Anna Maria Island Sun April 15, 2020

- Named Best Florida Newspaper In Its Class -

VOL 20 No. 27

April 15, 2020

Peace out “Pass on peace, not COVID-19” is the inspirational message written in the sands of Anna Maria Island by local artist Jim Shipley, and people all over the world have seen it, thanks to Patricia Filomeno, owner of Ink Graphics Media and Florida Furniture Rental.

On Saturday, March 28, Filomeno and her husband, Rainer Scheer, went for a walk on Anna Maria Island and spotted the artist working on a sand installation with the mission to share peace and love in the midst of the coronavirus pandemic.

“We decided to bring our drone and film it,” she said. “We have over 82,000 views already. I am so proud that our video served as inspiration for thousands of people.”

“This is totally awesome!” Shipley said. “Doing just what I wanted to do, the message is getting out there. It’s all about peace. Thanks for passing it on, that’s what it’s all about.”

SUBMITTED | PATRICIA FILOMENA

Patricia Filomena with Jim Shipley’s sand sculpture.

SUBMITTED | MARK TAYLOR

Artist Jim Shipley made these sand sculptures in Holmes Beach last week.

County boat ramps reopened Manatee County Public Safety Director Jake Saur previously ordered the county boat ramps closed as of March 26.

BY JOE HENDRICKS SUN CORRESPONDENT | jhendricks@amisun.com

MANATEE COUNTY – Manatee County’s public boat ramps are open again.

On Friday, April 10, Manatee County commissioners voted 4-3 in favor of reopening the public boat ramps.

Friday’s decision overturned the decision Manatee County Public Safety

INSIDE NEWS 4 CALENDAR 6 WEDDING 9-10 OUTDOORS 18 REAL ESTATE 20 CROSSWORD 28 CLASSIFIEDS 29

Director Jake Saur previously made to close the public boat ramps as of Thursday, March 26. Saur made that decision in response to the coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic.

During Friday’s emergency county commission meeting, Commissioner Priscilla Trace made the motion to reopen the county boat ramps which include the Coquina North and Coquina South boat ramps in Bradenton Beach and the Kingfish boat ramp in Holmes Beach.

Commissioners Vanessa Baugh, Reggie Bellamy and Misty Servia supported Trace’s motion. Commissioners Betsy Benac, Steve Jonsson and Carol

Are we protecting the public’s health by closing the boat ramps or are we creating a bigger problem?”

Misty Servia, Manatee County Commissioner Whitmore opposed it.

Trace proposed that the boat ramps reopen on Sunday, but it was decided they would open on Monday so county staff didn’t have to work on Easter Sunday.

A county press release issued after Friday’s meeting stated the boat ramps

would reopen at 3 p.m. on Monday, April 13. The boat ramps are now open again to all users, including recreational boaters, charter fishermen and commercial fishermen.

SEE BOAT RAMPS, PAGE 22

BRINGING ‘ JOY DURING

PIER LEASE bid proposals

CHALLENGING TIMES. 4

NEW parking measures in Holmes

Anna Maria Island, Florida

submitted 3

Beach 11 The Island’s award-winning weekly newspaper www.amisun.com

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APRIL 15, 2020

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More storms predicted The annual pre-hurricane season prediction from Colorado State University scientists in Ft. Collins calls for a greater-thanusual possibility for cyclonic action in the Atlantic and Gulf of Mexico.

BY TOM VAUGHT

SUN CONTRIBUTOR If storm forecasters are accurate, 2020 might not be remembered fondly.

As the world deals with a deadly virus raging around our planet, storm forecasters are predicting the likelihood of more than normal tropical storms and hurricanes this season.

The prediction, written by meteorologists Philip J. Klotzbach, Michael M. Bell and Jhordanne Jones, said, “We estimate that 2020 will have about eight hurricanes (average is 6.4), 16 named storms (average is 12.1), 80 named storm days (average is 59.4), 35 hurricane days (average is 24.2), four major (Category 3-5) hurricanes (average is 2.7) and nine major hurricane days (average is 6.2). The probability of U.S. major hurricane landfall is estimated to be about 130% of the longperiod average. We expect Atlantic basin

Accumulated Cyclone Energy (ACE) and Net Tropical Cyclone (NTC) activity in 2020 to be approximately 140% of their longterm averages.“ The team came to the conclusion based on a new extended-range early April statistical prediction scheme that was developed using 38 years of past data, according to the report.

Global warming could be involved.

A weak La Nina could form during the summer; La Nina conditions allow storms to form more easily. The tropical Atlantic is warmer than normal, while the subtropical Atlantic is quite warm, and the far North Atlantic is anomalously cool. The anomalously cold sea surface temperatures in the far North Atlantic lead predictors to believe that more friendly El Nino conditions will be absent this season.

An updated report will be released June 4.

The prediction ended with these words of wisdom.

“Coastal residents are reminded that it only takes one hurricane making landfall to make it an active season for them, and they need to prepare the same for every season, regardless of how much activity is predicted.”

NASA | SUBMITTED

Hurricane Irma, a category 5 storm, hit Florida in September 2017.

Named NS Days Hurricane Storms Days Hurricanes Days

Major Hurricanes

MH Days

2020 predicted

16 80

8

59.4

4

9

2019 observed

18 68.5 6

23.2

3

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Average

12.1 9.4 6.4 24.2

2.7

6.2

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ISLAND NEWS

IN BRIEF

Local real estate team helps shut-ins Need help shopping? Quarantined? Just need someone to talk to? Kelly Gitt & The Gitt Team are partnering with local area churches to support the elderly and disabled on Anna Maria Island. The free service accepts no donations, and follows CDC guidelines, such as confirming arrival to drop off groceries and leave at your doorstep. Call or text Gitt at 941.357.GITT(4488).

Beaches monitored for turtle, bird nesting As beaches become less and less populated due to Island cities limiting parking to reduce COVID-19 risks, Anna Maria Island Turtle Watch and Shorebird Monitoring continues to hit the beaches daily by ATV looking for signs of sea turtle and shorebird nesting.

Black skimmers are “passing the stick and winking and pairing off ” but are not nesting yet, Director Suzi Fox said, adding that no snowy plovers have shown up on area beaches yet.

Sea turtles are being spotted in Gulf and bay waters but have not yet come ashore to nest, she said. Turtle nesting season officially begins on May 1, but turtle timetables vary, and nesting often begins in April.

“In such an uncertain time, it is nice to know there is something good that we can plan on,” Fox said.

Beachfront property owners can get turtlefriendly light bulbs at Home True Value Hardware, 5324 Marina Drive in Holmes Beach, for a $29 donation to Turtle Watch, which provided homemade masks to the employees. Workers are practicing social distancing, wear gloves and have protective plastic around the checkout counter, Fox said, suggesting people order bulbs by phone (941778-2811) and pick them up.

WMFR hosts first budget meeting of the year West Manatee Fire Rescue’s board of commissioners will be meeting virtually at 5 p.m. on Tuesday, April 21 to hold their first discussion for the proposed 2020-21 fiscal year budget. Following that meeting, commissioners will hold their regular meeting, also online, at 6 p.m. Agendas for both meetings and discussion materials, including the proposed budget, will be available to the public on the district’s website prior to the meeting. To access the meeting materials and get instructions on how to join the meeting, visit www.wmfr.org.

Visit our website, www.amisun.com.

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APRIL 15, 2020

Painted rocks bring joy during challenging times

Even during a global pandemic, good news can be found in unexpected places. Such was the case for Holmes Beach resident Sue Hamilton on Thursday, April 2.

“I live in Key Royale. My cleaning lady was coming and the dog next door brought a shoe over to give her as a gift. I went to move the shoe out of my driveway and there was a painted rock by my mailbox that said, ‘You are loved.’ My neighbors on both sides also got painted rocks and my daughter, Robin Hamilton, in Seaside Gardens found one too. I just think it’s wonderful,” Hamilton said.

To the anonymous giver of painted rocks, Hamilton said, “Thank you, Thank you. You made my day. You made my week.”

SUE HAMILTON | SUBMITTED

Clockwise above, Holmes Beach resident Sue Hamilton said the painted rock she found by her mailbox made her day. Left by an unknown giver, this painted rock recently showed up

by Sue Hamilton’s mailbox. This painted rock that says, “Life is Good” was left at a Holmes Beach by an unknown giver.

Holmes Beach resident Robin Hamilton found this rock in a tree while out walking. This smiling rock was left in one of Sue Hamilton’s neighbors’ yard.

APRIL 15, 2020

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At home, coping with COVID

BY CINDY LANE SUN STAFF WRITER | clane@amisun.com

ANNA MARIA ISLAND – As the staff of The Anna Maria Island Sun is working mainly from home to cover the news, we asked our Facebook friends to tell us how the COVID-19 stay-at-home guidelines are affecting you. Here’s what you said: • Lisa Schuesler: “We had to cancel our stay at AMI and we miss the island terribly. We had “warm” weather and took advantage of the sun from Michigan.”

• Mindy Dunham Graham: “Taking walks in our quiet neighbourhood.

Watching a lizard that comes by our window every day at 1 p.m. to say hello, he scratches at it as if he wants to come in... anything to avoid organizing the guest room, for company coming hopefully in November.”

• Linda Burgett Manley: “Count down to moving to Anna Maria in 9 months.”

• Tina Slivonik: “Spending time in the pool after doing yard work and tackling many of the honey do chores that have piled up.”

• Sandy Sadler Lynch: “Making

tomato sauce with the 25 lbs. of Roma tomatoes I bought for $5! I love a good deal!”

• Richard Philbrick: “Practicing the chord melody version of Elizabeth Cotton's Freight Train as I sit anchored on my boat near Coquina Breach boat ramp.”

• Evamarie Bishop Catana: “I’m cleaning my garage in Michigan and thinking that right now if the world was normal I would be in AMI right now.”

• Sandy Marchionda: “#stayhome in NYS... week number three. Stay safe everyone!”

