Anna Maria Island Sun January 26, 2022

- Named Best Florida Newspaper In Its Class -

VOL 22 No. 16

January 26, 2022

Celebrating 40 years at the Island Library

The Island Branch Library’s building turns 40 this year and the Friends of the Island Library are planning several community events to commemorate the occasion.

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

KRISTIN SWAIN | SUN

HOLMES BEACH – Though it’s been around since 1965, the Island Branch Library’s doors officially opened at its current location in 1982, making this year one to be celebrated.

For the 40th anniversary of the library’s location at 5701 Marina Drive, the Friends of the Island Library are working with library staff to plan some special events for the community to help celebrate the library and its positive contributions to the community.

Branch Supervisor Aileen Valdes and Friends of the Island Library President Julie Perry are working together to plan some fun events for the community to celebrate 40 years in the library’s current location.

SEE LIBRARY, PAGE 6

County opens new COVID-19 testing site Anyone wishing to receive a COVID-19 test has a new option in a county-run test site.

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

MANATEE COUNTY – A new COVID-19 testing site is now available at the SUNZ insurance building, 1301 Eighth Ave. in downtown Bradenton.

The new location offers free PCR and rapid testing at a walk-up site open seven days a week from 7 a.m. to 7 p.m. Anyone wishing to be tested is asked to provide a form of governmentissued photo identification, such as a driver’s license or passport.

No appointments are necessary, though you can save time and preregister by going online to https://mdc. nomihealth.com/signup/fl/sunz.

INSIDE NEWS OUTDOORS CASTLES IN THE SAND REAL ESTATE RESTAURANTS SPORTS CLASSIFIEDS

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Another county-run COVID-19 test site is at the Bradenton Area Convention Center at 1 Haben Blvd. in Palmetto, which is also open seven days a week from 7 a.m. to 7 p.m.

For anyone who wants a more convenient, free COVID-19 testing option, you can submit a form to receive one set of four free at-home COVID-19 tests. The tests are available online at special.usps.com/testkits or covidtests. gov and are limited to one order per residential address. Each order contains four individual rapid antigen tests and will begin shipping in late January.

If you’re one of the people who have managed to find a rapid COVID-19 test in stores, check with your insurance company; they might be able to provide you a refund for the cost of the tests.

SEE COVID, PAGE 26

Rentals not complying with trash pickup rules Bradenton Beach’s Transient Public Lodging Establishment ordinance requires side yard trash pickup for vacation rentals.

BY JOE HENDRICKS SUN CORRESPONDENT | jhendricks@amisun.com

BRADENTON BEACH – City officials are unhappy about the lack of compliance with the city’s side yard trash pickup requirements for vacation rentals.

Bradenton Beach Mayor John Chappie has repeatedly voiced his displeasure about the accumulation of trash containers alongside city streets, and on Thursday, Jan. 20, the city commission and city staff discussed these issues at length.

Building Official Steve Gilbert said the city’s solid waste ordinance and Transient Public Lodging Establishment (TPLE) ordinance are not consistent with one an-

other regarding side yard pickup requirements. He suggested the city attorney review the two ordinances, and for code enforcement purposes, he suggested revising the solid waste ordinance.

The city’s TPLE ordinance requires vacation rental operators to request and obtain side yard pickup service for their trash. Anyone seeking an exemption must submit a written request to the city clerk for city commission approval. The TPLE ordinance also requires the location of vacation rental trash containers to be posted inside the rental unit.

The city’s solid waste ordinance states trash containers must be placed for collection by 6 a.m. on the scheduled pickup day and must be removed by 8 p.m. that night. That ordinance also says trash containers are to be placed in the curbside right of way unless otherwise approved by SEE RENTALS, PAGE 27

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Volunteers needed for Cortez Commercial Fishing Festival The FISH board of directors addresses the need for volunteers and other issues related to the upcoming Cortez Commercial Fishing Festival.

BY JASON SCHAFFER SUN CORRESPONDENT | jschaffer@amisun.com

CORTEZ - If you've ever wanted to be a part of the Cortez Commercial Fishing Festival, now is your chance.

Volunteers are needed for a variety of jobs associated with the annual celebration, which is scheduled in the village on Saturday, Feb. 19 and Sunday, Feb. 20.

“We still need 25 to 30 more volunteers,” said FISH Treasurer Jane von Hahmann. “If you’d like to volunteer, we need help with gate entry, tickets and maybe T-shirt sales.”

The Florida Institute for Saltwater Heritage (FISH) board held a special meeting

FILE PHOTO

Plenty of fresh, local seafood will be available at this year's Fishing Festival, just as it was in this photo from the 2019 celebration. last week to go over some last-minute issues for the popular festival, which draws thousands of visitors annually to the small fishing village.

Details ironed out in the meeting include parking issues, placing of signs and dealing with an increase in cost for just about ev-

erything. The same supply chain issues that are driving up prices in the grocery store and at the gas pump are also having an effect on

events such as this. Even though costs have risen, the price for this year’s festival will remain at $5, after having been increased from $4 three years ago. The festival is asking for a $5 donation to the local Boy Scouts for parking.

The Cortez Commercial Fishing Festival is held to celebrate the heritage of commercial fishing in Cortez, Florida’s oldest fishing village. This year’s theme is “Gearing Up,” a reference made by fishermen when getting their gear ready to go out on the water. Plenty of live music, great food, wine and beer, arts and crafts and education will be on hand for the 40th edition of the festival. There was no festival last year due to COVID-19.

If you would like to volunteer, please contact Angela Collins at abcollins@ufl.edu or call 941-301-4000.

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ISLAND NEWS

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JANUARY 26, 2022

Fundraiser started for helpful mechanic

IN BRIEF

Keith Alvarez and his family are members of CrossPointe Fellowship in Holmes Beach.

BY JOE HENDRICKS SUN CORRESPONDENT | jhendricks@amisun.com

SUBMITTED | ROSER CHURCH

The Jan. 29 pancake breakfast will be the first held at Roser in almost two years.

Welcome the weekend with pancakes Start the weekend off right with a hot pancake breakfast, no clean up required. Roser Memorial Community Church is bringing back its popular pancake breakfast from 8-11 a.m. on Saturday, Jan. 29. For $7 each, attendees can enjoy hot pancakes, sausage, syrup, melted butter, biscuits, gravy and applesauce with juice, coffee and tea. Breakfast is free for kids under the age of 5.

