- Named Best Florida Newspaper In Its Class -
VOL 22 No. 38
June 29, 2022
County commissioner accused of theft Things are heating up in the race for one Manatee County commission seat, with opponent Jason Bearden demanding that Commissioner Carol Whitmore be charged with the theft of his election signs. BY KRISTIN SWAIN SUN STAFF WRITER | kswain@amisun.com
Beach closing to boaters JOE HENDRICKS | SUN
HOLMES BEACH – Manatee County voters are no strangers to political antics when it comes to local elections, but the case of the disappearing election signs has turned serious, with an accusation of theft. The problem began when Manatee County Commissioner Carol Whitmore removed three campaign signs promoting Jason Bearden, the opponent for her at-large commission seat. Two of the signs were located on private property and one was on city right of way. During a June 22 press conference held outside Holmes Beach City Hall, Whitmore said that two of the signs she removed were on properties owned by local developer Shawn Kaleta. She said
Parts of Greer Island are slated to be off limits to boaters by July Fourth. Page 4.
Celebrate Independence Day safely Anna Maria Island officials remind everyone that no private fireworks displays are permitted, but the Sandbar will provide a legal fireworks show on July 2. BY JASON SCHAFFER SUN CORRESPONDENT | jschaffer@amisun.com
ANNA MARIA ISLAND - For many, no proper Fourth of July celebration is complete without setting off fireworks. However, private displays of bombs bursting in air are illegal on the Island. Though fireworks can be purchased in Florida, rules regarding their legal use are more complicated. In April 2020, Gov. Ron DeSantis signed Senate Bill 140 into law. The bill allows people 18 and older to buy fireworks to use on three holidays: New Year’s Eve, New Year’s Day and Independence Day. The previous law
INSIDE NEWS EDITORIAL CARTOON OUTDOORS REAL ESTATE BEACH BEAT CROSSWORD CLASSIFIEDS
4 6 30-31 36 15 45 46-47
required signing a waiver saying the fireworks were for specific agricultural reasons. While the state law is clear, local cities and counties have their own rules that supersede what the state allows. Each of the three cities on Anna Maria Island has a slightly different approach to how fireworks violations will be enforced, but setting off fireworks of any kind is forbidden anywhere on the Island, especially the beaches - fireworks can disturb nesting shorebirds, sea turtles and other Island wildlife. Audubon Florida says the bursts of color and noise wreak havoc on coastal birds, especially nesting species. After each fireworks explosion, birds panic and fly from their nests, scattering the chicks and exposing them to predators and heat until their parents return. It’s also sea turtle nesting season,
WATER GUNS
SEE FIREWORKS, PAGE 33
will
be allowed at the Fourth of July parade after all. 5
Anna Maria Island, Florida
SEE COMMISSIONER, PAGE 33
Hit-and-run driver sentenced to jail time Cierra Shannon, the defendant in a 2021 fatal hit-and-run accident, will be spending the next four years in jail. BY KRISTIN SWAIN SUN STAFF WRITER | kswain@amisun.com
MANATEE COUNTY – Cierra Shannon, 28, of Holmes Beach, was sentenced on June 20 to four years in prison after pleading no contest on April 11 to a first-degree felony charge of leaving the scene of a crash with a death. She also will serve a minimum of three years of probation, along with 120 hours of community service to be served in a trauma or similar facility, 10 years without a driver’s license, mental health treatment and a victim impact course. Manatee County Circuit Court Judge Lon Arend handed down the sentence
in a courtroom filled with Shannon’s friends and family and the friends and family of the victim, 83-year-old Madelyn Dakin, of Michigan. Dakin’s husband of 67 Shannon years, Gerald, testified during the sentencing hearing that his wife was going to get laundry from their condo rental at Cedar Cove in Holmes Beach when she was struck by a vehicle on Feb. 10, 2021. He said that he tried to give his wife CPR before paramedics arrived at the scene of the accident. A Holmes Beach Police Department report states that witnesses saw a woman matching Shannon’s description get out of her vehicle, run over to check on Dakin and then get back in the vehicle, fleeing the accident scene. SEE SHANNON, PAGE 33
$18 MILLION budgeted for
Piney Point water treatment. 8 HUNTERS POINT CANAL
permit debated at hearing. 3
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Hunters Point dock permit challenge begins The Cortez Village Marina ownership group is challenging the permit issued by the Southwest Florida Water Management District in 2021. BY JOE HENDRICKS SUN CORRESPONDENT | jhendricks@amisun.com
CORTEZ – A hearing is underway to decide whether Hunters Point can build 49 docks in the canal bordering the new development. The case pertains to the environmental resource permit that the Southwest Florida Water Management District (SWFWMD) issued Hunters Point developer and property owner Marshall Gobuty in June 2021. The permit allows Gobuty to build 49 docks – or one continuous dock with 49 slips – along the privately-owned canal he purchased when he bought the Hunters Point property in 2016. Construction is well underway on many of the 86 three-story, net-zero energy rated
solar powered townhomes, but the docks will not be built until the permitting challenge is resolved. Many who pre-purchased Hunters Point homes did so with the understanding that their home would include a dock. In July 2021, MHC Cortez Village LLC, the Cortez Village Marina ownership group, filed a petition for an administrative hearing naming Gobuty’s Cortez Road Investments ownership group and SWFWMD as respondents and asking that SWFWMD be ordered to revoke the approved permit or modify it in a manner that further protects navigation. The petition claims the Hunters Point docks would increase traffic on the canal, impair vessel traffic by narrowing the navigable portions of the canal, negatively affect the marina customers’ safe use of the canal, limit the size of the vessels that can use the canal and negatively impact the profitability and ongoing operations of the Cortez Village Marina. The marina is located along Cortez Road West, less than a half-mile
JOE HENDRICKS | SUN
The Hunters Point developers hope to construct docks along the canal purchased with the property in 2016. east of the Hunters Point property and upstream of the canal owned by Gobuty’s Cortez Road Investments and Finance Inc. The canal borders the Hunters Point property on three sides. The Buttonwood Inlet and Holiday Cove RV parks are also located along the canal, east of the Hunters Point property, as are several privately owned homes. The west end of the canal passes under the humpback bridge at 127th Street West, where it connects with the
Intracoastal Waterway near the Seafood Shack restaurant. Administrative law judge Bruce Culpepper presided over the June 14-15 hearing at the SWFWMD office in Tampa on behalf of the State of Florida’s Division of Administrative Hearings . The next hearing date has not yet been scheduled. Attorneys Susan Martin and John Fumero represented Cortez Road Investments at the hearing. Attorneys Megan Albrecht and
Elizabeth Fernandez represented SWFWMD and attorneys Matthew Chait, Devon Woolard and Dan Norby represented the Cortez Village Marina. Culpepper said the sole intent of the hearing is to determine whether the water district properly issued the environmental resource permit that allows the Hunters Point docks to be built. All parties involved agreed that the riparian rights – the right to continue using the canal for navigational purposes – of the marina, the marina customers, the RV resorts and those who own homes along the canal are a matter to be decided in a circuit court.
HEARING TESTIMONY
After opening arguments by the three parties involved, Martin began presenting Cortez Road Investment’s case, joined at times by SWFWMD attorneys, with cross examination by the Cortez Village Marina’s attorneys. While testifying and being crossSEE HUNTERS POINT, PAGE 37
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ISLAND NEWS
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JUNE 29, 2022
IN BRIEF
JOE HENDRICKS | SUN JOE HENDRICKS | SUN
The parking spaces at the west end of 23rd Street North are open to the public and cannot be reserved for resort guests only.
Guest-only parking signs removed The Seabreeze at Anna Maria Inn resort located at the west end of 23rd Street North, a beach access point in Bradenton Beach, has removed the signs that said: “Anna Maria Island Inn. Guest Parking Only. All Others May Be Towed at Owner’s Expense.” During the June 16 Bradenton Beach City Commission meeting, Police Chief John Cosby said the resort had no right to claim those parking spaces for resort guests only. Cosby, Public Works Director Tom Woodard and Building Official Steve Gilbert were then tasked with developing a plan to create a designated public parking area at that cityowned street-end, with a portion of the area to be roped off and reserved at all times for first responders and law enforcement officers. Once developed, the parking plan will be brought back to the commission for further discussion and approval.
AME parking available July Fourth weekend Overflow beach parking will be available at Anna Maria Elementary School, 4700 Gulf Drive, Holmes Beach from July 2-4 for the busy Fourth of July holiday weekend. Hours are dawn to dusk, and all parking rules will be enforced. Parking will fill up quickly, so city officials recommend arriving early to get a legal parking space.
Campaign sends aid to Ukraine The Campaign for Ukraine’s first phase of fundraising was successful thanks to the support of the community, local businesses and the Rotary Club of Anna Maria Island. The campaign was the idea of Slicker’s Eatery owner Bob Slicker, who teamed up with the Rotary Club to raise and distribute funds to the people of Ukraine. The funds will aid in medical assistance, food, refugee centers and constantly changing needs. According to Jim McDaniel, president-elect of the Rotary Club of Anna Maria Island, the Concert for Peace held June 12 at The Center of Anna Maria Island brought the total amount raised to $52,000.
Portions of this popular boat landing area east of the Longboat Pass Bridge will soon be off limits to boaters.
Portions of Greer Island closing to boaters The boat landing prohibitions are expected to be in place for the Fourth of July weekend. BY JOE HENDRICKS SUN CORRESPONDENT | jhendricks@amisun.com
LONGBOAT KEY – Boaters will soon be prohibited from pulling ashore at two locations on Greer Island, also known as Beer Can Island, along the east side of the Longboat Pass Bridge. The new restrictions are expected to be in place for the Fourth of July weekend. The Longboat Key Town Commission adopted permanent restrictions on June 20 prohibiting the operation, anchoring and beaching of motorized vessels in two areas at the southeastern portion of Greer Island. Both soonto-be-restricted areas are located at or near the popular landing area just east of the Longboat Pass Bridge, across the bay from Jewfish Key. The town distributed a press release on June 22 regarding the pending prohibition, including a map that highlights in red the prohibited landing areas. “Buoys marking the motorized vessels restricted areas will be installed prior to the 4th of July weekend. Boaters are advised to be aware of these areas, and that violations will carry a $250 penalty for a first offense and $500 for any subsequent offenses,”
TOWN OF LONGBOAT KEY | SUBMITTED
Above, portions of the beach east (right) of the Longboat Pass Bridge are being closed to motorized vessels. Right, pulling a motorized vessel ashore in the areas highlighted in red will soon be prohibited and violators could be fined. according to the press release. “The purpose is to protect public bathers that bathe, wade, lounge and congregate in and on the shallow waters of this portion of Greer Island from dangers caused by increased vessel operations along the beach. These areas will be limited to beachgoers, waders, kayakers, paddleboarders and other non-motorized vessels.” When contacted by The Sun, Longboat Key Planning, Zoning and Building Department Director Allen Parsons said the map contained in the press release is helpful for understanding exactly where the new restrictions will apply.
“The two areas in red, that’s where motorized vessels cannot pull up onto the sand. Our goal is to have the buoys put out by the Fourth of July weekend. There is an area on the east side of the bridge where motorized boats can pull onto the sand,” Parsons said, noting the boat landing prohibitions will be permanent. Parsons said the motorized boat landing prohibitions will not apply to the long stretch of beach that runs along the length of Longboat Pass on the west side of the bridge, between the bridge and the Gulf of Mexico.
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JUNE 29, 2022
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Water ban reversed for July Fourth parade In a policy reversal, water guns are again allowed in the Anna Maria Island Privateers' July Fourth parade, but high powered hoses and spray nozzles are not. BY JASON SCHAFFER SUN CORRESPONDENT | jschaffer@amisun.com
ANNA MARIA ISLAND - After issuing a statement earlier this month about prohibiting the use of water during their annual July Fourth parade, The Anna Maria Island Privateers have reached a truce with Island officials. “The use of water and any device that propels water is restricted and prohibited for parade participants and spectators during the Privateer July Fourth Parade,” Privateer President Kim “Syren” Boyd wrote in a June 8 statement that is now repealed. The reversal was due to
complaints from some parade participants, according to Boyd, who said the Privateers feel that water is an important element of fun associated with the parade. In addition to water sprayed from floats at parade attendees, people along the parade route also bring water guns to shoot at floats on what is most often a hot July morning. Boyd issued a revised statement on June 24 saying that Island mayors consent to the use of water guns, but no water balloons, high powered hoses or spray nozzles will be allowed. The parade forms at Coquina Beach South on Monday, July 4 at 10 a.m., running the length of the Island to Pine Avenue in Anna Maria. It’s first come, first served for participants, and no spaces can be held between floats during lineup, so all participants are encouraged to arrive early and dress for the heat. There is no charge to participate,
JASON SCHAFFER | SUN
Privateers aboard The Skullywag have a water battle with spectators during the 2021 Privateers’ July Fourth parade. but the Privateers are a 501(c) (3) organization and appreciate donations. A portion of all
donations will go to the Roser Church food pantry. For more information on
participating, email kb8746@ gmail.com or visit www. amiprivateers.org.