• Debbie Shelton James: “Waiting for this to pass so we can plan our next getaway to Anna Maria.”

• Bliss West: “Missing the island, but baking bread in Beaufort, S.C.” • Deb Kortenhoeven: “Working from home and missing AMI and our friends.”

• David Higgins: “Working like I should be.”

• Kim Shelton: “Daydreaming about AMI!”

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Quarantine help for first responders

BY KRISTIN SWAIN SUN STAFF WRITER | kswain@amisun.com

HOLMES BEACH – Casa Coconut AMI may be closed to visitors but it’s open to first responders who need somewhere to go after being exposed to COVID-19.

Owner Michael Wilcox is opening the three-unit vacation rental property on Fourth Avenue in Holmes Beach at no charge to any area first responders who may have been exposed to the virus and need somewhere to safely quarantine themselves.

In an April 12 email to The Sun, Wilcox said the property has been sitting empty since Gov. Ron DeSantis stopped all vacation rentals in the state, and he has no reservations for the coming months.

“The loss of a large portion of high season income has been a painful blow to us, as it has for all of the vacation rentals on AMI. I wanted to make something good of a bad situation,” Wilcox said in the email.

“This is near to my heart as I am a fire

SUBMITTED | CASA COCONUT AMI

Owner Michael Wilcox is hoping that the closure of his vacation rental property can provide much-needed help to local first responders exposed to coronavirus. lieutenant approaching retirement.

If I can help protect other first responders’ families by allowing them to use something that I am unable to use, it would be a small victory in a war of losses.”

To take advantage of the option to self-quarantine at the vacation rental, Manatee County first responders can inquire with their command staff, email contact@casacoconutami.com or visit the rental online at www. casacoconutami.com.

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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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APRIL 8, 2020

The Anna Maria Island Sun Staff Publishers Mike Field Maggie Field Editor/CEO Mike Field Layout Ricardo Fonseca Reporters Cindy Lane Joe Hendricks Kristin Swain Columnists Louise Bolger Outdoors editor Rusty Chinnis Advertising director Shona Otto Ad assistant Pamela Lee Classified ads Bob Alexander Graphics Elaine Stroili Ricardo Fonseca Digital/Social Media editor Cindy Lane Accounting John Reitz Distribution Bob Alexander Tony McNulty Connor Field Contributors Tom Vaught Pat Copeland Steve Borggren Monica Simpson

ON THE AGENDA ANNA MARIA 10005 GULF DRIVE

For information, call 941-708-6130 City hall is currently closed to the public. All meetings will be held virtually.

April 23, 6 p.m. – City Commission meeting

BRADENTON BEACH 107 GULF DRIVE N.

For information, call 941-778-1005 City hall is currently closed to the public. All meetings will be held virtually.

April 16, noon – City Commission meeting April 28, 9:15 a.m. – Emergency Special City Commission meeting

HOLMES BEACH 5801 MARINA DRIVE

For more information, call 941-708-5800 City hall is currently closed to the public. All meetings will be held virtually.

April 16, 10 a.m. – Bid opening – debris monitoring April 23, 11:30 a.m. – Police Retirement Board April 28, 6 p.m. – City Commission meeting with work session to follow

ISLAND-WIDE

April 21, 5 p.m. – West Manatee Fire Rescue board budget work session with regular meeting to follow. The meeting will be held virtually with instructions to join the meeting available at www.wmfr.org.

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Ugly Grouper and Sean Murphy submit pier lease proposals The mayor and city commissioners plan to discuss the two bid proposals on Thursday, April 23, at 6 p.m.

BY JOE HENDRICKS SUN CORRESPONDENT | jhendricks@amisun.com

ANNA MARIA – The city of Anna Maria received two bids from parties interested in leasing the restaurant and bait shop buildings on the new Anna Maria City Pier.

Anna Maria Mayor Dan Murphy opened the sealed bids during a public pier bid opening at 1 p.m. on Wednesday, April 8.

That date and time also served as the deadline to submit a bid proposal.

The public pier bid opening was conducted as a virtual meeting with most meeting attendees participating by phone, including city commissioners Carol Carter and Amy Tripp Mike Ross and Thad Treadwell from the Ugly Grouper in Holmes Beach submitted a bid proposed, as did Sean Murphy,

owner of the Beach Bistro, Eat Here and The Doctor’s Office in Holmes Beach.

Current pier tenant Mario Schoenfelder did not submit a bid proposal in response to the RFP the city issued in January.

Nor did any other restaurateurs or restaurant groups.

The proposed monthly base rent amounts and all other details contained in the RFP proposals received are not currently available to the media or the public.

Murphy opened the sealed bids in the presence of City Clerk LeAnne Addy.

“Those are the two bids we’ve received. The way this process works is we’ll have 30 days to do an analysis of these bids. I don’t suppose it will take 30 days. It is my anticipation that I would be able to report on these bids, back the commission, by the April 23 meeting at 6 p.m.,” Murphy said, after he opening the sealed envelopes containing the two bid proposals.

“These bids are confidential for 30 days – or they’re not confidential once I release them

CITY OF ANNA MARIA | SUBMITTED

These were the two pier lease bid proposals opened during Wednesday’s public bid opening. back to the commission and make a report on the bids. If we give a report back on April 23, they would then become public record,” Murphy said.

The April 23 commission meeting will begin at 6 p.m. and will be held via teleconferencing.

The public is invited to participate by phone and the instructions on how to do so will be included in the meeting agenda when it’s

posted at the city website, www. cityofannamaria.com.

Once Murphy presents his report to the commission, the commissioners will decide whether to accept or reject the proposals. If the commission accepts the proposals, the commission will then rank the proposals and authorize Murphy to discuss and negotiate lease terms with the top ranked bidder.

If the discussions and negotiations with the top-ranked bidder do not produce a suitable lease agreement, the mayor will seek commission authorization to discontinue those discussions and begin a similar process with the second-highest ranked bidder.

According to the RFP, “The city reserves the right to reject any or all proposals with or without cause; to waive any or all irregularities with regard to the specifications and to make the award to the proposer offering the greatest advantage to the city.

All bids must be sealed and will be rejected if received after the submission date and time.”

Murphy had previously stated that he hoped to open the new pier and pier restrooms to the public in April and leave the pier open while the yet-to-be selected pier tenant completes the interior buildouts of the city-owned pier buildings. But on Thursday, April 9, Murphy and Anna Maria Commission agreed the new pier would remain closed until further notice because of the coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic.

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County commission extends curfew County Commissioners will meet again on Friday, April 17 to determine if the curfew is extended or lifted.

Doctors plead for curfew The Manatee County medical community supports the curfew.

BY JOE HENDRICKS SUN CORRESPONDENT | jhendricks@amisun.com

BY JOE HENDRICKS SUN CORRESPONDENT | jhendricks@amisun.com

BRADENTON – On Friday, April 10, Manatee County Commissioners voted 5-2 to amend and extend the coronavirus-inspired countywide curfew enacted on April 3.

The curfew remains in effect daily from 11 p.m. to 5 a.m. for at least seven more days. The commission will meet on Friday, April 17 to decide if the curfew is extended or lifted.

The curfew does not apply to the northern half of Longboat Key that lies within Manatee County. The entire town of Longboat Key is operating according to Sarasota County guidelines.

Commissioners Reggie Bellamy, Betsy Benac, Misty Servia, Priscilla Trace and Carol Whitmore supported extending the amended curfew. Commissioners

APRIL 15, 2020

JOE HENDRICKS | SUN

County Attorney Mickey Palmer believes the county curfew stands on solid legal ground should it need to be defended in court.

Vanessa Baugh and Steve Jonsson opposed extending the curfew, which they opposed in the first place.

The amended curfew no longer applies to gatherings that occur outdoors at private residences.

On Tuesday, April 7, the Sarasota chapter of the American Civil Liberties Union (ACLU) sent a letter to the county commission expressing concerns about county resolution R-20-053 – the resolution that first enacted the curfew.

“First, the resolution patently SEE CURFEW, PAGE 23

MANATEE COUNTY – The Manatee County community remains divided regarding the countywide curfew that remains in effect from 11 p.m. to 5 a.m. daily.

Enacted in response to the coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic, the curfew limits vehicular and pedestrian travel during those overnight hours to the essential businesses, services and activities defined in Gov. Ron DeSantis’ Executive Order 20-91.

On Friday, April 3 the commission voted 5-2 in favor on enacting the curfew. On Friday, April 10, the commission voted 5-2 to extend an amended version of the curfew for seven more days.

During Friday’s meeting, several members of the public appeared in person to speak in opposition or support of extending the curfew.

CURFEW OPPOSITION

County resident Betty Sales Rhodes spoke first. She said she was glad the commission removed language from the original curfew resolution that pertained to police enforcement at gatherings on private residential property.

She then expressed concerns about the curfew as a whole.

“We as people have rights to life, liberty and the pursuit of happiness and you all sometimes as county commissioners be stepping overboard. You’ve got to treat people as you want yourselves to be treated,” Rhodes said.

Bradenton resident Andra Griffin said, “Last week, five of you chose to violate our rights by unconstitutionally broadening police power. Our Constitution doesn’t say that if you have a medical emergency you can violate our constitutional, civil or property rights.”

Bradenton resident Kevin Wright said, “The Constitution was not designed to government’s job easier.

To the contrary, it was designed to SEE DOCTORS, PAGE 19

APRIL 15, 2020

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Island Photography & DJ a family affair Anna Maria Island residents Dara & Chuck Caudill have combined their creative talents to offer wedding photography & entertainment under one banner, Island Photography & DJ. Together, they will coordinate the photography and music for your special day.

Dara is a professionally trained photographer who combines the latest in digital technology along with an artistic and creative flair. She blends photojournalistic with traditional styles of photography. "A little fantasy mixed with a little reality," she says. "It's important for the photos to be beautiful!"