After breakfast, stroll across the street to the Roser Guild Thrift Shop and check out all of the bargains on books, clothes, shoes and home goods. The church is at 512 Pine Ave. in Anna Maria. Volunteers also are needed for the event. Visit www.roserchurch.com/pancake-breakfast for more information or to sign up to volunteer.

New committee focuses on research HOLMES BEACH – Members of the city’s newest ad-hoc committee have their sights set on improving water quality in and around Anna Maria Island, but they want to do their research before making any recommendations to city commissioners.

At a Jan. 13 meeting, the Clean Water Ad-Hoc Committee members discussed their goals for the group and decided to start their quest to improve water quality by first gathering data and doing research. The data collection is planned to focus on water testing results. Committee members also tasked themselves with researching existing regulations and identifying potential and known issues that could be adversely affecting the area’s water and water table. They’re also developing a list of other similarly minded organizations that they can partner with to collect and share information.

Clean water committee members are from all over Anna Maria Island and Manatee County but they meet at Holmes Beach City Hall, 5801 Marina Drive.

Free animal crates available Wildlife Education and Rehabilitation Center Inc. has approximately 10 smaller-sized animal crates that are compatible for a cat or small dog. The free crates are available on a first-come, first-served basis. For more information call 941-778-6324. Wildlife Inc. is at 2207 Ave. B in Bradenton Beach.

ANNA MARIA ISLAND – Mobile automobile mechanic and handyman Keith Alvarez is known around Anna Maria Island for his mechanical expertise and his willingness to help others.

Alvarez, 54, a Bradenton resident, has been diagnosed with prostate cancer that will soon require prostate removal surgery and a recovery period during which he’ll be unable to work and fully support his family.

He and his wife, Paula, and their daughter, Olivia, are members of the CrossPointe Fellowship church in Holmes Beach. CrossPointe Fellowship members Ed Saxe and Carla Ballew are among those who want to help the man who has helped so many others.

“Carla and I talked and said we have to do something. She agreed to set up a GoFundMe account and I placed some ads in the newspaper,” Saxe said.

“Keith has helped me numerous times, and not only with my vehicle.

He’s an excellent mechanic, but in addition to that he helps people with anything they need. He’s very handy.

He’s done so many things for me,” Saxe said.

As a snowbird who lived in Pennsylvania and owned a second home in Bradenton Beach, Saxe, 79, had been coming to Anna Maria Island for 44 years. In May, he sold his Bradenton Beach home, bought a home in Bradenton and had his Pennsylvania possessions delivered there. Alvarez met the U-Haul driver at Saxe’s new home and helped unload the truck and put his belongings in place for him.

“He’s so generous and humble,” Saxe said. “He’s going to come next week to put a part in my washer, replace a part on my ice dispenser, hang a hammock and do some other things. There’s nothing this man can’t do. He’s just an incredible man. I can’t say enough about him.”

Before moving to Bradenton, Ballew, 79, and her husband lived part-

KEITH ALVAREZ | SUBMITTED

Keith Alvarez, right, loves spending time with his wife, Paula, and their daughter, Olivia. time in Anna Maria from 1994 to 2006 while also living in Illinois.

“We’ve known Keith a long time.

He goes to the same church we go to.

That’s how we originally got to know him,” Ballew said. “Then we needed some car work done. My husband was going through cancer treatments in 2013 and those were some pretty rough times. We had to go to Moffitt (cancer treatment center in Tampa).

We had an older car with almost 300,000 miles on it and Keith always made sure it was in good running condition. He either didn’t charge us or he charged us less than what it would have normally cost.

“He’s an all-around great guy who’s helped a lot of people. He doesn’t advertise. People who know him tell others about him and that’s how he makes his living,” she said. “The doctor says he cannot work during his recovery period and he’s the sole supporter of his family. We want to do this for him because he’s helped so many people, including those who are less fortunate. He’s willing to do anything for anybody, even if they can’t pay him. Now he needs our help.”

Ballew recently started the “Help Keith Alvarez Through Cancer Treatment” GoFundMe online fundraiser that includes the following message: “I hope and pray that all who see this will find it in their hearts to give back to Keith while he is going through this difficult chapter in his life. Cancer is

an illness that calls for expensive treatments which are not always covered by insurance. Therefore, if you are able, be generous in your giving to allow Keith and his family to have peace of mind while they concentrate on the healing rather than worrying about how to support the family and pay the bills.”

HELPING THE HELPFUL

As a mobile automobile mechanic, Alvarez’s work area includes Bradenton, Anna Maria Island and Longboat Key. “My main work is as a mobile automotive mechanic as far as making a living for myself and my family,” he said. “From there, I’ve got various people that I do things for. I may start my day out doing a brake job and finish my day out unclogging a toilet, fixing a garbage disposal and things like that.”

“I have been blessed with a backlog of mechanical work without having to advertise. My wife and I live very meagerly. We made that decision years ago when we were both saved, that we were going to help others as they’ve helped us in the past,” he added.

Alvarez expects to have his surgery in about six weeks.

“I had to get some tests done. They also found a spot on my lung as well, so they’re looking into that before they SEE ALVAREZ, PAGE 16

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JANUARY 26, 2022

THE SUN

The Sun wins five statewide awards SUN STAFF REPORT ANNA MARIA ISLAND – The Anna Maria Island Sun has earned five awards in the Florida Press Club’s 2021 Excellence in Journalism Competition at a virtual ceremony on Jan. 22.

Political cartoonist Steve Borggren won first and second place in the Editorial Cartooning category for cartoons depicting the environmental fallout from the dumping of wastewater at Piney Point into Tampa Bay and the first day of school for Anna Maria Elementary School children during the COVID-19 pandemic.

The Sun’s 20th-anniversary issue on Dec. 30, 2020, won second place in the “Special Sections” category, highlighting stories including the demolition of the iconic pier at Manatee Beach, overdevelopment on the Island, environmental disasters such as red tide, the Deepwater

Horizon oil spill and Piney Point, two murders, a hurricane, a treehouse built illegally on the beach and the pandemic.

Cindy Lane won second place in the "That is So...

Florida" category for a 20th-anniversary issue story compiling the quirky things that have happened on Anna Maria Island over the years, such as a mannequin being “kidnapped,” beheaded and left on the beach and Bradenton Beach mayoral candidates deciding a tie race by cutting playing cards.

The Sun’s website, amisun. com, won second place in the “Affiliated News Site” category. The site offers readers breaking news, updates on stories in between weekly print editions, more in-depth coverage of some complex stories, photo galleries of Island events, archives of past editions and easy access to beach reports and other subjects of local interest.