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OPINION
The Anna Maria Island Sun newspaper 3909 East Bay Drive, Suite 210, Holmes Beach, FL, 34217 Phone: (941) 778-3986 email: news@amisun.com | ads@amisun.com | classifieds@amisun.com
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The Anna Maria Island Sun Staff Owner/CEO Mike Field Editor Cindy Lane General Manager Bob Alexander Reporters/Photographers Joe Hendricks Jason Schaffer Kristin Swain Columnists Louise Bolger Rusty Chinnis Contributors Steve Borggren Captain Rick Grassett Monica Simpson Tom Vaught Captain Dave White Layout Ricardo Fonseca Digital Editor Kristin Swain Advertising Director Shona Otto Advertising Assistant Pamela Lee Classifieds Bob Alexander Graphics Elaine Stroili Ricardo Fonseca Distribution Bob Alexander Connor Field Tony McNulty Brian Smith Accounting Leslie Ketchum Co-founding publishers Mike Field Maggie McGinley Field Family-owned since 2000
LETTERS TO THE EDITOR
Allow water guns at July Fourth parade I have friends over in Clearwater who are very much into the ‘pirate’ activities in our area, Gasparilla etc., and for many years they have participated in the AMI July Fourth parade, riding with lots of other local pirate enthusiasts on the Skullywag float. For years these folks have used water guns for entertainment and heat management (it is July in Florida), but they tell me these are being banned for this year’s parade. The
heat management feature of the water guns is important enough that they are seriously considering skipping this year’s parade. What’s the problem with water guns on the Skullywag when for years they’ve been OK? This sounds like some sort of terminal wimpiness to me. Steve Gorman Holmes Beach
Holmes Beach mayor supports Whitmore I would like to show my full support for Commissioner Whit-
more, our County Commissionerat-Large. Her dedication to the citizens of this county is commendable. It is crucial that our island citizens have a voice on this county board and urge all to lend their support. I can’t imagine the pressures of campaigning during these most extreme, radicalized and hurtful times. I thank Carol for her civic duty, for taking the high road and for being on the right side of history in the decisions that come before this board. Mayor Judy Holmes Titsworth Holmes Beach
Drop us a line Got an opinion, a complaint or a compliment? Is there something you need to get off your chest? Send us a letter to the editor and have your say. There are a couple of ways to do it. The easiest and most direct is to email The Sun at news@amisun.com. Remember to put Letter to the Editor in the subject field. Or you can snail-mail a letter to us at The Anna Maria Island Sun,
P.O. Box 1189, Anna Maria, FL 34216. Letters should be kept to 300 words or less and must contain your name and the city in which you reside. Personal attacks and obscene language will not be printed. The Sun reserves the right to edit letters for length or content.
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JUNE 29, 2022
ON THE AGENDA
ANNA MARIA
10005 GULF DRIVE FOR INFORMATION, CALL 941-708-6130
Please visit www.cityofannamaria.com or contact city hall for more information. July 4, all day – Independence Day holiday, city offices closed
BRADENTON BEACH
107 GULF DRIVE N. FOR INFORMATION, CALL 941-778-1005
Please visit www.cityofbradentonbeach.com or contact city hall for more information. June 30, 9 a.m. – Community Redevelopment Agency work meeting July 4, all day – Independence Day holiday, city offices closed July 6, 9:30 a.m. – Community Redevelopment Agency meeting July 7, 6 p.m. – City Commission meeting July 12, 9 a.m. – City Commission budget work meeting July 13, 1 p.m. – Department head meeting
HOLMES BEACH
5801 MARINA DRIVE FOR INFORMATION, CALL 941-708-5800
Please visit www.holmesbeachfl. org or contact city hall for more information. July 4, all day – Independence Day
holiday, city offices closed July 6, 10 a.m. – Parks and Beautification Committee meeting July 12, 9 a.m. – City Commission budget work session July 13, 6 p.m. – Planning Commission meeting EVENTS
WEDNESDAY, JUNE 29
Beach market, Coquina Beach, 2650 Gulf Drive S., Bradenton Beach, 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. American Seoul, Helena Rho virtual author event, Island Branch Library, 5701 Marina Drive, Holmes Beach, 2 p.m.
THURSDAY, JUNE 30
Sea life origami and stuffy sewing, Island Branch Library, 5701 Marina Drive, Holmes Beach, 10 a.m. Seaside Quilters, Island Branch Library, 5701 Marina Drive, Holmes Beach, noon Sunshine Stitchers knit and crochet, Island Branch Library, 5701 Marina Drive, Holmes Beach, 2 p.m. Thursdays in Paradise Stroll featuring local art, music and food, Bridge Street, Bradenton Beach, 5-8 p.m.
FRIDAY, JULY 1
Beach market, Coquina Beach, 2650 Gulf Drive S., Bradenton Beach, 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Forty Carrots, Island Branch Library, 5701 Marina Drive, Holmes Beach, 10 a.m. Mahjong Club – Experienced Players, Island Branch Library, 5701 Marina Drive, Holmes Beach, 11:30 a.m.
SATURDAY, JULY 2
Robinson Runners, Robinson Preserve, 1704 99th St. N.W., Bradenton, 7 a.m. Sarasota Bay Guardians Planting, Robinson Preserve, 1704 99th St. N.W., Bradenton, 9 a.m. to noon Saturday mornings at the NEST, Robinson Preserve Mosaic Nest, 840 Ninth Ave. N.W., Bradenton, 9 a.m. to noon. Fireworks, Sandbar, 100 Spring Ave., Anna Maria, 9 p.m.
MONDAY, JULY 4
AMI Privateer’s Fourth of July Parade, begins at Coquina Beach and travels north to the Anna Maria City Pier, 10 a.m.
TUESDAY, JULY 5
Family story time, Island Branch Library, 5701 Marina Drive, Holmes Beach, 10 a.m.
THE SUN
Rotary Club of Anna Maria Island meeting, Slicker’s Eatery, 12012 Cortez Road W., Bradenton, 11:30 a.m. Mahjong for Beginners, Island Branch Library, 5701 Marina Drive, Holmes Beach, 11:30 a.m. One-on-one tech help, Island Branch Library, 5701 Marina Drive, Holmes Beach, 2-3:30 p.m.
WEDNESDAY, JULY 6
Beach market, Coquina Beach, 2650 Gulf Drive S., Bradenton Beach, 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.
THURSDAY, JULY 7
Oceans of pottery painting, 5701 Marina Drive, Holmes Beach, 10 a.m. Sunshine Stitchers Knit and Crochet, Island Branch Library, 5701 Marina Drive, Holmes Beach, 2 p.m. Thursdays in Paradise Stroll featuring local art, music and food, Bridge Street, Bradenton Beach, 5-8 p.m.
FRIDAY, JULY 8
Beach market, Coquina Beach, 2650 Gulf Drive S., Bradenton Beach, 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Forty Carrots, Island Branch Library, 5701 Marina Drive, Holmes Beach, 10 a.m.
7
Mahjong Club, experienced players, Island Branch Library, 5701 Marina Drive, Holmes Beach, 11:30 a.m.
SATURDAY, JULY 9
Robinson Runners, Robinson Preserve, 1704 99th St. N.W., Bradenton, 7 a.m. Saturday mornings at the NEST, Robinson Preserve Mosaic Nest, 840 Ninth Ave. N.W., Bradenton, 9 a.m. to noon Origami Club, Island Branch Library, 5701 Marina Drive, Holmes Beach, 10 a.m. Music on the Porch, Florida Maritime Museum, 4415 119th St. W., Cortez, 2-4 p.m.
TUESDAY, JULY 12
Family story time, Island Branch Library, 5701 Marina Drive, Holmes Beach, 10 a.m. Mahjong Club, beginners, Island Branch Library, 5701 Marina Drive, Holmes Beach, 11:30 a.m. Rotary Club of Anna Maria Island meeting, Slicker’s Eatery, 12012 Cortez Road W., Bradenton, 11:30 a.m. Tech Help, Island Branch Library, 5701 Marina Drive, Holmes Beach, 2-3:30 p.m.
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THE SUN
JUNE 29, 2022
County budgets $18 million to treat Piney Point water BY LESLIE LAKE SUN CORRESPONDENT
PALMETTO – With the expectation of reimbursement from the state of Florida, Manatee County commissioners have unanimously approved a $17.9 million expenditure to build a water pre-treatment facility at Piney Point. At a June 13 land use meeting, County Attorney William Clague strongly urged the commission to approve the outlay of funds for a designbuild agreement and amendment for pre-treatment facilities for phosphate process wastewater from the former phosphate plant. “We began the process of locking in the cost of this project because staff is dealing with intensive inflationary pressure,” Clague said. “We’re dealing with an unusual situation and want to get our state funding resolved while locking in prices.” The Piney Point property, located near Port Manatee, is owned by HRK Holdings, which purchased the phosphate processing plant in 2006. The property contains three lined phosphogypsum disposal stacks that contain retention ponds for phosphate process water.
FILE PHOTO
A 3,300-foot-deep well to contain wastewater is under construction near Piney Point at 3105 Buckeye Road and is expected to be completed by next spring. A leak in one pond in March 2021 resulted in FDEP approving the dumping of 215 million gallons of contaminated water into Tampa Bay to prevent flooding of nearby homes and businesses should the stacks collapse. That discharge of contaminated water spread throughout both Tampa and Sarasota bays, transporting nitrogen and phosphorus that exacerbated a
HOLIDAY WEEKEND
bloom of red tide which lasted from April to November. The FDEP issued a draft permit for Manatee County in October 2021 to build a deep injection well to contain the contaminated water, and on Dec. 22, drilling began at the site on Buckeye Road in Palmetto. The well will be drilled to a depth of 3,300 feet below the surface and used to permanently
contain the process water that will be drained from the reservoirs on top of the phosphogypsum stacks. The water will be pre-treated before injection. County Administrator Scott Hopes said that under a verbal agreement, the state will cover all the capital costs of pre-treatment and the systems necessary to inject the water into the underground injection well. “It (the contaminated water) will go through a system of filters and sediment and chemical treatments to balance ph, etc. and then all those pumps necessary will then inject it into the well,” Hopes said. Clague told commissioners that the intention is for the state to shoulder the full cost. “We are in the process of negotiating our funding with the state,” he said. Clague expects to have the full funding agreement in place by the end of the commission’s summer recess and said the county will pay up front and be reimbursed by the state. “The reason that we’re bringing it in when we did is that we finally have that price guarantee,” Hopes said. “This allows us to lock down a price.” SEE PINEY POINT, PAGE 9
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County requests modification to FDEP disposal permits BY LESLIE LAKE SUN CORRESPONDENT
PALMETTO – In what Manatee County officials are calling their ongoing effort to write the final chapter in the Piney Point site closure, they are working with the Florida Department of Environmental Protection (FDEP) to make minor modifications to disposal permits. According to a Manatee County-issued press release, the county Utilities Department has submitted an application to FDEP to modify a permit to allow more injection of brine (saltwater) at the Buffalo Creek municipal well. The request comes after Allied Uni-
versal Industries has stepped up chlorine production at its Palmetto facility. The manufacturer’s products are used to clean Piney Point phosphate process water in preparation for its eventual injection into a deep well now under construction at 3105 Buckeye Road. "This is a typical permit modification,” Manatee County Administrator Scott Hopes said. “Allied has increased their chlorine production at a plant that was built with Manatee County economic incentives and we are fortunate that they are nearby Piney Point to help with the pre-treatment of that process water.” Because of the increase in chlorine production, there has been an uptick
Palma Sola no-swim advisory lifted The no-swim advisory has been lifted for south Palma Sola Bay, located along Manatee Avenue West. Bacteria counts have dropped to acceptable levels and the public can once again safely swim in the water, according to the Florida De-
partment of Health in Manatee County. The Healthy Beaches Monitoring Program provides residents with updated information about water quality to protect the health of Manatee County beachgoers. For more information, call 941-714-7593.
in the brine that is left over from that process, according to the county’s release. The county is working with Allied to reduce the disposal burden as an alternative to trucking the saltwater that remains to disposal facilities in other Florida counties. According to the Allied LinkedIn account, the company is “Florida’s largest manufacturer of sodium hypochlorite supplying water treatment chemicals throughout the Southeastern United States, Caribbean and Latin America.” The Buffalo Creek Injection well, 8500 69th St. E., was initially designed to dispose of brine that would have been created with a reverse-osmosis water
filtration plan. This use would be a modification of the permit, but it is a similar use, according to the county’s statement. The permit modification does not represent a change in what will be disposed of in the well, nor does it mean that Piney Point process water destined for the Buckeye Road well will routinely go into the Buffalo Creek well. Some contingencies have been identified where the process water could go into the Buffalo Creek well, but only as a backup. “This is a real team effort,” Hopes said. “We are all doing everything we can to bring this Piney Point story to a close. Quickly. Completely. And safely.”
PINEY POINT: $18 million to treat water FROM PAGE 8
Hopes said that an exchange of written agreements with the state will include full reimbursement of the costs on a schedule. “The schedule is 25%, then 50%, then 25%,” he said. “By the time this is completed we will have received those funds from the state.” In April 2021, the state made a commitment of $100 million for Piney Point response efforts and the implementation of a long-term plan to permanently close the property. Hopes said that the final stacks will be closed by the end of 2024, ahead of schedule.
