Anna Maria Island Sun April 27, 2022

- Named Best Florida Newspaper In Its Class -

VOL 22 No. 29

April 27, 2022

Holmes Beach property owners are at odds over the use of a 78th Street beach access path.

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

Neighbors clash over beach access path BOB ALEXANDER | SUN

HOLMES BEACH – A battle is brewing on 78th Street between a beachfront property owner and neighbors insisting on using a longstanding beach access.

The owners of the beachfront home at 101 78th St., Bryce Raub and Travis Resmond, blocked off public access to a beach path that runs along the edge of their property in mid-April, without notice to neighboring property owners, neighbors say. The two have owned the property since 2014, according to Manatee County Property Appraiser’s records.

The act caused an uproar with neighbors who say they have used the path to access the Gulf of Mexico for years without an issue.

In an email to Mayor Judy Titsworth, Raub said he’d been informed by surveyor James Clements, whom he hired in March, that there is no public beach access between his property and the adjacent lots.

Although there was an easement on the property previously, Titsworth said that even if the easement still existed, issues with the language wouldn’t grant the public use of the path for beach access.

Signs posted at the end of 78th Street in Holmes Beach block a path to the beach that was previously open to the public.

SEE ACCESS, PAGE 5

Mote Marine off the hook – for now The project will include live marine exhibits originally proposed by Mote, then later withdrawn.

BY JOE HENDRICKS SUN CORRESPONDENT | jhendricks@amisun.com

ANNA MARIA – Mote Marine Laboratory now has until March 1, 2023, to complete its installation of the Anna Maria City Pier Marine Education Outreach Center.

While the project will be a year late, it will include live marine exhibits withdrawn from the original plan.

During a special meeting on April 22, the Anna Maria City Commission voted 4-1 in favor of granting Mote Marine an extension of the original 180-day interior buildout and exhibit

INSIDE NEWS LETTERS OUTDOORS RESTAURANTS OBITS SPORTS CLASSIFIEDS

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installation timeframe. Mote and the city agreed to the six-month deadline in late September when the two parties entered into a rent-free, five-year lease agreement for Mote’s use of the larger of the two city-owned buildings at the T-end of the City Pier. The smaller pier building is occupied by the City Pier Grill & Bait Shop.

Commissioner Mark Short opposed the 11-month extension, which must still be formalized by an amended lease agreement to be approved by Mote and the commission at a future meeting.

Because he was recently exposed to someone who tested positive for COVID-19, Short participated in Friday’s meeting remotely as a precautionary measure.

When the original lease agreement

Anna Maria Island, Florida

FDEP received multiple complaints about the recent mangrove trimming at the Aqua property being developed by Medallion Home.

BY JOE HENDRICKS SUN CORRESPONDENT | jhendricks@amisun.com

MANATEE COUNTY – The Florida Department of Environmental Protection (FDEP) is investigating complaints about mangrove trimming along the Aqua development’s shoreline.

Formerly known as Long Bar Pointe and Aqua by the Bay, the Aqua property is located in unincorporated Manatee County between El Conquistador Parkway and Sarasota Bay.

The Aqua property is owned by Carlos Beruff’s Cargor Partners VIII/ Long Bar Pointe LLLP and is being developed by Beruff’s Medallion Home development company.

On April 19, FDEP Press Secretary Alexandra Kuchta provided The Sun with the following email response regarding the mangrove trimming complaints the agency received.

“The Florida Department of Environmental Protection is investigating reports of mangrove trimming waterward of Aqua by The Bay. For context, these mangroves are managed by Long Bar Pointe, LLLP. Long Bar Pointe is a permitted mitigation bank and has an approved mangrove trimming plan. Since the property is privately owned, SEE AQUA, PAGE 18

SEE MOTE, PAGE 9

forward in the new norm. In Food & Wine. 23 PUSHING

FDEP investigating Aqua’s mangrove trimming

FILL IN a beach hole and save a

turtle. 3 ISLAND PLAYERS season

finale opens May 5. 15 The Island’s award-winning weekly newspaper www.amisun.com

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“Food may not be the answer t0 world peace, but it’s a start.”

- Anthony bourdain

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APRIL 27, 2022

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APRIL 27, 2022

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Fill in a hole and save a baby sea turtle Filling in holes dug on the beach could mean the difference between life and death for baby sea turtles as nesting season begins.

BY JASON SCHAFFER SUN CORRESPONDENT | jschaffer@amisun.com

ANNA MARIA ISLAND - As sea turtle nesting season begins May 1, it’s important to understand why certain rules, regulations and suggestions are critical to the survival of the baby turtles, not only when their eggs lay beneath the sand but also when they hatch and make the difficult journey to the Gulf.

Some of the biggest obstacles facing the newly hatched turtles are holes, dug by beachgoers, that are not filled in at the end of the day.

According to Anna Maria Island Turtle Watch and Shorebird Monitoring (AMITW), five species of sea turtles swim and feed around Anna Maria Island, the most common being the Loggerhead. The turtles play a vital role in the ecosystem along the coast of AMI and the health of the shoreline. They feast on jellyfish, transport important

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Trash and holes left behind by careless beachgoers in Holmes Beach. nutrients and serve many other functions that stabilize the shoreline.

“As sea turtle populations decline, so does their ability to perform vital roles in maintaining the health of the Gulf of Mexico,” Turtle Watch said on its website. “Death and injury in commercial fisheries, loss of important habitat, pollution and climate change

are among the many human-caused threats pushing sea turtles towards extinction.”

As the beaches continue to get more crowded, trash and holes left behind by children innocently playing in the sand are more of a threat than ever.

Turtle Watch volunteers post signs at known turtle nests, but these do not cover

even half of the actual nests that will be on the beaches of AMI during the season, which runs through the end of October.

When a nest hatches the baby turtles instinctively begin to crawl towards the ambient light produced by the Gulf. Unfortunately, many of these young turtles will never make it to adulthood due to predators, who find them easy prey, and to disorientation from beachfront lights leading them away from the water.

Adding obstacles such as holes they cannot crawl out of or trash they can become entangled in, further lowers the odds of the baby turtles’ survival.

Larger holes can even entrap a mother turtle before she nests or become such an obstacle that she returns to the Gulf without laying her eggs.

Simply filling in a hole can help protect the ecosystem of the Island and assure that these important animals remain a part of this Island paradise. There are books about sea turtles available at most Island gift shops as well. These can be a great way to educate young children about why turtles need the holes filled in and can become a teachable moment allowing children to form a bond with the Island and the flora and fauna that call it home.

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THE SUN

ISLAND NEWS

IN BRIEF

Sentencing hearing scheduled in felony hit-and-run

Holmes Beach resident Cierra Shannon, 28, who plead no contest to the felony charge of leaving the scene of an accident with a death on April 11, is scheduled for a sentencing hearing in front of Manatee Circuit Court Judge Lon Arend on June 20. An acknowledgment and waiver of Shannon rights signed by Shannon on April 11 states that the maximum penalty could be as severe as 30 years in prison or a potential minimum sentence of 4 years behind bars. Shannon was charged in the Feb. 10, 2021, accident that killed pedestrian Madelyn Dakin, 83, of Michigan. Though not in law enforcement custody, Shannon is not allowed to leave the state of Florida while awaiting sentencing in the case.

Get prepared for hurricane season Manatee County Emergency Management will present the second annual Hurricane Preparedness Expo on May 17 from 4 p.m. to 7 p.m. at the Bradenton Area Convention Center, 1 Haben Blvd., Palmetto. This is a family friendly event where visitors can learn about insurance, evacuation levels and procedures and much more about what to do when hurricanes approach. Hurricane season officially lasts from June 1 to Nov. 30. There will be vendors, an emergency vehicle showcase, door prizes and giveaways. For more information on this free event, call 941-749-3507.

Arbor Day planting scheduled City leaders in Holmes Beach will be celebrating National Arbor Day with the planting of a cabbage palm tree. The celebration begins at 8:30 a.m. at the 34th Street pocket park located at 3400 6th Ave. The public is welcome to attend and view the new addition to the park.

Business card exchange at AMI Historical Society The Anna Maria Island Chamber of Commerce will hold a business card exchange Thursday, Apr. 28 from 5 p.m. to 7 p.m. at the Anna Maria Island Historical Society, 402 Pine Ave. in Anna Maria. Bring your business cards and mingle with chamber members, and those who may be considering membership. The fee is $5 for members and $10 for future members.

The Pat Copeland scholarships will also be awarded at this event. The scholarship was named in honor of former Sun staffer Pat Copeland, who is a founder of the Historical Society and has been chairwoman of the scholarship committee since the organization began awarding one.

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APRIL 27, 2022

Locals go crazy for crawfish

The Center of Anna Maria Island was ringing with the sounds of Louisiana on April 23 as participants gathered on the lawn for the sold-out Cajun Crawfish Boil.

The event was sponsored by Christine Major-Hicks, who had fresh crawfish brought in all the way from Louisiana for the event.

Along with the crawfish, served as a traditional Low Country boil, the menu featured chicken and sausage gumbo, red beans and rice and bourbon bread pudding all from the Ragin’ Cajun out of Lafayette, Louisiana. Music was provided by The Stockton Brothers.

All proceeds from the Cajun Crawfish Boil go to help fund The Center’s senior programs and environmental initiatives.

KRISTIN SWAIN | SUN

The big draw of the sold-out event was the fresh crawfish brought in from Louisiana and served as a Low Country boil. The Stockton Brothers took to the stage to play all of the crowd’s favorite tunes.

Treehouse case put on hold

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

The case of the city of Holmes Beach versus tree house owners Richard Hazen and Lynn Tran is on hold, at least for the time being.

In a March 21 ruling, Manatee County Circuit Court Judge Edward Nicholas stayed the case through Aug. 31. The ruling will allow both parties to comply with a March 8 case management order requiring each to enter briefings with the court.

In this case, city representatives are suing Tran and Hazen for injunctive relief to have a 2013 Holmes Beach Code Enforcement Board ruling enforced.

Under the ruling, the couple would have to bring their property, known as Angelinos Sea Lodge, into compliance with city building codes and pay more than $123,300 in code fines as of April 22, 2022.

To bring the property into compliance, the two-story beachfront treehouse, a non-habitable structure, would have to be torn down.

