Issuu

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VOL 21 No. 43

August 4, 2021

Feds issue red tide warning for AMI, county Red tide persists in Manatee and several surrounding counties, causing respiratory irritation and fish kills. BY CINDY LANE SUN STAFF WRITER | clane@amisun.com

ANNA MARIA ISLAND – The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) has issued a red tide respiratory warning for Manatee County, including Anna Maria Island.

Impacts are patchy, and vary with currents and wind direction, the report notes. Red tide produces a neurotoxin called brevetoxin that can cause respiratory irritation, coughing, and more serious illness for people with severe or chronic respiratory conditions such as asthma, emphysema or COPD, according to the Florida Department of Health. Health officials recommend that people experiencing symptoms stay away from the water, go inside to an air-conditioned space, or wear masks, especially during onshore winds.

Red tide-related respiratory irritation was reported in Manatee County at Coquina Beach July 22-29 and at Manatee Beach July 23-27 and July 29, as well as in Sarasota, Pinellas and Lee counties, according to Friday’s Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission weekly report. Manatee County registered high levels of red tide in water samples at the Terra Ceia Point on July 22. SEE RED TIDE, PAGE 24

CINDY LANE | SUN

Manatee County has increased its response to recent red tide-related fish kills by assigning more tractor drivers to clean Anna Maria Island’s beaches.

County administrator addresses third COVID-19 staff fatality COVID-19 cases in Manatee County are peaking once again. BY JOE HENDRICKS SUN CORRESPONDENT | jhendricks@amisun.com

MANATEE COUNTY – A third county employee has died of COVID-19 related symptoms and 41 county employees have tested positive for COVID-19 since early May, according to County Administrator Scott Hopes. None of the three workers who died were vaccinated, according to the county.

INSIDE NEWS CALENDAR OUTDOORS POLICE REPORTS REAL ESTATE SPORTS CROSSWORD

4 6 18 20 26-31 32 33

“We’ve had a total of 41 positive cases” from May 3 to July 30, Hopes said during a press conference he held Friday afternoon outside the county administration building in downtown Bradenton. “We’ve had a total of 105 exposures we’ve identified through contact tracing and we’ve had three deaths. Five of our positive cases in the past couple of weeks have been in fully vaccinated individuals,” Hopes said. According to the COVID-19 summary report Hopes referenced, three positive SEE COVID, PAGE 9

Beach Bistro owner: Eat elsewhere if you’re not vaccinated The Beach Bistro in Holmes Beach is asking those not vaccinated for COVID-19 to dine somewhere else. BY JASON SCHAFFER SUN CORRESPONDENT | jschaffer@amisun.com

HOLMES BEACH - While the debate over masks and vaccinations heats up due to the Delta variant of COVID-19, one Island business owner says he doesn’t want unvaccinated customers walking through the doors. That’s the new policy at the nationally-renowned Beach Bistro and The Doctor’s Office cocktail lounge.

Owner Sean Murphy has gone to great lengths to keep staff and customers safe. The Beach Bistro was the first establishment in the U.S. to acquire state-of-the-art air purification units developed in Denmark that were specifically designed to destroy airborne viruses, he said. “I called my cousin who is an anesthesiologist and works in a sterile environment. I told him I needed to purify the air in my restaurant, how do I do that?” said Murphy, who also owns The Doctor’s Office and the temporarily-closed Eat Here restaurant in Holmes Beach. “My cousin SEE BISTRO, PAGE 26

GOLF CARTS, low-

THE FIRST day of school at AME

speed vehicles subject of new Holmes Beach moratorium. 25

is almost here. 3

Anna Maria Island, Florida

CITY COMMISSION buzzing

over noise regulations. 5

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

THE SUN

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THE SUN

First day of school is almost here BY JASON SCHAFFER SUN CORRESPONDENT | jschaffer@amisun.com

HOLMES BEACH - The first day of school is Aug. 10 and it looks like the environment at Anna Maria Elementary will be much like it was before the COVID-19 epidemic. All students will be learning in the classroom, enjoying recess, eating in the cafeteria and getting to know their new principal. According to the School District of Manatee County, school will open with a voluntary face mask/covering policy. Updated COVID-19 protocols for the District include: • Empowering families to make their own informed choices regarding the use of face masks/coverings and vaccines. • Continuing thorough cleaning and disinfecting of all schools. • Maintaining ample supplies of hand sanitizer, continued emphasis on handwashing protocols and having additional COVID-19 protection materials in stock and available. • Continuing to inform students, families and employees regarding accessibility for COVID-19 vaccinations.

JASON SCHAFFER | SUN

With the first day of school just days away, students and staff are ready to get back to what will hopefully be a normal learning environment. • Maintaining the District Operations Center (DOC) to manage and coordinate the response to COVID-19 in schools with the Florida Department of Health Manatee. • Continuing to provide the community with updates regarding positive cases in our schools.

Principal Michael Masiello says the school hasn’t received many phone calls regarding the COVID-19 policy, citing only one call from a concerned parent. This is Principal Masiello’s first year after taking over for Jackie Featherston, who retired at the end of the 2020-2021 school year.

“Our hope is that we get back to some normal routines,” said Principal Masiello, speaking of what this year will be like for students. “In the past, they’ve had a play for each grade level every month and we’re looking forward to getting back to that and other extracurricular activities. We want to be able to do everything we did preCOVID. Anna Maria Elementary will host a back-to-school night on Aug. 5, when parents and students can come to the school and meet with teachers and staff, explore the school and see improvements that were made to the facility during the summer break. This was done virtually last year, so the staff is excited about the return of this annual event. Renovations to the school include new flooring and the installation of smart boards in the classrooms. The smart boards are large screens that display anything a teacher needs from their computer including the internet but can also be written on like traditional chalk or dry erase board. According to Principal Masiello, students and teachers will enjoy the refreshed new look of the school.

THE SUN

ISLAND NEWS

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AUGUST 4, 2021

New school year brings new principal to Anna Maria Elementary

IN BRIEF

BY JASON SCHAFFER SUN CORRESPONDENT | jschaffer@amisun.com

SUBMITTED | CITY OF HOLMES BEACH

A mobile COVID-19 vaccination clinic is coming to Holmes Beach City Hall Aug. 4.

Holmes Beach to host COVID-19 vaccine clinic The Florida Department of Health and the city of Holmes Beach are partnering to get COVID-19 vaccinations to those who still need one. The event takes place at Holmes Beach City Hall, 5801 Marina Drive, from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. on Aug. 4. The Pfizer, Moderna and Johnson & Johnson vaccines will be offered. The Pfizer vaccine will be available to anyone age 12 and older with parental consent required for those under age 18. The Moderna and one-shot Johnson & Johnson vaccine will be available to anyone age 18 and older. All vaccines are provided to the public free of charge. There is no residency requirement to be vaccinated during the event.

HOLMES BEACH - The 2021-22 school year is about to begin at Anna Maria Elementary on Aug. 10, and the first day for students is also the first day for Principal Michael Masiello. Following the retirement of Principal Jackie Featherston, Masiello was transferred from Ballard Elementary, where he had been principal for the past five years. A Manatee County native, Masiello has been an educator in the area for many years, serving as assistant principal at Bayshore Elementary, principal at Ballard and as a special education teacher at Stewart Elementary for 10 years. “AME is a school of excellence and I’d like to continue the high level of achievement they’ve had at this school,” Masiello said. “I want to bring a positive, upbeat growth mindset environment. I just want to bring everyone on staff together and work as a team to make it a positive environment.” Principal Masiello also stressed the importance of maintaining a relationship with parents. “I love interacting with the kids

JASON SCHAFFER | SUN

Anna Maria Elementary School welcomes Principal Michael Masiello following the retirement of Jackie Featherston. and the parents. I have an open door policy and love for the parents to be involved in their child’s education. If they have concerns, I want them to come with me with their concerns. I’m here to problem solve and do what’s in the best interest of the kids,” said Masiello.

Principal Masiello also stressed the importance of being involved with the community, hoping that students, parents and staff can make this a great year of learning and return to normalcy after a difficult 2020-21 school year due to COVID-19.

Property donation regulations go for a vote KRISTIN SWAIN | SUN

City leaders thank local workers Holmes Beach staff, police and code officers and elected officials came out July 27 to city field to thank local Waste Pro workers for their hard work and dedication to the city’s residents and property owners, particularly in the wake of the busy July 4 weekend and Hurricane Elsa. The city provided a luncheon of pizza from Domino’s for the occasion along with drinks and certificates of appreciation and gift certificates donated by The Ugly Grouper to each worker.

Corrections • A photo that appeared on Page 15 of last week’s Sun was of a hawk. The caption misidentified the type of bird. • Beachfront homeowner Wendy Jordan is originally from Florida. A story in last week’s Sun stated she was a native of another state.