Chuck is a professional musician and DJ on Anna Maria Island. In addition to ukulele and acoustic guitar ceremonies, Chuck provides live music and/or full DJ services for the reception.. He provides state of the art sound & lighting.

Dara and Chuck are true island residents, so they specialize in beach weddings. The two know how important it is to have the right professionals for your day, especially if you are having a destination wedding. They were married in Kauai, and the people they hired made it a special day. They want to create that same memorable island experience for you.

Over the years, they have become friends with many of the couples they helped marry. They find it rewarding when those couples revisit the area and call them to get together.

Both are fully insured, and belong to many professional organizations including the Anna Maria Island Chamber of Commerce. Please check out their websites – www.islandphotography. org and www.chuckcaudill – to see what they have to offer. For more info, please email daracaudill@verizon.net or call 941-778-5676.

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APRIL 15, 2020

DARA CAUDILL | WWW.ISLANDPHOTOGRAPHY.ORG

Sarah Foland and David Brothers were married on October 12, 2019 at the Snow Hill Country Club in Wilmington Ohio. Aniston Brothers was their flower girl. Sarah's mother, Mary Ann Haines Foland coordinated the ceremony and reception, and also designed all of the floral arrangements in antique vases that belonged to Sarah's grandmothers. Chuck Caudill provided the music for the ceremony and reception. Sarah and David honeymooned on Anna Maria Island. They currently reside in Wilmington, Ohio.

Ralph and Mellody Russo recently celebrated 33 years together on the beach of Anna Maria Island. They are frequent visitors of Anna Maria Island, and currently reside on Lake Ontario in Rochester, New York.

DARA CAUDILL | WWW.ISLANDPHOTOGRAPHY.ORG

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APRIL 15, 2020

Holmes Beach parking closed for beachgoers Police officers will be enforcing the city’s new no parking regulations by towing anyone parked at beach access points, in rights of way and on city streets.

BY KRISTIN SWAIN SUN STAFF WRITER | kswain@amisun.com

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Officers enforce new parking measures While Bradenton Beach didn’t report any parking issues, Holmes Beach ticketed 69 cars and towed seven vehicles.

BY KRISTIN SWAIN SUN STAFF WRITER | kswain@amisun.com

HOLMES BEACH – Visitors to local beaches may have a surprise if they park on city streets, at beach accesses or along rights of way - Holmes Beach police officers are towing them at the violator’s expense.

A press release from the HBPD on April 9 stated that all city parking would be closed begining April 10, except on private property, to discourage people from congregating at the beach. All Manatee County beaches, including Manatee Beach in Holmes Beach, remain closed to the public.

In an April 9 conversation with The Sun, Holmes Beach Mayor Judy Titsworth said that the decision to close the remaining parking at beach accesses, along with street and right of way parking, was made after officers witnessed a larger than normal number of people on the beach April 8. She said the point is to discourage people from coming to the beach and, rather than issuing a parking ticket that a driver may dismiss or ignore, officers will be towing the vehicles at the owner’s expense.

“Anyone who is illegally parked will be towed,” she said.

To help with outreach for the new parking regulations, Titsworth said that new banners had been purchased to place throughout the city to inform residents and visitors of the penalties for parking illegally.

She added that while she understands that people may feel “cooped up” staying at home, it’s still very important for everyone to stay home as much as possible and practice social distancing when they go out to stop the spread of coronavirus.

According to an emergency directive issued by Titsworth on April 9, the new parking regulations will continue through midnight April 30 unless terminated through official action of the mayor.

HOLMES BEACH – The Easter weekend was a busy one for Holmes Beach police officers as they worked to enforce the city’s new no parking mandates.

Beginning April 10, no parking orders went into effect in the city, blocking parking at all beach accesses, along city streets and in the right of way. Banners were placed throughout the city warning drivers that violators would be towed and beach accesses were blocked by police barricades.

Some private parking areas where businesses were closed also were blocked off to prevent illegal parking on April 12.

Also on Sunday, officers and tow truck drivers created a staging area at the then-closed Kingfish boat ramp where seven vehicles were towed on Sunday.

In a conversation with The Sun on April 13, Holmes Beach Police Chief Bill Tokajer said that he had nine officers out on April 12 to help educate drivers. He said that his officers warned drivers as they parked that if they left the vehicle it would be towed at their expense. Without that, he said that the number of cars towed would have been much higher, around 40-50. For the drivers whose

KRISTIN SWAIN | SUN

Banners decorate the roadway along Manatee Avenue and in other spots in the city warning drivers of the new parking regulations in Holmes Beach. vehicles were towed, Tokajer said the vehicles were towed to the boat ramp instead of in town and officers gave the drivers a ride to Kingfish to pay to retrieve their vehicles while pointing out all of the banners and signs the drivers had passed warning of the city’s new parking policies.

Tokajer said that officers gave drivers 69 parking tickets over the weekend to help educate them that the new parking regulations would be enforced.

He added that he had five tow trucks from different companies on Sunday to tow illegally parked vehicles. With Kingfish reopening on April 13, he said that if needed, officers may set up a towing staging area across the street instead of using the area for overflow boat trailer parking.

Both Tokajer and Mayor Judy Titsworth said the new parking regulations are designed to help discourage people from coming to the beach and encourage them

to abide by Gov. Ron DeSantis’ stay at home order, which is set to expire at midnight on April 30. Tokajer said he felt the new parking regulations helped with social distancing and keeping large groups from gathering.

The new parking regulations remain in force until at least April 30 or when Titsworth rescinds her executive directive.

In Bradenton Beach, Lt. John Cosby said that there were no issues with illegally parked vehicles over the weekend. While the city remains under a state of emergency, drivers are advised to not park in the First Street North municipal parking lot, at the Coquina and Cortez county beach parking lots or in barricaded areas. Bradenton Beach police officers are strictly enforcing the new rules and violators may be ticketed or have their vehicles towed at their own expense.

- Sun reporter Joe Hendricks contributed to this story.

Offering the largest selection of spirits, wine & beer on AMI.

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Local entrepreneurs give to save animals

APRIL 15, 2020

Help out local nonprofits during the Giving Challenge This year’s Giving Challenge takes place from noon to noon April 28-29 online at www.givingpartnerchallenge.org.

One Anna Maria couple is using the profits from their retail sales to help fund local animal rescues.

BY KRISTIN SWAIN

BY KRISTIN SWAIN

SUN STAFF WRITER | kswain@amisun.com

SUN STAFF WRITER | kswain@amisun.com

ANNA MARIA – Mark and Christine McConnell are not your average business owners. The two created a line of T-shirts, hats and other items sold at the Pineapple Marketplace but most, if not all, of their profits go to help local animal rescue nonprofits in the area.

The foray into retail is a new venture for both of them, Mark said. The couple has two lines of shirts called AMI Guy and AMI Gal featuring a distinctive turtle logo. The shirts are all long sleeved and provide 98% protection from the sun.

“It’s just a really good product,” Mark said of the shirts.

When he came up with the idea, Mark said he taught himself how to use Photoshop and Illustrator to

SHONA OTTO | SUN

Christine and Mark McConnell display one of their AMI Guy shirts with help from their puppies Nora and Rhett. design and digitize the drawings for the lines’ surfboard and turtle designs. With some help from other local business owners, including friends at HowLuckyAMI and the Pineapple Marketplace, Mark said AMI Gal is now out-selling AMI Guy, the original line, and they’re looking to add new designs in the future.

One thing you’ll notice upon seeing the couple’s booth at the front of the

ANNA MARIA ISLAND – After taking a year off, this year The Giving Challenge returns just when local nonprofits need funds the most.

Due to closures to help slow the spread of coronavirus, many local nonprofits have had to close their doors to the public and seen drops in the donations required to keep their community programs going after the pandemic passes.

The Giving Challenge, hosted by The Community Foundation of Sarasota County, brings together nearly 700 local nonprofit organizations to help raise needed funds.

One of the bonuses of giving to local organizations during the challenge is that donations of up to $100 each are matched by The Patterson Foundation.

That means that a donation of $100 to a participating Island nonprofit results in $200 going to the nonprofit.

All the nonprofits in this year’s Giving Challenge are from Manatee, Sarasota, Charlotte and DeSoto counties. Some of the local participating organizations are: - The Center of Anna Maria Island - The Anna Maria Island Concert Chorus and Orchestra SEE GIVING, PAGE 24

SEE ENTREPRENEUERS, PAGE 24

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Easter Bunny still goes to work The coronavirus pandemic cancelled the Chiles Group’s annual Easter Egg Hunt and Easter Egg Roll down Pine Avenue, but that didn’t stop the Easter Bunny from making his rounds on Easter Sunday. The Easter Bunny’s workday began at the Mar Vista Dock Side Restaurant in Longboat Key greeting those who arrived by boat or car to pick up their Easter dinners to go. The Easter Bunny then hopped over to the Sandbar restaurant in Anna Maria to continue spreading the holiday cheer.

CHILES GROUP | SUBMITTED

Clockwise above, The Easter Bunny said, “What’s up Dock?” Chiles Group owner Ed Chiles and the Easter Bunny maintained social distancing near the bunny cutouts created

by Chiles’ wife, Tina. The Easter Bunny greeted those who traveled to Mar Vista by sea and by land.

‛S YOUR COMFORT ZONE? WHERE

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THE SUN

JOE HENDRICKS | SUN

Here’s to the heroes This large sign erected near the main entrance to the Blake Medical Center in Bradenton pays tribute to the health care workers and first responders who are on the front line of the coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic.

Our building may be closed, but our MINISTRIES continue!

THE GOOD NEWS We invite you to w ship with us online!

www.RoserChurch.com/worship

Every Sunday 10:00 AM Traditional Worship 5:30 PM

soulJourn Praise & Worship

Watch LIVE (interactive) or LATER! Call the office if you need assistance.

Call the church text ROSER to 22828 to receive the weekly eBulletin.

FACEBOOK> follow> see first, join a group. Need help? Call the office!