The continuing $50 fine, assigned by the city’s special magistrate in May 2016, was backdated to July 22, 2015, more than 2,400 days ago as of press time for The Sun. While city leaders, through their attorney Randy

FILE PHOTO

The beachfront treehouse belonging to Richard Hazen and Lynn Tran in Holmes Beach is back in the news.

Mora, filed to have the matter go to trial on Feb. 1, Tran and Hazen’s attorney, David Levin, filed an objection on Feb. 16 stating that the case isn’t ready to go to trial because of another pending case in Manatee County circuit court. That case concerns whether or not a section of the city’s land development code named in the code enforcement order violates the couple’s constitutional rights.

That case is set for a Sept. 28 hearing before Nicholas.

APRIL 27, 2022

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ACCESS: Neighbors clash over beach access path FROM PAGE 1

In an April 22 talk with The Sun, Titsworth said she’d had city attorney Erica Augello look into the possibility of a public access path across the private property and had bad news for 78th Street residents. While an easement was noted as existing on the property in records before 2014, it is not listed on the current deed for the property at 101 78th St. In addition to the disappearance of the easement note on the deed and the fact that there are no easement documents recorded, Titsworth said the easement noted on prior documents was for a nonexclusive easement.

The problem with easements, she said, is that they have to state who the easement benefits. In this case, the easement didn’t state that it benefited the public.

With the property owners not blocking their neighbors from accessing the beach, just blocking the one path to the beach, Titsworth said she’s unsure of how a legal challenge would play out for neighbors. And since the dispute concerns private property, she said there’s very little the city can do, despite being contacted

GOOGLE MAPS

Public access to the path entrance circled in yellow at the end of 78th Street is now blocked. by neighbors and Manatee County Commissioner Kevin Van Ostenbridge to urge city leaders to take action.

The mayor said she instructed city staff to put up a sign at the closed path noting that no beach access is allowed.

A Holmes Beach police officer also was stationed at the end of the street on the weekend of April 22-24 to prevent public access to the path.

If the matter is resolved in the neighbors’ favor, Titsworth said she’d

be happy to have the sign placed by city staff removed. Other signs at the path, including ones advising against trespassing, were not installed by city staff.

Neighbors of the beachfront property argue that not only should the easement on the property recorded in earlier deeds give them a right to use the path but that they should also have a right to use it due to the number of years it has been used for beach access.

In addition to writing to city and county leaders, some 78th Street residents have taken to social media to express their frustration with the issue.

Hilary Dravis posted on social media about her father, Vinny, who lived on 78th Street for more than 40 years and used the path to access the beach daily. She said he even purchased a bench from the city to place at the end of the path on the beach for others to enjoy. Dravis said her father would be saddened to see the path closed to the public.

No resolution to the beach access debacle was reached as of press time for The Sun.

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THE SUN

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 Publishers Mike Field Maggie Field Editor/CEO Mike Field Layout Ricardo Fonseca Reporters Cindy Lane Joe Hendricks Kristin Swain Jason Schaffer 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 Leslie Ketchum Distribution Bob Alexander Tony McNulty Connor Field Contributors Tom Vaught Steve Borggren Monica Simpson

LETTERS TO THE EDITOR

78th Street beach access concerns I was very disappointed to hear that some property owners along the Gulf of Mexico have put signs up banning residents and public access to the beach. I have been an Anna Maria Island resident since 1969 and have used that street over my many years out here.

From what I understand, the

78th Street property was sold with an easement in the original deed and sales after that deed was not included. I hope people look into this. I do realize that we have many people coming to the Island now that are very wealthy. You came to this Island because you loved this area and its character.

I’m very disappointed that now that you have moved here, you’re closing off something that we’ve had a right to access since way before I arrived here.

The Holmes family sold this

property with the easements in good faith, as they were the developers of the Island many, many years ago. The intent was always to allow public access to the beach. Beach renourishment calculations also figure into public access. I am respectfully asking the property owners to reconsider not allowing the 10-foot easement that was originally attached to the deed be reactivated.

Carol Whitmore Holmes Beach Resident

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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APRIL 27, 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.

April 28, 6 p.m. – City Commission meeting May 18, 10 a.m. – Special Magistrate hearing

BRADENTON BEACH

ISLAND-WIDE

May 3, 4 p.m. – Manatee County Council of Governments meeting, Longboat Key room, Bradenton Area Convention Center, One Haben Blvd., Palmetto May 9, 2 p.m. – Island Transportation Planning Organization meeting, Holmes Beach City Hall May 17, 6 p.m. – West Manatee Fire Rescue board meeting, administration building, 701 63rd St. W., Bradenton

107 GULF DRIVE N. FOR INFORMATION, CALL 941-778-1005

MARK YOUR CALENDAR

Please visit www. cityofbradentonbeach.com or contact city hall for more information.

April 27, 1 p.m. – Planning and Zoning board meeting May 4, 9:30 a.m. – Community Redevelopment Agency meeting May 4, 2 p.m. – Scenic WAVES meeting May 5, 6 p.m. – City Commission meeting May 18, 1 p.m. – Planning and Zoning board meeting May 19, noon – City Commission meeting

WEDNESDAY, APRIL 27

HOLMES BEACH

5801 MARINA DRIVE FOR INFORMATION, CALL 941-708-5800

Please visit www.holmesbeachfl. org or contact city hall for more information.

April 28, 11:30 a.m. – Police officers’ pension board meeting May 4, 10 a.m. – Parks and Beautification Committee meeting May 4, 5 p.m. – Planning Commission meeting May 10, 5 p.m. – City Commission meeting with work session to follow May 11, 10 a.m. – Clean Water AdHoc Committee meeting

Beach market, Coquina Beach, 2650 Gulf Drive S., Bradenton Beach, 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.

Tortoise Talk, Robinson Preserve, 1704 99th St. N.W., Bradenton, 3:30 p.m.

THURSDAY, APRIL 28

RoserRobics, Roser Church, 512 Pine Ave., Anna Maria, 9:30 a.m., no cost but donations welcome.

Seaside Quilters, Island Branch Library, 5701 Marina Drive, Holmes Beach, 10 a.m. Reserve online manateelibrary.libcal.com/ event/8486587 Green Explorers: Maze of Life, Manatee Beach, 4000 Gulf Drive, Holmes Beach, 10 a.m.

Sunshine Stitchers knit and crochet, Island Branch Library, 5701 Marina Drive, Holmes Beach, 2 p.m. Reserve online www.manateelibrary.libcal.com/ event/8511523 Thursdays in Paradise Stroll featuring local art, music and food, Bridge Street, Bradenton Beach, 5-8 p.m.

Anna Maria Island Chamber of

Commerce Business Card Exchange and Pat Copeland Scholarship presentation, Anna Maria Island Historical Society, 402 Pine Ave., Anna Maria, 5 p.m., $5 for members or $10 for prospective members

FRIDAY, APRIL 29

Beach market, Coquina Beach, 2650 Gulf Drive S., Bradenton Beach, 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.

Forty Carrots, Island Branch Library, 5701 Marina Drive, Holmes Beach, 10 a.m. Reserve online manateelibrary.libcal.com/ event/8486862 Mahjong Club, experienced players, Island Branch Library, 5701 Marina Drive, Holmes Beach, 11:30 a.m. Reserve online www.manateelibrary.libcal.com/ event/8486625

SATURDAY, APRIL 30

Robinson Runners, Robinson Preserve, 1704 99th St. N.W., Bradenton, 8 a.m.

Saturday mornings at the NEST, Robinson Preserve Mosaic Nest, 840 Ninth Ave. N.W., Bradenton, 9 a.m. to noon

TUESDAY, MAY 3

Farmer’s market, City Pier Park, 103 N. Bay Blvd., Anna Maria, 8:30 a.m. to 2:30 p.m.

RoserRobics, Roser Church, 512 Pine Ave., Anna Maria, 9:30 a.m., no cost but donations are welcome.

Family story time, Island Branch Library, 5701 Marina Drive, Holmes Beach, 10 a.m. Register online manateelibrary.libcal.com/ event/8962198 Mahjong Club, beginners, Island Branch Library, 5701 Marina Drive,

THE SUN

Holmes Beach, 11:30 a.m. Reserve online www.manateelibrary.libcal. com/event/8962027 Tech Help, Island Branch Library, 5701 Marina Drive, Holmes Beach, 2-3:30 p.m.

WEDNESDAY, MAY 4

Beach market, Coquina Beach, 2650 Gulf Drive S., Bradenton Beach, 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.

Tortoise Talk, Robinson Preserve, 1704 99th St. N.W., Bradenton, 3:30 p.m.

THURSDAY, MAY 5

AMI Chamber of Commerce member breakfast, Anna Maria Island Beach Cafe, 4000 Gulf Drive, Holmes Beach, 7:30 a.m., $10 for members or $18 for prospective members. Reserve online amichamber.org RoserRobics, Roser Church, 512 Pine Ave., Anna Maria, 9:30 a.m., no cost but donations welcome.

Sunshine Stitchers knit and crochet, Island Branch Library, 5701 Marina Drive, Holmes Beach, 2 p.m. Register online manateelibrary.libcal.com/ event/8962010 Thursdays in Paradise Stroll featuring local art, music and food, Bridge Street, Bradenton Beach, 5-8 p.m.

FRIDAY, MAY 6

Beach market, Coquina Beach, 2650 Gulf Drive S., Bradenton Beach, 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.

Forty Carrots, Island Branch Library, 5701 Marina Drive, Holmes Beach, 10 a.m. Register online manateelibrary.libcal.com/ event/8962224 Mahjong Club – Experienced Players, Island Branch Library, 5701 Marina Drive, Holmes

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Beach, 11:30 a.m. Register online manateelibrary.libcal.com/ event/8962062

SATURDAY, MAY 7

Robinson Runners, Robinson Preserve, 1704 99th St. N.W., Bradenton, 8 a.m.

Saturday mornings at the NEST, Robinson Preserve Mosaic Nest, 840 Ninth Ave. N.W., Bradenton, 9 a.m. to noon.

Hands-on Habits, Florida Maritime Museum, 4415 119th St. W., Cortez, 10 a.m. to 1 p.m.

Drama, Visual Art and Movement with the Van Wezel, Island Branch Library, 5701 Marina Drive, Holmes Beach, 1:30-3 p.m.

Seeing Stars with The Bishop, Robinson Preserve, 1704 99th St. N.W., Bradenton, 7:30 p.m.

