m. Star Stories: Greek Myths with Katie Adams, Island Branch Library, 5701 Marina Drive, Holmes Beach, 10 a.m. End of Summer Reading Party, Island Branch Library, 5701 Marina Drive, Holmes Beach, 11 a.m. Seaside Quilters, Island Branch Library, 5701 Marina Drive, Holmes Beach, 2 p.m. Folk and Shanty Music Workshop, Florida Maritime Museum, 4415 119th St. W., Cortez, 2 p.m. Jam in the Sand, Anna Maria Island Beach Café, 4000 Gulf Drive, Holmes Beach, 5 to 8 p.m.
FRIDAY JULY 26
Forty Carrots, Island Branch Library, 5701 Marina Drive, Holmes Beach, 10 a.m. Mahjong, Island Branch Library, 5701 Marina Drive, Holmes Beach, 11:30 a.m. Sunset drum circle, Manatee Public Beach, 4000 Gulf Drive, Holmes Beach, 5 to 7:30 p.m.
SATURDAY JULY 27
NEST Nature Days, Robinson Preserve, Mosaic NEST, 10299 9th Ave. N.W., Bradenton, 9 a.m. to noon. CPR Training, Island Branch Library, 5701 Marina Drive, Holmes Beach, 9 a.m. Island family crafters, Island Branch Library, 5701 Marina Drive, Holmes Beach, 1 p.m.
SUNDAY JULY 28
Beach market, Coquina Beach, 2650 Gulf Drive S.,
JULY 17, 2019
Loving Christ • Sharing His Grace • Serving All Bradenton Beach, 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Rise and Shine Power Flow Yoga, Robinson Preserve, Mosaic NEST, 10299 9th Ave. N.W., Bradenton, 10:30 a.m., $10 cash only. Reserve to 941-742-5923 or aedan. stockdale@mymanatee.org.
TUESDAY JULY 30
Roser-Robics chair-based exercise class, Roser Church, 512 Pine Ave., Anna Maria, 9:30 a.m. Preschool story time, Island Branch Library, 5701 Marina Drive, Holmes Beach, 10 a.m. Mahjong, Island Branch Library, 5701 Marina Drive, Holmes Beach, 11:30 a.m. Tech help, Island Branch Library, 5701 Marina Drive, Holmes Beach, 2 p.m.
COMMUNITY CHURCH
Call for a ride to the 10:00 AM Worship Service
SUNDAY WORSHIP 8:30 AM IN THE CHAPEL or 10:00 AM IN THE SANCTUARY 10:00 AM Nursery
8:45 AM Adult Sunday School
A NONDENOMINATIONAL, CHRISTIAN CHURCH • EVERYONE IS WELCOME!
512 Pine Ave • Anna Maria
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941-778-0414 • www.RoserChurch.com • www.facebook.com/RoserChurch
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Sunshine trial gets underway The civil trial is expected to last all week. BY JOE HENDRICKS SUN CORRESPONDENT | jhendricks@amisun.com
BRADENTON – The Sunshine Law lawsuit involving the city of Bradenton Beach and six former city advisory board members is underway. The civil trial began Monday. The suit was filed in 2017 on behalf of the city and co-plaintiff Jack Clarke. It alleges that former Planning and Zoning Board members Reed Mapes, John Metz, Patty Shay and Bill Vincent violated the Florida Sunshine Law by discussing past, present and potential board business at Concerned Neighbors of Bradenton Beach meetings in July and August of 2017. The lawsuit alleges similar Sunshine Law violations were committed by Scenic WAVES Committee members Tjet Martin and Rose Vincent. The trial is expected to last all week and possibly conclude on Friday. Attorney Robert Watrous is representing the city and Clarke in this case, assisted by City Attorney Ricinda Perry and paralegal Michael Barfield. At-
MEDIA POOL PHOTO | SUBMITTED
Left, Defendants Reed Mapes, Bill Vincent, Rose Vincent (obscured) Patty Shay, Tjet Martin, attorney Jodi Ruberg (obscured) attorney Thomas Shults and defendant John Metz sat side by side as the trial began. Right, City resident Jack Clarke, Mayor John Chappie, City Attorney Ricinda Perry, paralegal Michael Barfield and Attorney Robert Watrous sat together at the plaintiffs’ table. torney Thomas Shults is representing Metz, assisted by attorney Jodi Ruberg. The other five defendants are representing themselves. Twelfth Judicial Circuit Court Judge Edward Nicholas is presiding over the bench trial, and he alone will determine the innocence or guilt of the six defendants. The trial is taking place at the Manatee County Judicial Center in downtown Bradenton. The trial began with Watrous and Shults seeking rulings on pretrial motions and other legal housekeeping matters.
When seeking a motion regarding the alleged spoliation of evidence, Watrous accused the defendants of intentionally withholding information during the pre-trial discovery process – including a recording of the July 14 CNOBB meeting that Shults did not provide Watrous until the day after Metz’s July 2 deposition. During that CNOBB meeting, Mapes initiated discussion on a quasi-judicial land use issue that was currently before the Planning and Zoning Board regarding the Bridge Tender Inn’s Dockside Bar seating capacity.
Nicholas denied the preliminary motions and said he would take them under advisement individually as the trial moves along.
OPENING STATEMENTS
During his opening statements, Watrous said the city’s legal team has compiled a large amount of information that be believes supports the allegations. The evidence includes email exchanges, audio recordings of SEE SUNSHINE, PAGE 33
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CINDY LANE | SUN
Watch out for turtles Kids from Anna Maria Elementary School designed and created these signs at the dune walkovers at Cortez Beach to help educate beachgoers about sea turtle nesting and hatching, in progress each year from May 1 to Oct. 31. The signs are a project of Anna Maria Island Turtle Watch and Shorebird Monitoring, Manatee County and the Sarasota Bay Estuary Program.
Turtle talks continue Get the scoop on sea turtles at Turtle Talks, presented by Anna Maria Island Turtle Watch and Shorebird Monitoring volunteers. The 30-minute program of videos, photos and stories about the sea turtles that nest and hatch on the Island from May through October includes a description of how they survey for nesting turtles on the beaches. Attendees will be the first to know the dates, times and locations of upcoming nest excavations, where volunteers dig into hatched nests to count the eggshells and determine the number of hatchlings produced. Free gifts, including temporary turtle tattoos, will be distributed, and official AMITW T-shirts, stickers and ball caps will be available for a donation.
SCHEDULE:
Tuesday, July 23 and 30, 10 a.m., CrossPointe Fellowship, 8605 Gulf Drive, Holmes Beach.
CINDY LANE | SUN
Sea turtle nesting and hatching season continues through Oct. 31.
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SEA TURTLE CONSERVANCY | SUBMITTED
Where’s Bortie Too? Bortie Too has laid her second nest on Anna Maria Island at 66th Street in Holmes Beach, Anna Maria Island Turtle Watch and Shorebird Monitoring Director Suzi Fox says. According to her satellite tag tracking chart, Bortie Too checked out Siesta Key beach as a prospective nesting spot first but stopped short of coming ashore and swam back to Anna Maria Island, where she laid an earlier nest on June 21. The loggerhead sea turtle has traveled 129 miles since being tagged and released after nesting on Coquina Beach last month. She will compete in the Sea Turtle Conservancy’s 12th Annual Tour de Turtles beginning Aug. 1. The annual event is part of the Conservancy’s research project tracking satellite-tagged turtles to determine where and how far they migrate. The group uses satellite telemetry to track turtles released from beaches in Florida, Costa Rica, Panama and Nevis. Bortie Too is sponsored by the Conservancy, Anna Maria Island Turtle Watch and Shorebird Monitoring, Waterline Marina Resort in Holmes Beach and Bortell’s Lounge in Anna Maria, for which she is named.
TURTLE TIPS
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During sea turtle season, May 1 – Oct. 31, follow these tips: • Turn off lights visible from the beach and close blinds from sundown to sunrise; lights confuse nesting sea turtles and may cause them to go back to sea and drop their eggs in the water, where they won’t hatch. Light can also attract hatchlings away from the water. • Don’t use flashlights, lanterns or camera flashes on the beach at night. • Remove all objects from the sand from sundown to sunrise; they can deter sea turtles from nesting and disorient hatchlings. • Fill in the holes you dig in the sand before leaving the beach; they can trap nesting and hatching
sea turtles, which cannot live long out of the water. • Don’t use wish lanterns or fireworks; they litter the beach and Gulf. • Do not trim trees and plants that shield the beach from lights. • Never touch a sea turtle; it’s the law. If you see people disturbing turtles, call the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission’s Wildlife Alert hotline at 888-404-FWCC (3922).
BIRD TIPS During bird nesting season, March through August, follow these tips: • Never touch a shorebird chick, even if it’s wandering outside a staked nesting area.
• Teach kids not to chase birds – bird parents may abandon nests if they’re disturbed. • Don’t feed birds – it encourages them to fly at people aggressively and is not good for their health. • If birds are screeching and flying at you, you’re too close. • Avoid posted bird nesting areas and use designated walkways to the beach. • Keep pets away from bird nesting areas. • Keep the beach clean; food scraps attract predators such as raccoons and crows to the beach, and litter can entangle birds and other wildlife. • If you see people disturbing nesting birds, call the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission’s Wildlife Alert hotline at 888-404-FWCC (3922).