The FOOD PANTRY is open to assist island residents/w kers in need.

The CHAPEL is open 9:00 to 3:00 weekdays f prayer & meditation.

Send PRAYER REQUESTS to info@r erchurch.com call the office.

Call the church office if you would like to talk to a PASTOR. A NON DENOMINATIONAL CHRISTIAN COMMUNITY COMMUNITY CHURCH • 512 Pine Ave, Anna Maria [near Pier]

941-778-0414 • www.RoserChurch.com • Facebook @RoserChurch

APRIL 15, 2020

www.amisun.com

APRIL 15, 2020

Order Your Local Organic Fresh Produce Box Gamble Creek Farms is now offering two unique produce boxes each week. Pick up your box, packed with a balanced assortment of organic veggies, including salad greens, cooking greens, root crops, fruiting vegetables and culinary herbs.

If you are selecting the Monday box, each also includes a house-made pickled or fermented item from our commissary kitchen examples may include Sauerkraut, Kimchi, Fermented Radishes, Cucumber Pickles, Fermented Sliced Beets.

$30.00 Per Box! gamble creek

To Order Call 941-778-0444

or

SandBarDining.com/ organic-produce

Orders are delivered to the restaurants on Mondays & Thursdays and can be picked up after 12pm. Box contents are farmer's choice and are not individually customizable.

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APRIL 15, 2020

941.779.2337 9:00 AM - 10:00 PM 7 DAYS A WEEK 5344 3 GULF DRIVE, HOLMES BEACH

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APRIL 15, 2020

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THE SUN

OUTDOORS

APRIL 15, 2020

Supporting Suncoast Waterkeeper: The Giving Challenge

I

’ve been privileged to live on the Suncoast since 1981. Being an avid angler, I started seeing the need to act to protect our estuaries and Gulf waters in 1985. That’s the year I joined with Captain Scott Moore and other concerned anglers to form the Manatee Chapter of the Florida Conservation Association, now the CCA. What began as concern for our fisheries grew into a love for and desire to protect the habitat that supports this amazing area we call home. In 1989 I joined a group of local citizens on Longboat Key to form an organization called The Sister Keys Conservancy to lobby for the purchase and protection of these undeveloped islands. Nearby Tidy Island had just been developed on the eastern shore of Sarasota Bay and blue septic tanks were lined up to be buried on Jewfish Key. In 1992, thanks to the work of citizens, businesses and local environmental groups, the Town of Longboat Key purchased the islands.

In 2007 a $1.2 million restoration removed all invasive species, planted natives and created a twoacre wetland. Today, the incredible growth there demonstrates the “Restorative Power of Nature” and the ability of concerned citizens to initiate positive change.

In 2007 I was part of a group of bay advocates that formed Sarasota Bay Watch (SBW) in response to a persistent Harmful Algae Bloom (HABs, a/k/a red tide) that was devastating life in the Gulf and bay.

In subsequent years an outpouring of support from area businesses and residents has raised awareness

Reel Time RUSTY CHINNIS of the importance of clean water to the health of the bay and the local economy. SBW has ongoing events that remove debris and invasive plants from local islands, fishing line from bird rookeries, conduct underwater cleanups, create educational programs for students and restock scallop and clams to bay waters, boosting dwindling populations of these critical bivalves.

While I still believe in and continue to support the work of these organizations, it became clear to me that all these efforts were being compromised by lax and unenforced directives mandated to protect water quality under the landmark 1972 Clean Water Act. Antiquated and deficient sewage and wastewater systems were raising nitrogen levels in Tampa and Sarasota bays, exposing the public to dangerous pathogens and exacerbating the HABs. The next logical step for me was to become a member of and eventually join the Board of Suncoast Waterkeeper (SCWK).

SCWK, www.suncoastwaterkeeper. org, is a local organization that’s doing the critical work I believe is necessary to address the insults to our waters. They’re alerting the public to water quality issues that are crucial to address if the efforts of all the

RUSTY CHINNIS | SUN

The waters of Palma Sola Bay (closed due to COVID-19) are a popular destination for fishermen and families. Compromised waters can endanger public health. SCWK helps alert municipalities to water quality programs in areas untested by the state. other environmental groups are to be successful. They’re working to help municipalities challenge ill-conceived phosphate mining projects and their “Sick of Sewage” campaign is holding polluters accountable for illegal discharges to local bays. In addition, a newly-instituted water quality testing program is making residents and government entities aware of potential health issues in inshore waters not being tested by the state. Currently they’re creating an educational program to mentor students that will become the leaders and environmental stewards of the future.

That’s why I joined Suncoast Waterkeeper and why I think supporting their mission is

critical if we want to protect this amazing resource for our children, grandchildren and future generations.

You can help SCWK make a difference by donating to support their mission between noon on April 28 and noon on April 29 during the 2020 Giving Challenge, www. cfsarasota.org/nonprofits/givingchallenge. This is an exciting online 24-hour event that connects nearly 700 nonprofit organizations with passionate donors to support diverse causes and create enduring impact in Sarasota, Manatee, Charlotte and DeSoto counties. You can also join SCWK and support their efforts to protect local waters at www. suncoastwaterkeeper.org.

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APRIL 15, 2020

THE SUN

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DOCTORS: Plead for curfew FROM PAGE 8

make it more difficult. The ease with which you implemented a decision prevented you from giving due consideration to how difficult it should have been to arrive at that decision.

One citizen told me she did not feel her rights were violated by the resolution.

She missed a more important point: Choosing not to exercise a right does not mean that right does not exist.”

Bradenton resident George Kruse said, “After the stay-at-home (order) was initiated, Manatee County elected to take one step further and initiate our curfew. I question why we’d do this because we’ve got a Republican governor and he’s looking out for our best interest. At the very least, six out of the seven of you run as Republicans.

So, I think you would give our Republican governor the benefit of the doubt that he knows what’s best for us.

“We can’t come to consensus on why we have this curfew in place. This was put in place to scare us. It was put in place for fear. It was an opportunity to tell us that if we don’t follow the orders of Gov. DeSantis, then there is a chance that even more stringent requirements and restrictions are going to be placed upon us,” Kruse said.

“The citizens of Manatee County are capped out with fear. We don’t need our elected officials to add another layer of that onto our lives. Get rid of this curfew. You can either govern from above through fear or lead side-by-side through hope,” Kruse concluded.

“I’m not in support of the curfew unless there is some medical evidence that shows the coronavirus is more active after 11 o’clock,” Bradenton resident Rodney Jones said.

Bradenton resident Ruth Lyerly said, “It is not in the Constitution that you should trample on rights or scare citizens. Where do we draw the line?”

CURFEW SUPPORT

Dr. Scott Clulow represented the Manatee County Medical Society in support of the curfew, and he read aloud a letter the society sent to the commissioners earlier in the week.

“The Manatee County Medical Society applauds your decision to enact a curfew in Manatee County to further protect its citizens above and beyond the governor’s most recent order. We know this was a difficult decision and took courage to do so, even with the opposition of some citizens concerned with the violation of their civil rights,” Clulow said.

“Manatee County is home to more than 400,000 residents. Our community’s median age is 49 years; however, 27% of our residents are older than 65 years. We have 13 nursing

JOE HENDRICKS | SUN

Dr. Joseph Haider expressed his continued support for the county curfew. homes with approximately 1,500 residents and three of them currently have residents diagnosed with the COVID-19 virus. There is a significant proportion of our population in the highest risk group that could be seriously affected by this horrible virus,” Clulow said.

“Taking into consideration our population, it is possible to have an excess of 4,000 people infected.

Approximately 15% of those people could require hospitalization with up to 5% becoming critically ill, with an estimated 2.5% mortality rate in people older than 65. These numbers are abysmal. The Florida peak date has been moved up to April 21st.

The capacity of our community to take care of these cases can be easily overtaken if we do not continue to take immediate bold measures to flatten this curve,” Clulow said.

“The Manatee County Medical Society is extremely concerned for the potential risk to our community. It is for this reason we make the following recommendations: In addition to the brave decision to impose a local curfew, social distancing and following safe-at-home protocols, we request the Board of County Commissioners make a recommendation to encourage all Manatee County citizens and visitors to wear masks – not N95 masks, regular masks – when out in public, especially when making commercial transactions,” Clulow said.

During Friday’s meeting, the commission made no such recommendation.

Dr. Joseph Haider is a physician at Manatee Memorial Hospital in Bradenton.

“Life, liberty and the pursuit of happiness all begin with life. There can be no happiness, there can be no liberty without life. We have to take measures and we have to act now because flattening the curve doesn’t mean we’re not all going to get sick.

Flattening the curve means we’re

JOE HENDRICKS | SUN

A Bradenton resident encouraged county commissioners to lead with hope rather than fear.

not overrun in the hospitals which are already short on ventilators.

Flattening the curve means I’m not making decisions, or other people are not making decisions, whether you or someone else in the county gets a ventilator or not,” Haider said.

Haider said he just finished working two 84-hour work weeks in a row before getting some time off.

“Everybody is tired, but what keeps us going is that we’re all on Team Humanity. Those nurses in that COVID unit dressing up with a pound of PPE are hot. Wearing a N95 for four to six hours before being allowed to use the bathroom or have a drink of water, that’s physically taxing. Everybody is exhausted,’ Haider said.

“The message here is simple.

Republican, Democrat, anything in between is out the door. We all belong to humanity at this point. It’s about giving everyone the chance to have the pursuit of life, therefore on another day pursuing their liberty and coming home and being happy with their families,” Haider said.

Dr. Werther Marciales is the Director of the Internal Medicine Department at Manatee Memorial Hospital. He is one of the doctors in charge of the hospital’s COVID unit and he is treating COVID-19 patients.

“We all know this is not the flu. This is a very transmissible virus which has shown deadly consequences, especially in the population that we serve in Manatee County. Our role as primary care providers is to give guidance to the county commissioners about proper measures that will preserve the health of the population of this county,” Marciales said.