If new proposed regulations pass two votes, any vacation rental properties donated for use will have to meet the minimum rental regulations for the zoning district. BY KRISTIN SWAIN SUN STAFF WRITER | kswain@amisun.com

HOLMES BEACH – City leaders are moving proposed regulations to a vote concerning stays at vacation rental properties donated to charities or other organizations where vacationers aren’t paying to rent the property. The issue came to the attention of commissioners as a part of the city’s efforts to curtail renting vacation properties for stays shorter than what’s allowed by Holmes Beach regulations. In the R-2, R-3 and R-4 zones, where many of the city’s vacation rental properties are located, the minimum stay allowed is seven days. In the R-1 zoning district, rentals of 30 days or more are allowed. Commissioner Jayne Christenson, who asked for the matter to be placed on a work session agenda for discus-

sion, said she’s not opposed to anyone offering their property for use as a part of a donation to a charitable organization or a corporate getaway, but she does want those uses to fall in line with the same regulations the city has for vacation renters. While the proposed ordinance requires that the use of the properties meets the minimum stay requirements of the residential zone they’re located in, the length of stay requirements do not apply if the people staying at the property are relatives of the property owner or other guests who do not make any direct or indirect payments for use of the property. If a stay at the property is offered as an auction item benefitting a nonprofit or other organization, the minimum length of stay requirements for the zoning district still apply. The matter was brought up during a July 27 commission meeting where it didn’t get a lot of discussion by commissioners, but it was agreed to move the proposed ordinance specifying the minimum length of stay requirements for donated properties or other stays ar

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THE SUN

Commissioners seek additional funding from tourism City leaders are looking at ways to get more money for infrastructure repairs and replacements, including instituting an impact fee or city tourism tax.

City buzzing about noise regulations Holmes Beach commissioners are considering changes to the city’s noise ordinance and vacation rental certificate program. BY KRISTIN SWAIN SUN STAFF WRITER | kswain@amisun.com

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

HOLMES BEACH – With increases in the number of people in Holmes Beach primarily due to tourism taking a toll on the city’s aging infrastructure, commissioners are considering alternative funding options. One of the options that commissioners discussed during a July 27 work session was an impact fee. City Planner Bill Brisson said the city could have an impact fee but that he doesn’t feel it would generate the expected return. He said an impact fee would only apply to new construction that exceeds the size of any current structure on the property. With the city of Holmes Beach largely already built out, Brisson

KRISTIN SWAIN | SUN

Holmes Beach commissioners are looking for ways to help mitigate some of the burden placed on taxpayers by growing tourism. added that an impact fee might not give commissioners the financial return they’re looking for. He also said the impact fee couldn’t be assessed for existing issues in the city, such as infrastructure. To begin the move toward an impact fee, the commissioners would first have to invest in the idea by having a study conducted to see what the possible impacts to the community of further development would be.

Another option being considered by commissioners is the creation of a city bed tax. This option would be paid by visitors renting in the city and would be a tourist tax that would stay in Holmes Beach to benefit both residents and visitors. Commissioners asked city staff to look into the possibility of both options and agreed to put the discussion on a future work session agenda.

HOLMES BEACH – More changes are on the way for the city’s noise regulations with the proposed addition of the term “plainly audible,” a requirement to face noise-producing electronics toward the rental units and a proposition to get a financial bond or some other financial security for unpaid noise citations. Commissioners discussed the issue of excessive noise in residential communities during a July 27 work session. Despite Holmes Beach Police Chief Bill Tokajer saying the city’s current ordinance is working and is “a model ordinance” being emulated by other cities, commissioners are considering adding the current regulations to help curtail noise between houses. One of the things already being used by police and code officers responding to noise violation complaints is “plainly audible.” Commissioners agreed that the term needs to be added to the current noise ordinance for clarification and enforcement. Tokajer said he’s instructed officers arriving at a noise complaint to judge if the noise being heard SEE NOISE, PAGE 23

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 John Reitz Distribution Bob Alexander Tony McNulty Connor Field Contributors Tom Vaught Steve Borggren Monica Simpson

ON THE AGENDA ANNA MARIA

10005 GULF DRIVE FOR INFORMATION, CALL 941-708-6130

City hall is open to the public with limited capacity and safety protocols in place. Please visit www.cityofannamaria.com or contact city hall for more information. Aug. 12, 2 p.m. – City Commission meeting Aug. 16, noon – Election qualifying period begins

BRADENTON BEACH

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

City hall is open to the public with limited capacity and safety protocols in place. Please visit www.cityofbradentonbeach.com or contact city hall for more information. Aug. 4, 9:30 a.m. – Community Redevelopment Agency meeting Aug. 4, 2 p.m. – Scenic WAVES meeting Aug. 5, 6 p.m. – City Commission meeting Aug. 18, 10 a.m. – City Commission budget work meeting Aug. 19, 9:30 a.m. – Community Redevelopment Agency budget work meeting Aug. 19, noon – City Commission meeting

HOLMES BEACH

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

City hall is open to the public with limited capacity and safety protocols in place. Please visit www.holmesbeachfl.org or contact city hall for more information.

Aug. 4, 6 p.m. – Planning Commission meeting Aug. 10, 5 p.m. – City Commission meeting with work session to follow Aug. 18, 10 a.m. – Code Compliance special magistrate hearing

ISLAND-WIDE

Aug. 16, 9 a.m. – Tourist Development Council meeting, Manatee County administration building, 1112 Manatee Ave. W., Bradenton Aug. 17, 6 p.m. – West Manatee Fire Rescue board of commissioners meeting, administration building, 701 63rd St. W., Bradenton MARKYOUR CALENDAR

THURSDAY AUG. 5

RoserRobics, Roser Church, 512 Pine Ave., Anna Maria, 9:30 a.m., no cost but donations welcome. Participants asked to bring bottled water and wear a face mask or shield. Farm stand, Holmes Beach City Hall, 5801 Marina Drive, Holmes Beach, 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Sunshine Stitchers knit and crochet, Island Branch Library, 5701 Marina Drive, Holmes Beach, 2 p.m. Register online at www.manateelibrary.libcal. com/calendar. Thursdays in Paradise Stroll featuring local art, music and food, Bridge Street, Bradenton Beach, 5 to 8 p.m.

SATURDAY AUG. 7

Robinson Runners, Robinson Preserve Mosaic Nest, 840 Ninth Ave. 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. Face masks required. Photo scanning session, Island Branch Library, 5701 Marina Drive, Holmes Beach 10 a.m. to noon. Register online at www.manateelibrary.libcal.com/ calendar. Tie Dye with Sharpies, Island Branch Library, 5701 Marina Drive, Holmes Beach, 2 p.m. Register online at www. manateelibrary.libcal.com/calendar. Music on the Porch Saturday Jam Session with Soupy, Cortez Cultural Center, 11655 Cortez Road, Cortez, 2 to 4 p.m.

SUNDAY AUG. 8

Farm stand, Holmes Beach City Hall, 5801 Marina Drive, Holmes Beach, 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Rise and Shine Power Flow Yoga, Robinson Preserve Mosaic Nest, 840 Ninth Ave. N.W., Bradenton 10:30 a.m. to 11:45 a.m., $10 fee payable online. Bring your own yoga mat. Register at https://parks.mymanatee.org/wbwsc/webtrac.wsc/search. html?primarycode=110006 or call 941-7425923 ext. 6042 for more information.

TUESDAY AUG. 10

RoserRobics, Roser Church, 512 Pine Ave., Anna Maria, 9:30 a.m., no cost but donations welcome. Participants asked to bring bottled water and wear a face mask or shield. SEE CALENDAR, PAGE 7

AUGUST 4, 2021

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FROM PAGE 6

Family storytime, Island Branch Library, 5701 Marina Drive, Holmes Beach, 10 a.m. Ages 0-5, limit five children and five caregivers. Register online at www.manateelibrary. libcal.com/calendar. Tech help, Island Branch Library, 5701 Marina Drive, Holmes Beach, 2-4 p.m. Register online at www.manateelibrary.libcal.com/ calendar.

WEDNESDAY

THE SUN

Thursdays in Paradise Stroll featuring local art, music and food, Bridge Street, Bradenton Beach, 5 to 8 p.m.

FRIDAY AUG. 13

Locals Beach Cleanup, Manatee Beach, 4000 Gulf Drive, Holmes Beach, 4 p.m. Reserve to www.facebook.com/AMILOCALS.

SATURDAY AUG. 14

Golfing for God, IMG Academy Golf Club, 4350 El Conquistador Pkwy., Bradenton, 2:45 p.m. tee time, 5:30 p.m. Bible study and dinner, $40 for golf and dinner, $20 for dinner. Reservations required. Reserve to www.roserchurch.com/g4g/. Island Time Book Club, “My Lovely Wife” by Samantha Downing, Island Branch Library, 5701 Marina Drive, Holmes Beach, 6:30 p.m. Register online at www.manateelibrary.libcal.com/calendar.

Robinson Runners, Robinson Preserve Mosaic Nest, 840 Ninth Ave. 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. Face masks required. Origami Club, Island Branch Library, 5701 Marina Drive, Holmes Beach, 10 a.m. Register online at www.manateelibrary.libcal.com/ calendar.

THURSDAY

SUNDAY

RoserRobics, Roser Church, 512 Pine Ave., Anna Maria, 9:30 a.m., no cost but donations welcome. Participants asked to bring bottled water and wear a face mask or shield. Farm stand, Holmes Beach City Hall, 5801 Marina Drive, Holmes Beach, 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Sunshine Stitchers Knit and Crochet, Island Branch Library, 5701 Marina Drive, Holmes Beach, 2-4 p.m. Register online at www. manateelibrary.libcal.com/calendar.