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WILSON: A legendary life FROM PAGE 1
and he was the only associate I kept when I bought the store in 2010.” At the time, Wilson also worked as a substitute teacher at Lee Middle School in Bradenton, which he did until he retired from teaching. “He was my nighttime guy, working the register, greeting customers, making sandwiches, stocking the shelves – he pretty much did it all. He wasn’t just an employee, he was probably my best friend on the Island,” Seymour said. “He was sometimes misunderstood, but if you got to know and love George you’d find out he was fiercely loyal. He was fiercely loyal to making sure kids had a good experience at the store. He liked to take care of the fish tank, and he’d teach kids all about the fish. “There was no one more dedicated and loyal to the success of the business than George. He would show up early every day, never called out and he was always talking about the business and trying to grow the business. And he, by far, had the most repeat visitors who came in here year after year asking for him,” Seymour said.
CELEBRATING GEORGE’S LIFE
A celebration of life will take place on the deck of the Anna Maria General Store at 503 Pine Ave. from 6 to 8:30 p.m. on Monday, July 22. at 8:30 p.m., Wilson’s friends will walk down to the bay and place flowers in the water. At 9 p.m., the celebration will resume at D Coy Ducks in Holmes Beach. Seymour started a GoFundMe page – “In memory of George C. Wilson” – for those who wish to assist with the costs for Wilson’s celebration of life.
CHILDHOOD FRIENDS
Dave Cochran is the general manager at the Rod & Reel Pier in Anna Maria. “I’ve known George as long as I can remember. We’re from the same hometown, I knew him growing up in New Castle, Penn.,” Cochran said. Cochran said Wilson attended Youngstown State University in Ohio and graduated with a bachelor of science degree in education in 1976. He then spent
the next year teaching at inner-city schools in Houston, Texas. Through the 1980s and 90s, Wilson worked as a performance and executive recruiter in Dallas, Texas, as a sales manager for the Northern Light Company in Pittsburgh, as a sales and operations manager for Environmental Resources Inc. in Wampum, Pa. and at a consulting, sales and marketing group in Hermitage, Pa. Cochran said at some point after 1996, Wilson became a substitute teacher in the New Castle/Wilmington/Shenango area, and he did that until he moved to Anna Maria Island in 2003 or 2004. “He took a vacation in Key West and was on his way back to Pennsylvania because he’d gotten a teaching job in Pittsburgh. But he decided he was going to stay here, and he didn’t take the job,” Cochran said. “George was a free spirit that made everyone feel good and happy around him. Everybody loved George. He’ll be missed by all,” Cochran said.
MIKE FIELD | SUN
Clockwise from above, Lisa O’Connell, George Wilson Jr. and Rhonda Gula attended a Paul McCartney concert together. Now living in Mexico, longtime Island resident and visitor Dee Brady loved spending time with George. Anna Maria General Store owner Brian Seymour considered George to be much more than an employee. Sal Orteca, Morgan Bryant, Ben Bryant and George Wilson Jr. enjoyed the D Coy Ducks’ Christmas party and ugly sweater contest last year, which Wilson won. FACEBOOK | SUBMITTED
FRIEND OF THE BRIDE
Wilson became close friends with Holmes Beach residents Morgan and Ben Bryant. “He was definitely a one-of-a-kind person. Everybody loved him. He came to be part of our family. We’d have him over for Christmas and things like that. And Ben and George went for coffee almost every morning,” Morgan said. “Then we had our son, Finn, and Finn started going to coffee with them, so they’d have a little men’s group. George never had kids of his own, so he wasn’t sure how to act around Finn at first, but they grew to love each other and he became Finn’s Uncle George,” Morgan said. “George was a groomsman in our wedding. We didn’t have a honeymoon planned. After we got married, George and the group from the General Store were going on a cruise, so we ended up honeymooning with George,” she joked.
BEST BUDDIES
“George was friends with my stepdad, Tim Sullivan, who passed away four years ago. Tim and George hung out at Bortell’s, and George would come over for family
MORGAN BRYANT | SUBMITTED
BRIAN SEYMOUR | SUBMITTED
get-togethers when I was younger. I’ve known George for probably 15 years,” Ben Bryant said. “During the last four years we hung out every day. He was my lunch buddy and my coffee buddy. I also have a property in California, and George came to work on the farm last year. We were knocking off some bucket list items,” Ben said. Ben was flying to California the day Wilson died. “I had just landed in Sacramento, and I started getting calls from the ICU because I was his healthcare surrogate. The doctor
was asking me when was the right time to stop giving him cardiac support and CPR. I just got back to yesterday, so it’s all becoming real,” Ben said on Sunday. When asked what he’ll miss most about Wilson, Ben said, “His honesty and realness and living in the present moment. It’s rare to find people who live for the present day and who are so open and sharing. “We’d drink together and George could definitely hold it down, even at 67. This celebration of life is going to be a stellar event. It will feel like George is there,” Ben said.
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George Wilson Jr. missed and mourned by many News of George Wilson Jr’s passing provoked expressions of love from those who knew and loved him. BY JOE HENDRICKS SUN CORRESPONDENT | jhendricks@amisun.com
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ANNA MARIA ISLAND – The news of longtime Island resident George Wilson Jr.’s July 8 death spread quickly on Anna Maria Island and beyond – and the responses to this news were rapid and rapturous. Anna Maria Mayor Dan Murphy said, “George Wilson will be missed by our Island community. He was always up, always cheerful. Not only did he serve as an ambassador for our city and our Island community, he was also a stellar example of customer service for the young associates with whom he worked.” Anna Maria City Commissioner Carol Carter said, “With George, what you saw was what you got – a kind, gentle, warmhearted, unassuming man who lived his life to the fullest. So many of us just called him ‘my friend’ and we will miss him dearly.” D Coy Duck’s bartender Brad Lisk said, “George had an eccentric personality with a heart of gold. If you got him, you loved him. If you didn’t, your loss. Either way, he was an Island personality that will be greatly missed. Much love, Mr. Wilson!” Former Island resident Dee Brady said, “I knew George for over 20 years. We became music buddies, lunch buddies and travel buddies – and he loved Mexico. He drove me crazy at times, but you couldn’t help but to love his infectious humor. He would do anything for anyone. This is a huge loss for the Island.” Anna Maria resident Laurie Jo Higgins said, “Some people call their best friend or go to the bar after a bad day. Me, I would go see George at the General Store before closing for advice or to vent. He always had my back and would make me laugh and feel better. When I was at my sickest, he noticed I was not eating and sent cookies home with my kids. I loved his sarcasm and wit. I’m sure going to miss my friend. God broke the mold when he made George.” Anna Maria resident Cheri Sackett said, “George was a kind and wonderful soul with an electric smile. The Island truly lost a friend.” At Sackett’s Facebook page, Wilson’s friend Linda Burrelli Doren wrote, “George and I go back almost 40 years and just recently reconnected on Facebook. How he loved life and his friends on AMI. This is indeed a sad day.” On his own Facebook page, Wilson went by the name ‘Jorge Suave.’ There, Caitlin Annette, wrote, “My heart aches so much right now and even more because I’m not there. Words can’t describe the person you were – the cooler than cool, the outright hilarious kid at heart. You were a major part of why I loved the General Store so much. You have been my biggest supporter the past three years, and it meant more to me than I think I ever let you know, and for that I am so sorry. Cheers to all the nights at Bort’s, to all the days at the store, to all the rides on the golf cart. May you rest in peace – or show up to the best party, thrown just for you. Forever my love Georgie.” Tom Powers wrote, “Man we were just chillin’ in the kitchen on Saturday afternoon eating chicken wings together. Now who’s going to get all excited when they come in and see that I’m cooking. Didn’t think it would hit me this hard; even though were not real close in age, you are a great friend Jorge Suave.” Amy Kinder wrote, “My heart hurts so much, this doesn’t even feel real. I will miss listening to your stories, laughing and dancing with you. I know you will forever be watching over me as you always promised you would! No one has ever had quite an effect on me in my life as you did. You truly touched my soul and I will miss you terribly. Thank you for the timeless memories, forever and always.”
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JULY 17, 2019
941.779.2337 9:00 AM - 10:00 PM 7 DAYS A WEEK 5344 3 GULF DRIVE, HOLMES BEACH
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OUTDOORS
JULY 17, 2019
Line and leaders Reel Time RUSTY CHINNIS
W
hen anglers talk tackle, the conversation is usually centered on rods and reels, lures and accessories. While these make up the largest part of the fisherman’s arsenal, lines and leaders are a critical component of the equation. The major choices of line fall into three categories: braid, monofilament, and fluorocarbon. While fluorocarbon, monofilament and braided lines were created to spool reels, fluorocarbon is most often used as a leader material. Each has its advantages and disadvantages and anglers should choose them based on their fishing style and use. Monofilament has been around for
decades and is probably the most commonly used line. It has many advantages and a few disadvantages that will affect the anglers’ choice. Chief among its advantages are affordability and the fact that it sinks slowly and is more forgiving (stretches), making it less likely to break when shocked. Its disadvantages include the fact that is less durable, has a larger diameter and can’t be cast as far. Braided lines have made significant inroads since their introduction in the early 90s. They are constructed of a special blend of polyethylene fibers. Some brands are wound loosely while others are fused. Braided lines are extremely durable, with no stretch. The unfused lines are generally suppler, while the fused ones are stiffer but less likely to wrap around guides and form knots during casting, one of the disadvantages of braided lines.