Marciales thanked the commission majority for voting in favor of “common sense restrictions that were shown in other models to be the best way to prevent the spread of the disease.”

He then said, “As my colleague (Dr. Haider) eloquently expressed,

flattening the curve doesn’t mean that this disease is going away. What it means is that if we can spread the disease over a long period of time we’re not going to have this surge in which we’re going to have more people that need beds than what we have in Manatee County. At that point, the health care professionals will need to make very difficult decisions to see who’s going to get the vent and who’s not,” Marciales said.

“I listen to the points that other people have made in terms of civil liberties and infringement of their rights. Your right as county commissioners is to protect the health of the citizens of this county and for that you need to listen to the experts,” Marciales said.

Dr. Juliana Dale is a physician at Manatee Memorial Hospital.

She said on Friday there were 24 COVID-19 patients at that hospital and approximately half of them were on ventilators. Another 12 patients were quarantined at home.

“Two weeks ago, we had four patients,” she said.

“This disease is spreading faster than we thought it would and our peak is now April 21st. I’ve seen nurses who have not seen their family in weeks.

I’ve seen them in tears, just being overwhelmed right now, and we’re not even at our full capacity yet,” Dale said.

“The point of this curfew is not to limit people’s rights. It’s really to protect our citizens. It’s about getting traffic off the road from 11 to 5. If we don’t have those accidents, it gives the ER more time to take care of the patients that are getting sick from this virus, while also saving protective equipment. We’re not putting this curfew in to create fear. We’re putting this curfew in to give hope and the chance to pursue happiness,” Dale said.

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REAL ESTATE

APRIL 15, 2020

Locked up in paradise

s I write this, outside is the first non-perfect spring Florida day in about three weeks. It just makes me more thankful for living in paradise even if we’re locked down. You can still walk out your front door, smell the fresh warm air and take a short walk or bike ride to renew your soul.

But what about the souls of the poor people caught in the limbo of a pending real estate transaction?

According to the National Association of Realtors, pending home sales rose 2.4% in February from a month earlier.

Since pending sales generally predate closing by one or two months, you can assume there were a lot of pending sales in the pipeline when the coronavirus hit and business started to shut down.

So, what happens to those transactions and the buyers and sellers on either end of the transactions? There are a lot of steps in getting a home sale to the finish line. Even after a contract is negotiated

Castles in the Sand LOUISE BOLGER and signed, you have home inspections, lender appraisals, termite inspectors and, of course, the closing.

According to the International Association of Certified Home Inspectors, many home inspecting companies are reluctant to send their staff into homes. Some are attempting to work with drive-by appraisers using exterior photos and county records, obviously slowing down that piece of the transaction.

Naturally, all other inspections that may be required are facing the same stumbling block, as are bank appraisers.

Closings are another topic. Although the technology to close properties has been around for a long time, the slowmoving real estate community mostly continues to operate on paper and fax machines. You can bet that’s another system that can anticipate drastic updating in the years ahead as a result of this virus with electronic signing of documents becoming more widespread.

Now, however, the closing culture in many regions of the country is still a sitdown closing. With buyers, sellers, real estate agents and sometimes attorneys around a closing table where it can get pretty crowded, certainly not in line with CDC regulations. But committed real estate professionals are doing their best to get the properties out of limbo and into heaven by closing homes any place where they can avoid close encounters and big crowds. Not an easy and quick process, and hopefully all parties to the transactions are keeping their anxieties in check.

The Realtor Association of Sarasota and Manatee reported the following pending transactions at the end of February: Single-family homes (968 properties) up 12.3% from last year, and condos (393 properties) up 10.1% from last year. That’s a lot of transactions to get closed while navigating through a pandemic, and when the March pending statistics are available in a few weeks we’ll see where the pending numbers are.

If you’re one of the limbo dwellers, help the professionals as much as you can to get the transaction done without jeopardizing anyone’s health. There could be a good story here to pass on to the next generation when we all start laughing again.

To the people in other parts of the country who are locked down without the benefit of perfect weather and the ability to get outdoors, my thoughts are with you. As always, stay safe.

www.amisun.com

APRIL 15, 2020

Top real estate producers for March, 2020 A PARADISE

MIKE NORMAN

Quentin Talbert Listing & Selling

Rochelle Bowers - Listing Carla Beddow - Selling

AN ISLAND PLACE REALTY

REMAX ALLIANCE GROUP

DUNCAN REAL ESTATE

SALTY MERMAID REAL ESTATE

Sue Carlson - Listing Tanya McCormick - Selling Lindsey Leech - Listing April Green - Selling

EDGEWATER REAL ESTATE Lynn Zemmer Listing & Selling

FRAN MAXON REAL ESTATE Sharon and Tim Villars Listing Stephanie Bell - Selling

ISLAND REAL ESTATE

Kathleen White - Listing Ryan Sheck - Selling

Erlene Fitzpatrick – Listing Duane Finney - Selling

Jason Hrnak – Listing Liz Blandford- Selling

SATO REAL ESTATE

John Damato – Listing Jason Sato - Selling

WAGNER REAL ESTATE Lisa Marie Allen - Listing Carol Codella - Selling

THE SUN

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Mayor issues executive order for vacation rentals Mayor Judy Titsworth has issued an executive order prohibiting all vacation rental owners and managers from taking new reservations or check-ins through the end of the month.

BY KRISTIN SWAIN SUN STAFF WRITER | kswain@amisun.com

HOLMES BEACH – Mayor Judy Titsworth wants vacation rentals in her city to remain on hold at least through April 30.

On April 7, Titsworth issued an executive order requiring all vacation rental owners and managers to stop taking new reservations and to cease checkins until Gov. Ron DeSantis lifts the statewide stay-at-home order.

The governor’s order is currently set to expire April 30.

Titsworth’s order is in response to coronavirus concerns and is

an effort to slow the spread of the disease. As of April 9, Holmes Beach had one confirmed case of COVID-19, the only case so far on Anna Maria Island.

In Titsworth’s April 8 daily status of the city report related to COVID-19, she said that the city’s vacation rental management companies informed city hall staff that there were many rental check-ins scheduled for the Easter weekend of April 10-12.

In an April 9 discussion with The Sun, Titsworth said she spoke with several rental agency representatives who were expecting check-ins on Easter weekend and needed help to cancel the reservations.

Issuing the order gives the rental agencies the ability to cancel upcoming reservations, she said, adding that all the vacation rental managers she’s spoken with are on board with not allowing vacation rentals through the end of the month.

DeSantis issued an order on March 27 stopping new vacation rentals in Florida for 14 days. Those 14 days originally expired on April 10, but the governor issued a last-minute extension through the end of the month. Earlier on the same day, Titsworth also issued an emergency directive blocking vacation rentals in the city for a period of seven days, which can be extended as needed for consecutive periods of seven days. She said that her directive was issued for seven days instead of for the length of the state stay-at-home order in hopes that the city would be able to welcome guests back earlier than anticipated.

Neither the city nor the state order applies to resorts, hotels, motels or long-term rentals.

Police and code compliance officers are enforcing the city’s no new check-in mandate for vacation rentals.

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THE SUN

BOAT RAMPS: Reopened

APRIL 15, 2020

The Island folks are all unanimously in support of the closure of the boat ramps because they see the

FROM PAGE 1

COMMISSION DEBATE

The boat ramp debate ensued after Deputy Assistant County Attorney Bill Clague again shared his legal opinion that Gov. Ron DeSantis’ executive order pertaining to essential services and activities (EO 20-91) requires all boat ramps, boat launches and marinas to remain closed until the order expires on April 30. Clague said the governor’s order provides exceptions for licensed saltwater commercial fishermen, first response vessels, ferries and liveaboard boaters.

Clague also referenced the emergency management operations policy group meetings that now take place weekly.

Those telephonic meetings include county representatives and law enforcement officials as well as representatives from the city governments and law enforcement agencies in Manatee County, including Anna Maria Island.

“It’s your decision to make, but those views should carry great weight, because

many of the people in that group, particularly the representatives of law enforcement, are dealing with this crisis every day on the front line,” Clague said in regard to the boat ramps being reopened.

Saur said all the Island representatives at the policy group meetings supported the boat ramps being closed and support them staying closed because of the large groups of boaters that congregate offshore of the Island.

Manatee County Sheriff Rick Wells participates in the policy group meetings.

“The issues that we were having were at Jewfish Key, Beer Can Island and Passage Key. We were not able to control that. That has not changed. We still have that same problem now that we did three weeks ago.

Both of my boats are on the water every weekend trying to keep people safe with proper social distancing guidelines and no more than 10 (people) per boat,” Wells said.

Baugh asked if the boat ramps could be opened to county residents only. Wells said he does not have the resources to verify

congregation of boaters.”

Betsy Benac, Manatee County Commission Chairperson the residency of every boat ramp user.

As commission chair, Benac represents the commission at the policy group meetings.

“The Island folks are all unanimously in support of the closure of the boat ramps because they see the congregation of boaters,” Benac said.

“Every mayor on Anna Maria Island supports keeping it closed,” Whitmore said.

Servia said she respected Clague and Wells’ opinions, but she was concerned about those who’ve become unemployed during the pandemic.

“Unemployment is a public health concern and our poorest people are having problems getting out on the water to fish and get food for their family,” Servia said.

“Are we protecting the public’s health by

closing the boat ramps or are we creating a bigger problem? Give me a compelling reason why we need to keep them closed,” she added.

Before making her motion, Trace said, “I’m going to have to disagree with policy group on this one. We did not vote on this.

Every weekend since we closed the boat ramps, they’ve had to chase them off Beer Can Island, Passage Key and a couple of the other keys,” Trace said.

She also shared Servia’s concerns about people being allowed to fish for food.

“When you could not get meat at Publix, they would have gone out and caught enough fish to take care of their neighbors, their family and everybody,” Trace said.