MONDAY, MAY 9

Sunset Tai Chi, Robinson Preserve, Mosaic Nest, 840 Ninth Ave. N.W., Bradenton, 6:30 p.m.

TUESDAY, MAY 10

Farmer’s market, City Pier Park, 103 N. Bay Blvd., Anna Maria, 8:30 a.m. to 2 p.m.

RoserRobics, Roser Church, 512 Pine Ave., Anna Maria, 9:30 a.m., no cost but donations welcome.

Family story time, Island Branch Library, 5701 Marina Drive, Holmes Beach, 10 a.m. Register online manateelibrary.libcal.com/ event/8962199 Mahjong for Beginners, Island Branch Library, 5701 Marina Drive, Holmes Beach, 11:30 a.m. Register online manateelibrary.libcal.com/ event/8962028

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APRIL 27, 2022

AMI Rotary members lend a helping hand ANNA MARIA ISLAND – Local Rotary Club members are reaching out a helping hand, all the way to Ukraine.

The club is helping to raise funds and supplies for refugees fleeing to Poland to escape the war in Ukraine. Through a Rotary-to-Rotary partnership, the organization’s AMI chapter, along with one in Punta Gorda, are helping to send funds to Czestochowa, Poland’s Rotary Club.

The funds are earmarked to provide food, clothing, personal goods, medical supplies and other items to Ukrainians in need.

In addition to raising funds for the cause, the local club also is holding a fundraiser concert June 12 at The Center of Anna Maria Island. While musical acts have yet to be announced, the concert is planned to take place from 4-8 p.m. The Center’s Director of Development and President-Elect of the AMI Rotary Club Jim McDaniel announced the event during an April 23 Cajun Crawfish Boil.

More details about the fundraising effort will be released in the coming weeks, however, anyone who would like to donate can go online to https://bit.ly/ amirotary_ukraine.

KRISTIN SWAIN | SUN

Left, restaurant owner Bob Slicker talks about the AMI Rotary Club members’ efforts to offer humanitarian relief to Ukrainian refugees through a Rotary-to-Rotary partnership.

Right, Rotary members collect raffle entries in support of the group’s Ukrainian relief efforts.

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APRIL 27, 2022

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MOTE: Off the hook - for now FROM PAGE 1

was signed in September, Mote Marine representative Kevin Cooper said he anticipated the outreach center opening in March. That March deadline passed without Mote submitting any detailed engineering plans for the interior buildout and exhibit installations.

When requesting the extension on Friday, Cooper said Mote’s architect, Barron Schimberg, committed to starting the formal design and engineering process on Aug. 18.

Schimberg previously engineered the City Pier for the city of Anna Maria.

Mayor Dan Murphy and the commission stipulated that once the design and engineering work begins on Aug. 18, Schimberg and Mote will have eight weeks to submit the finished plans for commission approval. If either design and engineering deadline is missed, the commission will consider terminating the project. Murphy noted the “drop-dead deadlines” will be formalized in the amended lease agreement.

CONCEPTUAL PLANS

During Friday’s meeting, the

MOTE MARINE | SUBMITTED

The marine educational outreach center’s live exhibits are to include a live touch tank, a mangrove exhibit and more. commission also reached majority consensus in support of the latest conceptual plans presented by Cooper.

The conceptual plans consist of five colored renderings of Mote’s latest proposed exhibits, including four live exhibits that will collectively use approximately 1,000 gallons of circulating seawater.

“The centerpiece is the invertebrate touch exhibit,” Cooper said. “What we’ve found in our experience is the best way to educate individuals about the importance of marine science,

MOTE MARINE | SUBMITTED

The invertebrate touch exhibit is to be the centerpiece of the marine educational outreach center.

conservation and preservation is to bring them closer to it – and you simply can’t get closer than having your hands in the water touching the species.

It’s fully interactive. The rest of the exhibits are visual.”

The conceptual rendering of the touch exhibit includes a horseshoe crab and starfish.

Cooper said the mangrove exhibit will feature a mangrove tree and live marine species inhabiting the mangrove’s submerged root system.

The grass flats exhibit will feature

marine species found near the City Pier, including Gulf killifish, mojarra, stone crab and more.

The fourth live exhibit will use live cameras and a hydrophone that provide real-time sights and sounds of the actual marine life and environment under the City Pier.

The interactive and educational exhibits will also include microscopes, a puzzle-like fish identification exhibit that allows youngsters to hone their SEE MOTE, PAGE 11

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THE SUN

Bradenton Beach observes Arbor Day The city of Bradenton Beach will celebrate National Arbor Day 2022 on Friday, April 29 beginning at 9:30 a.m. at City Park in Bradenton Beach.

Parking will be available across the street at Bradenton Beach City Hall, 107 Gulf Drive, Bradenton Beach.

Prior to the Arbor Day Observance at City Park, there will be a highway cleanup beginning at 8:30 a.m. in Bradenton Beach. Anyone interested in helping should meet at The Moose Lodge in Bradenton Beach by 8:15 a.m., where participants will receive assignments and any gear needed to help with the cleanup. All are welcome and volunteers are greatly appreciated.

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APRIL 27, 2022

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APRIL 27, 2022

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MOTE: Off the hook - for now FROM PAGE 9

motor skills; a “Draw Alive” virtual exhibit that allows visitors to create digital marine life images projected on a display screen and an exhibit that allows visitors to create textured rubbings of fish and other marine life, which they can take home free of charge.

“Our goal is informal marine science education. We don’t want this to be something where someone comes in and looks around for two minutes. The mix of the live and interactive exhibits turns into a timely experience where they can come in and spend an hour or two learning,” Cooper said.

Cooper said the outreach center would accommodate 24 people at a time according to the state fire code.

He said the outreach center would have up to three employees and/or volunteer docents present during school field trips and one or two staff members and/or volunteer docents present during normal operations.

COMMENTS AND FEEDBACK

Cooper said Mote Marine President and CEO Dr. Michael Crosby could not attend Friday’s meeting because he was visiting a Mote facility in the Florida Keys.

Cooper said he listened to a recording of the April 14 city commission discussion during which the mayor and commission expressed frustration with Mote’s ongoing delays.

During that meeting, Commissioner Deanie Sebring expressed her concerns about the revised exhibit plans Mote submitted in January.

The revised plans proposed all virtual exhibits and none of the live exhibits Crosby originally presented

MOTE MARINE | SUBMITTED

The grass flats exhibit will feature the type of marine life found near the City Pier. The marine educational outreach center will provide educational opportunities for visitors of all ages. in February and March of 2021 when the commission voted 4-1 to pursue the Mote outreach center.

The virtual exhibits were proposed in part due to concerns about the new pier being able to support the weight of the water-filled exhibit tanks.

Those weight-bearing concerns have since been alleviated by third-party structural engineers.

On April 14, Sebring also questioned whether the proposed virtual exhibits were meant to simply serve as advertisements for the new aquarium Mote plans to build in Sarasota.

When addressing that concern, Cooper said, “I heard a concern that Mote was transitioning this partnership into a way to promote our aquarium.

Nothing could be further from the truth. We are committed to operating and educating on this site free of charge. It’s much more likely that the Mote aquarium will support this

5346 Gulf Drive, Holmes Beach (941) 778-5788 | hurricanehanks.com

project rather than the other way around.”

Cooper also addressed the delayrelated frustrations expressed during the April 14 meeting.

“We share in that frustration. This process isn’t limited by Mote’s desires, determination or imagination. We’ve been limited largely by physics and third-party opinions, time frames and commitments. We’ve worked with four engineers and two architects. We’ve only been able to get one of those six committed to work on the project,” Cooper said.

During Friday’s meeting, Sebring was among those questioning Mote’s lack of progress.

“We’ve been sitting here for a year and no design has been done. I wonder what the heck has been going on?” she said.

She also noted many citizens have expressed similar anger and frustration

on social media.

During public input, Anna Maria resident and retired marine biology Scott McGregor said the Mote outreach center may be a good idea, but not in the city-owned building that he and others would rather see leased to a restaurant operator.

Anna Maria resident Dan Devine said, “It’s been a year and this is what we have so far? We basically have rough drafts here. Why do we think it will only take eight weeks?”

Before voting against the extension, Short said, “I am very frustrated with how this has played out. The lease was signed at the end of September. This is the design we got, which doesn’t look too dissimilar from the concept that was provided to us a year ago.

I understand certain things had to be done, but I’m really surprised the progress isn’t significantly further than where it is.”

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WMFR staff seeks RFP applicants The leadership at West Manatee Fire Rescue wants to conduct an independent performance review of the district’s staff. To do this, they need applicants to respond to a request for proposals.

The performance review audit will give the district a leg up on new requirements for fire districts in Florida. Chief Ben Rigney said other Manatee County fire districts are looking at the WMFR performance review audit RFP and are hoping to piggyback on the contract once an auditor is selected.

At an April 19 meeting, Commissioner Robert Bennett said a committee to review the RFP applications had been formed. The application period for the RFP is set to close at end of the day on June 2 with the committee making its selection to present to the district’s board members

by June 9. Commissioners are expected to approve or reject the committee’s selection during their June meeting.

The RFP can be viewed on the district’s website at www.wmfr.org.

Center hosts teen babysitting class Teens ages 11 to 17 are invited to come to The Center of Anna Maria Island on May 7 for a babysitting class.

During the class, which takes place from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m., teens will learn about starting a babysitting business, working with children and parents, child safety, caregiving and more. Participants also will be certified in CPR, AED and

first aid through the American Heart Association. All students are asked to bring their own lunches. The cost to attend is $85 for members or $100 for non-members of The Center including all certifications. Registration is required

by April 29. To register, call 941-778-1908 or visit The Center at 407 Magnolia Ave. in Anna Maria.

County seeks applicants for Construction Trades Board Manatee County is now accepting applications for four openings on the Construction Trades Board.

Two openings are for consumer representatives, and two others are for state-licensed contractors. The Board regulates state and local contractors and licensed local contractors within unincorporated Manatee County. It has the authority to discipline anyone who violates applicable local code, state statutes or Florida building code provisions on the activities of licensed contractors. This includes the authority to suspend and/or revoke licenses and impose monetary fines.

THE FOLLOWING BOARD POSITIONS ARE OPEN:

• General contractor (seat No. 1) • Commercial swimming pool contractor (seat No. 2) • Consumer representative (seat No. 5) • Consumer representative (seat No. 6) The group meets on the second and fourth Wednesdays of each month, as needed, at 3 p.m. in the Patricia M. Glass Chambers, 1112 Manatee Ave. W., Bradenton. Applications are due by June 1, 2022, and may be found online at www.mymanatee.org/ advisoryboards.