Commissioner James Satcher moved to approve the resolution, which was seconded by Commissioner Vanessa Baugh. “The most important issue here for the county as a whole is that it’s getting taken care of, finally after so many years. And we ended up going with the injection well because we had no choice. We waited to the point that it started leaking pretty badly,” Baugh said. “The good news is the water is being treated before it goes down the well.” “I want everyone to feel confident that this has been handled in the best way possible,” Commissioner Misty
Servia said. Commission Chair Kevin Van Ostenbridge said that the commission had no other option. According to the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) the use of deep wells for injection of industrial waste began in the 1950s. “As chemical manufacturing increased, so did the use of deep injection. Injection proved to be a safe and inexpensive option for the disposal of unwanted and often hazardous industrial byproducts,” according to the EPA website.
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THE SUN
County commission races set
JUNE 29, 2022
Roser Church
“...a beautiful place to explore your faith...”
The winners of two of the three county commission races will be determined in the August primary elections. BY JOE HENDRICKS
SUN CORRESPONDENT | jhendricks@amisun.com
MANATEE COUNTY – Five candidates have qualified to run in the race for the Manatee County Commission District 6 at-large seat. The candidates are incumbent Republican Com- Bearden missioner Carol Whitmore, Republican challengers Jason Bearden and Carol Ann Felts and write-in candidates Robert Lesher and Manuel Antonio Llamas. Because of the two write-in candidates, the winner of the race will be determined by Felts registered Republican voters countywide during the primary election that concludes on Tuesday, Aug. 23. Voters registered as Democrats or with other nonRepublican party affiliations are not eligible to vote in the primary. For information on Whitmore changing party affiliation, visit the Manatee County
Supervisor of Elections website, www. votemanatee.com or call the elections office at 941-741-3823.
FUNDRAISING
As of June 24, Whitmore, a Holmes Beach resident and former Holmes Beach mayor, reported $120,251 in campaign contributions, $1,627 in additional in-kind contributions and $17,027 in campaign expenditures thus far. Bearden reported $73,657 in campaign contributions, $16,351 in additional in-kind contributions and $47,260 in campaign expenditures. Felts reported $8,000 in campaign contributions, zero in-kind contributions and $5,696 in campaign expenditures. Lesher and Llamas reported no campaign contributions or expenditures.
OTHER COUNTY RACES
In the District 2 race, incumbent Democratic County Commissioner Reggie Bellamy is challenged by former Democratic County Commissioner Charles Smith and Republican Amanda Ballard. The District 4 County Commission race pits Republican incumbent Commissioner Misty Servia against Republican challenger Mike Rahn and write-in candidates Daniel Hansen and Timothy Norwood. This primary race is also closed to nonRepublican voters and the winner will be decided during the August primaries.
SUNDAY WORSHIP 8:30 AM in the Chapel 10:00 AM in the Sanctuary Nursery • Children’s Church
ONLINE • Watch LIVE or LATER
RoserChurch.com
Text ROSER to 22828 to receive the weekly eBulletin The CHAPEL is open during office hours for prayer and meditation 941-778-0414 • 512 Pine Ave, Anna Maria • FOLLOW us on Facebook @RoserChurch
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JUNE 29, 2022
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11
Governor vetoes Local Business Protection Act The proposed legislation could have significantly impacted local governments’ ability to adopt and amend municipal ordinances.
I thank Gov. DeSantis for having the wisdom and courage to veto this piece of legislation.” Dan Murphy, Anna Maria mayor
BY JOE HENDRICKS SUN CORRESPONDENT | jhendricks@amisun.com
ANNA MARIA ISLAND – City officials are pleased and relieved that Gov. Ron DeSantis has vetoed Senate Bill 620, a controversial bill that sought to give local businesses the ability to sue local governments for lost revenues. The proposed legislation, known as the Local Business Protection Act, was supported by the Florida House and Senate earlier this year, but will not become state law because of DeSantis’ Friday veto. The legislation proposed that “A private, for-profit business may claim business damages from a county or municipality if the county or municipality enacts or amends an ordinance or a charter provision that has or will cause a reduction of at least 15% of the business’ profit as applied on a per location basis of a business operated within the jurisdiction.” The affected business would have had to have been engaged in
FILE PHOTO
Anna Maria Mayor Dan Murphy worked to lobby against the proposed legislation. lawful business in the jurisdiction for the three years preceding the enactment of or amendment to the ordinance or charter. Sen. Travis Hutson, R-Palm Coast, sponsored the proposed state law and Sen. Jim Boyd, R-Bradenton, and Rep. Will Robinson Jr., RBradenton, voted in support of the legislation. Using the city-operated Home Rule Florida website and communication tools, Anna Maria City Commission Chair Carol Carter, Mayor Dan Murphy and lobbyist Chip Case were at the forefront of the statewide opposition to the pro-
5346 Gulf Drive, Holmes Beach (941) 778-5788 | hurricanehanks.com
posed legislation. Throughout the 2022 legislative session that ended in March, the Home Rule Florida website was used to encourage citizens to contact the governor and state legislators and express their opposition to SB 620 and other concerning legislation. “This is certainly welcome news,” Carter said of the governor’s veto. “Once again, the governor has supported the local municipalities and their home rule rights. If enacted, this bill could have cost local governments much in the way of time and dollars to defend themselves against ‘bad apple’ businesses making intentional frivolous claims about their business damages.” “I thank Gov. DeSantis for having the wisdom and courage to veto this piece of legislation,” Murphy said. “Without his veto, local govern-
ments would have been hamstrung when passing any new legislation. This is a real victory, not only for preserving the city’s home rule rights, but also for common sense in government.” Anna Maria Commissioner Robert Kingan said, “This decision will have all local governments in Florida, including the city of Anna Maria, breathing a collective sigh of relief. Clearly, the governor has listened to communities throughout the state and consigned this iniquitous piece of legislation to the trash bin, at least for now.” Holmes Beach Mayor Judy Titsworth agreed, saying, “I am happy about the decision, as cities continue to struggle in retaining the ability to regulate and maintain quality of life for their residents and visitors.”
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JUNE 29, 2022
Fire district to reallocate taxpayer funds A letter sent out to property owners in WMFR’s district details how the fire district is moving funds to pay for non-transport ALS paramedic service, but assessments aren’t increasing because of it. BY KRISTIN SWAIN SUN STAFF WRITER | kswain@amisun.com
MANATEE COUNTY – Property owners who are confused by a six-page letter arriving from West Manatee Fire Rescue District staff are not alone. The letter, legally required to be mailed to every property owner in the district, covers two separate topics – that the district’s staff is reallocating some taxpayer funds to cover non-transport advanced life support service and that the district’s non-ad valorem assessment will increase for the 2022-23 tax year beginning Oct. 1. The non-transport ALS service is not new to WMFR or the people it serves in the district, and the assessment rate increase isn’t happening because of the
increase in service. In fact, WMFR’s non-transport ALS service has been ongoing for the last few years. Now that it’s fully launched at all three fire stations and the majority of the district’s first responders have been fully trained as paramedics, attorney Maggie Mooney said it’s time for staff to send out a letter informing taxpayers that some of the funds the district receives are being spent to provide the service. With the non-transport ALS service, WMFR firefighters provide the same critical care service that EMS provides except that they cannot transport patients to the hospital. And the cost SEE WMFR, PAGE 13
SUBMITTED | WMFR
WMFR recognizes promotion, life-saving team Above, Members of West Manatee Fire Rescue District’s staff gather to congratulate Crystal Tucciarone on her promotion to firefighter/paramedic third-class during a June 21 fire board meeting. Left, Jake Seubert, center, thanks three of the four firefighter/paramedics from West Manatee Fire Rescue who helped save his life after a Sept. 19, 2021 cycling accident where he sustained serious injuries and had to be transported by helicopter to All Children’s Hospital in St. Petersburg.
JUNE 29, 2022
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JOE HENDRICKS | SUN
‛S YOUR COMFORT ZONE? WHERE
Several Anna Maria streets being paved in June The city of Anna Maria is repaving several streets throughout the city. Willow Avenue, above, was paved last week. The list of the streets to be paved is posted at the city website, www. cityofannamaria.com.
WMFR: District to reallocate taxpayer funds FROM PAGE 12
of the enhanced service has been factored into the district’s budget for more than three years, meaning that the increase in the assessment rate isn’t directly related to the increase in service. Reasons for the assessment rate increase include a jump in the personal income growth number used to determine how much a special district like WMFR can increase rates each year, rising costs due to insurance and a new contract with the firefighters’ union, and an attempt to build reserve funds for future large purchases, such as replacement fire engines. Assessment rates are planned to increase 4% for the new fiscal year over the current rates. For a residential property owner with a home of 2,000 square feet, the rate will increase to $336.22, a $12.94 increase over the 2021-22 fiscal year. Commercial property owners also will see a 4% increase with the rate increasing to $753.19 for a 2,000-square-foot property, an increase of $28.96. Anyone who has questions about the non-transport ALS service and how it affects the assessment rate or who wishes to dispute the assessment rate increase is invited to attend a public hearing on Tuesday, July 19 at 6 p.m. at the district’s administration building at 701 63rd St. W. in Bradenton.
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JUNE 29, 2022
Paid parking, alcohol ordinance discussions delayed The Sandbar’s paid parking site plan amendment and the city’s amended alcoholic beverages ordinance are scheduled for discussion on July 14. BY JOE HENDRICKS SUN CORRESPONDENT | jhendricks@amisun.com
ANNA MARIA – Three items included on the June 23 commission agenda have been postponed until Thursday, July 14. The mayor’s update on a right of way use permit needed to build a new beachfront home at 105 Elm Ave. was delayed, as was commission discussion on a paid parking lot and an amended alcoholic beverages ordinance.
The Planning and Zoning Board did not have a quorum when they met on June 22, necessitating the delay. The board was scheduled to review the amended Sandbar site plan for paid parking and the amended alcoholic beverage ordinance that day, but the items were rescheduled for Monday, June 27. The Sandbar’s site plan amendment pertains to the paid parking lot and payment kiosk already in use at the restaurant’s privately owned overflow parking lot along Gulf Drive, between Spring Lane and Magnolia Avenue. That parking lot now provides, for a fee, all-day parking for beachgoers, restaurant patrons and others. An amended site plan is needed to formalize the use of that property for paid parking.
JOE HENDRICKS | SUN
The parking kiosk provides beachgoers and others with parking in one of the Sandbar restaurant’s overflow parking lots. The amended alcoholic beverages ordinance addresses the sale of liquor and other alcoholic beverages at commercial entities other than restaurants and
bars, including but not limited to package liquor stores. The amended ordinance will also require a special use permit to sell liquor during special events at The Center
and The Island Players theater, or beer and wine at the Anna Maria Island Historical Museum. Due to Mayor Dan Murphy’s absence at Thursday’s meeting, he was unable to provide the commission with an update on a pending right of way use permit needed to build a new home at 105 Elm Ave. Murphy is scheduled to meet with Dan Gagne of Gagne Construction this week to discuss the additional drainage requirements sought by the city commission before granting final approval of a city-issued right of way permit that would allow Elm Avenue to be extended in order to provide a street connection to the driveway of the new home to be built for property owner Fedora Campbell.
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JUNE 29, 2022
BEACH BEAT BRADENTON BEACH
6/16, 8:30 a.m., grand theft, 1301 Bay Drive N. An officer was dispatched in reference to a theft of a kayak. The victim said the kayak, valued at $2,500, was taken sometime the previous night. The officer checked the area for any security cameras that might have captured the theft, but nothing was found. There was no physical evidence on the scene and no further action was taken. 6/16, 7:32 p.m., Marchman Act, 117 Bridge St. While on patrol, an officer noticed an intoxicated man passed out along the sidewalk, almost rolled under a car parked in front of the Daiquiri Deck. The subject was uncooperative and due to his intoxicated state and not being able to care for himself, a Marchman Act was filed. While dealing with the man,
the officer sustained an injury to his finger. 6/18, 5:29 p.m., property damage, 900 Gulf Drive S. The officer responded to Cortez Beach public parking in reference to a man who said that after returning to his Jeep after three hours on the beach, his tire was slashed and a note reading “got you back” was left on his windshield. The man told the officer he had a brief encounter with another man who was angry about a parking spot dispute, but the man drove off without incident. The victim could only give a description of the other driver, but did not have his plate number or any details that would be helpful in finding the man. The officer took the note and pictures of the tire and placed them into evidence. No further action was taken.
HOLMES BEACH
6/19, 9:08 p.m., trespass warning, 3200 E. Bay Drive. After being dispatched to
Walgreens in reference to a shoplifting, the officer made contact with a male suspect who had put two towels over his shoulders while looking at clothing. The officer said the man did not appear nervous, and said he had no intention of shoplifting the towels. He also showed the officer that he had $500 in cash on him at the time. The manager requested the man to be trespassed, so he was told he could not return to Walgreens, but no charges were filed. 6/20, 11:49 p.m., Code ordinance violation/camping, 3900 Sixth Ave. While on patrol, the officer saw two people asleep on a bench. The officer had already dealt with the couple earlier for the same offense and issued them warnings for alcohol and camping violations. Both individuals were heavily intoxicated and agitated after being awakened. Both were issued notices to appear for the second violation.