APRIL 15, 2020

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THE SUN

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CURFEW: County commission extends curfew FROM PAGE 8

restricts groups of individuals – even if related by kinship – from gathering at exterior spaces on their own property. We see no reasonable basis for permitting families to gather inside their homes, but broadly prohibiting them from gathering on porches or in yards,” the ACLU letter said.

“Second, the resolution patently and disproportionately puts homeless persons at risk of detainment. There is simply no way for people who live on the streets to be in compliance with the law between the hours of 11 p.m. and 5 a.m.,” the ACLU letter said.

As adopted on Friday, county resolution R-20-056 addresses the ACLU concerns.

CURFEW RESTRICTIONS

The amended curfew no longer lists specific exceptions such as traveling for work, traveling to secure food or supplies, traveling to check on a friend or loved one or walking your dog late at night.

“All of those items have been removed and it now simply reads:

‘A curfew is established effective immediately for all of Manatee County. All pedestrian and vehicular movement, standing and parking – except for persons engaged in essential services or essential activities as those terms are defined in governor’s Executive Order, 20-91 – are prohibited during curfew hours,” County Attorney Mickey Palmer said.

Palmer said he’s well aware that several county residents have threatened to sue the county over the curfew.

“Trust me when I tell you commissioners that my office has thoroughly researched the legalities of curfews enacted by local governments at times of emergency. We are very comfortable,” Palmer said.

According to EO 20-91, essential activities include attending religious services, participating in recreational activities consistent with social distancing guidelines, taking care of pets and caring for or assisting loved ones or friends. Traveling for work that is considered an essential business or service according to the governor’s order is still allowed any time of day or night.

“Local jurisdictions shall ensure that groups of people greater than 10 are not permitted to congregate in any public space,” the governor’s order says.

The governor’s order expires on April 30, unless extended.

OFFICIALS SPEAK

Manatee County Sheriff Rick Wells said his deputies have not arrested anyone or issued any orders to appear in court for violating the county curfew or the governor’s order. Wells said deputies and other law enforcement officers are educating those they encounter about the need to adhere to the governor’s order and the county curfew.

“The governor’s executive order is a ‘stay-at-home’ order, not a ‘stay-athome-if-you-want-to’ order. Whether it’s 2 p.m. or 2 a.m., the governor’s order is clear. If you are not traveling for essential services or activities you are to stay at home,” Wells said.

Public Safety Director Jake Saur reminded the commission that the curfew’s primary purpose is to limit first responders’ exposure to potential

coronavirus carriers. He hopes this will prevent the ranks of the county’s first responders from being depleted.

Saur said 14 fire and EMS personnel have already experienced the highest level of coronavirus exposure and were temporarily removed from the workforce.

Saur said EMS has seen a 19.8% decrease in call volume since the curfew was enacted. He said the Manatee County Sheriff’s Office has seen a 25.3% decrease in calls for service and the Florida Highway Patrol has seen a significant decrease in vehicular crashes. Saur said the Manatee County 911 call center saw a 41% reduction in call volume on the first Saturday night the curfew was in effect.

Saur said the COVID-19 fatality rate was currently 6% in Manatee County as opposed to the statewide average of approximately 2%, He said this might be because of the county’s significant elderly population.

Saur said COVID-19 cases are expected to peak in Manatee County on or around April 21.

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THE SUN

APRIL 15, 2020

ENTREPRENEURS: Locals give to save animals FROM PAGE 12

Pineapple Marketplace, a Pine Avenue store featuring 30 vendors selling everything from crafts to clothing and jewelry, is the signs on top of the clothing racks advertising that purchases help fund local animal rescues.

Mark said that he’s been donating to local rescue organizations since his arrival in Anna Maria Island seven years ago. After being joined

by Christine, the idea to give as much as they could to the animal rescues evolved into the business they now run using local printers and suppliers to create their products. In the past three months he said they’ve been able to donate $3,000 to local rescues. Some of the rescues they’ve helped include Anna Maria Island Turtle Watch and Shorebird Monitoring, UnderDog Rescue of Florida and Forget-Me-Not, a

large dog/pit bull rescue in Bradenton.

“We’re trying to just keep getting as much money as we can to rescues,” Mark said.

Christine said that the rescues they’ve donated to so far are ones that they’ve had experience with.

The couple adopted one of their puppies from UnderDog and Christine volunteers with Forget-Me-Not. As for AMITW, Mark said he has a lot of

respect for the work the organization does and that “it’s a great cause.”

The couple said they’re open to helping additional organizations in the future.

In the future for their clothing line, Mark is working on websites for the AMI Guy and AMI Gal shirts as well as new designs. The physical retail space is planned to remain at the Pineapple Marketplace where the couple also volunteers.

- Moonracer No Kill Animal Rescue - Mote Marine Laboratory - Palma Sola Botanical Park Foundation - Southeastern Guide Dogs - South West Florida Therapy Animals - Special Olympics Florida – Manatee County - Suncoast Waterkeeper - Art Center Manatee - The Blessing Bags Project - Hope Seeds - The Manatee Players

- TIFF Initiative - Underdog Rescue of Florida - We Care Manatee - Wildlife Education and Rehabilitation Inc. - Women’s Resource Center Inc. There are many more organizations participating. For information on all the participating nonprofits and to donate during the challenge, visit The Giving Challenge online at www. givingpartnerchallenge.org.

GIVING: Help out local nonprofits FROM PAGE 12

- The Artists’ Guild of Anna Maria Island - Florida Institute for Saltwater Heritage (FISH) - Friends of Manatee County Animal Services Inc. - Friends of the Florida Maritime Museum - Keep Manatee Beautiful - The Paradise Center of Longboat Key

- Manatee Children’s Services - Manatee County 4-H Association - Manatee County Audubon Society - Manatee County Habitat for Humanity - Manatee County Public Library Foundation - Manatee County Historical Commission - Manatee Family YMCA - Mayors Feed the Hungry Program - Meals on Wheels Plus of Manatee

APRIL 15, 2020

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THE SUN

25

Easter on the Island

KRISTIN SWAIN | SUN

Brightly colored Easter bunnies decorate the exterior of The Studio at Gulf and Pine in Anna Maria.

KRISTIN SWAIN | SUN

Two crosses decorated with fresh flowers are displayed Easter Sunday in front of the sanctuary at Roser Church in Anna Maria along with Easter lilies donated and dedicated by church members.

Library books still available The Island Branch Library in Holmes Beach remains closed, but book lovers can still borrow books from the boxes of books placed outside the library’s main entrance. As a safety precaution, you may want to sanitize any borrowed books before bringing them into your home.

MIKE FIELD | SUN

JOE HENDRICKS | SUN

JACK BRENNAN | SUBMITTED

Food pantry is full, for now…

The Roser Food Pantry’s shelves are full again thanks to the food and financial donations recently made by the Anna Maria Island community. But the work is never done. If you need food or want to donate to the cause call the Roser Memorial Community Church office at 941-778-0414.

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THE SUN

City governments hosting virtual meetings The city of Bradenton Beach now conducts virtual city meetings using ZOOM teleconferencing software.

BY JOE HENDRICKS SUN CORRESPONDENT | jhendricks@amisun.com

BRADENTON BEACH – The Island’s city governments continue to operate as the coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic unfolds.

The Island’s city governments have adapted to the times and are now hosting virtual meetings or telephonic meetings. The county commission is doing the same.

During these meetings, some elected officials and staff members are present in person while others participate remotely.

The Bradenton Beach City Commission will hold its next virtual meeting at noon on Thursday, April 26.

Thursday’s meeting will be conducted via ZOOM Communications Media Technology (E-Meeting). Interested persons may participate by E-Meeting at: www.zoom.us/join: The meeting ID is 137 695 523 and the meeting password is 072455.

Anyone having technical difficulties or unable to use ZOOM can listen to and participate in

the commission meeting via telephone by calling 1-253-2158782. Those who wish to provide public comment may also email the City Clerk at tsanclemente@ cityofbradentonbeach.com in advance of the meeting. The Katie Pierola commission chambers will remain closed to the public until further notice.

Thursday’s meeting will begin with general public comment, followed by a proclamation pertaining to Municipal Clerks Week.

The consent agenda seeks commission approval of the following invoices: a. Approval of Invoices #1955 & 1994 from LTA Engineers in the amount of $2,199.17. b. Approval of Invoice #1995 from LTA Engineers in the amount of $3,926.30. c. Approval of Invoice #20005-1 from MSB Services, LLC in the amount of $30,335.00. d. Approval of Invoices #76015 & 76016 from M.T. Causley in the amount of $10,612.50. e. Approval of Invoice #37730Appeal from Robert Watrous in the Amount of $532.00. f. Approval of Invoice #37731Sunshine Law from Robert Watrous in the Amount of $9,342.00.

g. Approval of Invoices #23664a, 23664c, & 23683b from Woodruff & Sons in the Amount of $16,772.50. h. Approval of Invoices #23664b & 23683a from Woodruff & Sons in the Amount of $9,936.25.

Under new business, the commission will discuss a special event permit sought by the Lay-Z-Liv-N condominiums for a wedding reception and block party. It is not yet known what impact the coronavirus pandemic will have on this request.

The commission will discuss the renewal of the health insurance policies for the city’s employees.

The commission will discuss the possible installation of a RRFB audio-signalized crosswalk at 27th Street and Gulf Drive.

Under attorney business, the commission will discuss, and likely vote on, the second reading of Ordinance 20-515, which is an ordinance that addresses the city limited abilities to require aesthetic elements for any 5G and autonomous motor vehicle transmitters placed in city rights of ways.

The meeting will end with general updates and reports from the mayor and commissioners.

APRIL 15, 2020

www.amisun.com

APRIL 15, 2020

OBITUARIES Ronney Maine Scott Ronney Maine Scott, of Holmes Beach, passed quietly and gracefully from this life on April 4, 2020 at home with the love of his life, Nancy, and his adoring Basenji, Binti, by his side.