FILE PHOTO

The Sun’s 20th-anniversary issue won an award in the Special Sections category of the Florida Press Club’s 2021 Excellence in Journalism Competition. Cartoonist Steve Borggren won two awards in the Florida Press Club’s 2021 Excellence in Journalism Competition.

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OPINION

The Anna Maria Island Sun newspaper 3909 East Bay Drive, Suite 210, Holmes Beach, FL, 34217 Phone: (941) 778-3986 email: news@amisun.com | ads@amisun.com | classifieds@amisun.com

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The Anna Maria Island Sun Staff 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 Leslie Ketchum Distribution Bob Alexander Tony McNulty Connor Field Contributors Tom Vaught Steve Borggren Monica Simpson

LIBRARY: Celebrating 40 years at Island Library FROM PAGE 1

Kicking off the fun for the winter/ spring season is the Friendssponsored lecture and travel series, held this year in the fellowship hall at Roser Memorial Community Church to accommodate more people and social distancing.

The popular lecture series continues each Thursday at 2 p.m. into March.

Upcoming lectures include Dr. Tim Berra and “All Things Bourbon” on Jan. 27, “Dive into Reading” with John and Amanda Horne on Feb. 3, Mary Scharf and “Southeast Guide Dogs” on Feb. 10, “Walking the Inca Trail” on Feb. 17 with Joe Arena, Robert Gaglio and “Venice Empire from the Lagoon” on March 3 and Dr. Beth Brady’s “All About Manatees” presentation on March 17.

The very popular Friends of the Island Library book sale is planned outdoors in the library’s parking lot on Saturday, Feb. 26.

Friends President Julie Perry said that this year’s book sale should be one of the best ever as many books have been donated for the event. Donations of gently used hardcover and paperback books, DVDs and children’s books are welcome and can be dropped off at the Island Branch Library during business hours or deposited in the after-hours book return drop box.

Proceeds from the book sale, as

well as the Friends membership drive, are being used to help fund the many community programs that the group sponsors and purchase new furniture for the library. An open house anniversary celebration for the library is being planned this spring for the community when a check from the Friends for the new furniture will be presented.

The book sale isn’t the only time the community can take home a book from the library without having to worry about returning it.

A carousel of beach-read books is available in the library every day for free along with a selection of books near the front of the library available for purchase.

Another way the Friends are encouraging the community to get involved and celebrate the library’s 40th anniversary is through a new program called “An Appetite for Books,” in which local eateries and the library promote each other. The program, launching Jan. 30, has four sponsors this year. Ginny and Jane E’s is the first sponsor partner from Jan. 30 through Feb. 5. On Feb. 10, the Friends are partnering with Pizza Social. Feb. 13-19 will feature Hometown Desserts and the final restaurant partner for this year is the Blue Marlin from Feb. 20-26.

In partnering with the Anna Maria Island Chamber of Commerce’s Trolley Grant Awards, Branch Supervisor Aileen Valdes said that the

library will be home to Sprout backpacks, early literacy and STEM kits for children up to age eight. The kits can be checked out by parents or guardians and help foster learning through books, toys and other objects. The Sprout backpacks will be exclusive to the Island Branch Library and can be checked out by anyone with a Manatee County library card.

Valdes said that to be a member of the Manatee County library system, you either need to present picture identification with a Manatee County address, provide proof of owning or renting a residence in the county or pay the $25 annual fee for a non-resident library card.

To join the Friends of the Island Library, visit the library to fill out a membership card or go online to www.friendsoftheislandlibrary.org.

Annual membership tiers go from $10 for an individual, $15 for a family membership, $25 for a library lover, $50 for a patron membership, $100 for a benefactor and up to $300 to have your name or the name of a loved one inscribed on a brick on the library’s honor wall.

All Friends memberships at levels of $25 or more come with a tote bag, though a tote bag can also be purchased at the library for $10.

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JANUARY 26, 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.

Jan. 27, 6 p.m.

City Commission meeting Feb. 10, 2 p.m.

City Commission meeting

BRADENTON BEACH

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

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

Feb. 2, 9:30 a.m. – Community Redevelopment Agency meeting Feb. 2, 2 p.m. – Scenic WAVES meeting Feb. 3, 6 p.m. – City Commission meeting

HOLMES BEACH

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

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

Jan. 27, 11:30 a.m. – Police officers pension board Feb. 2, 10 a.m. – Parks and Beautification committee meeting

Feb. 8, 5 p.m. – City Commission meeting followed by work session Feb. 9, 10 a.m. – Clean Water AdHoc committee meeting Feb. 9, 5 p.m. – Planning Commission meeting MARKYOUR CALENDAR

WEDNESDAY, JAN. 26

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

Ukulele Instruction Beyond Beginner, Island Branch Library, 5701 Marina Drive, Holmes Beach, 1 p.m. Register online manateelibrary.libcal.com/event/8486413 Ukulele Instruction for Beginners, Island Branch Library, 5701 Marina Drive, Holmes Beach, 2:45 p.m.

Register online manateelibrary. libcal.com/event/8486473 Friends of the Island Library picnic, Anna Maria Island Historical Society Museum, 402 Pine Ave., Anna Maria, 4-6 p.m.

AMI Chamber Business Card Exchange and Trolley Grant Awards, Seafood Shack, 4110 127th St. W., Cortez, 5-7:30 p.m., $5 members or $10 for prospective members.

Reserve online annamariaislandchamber.org/event/15565

THURSDAY, JAN. 27

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/8486584 Sunshine Stitchers knit and crochet, Island Branch Library, 5701 Marina Drive, Holmes Beach, 2 p.m. Register online at manateelibrary.libcal.com/event/8511517 Friends of the Island Library Lecture and Travel Series, “All Things Bourbon” presented by Dr. Tim Berra, fellowship hall, Roser Church, 512 Pine Ave., Anna Maria, 2 p.m.

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

FRIDAY, JAN. 28

Forty Carrots, Island Branch Library, 5701 Marina Drive, Holmes Beach, 10 a.m. Register online manateelibrary.libcal.com/ event/8486849 Mahjong Club – Experienced Players, Island Branch Library, 5701 Marina Drive, Holmes Beach, 11:30 a.m. Register online manateelibrary.libcal.com/event/8486612

THE SUN

Let’s Get Social, Cheesecake Cutie & Café, 3324 East Bay Drive, Holmes Beach, 5:30-7:30 p.m., $40. Ages 50 and older. Reserve to 941-779-2253

SATURDAY, JAN. 29

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. Face masks required.