AUG. 11

AUG. 12

AUG. 15

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THE SUN

AUGUST 4, 2021

Flood control project gets more services Colliers Engineering will provide engineering services above and beyond those already provided by City Engineer Lynn Burnett. BY JOE HENDRICKS SUN CORRESPONDENT | jhendricks@amisun.com

BRADENTON BEACH – Working in conjunction with Utility Consultants of Florida (UCOF), Colliers Engineering & Design is now authorized to provide up $36,000 in additional engineering services for a $2.1 million state-funded flood control project. The Bradenton Beach City Commission unanimously reached this decision during a three-hour special city commission meeting on Thursday, July 29. During Thursday’s meeting, City Engineer Lynn Burnett first reviewed the 90% completed design plans in which she previously proposed flood control improvements that primarily focused on the installation of pervious pavement or pavers at several beachfront street ends along Gulf Drive North. Those proposed plans were not fully supported by the city commission that then requested an independent review of Burnett’s plans.

JOE HENDRICKS | SUN

Drainage improvements are desired along Avenue A, at and near the 20th Place North and 21st Place North intersections. “This project was to reduce flooding and reduce adverse impacts to the Gulf Drive evacuation route,” Burnett said on Thursday, regarding the plans previously provided by her and her LTA Engineers firm. “The focus of the design for this project was on creating storage at the point of runoff – and not dependent on outfalls. It wasn’t dependent on con-

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veyance as much as it was dependent on storage,” Burnett said of her plans. Burnett’s plans also include city commission requested drainage improvements along Avenue A and 20th Place North, 21st Place North and 22nd Street North. Providing contracted engineering services for Mark Porter’s UCOF firm, Colliers Engineering Senior Project

Manager Gregory Stevens presented the commission with an initial review and comments on Burnett’s plans. “The overview of our comments to LTA’s plans were pretty fundamentally different. Ours rely on outfalls and outlets – in other words, pipes to get things to places – and hers rely on storage on the Island. That was the most fundamental difference from an engineering perspective,” Stevens said. “There is no storage on the Island. If the groundwater’s basically at the ground surface, the soil is saturated,” Stevens said of the Island’s limited capacity for rainwater storage. “Let’s try to get this water off the Island as fast as we can,” Stevens said, noting that the Southwest Florida Water Management District (SWIFTMUD) requires the filtration of rainwater discharged into Sarasota Bay and Anna Maria Sound. Stevens also noted there could be a damaged pipe in the vicinity of Avenue C that is leaking and contributing to the localized flooding in that area. Regarding the use of underdrains that can relieve water ponding and protect street surfaces and

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THE SUN

COVID: County administrator addresses third COVID-19 staff fatality FROM PAGE 1

cases involved fully vaccinated individuals and two involved partially vaccinated individuals. Hopes said those 41 cases included involved 16 members of the Utilities Department and five in the Information Technology (IT) Department – including two previously reported IT Department fatalities. “The largest spread was in utilities. That’s where one of the deaths occurred last week. It was an individual that had been identified by contact tracing. The individual was home on quarantine and became ill rapidly. His spouse is also a utilities worker and found the employee deceased. Subsequently, the spouse has become ill with COVID. They were not vaccinated,” Hopes said, without providing the name of the deceased employee. “The Utilities Department was one of those areas with a lot of vaccine

hesitancy. In addition to that, there was a lot of resistance to wearing masks. That’s why you have so many cases,” Hopes said. According to Hopes, a planning meeting prior to the arrival of Tropical Storm Elsa that included Utilities Department members and representatives from Waste Management and Waste Pro also contributed to an outbreak. Regarding the IT Department deaths in June, Hopes said, “We finally got the gene sequencing back from the health department, and it was the Alpha variant. Two relatively healthy individuals without comorbidities passed away in that four-day period. That was the Alpha variant and what we’re dealing with today is far, far worse.”

CASES PEAKING AGAIN

“We are seeing case volumes at the levels of the peak last year. The Delta variant is the most prevalent variant.

YOUTUBE/MANATEE COUNTY | SUBMITTED

County Administrator Scott Hopes held a COVID-19 related press conference on Friday The Delta variant is causing breakthrough infections in individuals that have been vaccinated. We know that there’s a limit to the time with which you’re going to have coverage, and we’re just beginning to realize that we may need to use a booster to give people continuous protection. Hopes does not anticipate the county requiring its employees to be vaccinated.

“We’re a community of choice. In these departments that have had a large number of cases – and especially when they have a death – we’re seeing an increased desire to get vaccinated. The vaccine works. It worked in the beginning. It still works,” Hopes said. “This pandemic is not behind us. It is still here. We are in our new normal. This virus has proven to have staying power. We are a thriving community. Our economy is thriving. We cannot let a disease stop that economic growth. It’s here, and quite frankly we know how to minimize the risk of contracting this virus,” Hopes said. “The county has made available the appropriate masks. That is the known way to mitigate the spread of the virus. We have changed our protocols. We identified why we’re having spread in various departments. We have SEE COVID, PAGE 26

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THE SUN

AUGUST 4, 2021

Don’t Let Anna Maria Island Get Washed Away! SCAN TO WATCH VIDEOS & SEND YOUR MESSAGE

Don’t let a sea of mismanagement by the Florida Department of

Environmental Protection (DEP) allowing construction on currently designated unbuildable lots on Anna Maria Island to wash away our precious dunes forever. Don’t let the tide go out another day without standing up for the protection of our land, vegetation, turtles, sea birds and all of the wildlife indigenous to the pristine beaches of Anna Maria Island, where we live in harmony with AMI nature every day.

We are Anna Maria Island, not Miami Beach!

Remember, we are an island; unlike most other beaches in Florida. We are a narrow strip of sand that needs vegetation to hold it together. AMI is a fragile island. Over development will start washing our AMI out to sea.

On July 22, 2021, the Florida Department of Environmental Protection did not do the right thing! A rogue ruling was made by interim FDEP Secretary Shawn Hamilton. His controversial ruling now opens the door to the over development of AMI. It could start a destructive domino effect to destroy our beloved beaches, dunes, history, wildlife and tradition forever. We’re calling on all of our local elected leaders of the City of Anna Maria and Anna Maria Island. It’s now up to you to Protect and Preserve AMI from all of the over developers wanting to scrape away our dunes and amazing AMI way of life...“Enough Is Enough!

THOUSANDS ARE NOW WATCHING Visit www.PreserveAMI.com to learn more, sign our petition and send your message.

PAID FOR BY CITIZENS TO PRESERVE AMI

ASK OUR LOCAL ELECTED OFFICIALS TO

PRESERVEAMI.COM

“ENOUGH IS ENOUGH!”

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AUGUST 4, 2021

THE SUN

Impact of FDEP order remains to be seen The proposed development of 105 Elm Ave. pertains to a property located seaward of the State of Florida’s Coastal Construction Control Line. BY JOE HENDRICKS SUN CORRESPONDENT | jhendricks@amisun.com

ANNA MARIA – Despite opposition to the Florida Department of Environmental Protection (FDEP)’s approval of construction on a vacant beachfront lot, no one has yet requested a judicial review of the approval. On Tuesday, July 20, FDEP issued a final order regarding an administrative challenge to a construction permit and notice to proceed that FDEP issued to 105 Elm Ave. owner Fedora Campbell in 2020. “The final order granting Fedora L. Campbell’s application for a Coastal Construction Control Line (CCCL) permit to construct a single-family residence and associated structures seaward of the CCCL on Anna Maria Island in Manatee County, Florida, is approved subject to the general and specific conditions set forth within the permit,” states the final order signed by interim FDEP Secretary Shawn Hamilton. According to the FDEP website, “The Coastal Construction Control Line Program regulates structures and activities which can cause beach erosion, destabilize dunes, damage upland properties or interfere with public access. CCCL permits also protect sea turtles and dune plants.” FDEP’s final order notes that any party to this proceeding has the right to seek a judicial review of the final order by filing a notice of appeal with Department in the Office of General Counsel within 30 days. When contacted by email on Thursday, July 29, FDEP spokesperson Jon Moore

JOE HENDRICKS | SUN

Fedora Campbell’s vacant lot is located seaward of an existing beachfront home at 107 Elm Ave. said, “A judicial review has not been filed in this matter.” According to the city of Anna Maria, no additional applications for city-issued building permits were received last week regarding 105 Elm Ave. Elm Avenue and the existing utilities connections currently end near the driveway of the home at 107 Elm Ave. recently purchased by Wendy and Robert Jordan. The Jordans oppose the development of the 105 Elm Property, in part because it would obstruct their existing beachfront view. The Jordans’ Preserve AMI campaign also expresses concerns about a potential precedent being established regarding the development of additional undeveloped lots seaward of the CCCL in Anna Maria and elsewhere along the Anna Maria Island shoreline.

PREVIOUS PERMIT ACTIVITY

On Jan. 15, 2020, Gagne Construction President Dan Gagne sent a letter to Anna Maria Building Official Luke Curtis regarding the proposed development of 105 Elm Ave.