APRIL 27, 2022

APRIL 27, 2022

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THE SUN

13

JASON SCHAFFER | SUN

Chamber members and Cool Beans staff celebrate the grand opening with a ribbon-cutting ceremony.

Cool Beans ribbon-cutting

JASON SCHAFFER | SUN

Visitors enjoying the festivities at Cool Beans grand opening in Anna Maria.

JASON SCHAFFER | SUN

Happy customers at Cool Beans in Anna Maria.

Cool Beans Coffee Shop celebrated its grand opening with a ribbon-cutting ceremony on Wednesday, April 20.

Attendees enjoyed high-quality coffee, live music from Trevor Bystrom’s band, Beach Vibes, and celebrated being another proud member of the Anna Maria Island Chamber of Commerce. Cool Beans is at 101 S. Bay Blvd. Unit A-4, in Bayview Plaza shopping center in Anna Maria.

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APRIL 27, 2022

THE SUN

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Island Players season finale premiers May 5 The Island Players present ‘The Psychic,’ the fifth and final play of their historic 73rd season.

BY JASON SCHAFFER SUN CORRESPONDENT | jschaffer@amisun.com

ANNA MARIA - The Island Players' fifth production of their 73rd season is the hilarious whodunit “The Psychic,” written by Sam Bobrick, directed by James Thaggard and stage-managed by Denise Handley. This play debuts May 5, and runs through May 15, with shows Tuesday through Saturday.

Showtimes are 7:30 p.m. and matinees at 2 p.m. on Sundays.

Bobrick not only wrote “The Psychic” but also wrote for numerous television shows, such as The Andy Griffith Show, Bewitched, and Get Smart. Bobrick was also the author of more than 40 plays, including the comedy “Baggage,’’ which Thaggard directed at The Island Players in 2018.

No stranger to the Players, Thaggard marks his 20th production as a Players director with “The

JASON SCHAFFER | SUN

The Island Playhouse on the corner of Gulf Drive and Pine Avenue in Anna Maria presents "The Psychic."

Psychic,” also winning the Mystery Writers of America’s 2011 Edgar Award for Best Play.

The mystery-comedy “The Psychic” follows Adam Webster, who hangs a sign in his window offering discount psychic read-

2021

ings. Much to his surprise, the unemployed writer finds himself involved in a string of increasingly bizarre murders.

The cast includes newcomers William Ashburn as Adam and Michael Sacco as Johnny Bubbles.

Also featured are Island Players regulars Mark Shoemaker as Detective Coslow and three “Baggage” alumni - Jennifer Kwiatkowski as Laura Benson, Rick Kopp as Roy Benson, and Jennifer Caldwell as Rita Malone.

Tickets are $25 each and are available at the box office, open Monday through Saturday, 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. and one hour before each show. For more information, please see the website, www.theislandplayers.org or call the box office at 941 778-5755 during office hours.

The theater is at 10009 Gulf Drive, Anna Maria.

Masks are voluntary and hand sanitizer will be available. Additional parking is provided at CrossPointe Church, 8605 Gulf Drive. The AMI free trolley stops in front of the church and runs about every 20 minutes north toward the theater. Please allow extra time to find parking especially, for the Sunday matinees.

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COVID-19 IN MANATEE COUNTY

Apr. 18 Cases 228 % Positivity 6.09% Deaths < 10 % Eligible population vaccinated 64.6% New hospital admissions 8 Apr. 25 Cases 285 % Positivity 8.55% Deaths <10 % Eligible population vaccinated 64.8% New hospital admissions 10

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COVID-19 IN MANATEE COUNTY SCHOOLS

Apr. 18 Anna Maria Elementary - 0 staff, 0 students Manatee County - 0 staff, 0 students Total since first day of school (AME) - 2 staff, 25 students Total since first day of school (county) - 867 staff, 4,529 students Apr. 25 Anna Maria Elementary - 0 staff, 0 students Manatee County - 1 staff, 5 students Total since first day of school (AME) - 2 staff, 25 students Total since first day of school (county) - 869 staff, 4,540 students Source: CDC, Manatee County Schools

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AQUA: FDEP investigating Aqua’s mangrove trimming

FDEP CORRESPONDENCE

Kuchta’s email response included a copy of a letter FDEP Submerged Lands and Environmental Resources Coordination Program Administrator Timothy Rach sent to a Mr. Hoffman (first name not provided) on Oct. 2, 2019.

"The FMTP shall not allow any mangrove trimming below a height of 12 feet, as measured from the substrate, shall not allow for more than 30% of the total onsite mangrove acreage to be trimmed and shall not result in fragmentation of the remaining intact mangrove swamp into more than four individual fragments,” the letter states.

Kuchta also shared a link to the online Oculus portal that provides access to additional documents and email exchanges pertaining to Aqua’s mangrove trimming authorizations and activities.

AQUA ATTORNEY'S RESPONSE

JOE HENDRICKS | SUN

The taller mangroves to the left were not trimmed and provide a point of comparison for the Aqua mangroves that were recently trimmed.

On Feb. 22, FDEP Southwest District Compliance Coordinator Derrick Hudson emailed Medallion Home Vice President of Land Operations Robb Bosarge and notified him that FDEP received an email from a citizen concerned about the mangrove trimming at the Aqua property.

Hudson’s email noted the Long Bar Pointe mitigation bank permit requires the property owner or his representatives to provide FDEP with 48 hours advance notice before any mangrove trimming occurs. The permit also requires photographs to be taken and submitted to FDEP 14 days before the trimming activity begins and subsequent photographs taken and submitted within 14 days after the trimming activity occurs. The permit also requires a site visit by FDEP staff within 30 days of the trimming.

“Please provide the status and any additional information associated with this season’s trimming activity. In

JOE HENDRICKS | SUN

The Aqua community is being developed along El Conquistador Parkway.

FDEP | SUBMITTED

The FDEP graphic highlights some of Florida’s mangrove trimming regulations. addition we would like to schedule a site visit to assess the area,” Hudson said in his email to Bosarge.

The FDEP records posted online do not include an email response from Bosarge.

On March 8, Hudson emailed FDEP attorney Kirk White.

“We received a complaint regarding possible unauthorized mangrove trimming in the Long Bar Pointe mitigation bank. Is there any way you could reach out to their attorney and open communication and/or see if they have appropriate contact information for a representative?” Hudson’s email said.

On March 9, Hudson emailed White again.

“I would like to conduct a site visit.

Typically during this time of year, the mitigation bank conducts authorized mangrove trimming. However, I did not receive commencement notification as required by the permit,” Hudson wrote.

On March 11, White emailed attorney Doug Manson.

“Southwest District got a complaint about unauthorized mangrove trim-

19

to notify DEP, but they’re supposed to provide photos indicating existing conditions prior to trimming so they can compare what was there before trimming and what’s there after. It looks like they didn’t do that; and it looks like there’s been some very dramatic trimming, beyond what would be permitted in a mangrove mitigation bank permit or the general permit which would cover the mangroves at Long Bar Pointe (Aqua). I think there are likely to be violations of how and where they trimmed and then there’s the procedural violation which it seems like DEP has acknowledged in their email chain.”

FROM PAGE 1

permission for site access is required prior to inspecting the property and DEP has been working to obtain this. At this time, our investigation is active and ongoing.”

Suncoast Waterkeeper founder and board member Justin Bloom is among those monitoring the investigation.

“I’ve reviewed the file on the state’s Oculus site. There have been several complaints of unpermitted mangrove trimming,” Bloom said.

Bloom has also been in contact with FDEP attorney Kirk White.

When contacted Sunday afternoon, Bloom said, “I learned late Friday afternoon from Kirk that they finally have an agreement to obtain access to the property and they’re going to be doing an onsite investigation on Tuesday. I’m glad to see DEP is finally getting onsite. I hope they do a thorough investigation; and if there are violations, I hope they adequately enforce them.”

APRIL 27, 2022

ming at the Long Bar Pointe mitigation bank. Derrick has tried to contact Mike Campbell and Rob Borsarge to arrange a visit but has not heard back.

Any chance you could provide the OK for Derrick to get out at some point in the near future and check things out?”

White’s email said.

In his March 11 response, Manson said, “I am glad to help facilitate a site visit with Derrick.”

That site visit was not arranged until late last week.

On April 18, Hudson emailed a complaint timeline to FDEP Environmental Resources Program staff member Hannah Westervelt. According to the timeline, FDEP received an email from a concerned citizen on Feb. 15, an online complaint from Manatee County resident Karen Willey on Feb. 22 and an anonymous complaint on April 4.

“The emails reveal a couple things,” Bloom said. “Most significantly, it appears that there’s a violation of their mangrove mitigation bank permit.

That permit requires that they notify DEP prior to commencement of any trimming. Not only are they supposed

Edward Vogler II has long served as an attorney for Beruff and he represented Beruff and the development team during the lengthy Long Bar Pointe/Aqua by the Bay permitting process that dates back more than a decade.

Vogler was contacted by The Sun on Friday.

“The landowner/developer is aware of the complaints and has been in contact with the Florida Department of Environmental Protection and welcomes any type of investigation or inspection. All the work done in connection with mangrove trimming is done by certified mangrove trimming experts under the supervision of environmental consultants. They have the tools and the technology and they understand and follow the trimming rules and criteria. All work is done pursuant to proper permits. We welcome the investigation and I think it will be confirmed that everything was done properly,” Vogler said.

“There are general permits that allow mangrove trimming under certain conditions and circumstances and there are specific permits required for given circumstances. That property also has a permitted mitigation bank in which various other types of permits and authorizations were afforded to the property. I’m very confident that any trimming was done under one or more permits,” Vogler said.

He also referenced the previously trimmed mangroves along a portion of the adjacent shoreline of Legends Bay

by Medallion Home.

“Those mangroves are trimmed every year and multiple complaints have been made about that. People get upset when they see mangroves trimmed but that’s an authorized practice in the state of Florida and it’s routinely done. Those mangroves over there have been cut for 15 years,” Vogler said.

Regarding FDEP’s requests to inspect the Aqua mangroves, Vogler said, “I’m not aware of any request being denied or delayed.”