SUNDAY, JAN. 30

Farm stand, Holmes Beach City Hall, 5801 Marina Drive, Holmes Beach, 8-10 a.m.

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

TUESDAY, FEB. 1

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/8486810

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Mahjong for Beginners, Island Branch Library, 5701 Marina Drive, Holmes Beach, 11:30 a.m. Register online at manateelibrary.libcal. com/event/8486593 One-on-one tech help, Island Branch Library, 5701 Marina Drive, Holmes Beach, 2-3:30 p.m.

Movies in the Park, “Raya and the Last Dragon,” City Pier Park, 103 N. Bay Blvd., Anna Maria, 6:30 p.m.

WEDNESDAY, FEB. 2

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

Ukulele instruction, beyond beginner, Island Branch Library, 5701 Marina Drive, Holmes Beach, 1 p.m. Reserve online manateelibrary.libcal.com/event/8486414 Ukulele instruction, beginner, Island Branch Library, 5701 Marina Drive, Holmes Beach, 2:45 p.m.

Reserve online manateelibrary. libcal.com/event/8486474 Tortoise talk, Valentine House, Robinson Preserve, 1704 99th St. N.W., Bradenton, 3:30 p.m.

THURSDAY, FEB. 3

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

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JANUARY 26, 2022

Closing time nears for J&J Graphics J&J Graphics launched in Holmes Beach and later relocated to Anna Maria.

BY JOE HENDRICKS SUN CORRESPONDENT | jhendricks@amisun.com

ANNA MARIA – Joan Carter will soon be closing her J&J Graphics business in Anna Maria.

When contacted Monday, Carter said she plans to close her business by Carter the end of February and she’s currently operating on a limited basis.

J&J Graphics is located at 9701 Gulf Dr. in Anna Maria. According to the J&J Graphics website, J&J Graphics Screenprinting Inc. was established in 1985 as a partnership between Carter and her late partner, John Lach, and incorporated several years later. The business operations began in Holmes Beach and relocated to Anna Maria in 2009. Carter worked at a large screen printing company in North Carolina before moving to Anna Maria Island in 1981.

JOAN CARTER | SUBMITTED

J&J Graphics has been doing business in Anna Maria since 2009. J&J Graphics has provided Anna Maria Island with a wide variety of screenprinting services and products.

When asked why she’s closing, Carter said, “Several reasons. What started it was I lost my employee who was doing all my screen printing for me for the past four years.

I lost him and I’m a year away from retirement age anyway. Olga Martinez and I own Harbor Lane Court, which we call our ‘four-unit mini resort’ vacation rental down in Holmes Beach. That’s been keeping us hopping and that’s what I really love to do.

“Manual screen printing takes a lot of physical force and I’ve been hav-

ing some health issues, too, so it’s time. It’s been 36 years now. I’m still going to be busy on the Island with my rentals. I always like going to the Chamber of Commerce meetings and I want to get involved in that again too,” she said.

Carter was asked if the COVID-19 pandemic impacted her business operations and her decision to shut it down.

“Yeah, that slowed things down a lot,” she said.

Carter plans to have a sale at some point in February and she hopes to sell some of her accounts, her screenprinting equipment, her display materials and more.

“Thank you to all my customers.

It’s been great being a part of the community all this time and helping out when we could,” she said.

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JANUARY 26, 2022

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JANUARY 26, 2022

2022 Anna Maria Island Sun Readers’ Choice Business

Business

People & Places

1

Antique/Collectible Store

40

Pool Cleaner (include location)

78

Schoolteacher (include location)

2

Auto Service

41

Pool Contractor

79

Veterinarian (include location)

3

Bait & Tackle Shop

42

Real Estate Assoc. (include location)

80

Veterinary Clinic

4

Bank (include location)

43

Real Estate Co.

81

View

5

Bike Rental

44

Rental Co.

82

Waiter/Waitress (include location)

6

Boating Store

45

Resort

83

Yoga Studio

7

Car Wash

46

Retirement Community

8

Carpet Cleaner

47

Service Org.

9

CBD Store

48

Service Station

10

Clothing Store

49

Shopping Center

11

Convenience Store

50

Souvenir Shop

12

Dry Cleaner (include location)

51

Spa

13

Electrician

52

Window Repair

14

Fine Dining

53

Women’s Apparel

15

Fitness

16

Floor Coverings

People & Places

54

Architect

17

Florist

55

Architectual Design

18

Gift Shop

56

Art Gallery

19

Golf Cart Rental

57

Attorney

20

Grocery Store

58

Band

21

Hair Salon

59

Bar & Grill

22

Hardware Store (include location)

60

Bartender (include location)

23

Heat & Air

61

Beach

24

Home Builder

62

Boat Captain (include location)

25

Hotel/Motel

63

Business Person

26

Jewelry Store

64

Caterer (include location)

27

Liquor Store

65

Charity

28

Manicurist (include location)

66

Chef (include location)

29

Marina

67

Chiropractor

30

Men’s Apparel

68

Dentist

31

Outdoor Sports Store

69

Doctor

32

Pack & Ship

70

Eye Care

33

Painter (include location)

71

Financial Planner

34

Pest Control

72

Fishing Charter

35

Pet Grooming

73

Individual Entertainer

36

Pet Store

74

Interior Design

37

Pharmacist (include location)

75

Massage Therapy

38

Pharmacy

76

Personal Trainer (include location)

39

Plumber

77

School

ENTRY FORM (Must be completed for votes to be accepted) Name: Address: Email (optional): Phone: Day

| Night

I am at least 18 years of age or older (please check box)

Signature:

Food & Entertainment 84

Bagel Shop

85

Bakery

86

Barbecue

87

Breakfast

88

Burger

89

Café

90

Candy Store

91

Asian Restaurant

92

Deli

93

Festival

94

German Restaurant

95

Golf Course

96

Grouper Sandwich

97

Health Food Store

98

Ice Cream Place

99

Key Lime Pie

100 Italian Restaurant 101 Live Theater 102 Margarita 103 Mexican Restaurant 104 Most Romantic Restaurant 105 New Restaurant 106 Night Spot 107 Pier 108 Pizza 109 Place to see a Sunset 110 Restaurant (overall) 111 Seafood Restaurant 112 Specialty Cocktail (include location) 113 Specialty Gourmet 114 Sub/Sandwich 115 Takeout

RULES

Please read carefully. To vote in The Sun’s Readers’ Choice Awards you must use an official entry ballot published in The Sun. Copies and faxes will not be accepted. The ballots will appear in The Sun on Jan. 12, Jan. 19, Jan. 26 Only one ballot per person is allowed. At least 10 CATEGORIES must be filled in for the ballot to count and the entry form must be completed. If you work for The Sun or are related to someone who does, you can’t play. Complete ballots may be dropped off at The Sun’s office, 3909 East Bay Drive Ste. 210, Holmes Beach. Or you can mail it in to The Sun Newspaper, PO Box 1189, Anna Maria, FL 34216. All ballots must be in by January 28, 2022 at 4pm.