RUSTY CHINNIS | SUN
Your fishing day will be more productive when you have confidence in your line and leader. SEE REEL TIME, PAGE 23
:LOG 0DQDWHHV 7+(< $5( )$67(5 7+$1 <28 7+,1. 7+(< $5( )$67(5 7+$1 <28 7+,1.
DPLGROSKLQWRXUV FRP
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Weather conditions challenging CAPTAIN DAVE WHITE
Conditions this last week made things a bit challenging for us here at Anna Maria Charters. Dodging storms and scheduling according to the radar was the game plan. Some clients got wet, some didn’t. Offshore wasn’t even a possibility with large swells rolling in off of the Gulf, so we focused our efforts inshore. With a lot of freshwater runoff, there are definitely areas we avoid to keep our pilchards from dying off in the bait well. Redfish, black drum, snook, mangrove snapper, Spanish mackerel and juvenile tarpon are all obtainable species in our area right now. High incoming
tides in the morning hours have us focused on the mangroves and mangrove overhangs for snook and redfish. Docks and shrimp are the ticket for the black drum right now, while fishing the reefs in Tampa Bay are producing snapper, mackerel and the occasional gag grouper. The juvenile tarpon take a bit more work. Locating these critters can be a bit of a chore. But these guys are awesome on light tackle. They are finicky though. Sometimes you have them rolling all around you and none will eat. The weather this week looks awesome. We have a busy week offshore; we hope you get out there and take advantage.
CAPTAIN DAVE WHITE | SUBMITTED
8-year-old Raleigh Zeller, of Wimberley, Texas, proudly shows off a redfish caught with Captain David White, of Anna Maria Charters.
REEL TIME: Lines and leaders FROM PAGE 22
When using braid it's important to be aware that no loops form on your reel, a sure sign of trouble to come. It’s also wise to raise the rod tip to tighten (and take the slack out) the line after a cast and before retrieving. Braided lines are much stronger than mono lines and pound for pound they have a much smaller diameter. Most anglers choose to go with a matching line test (i.e. smaller diameter line) and add a base of mono on the spool. That way you don’t have to use extra braid that will never see the light of day. The fact that braided lines don’t stretch makes them more sensitive for anglers when fishing. This
makes it easier to feel a bite and to set the hook on a fish. This is a big advantage when bottom fishing and targeting fish with subtle bites. It’s important when tying knots like wraps that you take additional wraps with the smaller diameter, slicker braids. Fluorocarbon lines are more expensive, and while it was intended as a filler line, most anglers use it primarily for leader. It has a number of advantages over monofilament line. The most important being that it is less visible in the water. In addition, it is denser, which makes it sink faster and is more abrasion resistant. The abrasion resistance is important for fish like tarpon and snook.
There are so many lines and variations on the market that it would take a book to cover them all. Whatever line you choose, carefully seat all knots. This is especially true with braids. Whatever line is used wet knots and seat them firmly with pliers. Monofilament and fluorocarbon lines also come in colors. Red is popular because it’s the first color to disappear at depth in the water column. There is a lot of information on the internet, but probably the best advice would be to seek out local knowledge from anglers and tackle shops and try the different lines to see which suits your fishing style.
GRADY-WHITE’S NEW LUXURY SPORTFISHING YACHT
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6040 Gulf of Mexico Drive, Longboat Key 941-383-1311
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SPORTS
JULY 17, 2019
Moss Builders shut out Island Vacation Properties BY MONICA SIMPSON SPECIAL TO THE SUN
This summer’s indoor soccer action at The Center includes two skill levels and age group divisions: Intermediate (five- to nine-year-old) and Advanced (10- to 14-year-old). In the first game of the third week of play the intermediate teams of Moss Builders and Island Vacation Properties faced each other in 40 minutes of rapid-fire action. Dylan Sato started the play for Moss Builders. Immediately, Maddie Kimmons showed what a defensive powerhouse she is for Island Vacation Properties. Sato brother Brandon made a nice reaching attempt to stop the soccer ball, but just could not quite get to it. Six minutes into the game, Moss Builder’s Jackson Titen made a nice shot attempt. Teammate Mason Moss hit a rocket shot that was stopped by Kimmons, playing by the net. D. Sato made a shot attempt that went just right of the post seven minutes later. Island Vacation Properties made a great run down the field before being stopped by Moss. With three minutes left on the scoreboard, Moss made another shot attempt, finding Kimmons away from the goal. Despite what looked to be domination on the field by Moss Builders, the first half of play ended with the score 0-0. Island Vacation Properties started the second half play. Camden Rudacille made a nice pass down the line.Kimmons was caught off guard allowing the first Moss Builders’ goal. Implementing the three-line rule, teammate are required to touch a long pass before it crosses the third critical line down the court. After a near own goal by Moss
MONICA SIMPSON | SUN
Moss Builder's intermediate level team dominated the indoor pitch last Tuesday night at The Center. Builders, Brandon Sato shot the Moss team’s second goal of the game. Moss followed two minutes later with another ball in the net, pushing the score to 3-0. The Moss Builders team put its fourth goal on the board less than three minutes later. Miles Moss worked with his team on the court allowing big brother Mason a clear shot over everyone’s heads for the team’s fifth goal. Mason Moss hit another perfect shot for the final point of the match
with a little more than four minutes left in the game, to end with the score 6-0.
SUN SCOREBOARD TUESDAY, JULY 9 YOUTH INDOOR SOCCER INTERMEDIATE LEAGUE
Island Vacation Properties Moss Builders
0 6
Solid Rock Construction Ugly Grouper
0 3
YOUTH INDOOR SOCCER ADVANCED LEAGUE Ugly Grouper G&G Yardscaping
1 5
AMI Locals G&G Yardscaping
3 5
JULY 17, 2019
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The Sandbar Pavilion makes the difference Adjacent to the historic Sandbar restaurant is the Sandbar Pavilion. Weddings and events at the Sandbar Pavilion are recognized worldwide as award winning and unique. With breathtaking sunsets, exceptional customer service and outstanding food, the Sandbar venue has, for decades, attracted couples celebrating their special day. You too can say your vows on the sugar sand beach in this incredible place. For multiple years, couples of “The Knot” have voted the Sandbar venue top ceremony and wedding site. Readers of weddingwire.com have given the Sandbar the Brides Choice Award continuously. Designated as one of the top venues for destination weddings and special events on the west coast of Florida, The Sandbar Pavilion can comfortably seat 150 plus guests under the pavilion with additional seating along its perimeter. Innovative menus offer a wide variety of locally sourced and sustainable seafood dishes, land fare and fresh produce grown at the restaurant’s own farm. The Sandbar’s expert culinary team is happy to customize a menu unique to any style or size event. Sandbar Event Sales Manager Kim Lemke, who has coordinated hundreds of weddings, will be with you throughout the planning and event stages providing you a list of preferred vendors to help make all of your wedding day dreams come true. For information on hosting a special event at the Sandbar Pavilion contact Kim Lemke, 941-757-3737, klemke@ chilesgroup.com. Follow it on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram and Pinterest. Search reviews on The Knot, and Weddingwire or see photos on the website www.islanddining.com.
OPEN DAILY 7 AM - 9 PM
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JULY 17, 2019
Courtney Canady and Jon Bailey were married at the Sandbar restaurant on June 21, 2019. Chuck Caudill provided the music. Jim Harwood, Molly Powers and Bailey, of the Sandbar, coordinated the wedding and reception. Courtney and Jon went on a honeymoon cruise to the Caribbean before returning home to Cumming, Ga. DARA CAUDILL | WWW.ISLANDPHOTOGRAPHY.ORG
Brandy and Matthew Haid celebrated their 11th wedding anniversary with their children Izabella, 8, and Garrett, 5, with a trip to Anna Maria Island. They were married on June 20, 2008, at the Sandbar restaurant. Chuck Caudill provided the music. The Haid family currently reside in Hurricane, W. Va.