THE SUN
OBITUARIES Mildred Irene Taylor Mildred Irene Taylor, age 90, passed away on Saturday, June 25, 2022 at Blake Medical Center in Bradenton after an extended illness. She was born Aug. 12, 1931 in Cortez, Florida to Walton “Tink” and Edith Wilson Fulford. She graduated from high school in Bradenton, attended college in Florida and Tennessee and was then trained as a medical technologist at Florida State Hospital in Chattahoochee. She married another Cortez native, Hardy Taylor, in 1954 after he returned home from the Korean War. She and Hardy lived in St. Petersburg, Florida, where she worked as a medical technologist. They had three children, Darrell Alan, Timothy Leroy and Cinthia Irene. Irene and Hardy were longtime mem-
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bers of the Northside Church of Christ in St. Petersburg. Irene loved children, her large extended family and always warmly opened her home to all. She was predeceased by her parents; her husband of 36 years, Hardy Leroy Taylor; sons, Darrell and Timothy; brother, Ralph Fulford; and sisters, Mary Fulford Green and Belinda Porterfield. She is survived by her daughter, Cinthia Irene Taylor; three grandchildren, Kailey Nicole Taylor, Brandon Cole Taylor and Carson Taylor; sister, Ann Dean Riddick, of Searcy, Arkansas; brothers, Wayne (Betty) Fulford, of Stanley, North Carolina and Gary Fulford, of Bradenton; and many nieces and nephews. There will be no local services. Burial will be at Skyway Memorial Cemetery in Palmetto. Memorial donations may be made to St. Jude Children’s Hospital Memorial Giving, 501 St. Jude Place, Memphis, Tennessee 38105.
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JUNE 29, 2022
Brian Haddix remembered Brian Haddix was a beloved man in the greater Anna Maria Island community. BY JOE HENDRICKS SUN CORRESPONDENT | jhendricks@amisun.com
BRADENTON – Longtime Anna Maria Island resident Brian Haddix passed away at Tidewell Hospice on June 21. Brian was 52 years old when he passed. That day, Brian’s son, Elijah, shared the news of his father’s death at Brian’s Facebook page. “I'm here to pass on the very sad news that my father is no longer with us. Please feel free to remember and tell stories in the comments below. Thank you, and God bless,” Elijah wrote. Elijah’s post produced 116 comments as of Sunday morning. Tracy Wimpy wrote: “Sweet Elijah, I’m so very sorry to hear of your daddy’s passing. He was such an amazing and sweet friend to us and everyone he met.” Shana Sawyer Miller wrote: “There's so many memories I can think of, but I think the greatest ones I’ll ever have of your dad Elijah is the first time I saw him in 35 years and got to hug him, and when we slow danced on the beach at sunset to a playlist I made of songs that we’d sent each other over time. ‘Come Away with Me’ by Nora Jones was the first song. Some friends helped me out and set up white lights around a beach tent. I surprised him with that, and we danced under it. He’ll always be a part of me wherever I go and whatever I do. He made me appreciate the little things again. He loved the wrestling event you brought him to. I know he was afraid he’d be too sick, but he made it and he had a great time.” Mike Larimore wrote: “The lasting memory of your dad is that ‘Core’ smile and his upbeat take on life in general, regardless of circumstances. He was a good man and we were lucky to know him.” Sissy Quinn noted Brian’s active Facebook presence and wrote: “I for one will miss his many posts of beauty, kindness, education, etc. He was a real treasure!” Darcie Duncan wrote: “Your daddy was such a sweet friend to me and so many others for so many years.” Cindy Thompson wrote: He was a one-of-a-kind soul, and has a huge tribe of friends, and island locals who can all remember a
JOE HENDRICKS | SUN
Brian Haddix, left, was accompanied by his dog, Roscoe, and his son, Elijah Haddix, at the fundraising benefit held for him in December.
JOE HENDRICKS | SUN
Brian Haddix was well-known and much loved on and around Anna Maria Island. "Hardcore" story from first-hand experience. He will be missed and remembered in every island sunset. Christopher Banan wrote: “His kindness and humble spirit was a great example of the Island brotherhood we experienced back in the day that barely exists now, mostly because everyone has gone their separate ways and a lot of old school friends have moved away or passed on.” Rob McGrath helped organize the Brian Haddix benefit at Bunny & Pirates Bazaar in Cortez last December. At his own Facebook page, McGrath wrote: “I’m very sad to hear of your passing today. I am very thankful that you were in good hands and not suffering at the Hospice house. I’m really glad we were able to pull off the benefit for you. I know it provided for you while you couldn’t work. I'm glad you got to take the train ride you always wanted to do. I’m also glad your heart found love in your last days. I’m thankful I was able to get you out on the water one
ROB MCGRATH | SUBMITTED
Brian Haddix enjoyed a wealth of friends and memorable experiences during his life on and around Anna Maria Island. last time too. You may not have died with all the toys, but you had a lot of friends who truly cared about you and that says so much more than any possessions. You always had a smile to share and the biggest heart. That’s probably why you had so many friends. You will be missed by many, but all the great times we all shared together will last us forever. Here’s to all the good times, the scraps, the early days at The Center and the tears of laughter we all shared with each other. Most of all, you will be remembered for that great big heart of yours.” To McGrath’s post, Rose Lipke added: “Fair winds and following seas my friend.” A memorial service/celebration of life for Haddix is currently being discussed, but no plans had been formalized or announced as of Sunday.
JUNE 29, 2022
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BUSINESS
ANTIQUE/COLLECTIBLE STORE GINNY’S & JANE E’S 9807 Gulf Drive Anna Maria, 778-3170
AUTO SERVICE HOLMES BEACH AUTOMOTIVE SERVICE 5333 Gulf Drive Holmes Beach, 779-0487
BAIT & TACKLE SHOP ANNIE’S BAIT & TACKLE 4334 127th St. W. Cortez, 794-3580
BANK HANCOCK WHITNEY BANK 5324 Gulf Drive Holmes Beach, 778-4900
BIKE RENTAL BEACH BUMS RENTALS
427 Pine Ave. Anna Maria, 778-3316
BOATING STORE WEST MARINE
Bradenton, 34208
CAR WASH BLUE DOLPHIN
505 Cortez Rd W Bradenton, 34207
CARPET CLEANER FAT CAT CARPET CLEANING
FLOOR COVERINGS WADE’S
3801 9th Ave W. Bradenton, 778-2882
2911 Cortez Rd W Bradenton, 34210 941-758-5049
CBD STORE LIVE NATURALLY
JUNE 29, 2022
HEAT & AIR ANTHONY’S HEATING AND COOLING 1614 20th St. E. Palmetto, 749-5307
FLORIST BLOOMS BY THE BEACH
HOME BUILDER WASH FAMILY CONSTRUCTION
GIFT SHOP IRENE’S RESORT WEAR
HOTEL/MOTEL COMPASS HOTEL
CONVENIENCE STORE ANNA MARIA GENERAL STORE AND DELI
GOLF CART RENTAL BEACH BUMS
JEWELRY STORE IRENE’S RESORT WEAR
DRY CLEANER COURTESY CLEANERS
GROCERY STORE PUBLIX SUPERMARKET
LIQUOR STORE HURRICANE HANKS LIQUOR
ELECTRICIAN ANTHONY’S HEATING AND COOLING
HAIR SALON SALT AND SCISSORS SALON
MANICURIST JESSICA
5337 Gulf Dr #200 Holmes Beach, 34217
2501 Gulf Drive Bradenton Beach, 778-2555
CLOTHING STORE IRENE’S RESORT WEAR
5308 Marina Drive Holmes Beach, 778-7605
503 Pine Ave. Anna Maria, 779-9200
7421 Manatee Ave. W. Bradenton, 794-5145
1614 20th St. E. Palmetto, 749-5307
FITNESS THE VILLAGE HEALTH @ WELLNESS
5308 Marina Drive Holmes Beach, 778-7605
427 Pine Ave Anna Maria, 778-3316
3900 East Bay Drive Holmes Beach, 778-5422
313C Pine Ave Holmes Beach, 961-4458
HARDWARE STORE TRUE VALUE
5324 Marina Drive Holmes Beach, 778-2811
nothing
brings people
together
like
good food
941.778.1515 | 111 South Bay Blvd | Anna Maria Island, FL.
407 72nd St Holmes Beach, 941-725-0073
12324 Manatee Ave W. Bradenton, 741-9700
5308 Marina Drive Holmes Beach, 778-7605
5344 Gulf Dr Holmes Beach, 941-779-2337
Salt and Scissors Salon 313C Pine Ave Holmes Beach, 961-4458 SEE READERS, PAGE 19
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JUNE 29, 2022
FROM PAGE 18
MARINA KEYES MARINA
5501 Marina Dr Holmes Beach, 941-778-1977
MEN’S APPAREL PINEAPPLE JUNCTION
425 Pine Ave Anna Maria, 941-216-4226
OUTDOOR SPORTS STORE AMI OUTFITTERS COASTAL GEAR & APPAREL 401 Pine Ave. Anna Maria, 254-4996
PACK & SHIP ISLAND MAIL & MORE
3230 East Bay Drive Holmes Beach, 778-1911
PAINTER RON WELDON WELDON CUSTOM PAINTING 4202 2nd Ave NW Bradenton, 941-714-0229
PEST CONTROL ANNA MARIA PEST CONTROL 11610 3rd Ave. E. Bradenton, 778-1630
PET GROOMING THE PAW SPA
5343 Gulf Drive Holmes Beach, 778-0885
PET STORE PETCO ANIMAL SUPPLIES 6757 Manatee Ave. W. Bradenton, 792-1295
PHARMACIST JOE – WALGREENS
3200 East Bay Drive. Holmes Beach, 778-0451
PHARMACY WALGREENS
3200 East Bay Drive Holmes Beach, 778-0451
PLUMBER AIR & ENERGY
555 6th Ave. W. Bradenton, 778-0773
POOL CLEANER RYAN HOGAN STAND UP POOLS POOL CONTRACTOR ROYAL POOLSCAPES
7282 55th Ave E Bradenton, 218-2150
REAL ESTATE ASSOCIATE JOHN DAMATO
Sato Real Estate Inc. 519 Pine Ave. Anna Maria, 778-7200
REAL ESTATE COMPANY SATO REAL ESTATE INC.
519 Pine Ave. Anna Maria, 778-7200
RENTAL COMPANY SATO REAL ESTATE INC.
519 Pine Ave. Anna Maria, 778-7200
RESORT ANNA MARIA ISLAND RESORTS The Tortuga Inn 1325 Gulf Drive Bradenton Beach, 778-6611
RETIREMENT COMMUNITY FREEDOM VILLAGE 6406 21st Ave W. Bradenton, 210-6153
SERVICE ORGANIZATION EASTER SEALS 350 Brown Ave Sarasota, 34243 355-7637
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SERVICE STATION GROOMS AUTOMOTIVE
5608 Marina Dr Holmes Beach, 896-7898
SHOPPING CENTER ISLAND SHOPPING PLAZA 5414 Marina Dr Holmes Beach
SOUVENIR SHOP BRIDGE ST BAZAAR
107 Bridge St Bradenton Beach, 778-3443
SPA BODY & SOL SPA AND WELLNESS 9805 Gulf Dr Anna Maria, 941-650-5441
TRAVEL AGENCY SPLENDID ESCAPE 941-724-0508
WINDOW REPAIR GRAYHAWK WINDOWS
6008 Cortez Rd W Bradenton, 941-527-7222
WOMEN’S APPAREL IRENE’S RESORT WEAR
5308 Marina Drive Holmes Beach, 778-7605 SEE READERS, PAGE 20
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FROM PAGE 19
PEOPLE & PLACES ARCHITECT ALLISON KAFFKA & ASSOCIATES 5303 4th Ave W Bradenton
ARCHITECTURAL DESIGN EMILY ANNE SMITH LLC
527 74th St. Holmes Beach, 778-3113
ART GALLERY ISLAND GALLERY WEST
5368 Gulf Drive Holmes Beach, 778-6648
ATTORNEY NICK SATO
2071 Ringling Blvd. #400 Sarasota, 861-4400
BAND
Pam Ward
BAR & GRILL HARRY’S GRILL
9903 Gulf Drive Anna Maria, 567-5999
BARTENDER ABBY MONDO HARRY’S BAR & GRILL
9903 Gulf Dr. Anna Maria, 941-567-5999
BEACH COQUINA BEACH BOAT CAPTAIN AARON LOWMAN SEAFOOD SHACK
4110 127 St W Cortez, 941-465-8932
BUSINESS PERSON MIKE ZEPPI ANTHONY’S HEATING & COOLING 1614 20th St. E. Palmetto, 749-5307
CATERER MOLLY O’CONNOR TRAVELING GOURMET
Anna Maria, 405-7627
CHARITY ROSER CHURCH
512 Pine Ave Anna Maria, 778-0414
CHEF EZIO ISOLA BELLA ITALIAN EATERY 5904 Marina Dr Holmes Beach, 242-5309
CHIROPRACTOR ADJUST YOUR LIFE
10910 SR 70E Ste. #101 Lakewood Ranch, 799-7207
DENTIST FLORIDA DENTAL CENTERS
5215 Manatee Ave W Bradenton, 941-792-7887
DOCTOR STEPHEN PELHAM, M.D.