Prizes in the drawing may not be transferred. Winners are drawn at random from all entries and you don’t have to buy anything to win. Accepting the prizes means winners agree to the use of their names and photographs in subsequent ads and news stories. You must be 18 years or older to participate. Ballots which show signs of tampering will not be counted. We reserve the right to reject any ballot(s) or disqualify any contestant(s).

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JANUARY 26, 2022

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11

Art takes over AMI Museum The Anna Maria Island Historical Society Museum hosted an “Evening of the Arts” featuring three local artists.

BY JASON SCHAFFER SUN CORRESPONDENT | jschaffer@amisun.com

ANNA MARIA - It was a blend of art and history as the Anna Maria Island Historical Society hosted an “Evening of the Arts” at its museum on Pine Avenue on Jan. 21.

In addition to historic artifacts and treasures on permanent display, the special night featured the works of three talented local artists: Karen Beach, Angie Prindle and Janet Razze.

Razze’s work incorporates local seashells into stained glass, a unique process that drew many in attendance to her work.

“The glass is getting very hard to get and you can’t always find the colors you want,” Razze said. “The biggest problem I’m having is getting my hands on the solder to make these pieces. The solder to make these pieces is made with tin and lead, and the tin mines are closing down.”

Prindle is a retired art teacher from Kansas City who came here to make a second career teaching in Manatee County, she said.

“I was working for The Center and did a collaboration with the historical museum. I had brought the kids from The Center over and painted the benches and got talking to Barbara (Murphy), showing her some of my work. She said they were always looking to showcase local artists and they’d like to showcase my work. I said absolutely, and that’s how this came to be.”

JASON SCHAFFER | SUN

The AMI Historical Society’s “Evening of the Arts” featured artists Janet Razze, top; Angie Prindle, lower left; and Karen Beach, lower right.

Beach is a member of Island Gallery West who specializes in watercolors, but doesn’t like to paint on site, since watercolors tend to dry quickly.

“I just take a photograph, whether it’s reflections in the water that are so appealing, or just anything I find that’s so

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

beautiful,” said Beach, who said she is inspired by local scenes on the Island as well as Cortez.

Liz Hager, of the Historical Society, said the art show was a natural because the museum had been a part of Cultural Connections before that group

dissolved. This was the second art event at the museum, and Hager said there will be more to come.

For more upcoming events at the Anna Maria Island Historical Society Museum, visit www.amihs.org.

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12

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Celebrating Florida Arbor Day From left, Holmes Beach public works employee Tray Thorp, Public Works Administrator Matt McDonough and city commission Chair Carol Soustek celebrate Florida Arbor Day Jan. 21 with the planting of a little gem magnolia tree at Spring Lake Park.

JANUARY 26, 2022

JANUARY 26, 2022

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13

Silver Center hosts barbecue dinner The Annie Silver Community Center in Bradenton Beach will host its first dinner of 2022, on Wednesday, Jan. 26 from 5 to 7 p.m. at the center. Big Dogg BBQ will provide barbecue on-site, and anyone is welcome to eat at the center or take your meal to go.

The cost of the dinner is $10, and you do not need to be a member of Annie Silver to enjoy this, or any upcoming dinners or events. There will also be bingo this, and every Thursday at 6 p.m. Cake, coffee, soda and water will be available.

Ease your worries through meditation Rev. Dirk Rodgers is inviting everyone to come to the Roser Chapel for an eight-week meditation experience designed to help break negative thought patterns, freeing you from fear, doubt and despair.

The classes take place every Wednesday from Jan. 26-March 23 at 9 a.m. in the Roser Chapel, 512 Pine Ave. in Anna Maria. Each week will feature a different theme beginning with Discovering Another Way and ending with Freedom from Despair. For more information, visit www.roserchurch.com.

COVID delays repaving The city of Anna Maria’s street paving project that was scheduled to begin on Monday, Jan. 17, was delayed until Thursday, Jan. 20 due to COVID-19, according to an email City Clerk LeAnne Addy distributed on Tuesday, Jan. 18. In order, the streets to be paved are Pelican Avenue, Gull Drive, South Bay Boulevard, Palmetto Avenue and Gulf Drive from Willow Avenue to the city limits. The paving project was originally expected to be finished by Friday, Jan. 28.

Music on the porch returns ‛S YOUR COMFORT ZONE? WHERE

The Florida Maritime Museum has partnered with the Cortez Cultural Center to celebrate the rich musical heritage of Cortez with the return of Music on the Porch.

This free, family-friendly event is your chance to enjoy a live jam session from the comfort of your lawn chair - or bring an acoustic instrument and join in. Music on the Porch will take place the second and fourth Saturdays of every month from 2-4 p.m. on the Bratton Store porch on the museum’s grounds at 4415 119th St. W. in Cortez.

Free parking is available in the museum lot.

14

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SUNDAY WORSHIP • 8:30 AM or 10:00 AM

COMMUNITY CHURCH

IN PERSON in the Sanctuary Nursery • Children’s Church ONLINE • Watch LIVE or LATER

www.RoserChurch.com Text ROSER to 22828 to receive the weekly eBulletin

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JANUARY 26, 2022

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15

Commissioners consider defining 'emotional support animals' Commissioners are considering updates to city codes adding regulations concerning emotional support animals.

BY KRISTIN SWAIN

SUN STAFF WRITER | kswain@amisun.com

HOLMES BEACH – It all started with one well-behaved goat.

In late 2021, a Holmes Beach couple appeared before city commissioners after a passing boater reported their pet goat to code compliance officers.

The goat is not just a beloved pet, it’s also an emotional support animal that neighbors signed a petition to encourage city leaders to allow to stay in their neighborhood despite livestock not being allowed in the city of Holmes Beach. And while city leaders had no problem giving the couple permission to keep the emotional support goat, it brought up a larger question about emotional support animals in the city, one that commissioners are trying to get a handle on through new regulations.