CITIZENS’ CONCERNS

Suncoast Waterkeeper Chairman

JOE HENDRICKS | SUN

The trimmed mangroves provide a better view of the bay from the multi-unit residential structures being built at the northwest end of the Aqua property. and The Sun's Outdoors Editor Rusty Chinnis is concerned about Aqua’s mangrove trimming.

On April 15, Chinnis said, “I was out fishing one day and noticed it so I called FDEP. The lady I talked to, Abigail McAleer, said someone reported it back in February but FDEP couldn’t go on the property without getting permission from the owners. I’m not accusing anybody of anything but it looks suspicious and it needs to be investigated.”

Chinnis referenced FDEP’s mangrove trimming guidelines and best management practices. According to that 2016 document, trimming mangroves that are over 24 feet tall requires a FDEP permit; and when trimming a mangrove tree that’s over 16 feet tall, no more than 25% of the tree can be removed per year.

“That first cutting they did looks like it’s about 50%,” Chinnis said.

According to the FDEP trimming guidelines, a first trimming violation may result in the property owner being required to restore the area. For subsequent violations, property owners and the person performing the illegal trimming can be fined up to $100 for each mangrove illegally trimmed and up to $250 for each mangrove illegally altered.

“I’m not against development. I was a building contractor for 35 years, but I’m also a fisherman and I appreciate the importance of the natural environment to the ecology and the economy,” Chinnis said.

The FDEP guidelines note mangroves stabilize the coastline, protect water quality, reduce coastal flooding, provide habitat for fish, protect young fish from predators, protect wildlife species, serve as bird nesting areas and contribute $7.6 billion annually to the economy while creating 109,000 jobs in Florida.

Karen Willey is the conservation chair for the Florida Native Plant Society’s Serenoa Chapter. In February she filed a complaint with FDEP after seeing an Aqua advertisement that Medallion Home ran in the Washington Post.

“From the photographs in the ad,

it appeared the mangroves had been trimmed and it looked questionable. I went to the FDEP website, filled out a complaint form and included a link to the ad. They called within a few days saying the mangroves appeared to be trimmed but they really couldn’t tell.

They said they would be following up,” Willey said.

“This came up in February. Why is it the middle of April and they’ve done nothing? This is a serious issue.

Mangroves are so important and we need to do everything we can to protect them. They should not be giving trimming permits on pristine mangrove forests like this. I think the time has come where we need to say no more mangrove trimming. Since the 1940s we have lost more than 50% of our mangroves on Sarasota Bay and we cannot afford to lose more,” Willey said.

On April 20, The Sun took a boat tour of the Aqua shoreline. A large swath of shoreline mangroves had been trimmed in front of the four-story, multi-unit residential buildings being built toward the northwest end of the Aqua property.

The trimmed mangroves now provide a clear view of the bay for many of those residential units. The trimmed mangroves appear to be between 8 and 10 feet tall and the remaining untrimmed mangroves on the Aqua property appear to be between 20 and 30 feet tall.

Another large swath of mangroves was trimmed to the same height in front of the single-family homes being built at the southeast end of the Aqua property.

The trimmed mangroves along the Aqua shoreline are about the same height as the trimmed mangroves along the Legends Bay shoreline.

FDEP’S SLOW RESPONSE

Bloom is also concerned about FDEP’s slow response time.

“It’s been several weeks. The first complaint was nearly a week before Karen Willey’s complaint. Someone made it to FDEP’s Southern District out of Fort Myers and it was relayed to the Southwest District in Temple Terrace that governs mangrove trimming in this

area,” Bloom said.

“DEP took a very long time to respond to the situation and the email chains show what appears to be excessive caution and delay in responding to citizens’ complaints. Now we’re in a situation where it looks like the deed is done. With their failure to notify DEP and provide photographs of preexisting conditions, I think it’s going to really complicate any investigation because there’s going to be a lack of evidence of how they trimmed,” Bloom said.

“DEP seemed to be absent and it begs the question as to whether DEP is up to the task of adequately regulating and enforcing mangrove trimming in Manatee County; and whether Manatee County should pick up the slack. Every coastal county surrounding Manatee County has their own mangrove program. Sarasota County has been running a mangrove program for the last three years, I think, and Hillsborough and Pinellas counties have longstanding mangrove programs.

“Manatee County’s been the holdout and I think they need to take a hard look at paying attention to and protecting the existing natural environmental infrastructure which includes the mangroves, dunes and seagrasses that are rapidly disappearing. Sarasota County has lost almost all of their natural shoreline.

Manatee County still has a lot, but we’ve just lost a significant amount at Long Bar Pointe (Aqua). What’s happening at Long Bar Pointe should focus the attention of the Manatee County Commission to recognize the need to pay more attention to our dwindling mangrove populations,” Bloom said.

“I will be bird-dogging DEP and try to be as up to date as possible on the investigation by reviewing their records and watching to ensure there’s a thorough investigation and appropriate enforcement. We don’t know what the violations have been, but the maximum fines for violations seem wholly inadequate considering the value that mangroves have to our estuary and our community,” Bloom said.

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THE SUN

OUTDOORS

Looking back, paying forward Reel Time RUSTY CHINNIS

O

ne of the things I like most about fishing is the friends we make along the way and the many experiences that last a lifetime. When we can combine that with sharing the passion and paying it forward, then the experience is even more rewarding.

I first met David Schulhofer 12 years ago when I took him and his grandfather, Bob Seeger (not the musician), fishing in December of 2010. Seeger and his wife, Judy, lived in the Village on Longboat Key until 2011 when they moved to Blue Ridge, Georgia in the northeast Georgia mountains. That day, just two weeks short of his fourth birthday, David caught his first fish, a trout. Although the details were lost to me until I reread the article I wrote about it, they were burned into the memory of Seeger, or Bobo, as he’s called by David.

Seeger and I fish regularly when my wife Chris and I vacation in Sautee Nacoochee, about an hour’s drive southeast of Blue Ridge. For the past few years, Seeger has mentioned that David has become a passionate angler, and we made plans to take him trout fishing. COVID-19 derailed our plans for a few years but this past week we had the opportunity to make it happen. Through a series of unintended consequences (fortunate ones I might add), we booked a day at the Brigadoon Lodge on the Soque River near Sautee.

RUSTY CHINNIS | SUN

Right, David Schulhofer, 16, shows off his catch.

We met our guide, Zack Chapman, at 8:30 that morning at Brigadoon, one of the few destinations on the Soque I hadn’t fished. When I first got there and realized what a special place it was, I commented that I couldn’t believe that I hadn’t fished there in all the years before. On second thought, I was glad to discover and have a new special place to share with everyone. After quick introductions, Chapman set everyone up with waders and tackle and led us on a sensuous path along one of the prettiest sections of river I have ever experienced.

SEE REEL TIME, PAGE 21

APRIL 27, 2022

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APRIL 27, 2022

THE SUN

21

CAPTAIN DAVE WHITE | SUBMITTED

Kyle Sprague, and his father, Doug, show off a blackfin tuna and a red grouper caught with Captain Dave White of Anna Maria Charters.

Spring brings good inshore action despite winds CAPTAIN DAVE WHITE

Spring is starting to ramp up fishing around our little island.

Although the winds have been quite relentless, we here at Anna Maria Charters are making the most of it, both inshore and offshore. We’re catching snook, redfish, trout, Spanish

mackerel, kingfish, and sharks on our inshore trips. Shiners are pretty plentiful right now for bait, so everything seems to be cooperating nicely.

Offshore, things are starting to get pretty good. Big yellowtail snapper and blackfin tuna are moving in with the warmer

water temperatures, along with mangrove snapper, African pompano and the ever-present red grouper. It’s been nice to get out there on flat days. Hopefully, the winds lie down soon and we can spend some time out there.

REEL TIME: Looking back, paying forward FROM PAGE 20

As Seeger and I watched and listened, Chapman took David to the edge of the river near a deep clear run and explained the nuances of making an effective cast, how to create a drag-free float, and the best way to set the hook. I was impressed with the instruction, David’s attentiveness, and especially how quickly he put the new lessons into practice.

The morning light on the river was mesmerizing and although the conditions seemed perfect, the fish were not responding to the flies that Chapman had David present.

I know from experience that even waters rich in trout can prove challenging when they are not feeding. I watched as our guide constantly changed patterns to find one that might tempt the fish he knew lurked in the pools, runs

and riffles we fished that morning.

David was persistent and worked diligently, managing to hook one fish and catch one other during the morning session. Hoping that the afternoon might prove more productive, we stopped for lunch at the lodge before heading back to the river in the early afternoon.

That afternoon the fish began to feed, and the persistence that David exhibited during the morning began to pay dividends.

The excitement was infectious as beautiful rainbow trout from 16 to 24 inches were fought and netted in the upper section of the river above the lodge. By the time we stopped fishing that afternoon, Chapman had netted over a dozen large trout that David hooked, fought and landed. I was impressed with how he listened attentively to Chapman and how his casting

improved. I commented to Seeger, in jest but fully in earnest, that it wouldn’t be long before he was a better caster than I am.

The day was a treat for everyone and particularly for me. It brought back memories of all the mentors that I had over the years starting with my dad who took me fishing when I was 5 years old. I’ve written many times about the importance of taking kids fishing, but this day was special, being able to reconnect with a young man who had caught his first fish on my boat over a decade ago. Revisiting that day through Seeger’s eyes and seeing the passion that it had created in David only redoubles my desire to pay it forward. To all of those who showed me the importance of paying it forward, thank you David, Bob and Dad.

22

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Pushing forward in the new norm Joe Rimer PESTO BISTRO AND WINE BAR

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rying to navigate all the challenges of running a small restaurant was already difficult before the emergence of COVID-19. As we navigate what some are calling “the new normal,” smaller, privately-owned restaurants (as well as all small businesses, in general) are all under more pressure than at any time in recent history. After a couple of years of ups and downs with closing, opening at lowered capacities, and reduced patronage from fear of contagion, there are now a host of new challenges.

We now (both on a local and national level) deal with a severe lack of available and/ or qualified staffing, huge increases in the cost of our ingredients, supply chain issues that have affected almost every area of our operations, and not knowing how many guests we

Butternut Squash and Zucchini Bisque Ingredients

2 large butternut squash 2 large zucchinis 1 ounce EVOO (olive oil) 3 cloves fresh garlic, minced

will have tomorrow or next week because of the new dynamics from every new strain. As we try to navigate these new issues, we still have to handle all of the challenges that a restaurant has always had, from proper ordering to timely delivery of the product to our guests.