3909 East Bay Drive #100 Holmes Beach, 778-1007
EYE CARE EYE CENTER
65106 Manatee Ave W Bradenton, 941-795-2020
FINANCIAL PLANNER EDWARD JONES
JB Tucker 3226 East Bay Dr. Holmes Beach, 779-2499
FISHING CHARTER GRAHAM SLAM FISHING CHARTER 4628 119th St W Cortez, 779-4078
JUNE 29, 2022
INTERIOR DESIGN HOLLY LOGAN
1863 Irving St Sarasota, 952-9490
INDIVIDUAL ENTERTAINER STEVE ARVERY stevearvey@aol.com
MASSAGE THERAPY ALUNA WELLNESS
2219 Gulf Dr N Bradenton beach, 778-8400
PERSONAL TRAINER BREANNA NEWTON
Home Fitness by Bre
SCHOOL ANNA MARIA ELEMENTARY 4700 Gulf Drive Holmes Beach, 708-5525
SCHOOL TEACHER KIM WILDER
Gene Witt Elementary 200 Rye Rd E Bradenton
VETERINARIAN CONNOR BYSTROM PALMA SOLA ANIMAL CLINIC 6116 Manatee Ave W. Bradenton, 794-3275
SEE READERS, PAGE 27
JUNE 29, 2022
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For All Your HVAC and Electrical Needs Call Anthony's ...We're in Your Neighborhood!
(941) 778-0100 6X Award Winner Mike Zeppi, Favorite Business Person
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JUNE 29, 2022
! u o y k Than
Tacos
Burgers
Seafood
FAVORITE MARGARITA
FAVORITE MEXICAN RESTAURANT
www.WickedCantina.com
Live Music ~ Gulf View Dining ~ Full Parking BRADENTON BEACH ~ 101 7th St. North ~ Open Daily 7:30 am - 10 pm SARASOTA ~ 1603 N. Tamiami Trail ~ Open Daily 11 am - 10 pm
Happy Hour 12 - 5 Daily and ALL DAY Sunday
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For All Your Electrical & HVAC Needs Call Anthony's ...We're in Your Neighborhood!
(941) 778-0100 6X Award Winner Favorite Electrician
Th
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Th
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Island Gallery West 5368 Gulf Drive, Holmes Beach, AMI Voted Anna Maria Island’s Favorite Art Gallery!
2022
Thanks to all you wonderful art lovers and Sun readers that voted for Island Gallery West as your favorite local art gallery! Come visit us soon and see the best artwork the Island has to offer.
Live Music on our Patio
Anna Maria's Favorite Hang Out
Open Tuesday - Sunday 10am-5pm islandgallerywest.com (941)778-6648
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THANK T HANK YO YOU U SO M MUCH! UCH!
Best Sub/Sandwich & Café on AMI
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JUNE 29, 2022
FROM PAGE 20
VETERINARIAN CLINIC DESOTO ANIMAL CLINIC 2910 Manatee Ave W Bradenton, 748-2637
VIEW SANDBAR RESTAURANT
100 Spring Ave Anna Maria, 778-0444
WAITER/WAITRESS MELISSA SMILEY UGLY GROUPER
5704 Marina Drive Holmes Beach, 778-4402
YOGA INSTRUCTOR SHARON MEIER THRIVE YOGA STUDIO
8819 Cortez Rd W Bradenton, 570-497-7801
FOOD & ENTERTAINMENT BAGEL SHOP PARADISE BAGELS & CAFÉ
3220 E. Bay Drive Holmes Beach, 779-1212
THE SUN
BAKERY HOMETOWN DESSERTS
DELI SCOTT’S DELI
ITALIAN RESTAURANT ISOLA BELLA ITALIAN EATERY
BARBEQUE SMOQEHOUSE
FESTIVAL CORTEZ FISHING FESTIVAL
KEY LIME PIE HOMETOWN DESSERTS
507 Pine Ave. Anna Maria, 896-3167
1701 Gulf Drive N. Bradenton Beach, 242-5340
BREAKFAST GINNY’S & JANE E’S
9807 Gulf Drive Anna Maria, 778-3170
BURGER HARRY’S BAR & GRILL
9903 Gulf Drive Anna Maria, 567-5999
CAFÉ CHEESECAKE CUTIE
3324 E Bay Dr Holmes Beach, 779-2253
CANDY STORE THE FUDGE FACTORY
117 Bridge St Bradenton Beach, 281-2501
ASIAN RESTAURANT OCEAN STAR
902 S Bay Blvd Anna Maria, 251-6940
6000 Marina Dr. Unit D Holmes Beach, 778-3000
GERMAN RESTAURANT OLD HAMBURG SCHNITZELHAUS 3246 East Bay Drive Holmes Beach, 778-1320
GOLF COURSE KEY ROYALE GULF CLUB INC. 700 Key Royale Drive Holmes Beach, 778-3055
GROUPER SANDWICH ROD & REEL PIER
875 N Shore Dr Anna Maria, 778-1885
HEALTH FOOD STORE RICHARD’S FOODPORIUM 2601-B Manatee Ave W Bradenton, 749-0892
ICE CREAM SHOP TWO SCOOPS ICE CREAM 101 S. Bay Blvd. Anna Maria, 779-2422
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5904 Marina Drive Holmes Beach, 242-5309
507 Pine Ave. Anna Maria, 896-3167
LIVE THEATER ISLAND PLAYERS
10009 Gulf Drive Anna Maria, 778-5755
MARGARITA WICKED CANTINA
101 7th St. N. Bradenton Beach, 281-2990
MEXICAN RESTAURANT WICKED CANTINA
101 7th St. N. Bradenton Beach, 281-2990
MOST ROMANTIC RESTAURANT BEACH BISTRO 6600 Gulf Drive Holmes Beach, 778-6444
NEW RESTAURANT THE PORCH
9707 Gulf Dr N. Anna Maria, 782-8683 SEE READERS, PAGE 28
For All Your HVAC & Electrical Needs Call Anthony's ...We're in Your Neighborhood!
(941) 778-0100 6X Award Winner Favorite Heat & Air Business
28
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FROM PAGE 27
NIGHT SPOT HARRY’S BAR & GRILL
9903 Gulf Drive Anna Maria, 567-5999
PIER ROD AND REEL PIER
875 North Shore Drive Anna Maria, 778-1885
PIZZA OMA’S PIZZA AND ITALIAN RESTAURANT
201 Gulf Drive North Bradenton Beach, 778-0771
PLACE TO SEE SUNSET SANDBAR RESTAURANT
SPECIALTY GOURMET OCEAN STAR
RESTAURANT (OVERALL) THE WATERFRONT
SUB/SANDWICH CHEESECAKE CUTIE
100 Spring Ave W Anna Maria, 778-0444
111 S Bay Blvd. Anna Maria, 778-1515
SEAFOOD RESTAURANT STARFISH 12306 6th Ave W Cortez, 794-1243
SPECIALTY COCKTAIL DR. OFFICE
5312 Holmes Blvd Holmes Beach, 213-9926
902 S Bay Blvd Anna Maria, 251-6940
3324 E Bay Dr Holmes Beach, 779-2253
TAKEOUT HARRY’S BAR & GRILL
9903 Gulf Drive Anna Maria, 567-5999
JUNE 29, 2022
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JUNE 29, 2022
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Spring tourism surges on AMI Spring tourism numbers are up from last year, with a similar outlook for summer. BY JASON SCHAFFER SUN CORRESPONDENT | jschaffer@amisun.com
ANNA MARIA – Spring tourism was strong on Anna Maria Island, according to Anne Wittine, Director of Quantitative Research for Tampa-based Research Data Services. The Manatee County tourism consultant told the Tourist Development Council at its June 23 meeting at The Center of Anna Maria Island that April 2022 broke records. With 99,900 visitors, tourism rose 19.8% from April 2021. Room nights were at an all-time high at 230,200, up 5.5%, with an
economic impact of $139,186,600, a 35.9% increase from a record-breaking April 2021. “These numbers are partly due to the fact we were so full in March that many people simply weren’t able to come” until April, Wittine said. “Also due to a late Easter, some of those trips were extended to April.” Wittine spoke of visitor origins, saying there was a notable increase in visitors from the Northeast, up 74.9% from April 2021, and from the Midwest, up 81.7% during the same period. The Southeast was up 24.6%, however, Florida visitation was down 31.8%. The average party size was 3.0 people, up from 2.8 last April. Wittine says while that number doesn’t sound like much, it’s a significant increase of 7%. The average length of stay was 5.1 days.
Tourist Development Council seeks applicants The Manatee County Tourist Development Council (TDC) has two openings and is currently accepting applications to fill them. The TDC makes recommendations to the Board of County Commissioners regarding the expenditures of tourist tax revenues. Nine volunteers make up the TDC; terms are for four years. All applicants must be registered voters in Manatee County and should be involved in the tourist industry and have demonstrated an interest in tourist development, however, the applicants must not be subject to the 5% resort tax in Manatee County. Applications are due July 15, and may be found online at mymanatee.org/advisory_boards. For more information, call Leanne Keeling at the Bradenton Area Convention and Visitors Bureau at 941-729-9177, ext. 3944 or email leanne.keeling@ mymanatee.org. The TDC meets on the third Monday of every other month at 9 a.m. at various locations throughout Manatee County.
April 2022 tourist tax collections compared to April 2022
Anna Maria Bradenton Beach Holmes Beach Manatee County Total*
26% 15% 38% 24%
*(Anna Maria Island, Bradenton, Longboat Key, unincorporated Manatee County, Palmetto) Manatee County’s 5% resort tax, or tourist tax, is collected from owners of accommodations rented for six months or less who charge the tax to their renters, in most cases, tourists. About 50% of the tax proceeds are allocated to Bradenton Area Convention and Visitors Bureau tourism marketing efforts, with 20% allocated to beach renourishment. The tax also partially funds tourism-related attractions such as the Bradenton Beach and Anna Maria piers. Amounts shown were collected in April and paid to the Manatee County Tax Collector’s Office in May. Manatee County totals include Anna Maria Island cities, Bradenton, the portion of Longboat Key within Manatee County, unincorporated Manatee County and Palmetto. To anonymously report a rental owner who may not be paying the tax, call 941-741-4809 or visit http://www.taxcollector.com/tdt-evader.cfm. Source: Manatee County Tax Collector
Fiscal year-to-date numbers were equally impressive, with the number of visitors up 21.6% and the economic impact up 35.9% over the previous fiscal year. Airport traffic at Sarasota Bradenton International Airport (SRQ) was also up over 15% from April 2021. Wittine also addressed gas prices and
their impact on tourism. “Considering gas prices and all the things that are going on, we are not hearing from property managers that it’s affecting their summer business,” Wittine said. “For May, we’re still seeing properties reporting increases from last year.” A Traveler Sentiment Study showed that concern about gas prices went from 38.7% last May to 60.6% this year. It also showed that 76.1% of visitors were optimistic about personal health and 53.9% were optimistic about personal finances. Both of these numbers are lower than last May, when 81.9% were optimistic about personal health and 76% were optimistic about personal finances. Concern about the economy almost doubled, but so far has not kept visitors from booking vacations.