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

“Attached, please find proposed construction plans for a new single family residence at 105 Elm Ave. Please provide me with a letter of no objection that will be submitted to the Department of Environmental Protection indicating the proposed project does not contravene local setback requirements or zoning codes,” Gagne’s letter stated. One day later, a building permit application seeking a letter of no objection was stamped as received by the city, as was a residential building and impervious coverage calculation worksheet regarding Campbell’s property. On Jan. 23, 2020, City Planner Chad Minor sent a letter to Rolando Gomez, permit manager for FDEP’s CCCL program. Minor’s letter stated the proposed construction of a single-family home at 105 Elm “has been reviewed and does not contravene the city of Anna Maria local setback requirements of the zoning code.” Minor’s letter also noted 105 Elm Ave. is located in a Conservation 1 (CON-1) zoning district.

According to the city of Anna Maria’s current code of ordinances, “The CON-1 district is intended to limit development in areas considered vital to the maintenance of water resources, areas of unique or valuable topographic or subsurface features and areas of significant environmental or ecological importance. “Areas within the CON-1 district should be either preserved or conserved, depending on conditions existing on the lot. Land within the CON-1 district may be appropriate for single-family residential development and related passive recreational facilities in limited circumstances,” the code states. “Development and development activity within the CON-1 district shall be based upon a determination that the property contains a buildable area appropriate for the proposed development,” according to the code of ordinances. On Feb. 14, 2018, then-building official David Greenbaum sent a letter to Joel Christian, a senior scientist with the E Co Consultants firm. Greenbaum’s letter pertained to whether 105 Elm was considered a buildable lot according to city code. “A review of the two reports demonstrates that there is a buildable area on the lot located at 105 Elm. This letter is to confirm that the city of Anna Maria is approving the applicant applying to the Florida Department of Environmental Protection for their determination of buildable area for the lot located at 105 Elm. The city has determined that the request for a determination of buildable area to DEP would not contravene the city of Anna Maria regulations,” Greenbaum stated in his letter.

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AUGUST 4, 2021

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SUBMITTED | MANATEE COUNTY

Proposed Phase I changes to the Kingfish Boat Ramp include rebuilding the boat launch area to allow for four single-lane launches.

Kingfish survey open for opinions Plans are underway to remodel the Kingfish Boat Ramp in Holmes Beach and Manatee County leaders want to receive opinions on the proposed changes through an online survey. The survey is open to anyone who wishes to comment at https://www.mymanatee. org/departments/neighborhood_services/neighborhood_connections/speakupmanatee. A short, three-minute video illustrating the proposed changes is

available to watch on the webpage. Improvements are planned to take place in two phases with Phase I to begin as soon as plans and funding are finalized. Phase II is planned to take place after the new Anna Maria Island Bridge is built. Proposed Phase I improvements include rebuilding the docks and boat launch to accommodate four single-lane launches and the construction of permanent bathroom facilities.

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AUGUST 4, 2021

THE SUN

JOE HENDRICKS | SUN

City Commission Chair Carol Carter represents the city of Anna Maria at ManaSota League of Cities meetings.

Commission discusses legislative priorities for 2022 Led by Commission Chair Carol Carter, the Anna Maria City Commission recently discussed the legislative priorities shared by the city of Anna Maria and the other members of the ManaSota League of Cities regarding the upcoming 2022 legislative session for state legislators. The four shared legislative priorities Carter relayed to the commission on July 22 included preserving and securing home rule rights for Florida municipalities, retaining local vacation rental regulations, improving sea-water quality with a focus on red tide abatement, and supporting and addressing seagrass renourishment, flood mitigation and sea-level rise.

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AUGUST 4, 2021

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AUGUST 4, 2021

WMFR welcomes two new firefighters Two new faces are joining the ranks of West Manatee Fire Rescue District’s full-time firefighters. William Thomas and Gabriel Gonzales stood up in front of district staff, family and friends during a July 20 board of commissioners meeting at the new administration building to take their oaths as WMFR firefighters. In addition to being firefighters, both men are also certified medics, joining the district’s nontransport advanced life support service members who can provide the same medical care as a paramedic without transport capabilities to a medical facility. Gonzales

KRISTIN SWAIN | SUN

Firefighters William Thomas and Gabriel Gonzales take their oaths as West Manatee Fire Rescue District firefighters on July 20. comes to the district with four years of experience under his belt while Thomas has worked his way up to full-time fire-

fighter from the WMFR reserve program, where he started in 2019.

THE SUN

WMFR staff celebrates a promotion West Manatee Fire Rescue District staff announced the promotion of one of their own during a July 20 board of commissioners meeting. Firefighter Derek Bill was promoted to lieutenant with the district, receiving his new badge during the meeting in front of family, friends and district staff at the administration building. Bill began his career with WMFR in 2012 as a member of the district’s reserve program and is a member of the district’s swim team and is a charge paramedic with WMFR’s nontransport advanced life support service.

KRISTIN SWAIN | SUN

Firefighter Derek Bill celebrates his promotion to lieutenant with West Manatee Fire Rescue by receiving his new badge during a July 20 board of commissioners meeting at the district’s new administration building.

AUGUST 4, 2021

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AUGUST 4, 2021

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OUTDOORS

AUGUST 4, 2021

Anatomy of a fishing rod Reel Time RUSTY CHINNIS

very fishing rod, be it a spinning rod, a fly rod or a casting rod, is constructed in a similar way and has the same basic parts. Have you ever wondered why one rod is more expensive than another and why? Here is a breakdown of the basic components of a fishing rod that should help you understand their construction, and why one rod costs more than another. This should also help you determine which rod is best for you. A rod’s blank is constructed from a product known as prepreg. This material is infused with resin and wrapped around a mandrel (which is removed after the blank is formed) giving the rod its basic round shape. This “blank” holds the guides, ferrules, handle, reel seat and fighting butt. Prepreg has fibers that have a unidirectional (straight) orientation. The fibers can be made of different materials including fiberglass, graphite, boron or Kevlar. Some rods are made (laid up) from a prepreg that has additional fibers that run around or at an angle to the unidirectional fibers. This gives the rod additional strength and influences flex, stiffness and affects its price. A rod’s scrim refers to a lightweight material that forms an additional lining under the primary fibers and helps in working the material when it is

RUSTY CHINNIS | SUN

The type of rod chosen can positively affect angling efficiency and enjoyment. wrapped around the mandrel. Scrim can be straight or woven and adds what is known as “hoop strength” to the finished rod. The parts of a rod consist of a blank with a butt section, a fixed hood, a reel seat, a sliding hood, a locking ring, handle, guides, ferrules and a tip. The

butt section is the cork part of the rod behind the reel seat that fits into a fighting harness or into the stomach when playing a fish. On a spinning and casting rod it’s where the nondominant hand holds the rod. The reel seat is where the reel foot is placed either on or near the blank, while the

hoods secure the reel to the rod. The fixed hood is the metal receiver where one end of the reel foot is placed. The sliding hood is the rear receiver that holds the other end of the reel foot. The locking ring is a nut that puts pressure on the sliding hood and holds the reel securely in place. The handle is the cork where the dominant hand is placed. The guides hold the line along the length of the blank. The ferrules connect sections of a rod. The tip as the name implies is the section at the top of the rod. You may also have heard the term taper. A rod’s taper refers to the diameter of a rod from the butt to the tip. The Taper effects the rod’s action. Most rods have either a fast action (stiff) or a slow action (flexible). When you’re shopping for a new outfit knowing the parts and construction of a rod will help you make an informed decision. The most important part of the rod and the one that most affects its price and your buying decision is the blank. The materials and the method of construction of the blank determines its price. The least expensive rods are made from fiberglass while the expensive ones are constructed with graphite, boron and Kevlar. While fiberglass may be good for a beginner, the more expensive rods are a better choice for the seasoned angler. Armed with this information you’ll have the knowledge you need to determine how much you spend on a rod. This decision can positively affect your angling efficiency and enjoyment.

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AUGUST 4, 2021

THE SUN

CAPTAIN DAVE WHITE | SUBMITTED

Clint Anderson, of St. Petersburg, shows off a good mahi for our area. Caught with Captain David White of Anna Maria Charters.

Island waters still clear CAPTAIN DAVE WHITE

The waters around our little Island seem to be pretty clean and clear. We are grateful for it, as the areas around it are devastated with the red tide now being seen. Inshore, we are focusing on snook, mangrove snap-

TURTLE TIPS During sea turtle season, May 1 – Oct. 31, please follow these tips: • Turn off lights visible from the beach and close blinds from sundown to sunrise; lights confuse nesting sea turtles and may cause them to go back to sea and drop their eggs in the water, where they won’t hatch. Light can also attract

per, trout, and sharks, if clients want a larger species. Offshore, American red snapper season comes to a close for charter captains on the third. So, we have been offshore just about every day. Red grouper, mangrove

hatchlings away from the water. • Don’t use flashlights, lanterns or camera flashes on the beach at night. • Remove all objects from the sand from sundown to sunrise; they can deter sea turtles from nesting and can disorient hatchlings. • Fill in the holes you dig in the sand and level sandcastles before leaving the beach; they can obstruct or trap nesting and hatching sea turtles, which cannot live long out of the water.

snapper, yellowtail snapper, red snapper, scamp grouper, and the occasional mahi are in the mix. The water in our area remains clear and we hope it stays that way. Good luck out there and tight lines.