When you go out to dine, please know that every restaurant truly appreciates you supporting them. In most cases, the team taking care of you is probably working nights, weekends, and most holidays. This will never excuse poor service or poor food quality, which does, unfortunately, occur occasionally. Sometimes this is from an operation that has major systemic issues, but more often it is due to one or more of the aforementioned issues that we are facing. Regardless, when it happens, it has ruined or at least diminished your dining experience, and possibly your whole evening. That is not the restaurant’s intent, and it has been my observation that communicating the issue directly with the restaurant will usually get positive results.

With the increase in product costs 1 red onion, minced 8 ounces roux (separate recipe and directions) 1 quart fresh chicken stock (substitute canned chicken broth) 2 pints heavy cream 5 ounces honey 3 tablespoons salt 1 tablespoon white pepper

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Directions

Split, de-seed and then bake butternut squash in a 350-degree oven for 1 hour or until soft and scoopable. Cover with foil during baking and add a small amount of water to the pan. Let cool and then scoop and mash.

Wash and shred the zucchini In a large pot, heat olive oil and then sauté onion and garlic till translucent. Add butternut squash pulp, zucchini, chicken stock and heavy cream, bring to

restaurants that have been around for decades have recently closed or been sold to new owners.

Opening both Pesto Bistro and Wine Bar during COVID (September of 2020) and Fusilly’s Kitchen in December of 2021, we feel very fortunate that we have had continued support from our guests.

It is the repeat guests, the new friends that they bring, and all of their great comments, both on reviews and word of mouth, that have helped move us forward!

Please support your local, privately-owned restaurants (and small businesses) and remember that without your patronage they may not be there in the future.

Pesto Bistro and Wine Bar is a quaint Italian restaurant with French, and Mediterranean influences, opened by Joe and Lianne Rimer in 2020. It is located 3 miles east of Anna Maria Island on Cortez Road. Fusilly’s Kitchen is our newest restaurant venture featuring tableside preparations and is located in Historic Downtown Bradenton at 606 Manatee Ave. W.

a simmer and then add roux. Continue to simmer on low for half an hour, stirring occasionally. Add honey, salt and white pepper. Taste and then adjust to your preference with salt and honey.

Roux - melt 4 ounces of butter in a sauté pan, add all-purpose flour to the butter until it becomes the consistency of wet beach sand. Continue to cook on low heat, stirring for 5 minutes.

If you do not cook the roux long enough the soup or sauce that you use it for will be lumpy.

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THE SUN

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APRIL 27, 2022

7 Is Your Lucky Number

Live Music on our Patio

Anna Maria's Favorite Hang Out

APRIL 27, 2022

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THE SUN

SEA TURTLES ARE ON THEIR WAY! CELEBRATE THE TURTLES WITH US.

For the past 30+ years, a local group called the Anna Maria Island Turtle Watch (AMITW) has played an important role in the conservation of the sea turtles that swim and feed around the island. Sea turtles play vital roles in the health of the Gulf of Mexico and the shoreline of the island. The turtles transport nutrients, support other marine life, and help stabilize dunes. Their staff and volunteers work tirelessly from May through October to collect data and protect the turtles and their eggs. Through public education and cooperation, turtle numbers are slowly rebounding.

Public cooperation, especially from waterfront homes and businesses, is one key to these conservation measures. Locally our restaurants, the Sandbar in Anna Maria and the Beach House in Bradenton Beach take great pride in their efforts to support marine life.

From May through October, lightbulbs are replaced with low-wattage lighting.

Drapes are utilized at the restaurants to eliminate unnecessary lighting that may reach the shoreline. Signs are posted as a reminder to turn off the lights and regular trainings educate the staff about the importance of keeping the trash off the beach.

Recently, the Sandbar restaurant commissioned Lakeland, FL-based studio and mural artist Gillian Fazio to create a mural

featuring turtles and sea life. The mural is located near the street entrance on a commercial property that the restaurant owns.

Environmental and clean water initiatives are a part of the culture of the restaurant and the mural highlights some of the sea life and beautiful sunsets that the Sandbar and Beach House are so well known for with visitors.

Beach-goers can also do their part by not parking on sand that may contain turtle nests, cleaning up their trash when leaving the beach and filling in any holes created in the sand so that turtles don’t fall in and become trapped as they make their way to the water.

According to the AMITW website, “proactive conservation measures are needed to protect sea turtles and rebuild their populations to healthy levels so they can achieve the full extent of their historic roles. At historic levels, sea turtles will help restore the health of our Gulf of Mexico.”

The importance of sea turtles in the ecosystem: • • •

They help maintain balance food web They keep coral reefs healthy They keep seagrass beds healthy

Content provided by: The Chiles Group

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THE SUN

REAL ESTATE

APRIL 27, 2022

Does anyone know what’s going on?

I

recently spent a weekend with some good friends, all of whom were either involved in real estate sales or still are.

Naturally, there was a lot of conversation about soaring home values both here in Florida and on New York’s Long Island, where we are all from. The question kept coming up, what does everyone think about the future of the market? Not surprisingly, these four smart women with a combined 150 years of real estate experience didn’t have a clue and neither do the economists.

We’re starting to see signs around the country that the market may have peaked in some places. More properties are coming on the market, which could level off the appreciation rate. However, since all real estate is local, only looking at specific regions will tell the story, and we are going to look at Manatee County’s statistics for March.

But first, almost every homeowner in the country is sitting on what could be substantial equity in their homes. The definition of equity is the difference between

Castles in the Sand LOUISE BOLGER the market value of your property and the remaining mortgage debt against the property. There is something called tappable equity, which is the amount of equity homeowners can access while retaining at least 20% equity. Nevertheless, it can still be a lot of money, which begs the question: What should be done with all the equity?

Every homeowner’s situation is, of course, different. Less affluent borrowers may want to take out home equity loans against their equity to pay off higher-interest debt or to fund college tuition. But wealthier homeowners are frequently purchasing second homes to use for future retirement or investment opportunities.

If your decision is to sell and cash out, make sure you have a plan for where you’re going to live. Chances are, if you even find a property to purchase, it will be a much higher value than you anticipated, and rentals are also few and far between.

Now back to Manatee County statistics for the month of March as reported by the Realtor Association of Sarasota and Manatee.

Single-family home sales were down 20.2% from last March, but the good news is new listings are up 6.2%. However, values were way up - the median sale price broke another record of $525,000, up 32.9%, and the average was $703,385, up 31% from last March. The time to contract is five days and month’s supply of properties is 0.6 months.

Condo sales were down 39.9% but new listings are up 2.5%. The median sale price was $320,539, up 30.8% from last March, and the average sale price was $394,151, up 31.5%.

The time to contract is also five days and month’s supply of properties is 0.7 months.

Obviously, there appears to be a positive change in new listings compared to last year. The hope is that if this trend continues, available inventory will start to level off.

The big question is, will increased inventory result in lower sale prices? With properties going into contract quickly towards the end of the traditional selling season, the sale prices over the next few months may tell the story, but don’t bet on it. The number of buyers out there just waiting for new properties to come on the market will take a long time to go through, and even higher interest rates will, in my opinion, have little effect on most buyers in our waterfront area.

If my experienced friends didn’t know what’s going on in the market, why should you or any other buyer or seller? Whatever your decision is to do with your newfound wealth, don’t make that decision until you know all of your options. If you’re selling high, you’re also buying high.

Just saying.

www.amisun.com

APRIL 27, 2022

OBITUARIES Marjorie Higgins Marjorie Higgins, 98, died April 12, 2022, at her home in Anna Maria. Born to Ida and Matthew Dickinson in Melrose, Mass., she remained a proud New Englander all her life. She married Forrest Higgins in 1946 and they had three daughters. The family moved to Southern California in 1967, where she learned tennis, playing several times a week.

After retirement, the couple discovered and moved to Anna Maria Island. She always said it felt like a second honeymoon. Sadly, Forrest died three years later.

An inspiration to many, Marjorie was always on the go, volunteering with Anna Maria Elementary School second-graders, Love Bugs Daycare, and the church nursery. She also enjoyed visiting with sick and

homebound friends and attending Bible studies at church. She shared her faith in the Lord with most everyone she met. Always athletic, she and her friends enjoyed tennis, biking, kayaking, and beach walks; and 200-mile bicycle trips in England, Denmark, Egypt, and the Holy Land.

She was an avid reader and faithful letter-writer, always remembered birthdays, and loved to tell stories about the old days.

Also preceded by four brothers and her daughter, Pamela Cooper. She is survived by daughters Carol Thorpe (Jim) and Leslie Myette (George). She dearly loved her grandchildren Meredith, Lana, Sarah, and Alan and nine great-grandchildren.

A Celebration of Life will be held on April 28 at 2 p.m. at CrossPointe Fellowship in Holmes Beach. In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations be made to Tidewell Hospice.

BEACH BEAT BRADENTON BEACH

4/12, 4:40 a.m., noise complaint, 401 20th Place N. The officer was dispatched to a complaint of subjects talking loudly in the pool area. Due to all of the subjects speaking only Spanish, the officer, who does not speak Spanish, did his best to explain the noise ordinance to the group. The officer used hand gestures to direct the subjects inside the residence. No further action was taken.

4/17, 11 a.m., towed vehicle, 105 Sixth St. N. A rental vehicle that was left partly on the road in front of a residence was towed after a six-day effort to get the rental company to come and remove the vehicle yielded no results. There was no exterior damage to the vehicle, but police reported it was broken down.

THE SUN

HOLMES BEACH

4/16, 11:38 a.m., disturbance, 4900 Gulf Drive. A juvenile was observed shooting gel pellets out of a vehicle. The vehicle was stopped and a Gel Blaster Surge pellet gun was observed along with a baggie containing frozen green gel pellets. The pellet gun and pellets were confiscated and the parents of the juveniles were contacted to pick them up.

4/16, 9:20 p.m., assist Manatee County Sheriff ’s Office, U.S. 41 near Moccasin Wallow Road. While driving home the officer observed a vehicle approach him from behind at a high rate of speed. After changing lanes abruptly, the vehicle struck the officer’s patrol car. The officer activated his emergency lights and the suspect vehicle took an excessive amount of time to pull over. The officer called for assistance from the Manatee County Sheriff ’s Office, who arrived and found the suspect to be driving under

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the influence of alcohol. The suspect failed field sobriety tests and was arrested and charged with DUI. 4/19, 1:01 p.m., information, 401 Clark Lane. The officer was dispatched to a complainant who said earlier in the day a FedEx driver had delivered several packages to her home, which is elevated on stilts. She said the truck had backed under the house, and when it left, she heard a loud noise. By the time she got downstairs, the truck was gone and there was damage to the home. Police could not determine whether the damage was recent, and no video was available. A report was taken for her insurance company and no further action was taken.