Two Island businesses join forces for ultimate beach day Two Island businesses are working together to offer a luxury beach experience for those who want to take their beach day to the next level. BY JASON SCHAFFER SUN CORRESPONDENT | jschaffer@amisun.com
ANNA MARIA ISLAND There is plenty of relaxation and fun to be had throwing down a towel a few feet from the Gulf of Mexico and soaking up the Florida sun, but sometimes, a little pampering feels pretty good too, and that’s exactly what’s being offered by a pair of Island businesses dedicated to elevating the beach experience in a fun and unique way. Beach Suites has been offering luxury beach escapes since Tiffany Adell and Audrey McLoughlin started the company in 2020. The company offers packages that suit just about any taste. A typical package features set-up and clean-up, luxury beach chairs, premium cabanas, a Yeti cooler and ice, beach towels, blankets, ground pillows and even a Bluetooth speaker. “We started this during COVID in 2020 and realized people really wanted to spend time outdoors in the fresh air,” Adell said. “Word of mouth spread and we’ve been doing great ever since. It’s also been great
JASON SCHAFFER | SUN
Graze Street AMI owners Heather and Jason Hernandez at their shop in Holmes Beach. to team up with Graze Street AMI, making us able to add their amazing food to our package options.” Graze Street AMI, located on East Bay Drive in Holmes Beach is a new business started by two talented chefs, Jason Hernandez and his wife, Heather. The couple opened the business three months ago after moving from Las Vegas in 2020. The focus of Graze Street AMI is their food. While they do catering, they don’t do linens and tables like traditional caterers. That’s why their partnership with Beach Suites was perfect for the couple, who now have a brick and mortar shop in Holmes
Beach that not only serves as a home base for their catering, but allows customers to stop by and get high quality food to go prepared by a couple of the best in the business. “Everything worked out so well with Beach Suites, we figured why not just open up a shop so anyone could come here; locals, vacationers and anyone else that wants to come in and grab a sandwich, grab a soup or a dip, go to the beach and be on their way,” Heather Hernandez said. Both Heather and Jason are longtime veterans of the culinary SEE BUSINESSES, PAGE 42
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OUTDOORS
JUNE 29, 2022
Learning to fish: Back to basics Reel Time RUSTY CHINNIS
A
nglers of all stripes like to keep up with state-ofthe-art innovations in the angling world. While that new jig or special fly can perhaps improve their odds at catching fish, it’s important for new anglers to learn and apply the basics, the foundation that successful angling is built on. Fishing means different things to different people. To some, it’s the simple pleasure of being on the water, where catching is optional. To others, it’s serious business and the outcome can make or break a day on the water. For still others, it’s the search for a meal or just an opportunity to share time with friends or family. Whatever fishing means to you, it doesn’t have to be complicated. In fact, I’m convinced that the less complicated it is, the better your chance of success. That might not be apparent when browsing the tackle department at your nearest sporting goods store or tackle shop. There is a plethora of gear lining the shelves meant to lure anglers. Even the basics like line and hooks come in many shapes
and colors, each promising the angler an advantage over the fish. Lures dazzle the eye with a rainbow of colors in mindbending holographic patterns. In truth, experience has taught me that there’s no special magic to finding the right gear for angling success. Instead, concentrating on a few basic time-tested techniques will improve the luck of even the greenest angler. Most important is the essential outfit - rod, reel and line. Pick the best quality tackle you can afford, but not the most expensive available. I’m talking about gear that is solidly made, and able to survive the rigors of saltwater. Whether you’re using spinning tackle, fly tackle or bait casting gear, get an outfit that’s balanced and appropriate for the kind of fishing you’ll be doing. A balanced outfit means that the weight is evenly distributed when held just forward of the reel on the cork of the rod. This isn’t an exact science, but you’ll be able to feel if one component is oversized. An appropriate outfit is one that is up to the task of catching the fish you’re targeting, but no heavier than necessary. An 8- to 10-pound rig is perfect for snook, trout, redfish and other inshore species while a 20- to 40-pound outfit works best for anglers hunting kingfish and cobia along the beach
RUSTY CHINNIS | SUN
The best place to shop for fishing tackle is at your local fishing outfitter. There you have the advantage of local knowledge. or bottom fishing for grouper, snapper or amberjack over offshore ledges and wrecks. The line should also match the outfit you’re using and should fill the spool of the reel. The most common problem I see is reels with too little line. This severely hampers the angler’s casting accuracy and distance.
When it comes to deciding whether to use live bait or artificial lures, I think artificial lures are a better choice, especially for beginning anglers. First and foremost, lures are less of a hassle. Live bait takes time to acquire, must be kept healthy and usually stays close to where it’s cast. Artificial
lures by contrast don’t have to be changed often and aren’t affected by pests like pinfish. At worst it only involves changing the body of a jig occasionally. Using lures will allow you to cover more water, testing various water depths and retrieval speeds. My personal favorite is a jig, and while I now use mostly lead-headed jigs with plastic bodies, the original lead-head jigs with bucktail skirts are still a great choice. My second choice would be a top water plug. These lures require a bit of practice to master “walking the dog,” but allow the angler to cover a lot of water and attract fish with their sound and surface disturbance. Consult your local tackle shop when choosing an outfit. They know the area, have a wealth of experience, and can be trusted to get you off to a good start. While big box stores might seem a good place to shop, you’re not as likely to get the professional advice of a local shop. Do some homework before shopping so you can pick the best rig for the fishing you intend to do. There is no doubt that innovations appear that you want to be aware of, but your overall experience will be enhanced if you master the basics first.
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Where’s Esther? After being satellite tagged on Coquina Beach the morning of June 20, the loggerhead sea turtle known as Esther headed south to the coast of Siesta Key before heading farther out into the Gulf of Mexico. Esther was last tracked off the coast of north Siesta Key, having traveled 45 miles from Anna Maria Island. Esther is one of 15 turtles competing in the Sea Turtle Conservancy's 13th Annual Tour de Turtles event with the title going to the turtle that travels the farthest between their tagging date and Oct. 31, the end of turtle nesting season. Esther is competing to raise awareness of light pollution, and is sponsored by Waterline Villas & Marinas and Mainsail Vacation Rentals.
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TURTLE TIPS During sea turtle season, May 1 – Oct. 31, follow these tips to help turtles: • 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 beach chairs and other 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. To report large holes or other turtle obstacles: • City of Anna Maria code enforcement — 941-708-6130, ext. 139 or ext. 129. • City of Bradenton Beach code enforcement — 941-778-1005, ext. 280. • City of Holmes Beach code enforcement — 941-778-0331, ext. 260. • Level sandcastles before leaving the beach; they can block hatchlings from the water. • Don’t use balloons, wish lanterns or fireworks; they litter the beach and Gulf, and turtles can ingest the debris. • 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). Source: Anna Maria Island Turtle Watch and Shorebird Monitoring
NESTING NEWS Turtle nests laid: 343 (Record: 544 in 2019) False crawls: 323 (Record: 831 in 2010)
Source: Anna Maria Island Turtle Watch and Shorebird Monitoring
Beaches brimming with nests Anna Maria Island beaches have hundreds of sea turtle nests incubating this summer, all marked with yellow stakes and pink tape to warn beachgoers to steer clear of them. Most nests hatch at night, but occasionally, hatchlings emerge in the daylight. If you see a nest hatch, stay well away from hatchlings as they head for the Gulf of Mexico.
CINDY LANE | SUN
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Our extraordinary dogs transform lives. Beyond the Dark invites you to experience this transformation and connect with our mission. You’ll engage your senses while immersing into the challenges of people with vision loss and veterans with disabilities. You’ll meet graduates of our programs and hear their triumphant stories. You’ll witness our highly trained guide dogs and service dogs at work, and see the powerful difference they make. And you’ll come away with a greater connection to the human-dog teams who journey beyond the dark.
GuideDogs.org/Dark
JUNE 29, 2022
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FIREWORKS: Celebrate safely FROM PAGE 1
and both adult and hatchling turtles can easily be disoriented by light, sometimes leading to their deaths. Here is how officials in the three Island cities approach fireworks:
ANNA MARIA
The city of Anna Maria is patrolled by the Manatee County Sheriff’s Office. The department refers to Manatee County Ordinance 04-27, which covers fireworks rules and laws at length and also echoes other area laws that prohibit individuals from lighting any shell that flies in the air or explodes above the ground without a permit. A spokesman did not directly address whether the department recognizes the state bill that legalizes fireworks on July 4. “Our response to fireworks enforcement has not changed. When deputies respond to complaints involving fireworks, their goal is to obtain voluntary compliance through education,” said Manatee County Sheriff’s Office Public Information Officer Randy Warren.
BRADENTON BEACH
Bradenton Beach police will be enforcing a local ordinance that does not
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The sound of fireworks can cause shorebirds such as this black skimmer to abandon their nests. allow fireworks on the three state-designated holidays, and will confiscate fireworks from anyone caught setting them off. It’s also possible to be issued a citation, even on July 4. “The use of fireworks is illegal and they will be confiscated. Depending on
the severity of the amount someone possesses, they can also be fined,” Bradenton Beach Police Lt. Lenard Diaz said. “Nothing that projects up is allowed.”
to enforcement of local laws regarding fireworks in the city. Police Chief Bill Tokajer said most private fireworks displays in the city are illegal and there will be consequences for violators. “Exploding, launching and projectile fireworks are illegal,” Tokajer said. “We will be handling each report of fireworks depending on what the firework is and how it’s being handled. The fine is up to $500. Also, be sure to closely supervise children while using legal fireworks” such as sparklers. Officials know some will choose to ignore the law and take their chances. Anyone choosing to do so is strongly encouraged to avoid densely populated areas and beaches. After a hiatus due to COVID-19, the Sandbar Restaurant in Anna Maria has announced the return of Fourth of July weekend fireworks. The fireworks show begins at 9 p.m. on Saturday, July 2 at the Sandbar, and can be viewed free by the public. The VIP event at the restaurant is sold out.
HOLMES BEACH
Holmes Beach has a similar approach
COMMISSIONER: Accused of theft
SHANNON: Sentenced to jail time
FROM PAGE 1
FROM PAGE 1
she contacted Kaleta, who said he had not given permission for the signs to be placed on his property. Whitmore said she removed the signs and took them to the Holmes Beach Police Department, where she made a statement to officers noting that the city’s sign ordinance only allows for political signs to be placed in the city during the 45 days leading up to an election. According to the city’s sign ordinance, candidates cannot start placing their election signs until Saturday, Sept. 24. Police Chief Bill Tokajer said that the signs were turned over to the city’s code compliance division to be collected by Bearden. Once the news of the sign removal came out, Bearden publicly demanded that Whitmore be arrested and charged with theft. Speaking to The Sun, Tokajer said that Whitmore was not being charged or fined in relation to the sign removal. However, he issued a warning to the community that election signs are to be placed on private property only with the property owner’s permission and that signs can only be legally moved or removed by the property owner, police or code compliance officers. While Whitmore joked about turning
After Shannon’s vehicle was identified by Holmes Beach police officers using the city’s license plate reader camera system, officers attempted to locate her. After a warrant was issued for her arrest, her attorney contacted officers, giving them a general location of her vehicle on Feb. 11. Shannon turned herself in to Bradenton police officers later the same day. During the June 20 hearing, Dakin’s husband, one of her four sons and Shannon’s psychiatrist all testified, along with others. Shannon’s attorney, Ronald Filipkowski, asked for Arend to take Shannon’s mental health into consideration when sentencing and reduce the sentence from a mandatory minimum of four years to supervised probation with community service. Prosecutors asked for a penalty of 15 years in prison. “There’s no winners here,” Filipkowski said. “This will affect her forever.” Shannon spoke in her defense, saying that she’s sorry for what happened and that there was nothing she could have done to
KRISTIN SWAIN | SUN
Manatee County Commissioner Carol Whitmore held a press conference on June 22 outside Holmes Beach City Hall to discuss the accusations of election sign theft being levied against her by political opponent Jason Bearden. herself in to police during her press conference, she adamantly maintained that “Carol Whitmore did nothing wrong.” Ultimately, the contest between Whitmore and Bearden will be decided by voters during the Nov. 8 general election. The last day to register to vote in the general election is Oct. 11.
help Dakin after the accident. “I am not okay,” she said. “I’m not okay with any of this. It never should’ve happened.” Shannon went on to pledge to advocate for safer streets for motorists and pedestrians and asked Arend and Dakin’s family to consider the toll the accident has had on her mental health and what a prison sentence would do to her future. “I didn’t see her,” Shannon said. “I didn’t have time to brake.” She went on to say that she felt she went into some type of fugue state when she left the scene of the accident and was unconscious for several hours afterwards. “It’s been a difficult afternoon for everyone here,” Arend said. “Had you stayed at the scene, I wouldn’t be involved.” He said that with Shannon’s history of driving under the influence that he didn’t feel the accident resulting in Dakin’s death was an isolated incident but that he felt a penalty of 15 years was too steep. Shannon remains in the custody of the Manatee County Sheriff ’s Department.
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JUNE 29, 2022
Tips for parking in Anna Maria • Always doublecheck for signs before parking. Many areas indicate parking is allowed (or not allowed) between signs. Look for both signs. • Where parking is allowed, all four tires must be completely off the pavement, including sidewalks. • Where parking is allowed, all vehicles must face the same direction as the flow of traffic on that side of the street. • When unloading or loading vehicles, a licensed adult must stay with the vehicle at all times. • Never park across the end of a driveway, even if it is your own property or a property which you are renting. • Parallel parking
JOE HENDRICKS | SUN
When parking in Anna Maria, make sure all tires are off the pavement. is the default parking method. Angled parking is only allowed where signage or painted lines indicate. • Never park in a handicapped space without a valid handicapped license plate or placard. • Where parking is allowed, only one vehicle is allowed per parking space.
• Don’t park within 30 feet of a stop sign, within 20 feet of an intersection or within 15 feet of a fire hydrant. • Don’t double park. • Don’t block driveways. A parking citation in Anna Maria carries a $50 fine and can be issued every two hours if the violation continues.
2017,2019,2020,2021,2022
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COVID-19 high in Manatee County June 20 Cases 281 % Positivity 22.4% Deaths < 10 % Eligible population vaccinated 72.5% New hospital admissions 48
June 27 Cases 284 % Positivity 24.07% Deaths < 10 % Eligible population vaccinated 72.5% New hospital admissions 52
Manatee County community level of COVID-19 transmission Source: Centers for Disease Control
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THE SUN
B
REAL ESTATE
JUNE 29, 2022
Homebuyers getting hit every day
uying a home was once a happy time for families. Homes were plentiful to choose from, and imagining your grandmother’s credenza in the dining room and the Christmas tree in the living room front window made for happy thoughts. Now, however, looking for a home is a stressful event if you’re just the average potential homeowner. Inventory is low, prices are high, and, of course, now we have to stress even more about the increase in mortgage interest rates. As of June 23, according to Forbes, the average rate for a 30-year, fixed-rate mortgage was 5.89% and the average rate for a 15-year, fixed-rate mortgage was 5.13%. These numbers are slightly down. However, typically they are going up, forcing buyers to make some serious decisions, especially if they may not qualify for the additional monthly cost of the increased financing rate.