The doctors and nurses who aided him during his four-year battle with cancer always referred to him as a true warrior.

Born in Philadelphia, PA, he graduated from Drexel University, and worked as an aerospace engineer for NASA, creating the first stage of the Saturn 5 rocket, the most powerful rocket on Earth and the one that enabled man to go to the moon.

Ron met his wife, Nancy, in Pittsburgh where he attended Pittsburgh Presbyterian Seminary and was ordained as a Presbyterian minister. Ron and Nancy enjoyed working in various cities on the East coast of the country.

They settled down 20 years ago in the paradise they discovered - Anna Maria Island - where Ronney earned his Realtor license and joined Bark and Company Realty working with his dear friend, Steve Bark. Ron and Nancy were married for 46 years.

Ron leaves behind a large loving family made up of four godchildren, stepsisters and brothers, four adopted nieces, and especially our dear close friends who we are lucky enough to call our family.

Memorial Services for Ronney will be scheduled at a later date at Palma Sola Presbyterian Church followed by a reception to Celebrate the Life of this funny, intelligent, kind and gentle man. Brown & Sons Funeral Homes & Crematory 43rd Street Chapel is in charge of arrangements.

We thank the Lord for giving Ron to us and we ask that He bless Ronney as he steps into the Mystery that is God. In lieu of flowers, we ask for donations to honor our Ron to go to either Basenji Rescue and Transport (https://www.basenjirescue.org/ go to donation page) or Moffitt Cancer Center (https://moffitt.org/ go to GIVE page.). Condolences may be made to www.brownandsonsfuneral.com.

Brad “BchBum” Lisk Brad “BchBum” Lisk, born in Lima, OH on May 29, 1968, passed away March 25, 2020 in Bradenton.

Brad was preceded in death by his parents, Dave Lisk and Paula Jenkins.

He is survived by his two sisters, Stacey Lisk and Summer Phillips, as well as his twin sons, Shane and Tanner Lisk.

Brad Lisk was an Island legend, a pirate at heart and wise beyond his years. More importantly he was a loving and caring father. Brad’s passion for Mountain Dew, the beach, Little League, women and Rock ‘N’ Roll will never be forgotten. Peace, love and happiness was his way of life and he will truly be missed by his community.

Until we meet again... “Hang Loose.”

Jerry P. Perry Jerry was born in Chattanooga, TN on June 8, 1935 and died on March 24, 2020 at age 84 . He graduated from Central High School. He continued his education at Berea College, Iowa State University and received his Ph.D. from Syracuse University. He lived in Richmond, KY since 1974, where he raised his family and had a teaching career at Eastern Kentucky University in Richmond, KY as head of the mass communications

department. He retired to Holmes Beach in 1995.

Jerry was a gifted writer, loving husband, and father whose smile lit up any room. His faith in God was extraordinary and he served out his faith until the end of this life. He worked with the youth in his church and also in Florida Prison Ministries.

He was a deacon, choir member and at times taught Sunday school at First Presbyterian Church in Bradenton, FL. He shared his faith in a gentle, caring way with all who came in his path. He loved his family dearly.

He married Barbara Peters Perry, his high school sweetheart, in Sept.

2008. For several years, they spent six months in her home in Arkansas and six months in Bradenton and in 2015 made Bradenton their permanent home.

Jerry leaves behind his wife, Barbara Perry; five loving children, David Perry (Cecilia) and their children Ashley, Michael and Allen Sean Perry (Laura Wick) and their children Olin and Levi, (Jessica McKinnon Jason) and their three children, Katriel, Jaslynn and Martin; two step-children, Gary Gamble and Gina Gretz and their children, Maya and Colton Gamble, Anna and Claire Gretz; a sister, Jane Stone (Robert); along with many loving cousins, nieces, nephews and friends.

Preceded in death by his parents, Jerry W. Perry and Helen H. Perry, and wife, the late Joan Shaw Perry.

A Celebration of Life will take place in the future when travel is easier for out of state loved ones. Plans will be announced at that time.

Arrangements were under the care of Shannon Funeral Homes. Online condolences may be made at www. shannonfuneralhomes.com.

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BEACH BEAT ANNA MARIA No new reports

BRADENTON BEACH No new reports

CORTEZ

No new reports

HOLMES BEACH

4/3, found property, Publix, 3900 East Bay Drive. Somebody left $102 cash at the register.

4/6, assist fire department, 5600 block of Gulf Drive. Police shut down traffic near an automobile fire.

4/6, disobeying an emergency order, 3607 East Bay Drive. Officers responded to a vacationer who rented a unit against the Florida Governor’s emergency order. The renter and rental agent were fined and the renter had to leave.

4/7, disobeying an emergency order, 414 80th St. The renter and rental agent for property rented April 5 were cited for disobeying the Florida Governor’s emergency order and the renter had to leave.

4/7, driving with a suspended license, 3900 East Bay Drive. The license plate reader alerted the officer to a driver whose license was suspended. He was given a citation and had to find a ride home.

4/8, violating the ban on camping, 4000 Gulf Drive. At 11:50 p.m., the officer on patrol encounter a naked male and female walking amid the picnic tables.

They told him they were walking across the country and planned on sleeping at the beach. He told them about the ban on sleeping at the beach and gave them citations to appear fully clothed before a judge.

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FUN IN THE SUN

Across 1 Activist Parks 5 First bird to attack in "The Birds" 9 "ÂżQuĂŠ __?"

13 Overly neat, say 14 Irish New Ager 15 Deep sleep 16 Amazon founder 18 2001 bankruptcy headliner 19 Corn serving 20 Very focused, as an athlete 22 "Of course!"

24 Some dadaist art 26 Voices one's view 27 Scolds 29 Clear dirty dishes from 30 HS promgoers 31 Tops of waves 32 Small batteries 33 Pleasing to look at ... or a phonetic hint to a twoletter sequence in 16-, 20-, 51- and 56-Across 39 Bash into 40 Rapscallions 42 Soak (up), as gravy 45 Halves of qts.

46 Look over again 47 Like Goldilocks' first bowl of porridge 49 Send to the canvas 50 Code-breaking org.

51 Expatriate American poet arrested for treason in 1945 53 Tiresome grind 55 Had a smoke 56 Aztec emperor 60 One-eyed "Futurama" character

61 Earnest request 62 Dog food brand 63 LAX landing list 64 Some 35mm cameras 65 Open-handed hit Down 1 Koothrappali on "The Big Bang Theory" 2 Common bill 3 Low-crime part of town 4 __ Romeo: sports car 5 "Gosh!"

6 Opens, as a parka 7 Rhone cathedral city 8 At the back of the pack 9 Swindler with a scheme named for him 10 Cooks' wear 11 Earlier 12 "Gunsmoke" actor James 15 Leaks slowly 17 Like an overtired child, perhaps 21 One may be hidden under a welcome mat 22 "Grey's Anatomy" network

Answers to 04-08-20 Crossword Puzzle.

23 "__ goes nothing!"

25 Fall back on 28 Beast of burden 29 Scroogean scoff 32 20s dispenser 34 "Old Town Road" rapper Lil __ X 35 Cry after a stunning performance 36 Slangy assent 37 Happening later 38 Moments, briefly 41 Caribbean music 42 __ Artois: Belgian beer 43 More slimy 44 Stout relative 45 Dad 46 Original "SNL" cast member Gilda 48 Lugs 49 Small hill 52 Baseball's "men in blue" 54 Guns from Israel 57 Univ. aides 58 UFC fighting style 59 Egyptian snake

APRIL 15, 2020

APRIL 15, 2020

CLASSIFIED

ANNOUNCEMENTS

COMPUTER SERVICES

SENIOR WIFE & HUSBAND available to house sit on ANNA MARIA ISLAND. Call 314277-2888

EMPIRE COMPUTER SERVICE Computer problems fixed in your home or office. The fastest friendliest service around.

Serving the Island since 2004. Call 941-739-6424

THE BEST VOLUNTEER position on the island. The AMI Historical Museum needs docents and bread makers. Call Lynn at 813758-3234 or lbrennan47@ gmail.com ROSER FOOD BANK needs donations of cash and nonperishable food, PAPER & PERSONAL HYGIENE PRODUCTS. Donations boxes are located at the Church, Moose Club, and Walgreen’s.

CARPET CLEANING QUALITY COUNTS. CARPET cleaning. Upholstery cleaning. Tile & grout cleaning. Island's favorite cleaner. Manatee Chamber Member. Great price/free estimates. Call 941-7561082 FAT CAT CARPET-TileUpholstery-Cleaning.

Commercial & Residential.

Call now for free preinspections 941-778-2882.

Serving the area for 20 years. Dries in hours not days!

CLEANING SERVICE THC CLEANING : Residential, Commercial & Rentals. Professional and Reliable. Call 941756-4570

COMMERCIAL SALES, RENT & LEASE ESTABLISHED RETAIL BUSINESS for sale on AMI. 250k plus inventory. Long term lease possible. $4200. a month plus low cam fees. Sharon Hightower RE/MAX Alliance Group 941-330-5054 Email to sharonsellsbeaches@ yahoo.com 13 UNIT RESORT: $3,999,900 Bradenton Beach on Gulf Dr. WAREHOUSE: 9300 sq ft possible Machine Shop w/ Heavy Duty Elect. Or Car Storage. So many Possibilities. Near SRQ Airport. $595,000. Island Real Estate call Alan Galletto 941-232-2216

Call us today! 941-778-3986

EMPLOYMENT THE AWARD-WINNING ANNA MARIA ISLAND SUN, a weekly newspaper on Florida’s Gulf Coast, (https:// amisun.com; www. facebook.com/ AnnaMariaIslandSun), 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 emailed to news@amisun.com or

by U.S. Postal Service to The Anna Maria Island Sun, P.O Box 1189, Anna Maria, FL 34216, attention: Mike Field, publisher.