DARA CAUDILL | WWW.ISLANDPHOTOGRAPHY.ORG
www.amisun.com
JULY 17, 2019
6101 MARINA DRIVE, HOLMES BEACH
ORIG $
Prop
Date
THE SUN
Real estate transfers of February-March 2019 •Sponsored by Alan Galletto, Island Real Estate Source: Mid Florida Multiple Listing Service AM - Anna Maria | COR - Cortez | BB Bradenton Beach | HB - Holmes Beach Sold $
Property Address
City
Heated
Bed
Full Ba
Half Ba
Lot Size
FEBRUARY
975000 Land 2019-02-27 975000 210 Fir Ave AM 78x100 1775000 SFR 2019-02-04 1700000 805 Jacaranda Rd AM 2238 4 4 0 799000 SFR 2019-02-07 735000 514 Bayview Pl AM 1944 3 2 0 100x80x100x50 1199000 SFR 2019-02-07 1050000 509 Pine Ave A AM 1847 4 3 0 895000 SFR 2019-02-08 770000 114 Peppertree Ln AM 1976 3 2 0 935000 SFR 2019-02-08 900000 118 Oak Ave AM 1262 3 2 0 2500000 SFR 2019-02-08 2500000 903 N Shore Dr AM 2449 4 2 0 2695000 SFR 2019-02-08 2550000 104 Mangrove Ave AM 3003 4 3 1 889000 SFR 2019-02-27 869000 315 Spring Ave AM 1428 3 2 0 975000 Land 2019-02-27 975000 210 Fir Ave AM 78x100 1595000 SFR 2019-02-27 1250000 410 Pine Ave AM 2965 4 3 1 52.0x110.0 410000 Con-Hot 2019-02-01 380000 1603 Gulf DrN23 BB 1080 2 2 0 199000 Condo 2019-02-01 180000 1603 Gulf DrN32 BB 380 1 1 0 494412 Dup 2019-02-14 380000 109 12th St N BB 1000 75x85 239000 Condo 2019-02-15 230000 1801 Gulf DrN122 BB 691 1 1 0 1000000 SFR 2019-02-20 1000000 101 11th St S BB 1362 3 1 1 559900 SFR 2019-02-22 495000 105 12th St N BB 960 2 1 1 1099900 SFR 2019-02-25 987500 4004 Commodore COR 4175 3 3 1 649000 SFR 2019-02-01 615000 5805 De Palmas HB 1150 2 2 0 1050000 SFR 2019-02-01 1050000 509 83rd St HB 2876 4 3 0 799000 SFR 2019-02-08 799000 224 84th St HB 1814 3 2 0 2695000 SFR 2019-02-08 2400000 717 Key Royale HB 3963 4 5 1 379000 Condo 2019-02-11 357500 3801 E Bay D208 HB 1146 2 2 0 1550000 SFR 2019-02-11 1575000 619 N Point Dr HB 2300 4 3 1 629000 SFR 2019-02-14 600000 506 68th St HB 1158 2 3 0 103x75 600000 Condo 2019-02-15 550000 5300 Gulf Dr 303 HB 1057 2 2 0 999000 Condo 2019-02-15 950000 5610 Gulf Dr6 HB 1456 2 2 1 335000 Condo 2019-02-19 330000 3000 Gulf Dr 10 HB 700 2 1 0 1395000 SFR 2019-02-19 1245000 215 64th St HB 2690 4 3 1 1475000 5plex 2019-02-19 1475000 3015 Avenue E HB 3205 105’ X 125’ 995000 SFR 2019-02-22 890000 125 47th St HB 1470 3 3 0 1999000 SFR 2019-02-25 1750000 620 Key Royale HB 3215 4 5 0
MARCH
1295000 SFR 2019-03-01 1125000 604 N Shore Dr AM 2208 6 5 0 1250000 SFR 2019-03-05 975000 110 Maple Ave AM 2232 3 2 1 649000 SFR 2019-03-08 610000 150 Crescent Dr AM 1765 3 2 0 71x114 325000 Condo 2019-03-15 325000 522 Pine Ave 1c AM 822 2 1 0 2100000 SFR 2019-03-15 1850000 108 Gull Dr AM 2754 4 4 1 75x100 2200000 SFR 2019-03-15 2075000 106 Los Cedros Dr AM 3298 5 4 2 80x138 325000 Condo 2019-03-22 300000 522 Pine Ave 3b AM 822 2 1 0 659900 SFR 2019-03-22 575000 153 Crescent Dr AM 1213 2 2 0 1449000 SFR 2019-03-28 1357000 107 Willow Ave AM 2880 5 3 0 895000 Dup 2019-03-29 1050000 201 Elm Ave AM 2655 55x135 198000 Mobile 2019-03-01 175000 2601 Gulf DrN735 BB 396 1 1 0 459900 Condo 2019-03-08 446200 110 12th St S 113 BB 896 2 2 0 649000 SFR 2019-03-13 635000 2107 Avenue C BB 1280 3 2 0 435000 SFR 2019-03-15 410000 100 12th St N BB 929 2 2 0 950000 Dup 2019-03-27 899000 2313 Gulf Dr N BB 1944 Na 1325000 SFR 2019-03-11 1200000 4012 Commodore COR 3619 4 4 1 1495000 SFR 2019-03-29 1379000 12610 Baypointe Tr COR 4865 4 4 0 879000 SFR 2019-03-01 720000 210 67th St HB 2830 4 4 0 2995000 SFR 2019-03-01 2450000 528 72nd St HB 4014 4 3 1 349000 Condo 2019-03-05 339000 4307 Gulf Dr205 HB 1027 2 2 0 1495000 SFR 2019-03-11 1372500 612 Ambassador HB 2243 3 3 0 564900 Villa 2019-03-11 500000 432 63rd St HB 1316 2 2 0 920000 SFR 2019-03-13 840000 521 75th St HB 2209 3 2 0 93x123 314900 Condo 2019-03-18 292500 3705 E Bay D213 HB 1146 2 2 0 875000 SFR 2019-03-18 775000 610 N Point Dr HB 2109 3 2 1 375000 Condo 2019-03-19 350000 3704 6th Ave 8 HB 1157 2 2 0 1349000 SFR 2019-03-20 1050000 8015 Marina Is HB 2932 4 2 1 328000 Condo 2019-03-22 324000 3000 Gulf Dr 1 HB 756 1 1 0 1499000 SFR 2019-03-22 1499000 4002 5th Ave HB 2737 6 3 1 1730000 SFR 2019-03-25 1625000 114 48th St HB 2366 4 3 0 50x100 1229000 SFR 2019-03-27 1070000 113 36th St HB 1836 5 3 1 Irregular 409500 Condo 2019-03-29 392000 600 Manatee 238 HB 1187 2 2 0 1350000 SFR 2019-03-29 1050000 505 75th St HB 3778 5 3 1
Special Sale None None None None None None None None None None None None None None None None None None None None None None None None None None None None None None None None None None None None None None None None None Short Sale None None None None None None None None None None None None None None None None None None None None None None None
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OBITUARIES George C. Wilson, Jr. On Monday, July 8, 2019, George Cameron Wilson Jr., of Holmes Beach, Florida passed away at the age of 67. George was born on February 7, 1952 in Newcastle, Penn., to George C. Wilson Sr. and Vilma Winter. He received his English degree from Youngstown State University in 1976. In 1994, George came to Holmes Beach to visit his friend Dave Cochran - and never left! While in Florida, George became a teacher at Electa Lee Middle School. George’s hobbies included music (especially classic rock and reggae), going to concerts and photographing rock stars at concerts. It is well known that George’s favorite band was the Beatles and their concert photos along with many others are currently on display at D Coy Ducks. Another passion of George’s was golf and he was thrilled to win his first golf
BEACH BEAT ANNA MARIA
6/20, found property, 200 Fir Ave. Trash bags were left on the beach. 627, domestic incident, 110 Palm Ave. Two family members got into an argument after drinking all day. The female bit the male and was arrested. 7/6, found property, 10005 Gulf Drive. An iPhone was found and turned in.
BRADENTON BEACH
7/3, information, Sports Lounge, 118 Bridge St. An officer was called to break up a bar fight. 7/4, Marchman Act, Circle K, 103 Gulf Drive S. An intoxicated homeless
tournament last month, an honor he shared with some of his favorite golfing buddies. George was preceded in death by his father and mother, his grandparents, Theresa “Tree” and Emidio Bernard, and his brother, Jeffrey D. Wilson. He is survived by his brother’s wife Chris Ann Wilson, nephew Christofer Russo, niece Rachel Tommelleo Ramirez (and husband Ray Ramirez), and great nephew Ben Ramirez, as well as numerous friends who George thought of as family. George was known and loved by many people on Anna Maria Island and will be missed by all. A Celebration of Life will be held on Monday, July 22, 2019 at 6 p.m. at the Anna Maria General Store, 503 Pine Ave, Anna Maria, Fla 34217. An after party will be held at D Coy Ducks immediately following the celebration at the General Store. Any donations may be made to https://www.gofundme. com/f/in-memory-of-george-cwilson.
Joyce Mardell Stauffacher Brown Joyce Mardell Stauffacher Brown, 93, of Homes Beach, Fla., died peacefully at home on July man was bothering customers. He was taken to the hospital to sober up. 7/4. Burglary to a vehicle, Coquina Park, 2000 Gulf Drive S. A knife and various personal items were taken. 7/6, criminal mischief, 941 Deli, 119 Bridge St. The storefront was vandalized.