• Don’t use wish lanterns or fireworks; they litter the beach and Gulf. • Do not trim trees and plants that shield the beach from lights. • Never touch a sea turtle; it’s the law. If you see people disturbing turtles, call the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission’s Wildlife Alert hotline at 888-404-FWCC (3922).

BIRD TIPS During bird nesting season, March through August, please follow these tips: • Never touch a shorebird chick, even if it’s wandering outside a staked nesting area. • Teach kids not to chase birds – if they’re disturbed, bird parents may abandon nests. • Don’t feed birds – our food is not good for their health, and it encourages them to fly at people aggressively.

• If birds are screeching and flying at you, you’re too close. • Avoid posted bird nesting areas and use designated walkways to the beach. • Keep pets away from bird nesting areas; dogs are not allowed on the beach by law. • Keep the beach clean; food scraps attract bird predators such as raccoons and crows to the beach, and litter can entangle birds and other wildlife. • If you see people disturbing nesting birds, call the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission’s Wildlife Alert hotline at 888-404-FWCC (3922).

NESTING NEWS Turtle nests laid: 402 (Record: 544 in 2019) False crawls: 547 Nests hatched: 35 Hatchlings hatched: 1021 (Record: 35,788 in 2018) Nest disorientations: 13

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2019 battery escalates to witness tampering A 2019 altercation has taken a turn as a homeless man charged with battery now stands convicted of tampering with his victim to prevent him from testifying. BY JASON SCHAFFER SUN CORRESPONDENT | jschaffer@amisun.com

BRADENTON BEACH - What began as a battery charge over a spilled bottle of vodka turned into William Clayton Corbitt’s conviction on battery and witness tampering. Corbitt, 41, a homeless man, pled no contest to felony battery and tampering with a witness on July 30, according to Manatee County Clerk of Circuit Court records. He was adjudicated guilty and placed on probation for 24 months with credit for time served in county jail. He also was ordered to complete an eight-week anger management class and perform 100 hours of community service work.

BEACH BEAT HOLMES BEACH

7/22, 7:02 p.m., death investigation, 201 35th St. While investigating a missing persons report, the officer got a radio call about a deceased subject four blocks away. The officer arrived at a rental unit and met with EMS who was already on the scene. The deceased was found in a chair in the breezeway of the building and upon inspection was found to be the person reported

On June 2, 2019, Bradenton Beach police responded to a fight in progress at Coquina Beach. They found the victim, Michael Ravenscraft, Corbitt covered in blood from a large gash on his face. Marine rescue workers responded to treat his injuries, then took him to Blake Hospital for stitches and further treatment. Before being transported by EMS, Ravenscraft told police that he had been sitting with a friend at a picnic table when Corbitt approached him. Corbitt and Ravenscraft talked about splitting a bottle of vodka but Ravenscraft left with the bottle, then returned and told Corbitt he had dropped it and there wasn’t any left in the bottle. An altercation then took place after Corbitt became upset about the missing vodka. He picked up a broken tree branch and struck Ravenscraft in the face,

causing what the police report called “permanent disfigurement” to Ravenscraft. Corbitt had fled the scene, but was located minutes later hiding under the Cortez bridge where he was arrested by Bradenton Beach police and taken to jail. A witness on the scene confirmed that Corbitt was the aggressor. The Manatee County State Attorney’s Office filed the case, and on Feb. 24, 2021, recorded calls from jail showed that Corbitt attempted to tamper with the victim in order to compel him not to testify. “Listen pops, I’m facing a PBL (punishable by life offense),” said Corbitt in the jail call to an unknown person. He went on to say that he was going to file for a speedy trial because if the prosecution didn’t have a warm body to testify, they would have to drop the case, according to court records. The defendant then told the subject on the phone to get somebody to help if he could.

missing. No trauma or signs of foul play were observed. 7/24, 2:55 a.m., camping/alcohol, 50th Street beach access. Officers observed a bike belonging to a man known to illegally camp on the beach. When officers approached the man after seeing him on the beach, he was asleep with an open bottle of wine next to him. The suspect was arrested and taken to the Manatee County jail. 7/24, 5:38 a.m., trespassing, 4000 Gulf Drive. A subject was observed sleeping on the beach. Officers issued the subject a trespass warning and told the subject to leave the area.

7/27, 1:38 a.m., city ordinance violation/alcohol, 5358 Gulf Drive. Two adults and six juveniles were observed in the parking lot of AMI Fitness. Police noticed an open container of alcohol and asked if they had more. One juvenile admitted there was more alcohol and marijuana in the vehicle. Officers were given consent to search the vehicle and found the alcohol and marijuana. Parents of the juveniles were called to pick them up, and the adult subject was given multiple citations for the city ordinance violations.

AUGUST 4, 2021

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THE SUN

Lucky Duck is back The Lucky Duck Race for Pace is back for 2021 and the Anna Maria Oyster Bar is asking for everyone’s help in raising money for the Pace Center for Girls Manatee. The race, which will take place on Aug. 28 on the Manatee River at Caddy’s at the Point, will involve about 25,000 “adopted” and numbered rubber ducks. The duck sponsorships start at $5 and will be available at any of the Anna Maria Oyster Bar locations. Those participating will get a chance

to win a 2-year lease on a new Jeep Wrangler (or $6,000 cash) provided by Firkins Chrysler Jeep Dodge Ram or a weekly dinner for two for one year at any AMOB location. The fundraising event will benefit the Pace Center, which is a nationally recognized, research-based, non-residential program that features a balanced emphasis on academics and social services, with a focus on the future for middle- and high-school-aged girls and young women.

THE SUN

REAL ESTATE

AUGUST 4, 2021

Are we starting to see a normal market?

’m starting to read in national publications that the real estate market is beginning to return to normal with more new listings hitting the market, especially in what is considered the luxury market. Well, if that’s true, no one told the homeowners and homebuyers in Manatee and Sarasota counties. But could this be a predictor of the future? According to Realtor.com, nationally new active listings for June were 43% less than June of last year - an improvement from May of this year, when the difference was 60% from May of last year. Those numbers do show a trend in more active listings nationwide. According to Realtor.com, this change is reflected in the new listing prices going down as well in June. In addition, Realtor.com is reporting that the number of new listings over $1 million jumped 17.5% for the week ended June 19 compared to the same week

Castles in the Sand LOUISE BOLGER last year. By comparison, new listings priced under $350,000 were down 7.4% for the same week. Obviously, lower-end homeowners never have the same flexibility that higher-end homeowners do, especially since many of the higher-end properties are second homes. Real estate analysts are taking the position that more houses are coming on the market particularly for high-end properties. Owners who decided not to list during the worst of the pandemic when it wasn’t practical to list their homes are now ready to move on. Also, even those homeowners who were not thinking about selling are now rethink-

ing their decision when they see the sale prices zooming up. That said, it is still a hot market with very low-interest rates for mortgages. However, per the National Association of Realtors, it is no longer a frenzy where the sky’s the limit. So, do homeowners in Manatee County believe any of this? It sure doesn’t appear that they do. April, May, and June’s new listings are stable at 797, 787 and 784, respectively. Pending numbers are also very close with April at 1,167, May at 1,180 and June at 1,080. And, there is certainly no negative effect on the median selling price at $405,000 for April, $400,000 for May and $405,305 for June. That said, the last three month’s new listings, pending listings and median single-family sale price appear to be leveling off. Is it buyer fatigue or are we about to see some changes? Florida has seen a large influx of new residents that started before the pandemic but has accelerated since. We are now the third-largest state

in population in the country and have attracted many northeastern homeowners and businesses, alike. So, will Florida follow the national trend? Maybe. A more normal market would be beneficial for everyone. I just don’t think we’re there yet, regardless of what may be happening in other parts of the country. Florida steps to its own drummer and has always surprised the high-end market in what is considered the more sophisticated areas of the country. But those days may be over. You don’t need to be a prophet to know that you can’t time the stock market and you can’t time the real estate market. If it’s the right time for you to sell for reasons beyond maximizing your profit, then you must do it. If it’s the right time for you to buy, you need to find the best possible property for your family and try and make it work financially. Thankfully, none of us are Nostradamus. Where’s the fun in being him, anyway?

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AUGUST 4, 2021

NEWS BRIEFS Coquina Beach market closing until November The popular market at Coquina Beach will be closed until November. The market, a favorite of both tourists and locals, features more than 100 vendors selling everything from artisan beef jerky to art and all-natural bug spray. It’s been open on Wednesdays and Fridays for the past few months but will take a break for the hot and stormy summer. “We get a lot of summer visitors, but as the kids go back to school and the season slows down, we just don’t see the traffic after school starts. Also, it’s hurricane season and we get the

storms,” said Nancy Ambrose, manager of the beach market who also said the artists that set up shop also need time to make more product after the busy season. The market closed July 30 and will reopen on Nov. 7 on Sundays only until December.

Reimagining Pine Avenue final report pending Traffic engineer Gerry Traverso is scheduled to present his Reimagining Pine Avenue final report and recommended solutions to the Anna Maria City Commission at 2 p.m. on Thursday, Aug. 19. Taking place at city hall, the meeting will be open to the public.