FISHING CHARTERS CAPT. MAC GREGORY Fishing Charters. Full Day, Half Day, Night, Inshore & Near Shore. 941-809-5783 U.S.C.G. Certified/Insured

HOME IMPROVEMENTS TILE! TILE! TILE! All variations of tile supplied and installed.

Quality workmanship.

Prompt, reliable, many Island references. Free estimates. Neil 941726-3077 RENOVATION SPECALIST ALL carpentry repairs, Wash Family Construction, locally owned and operated CBC 1258250 Call 941-7250073.

KERN CONSTRUCTION NEW Homes & Remodel.

Design/Build. Since 1968. License # CRC1327296. Call Jerry Kern 941-778-1115 www. kernconstructioninc.com

GET’R DONE DRYWALL, INC Specializing in Remodels & Repairs. Island Resident for 18 years. Call Neil Cell 941-962-1194 LIGHTHOUSE PROPERTY INNOVATIONS LLC State Certified General Contractor (Lic. #CGC 1515821) New Construction, Renovations & Additions. Call 941-2667500 MASTER CARPENTER. Decks-Docks-FencingStairs & Railing. Free Estimates. Handyman Work. Call Richard 941448-3571 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.

HOME MAINTENANCE. Tile and Laminate installation.

Popcorn ceiling removal, Drywall repair, texturing and painting. Call 941-7259876 COASTAL INTERIORS Trim, paint, repairs and more 27yrs experience Local 786-318-8585

HOME SERVICES THE HARDWOOD STOP Flooring installation services; Laminate, hardwood, vinyl and tile.

Bathroom and shower.

Virtually dustless FLOOR REMOVAL License and insured FREE ESTIMATES 941-227-0041 www. thehardwoodstop.com GREEN INSTALLATIONS VOTED #1 by Yelp for last 3 years! Call 786-318-8585

LANDSCAPING & LAWN CARE R. GAROFALO’S Interlocking brick pavers, driveways, patios, pool decks. Free estimates. Licensed & Insured.

Call Rafael 941-778-4823 or Veronik 941-526-7941 STRAIGHT SHOT LANDSCAPE. Specializing in Old Florida Seashell driveways and scapes. Also Rock, Mulch, & Soil. Free estimates. Call Shark Mark 941-301-6067

THE SUN

LOST & FOUND LOST ON BEACH Beige Women’s Eye Glasses. $50 REWARD Call John 941705-6068

MOVING & STORAGE MARTIN’S MOVING YOUR Island movers!

Offering dependable, competitive rates. No hidden costs. 941-8095777.

PAINTING & WALLCOVERING PAINT! PAINT! AND MORE 28 years of experienced interior/exterior custom painting. Pressure cleaning, drywall repairs and texture finishes. Many Island references. Please call Neil for free estimates.

941-812-0507 “WIZARD OF WALLS. Established 1980 Prompt quality service.

Paperhanging/removal Faux finishes. Interior painting. Mary Bell Winegarden 941-7940455 PROFESSIONAL PAINTING SERVICES. Prompt & Reliable.

Island Resident. Quality Workmanship. Interior/ Exterior. Also minor repairs & carpentry.

Free written detailed estimates. Bill Witaszek 941-307-9315 CUSTOM PAINTING, Residential-Commercial, Interior/Exterior Professional quality work for over 40 years. Free estimates. Call Larry at 941-400-8754. References available.

DONALD PERKINS PAINTING LLC fully insured. 30 years experience. Many Island references. Call 941-7057096

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 AUTHORITY ONE CLEANING : Residential, Commercial, Construction and Vacation Rentals . Also available Pressure Washing, Roof Cleaning, Paver Sealing and Windows. Call 941-5653931.

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REAL ESTATE HOMES & CONDOS FOR SALE CANAL FRONT HOMES Holmes Beach – GULF FRONT CONDOS Gulf Place, L’Plage, Vista Grande, SPW, 5400 – DUPLEXES & MORE Island Real Estate ASK Alan Galletto 941232-2216 IMMACULATE WATERFRONT HOME 520 Kumquat Dr. 4BD/5BA 3928sf Coastal Beauty!

Prime location on AMI. $2,750,000 Call Charles Buky Coldwell Banker 941228-6086

AMISUN.COM

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CLASSIFIED

REAL ESTATE HOMES & CONDOS FOR SALE

REAL ESTATE: OPEN HOUSE

LOOKING FOR A highly motivated real estate broker to buy or sell your next home?

Darcie Duncan, Broker Duncan Real Estate a lifelong island resident bringing success to her customers for 28 years.

Proven track record brings you results! 941725-1589 MOBILE HOME in 55+ community 1975 Fully furnished, excellent rental history, 1BR/1BA, 50 steps from beach. $72,500. Call 813-679-3561 2BR/2BA GULF FRONT Condo. Fabulous view rarely on the mkt.! Sun Plaza West. $749,000 COMPLETELY REMODELED gorgeous condo with Peek of Gulf. $600,000 firm.

RIVER DISTRICT Homes Bradenton. $300,000 start ! Very cool historical area. PERICO ISLAND Patio Home. private pool. Close to AMI! $369,000 Brenda Boyd May Broker/ owner Boyd Realty LLC. 941-730-8589 www. boydrealty.com

Call us today! 941-778-3986

OPEN HOUSE SUNDAY April 19 1pm-4pm. 7920 4th Ave W. Bradenton.

Pine Bay Forest Condo.

Gorgeous 1300 sq.ft.

2BR/2BA Condo.

Completely remodeled.

Beautiful coastal glam style with vinyl plank floors. Recessed lighting.

Brand New Kitchen.

Custom Touches like barn wood slider doors. MOVE RIGHT IN. $225,000 Call 941-7136531

RENTALS: ANNUAL HOLMES BEACH, elevated nice 2BR/2BA duplex a block to the beach. Updated kitchen with washer and dryer included, all tile floors, large carport and storage area, nice front deck to enjoy the sunsets. $1,800/mo. immediate occupancy, non smoking. Call Paige Rogers 513-382-1992 paige@teamduncan.com Duncan Real Estate

AMISUN.COM

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 941-779-0304 www. teamduncan.com 2BR/1BA GROUND LEVEL condo in Bradenton Beach. $1400/mo. 1st, last, and security. $150 application fee which requires HOA approval. 2BR/2BA FURNISHED gulf-front 8 month lease starting May 1, 2020 $2750/mo. Call A Paradise 941-778-4800 WARES CREEK AREA. 3BR/2BA on Wares Creek $1750/mo Available NOW. First, & 1 ½ security deposit. Credit check required. Call 941-8092488 HOLMES BEACH DUPLEX 2BR/1BA 2 blocks to beach. Washer/Dryer hook ups, I Year lease. $1300/ mo First, 1 &1/2 months security deposit. Available April 15. Credit check required. Call 941-8092488

APRIL 15, 2020

ANNUAL RENTAL BUGALOW with mini-loft.

Vaulted ceilings. Utilities included, Washer/Dryer.

Steps to Beach. Pets considered. $1395/mo.

First, Last & Security. Call 941-741-1096 ANNUAL RENTALHOLMES BEACH 1BR/1BA 2 blocks to beach. Nice back yard. $1,200/mo. No pets.

Contact Fran Maxon Real Estate 941-778-2307 for details.

ANNUAL RENTALS IN HOLMES BEACH- 1BR/1BA, $950/mo. Ground floor, part of a triplex, 2 blocks to the beach, no dogs, no washer/dryer hookups. 1st, last and sec dep, $45 app fee. Contact Dolores Baker Real Estate 941-778-7500 for more details.

ANNUAL 2BR/2BA furnished or unfurnished all updated available now Call 551-427-0248 ANNUAL 2BR/2BA duplex off Cortez, 3.5 mi to beach.

Fenced yard, W/D hook ups, covered parking, non-smoking, pet friendly. $1,100/mo. 941-721-8480 M-F 9-5, or email mehall@ nclaimsadjusters.com

BIG POOL, SMALL COMPLEX. 1BR Condo.

One block to Beach.

Water, Electric, Cable, Wifi included. Beautifully furnished $1550/mo. No pets. Call 941-704-7525

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 LAST MINUTE CANCELLATION Bradenton Beach available NOW 2BR/2BA all updated monthly. Call 551427-0248. 04/01/201/31/2021

ROOMMATE WANTED WANTED MATURE FEMALE roommate 3BR/2BA condo overlooking water. Near Anna Maria Island. $800/ mo. Non smoker/no pets.

Call or text Lisa 704-4916977

TRANSPORTATION AMI TAXI metered-on-callcards accepted. Airport: Tampa $95, Sarasota $40, Clearwater $85, Orlando $165. Call 800-301-4816. amitaxi4u@gmail.com, www.amitaxi.com ANYTIME TRANSPORTATION to all Airports, Casino, etc.

Tampa $70. Sarasota $35. Pets welcome. Very dependable. Reasonable rates. Contact Jeanne.

941-779-5095 AIRPORT RIDES- Tampa, St. Pete, Sarasota. Reasonable rates! Call or text Anna 941-932-1600

www.amisun.com

APRIL 15, 2020

BUSINESS & SERVICE DIRECTORY COMPUTER SERVICE

HOME IMPROVEMENT

HOME IMPROVEMENT

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31

Call today to place your ad: 941-778-3986 HOME SITTING / PET SITTING

PAINTING

HOME SERVICES TRANSPORTATION

32

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APRIL 15, 2020

the Team Duncan Difference!

Darcie Duncan Broker - Owner

Cindy Jones Sales Associate

Michelle Laade Sales Associate

Dee Munn Broker Associate

Katie Self Sales Associate

Paige Rogers Sales Associate

Martha Jones Sales Associate

April Green Sales Associate

Pat Short Sales Associate

Robyn Hawk Joey Hutchinson Sales Associate Sales Associate

✔ Local-Area Expertise ✔ Outstanding Customer Service ✔ Experienced Professionals ✔ Proven Performance

310 Pine Avenue Anna Maria, FL 34216

TeamDuncan.com

941.779.0304