HOLMES BEACH
6/27, disorderly conduct, Manatee Public Beach, 4000 Gulf Drive. A male knocked a coffee cup out of a female’s hand and argued with her and lifeguards who witnessed his actions. They called for police assistance in issuing a trespass warning. When they arrived. He resisted efforts to handcuff him to the point where they had to use a Taser on him. 6/29, driving with a suspended license and no
12, 2019. Joyce was born on Nov. 30, 1925, in South Bend, Ind,, and was raised in Monroe, Wis. Her parents were Louis Bartlome Stauffacher and Florence Mae Dettweiler. Joyce was proud of her 100 percent Swiss heritage. She married Jerrold Bernard Brown in 1948, and they had celebrated their 65th anniversary when he passed away in 2013. Jerry’s career with the CIA afforded them the opportunity to live overseas in Cyprus, Austria, Germany, Panama and Okinawa and to travel and vacation extensively during those assignments. Joyce was an avid golfer, bridge player, bird watcher, hiker, camper and world traveler. She and Jerry moved to Holmes Beach shortly after Jerry retired in 1980, and they were members of the Key Royale Golf Club and the Manatee County Audubon Society. Joyce is survived by her three children, Kathy Calvert (Rick) (Adamstown, Md.), Sue Grove Ka (Harry) (Placentia, Calif.), and David Brown (Norma) (Fairfax, Va.); and her six grand-children, Casey, Laura, and Claire Calvert, and Lyndsey Grove Longo (Nick), Ryan, and Derek Grove.
proof of insurance, 5400 Marina Drive. The officer pulled the driver over due to the license plate reader identifying his license as suspended. He was given a criminal traffic citation, and his passenger did the driving. 6/29, parking violation, Manatee Public Beach, 4000 Gulf Drive. A car parked illegally that was blocking the right of way was towed away. 629, larceny, Manatee Public Beach, 4000 Gulf Drive. Two beach goers placed their belongings in a cooler bag and went swimming. When they returned, it was gone. The walked the area and found the bag with contents dumped out in the sand. Two cell phones, a wallet, a pack of cigarettes and an automobile key were missing.
JULY 17, 2019
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JULY 17, 2019
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DOCK: Installation begins FROM PAGE 4
Bar president John Horne said of the work underway. “I can’t wait to see boats rafted off that dock with visitors and patrons of Bridge Street and the Anna Maria Oyster Bar.” Sherman Baldwin is the general manager of Paradise Boat Tours. The company’s on land terminal is located in space subleased from the Oyster Bar. Baldwin also serves as the vice president of the Bridge Street Merchants association. “The long wait is over. Thanks to the persistence of the CRA for making this project happen after facing every challenge imaginable. This will be an economic boost for all of Bridge Street,” Baldwin said.
PROJECT TIMELINE
In early 2017, the CRA entered into a $119,980 contract with the North Palm Beachbased Technomarine Group to provide the materials and install a new floating dock
alongside the pier. In the CRA’s 2016-17 fiscal year budget, CRA members budgeted up to $250,000 for the dock project. And Manatee County commissioners agreed to reimburse the CRA for up to $125,000 of the project costs. In August 2018, Spain-based Ronautica Marinas shipped the premanufactured floating dock decking sections to Port Everglades. After some additional delays, Technomarine later delivered the dock sections to Hecker ’s construction yard in Gibsonton, so the floats could be attached to the decking. In early 2019, the CRA ended its contractual relationship with Technomarine due to the ongoing delays and began dealing directly with Shaffer and Hecker Construction. According to City Treasurer Shayne Thompson, the CRA had paid Technomarine $83,682 of the $119,980 contracted amount at that time – and to date, the county has
Mondays
reimbursed the CRA $26,995 of the $83,682 paid to Technomarine. In May, the CRA members approved Hecker ’s $52,400 revised bid proposal to attach the floats to the decking dock sections and install the dock. The CRA members also decided the CRA would purchase the pilings directly to receive the sale tax exemption given to governmental agencies. According to Perry’s May 15 project update, the pilings cost $45,704 when ordered. The Hecker contract, the piling purchases and other additional expenses bring the anticipated final cost of dock project to approximately $184,000. During past CRA meetings, Cole has expressed his belief that despite these additional costs the final product will be superior to the dock originally envisioned.
y l p m
i S Great
Tuesdays
Food
And MUSIC
Fridays
Thur, Sat & Sun
Dinner Shows Start around 7pm Harry Hour Shows Mon thru Fri 3pm to 5pm
Hours 11:30-10pm Mon-Sat 1:00 - 10pm Sunday
9903 Gulf Dr 941-567-5999 www.harrysAMI.com For Delivery www.Islandeats.net/harrysgrill
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REAL ESTATE
JULY 17, 2019
The suburbs and the millennials F
or several years, I wrote about how the millennials were moving into the cities. They didn’t want anything to do with the suburbs and their parents' lifestyle. Well in the space of two weeks I discovered that everything old is new again. In the 1950’s families, including mine, were moving from the city to the suburbs, buying up new homes in what were once potato fields and family farms. This migration from the cities to the suburbs happened because of the demand for housing after World War II when the veterans could finally settle down and start their families. When the grandchildren of those families grew up, they said, "No way," and vowed not to return to the mundane lifestyle of backyard barbeques and Little League. But, don’t ever say never since the millennials, many of whom are in their late 30s, are coming back with families in tow, only this time instead of moving to the suburbs outside of major Northern cities,
Castles in the Sand LOUISE BOLGER they’re coming south. This reversal has a lot to do with the mobility of jobs and the growth of the South, which is benefitting from the real estate slow down and taxes of the Northeast. Recently, a very extensive piece in the Wall Street Journal studied the reversal from city to suburban life. It reported that the growth rates of the suburbs are far outpacing metropolitan areas, and the South is winning the race. This supports what I wrote about last week regarding investors buying up first time buyer properties hurting millennials who suddenly want to buy houses and raise families.
Some of the hot Sun Belt areas with good job opportunities that are benefitting from this influx of young families are Frisco, Texas; Nolensville, Tenn.; Scottsdale, Ga., and our very own Lakewood Ranch. As fate will have it, the same day I read the story about city to suburban reversal, there was a report in the Bradenton Herald about 3,000 new homes that will be built in Lakewood Ranch. After a little research, I discovered a couple of interesting things about Lakewood Ranch that we who live surrounded by water probably haven’t paid attention to. First of all, 74 percent of Lakewood Ranch residents are either between the ages of 25 – 44 or over 65. I also read that Massachusetts General Hospital is opening a Brain Health Initiative that will be based in Lakewood Ranch, kind of an achievement for Bradenton. Also, the median age in Lakewood Ranch is 49.4
compared to Anna Maria Island’s 64.3., not too many millennials with families moving here. Finally, Lakewood Ranch is 31,000 acres and 29 square miles with a population of over 11,000. The reason I’m telling you this is twofold. First of all, to keep everyone aware of changes in real estate trends both locally and nationally and second to help us sun and sand worshippers appreciate what’s going on east of our shoreline. We’re all part of the same region, so what happens in Lakewood Ranch can have a serious impact on us – traffic, parking, success of restaurants and shops just to name a few. The millennials may prefer to live in Lakewood Ranch, but for them visiting Anna Maria Island is one of the reasons they came here. Well, once again, millennials are picking up where baby boomers left off. Now it’s their turn to influence all aspects of life in the country. Everything old is new again.
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JULY 17, 2019
ENTERTAINMENT FAMILY FUN
At the Island Branch Library, 5701 Marina Drive, Holmes Beach: • Thursday, July 18, a veteran’s services professional will be available to help vets with needs, 9 a.m. to noon; school age program, “Mad Science, Up, Up and Away,” 10 to 11 a.m. ; Sunshine Stitchers, Knit and Crochet, 2 to 4 p.m. • Friday, July 19, Forty Carrots, Partners in Play, 10 to 11 a.m.; Mahjongg Club, 11:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. • Saturday, July 20, Meditation with Sheryl, 10 a.m. to noon; Island Family Crafters, Galaxy Craft Workshop, 1 to 3 p.m. • Tuesday July 23, Preschool story time, “Constellations,” 10 to 11 a.m.; Tech help, 2 to 4 p.m.
REMEMBERING THE RAILS
Engineer Jim Zientara of the Florida Railroad Museum, will address JOY (Just Older Youth) at the Roser Community Church Fellowship Hall at 512 Pine Ave., Anna Maria, at 11 a.m. on Wednesday, July 24 Zientara has many hobbies and
wears many hats. One is for model trains and real trains. From a 5-year old with an American Flyer running around the Christmas Tree, to a commuter riding the Chicago and Northwestern, to a train fan riding trains worldwide, "Engineer" Jim has seen much and looks forward to passing fun things along. The goal of the Florida Railroad Museum, Inc. is to preserve Florida’s railroad history. Over the years, the museum has acquired and restored rolling stock and equipment to operate so everyone can appreciate the sights and sounds of Florida railroading as it existed in the 1940s and 1950s. Lunch is provided for a $5 donation, RSVP to the church office at 941-778-0414 or online at www. roserchurch.com/joy Roser Community fellowship hall is the entrance east of the Roser Memorial Chapel, closest to the Anna Maria City Pier. For more information, go to www.roserchurch. com/joy, call 941-778-0414 or find it on Facebook @roserchurch.