After the incident with the goat, thenCity Attorney Patricia Petruff suggest-

KRISTIN SWAIN | SUN

Not all emotional support animals are dogs or cats, like Penelope. ed that commissioners consider some type of regulations or acknowledgment of emotional support animals in city codes to prevent potential issues. With Petruff’s retirement as city attorney in December, new City Attorney Erica Augello is tackling the issue. While it was discussed during a Jan. 11 com-

mission work session, commissioners agreed to postpone passing a resolution or ordinance until Augello could do more research into state regulations concerning emotional support animals.

In a draft ordinance presented by Augello that was prepared by Petruff prior to her leaving the city, regulations

in Holmes Beach concerning emotional support animals would require a permit through the city to register and keep an emotional support or service animal. Augello suggested commissioners consider adopting definitions of emotional support and service animals, noting that she’s anticipating that the Americans with Disabilities Act will be updated sometime in the future to more closely align the two types of assistance animals.

Another thing for commissioners to consider is the types of animals that can be used as service, emotional support or other assistance animals.

While some may consider traditional pets, such as dogs or cats, as emotional support animals, Augello noted that there is a wider variety of animals that are considered by their owners as emotional support animals and that whatever regulations commissioners pass concerning the keeping of these animals by city residents, that needs to be taken into consideration.

While the conversation about animals is currently paused, it is expected to be taken up again by commissioners at a future work session.

16

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Officers reach out to the community

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

HOLMES BEACH – Though COVID-19 has put a temporary stop to some community programs sponsored by the Holmes Beach Police Department, that doesn’t mean that officers aren’t still involved in the community.

In a Jan. 3 memo to city commissioners, Chief Bill Tokajer said his officers are not only out on city streets policing, but they’re also out there speaking with residents and visitors daily, interacting with children and providing them with a positive experience with law enforcement officers. He added that officers frequently receive thank you’s from residents and visitors on the extra effort HBPD officers put into their participation in the community.

While the threat of COVID-19 has put a damper on some community events, such as the ice cream and coffee with a cop events where the public can interact with officers in a neutral, relaxed environment,

and the annual National Night Out carnival festivities at city field, other community programs are still continuing. Some of those include the house check program for part-time residents, where officers do a security check of a residential property with the owner then check the residence weekly while the owner is out of town, and public townhall forums, where residents and visitors can voice their questions and concerns to officers. Other programs include resident ridealongs with an officer, tours of the department, bicycle safety events, citizen’s academy, active shooter training and crime prevention programs for the public.

Officers also regularly participate in Island parades, vaccine pop-up sites, Easter sunrise services, events at Anna Maria Elementary School, veterans outreach programs, Snooks Adams Kids Day and other AMI Privateers events, ringing bells for the Salvation Army and many more.

For more information on the HBPD, visit www.holmesbeachfl.org.

ALVAREZ: Fundraiser started for helpful mechanic FROM PAGE 4

do the prostate surgery. Because of the type of work I do, the doctors are telling me it will be anywhere from six to 10 weeks that I can’t do any work,” he said.

When Alvarez received his cancer diagnosis, he was able to obtain a health insurance policy that provides some minimal coverage but also has high deductibles.

Alvarez said he was initially reluctant regarding an appeal to the greater Island community for help.

“We’ve been at CrossPointe Fellowship for about 10 years – ever since Ed Moss took over. We have an unbelievable church family that has been so supportive and loving. I wasn’t sure I wanted to do this, but ASSISTED LIVING

MEMORY CARE

after talking to some of our church leaders they let me know it was time for me to get back a little bit,” Alvarez said.

“I’m the one that’s spent years looking after everybody else and it’s been a very humbling experience having them come forward and offering to help. I’ve never been in this position – not only being sick and having to go through all this, but also having people helping me. It’s always kind of been the other way around,” he said.

Beyond the fundraising efforts, Alvarez was asked if there’s anything else the community can do to assist him and his family.

“A lot of prayers,” he said.

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JANUARY 26, 2022

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THE SUN

FOOD & WINE

JANUARY 26, 2022

The spice is right Brian Mathae

Hungarian goulash (6 servings)

Ingredients

HURRICANE HANKS

2 medium yellow onions 1 1/2 cups carrots, chopped 3 cups potatoes, cut into 1-inch square cubes 2 tsp butter 2 tbsp sweet Hungarian paprika 1/4 cup flour 1 1/2 lbs. stewing beef, cut into 1-inch square cubes 2 cups beef broth 1 cup diced tomatoes 1 tsp salt 1/4 tsp fresh ground black pepper

I

t’s been an exceptionally busy week at Hurricane Hanks. We were blessed with an abundance of guests brought on, in part, by the cold weather. We know people would rather be at the beach or pool during the day, but when it’s this cold we are happy to do our part to ensure everyone’s vacation is still a memorable experience.

Nothing warms cold hands like a hot, flavorful meal. We typically offer our homemade seafood gumbo every weekend and this weekend was no exception. A fresh, 50-gallon batch of seafood gumbo was made Saturday morning and lasted a mere two days!

This past weekend reminds me of growing up in Canada, where we experienced far colder weather than this. Mom always had a way to warm us up after a winter day out snowmobiling or cross-country skiing. Seafood gumbo wasn’t part of my mother’s repertoire but Hungarian goulash was! We didn’t have it often, so when we did it was, without a doubt, a treat. As a slow, simmered stew, less expensive cuts of meat can be used without impacting the quality of the dish. That’s where the art and expertise of cooking ensure a perfect outcome.

In today’s world of instant every-

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thing, this dish is becoming a rarity.

I hope you have the opportunity to try the recipe and see how cooking can change the tenderness of meat, how a slow, simmering stew will fill your house with wonderful scents and create an exciting expectation of a meal to come.

A great seafood gumbo and a great Hungarian goulash have something in common. In large part, it’s the spice used that makes the dish great. When it comes to goulash, it’s all about the paprika.

Paprika is a Hungarian term for a spice made from dried and ground red peppers. The peppers originated in central Mexico, where they have been cultivated for centuries.

In the 16th century, the peppers were brought to Spain and, ulti-

Now with two locations to serve you better Anna Maria Island & Longboat Key Whether you are looking for that perfect wine to compliment your meal or a fun new cocktail recipe, our knowledgeable staff are pleased to help.

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mately, central Europe. While it didn’t become popular until the 19th century in Hungary, today the country is a major source of the spice and offers it in at least eight different grades. The grades all describe the various shades of red, sweetness, heat and pungency combinations.