Salem and Cote serving on P&Z board Charles Salem has been appointed to serve on the city of Anna Maria’s Planning and Zoning Board and board member Maureen Cote has been reappointed to serve another term. The city commission took these actions on July 22.

Cortez Bridge presentation on Thursday’s agenda The Bradenton Beach City Commission will meet at 6 p.m. on Thursday, Aug. 5. The meeting will begin with a presentation by Joe McClash regarding the replacement of the Cortez Bridge. The commission will also discuss the installation of a Gulf Drive crosswalk near the Bermuda Bay Club and the Tortuga Inn beach resort.

THE SUN

NOISE: City buzzing about regulations FROM PAGE 5

would disturb them at night in their home. If so, he said officers can consider the noise complaint valid. Currently, officers use the plainly audible method in addition to noise meters and the seven noise standards already set out in the ordinance when responding to quiet hours noise complaints between 10 p.m. and 7 a.m. A motion to use the plainly audible standard during the day failed to achieve a consensus between commissioners. With increased enforcement, Tokajer said officers have issued more tickets in 2021 than in 2020, with 164 noise citations issued through the end of June. He said officers issued 330 citations all year in 2020. Commissioners agreed to move the first reading of the amended noise ordinance to a future meeting. Other changes being considered to the city’s noise regulations include a requirement to face a noise-producing device, such as a stereo or boom box, toward the rental unit where it is located to reduce noise to neighboring properties, and the placement of a sign reminding visitors that they’re renting in a residential neighborhood outside by pools. Both changes are under consideration to be added to the city’s vacation rental ordinance. Commissioners also instructed staff to look into options for obtaining a bond or some other financial security instrument for unpaid noise citations. Thus far, Tokajer said all noise citations issued have been paid. Commissioners agreed they’d like to get out in front of the potential problem of unpaid fines before it becomes an issue.

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THE SUN

AUGUST 4, 2021

RED TIDE: Feds issue warning for AMI, county FROM PAGE 1

SUBMITTED

Four hoteliers keep their seats on the TDC BY JASON SCHAFFER SUN CORRESPONDENT | jschaffer@amisun.com

BRADENTON – Four hoteliers have been reappointed to the Manatee County Tourist Development Council (TDC). In a meeting July 27, county commissioners voted to retain the four TDC members for another four-year term. The four members are: Ed Chiles, Juten Patel, Eric Cairns and Rahul Patel. Commissioners voted for each seat individually, meaning they could choose to keep the current member or replace them with an applicant who meets the criteria for membership and garners enough Board votes to take the seat. The TDC is made up of nine volunteer

members who make recommendations to the County Commission concerning the operation of projects set forth in the Tourist Development Plan. They also make recommendations on Tourist Development Tax revenue is spent. Members are appointed by the commission in the following categories: • Three elected officials; • Four owner/operators of hotels, motels or other short-term rental accommodations in Manatee County that are subject to the 5% resort tax; • Two citizens who are involved in the tourist industry and who have demonstrated an interest in tourism but are not subject to the 5% resort tax in Manatee County.

Medium levels were detected at Longboat Pass boat ramp on July 26, the Rod and Reel Pier in Anna Maria on July 26, the Seafood Shack Marina on July 22, and Key Royale on July 22. Low levels were detected at the Skyway Fishing Pier on July 26. Current forecasts are available at habforecast.gcoos.org and at visitbeaches.org. Red tide-related fish kills were reported over the past week in Manatee, Sarasota, Pinellas, Hillsborough, Charlotte, Lee and Collier counties. Health officials warn against swimming near dead fish, and advise keeping pets away from dead fish and seafoam, which can contain high

concentrations of algae. Pets are not allowed on Anna Maria Island’s beaches, but are allowed on the Palma Sola Causeway on Manatee Avenue. Officials also warn that consuming shellfish exposed to red tide can cause neurotoxic shellfish poisoning. Five conservation groups filed a lawsuit on June 24 against the owners of Piney Point and the Florida Department of Environmental Protection, claiming that the discharge of 215 million gallons of nutrient-rich wastewater from the Piney Point phosphogypsum stack in Manatee County could be feeding the algae bloom. The nutrients nitrogen and phosphorus act as fertilizer for the toxic red tide algae.

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New moratorium in effect on vehicle rental businesses For six months, no new lowspeed vehicle rental businesses are allowed to open in Holmes Beach under a newly passed moratorium. BY KRISTIN SWAIN

SUN STAFF WRITER | kswain@amisun.com

HOLMES BEACH – Concern about the number of low-speed vehicles in the city and the potential for incoming additional rental companies has prompted Holmes Beach commissioners to enact a six-month moratorium. The moratorium, approved in a 4-1 vote during a July 27 meeting with Commissioner Jim Kihm dissenting, blocks applications for new low-speed vehicle rental businesses coming into the Island city. It does not apply to current businesses or those with pending site plans, such as the pending application for The Toy Barn. Kihm said he feels that some discussion on the number of low-speed vehicles in the city may merit some conversation but he felt that a moratorium would be premature at this point. The issue was brought to the attention of commissioners by fellow Commissioner Jayne Christenson. She said she thinks the number of low-speed vehicles on city streets is dangerous, particularly with some people not wearing seat belts, piling more people in the vehicle than it safely seats and generally treating the vehicles as toys while on vacation. She suggested the moratorium as a way for city officials

KRISTIN SWAIN | SUN

The traffic caused by low-speed vehicle golf carts on main roads in Holmes Beach is one of the things being considered during the moratorium period. to research the problem and try to find a way to make city streets safer without allowing any new rental businesses to set up shop in Holmes Beach. City Attorney Patricia Petruff warned commissioners they need to manage their expectations concerning the moratorium, noting that while it does prevent a business from opening a brick-and-mortar location in the city, it doesn’t stop one from bringing vehicles in on a trailer to deliver them. When it was suggested the city require a business tax receipt (BTR) for anyone doing a business delivery in the city, it was quickly shot down because of the potential logistical and legal issues it would cause. Petruff said

it wasn’t realistic for commissioners to require a BTR for anyone delivering in the city because it wouldn’t just apply to low-speed vehicle renters but also food delivery and other services. Kihm said he would like to spend some time looking at what the issues are concerning the golf cart-like vehicles and mini cars rented by vacationers. And while he’s concerned about traffic, Kihm said moving vehicles through the Island cities is a multifaceted problem that’s going to need creative solutions. Commissioner Carol Soustek said she’s unsure of what the city can do as the low-speed vehicles are considered legal vehicles and the city cannot

regulate the number of vehicles on the road. Christenson said she’s heard a lowspeed vehicle rental business, one that’s already bringing vehicles into the city for rent without having a brickand-mortar location, ZoomAround, is considering purchasing the former Wells Fargo location at the corner of Marina and Gulf Drives. This is just in front of the Shops at Waterline, where The Toy Barn is planning to relocate if its site plan is approved by city leaders. Though the former Wells Fargo property is listed as off the market, no sales have been recorded according to Manatee County property appraiser records. For a vehicle rental business to open in the space, City Planner Bill Brisson said it would require a special exception for the change in use at the property from commissioners. The sale of the property also could negatively impact the Waterline Marina Resort and Beach Club, which has a lease with Wells Fargo for the use of 20 parking spaces for the resort and adjacent marina. Brisson said the parking spaces, which are part of the former bank property, are part of the required parking for the resort and marina. Commissioners instructed staff to send a letter with approval from Mayor Judy Titsworth to management at the Waterline resort to see what their plans are for the required parking spaces for the resort and marina.

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THE SUN

AUGUST 4, 2021

COVID: County administrator addresses third COVID-19 staff fatality FROM PAGE 9

mitigated that and we have developed new quarantine guidelines in collaboration with the Manatee County Department of Health,” Hopes said. “But people have to take personal responsibility. Vaccinations work. If you don’t want to be vaccinated, reduce your risk by staying away from people that you know may not be vaccinated. If you’re sick, don’t come to work and don’t come to school. I do believe in the freedom of decision and choice, but I also believe in public health we all have a personal responsibility for ourselves as well as our neighbors,” Hopes said. Still in the midst of a 10-day potential incubation period for his own exposure to a COVID-positive employee, Hopes said he’s been wearing a face mask when interacting with others inside the county administration building. He also said he’s fully vaccinated.

LATEST CDC NUMBERS

According to the CDC website, 21,683 new positive COVID-19 cases were reported in Florida on July 30. As of Sunday, more than 39,000 Floridians had died of symptoms associated with COVID-19, with 409 deaths reported statewide during the previous seven-day period. According to the CDC website as of Sunday, 1,547 new COVID-19 cases and fewer than 10 COVID-19 associated deaths were reported in Manatee County during the past seven days. During that seven-day period, positive cases in Manatee County increased by 56%, the percent positive of all those tested increased to 19.86% and there were 98 COVID-19 related hospitalizations. According to the CDC website, 187,359 Manatee County residents (46.4%) were fully vaccinated as of July 31.

COVID-19 sharply on the rise in Florida The CDC reported 21,683 new COVID-19 cases in Florida on July 30, the highest number of new cases since 30,531 new cases were reported on Jan. 2, 2021, which is the record high since the pandemic began in the state in March 2020.