HAVE A VERY MERRY JULY
Santa takes a Florida vacation this month, and he’ll be on Bridge Street on Saturday, July 27, at the Anna Maria Island Privateers’
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Christmas in July celebration. This party, sponsored by the Drift In of Bradenton Beach, starts at 5 p.m. with Santa making his appearance at 6 p.m. There will be live music and a potluck Christmas dinner that is free for those who bring a dish or guests can eat for a $5 donation per plate. There will be a drawing for a liquor basket and a lotto board. Lotto tickets are $5 for one, $10 for three or $20 for 10 tickets. Tickets can be prepurchased at the Drift In; ask for Doreen. For more information, call 941778-9088 or314-520-2402.
ART WALKS OVER THE SUMMER
The Artists' Guild of Anna Maria Island will continue Art Walks during the summer months on the second Friday of each month. The dates for the summer are Aug. 9th, Sept. 13, and Oct. 11. Visit the gallery on the Art Walks and at other times at 5414 Marina Drive, Holmes Beach. The Art Walks run from 5:30 to 7:30 p.m. There will be themed windows for each month of the off-season: August – Beach Blanket Bingo; Sepember – Shower Power; October – Harvest.
KRISTIN SWAIN | SUN
New V.P. Commissioners congratulate City Clerk Stacey Johnston for being elected vice-president of the Florida Association of City Clerks.
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Mobility program dropped in favor of ban Holmes Beach commissioners agreed to ban mobility share services instead of instituting a pilot program. BY KRISTIN SWAIN SUN STAFF WRITER | kswain@amisun.com
HOLMES BEACH – The wait is over for the owners of Mobile Muttley’s, at least in Holmes Beach. Commissioners agreed in a 3-2 informal vote during a July 9 work session to not move forward with a one-year pilot program for an alternate mobility share service, in this case, docked bicycles. Instead, commissioners are now considering an outright ban on mobility share services, including docked and dockless bicycles and electric scooters. The ban is planned to be citywide. Commissioners briefly considered allowing docked bicycle sharing services on private property with a site plan review but decided in an informal 3-2 vote to prohibit those as well to prevent opening the issue up to large companies coming into the Island and bringing bicycles share stations that have limited oversight.
Commissioner Rick Hurst said that he believes the commission either needs to ban the share services outright or find a small company to come in and run them. The previously proposed one-year trial period, he said, would be difficult for a small local business to fund with the knowledge that their ability to operate in the city could be taken back after only a year for any reason. To offer the trial period, Hurst said, would open it up to a large national company that already has equipment ready to install that could easily be relocated if the trial in Holmes Beach didn’t work out. He added that it would need to be an Island-wide effort to make it worthwhile for any business owner. Mayor Judy Titsworth agreed. “What you’ve done is open it up,” she said. “If you don’t prohibit it, you’ve made it a free-for-all.” City Attorney Patricia Petruff said that she would work on the prohibition language as well as changes to the land development code to ban electric scooters from the city. The ban on electric scooters applies only to recreational electric and battery powered scooters, not mobility assistance devices that assist those with medical issues.
JULY 17, 2019
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SUNSHINE: Trial begins FROM PAGE 15
CNOBB meetings, city meeting minutes, newspaper articles and more. Watrous said the evidence would show that CNOBB consisted of extremely zealous individuals that formed their own shadow government because they did not feel their voices were being heard by the city commission. Watrous said the defendants have claimed they are the victims in this case, portraying themselves as innocent retirees who volunteered their time to serve on city advisory boards. Watrous noted that all six defendants received Sunshine Law training while serving as city advisory board members but chose to “turn a blind eye” when moving forward with their CNOBB activities. He also noted the defendants never sought the advice of the county attorney’s office or outside counsel regarding whether their participation in CNOBB meeting discussions were Sunshine Law compliant. “This an intentional act on their parts. I’m not saying they’re bad people, but they exercised bad judgment,” Watrous said. During his opening statements, Shults
said this case is really the story of six citizens who volunteered to serve on city boards without compensation. He also said this is the story of six citizens and their constitutional rights to petition their city government for changes to the city charter. Shults said the defendants should be commended for their service to the city and halting their July 25, 2017, discussion about prohibiting parking garages after only six minutes of discussion. Shults said no Sunshine Law violations occurred, but if they had they would have been cured by the resignations of all six defendants before or after the lawsuit was filed in August 2017. “That should have been the end of this matter,” Shults said. “They should have been saluted instead of being sued. Here we are two years later.” After the lunch break, Watrous and Barfield read aloud excerpts from the printed transcript of Bill Vincent’s December 2018 deposition. Barfield read Vincent’s responses to questions Watrous posed late last year about his citymandated Sunshine Law training, the April 2017 Planning and Zoning Board discussions he participated in regarding parking garages and his role in creating and chairing CNOBB.
LO C A L LY K N OW N . G LO B A L LY C O N N E C T E D.
B R A D E N T O N B E AC H 1710 Gulf Drive N E Hannah Hillyard & George Myers 941-744-7358 A4215055 $1,749,000
TERR A CEIA 590 Bayshore Drive Cheryl Roberts & Debbie Vogler 941-266-1450 A4437024 $1,550,000
PA L M E T T O 1715 4th Street W Debbie Vogler 941-705-3328 A4418376 $1,199,000
HARBOUR L ANDINGS E STATE S 12518 Baypointe Terrace Laurie M Mock 941-232-3665 A4425873 $1,175,000
ANNA MARIA ISLAND 240 Oak Avenue Kathy Harman 941-900-9828 A4424812 $2,199,000
C O R T E Z B E AC H 103 8th Street S Jodene Moneuse 941-302-4913 A4423553 $700,000
W I S T E R I A PA R K 8846 17th Avenue Circle NW Mark Boehmig 941-807-6936 A4420974 $639,000
B AY PA L M S 503 70th Street Laura Rulon 941-896-2757 A4406584 $549,000
K E Y R OYA L E 605 Key Royale Drive Laurie M Mock 941-232-3665 A4427418 $1,495,000
JEWFISH KEY 7140 La Lenaire Drive Laurie M Mock 941-232-3665 A4426326 $1,395,000
A N N A M A R I A B E AC H 111 Spring Avenue Debbie Capobianco 941-704-2394 A4421014 $1,100,000
ILEXHURST 2307 Avenue C Laurie M Mock 941-232-3665 A4430021 $935,000
R I V E R B AY T OW N H O M E S 3509 10th Lane W Jinny Scherer & Pam Blalock 941-705-0877 A4428875 $283,000
MARSHALL L ANDING 5490 56th Court East Tyler Hardy 941-201-4574 A4411520 $599,900
NEW CONSTRUCTION
MSC MORTGAGE | MSC TITLE | MS&C COMMERCIAL NEW HOMES & CONDOMINIUMS
BRIDGEPORT 501 Gulf Drive N 305 Jodene Moneuse 941-302-4913 A4437567 $420,000
OPEN HOUSES SUNDAYS 1–4 PM
michaelsaunders.com
8 8 8 . 552 . 52 2 8
michaelsaunders.com L I C E N S E D R E A L E S TAT E B R O K E R
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Build Your Dream Home in a Dream Location! A SPRAWLING 3.4-ACRE HOMESITE
• Customizable Home
• Minutes from Anna Maria Island
• Exclusive Gated Community
• Coveted Northwest Bradenton Location
C A L L U S T O D A Y O R V I S I T B Y A P P O I N T M E N T O N LY
941-242-8602
NEALSIGNATUREHOMES.COM
© 2019 Neal Communities, All rights reserved. Neal Communities reserves the right to change this information without notice. See a sales representative for details. License#: CBC 1256375
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Paddlewheeling Princess
CINDY LANE | SUN
It’s not something you see every day – the Anna Maria Princess, usually docked at the Bradenton Beach Marina, spent the Fourth of July holiday weekend at the Palma Sola Causeway serving hot dogs and hamburgers. The paddlewheeler also took passengers on a fireworks cruise on July 5 to Cortez.
Call The Best in Buying and Selling Anna Maria Island!
We Get Results!
The #1 Team in Manatee & Sarasota County!
Charles / Gabe- 941.228.6086 Jim- 941.704.6115
Want it Sold! Call Us!
www.TeamBukyFL.com
Over 84 Million in Sales for 2018!
717 North Shore Dr. $5,495,000
Incredible Oceanfront Property sitting on Two Direct Gulf front Lots! Sweeping Beach and Ocean Views! Fabulous 3BD/2.5BA Island Home with 50 ft Pool, Custom Kitchen, Private Elevator, Multi-Car Garages, and Much More!
210 S Harbor Dr. $1,795,000
4Bed/4Bath Sportsmans Harbor Waterfront, Bay Views, Boat Dock, Lift, Private Heated Pool/Spa, Great Weekly Rental, Seconds to Beach!