Castles in the Sand LOUISE BOLGER They can come up with more cash and apply for a smaller loan - usually not a good option for marginal buyers. They can lower their criteria for what kind of home they want at a lower price point and hope it exists. Or they can drop out of the market completely with the hope things improve in a year or whenever. Unfortunately, this is an option that is happening more and more as the interest rates and the selling prices keep going up. New home buyers are getting hit even harder. Buyers who are in contract for new construction but haven’t closed are facing mortgage interest rates that are getting close
to doubling since they agreed to purchase the home. In addition, they are also confronting construction that is taking longer than usual due to supply-chain and labor constraints. Some new home buyers also have to make difficult decisions; how long can they hold out while they’re watching mortgage interest rates go up and the construction on their new home crawling along? Time now for the May Manatee County sales statistics published by the Realtor Association of Sarasota and Manatee. Single-family homes closed 7.3% less than last May. The median sale price was $550,000, 37.5% higher, and the average sale price was $715,504, 26.1% higher. The median time to contract has not changed at six days but the month’s supply of available properties has changed to 1.2 months availability. The good news is new listings are up 17.2%. Condo sales were up 6.3% over last year. The median sale price was
$369,900, 51.9% higher, and the average sale price was $441,674, 41.5% higher. The median time to contract is six days, the same as single family, and the month’s supply of available properties is one month. The good news for condos is also that new listings are up 15.5%. A combination of higher interest rates and our normal summer slowdown is resulting in a fewer number of sales and more available properties on the market. However, prices, both average and median, remain very strong, according to the president of the Realtor Association, and are still increasing. Making the biggest investment of your life has always been a stressful event, but it was also mixed with pleasant thoughts of the future and paint colors. Now, however, for the average buyer who needs to watch their dollars, the pleasant thoughts are gone, and they’re left with the stress. My heart goes out to them.
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JUNE 29, 2022
HUNTERS POINT: Dock permit challenge begins FROM PAGE 3
examined, Gobuty said the Hunters Point docks are designed to accommodate boats no longer than 25 feet, while the marina accommodates vessels as long as 35-38 feet. It was also noted the marina and storage facility accommodates approximately 350 vessels. On June 15, Captain Dane Fleming was called as a witness for Cortez Road Investments. Fleming said he navigated and measured the canal on two different occasions prior to the hearing. Fleming expressed his opinion that the canal is wide enough to accommodate the Hunters Point docks without hindering or impeding navigation. Fleming called into question a video previously provided on behalf of the marina owners. He noted the captain of the boat from which that video footage was filmed was navigating on the wrong side of the canal while filming. Fleming said this resulted in camera angles that “skewed” the marina’s claims regarding visibility and the canal being too narrow for safe navigation in some areas. Fleming noted there are some areas that are too narrow for two boats to pass side-by-side, but one boat can wait in the wider area until the other boat navigates the narrower area. Stantec ecologist and permit expert Elizabeth Eardley helped Gobuty’s development
team acquire the environmental resource permit granted in 2021. While testifying Wednesday, Eardley said the state permitting process did not require a navigational impact study because the canal is privately owned. She also testified the Hunters Point docks are designed to allow adequate remaining navigational space in the canal and are not expected to impede navigation. When the hearing continues, SWFWMD attorneys will present their arguments regarding the environmental resource permit being properly issued. After that, the Cortez Village Marina attorneys will present their arguments.
OWNERSHIP AND RIPARIAN RIGHTS
Even through riparian rights will not be determined during the administrative hearing, testimony was still given pertaining to the history and ownership of the canal. When testifying on behalf of Cortez Road Investments, attorney and property title expert Adron Walker said the man-made Hunters Point canal did not exist when Florida was granted statehood in 1845, thus the canal’s submerged lands are privately owned and are not state-owned submerged sovereign lands. Walker also testified that the man-made canal did not exist when the property now known as Hunters Point was first platted in 1921.
During Walker’s testimony, property cards and images from the Manatee County Property Appraiser’s Office were displayed. One property card shows the Hunters Point-owned canal that extends from 127th Street West to the western boundary of the Cortez Village Marina property. Walker said he could not locate any easements or usage agreements ever granted to the marina or any other potentially impacted upland property owners regarding their right to use the privately-owned Hunters Point canal. Walker referenced another property card which revealed the portion of the canal located directly in front of the marina is not owned by the marina but is owned by the Cipriani family trust that previously owned the Hunters Point property and canal. Walker also said he’s not aware of any use agreement between the marina and the Cipriani family trust for the use of that portion of the canal. Walker said the only existing right the marina and the other upland owners might have would be a prescriptive easement granted by a court. Walker said a declaration of that nature usually requires an existing historic use of at least 20 years. Martin noted the original petition for hearing states the Cortez Village Marina has operated in its current configuration since 2008. The petition also notes that site
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has been used as a marina since at least the 1990s.
RECENT LAWSUITS
In late May, Cortez Road Investments filed a civil lawsuit in the 12th Judicial Circuit Court in Manatee County seeking to prohibit the marina and its clients from using the Hunters Point canal. The lawsuit seeks a permanent injunction that would prohibit Cortez Village Marina clients and employees from using the privately owned Hunters Point canal. The lawsuit notes the canal was constructed in the 1950s. In early June, Cortez Road Investments filed a separate lawsuit against upland canalside property owners Jonathan and Sheila Graham, Mark Ibasfalean, Jacquelyn Shepard, Mary Norman, Timothy Fitzpatrick and Wendy and George Kokolis. That lawsuit complaint states those property owners have constructed and are maintaining docks, lifts and other structures on and in the Hunters Point canal without the property owner’s authorization. The complaint notes that the Cortez Village Marina petition contends, in part, that the existing docks that extend into the Hunters Point canal could impede navigation for the marina customers. “This has left plaintiff (Gobuty/Hunters Point) with no choice but to file this suit against defendants,” according to the lawsuit complaint.
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THE SUN
Parking changes scheduled for final vote BY KRISTIN SWAIN SUN STAFF WRITER | kswain@amisun.com
HOLMES BEACH – Commissioners are scheduled to decide this week whether to require motorists to park with two or four tires off the road. The final discussion, public hearing and vote are set for Tuesday, June 28 during the regular commission meeting. The first reading of the ordinance passed with a 3-2 vote with Commissioners Jayne Christenson and Kim Rash dissenting. If the proposed parking changes pass a second and final vote, anyone park-
ing on the side of the road in Holmes Beach will be required to park with all four tires off the road instead of the two that are currently required. The change would apply to all vehicle types including low-speed vehicles and golf carts. Currently, Holmes Beach is the only Anna Maria Island city to allow for two tires to be on the road when parked on the street. While city commission meetings are available to view through Zoom, to comment, members of the public are required to be present during the meeting at city hall, 5801 Marina Drive.
JUNE 29, 2022
JUNE 29, 2022
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JUNE 29, 2022
VACATION
365 You’re closer to home than you think. Check out Lakewood Ranch online or in person, and you’ll see why it’s the best-selling community in the country for all ages. You won’t want to leave!
SHOPPING, DINING, ARTS & ENTERTAINMENT | PARKS & TR AILS | 20+ VILL AGES TO CHOOSE FROM SOCIA L AND SPORTS CLUBS | GOLF & R ACQUET SPORTS | THRIVING BUSINESS COMMUNIT Y TOP-R ATED SCHOOLS | NAMED BEST COMMUNIT Y LIFEST YLE PROGR AM *
NEW HOMES FROM THE $400S TO OVER $1 MILLION * *
*2022 Gold Award - National Association of Home Builders **Prices subject to change without notice. © 2022 Lakewood Ranch
20220510_LWR_VACA_365_WAVE_AD_AMI_10X13_mf3.indd 1
.com 5/18/22 8:59 AM
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Perico Bay Club—As Good As It Gets!!
Business As Usual…..Just A Li le Differently. If you’re looking to buy or sell in Perico Bay Club, or know someone who is, please give me a call!
JASON SCHAFFER | SUN
Bridge crash
Give me a call today if you yo ou u’re ’ree lookin looking ngg to Buyy or Sell on Anna Maria Maria Island Mari Islaand or the surrounding ounding ngg aarea! rea eaaa!!
Lynn Zemmer 941 4141 1-730 3030 0-1294 9 94
941.209.1542 I Lynn@Edgewaterami.com 941.730.1294 | Lynn@Edgewaterami.com www.EdgewaterRealEstateInc.com www.EdgewaterRealEstateInc.com 106 Bridge Street, Bradenton Beach, FL 34217
FREE
Manatee County EMS responded to a motorcyclist who was struck by a car on the Cortez Bridge on Friday. According to Bradenton Beach police, the man's motorcycle, traveling east on the Cortez Bridge, came to a stop and was hit from behind by a female driving a late model sedan. The driver was not found to be under the influence, but was cited for careless driving. The man on the motorcycle suffered a broken arm and a separated shoulder.
601 GULF DR N UNIT 112, BRADENTON BEACH
HOME DELIVERY
Lindsey Leech Strickland Realtor®
Call for Details
778-3986
941.737.3491 lindseykleech@gmail.com LindseyLeechFL
SOLD FOR $780,000
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JUNE 29, 2022
SUBMITTED | JAYNE CHRISTENSON
Love in Las Vegas Even the King himself loves The Sun! Holmes Beach Commissioner Jayne Christenson and her husband Joe took The Sun along to the Graceland Wedding Chapel in Las Vegas where they celebrated their 25th wedding anniversary by renewing their vows.
BUSINESSES: Join forces for ultimate beach day FROM PAGE 29
and restaurant industry, working at some of the finest restaurants in America and consulting with some of the country’s biggest food brands and restaurants. A visit to Graze Street AMI will not disappoint, with quality ingredients and freshness being priority number one.
Beach Suites can be reached at www.beachsuitesami.com or by calling 941- 926-6749. 24 hours advance notice is required for booking to assure the highest standard of quality in the beach experience. Graze Street AMI is located at 3218 E. Bay Drive in Holmes Beach, or call 941-896-6320.
SUBMITTED
Beach Suites offers luxurious relaxation and fun, elevating the beach day with a wide variety of amenities and experiences.
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Key Royale summer golf begins JUNE 13 - MODIFIED STAPLEFORD
JUNE 20 - MODIFIED STAPLEFORD
First Place - Tom Nelson with a score of +3 Second Place - Bill DiMenna and Jim Hill with a score of +2
First Place - Art McMillan with a score of +4 Second Place - (tie) Mike Clements, Cliff Lanning, Fred Miller and Dave Richardson with a score of +3
JUNE 14 - LOW NET SCORE Flight A Helen Pollock Sue Wheeler Debbie Milder Flight B Terry Westby Anne Klein
34 35 35 34 41
JUNE 16 - SCRAMBLE
First Place Team - with a score of 28, 4 under par, Cliff Lanning, Debbie and Dave Richardson and Kurt Snouffer
JUNE 21- LOW NET SCORE Flight A Sue Wheeler Helen Pollock
Flight B Terry Westby 32 Marilyn Niewijk 38 Helen Pollock had a birdie on Hole #2
JUNE 23 - SHAMBLE
First Place - Art McMillan, Diane Miller, Scott Mitchell and Kent Newbold with a score of 45
The trusted team in luxury real estate. SOLD PROPERTIES ON ANNA MARIA ISLAND
SOLD | 214 Coconut Ave | Anna Maria | $7,285,000
SOLD | 311 62nd St | Holmes Beach | $2,316,450
SOLD | 6408 Gulf Dr #8 | Holmes Beach | $2,600,000
SOLD | 112 Mangrove Ave | Anna Maria | $3,550,000
Contact Hannah & George today to discuss your real estate goals. 20-YEAR ISLAND RESIDENTS & REALTORS ®
Hannah Hillyard REALTOR®
941.744.7358
George Myers REALTOR®
941.224.6021
33 35
6000 Marina Drive 113 | Holmes Beach, FL 34217
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SPORTS
JUNE 29, 2022
Solid Rock, Progressive start off summer hot Inn had powerful shooting and dominating defending on both sides of the soccer ball. Olivia Wyatt scored three goals for Blalock Walters, while Campbell Collins and Paul ten Haaf each had single scoring strikes for the Bridgetender Inn team. Wyatt’s scoring was nearly matched by teammate Gavin Angel with two goals. Matching in goals, Bridgetender Inn’s Colton Cook also put two into the indoor soccer net. The four games of week three start Tuesday, June 28 at 6 p.m., marking the start of the second half of play in week four.