TO REDUCE YOUR RISK:

• Get a COVID-19 vaccine • Wear a mask • Wash your hands • Avoid crowds; social distance • Clean and disinfect surfaces The Florida Department of Health in Manatee County and the Florida Division of Emergency Management offer

COVID-19 testing and vaccination at the Palmetto Bus Station, 1802 Eighth Ave. W. in Palmetto from 9 a.m.- 4 p.m. weekdays. Testing (including both PCR and rapid testing) and vaccinations (Moderna) are free, and no appointment is necessary. Visitors are asked to bring proof of Florida residency such as a driver’s license or utility bill with a Florida address. For more information, call 941-242-6646. Vaccinations are also available at CVS, Publix, Walgreens, Walmart and Winn-Dixie stores. Source: Florida Department of Health, CDC

OWNER: 'Eat elsewhere' if you're not vaccinated FROM PAGE 1

introduced me to two brothers in Denmark whose father specialized in viral air purification who developed a unit that uses a massive fan to move air which is filtered through ultraviolet light, a HEPA filter and ionization.” In addition to the floor units, Murphy also upgraded the air conditioning in the restaurant to use the same technology and move inside air out and outside air in. All of the air in the restaurant is replaced every three to four minutes. “My goal is to be the safest restaurant in America,” said Murphy, who

hopes his efforts will encourage other restaurants to do what he is doing. In addition to the air filtration, all of Murphy’s employees at Beach Bistro and The Doctor’s Office - which is following the same policies - have been vaccinated. The restaurateur brought the vaccinations to the employees at the establishment and rewarded each employee with a $100 bonus for getting the vaccine. Murphy says diners have responded positively to the policy, with nine out of 10 people fine with it, he said. But the people who don’t like it have been especially unpleasant in their responses.

JASON SCHAFFER | SUN

Sean Murphy, owner of Beach Bistro, The Doctor’s Office and Eat Here in Holmes Beach, is all for the COVID-19 vaccination. “There’s a nasty little streak on Facebook that’s calling us communists

and fascists. One person even said they wanted to get COVID then come here and eat,” Murphy said. The restaurant can’t legally ask for proof of vaccination, Murphy said. Under Florida Senate Bill 2006, passed in May and made effective on July 1, businesses are not allowed to require customers to provide documentation of COVID-19 vaccination. But Beach Bistro is reservation only, and when his staff asks if diners have been vaccinated and they say “yes,” Murphy said he believes they are being honest.

PROJECT: Additional services authorized for flood control project FROM PAGE 8

foundations, Stevens said, “When you’re on an Island and it’s flat there is zero room for error. These underdrains we’re talking about, they’re going to have to be exceptionally well thought out. You have to select the underdrain pipe based on what we’re looking at onsite. This isn’t a one-size-fits all. It has to be extremely detailed for this to work.” Stevens also addressed rapid filtration, swales and other potential means of implementing flood control improvements. After acknowledging that water filtration is an important and legally required component of the proposed project, Mayor John Chappie said, “The residents’ main concern is get the

water out of here.” After two more hours of additional discussion, the commission unanimously supported Commissioner Jake Spooner’s motion to authorize Colliers Engineering and Utility Consultants of Florida to design the stormwater resiliency project at a cost not to exceed the $36,000 set forth in the fee schedule included UCOF’s response to the city’s request for additional stormwater engineering services. When contacted later, City Attorney Ricinda Perry said Burnett’s engineering services for the $2.1 million state-funded project totaled more than $168,000. Perry recently requested and received FDEP permission to exceed the percentage of the total project cost

BRIDGE STREET CROSSWALKS

JOE HENDRICKS | SUN

Colliers Engineering will assist with the replacement of the failing brick paver crosswalks on Bridge Street allowed for design and engineering services – and to later spend slightly less on the actual construction of the agreed upon flood control improvements.

The commission also recently decided to utilize UCOF and Colliers Engineering to provide additional engineering and design services for the replacement of the failing brick paver crosswalks on Bridge Street. Designed by Burnett, the previously installed brick pavers are sinking and create a tripping hazard for pedestrians. The concrete ribbons that border crosswalks are also failing and have created a bumpy surface for motor vehicles to pass over. According to Perry, the brick paver crosswalks will be removed replaced stamped concrete crosswalks.

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AUGUST 4, 2021

THE SUN

County’s red tide response appreciated BY JOE HENDRICKS SUN CORRESPONDENT | jhendricks@amisun.com

ANNA MARIA – Anna Maria Mayor Dan Murphy appreciated the assistance District 3 County Commissioner Kevin Van Ostenbridge and County Administrator Scott Hopes recently provided regarding the removal of dead fish and marine life from the Anna Maria shoreline. Red tide was the expected cause of the marine life deaths. Murphy expressed his gratitude during the Thursday, July 22, city commission meeting, adding that the dead fish and marine life were first spotted the previous day. “We have had some fish kill out here on the beach – a couple of beautiful, big groupers on the beach, which means they’re coming in from deep water. A lot of eels, sardines and things like that on the beach. It started at the city line down by Holmes Beach, by White Avenue, and it came all the way up to about Sycamore. And there was some up on Bean Point, as well,” Murphy said.

165012

JOE HENDRICKS | SUN

Mayor Dan Murphy expressed his appreciation during the July 22 commission meeting. “We don’t have machinery to do the clean-up on the Gulf of Mexico. I called the county. They said it’s not funded and it couldn’t happen. So, I called our county commissioner, Kevin Van Ostenbridge. He made two or three phone calls and sent me a text message that said we’ll be there tomorrow morning. Today, they were there. I was most impressed that they responded

so quickly. Dr. Scott Hopes came out here and he physically road the beach with Dean (Jones) and evaluated the beach. He said we needed help right away. I was very grateful to the county. They do a lot of good for us. We’re getting things done. To me, it’s a very effective partnership,” Murphy said.

THE SUN

SPORTS

AUGUST 4, 2021

Youth indoor soccer excitement at The Center prevented the TMT offense from scoring more than 12 points. For the second time in the night, the mercy rule ended a game with minutes on the scoreboard. With five weeks left in the regular season, the adult flag football championship title is still up for grabs. The final championship play is scheduled to end with the final game of the season at 6:30 p.m. on Thursday, Sept. 23.

BY MONICA SIMPSON SPECIAL TO THE SUN

In Tuesday night youth indoor soccer action, team Moss Builders and team Shady Lady took the floor for two halves of strong shooting, fierce defense and amazing team play by all. The Moss brothers did the scoring for the Moss Builders team, with the support of the Guesses and the rest of the squad. Aiden Guess finished the game with one assist, while brother Austin kept the opponent’s scoring to three goals with seven recorded saves. Mason Moss started the scoring in the first half of play for his team. The Shady Lady defense worked hard to keep Moss’ shooting to a minimum. In goal for Shady Lady, Cale Rudacille made four critical stops and teammate Jack Zaccagnino saved seven Moss Builders shots. One of the strikes by Myles Moss eluded goalkeeper Zaccagnino, igniting the spectators at The Center. Three of the Shady Lady powerhouses did the scoring in the game. Amelia Blunkall, Cale Rudacille and Jack McCarthy each had solo goals, giving the team the lead for most of the game. In the final minutes of the

SUN SCOREBOARD TUESDAY, JULY 27 YOUTH INDOOR SOCCER 8- TO 11-YEAR-OLD LEAGUE

MONICA SIMPSON | SUN

Shady Lady’s goalkeeper Jack Zaccagnino nearly stopped the powerful shot of Moss Builders’ Myles Moss in last Tuesday’s youth indoor soccer game at The Center. game, Mason Moss scored the third point for the Moss Builder team to tie the game. Each side’s defense fought hard, preventing the other from scoring up to the final buzzer. The final games of the indoor soccer season will be played on Aug. 10 at The

Center, leading to a season champion. Last week in adult flag football at the Island’s community center, two teams in the league dominated the gridiron. Both Rays Ramblings and Cortez Deep Sea Fishing not only stopped their opponent’s

offense but also crushed it during their games. With a final score of 42-6, the game was ended with time on the clock with the mercy rule employed, giving Beach Bums their second loss in the season. Rays Ramblings took it to the endzone for 47 points and

Moss Builders Shady Lady

(3-0-2) 3 (2-2-1) 3

Beach Bums Solid Rock Construction

(3-1-1) 4 (0-5-0) 2

THURSDAY, JULY 29 ADULT CO-ED FLAG FOOTBALL Cortez Deep Sea Fishing Beach Bums

(2-0) 42 (0-2) 6

Sandbar Catalyst

(0-2) 26 (2-0) 28

TMT Rays Ramblings

(0-2) 12 (1-1) 47

We The Best Lending (1-1) 12 TBT (2-0) 40

AUGUST 4, 2021

FUN IN THE SUN

Across 1 "... harmony in the motion and magnitude of the __ ... ": Copernicus 5 Out, perhaps 9 Maintain 14 Stable newborn 15 Particle in a beam 16 Lifetime parent 17 Asian tourist city 18 Initial game payment 19 Lengthy sentence 20 What included a top hat, for Lincoln? 23 Prohibition __ 24 Support gp. founded under FDR 25 Like Yosemite's El Capitan 26 Unvarnished inventions? 31 P&L report column 32 Symbol of ease 33 Part of a baby's Answers to 07-28-21 Crossword Puzzle.

repertoire 34 Stops lying? 37 One often stands alone in a split 38 Devote, as time 40 Gp. inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame in 2017 41 They're often seen on trees 42 Disposed of 43 Citi Field catcalls? 48 "The Night They Invented Champagne" composer 49 Mentalist Geller 50 Sch. in Manhattan 53 Joe-induced speaking clarity? 57 Get around 58 Food stamp? 59 67, for Beethoven's Fifth 60 Invisible turnout?