201 73rd St. $849,900
Updated 5BD/3BA Home, Steps to Beach and Gulf Views! Prime location!, Large Pool, Putting Green, Nice Rental!
690 Penfield St. $750,000
Waterfront on LBK, 2BD/2BA Pool Home, Intercoastal Views! Rooftop Deck, Fireplace, 2 Boat Lifts, Fisherman’s Paradise!
12118 W 45th Ave Dr. $899,000
Waterfront! Direct Bayfront in The Historic Cortez Fishing Village, Almost ½ Acre, Zoning Options, 3BD/1BA Home, Great Boathouse!
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205 79th St. $1,499,000
Coastal Beauty on AMI, 5BD/4.5BA Pool Home, Prime Location, Great Rental, Direct to Beach, Sunset Views!
520 Kumquat Dr. $2,795,000
Immaculate Waterfront Property, 4BD/4.5BA Pool Home, Excellent Location ,Elevator, The Ultimate in Coastal Living!
424 Magnolia Ave. $2,200,000
Large 4BD/4.5BA Pool Home, Prime Location, New Construction, Private Pool Guest Suite, Great Rental, Close to Everything!
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FUN IN THE SUN
Across 1 Harmonious groups 7 Maybelline product 14 Role for Miley 15 Sticks 16 Result of too many people fishing? 18 Customer file prompt 19 Lincoln and Grant had them in common 21 Meet halfway 22 Show of support 24 Religious music? 27 Buoyant wood 30 On point 31 ’60s protest gp. 32 Well-versed about sailing ships? 37 Exhilarated shout 38 Fencing gear 40 Dispute between polite fellows? 44 Term. 47 Practical joke 48 Stimulate 49 Problems with cellphone signals? 54 __ corda: played using the piano’s soft pedal 55 Orly arrival 56 Like little-known facts 59 Hungary neighbor 62 “Above my pay grade” ... and, read in four parts, a hint to 16-, 24-, 32-, 40- and 49-Across 65 Dodging
66 Pushes back, say 67 No 68 Antarctic explorer Shackleton Down 1 Golden State traffic org. 2 “Bali __” 3 Nearly zero 4 About 5 Indian noble 6 Cutting 7 George Strait label 8 Munic. official 9 Family ride 10 Shipped stuff 11 Dodges 12 Fix some bare spots, say 13 Take stock of 17 Sixteenth-century year 20 Ivory, for one 22 __ Dhabi 23 Jabber 25 Cut or crust opener Answers to 07-10-19 Crossword Puzzle.
26 Seventh in an instructional 39-Down, perhaps 28 Obstacle 29 Back to back? 33 Pines 34 Very small amounts 35 Volunteer for another tour 36 Final Four game 39 Order 41 Eau in Ecuador 42 Sister 43 It may be iced 44 Showed leniency toward 45 Villa d’Este city 46 Hostility 50 Cattle drivers 51 Navel configuration 52 Shore bird 53 Goal or basket 57 Lenovo competitor 58 Bangalore bread 60 Lodging spot 61 Sports rep. 63 Sot’s affliction 64 East, in Essen
JULY 17, 2019
JULY 17, 2019
CLASSIFIED
ANNOUNCEMENTS
CARPET CLEANING
FOR SALE
These items are available for best offer at the Anna Maria Island Historical Museum, 402 Pine Ave. Anna Maria, 7780492: Lexmark Multi Function color printer, WIFI Enabled, approx year 2010; HP Laser Jet Color Printer CP1025nw, approx year 2015; ACER LCD Flat Screen Monitor with Dell Keyboard; HP Envy Color Scanner Flatbed Series D410, approx year 2015; Two Fellowes Laminator Saturn 2 Series. Your donation is tax deductible.
QUALITY COUNTS. CARPET cleaning. Upholstery cleaning. Tile & grout cleaning. Island's favorite cleaner. Manatee Chamber Member. Great price/free estimates. Call 941-7561082
VARIDESK CUBE CORNER 36, two tier design and keyboard deck. Heavyweight base for stability. Color black. Also Varidesk sitting/ standing chair and floor mat. All perfect condition. All pieces new $805. Asking $250. Call Steve 941-724-2728.
FACE PAINTER/PORTRAIT ARTIST Island student artist, reasonable price for parties, events, and special portraits. Call/text Lillian 210-380-9691 THE BEST VOLUNTEER position on the island. The AMI Historical Museum needs docents and bread makers. Call Lynn at 813758-3234 or lbrennan47@ gmail.com ROSER FOOD BANK needs donations of cash and non-perishable food. Donations boxes are located at the Church, Moose Club, and Walgreen’s. Join the team at the FLORIDA MARITIME MUSEUM to preserve Florida’s fishing and maritime heritage. Assist with collections, school tours and more! Contact 941-708-6120
BOATS: SALES & RENTALS 2008 MAKO 204cc 150 Suzuki 450 hours T-Top. EZ Load Trailer. Lift Kept, One Owner $23,000 Call 941-7268414
CARE GIVER PRIVATE DUTY CAREGIVER Medical Assistant looking for employment as a Private Duty (LiveIn) Caregiver/Gardener on the Islands for the months of November through March. Impeccable References. Call 828-702 1757
Call us today! 941-778-3986
CLEANING SERVICE TOTAL HOME SERVICE CLEANING : Residential, Commercial & Rentals. Professional and Reliable. Call 941-756-4570 AUTHORITY ONE SERVICES. Residential/Commercial/Vacation Rentals & Construction Cleaning. Also Power Washing, Windows, Paver Sealing & Roof Cleaning. Ask about your Senior Citizens Discount Call 941-251-5948 or 941565-3931
COMMERCIAL SALES, RENT & LEASE 13 UNIT RESORT: $4,799,000 Bradenton Beach on Gulf Dr. WAREHOUSE: 9300 sq ft possible Machine Shop w/ Heavy Duty Elect. Or Car Storage. So many Possibilities. Near SRQ Airport. $595,000. Island Real Estate Alan Galletto 941232-2216
COMPUTER SERVICES EMPIRE COMPUTER SERVICE Computer problems fixed in your home or office. The fastest friendliest service around. Serving the Island since 2004. Call 941-739-6424
EMPLOYMENT SOLO’S PIZZA LOOKING for part time evening cook. Call 941-778-8118
FISHING CHARTERS CAPT. MAC GREGORY Fishing Charters. Full Day, Half Day, Night, Inshore & Near Shore. 941-809-5783 U.S.C.G. Certified/Insured
GARAGE, MOVING, RUMMAGE & YARD SALES ROSER THRIFT SHOP open Tuesday & Thursday 9:30am-2pm,Saturday 10am-1pm, Annex till 12pm. Donations preferred Wednesdays 9am -11am 511 Pine Ave., Anna Maria. Phone 941-779-2733 Estate Sale Saturday .July 20 8am-until. 620 57th Ave Lot F7, Bradenton. 40 yards behind Red Lobster. Look for Balloons! Furniture, lanai tables and much more.
HOME IMPROVEMENTS TILE! TILE! TILE! All variations of tile supplied and installed. Quality workmanship. Prompt, reliable, many Island references. Free estimates. Neil 941-726-3077 RENOVATION SPECALIST ALL carpentry repairs, Wash Family Construction, locally owned and operated CBC 1258250 Call 941-7250073. KERN CONSTRUCTION NEW Homes & Remodel. Design/Build. Since 1968. License # CRC1327296. Call Jerry Kern 941-7781115 www.kernconstructioninc.com LIGHTHOUSE PROPERTY INNOVATIONS LLC State Certified General Contractor (Lic. #CGC 1515821) New Construction, Renovations & Additions. Call 941-266-7500 MASTER CARPENTER. Decks-Docks-FencingStairs & Railing. Free Estimates. Handyman Work. Call Richard 941448-3571
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JSAN CORPORATION Renovations and Handyman Services 941-2430995 jsancorporation@gmail. com Flooring, Drywall, Painting, Repairs, Kitchen and Bathrooms, Trim & Doors. Credit Cards Accepted.