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THE SUN

Cindy Jones-Burke ke

APRIL 27, 2022

Sherrall Van Leeuwen

Realtor/Staging Certified Residential Specialistt

Cindy@CJonesRE.com m Direct: 941.773.9770

• 25 years NAVY • 10 years of experience as a real estate professional • Always available and

310 Pine Avenue • Anna Maria, FL 34216

teamduncan.com

responsive to your needs • Honest and ethical • Anna Maria local • On your side Contact me today for your free consultation.

941.287.5795 Sherrall.VanLeeuwen@PremierSIR.com CALLSHERRALL.com

PremierSothebysRealty.com Sotheby’s International Realty® and the Sotheby’s International Realty logo are registered service marks used with permission.

Each office is independently owned and operated.

LONGBOAT KEY

ANNA MARIA 845 North Shore Drive Shellie Young

ISLAND AT RIVIERA DUNES

435 L’Ambiance Drive #J204 & K205 $7,950,000

1005 Riviera Dunes Way

Laura Pearson & Carmen Baskind

Cindy Pierro

941.993.5167

MARINA BAY $6,900,000 941.713.5458

2450 Harbourside Drive #243

Tom Hedge

$1,895,000

941.587.6660

608 69th Avenue West $1,625,000 Laura Stavola 941.447.4875

$2,200,000 941.809.0041

Vi ew a r e a l i st i n g s

Contact us for a confidential consultation PremierSothebysRealty.com

WORTH MORE VENICE | 941.412.3323

941.920.6818

SARASOTA 643 Owl Way Dennis Girard

WHITFIELD ESTATES

your home has never been SARASOTA - DOWNTOWN | 941.364.4000

$2,600,000

LAKEWOOD RANCH | 941.907.9541

LONGBOAT KEY | 941.383.2500

RENTALS | 941.203.3433

Sotheby’s International Realty® and the Sotheby’s International Realty logo are registered service marks used with permission. Each office is independently owned and operated. Equal Housing Opportunity.

Property information herein is derived from various sources including, but not limited to, county records and multiple listing services, and may include approximations. All information is deemed accurate.

www.amisun.com

APRIL 27, 2022

THE SUN

29

Celebrating Suncoast Remake Learning Days Suncoast Remake Learning Days promotes experimental learning and community participation.

BY JOE HENDRICKS SUN CORRESPONDENT | jhendricks@amisun.com

BRADENTON BEACH – The Bradenton Beach City Commission has deemed Friday, April 29 through Sunday, May 8 as Suncoast Remake Learning Days in the city.

The proclamation was approved by the commission on Thursday, March 21 following a presentation

by Suncoast Foundation consultant Pierrette Kelly, who for many years served as the executive director of The Anna Maria Island Community Center.

The proclamation reads, in part, as follows: “The Suncoast Campaign for grade-level reading is a fourcounty effort in Charlotte, DeSoto, Manatee, and Sarasota counties to help children from birth through

third grade – especially those from asset-limited families – succeed in life by ensuring they read on grade level.

“Suncoast Campaign for Grade-Level Reading’s efforts are focused on five core pillars: school readiness, school attendance, summer learning, parent and family engagement and health determinants for healthy readers.

“The Patterson Foundation works with people, businesses, nonprofits, government, and the media to catalyze efforts toward shared aspirations through five key actions: Connecting, learning, sharing, evolving, and strengthening. Remake Learning Days provides an opportunity for wide community participation across five sectors to work toward the greater good of strengthening our learning ecosystems.

“Remake Learning Days Across America is a 10-day festival that celebrates the many learning opportunities in a community. This celebration highlights innovative experiences

JOE HENDRICKS | SUN

Pierrette Kelly, third from left, joined Bradenton Beach Commission members Jan Vosburgh, Marilyn Maro, John Chappie, Ralph Cole and Jake Spooner after reading aloud the proclamation. and opportunities for youth and participants of all ages to develop their sense of creativity, perseverance, and curiosity.

“A variety of organizations – such as schools, museums, libraries, after school organizations, early childcare centers, colleges, universities, media centers, faithbased organizations, businesses, and more – open their doors

ANNA MARIA ISLAND 112 Mangrove Avenue 4 Beds 3/1 Baths 3,577 Sq. Ft. Hannah Hillyard & George Myers 941-744-7358 A4502423 $3,949,000

ANNA MARIA 822 N Shore Drive 2 Beds 2 Baths 1,840 Sq. Ft. Ken Kavanaugh, Jr 941-799-1943 A4529310 $2,350,000

BRADENTON 909 143rd Street NE 4 Beds 4/1 Baths 3,376 Sq. Ft. Stacy Haas 941-587-4359 A4527463 $1,100,000

LAKEWOOD RANCH 12334 Thornhill Court 3 Beds 2 Baths 2,598 Sq. Ft. Gloria Bracciano 941-229-4000 A4530039 $890,000

ANNA MARIA ISLAND 820 N Shore Drive 4 Beds 4/1 Baths 3,953 Sq. Ft. Kathy Harman 941-900-9828 A4524887 $4,500,000

LAKEWOOD RANCH 7379 Divot Loop 3 Beds 2 Baths 1,748 Sq. Ft. Stuart Lawrence & Laura Lawrence 941-894-4001 A4531991 $599,000

BRADENTON 11523 Rolling Green Drive 3 Beds 2/1 Baths 1,807 Sq. Ft. Sandi Dietrich 941-704-0697 A4531465 $565,000

LAKEWOOD RANCH 10118 Glenmore Avenue 3 Beds 2 Baths 2,152 Sq. Ft. Heidi Cox 941-685-1529 A4531072 $565,000

to welcome families, as well as travel into neighborhoods to host hands-on, relevant and engaging educational experiences for youth of all ages, pre-K through high school, and their families, caregivers and educators. “These events are free for all ages and wide community participation is strongly encouraged and promoted. Remake Learning Day

PARRISH 11203 77th Street E 4 Beds 3 Baths 2,655 Sq. Ft. Erica Thomas 941-799-9365 A4530113 $450,000

Events are organized by different learning themes such as arts, maker, outdoor learning, science, technology, and youth voice. In addition, there are professional development sessions for school, out-of-school, childcare and nontraditional educators. Events can fall under one or more learning themes.

“Remake Learning Days provides experiential learning opportunities for families throughout the community.

Learning isn’t limited to the classroom or the school day, rather it’s something that can happen in any place at any time.

“Now, therefore, be it proclaimed by the city commission of the city of Bradenton Beach takes great pride in recognizing Friday, April 29 through Sunday, May 8 as Suncoast Remake Learning Days, a festival of special importance and worthy of the recognition of the citizens of the city of Bradenton Beach and Manatee County.” the proclamation notes.

TERRA CEIA 109 Michiana Drive 2 Beds 2/1 Baths 1,818 Sq. Ft. Debbie Vogler 941-705-3328 A4527498 $2,250,000

BRADENTON 579 Fore Drive 3 Beds 2 Baths 2,401 Sq. Ft. Sandi Dietrich 941-704-0697 A4531096 $1,749,500

PORT CHARLOTTE 13710 Allamanda Circle 3 Beds 2 Baths 1,867 Sq. Ft. Sandi Dietrich 941-704-0697 A4530977 $799,000

LAKEWOOD RANCH 7331 Riviera Cove 3 Beds 2 Baths 1,926 Sq. Ft. Stacy Haas 941-587-4359 A4530060 $795,000

LAKEWOOD RANCH 2838 56th Avenue Circle E 3 Beds 2 Baths 1,542 Sq. Ft. Leah Secondo 941-545-4430 A4531565 $415,000

BRADENTON 6114 43rd Street W 206E 2 Beds 2 Baths 1,178 Sq. Ft. Patty Brooks 941-545-1194 A4530590 $255,000

941.896.9981 | MICHAELSAUNDERS.COM

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THE SUN

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!

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 Street, Bradenton Beach, FL 34217 106 Bridge

FEBRUARY 3, 2022

APRIL 27, 2022

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THE SUN

31

City proclaims Municipal Clerks Week The Bradenton Beach City Commission has proclaimed the week of May 1 through May 7 as Municipal Clerks Week in appreciation of City Clerk Terri Sanclemente and all municipal clerks.

According to the proclamation read aloud during the Thursday, April 21 city commission meeting, the office of the municipal clerk is a time-honored and vital part of local government throughout the world.

“The office of the municipal clerk is the oldest among public servants and provides the professional link between the citizens, the local governing bodies and agencies of government at other levels. Municipal clerks have pledged to be ever mindful of their neutrality and impartiality, rendering equal service to all. The municipal clerk serves as the information center on functions

of local government and community.

Municipal clerks continually strive to improve the administration of the affairs of the office of the municipal clerk through participation in education programs, seminars, workshops and the annual meetings of their state, provincial, county and international professional organizations. It is most appropriate that we recognize the accomplishments of the office of the municipal clerk and further extend appreciation to our municipal clerk, Terri Sanclemente, and to all municipal clerks for the vital services they perform and their exemplary dedication to the communities they represent,” the proclamation states.

“It’s an honor to work with all of you,” Sanclemente told the commission after the proclamation was read.

JOE HENDRICKS | SUN

Bradenton Beach City Clerk Terri Sanclemente was on hand for the reading of the Clerks Week proclamation.

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THE SUN

SPORTS

APRIL 27, 2022

Moss Builders tops Sato Real Estate, stays undefeated

BY MONICA SIMPSON SPECIAL TO THE SUN

ANNA MARIA - With three Mosses on the roster, team Moss Builders finished week four undefeated and alone at the top of the league rankings by beating Sato Real Estate 8-2 last week in adult league soccer. Servis First Bank logs in at a close second, with a record of 3-1-0.

The Sato Real Estate team finishes mid-season with two wins and two losses.

Missing key players, Sato Real Estate struggled against the nearly full squad put on the field by Moss Builders.

Without the goalkeeping talents of Ben Sato, his team had to sacrifice their field game to protect their goal.