BY MONICA SIMPSON SPECIAL TO THE SUN
ANNA MARIA – Youth indoor soccer on the first night of summer brought the heat on The Center’s indoor pitch. Thanks to the hot leg of Progressive Cabinetry’s Ethan Angel and teammates Barret Raina and Alonso Valle, the team handily defeated Moss Builder. Raina and Valle each had a single goal in the game, contributing to the 5-0 final score. Progressive’s win puts them at the top of the rankings as the only undefeated team in the U13 league. The U9 league leader, Solid Rock Construction, also goes into week three of indoor action with a 2-0 record. Solid Rock shut out their opponent Ugly Grouper last Tuesday night in U9 play, putting in seven goals in the game. Matthew Darak scored a solo goal and had two assists. Darak’s sister, Mckenna, had a hat trick, adding three goals to the score. Roadman brothers Isaac and Eli contributed to Solid Rock’s 7-0 win with three total goals. E. Roadman made two shots and Isaac added to
MONICA SIMPSON | SUN
Moss Builders’ Callin Westfall handles the ball with the support of teammates Elisabeth ten Haaf and Riley Karecki during last Tuesday night’s indoor soccer action against Progressive Cabinetry. his stats with an assist. The two undefeated teams match up against worthy opponents in week three. Solid Rock plays Bridgetender Inn and Progressive Cabinetry goes up against Shady Lady. Bridgetender Inn narrowly lost to team Blalock Walters last week with the final score 5-4. Shady Lady lost their
game against Freckled Fin with the score 7-5. In the final game of the night last Tuesday, Shady Lady’s scoring came from Ava Mason with two goals and Alex Monserrate with a hat trick. Making the teamwork happen, Jesse Zaccagnino is recorded to have an assist for Shady Lady in the close game.
For the win, Freckled Fin’s Chandler McRae heated up the field with four of his shots making it past the Shady Lady defense. Tucker McRae had a goal of his own for Freckled Fin. Teammate David Zupa scored two goals in the last game of week two play. The U9 match-up of Blalock Walters against Bridgetender
SUN SCOREBOARD TUESDAY, JUNE 21 YOUTH INDOOR SOCCER WEEK TWO U9
Solid Rock Construction (2-0-0) 7 Ugly Grouper (1-1-0) 0 Blalock Walters (1-1-0) Bridgetender Inn (0-2-0)
5 4
U13
Progressive Cabinetry (2-0-0) 5 Moss Builders (0-2-0) 0 Freckled Fin (1-1-0) Shady Lady (1-1-0)
7 5
JUNE 29, 2022
FUN IN THE SUN
Across 1 Assurance on some menus 6 Current event 10 Crawled? 14 Have the floor 15 Outback option 16 Head light 17 *It's hard to put down 19 Like much cheese 20 Middle of Cannes? 21 Lend, informally, as money 22 Think the world of 23 *Bond, for one 26 Clothing buyer's pleased words 29 Also-ran's terse summary 30 Buzzer beater? 31 Low point 33 "Awesome, dude!" 36 *One of about 50 orbiting the Milky Way 40 Saddlebag carrier Answers to 06-22-22 Crossword Puzzle.
41 Roof features 42 Qwirkle piece 43 Colonial diplomat Silas 45 Julia of "Ozark" 47 *Put the pedal to the metal 50 Toyota since 1982 51 31-Down competitor 52 Anthem author 55 NYC theater award 56 Airport annoyance, and a literal hint to the answers to starred clues 59 Slips on 60 Appearance 61 Bagel flavor 62 Genesis grandson 63 Shaw's "__ and the Man" 64 Units of power Down 1 "Don't think so" 2 Algerian coastal city
3 Time and Money, briefly 4 Abbr. in some vineyard names 5 Prepare 6 Catcher's interference is charged as one in baseball 7 Italy's "Supreme Poet" 8 Titled rapper 9 "__ Blues": "White Album" track 10 Nuances 11 Old West traveling group 12 Warn 13 Rock's Depeche __ 18 Lines at the checkout counter? 22 Greek marketplace 23 Something to build on 24 Oceans' motions 25 Sacha Baron Cohen persona 26 Rae of "Insecure" 27 Christmas poem opener 28 Inaugural Rock and Roll Hall of Fame inductee 31 Skin care brand 32 Bolted down 34 Bridge toll unit 35 One skilled at giving hints? 37 "Rescue Me" actor Denis 38 Road division
39 USPS deliveries 44 Way out 45 Short dip? 46 "As I was saying ... " 47 Cameroon neighbor 48 __ pole
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49 Secluded locations 50 Airport ID, e.g. 52 Heal, in a way 53 Showbiz "grand slam" acronym 54 Itches
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56 Morning TV fare, initially 57 Word before France or Jordan 58 CNN anchor Cabrera
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CLASSIFIED
ANNOUNCEMENTS BEACH YOGA ON Wednesdays, Saturdays & Sundays at 8:30am at the end of Pine Ave by the Sandbar Restaurant by donation. Classes on Tuesdays & Fridays at 8:30 at 100 Broadway St. on LBK. www.thriveyogafit.com THE BEST VOLUNTEER position on the island. The AMI Historical Museum needs docents and bread makers. Call Kathy Primeau at 989-560-6381. ROSER FOOD BANK needs donations of cash and non-perishable food, PAPER & PERSONAL HYGIENE PRODUCTS. Donations boxes are located at the Church, Moose Club, and Walgreen’s. TINGLEY LIBRARY IN BRADENTON BEACH is looking for volunteers. Fun and friendly atmosphere. Morning and afternoon shifts. If interested, please contact library clerk Eveann Adams at 941-779-1208, between 10-3, Tues. -Fri. only.
COMMERCIAL SALES, RENT & LEASE HAVE YOU BEEN thinking of selling? We NEED properties to List for SALE!!! Duplexes, multi family, small resorts? Call BIG Alan Galletto of Island Real Estate to get it SOLD 941-232-2216
CLEANING SERVICE TOTAL HOME SERVICES CLEANING : Residential, Commercial, Rentals, VRBO. Professional and Reliable. Call 941-7564570 or 941-565-3931
EMPLOYMENT ISLAND OCEAN STAR RESTAURANT located at the end of Anna Maria Island with water front seating. We are looking for Sushi Chefs, Kitchen Chefs, Kitchen helpers, hosts or hostesses, servers, bar tenders, etc. to join our team. For kitchen chef, starting pay is $15.25 per hour. Please call Chi at 941-685-7536 or 941-251-6940 or email Chi at IslandStar902@gmail. com
Call us today! 941-778-3986
The award-winning ANNA MARIA ISLAND SUN, a weekly newspaper on Florida’s Gulf Coast, is looking for a freelance reporter/photographer to cover events on this tourism-driven island. The ideal candidate will have reporting and photography experience at a community newspaper and have some experience writing for a news website. Local residents or those with previous local knowledge and willing to relocate here a plus. Resumes and cover letters may be mailed to The Anna Maria Island Sun, P.O Box 1189, Anna Maria, FL 34216, Attention: Mike Field, publisher.
API’S DRYWALL REPAIR 15+ years experience. Free estimates. No job too small. Love to help you. Call 941-524-8067.
FISHING CHARTERS
LANDSCAPING & LAWN CARE
CAPT. MAC GREGORY Fishing Charters. Full Day, Half Day, Night, Inshore & Near Shore. 941-809-5783 U.S.C.G. Certified/Insured
FOR SALE TOPPER FOR F150 Long bed. $100 or Best Offer. Call 941-705-7560.
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 # CBC 1261150. Call Mike Kern 941-7781115 JSAN CORPORATION Renovations Construction & Handyman Services 941-243-0995 Lic# CRC1332505 jsancorporation@gmail. com Flooring, Drywall, Painting, Repairs, Kitchen and Bathrooms, Trim & Doors. Free Estimates. Credit Cards Accepted.
ISLE TILE specializing in Custom Bath/Shower & Backsplash installation. Pressure washing available. Call 941-302-8759 isletileservices.com
JUNE 29, 2022
PAINTING & WALLCOVERING
REAL ESTATE HOMES & CONDOS FOR SALE
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
Have you been thinking of selling? We NEED properties to List for SALE!!! GULF FRONT, CANAL FRONT, BAY FRONT CONDOS or HOMES ASK for BIG Alan Galletto of Island Real Estate to get it SOLD 941-232-2216
HOME SERVICES CONCRETE FUSION, CRACK REPAIR sidewalks/ driveways. Why fix 95% of concrete when only 5% bad? Number 1 in concrete repair. Insured. Free estimate. Call Bobby 941-374-7670.
R. GAROFALO’S Interlocking brick pavers, driveways, patios, pool decks. Free estimates. Licensed & Insured. Call Rafael 941-778-4823 or Veronik 941-526-7941 ISLAND RESIDENT. TREE/ BUSH Trimming, removal. Sweeping, blowing, weeding. Weekly, bi-monthly or monthly schedule. Pressure washing. Call Bill Witaszek 941-307-9315. SHELL DRIVEWAYS & LANDSCAPE. Specializing in Old Florida Seashell driveways and scapes. Also Rock, Mulch, & Soil. Free estimates. Call Shark Mark 941-301-6067
LOST & FOUND LOST PRESCRIPTION SUNGLASSES in black case between Gulf Watch and Beach House Restaurant. Please call 847-563-8365.
MASSAGE MASSAGE BY VINNIE Swedish Deep Tissue And More By Appointment Only Call 773-383-0463 Vinnie LMT,CMCE
MOVING & STORAGE MARTIN’S MOVING YOUR Island movers! Offering dependable, competitive rates. No hidden costs. 941-809-5777.
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“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
DONALD PERKINS ABRACADABRA PAINTING LLC fully insured. 30 years experience. Many Island references. Call 941-705-7096
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
PRESSURE WASHING & WINDOWS TOTAL HOME SERVICES CLEANING : Residential, Commercial, Construction, Vacation, VRBO Rentals . Also available Pressure Washing, Roof Cleaning, Paver Sealing and Windows. Call 941565-3931.
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 30 years. Proven track record brings you results! 941-725-1589 REALTOR FOR HIRE. BUYING OR SELLING on AMI? 17 years experience & USAF Veteran. Call Kelly Gitt Keller Williams Realty today 941-799-9299.
RENTALS: ANNUAL ANNUAL RENTALS WANTED! We have well qualified tenants for beach and mainland annual rentals, Full management or Finders fee. Call today for details. Ask for Paige DUNCAN REAL ESTATE 513-3821992. ANNUAL RENTAL IN GATED HARBOUR LANDINGS, 4118 Osprey Harbour Loop, less than 1 mile from gulf sand just across Cortez causeway. 1900+ sq ft 2BR/2BA, screened lanai upper level, with elevator. Full non-conforming 1900 sq ft ground level, currently used with 2 additional BRs, finished storage, with split air units, 3 cars in garage. Rented as furnished. Total living space is more than 3,500 sq ft. New upscale appliances. Well maintained, white cabinets, black granite countertops. Photos on line from previous sale do not show latest construction updates. Call Nelson at 303-9684321 to get more info. Requires background check, deposit. Offered at $4,000 per month, minimum 12 month lease
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
SEASONAL RENTAL in PALMA SOLA. 3BR/2BA weekly or monthly rates. Contact Barb Grace 941201-2190 ANNA MARIA ISLAND CONDO SUMMER SPECIAL Large pool, beach access, furnished, WIFI, 1BR 6 month lease. $1900/mo. All utilities included. redekercondosonami.com Tim 941-704-7525 LUXURIOUS ANNA MARIA ISLAND CONDO for rent. Upgraded granite/ stainless kitchen. Incredible water views through floor length windows. Waterfront patio. Luxury furnishing. 2BR/2BA. King beds. Pool, tennis, walk to beach. Private carport. Monthly rental July to December. Owner/renter. Flexible terms. 570-239-0431 email marketreps@aol.com
TRANSPORTATION AMI TAXI credit cards, cash, venmo accepted. Airport: Tampa $105, Sarasota $50, St. Pete/Clearwater $105, Orlando $220. Call 941-447-8372 or 941-4478376. amitaxi4u@gmail. com, www.amitaxi.com ANYTIME TRANSPORTATION to all Airports, Casino, etc. Tampa/St. Pete $80. Sarasota $40. Pets welcome. Very dependable. Reasonable rates. Contact Jeanne. 941-779-5095
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BUSINESS & SERVICE DIRECTORY HOME IMPROVEMENT
HOME IMPROVEMENT
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Call today to place your ad: 941-778-3986 PAINTING
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the Team Duncan Difference! Local-Area Expertise Outstanding Customer C t S Service i Experienced Professionals Proven Performance
Darcie Duncan Broker - Owner
Cindy Jones Sales Associate
Michelle Laade Sales Associate
April Green Martha Jones Robel Sales Associate Sales Associate
Robyn Hawk Paige Rogers Joey Hutchinson Katie Self Sales Associate Sales Associate Sales Associate Sales Associate
Nancy Howle Sales Associate
William Romberger Sales Associate
Lindsey Leech Strickland Mary Anne Muniz Sales Associate Sales Associate
Ben Bryant Sales Associate
Andrea Miller Sales Associate
Home & Condominium Sales • Investment Properties • Vacation Rentals
310 Pine Avenue Anna Maria, FL 34216
TeamDuncan.com
941.779.0304