HOME SERVICES THE HARDWOOD STOP Flooring installation services; Laminate, hardwood, vinyl and tile. Bathroom and shower. Virtually dustless FLOOR REMOVAL License and insured FREE ESTIMATES 941-227-0041 www.thehardwoodstop. com BAYSIDE PAINTING Residential & Commercial. “More than just a Painter!” Drywall, pressure washing, handyman services and hauling. Call David 941-565-9446 Carroll 941773-4777
LANDSCAPING & LAWN CARE
R. GAROFALO’S Interlocking brick pavers, driveways, patios, pool decks. Free estimates. Licensed & Insured. Call Rafael 941-778-4823 or Veronik 941-526-7941 STRAIGHT SHOT LANDSCAPE. Specializing in Old Florida Seashell driveways and scapes. Also Rock, Mulch, & Soil. Free estimates. Call Shark Mark 941-301-6067
LEGAL NOTICE NOTICE OF PUBLIC SALE: NORMS TOWING gives Notice of Foreclosure of Lien and intent to sell these vehicles on 08/07/2019, 09:00 am at 1855 63RD AVENUE E. BRADENTON, FL 34203, pursuant to subsection 713.78 of the Florida Statutes. NORMS TOWING reserves the right to accept or reject any and/or all bids. 1FMZU67E63UC81729 2003 FORD 1HGEM21533L067230 2003 HONDA 1ZVBP8AM8B5160151 2011 FORD 2B3LA43G56H472484 2006 DODGE 2C4GM68424R581252 2004 CHRYSLER 3GNVKGE08AG263469 2010 CHEVROLET 3N1AB41D2WL056348 1998 NISSAN
4A32B2FF5CE015138 2012 MITSUBISHI 5Y2SL65817Z441482 2007 PONTIAC JH4CU2F43CC010384 2012 ACURA JT3GN86R9V0045129 1997 TOYOTA KMHWF25VXXA051384 1999 HYUNDAI KNAGM4A77F5650314 2015 KIA KNDJT2A51D7506290 2013 KIA NOTICE OF PUBLIC SALE: NORMS TOWING gives Notice of Foreclosure of Lien and intent to sell these vehicles on 08/14/2019, 09:00 am at 1855 63RD AVENUE E. BRADENTON, FL 34203, pursuant to subsection 713.78 of the Florida Statutes. NORMS TOWING reserves the right to accept or reject any and/or all bids. 1FTPW12524KA12172 2004 FORD 1HTWBAAN55J042446 2005 INTERNATIONAL 2HGES16542H602893 2002 HONDA 3C3HY55X68T108768 2008 CHRYSLER 3KPFK4A72JE236665 2018 KIA 3N1BC1CP1AL462282 2010 NISSAN JKAEXKG10JDA04780 2018 KAWASAKI KMHDH4AE1BU145874 2011 HYUNDAI
LOST & FOUND FOUND DIAMOND RING on Friday July 5 on Coquina Beach. Call Bradenton Beach Police Department 941-778-6311 LOST DIAMOND STONE on Trolley or shops on Anna Maria Island. $500 REWARD. Call 314-324-5921 LOST EYE GLASSES April 19th. Dark men’s frame. Anthony Peoples Design. Call 269-344-7960 LOST WHITE GOLD 18 carat wedding band on Anna Maria Island on beach near Sandbar Restaurant. Call 352-484-4040 if found. LOST ON AMI near the curve at Bradenton beach in the gulf a small red ricoh underwater camera and a size 14 gold wedding band of 25 years. reward if found. Has very sentimental pictures that I cannot duplicate the camera had a half of a lanyard attached to it and on the clip of the lanyard was my wedding ring. Call 205-223-1548
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MOVING & STORAGE MARTIN’S MOVING YOUR Island movers! Offering dependable, competitive rates. No hidden costs. 941-809-5777.
PAINTING & WALLCOVERING PAINT! PAINT! AND MORE 28 years of experienced interior/exterior custom painting. Pressure cleaning, drywall repairs and texture finishes. Many Island references. Please call Neil for free estimates. 941-812-0507 “WIZARD OF WALLS” Established 1980 Prompt quality service. Paperhanging/removal Faux finishes. Interior painting. Mary Bell Winegarden 941-794-0455 PROFESSIONAL PAINTING SERVICES. Prompt & Reliable. Island Resident. Quality Workmanship. Interior/Exterior. Also minor repairs & carpentry. Free written detailed estimates. Bill Witaszek 941-307-9315
POOL SERVICES FOUR SEASONS POOL SERVICE AND CHEMICAL SERVICES. Certified Pool Operator. 10 + Years Experience. Residential/commercial. Chemical Service Licensed & Insured. Call Dennis Clark 941-7375657 COLE'S TROPICAL POOL SERVICE Call Cole Bowers for all your pool maintenance needs! Affordable and Dependable!! 941-7131893
PRINTING CUSTOM DIGITAL PRINTING "Your printing dream to reality" Specializing in Dye sublimation Printing. Graphic Design. Performance Active ware. Logo Design. Call Rhonda 330-550-4847
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PROFESSIONAL PRESSURE & WINDOW WASHING
PERICO BAY CLUB! 2 miles from AMI! Largest floor plan available 1866sf. 640 Estuary NOW only $319,000! Call Erin Leathem at 941448-5616 Island Real Estate IslandEJ@gmail. com
AUTHORITY ONE CLEANING : Residential, Commercial, Construction and Vacation Rentals . Also available Power Washing, Roof Cleaning and Windows. Call 941-251-5948
LOOKING FOR A highly motivated real estate broker to buy or sell your next home? Darcie Duncan, Broker Duncan Real Estate a lifelong island resident bringing success to her customers for 28 years. Proven track record brings you results! 941-725-1589
REAL ESTATE HOMES & CONDOS FOR SALE CANAL FRONT HOMES Holmes Beach – GULF FRONT CONDOS Gulf Place, L’Plage, Vista Grande, SPW, 5400 – DUPLEXES & MORE Island Real Estate ASK Alan Galletto 941232-2216 DIRECT WATERFRONT on AMI! ONLY $599,000 Boat slip, garage & panoramic Skyway views! Call Kathleen White at 941-773-0165 Island Real Estate KWhite35@ tampabay.rr.com IMMACULATE WATERFRONT HOME 520 Kumquat Dr. 4BD/5BA 3928sf Coastal Beauty! Prime location on AMI. $2,750,000 Call Charles Buky Coldwell Banker 941-228-6086
Call us today! 941-778-3986
RENTALS: ANNUAL SABAL PALMS GARDENS, Close to Anna Maria Island nice 2BR/2BA first floor condo, pool, clubhouse, no pets, HOA approval required.$1,200/mo. HOLMES BEACH, Great 3BR/2BA Island Style home home, open floor plan close to the beach with large bonus room, 2 car garage. $2,750/mo. Call Paige 513-382-1992 www.teamduncan.com Duncan Real Estate
JULY 17, 2019
ANNUAL RENTALS: 1BR/1BA annual in Holmes Beach available June 1. $1300/mo. 2BR/2BA furnished annual West Bradenton. $1300/mo. First, last and security. $150 app/ lease fee. Call Paradise Realty 941-778-4800
LARGE EXECUTIVE HOME, close to beach, 3BR/3BA, available August 1st. $3,200/month - 1st, last, and security deposit req'd. Call Sato Real Estate, Inc at 941-778-7200 or email monica@satorealestate. com
ANNUAL RENTALHOLMES BEACH 2BR/1.5BA, lanai, carport, storage, W/D hook up. $1,700/mo, Fran Maxon Real Estate 941-778-2307.
SUNNY SHORES 1 BR/1BA Central A/C, W/D hookup, lanai, water/trash paid. $700/mo $700 deposit. No pets. Call 941-545-9025
BIG POOL, SMALL COMPLEX. 1BR Condo. One block to Beach. Water, Electric, Cable, Wifi included. Beautifully furnished $1550/mo. No pets. Call 941-447-3071 ANNUAL RENTAL AT VILLAGE GREEN Oversized Villa with 2 car garage, premium lake view, 2BR/2BA, fully applianced, unfurnished, very clean. Recent updates include plantation shutters, AC, new paint and large heated pool. First, last plus security. $100 HOA fee. Tenant pays electric/ water. Trash and cable included in rent. $1900/ mo. Available NOW. Please Call (owner) Jim 781-603-2861 jimreilly@ townisp.com
ANNUAL, BRADENTON BEACH, Bayview Terrace, 1 bedroom, bay in back, gulf in front, walk to everything, no smoking, no pets, $1,250/mo. unfurnished, $1,550/mo. furnished. Call 603-9696840.
RENTALS: SEASONAL & VACATION TIFFANY PLACE Gulf Front Condo for Rent Incredible views from living room and master bedroom. 2BR/2BA Green Real Estate Call 941-778-0455 ANNA MARIA ISLAND, Fl Condos. Pool beach access, fully equipped $650-$800/ wk Redekercondos.com 941-704-7525
GREAT RATES! Weekly, Monthly. 3BR/2BA NW Bradenton. Call Grace 941-201-2190 2BR/2BA HOLMES BEACH furnished, block to beach, large kitchen, dish washer, microwave, W/D available. A/C. Large pool. $1100/mo plus utilities. June thru December 31. Call 847769-6175 2BR/2BA ALL UPDATED available months 8/15/192/1/20 and 4/10/20 view of bay and screened lanai. Call 551-427-0248
TRANSPORTATION AMI TAXI metered-on-callcards accepted. Airport: Tampa $95, Sarasota $40, Clearwater $85, Orlando $165. Call 800-301-4816. amitaxi4u@gmail.com, www.amitaxi.com ANYTIME TRANSPORTATION to all Airports, Casino, etc. Tampa $70. Sarasota $35. Pets welcome. Very dependable. Reasonable rates. Contact Jeanne. 941-779-5095
AIRPORT RIDES- Tampa, St. Pete, Sarasota. Reasonable rates! Call or text Anna 941-932-1600 ROGER'S AIRPORT SERVICE. Tampa, St. Pete/ Clearwater, Sarasota/ Bradenton. Call Roger 941773-1469
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Call today to place your ad: 941-778-3986 PAINTING
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