Paprika is often used as a garnish like on deviled eggs. However, as a cold ingredient, it doesn’t have the same impact as when it is heated. A dish like goulash will really bring it to life. But you have to use the right grade of paprika. It has to be sweet Hungarian paprika. You, too, will love its mild heat, slight sweetness and beautiful bright red color. Buy only a small quantity of it because it will lose its efficacy over time.

Directions

Melt butter in a large pot over mediumhigh heat. Saute onion until just translucent.

Stir in paprika. While the onions are cooking, dry the beef with several paper towels and then coat the beef with flour. Add the beef to the cooked onion and stir until all sides of the beef are browned (about 3 minutes). Add about 1/2 cup of the beef broth to deglaze the pot. Add all remaining ingredients and stir until it comes to a boil.

Cover and reduce heat to a simmer. Cook for an additional two hours and serve with fresh, crusty bread.

Despite using Hungarian paprika, the dish will still be considered spicy and savory. Therefore, a rich red wine with higher acidity, like a Pinot Noir or Cotes du Rhone, would complement the dish wonderfully. We do hope you enjoy.

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JANUARY 26, 2022

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19

Spring Lake waters continue to improve

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Thanks to an aeration system and continuous monitoring by city of Holmes Beach staff, the waters of Spring Lake on Holmes Boulevard have improved greatly over the past four years, going from an acidic lake (top left) to a healthy one (lower left) that can support fish, plants and other life.

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OUTDOORS

JANUARY 26, 2022

Reel Time on the road: The Nature Coast Reel Time RUSTY CHINNIS

H

ave you ever had a fishing trip that was so memorable you felt the need to pinch yourself to make sure it was real? I’ve been fishing a long time and I could count those times on one hand. Now I’ve started on my second hand. Allow me to explain.

I had traveled to the Nature Coast the second week in January this year and settled into a rental house on the Withlacoochee River in Yankeetown.

About two and a half hours from Anna Maria, the Nature Coast is one of my favorite places to fish, photograph and explore. Over the years I’ve investigated the waters from Chassahowitzka to Crystal River, but last year at Captain Nick Angelo’s suggestion, I booked a couple of days with him north of Crystal River in Withlacoochee Bay. That trip enamored me with the wild beauty of the region and the redfish that were so willing to take a fly. The second day of my two-day trip started with an experience that I’ll never forget.

Angelo poled his flats boat through a channel and into a cove that had been inaccessible the day before. The sky was cloudless and the shallow water was clear and only 2 feet deep. As we eased towards the black-mangrove edge, Angelo pointed out a half dozen redfish silhouetted over the light bottom and positioned me for a cast. The first two presentations were ignored, but on my third attempt, a 28” red started

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This Withlacoochee Bay redfish appeared in the perfect place at the perfect time tracking the fly as Angelo coached me on stripping the fly. The instructions worked and the red rushed and inhaled the fly as I strip struck to set the hook.

The fish bolted towards the mangroves but turned as I applied pressure with the rod. Racing back towards the outlet that fed the cove, the red caused the line to “rooster tail” a thin line of water over the mirror-smooth surface. Applying pressure and alternately moving the rod from the left to right I was able to tire the fish after two more short runs.

After a quick picture and video clip, we returned the red to the water. We had been fishing for a total of about 30 minutes when I turned to Angelo and said, "My day's already made!”

This is a wild and unforgiving part of Florida whose shallow waters are studded with limestone outcroppings, shal-

low flats and oyster bars. While I always champion using guides in areas I don’t know, this is one place I would never consider bringing my boat. Even Angelo’s mud motor, a specialized engine, was churning up mud and bumping bottom as he took me to places where it seemed angels (or airboats) would fear to tread!

On the first day, we were on the backside of a strong cold front that plunged temperatures into the low 40s with north winds to 20 mph. After a cold run across the open bay, we were able to fish in the lee of a group of mangrove islands. The wind had blown the water out of the shallow bay and we were unable to reach some of Angelo’s favorite backwater haunts.

Fortunately, we found groups of hungry redfish huddled on the Gulf side flats. In

the low morning light, we had to move extremely slow, sometimes seeing fish almost under the boat. This required nothing more than a quick, short roll cast and made it necessary to shorten my leader and downsize my bite tippet.

Once we had the fish “dialed in” we enjoyed a morning and early afternoon of sight-fishing singles, doubles and small groups of redfish.

In the afternoon as the tide rose, we elected to investigate deep into the creeks and channels that feed the vast expanse of marsh grass hammocks.

At one point we beached the boat and hiked to an ancient grove of grey weathered cedar trees. The feeling while standing at the base of those twisted sentinels was one of being the first to stand in this spot, a rare experience in today’s Florida.

The second day the winds died and although the day dawned cold, it warmed up to be perfect for sight fishing with multiple opportunities for hookups and a chance to explore the back bays and coves that had been inaccessible the day before. To top off the trip, just as we were about to “pull the plug,” Angelo spotted a large redfish close to a shallow oyster bar. On my first cast, I was able to hook up with what was the biggest and hardest-fighting fish of the trip.

The big red made multiple runs into the backing with head-shaking appearances at the surface before finally tiring enough to be landed, photographed and released.

If you would like to experience one of Florida’s “last frontiers,” contact Captain Nick Angelo at 813-230-8473 or visit his website, https://shallowwaterflyfishing.com. It’s a trip you won’t soon forget.

www.amisun.com

JANUARY 26, 2022

THE SUN

21

Winter weather changes fishing targets CAPTAIN DAVE WHITE

Well, winter has hit us with full force this past week. Fishing has changed drastically due to the major temperature drops. We here at Ana Maria Charters are fortunate enough to fish year-round, but it may not always be as exciting as we’d like. As the winter progresses and the winds keep pushing out of the north, we resort to fishing area docks and structures for sheepshead, black drum and redfish. Occasionally, we will target pompano and permit if conditions allow.

We use shrimp for bait in the wintertime, knocker-rigged or with a large split shot. The past few days have been nice enough for us to get offshore to the limestone ledges in the Gulf that run parallel to the Island. Hogfish, mangrove snapper, porgies and grunts have been filling the coolers. We don’t mind the cold as much, but the winds can keep us off of the water. We’ve had a pretty nice December and January, so I guess we’re due!