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61 Unlikely 62 Olive Oyl's mother 63 Wound up 64 Goes after 65 Go around in circles? Down 1 18 or 21, typically 2 Court rival of Rafael 3 Bill for shots 4 Picket fence piece 5 Assembled 6 Small chocolate-covered candy 7 Classic accusation 8 Moccasin leather 9 Asked for ID 10 Victory wreath 11 Lestat de Lioncourt creator 12 Promises at the altar 13 YMCA part 21 Mongolian tents 22 Butter used to deepfry samosas 27 Agreement word 28 Mimicry 29 Geological time span 30 Scandinavian roofing material 34 Whistle-blower 35 Down with the flu 36 Deep South cuisine 37 Pesto ingredients 38 Poker-faced 39 Nave seat 41 New Zealand bird

42 Reception aids 44 1959 Fiestas hit 45 Followed 46 Confused mess 47 Ubiquitous YouTube

button ... and a hint to four long Across answers 51 Squeak or creak 52 Take back

53 Prop for Chaplin 54 The Bard's river 55 Biblical hunter 56 Atmosphere

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CLASSIFIED

ANNOUNCEMENTS

FISHING CHARTERS

BEACH YOGA ON Saturdays & Sundays at 8:30am at the end of Pine Ave by the Sandbar Restaurant by donation. www. thriveyogafit.com

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

STARTING A 9 PERSON Stock Club. Each person would invest $300. LBK & AMI. Call Bill for details 941-706-4809 AMI TURTLE WATCH needs donations & silent action items for our FUNDRAISER. We can pick up! Call or text Linda 863-2871133 THE BEST VOLUNTEER position on the island. The AMI Historical Museum needs docents and bread makers. Call Kathy Primeau at 989-560-6381. ROSER FOOD BANK needs donations of cash and non-perishable food, PAPER & PERSONAL HYGIENE PRODUCTS. Donations boxes are located at the Church, Moose Club, and Walgreen’s.

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

CLEANING SERVICE THC CLEANING : Residential, Commercial, Rentals, VRBO. Professional and Reliable. Call 941-756-4570 or 941565-3931

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

Call us today! 941-778-3986

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

STRAIGHT SHOT LANDSCAPE. Specializing in Old Florida Seashell driveways and scapes. Also Rock, Mulch, & Soil. Free estimates. Call Shark Mark 941-301-6067 ISLAND RESIDENT. TREE/ BUSH Trimming, removal. Sweeping, blowing, weeding. Weekly, bi-monthly or monthly schedule. Pressure washing: driveways, walkways, fences, pool decks/ cages. Call Bill Witaszek 941-307-9315.

LOST & FOUND

TILE! TILE! TILE! All variations of tile supplied and installed. Quality workmanship. Prompt, reliable, many Island references. Free estimates. Neil 941-726-3077

FOUND TURTLE INLAYED silver/platinum ring with inscription ( Pease identity text to confirm). Found on Palm Harbor Dr near Manatee Public Beach. Call 540-312-5299.

RENOVATION SPECALIST ALL carpentry repairs, Wash Family Construction, locally owned and operated CBC 1258250 Call 941-7250073.

LOST ON MANATEE BEACH. 18" herringbone chain (4mm thick, square link, round clasp, 10k) with 3/4" Spanish gold coin pendant. Please call 585-755-3894. Contact Dennis

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. “HAMMERED HOMES” (SAVING HOMES SINCE 1984) Handyman services, renovations. Free Estimates & Consulting. Call before making decision, save money. 941-778-3206

LANDSCAPING & LAWN CARE R. GAROFALO’S Interlocking brick pavers, driveways, patios, pool decks. Free estimates. Licensed & Insured. Call Rafael 941-778-4823 or Veronik 941-526-7941

LOST MEN'S GOLD wedding band in shallow water just south of new rock groin on beer can island. Very sentimental. Reward, call 941-504-0526

MOVING & STORAGE MARTIN’S MOVING YOUR Island movers! Offering dependable, competitive rates. No hidden costs. 941-809-5777.

PAINTING & WALLCOVERING PAINT! PAINT! AND MORE 28 years of experienced interior/ exterior custom painting. Pressure cleaning, drywall repairs and texture finishes. Many Island references. Please call Neil for free estimates. 941-812-0507 “WIZARD OF WALLS” Established 1980 Prompt quality service. Paperhanging/removal Faux finishes. Interior painting. Mary Bell Winegarden 941-794-0455 PROFESSIONAL PAINTING SERVICES. Prompt & Reliable. Island Resident. Quality Workmanship. Interior/Exterior. Also minor repairs & carpentry. Free written detailed estimates. Bill Witaszek 941-307-9315

AUGUST 4, 2021

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

POOL SERVICES FOUR SEASONS POOL SERVICE AND CHEMICAL SERVICES. Certified Pool Operator. 10 + Years Experience. Residential/commercial. Chemical Service Licensed & Insured. Call Dennis Clark 941-7375657 COLE'S TROPICAL POOL SERVICE Call Cole Bowers for all your pool maintenance needs! Affordable and Dependable!! 941-7131893

PRESSURE WASHING & WINDOWS AUTHORITY ONE CLEANING : Residential, Commercial, Construction, Vacation, VRBO Rentals . Also available Pressure Washing, Roof Cleaning, Paver Sealing and Windows. Call 941565-3931. “HOT” SUMMER DEAL! 25% off any individual pressure washing work! Anna Maria Island, Bradenton & Long Boat Key. Insured. Call Dewayne 717-773-7303

REAL ESTATE HOMES & CONDOS FOR SALE Have you been thinking of selling? We NEED properties to List for SALE!!! GULF FRONT, CANAL FRONT, BAY FRONT CONDOS or HOMES ASK for BIG Alan Galletto of Island Real Estate to get it SOLD 941-232-2216 LOOKING FOR A highly motivated real estate broker to buy or sell your next home? Darcie Duncan, Broker Duncan Real Estate a lifelong island resident bringing success to her customers for 30 years. Proven track record brings you results! 941-725-1589

REALTOR FOR HIRE. BUYING OR SELLING on AMI? 17 years experience & USAF Veteran. Call Kelly Gitt Keller Williams Realty today 941-799-9299. PALMA SOLA PARK. 3BR/2BA 2 car garage. Large yard. Move in ready. $525,000 make offer. Call 941-405-7138

RENTALS: ANNUAL ANNUAL RENTALS WANTED! We have well qualified tenants for beach and mainland annual rentals, Full management or Finders fee. Call today for details. Ask for Paige DUNCAN REAL ESTATE 513-3821992.

RENTAL WANTED SEEKING AMI ANNUAL RENTAL Call Kelly Gitt Keller Williams Realty 941799-9299 SWEET FAMILY IN NEED of an annual rental on the island. We've been renting on the island for 3 years. Our kids go to school on the island. Please help keep us here! 3/4 bedrooms, unfurnished, with pool. Call Fallon 706-2026141.

RENTALS: SEASONAL & VACATION TIFFANY PLACE Gulf Front Condo for Rent Incredible views from living room and master bedroom. 2BR/2BA Green Real Estate Call 941-778-0455

ANNA MARIA ISLAND CONDOS Large pool, beach access, free WiFi, 1&2 Bedroom $700/$800/$900 a wk. redekercondosonami. com Tim 941-704-7525 ANNA MARIA ISLAND, Updated 5 Star Condo for Rent- Available September October November. (Multimonth discount) Million$ water view, first floor, 2BR/2BA, patio, walk to beach, pool, tennis (smoke free) marketreps@aol. com Boat/jet ski dock available

TRANSPORTATION AMI TAXI metered-on-callcards accepted. Airport: Tampa $95, Sarasota $40, Clearwater $85, Orlando $195. Call 941-447-8372 or 941-447-8376. amitaxi4u@ gmail.com, www.amitaxi. com ANYTIME TRANSPORTATION to all Airports, Casino, etc. Tampa $70. Sarasota $35. Pets welcome. Very dependable. Reasonable rates. Contact Jeanne. 941-779-5095 AIRPORT RIDES- Tampa, St. Pete, Sarasota. Reasonable rates! Call or text Anna 941-932-1600

FREE

HOME DELIVERY

AVAILABLE AUGUST 1. Monthly rental. Fully furnished newly remodeled., beahcy 2BR/1BA washer dryer. 2.5 miles to beach off Cortez. Close to shopping dining. Quiet area. Across the street from bay. $2300 mo. thru December. Call 941-773-1552. Deposit and cleaning fee. SEASONAL RENTAL in PALMA SOLA. 3BR/2BA weekly or monthly rates. Contact Barb Grace 941201-2190

Call for Details

778-3986

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BUSINESS & SERVICE DIRECTORY HOME IMPROVEMENT

HOME IMPROVEMENT

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

TRANSPORTATION

PAINTING

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