Josh Sato, Kris Yavalar and Will Kretzmann faced the Moss Builders’ offense in the keep position.

Yavalar had four saves in the game for Sato Real Estate, while Kretzmann and J. Sato had at least three saves between them. Their efforts just were not enough against the leg power behind the Moss Builders’ offense, with Filipe Schlueter and Gerardo Urgiola each scoring two goals. Four single goals were scored by Olaf Krause, Greg Moss, Ed Moss and Hakan Toka for Moss Builders.

Despite the score, the loss cannot take away from the firepower of Damir Glavan and Will Kretzmann. Each Sato Real Estate veteran had single goals in the game, keeping Thursday night’s goalie for Moss Builders - Ryan Moss - extremely busy on his way to seven saves in the game.

Much like J. Sato, R. Moss’ versatility allows him to be a triple threat on the pitch.

Effectively playing goalie, along with offensive prowess and defensive strength, makes both players top-ranked players in the league season after season.

Going into week five, Moss Builders and Servis First Bank

are tied in the points race for the season. Fighting neck and neck to finish top seed at the end of the regular season, each team has 16 points.

Gulfview Windows & Doors and Sato Real Estate each have 13 cumulative goals. Just behind in the points race is Shady Lady with 12 points and The Gitt Team, which has a total of eight goals.

Currently ranked seventh in the league, Progressive Cabinetry has scored six points in the season, matching the Salty Printing team. Salty, in last place, looks to week five for its first win of the season.

SUN SCOREBOARD TUESDAY, APRIL 19 8- TO 10-YEAR-OLD LEAGUE WEEK 1

MONICA SIMPSON | SUN

Beach Bums The Gitt Team

1 3

Solid Rock Construction Tidy MD

2 1

11- TO 14-YEAR-OLD LEAGUE WEEK 1 Miz & Hiz Biz Shady Lady

3 6

HSH Moss Builders

2 6

THURSDAY, APRIL 21 ADULT CO-ED SOCCER WEEK 4 Sato Real Estate (2-2-0) Moss Builders (4-0-0)

2 8

Salty Printing (0-4-0) 3 Gulfview Windows & Doors (2-1-1) 6 Shady Lady (1-1-2) 7 Progressive Cabinetry (1-3-0) 2 Servis First Bank (3-1-0) The Gitt Team (1-2-1)

7 4

Above, the Moss Builders scoring power seems endless against Sato Real Estate as Chris Klotz looks to make goalie Josh Sato work to prevent another team Moss point on the Island's pitch Thursday night. Left, keeping Sato Real Estate's Matt Kretzmann on high alert, Greg Moss gains possession of the soccer ball near the Moss Builders' goal with scoring in his sights last Thursday night at The Center.

Below, as Chris Klotz winds up for the strike for team Moss Builders, Sato Real Estate's Kris Yavalar strategically steps in attempting to make the stop in the night's first game.

APRIL 27, 2022

FUN IN THE SUN

Across 1 Maine's __ Bay 6 Miner's find 9 Rotisserie rod 13 __ the time: on every occasion 14 Jinx 15 Saturn's largest moon 17 Become light-headed 19 Cream of the crop 20 Former Montreal MLBer 21 Mauna __: Hawaiian for "long mountain" 22 "Rolling" rockers 23 H.S. hurdles 24 Reason for a track race do-over 26 Wing measurement 28 "Famous" cookie maker 29 Like the crowd after a home team homer 32 Similar (to)

Answers to 04-20-22 Crossword Puzzle.

33 Batter's stat 36 Choose love over money, say 40 Driver's aid 41 Pea places 42 Ward off 43 One who saves the day 44 __ Spumante wine 46 Finished version, as of a document 50 Some canine retrievers 54 In equal amounts 55 Nest egg initials 56 Stick-to-it-iveness 57 Mournful melody 58 Totally out of funds ... and what each set of circles shows, casually 60 Passover meal 61 Sleep stage 62 Singer/songwriter Mann 63 Lat. and Ukr., once

THE SUN

64 "__ to Joy" 65 Watchdog's warning Down 1 Streetside lunch spots 2 Amazon's virtual assistant 3 Was dreaming, perhaps 4 Humongous 5 Aptly named bug spray with an exclamation point 6 Akron native 7 Kidney-related 8 Phone routing no.

9 Top of Texas?

10 Cockpit occupants 11 "Proud Mary" singer's memoir 12 Spud 16 Where many eggs hatch 18 __ Romeo: sports car 22 Final Four round 25 "Oh, for heaven's __!"

27 B-29 movers 29 Rear at sea 30 Sushi garnish 31 Bullfight cheer 32 Reply to a ques.

33 Issa of "Insecure" 34 "It's cold in here!"

35 "The Addams Family" cousin 37 Hardly succinct 38 Skunk's weapon 39 Villainous smile 43 Closet accessory for a coat

44 Ski lodge style 45 "Immediately!" in the ER 46 Govt. agents 47 Yale and Penn 48 "The Big Bang Theory"

crowd 49 Stayed home in bed, say 51 Smell 52 Pedal pusher 53 Alloy that symbolizes

strength 58 To's partner 59 English lit degs.

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THE SUN

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 nonperishable food, PAPER & PERSONAL HYGIENE PRODUCTS. Donations boxes are located at the Church, Moose Club, and Walgreen’s.

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 THC CLEANING : Residential, Commercial, Rentals, VRBO. Professional and Reliable. Call 941-7564570 or 941-565-3931

EMPLOYMENT CASHIERS – We have immediate openings for full-time and part-time cashiers. Experience a plus, but not required.

Very attractive starting pay. No evening hours!

Email your resume to hometruevaluehardware @gmail.com or apply in person at Home True Value Hardware, 5324 Marina Drive, Holmes Beach, FL 34217

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.

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

FOR SALE PITCHER COLLECTION 130 PIECES. Best Offer. Call 941-773-7694

HEALTH CARE HOME CARE PROVIDER with Dennis Church a nursing assistant. 8+ years of experience. Licensed in Florida. SAFER at HOME. Call 815-519-3993

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 # CBC 1261150.

Call Mike Kern 941-7781115 GET’R DONE DRYWALL, INC Specializing in Remodels & Repairs. Island Resident for 18 years. Call Neil Cell 941-962-1194

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.

API’S DRYWALL REPAIR 15+ years experience.

Free estimates. No job too small. Love to help you.

Call 941-524-8067.

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.

Decluttering and Organizing for your home or office. Packing/ Unpacking & room revitalization to create comfortable and enjoyable environments. 765-4046608 Free Estimates!

LANDSCAPING & LAWN CARE R. GAROFALO’S Interlocking brick pavers, driveways, patios, pool decks. Free estimates. Licensed & Insured. Call Rafael 941778-4823 or Veronik 941526-7941 ISLAND RESIDENT. TREE/ BUSH Trimming, removal.

Sweeping, blowing, weeding. Weekly, bimonthly 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.

APRIL 27, 2022

LOST at AMI MOOSE CLUB on Tuesday March 15 Brown wooden sunglasses with Abalone shell frame.

Blue lenses. Call 941-2431444

MASSAGE MASSAGE BY VINNIE Swedish Deep Tissue And More By Appointment Only Call 773-383-0463 Vinnie LMT,CMCE

COLE'S TROPICAL POOL SERVICE Call Cole Bowers for all your pool maintenance needs! Affordable and Dependable!! 941-7131893

PRESSURE WASHING & WINDOWS

MARTIN’S MOVING YOUR Island movers!

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

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

PAINTING & WALLCOVERING

REAL ESTATE HOMES & CONDOS FOR SALE

MOVING & STORAGE

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

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

Paperhanging/removal Faux finishes. Interior painting. Mary Bell Winegarden 941-794-0455 PROFESSIONAL PAINTING SERVICES. Prompt & Reliable.

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

Free written detailed estimates. Bill Witaszek 941-307-9315 HOLLANDS PAINT & DRYWALL Handyman services, Interior/Exterior paint, Drywall, Wall/ Ceiling textures, Popcorn removal, Pressure washing, Stucco repairs.

30 years experience, references available.

Licensed/Insured CALL DEE 256-337-5395

POOL SERVICES FOUR SEASONS POOL SERVICE AND CHEMICAL SERVICES. Certified Pool Operator. 10 + Years Experience. Residential/ commercial. Chemical Service Licensed & Insured. Call Dennis Clark 941-737-5657

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 941232-2216 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! 941725-1589 REALTOR FOR HIRE. BUYING OR SELLING on AMI? 17 years experience & USAF Veteran. Call Kelly Gitt Keller Williams Realty today 941-799-9299.

2BR/1.1BA VIEWS OF THE GULF, Large Deck, new floors, stainless appliances.

STEPS to the beach!

Weekly rental income producing property. $899,900.00 Sharon Hightower RE/MAX Alliance Group. 941-3305054

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 513-382-1992.

3BR/2BA FURNISHED CONDO AT ISLAND VILLAGE. 2 parking spaces, 2 pools, pickle ball crt. $3250/mo., First & Sec. Deposit, Condo approval required. Rent includes Cable (no WIFI), Sewer, Water, & Trash. Call A Paradise Realty for details 941 778-4800.

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 CONDOS Large pool, beach access, free WiFi, 1&2 Bedroom $900 to $1200 per week 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 May to November. Owner/ renter. Flexible terms.

570-239-0431 email marketreps@aol.com

www.amisun.com

APRIL 27, 2022

BUSINESS & SERVICE DIRECTORY HOME IMPROVEMENT

HOME IMPROVEMENT

THE SUN

Call today to place your ad: 941-778-3986 PAINTING

TRANSPORTATION

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 AIRPORT RIDES- Tampa, St. Pete, Sarasota.

Reasonable rates! Call or text Anna 941-932-1600

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www.amisun.com

THE SUN

APRIL 27, 2022

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

Home & Condominium Sales • Investment Properties • Vacation Rentals

BOUTIQUE PROPERTY MANAGEMENT Vacation Rentals • Annual Rentals • Association Management • Home Watch Service

• Dedicated, multi-lingual rental team • Performance tailored to your needs and expectations • Cutting-edge technology • Trusted by generations of Islanders, property owners, and visitors 310 Pine Avenue Anna Maria, FL 34216

Providing a top-no guest experien tch ce You call and we answer – 2 4/7 Always there for our owners Maximize yo ur revenue

TeamDuncan.com

941.779.0304