CAPTAIN RICK GRASSETT

Anglers fishing with me, out of CB’s

Saltwater Outfitters on Siesta Key, had some action catching and releasing reds, snook and trout on DOA lures in Charlotte Harbor recently. Keith McClintock and Hal D’Orazio, from Lake Forest, Ill., fished backcountry areas of Gasparilla Sound and had some action catching and releasing several reds, snook and trout on CAL jigs with shad tails.

Look for reds, snook and larger trout in shallow water. Fishing the deep grass flats of Sarasota Bay is usually a good choice for action with a variety of species including trout, jacks, blues and more.

Snook at night around bridges and dock lights is also a good option depending on conditions. If you have an interest in fly fishing, CB’s Saltwater Outfitters has added another Orvis-Endorsed fly fishing school on Feb 5. Contact them at (941) 349-4400 to sign up.

Our natural resources are under constant pressure from red tides fueled by industrial, agricultural and residential runoff, toxic spills and discharges, freezes, increasing fishing pressure and habitat loss and degradation, please limit your kill, don’t kill your limit!

CAPTAIN DAVE WHITE | SUBMITTED

Longtime client and friend, Joey Rearden, of Atlanta, shows off a tasty sheepshead caught with captain David White of Anna Maria Charters.

CAPTAIN RICK GRASSETT | SUBMITTED

Keith McClintock, from Lake Forest, IL, had some action catching and releasing reds and snook on CAL jigs with shad tails while fishing Gasparilla Sound with Capt. Rick Grassett recently.

22

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W

REAL ESTATE

JANUARY 26, 2022

Let the sunshine shine in

e have officially gone from a hot housing market to the hottest housing market in the country according to Zillow. Where do we go from here?

Zillow has named Tampa Bay the top housing market in the nation going into 2022, according to the real estate firm’s annual analysis. This is an increase from last year from fourth place to first, overtaking Austin, Texas, which fell to number 10.

Zillow economists expect Tampa’s home values to rise 24.6% in 2022, according to their press release earlier this month.

Tampa Bay’s ever-increasing job market and future homeowners relocating from other areas of the country have naturally led to high demand for housing. In addition, fabulous home appreciation rates, which don’t appear to be ending, have contributed to the rise over other major cities.

The top metro areas on Zillow’s list were in the Sun Belt region for the second year in a row. In addition to Tampa Bay being in

Castles in the Sand LOUISE BOLGER the number one spot on the list, two other Florida cities, Jacksonville and Orlando, made the top 10 list of hottest housing markets for the new year. The order of the top 10 breakdown is Tampa, Jacksonville, Raleigh, San Antonio, Charlotte, Nashville, Atlanta, Phoenix, Orlando and Austin. The not-so-hot markets in the country are New York, Milwaukee, San Francisco, Chicago and San Jose.

Time to take a look at our local real estate market, undoubtedly fueled by what Tampa is experiencing. This is what the Realtor Association of Sarasota and Manatee is reporting for December: Single-family homes in Manatee County

had a median sale price of $460,000 compared to December of 2020, up 28.5%.

The average for single-family homes was $614,066, up 23.6% from the previous year.

Both of these numbers are record-breaking again, and to put some perspective on how high our market has appreciated, I checked the September 2015 single-family home average, which was $316,087, just about double appreciation. Inventory continues to be down, with only a 0.6 month’s supply of properties, buyers are paying 100% of list price or more, and single-family homes are going to contract in six days.

Condos had a median sale price in December of $302,965, up 26.8% from December of 2020, and the average sale price was $377,763, up 3.5% from last year. Making a similar comparison to single-family homes, in September of 2015, the median sale price of condos was $157,500 and the average sale price was $188,652, again about double appreciation. Inventory also continues to be down for condos with only a 0.5 month’s

supply of properties, buyers are also paying 100% of asking price or more and condos are also going to contract in six days.

I used September 2015 as a comparison to now because that’s the year the average single-family home in Manatee County sold for more than $300,000, which was very significant at the time.

Zillow’s economist, Alexandra Lee, said in her recent statement: “Buyers should be ready for a strong competition for homes, which means bidding wars and homes flying off the market only days after they are listed.” Basically, across the board, sellers will remain in the driver’s seat, particularly in the hottest markets. However, Zillow indicates even in the cooler markets, there will not be many deals to be made.

Let the sunshine keep shining in on the hottest real estate market in the country, not a northern city in the pack. I think as I write this it’s snowing in New York and Chicago.

You think maybe there’s a connection?

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JANUARY 26, 2022

THE SUN

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Piece-by-piece art a smashing success The Artists’ Guild of Anna Maria Island’s January featured artist likes to break things to create unique works of art.

BY JASON SCHAFFER SUN CORRESPONDENT | jschaffer@amisun.com

HOLMES BEACH - When you drop a piece of china and see it shatter on the floor, you probably gasp, knowing it’s bound for the garbage and your set will never again be complete. But that’s not the case for Donna Slawsky.

Slawsky is the January featured artist of the Artists’ Guild of Anna Maria Island. Many of her works are created by breaking everyday objects, such as teacups or fine china, then reassembling them. She also loves to work with stained glass.

“I don’t use anything that’s brand new,” Slawsky said. “Everything I make is either from remnants of stained glass or vintage broken china that people give to me.”

While it may be fun to imagine Slawsky smashing valuable china on her floor for art’s sake, the process is a bit more technical and controlled. She uses a tile cutter to break the glass or china in a way that fits her vision for whatever the piece is going to become. She also incorporates natural items into her work, such as driftwood or even broken sculpture pieces donated by a friend.

The Artists’ Guild gallery has more than 100 member artists, and while not all artists’ works are always on display, there is always a large collection of area art by talented artists juried by the Guild.

Slawsky’s work will be on display in the front window through the end of January. She is also available for private lessons by calling 941-357-6186 or emailing her at donnaslawsky@yahoo. com.

The Artists’ Guild of Anna Maria Island is at 5414 Marina Drive and is open Tuesday through Saturday, 10 a.m. - 6 p.m.

JASON SCHAFFER | SUN

The Artists’ Guild of Anna Maria Island’s January featured artist, Donna Slawsky, shows off her work in the gallery’s front window.

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!!

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THE SUN

BEACH BEAT BRADENTON BEACH

1/16, 9:09 p.m., noise complaint, 2207 Ave. C. The officer was dispatched to a noise complaint. When he arrived, the officer heard a faint noise coming from the pool area of a rental unit. The officer determined the noise was not at a level that violated the city noise ordinance, and also observed some people leaving the property. The occupant was advised that although there had been a complaint, there was no violation, but if the noise did exceed the legal level further action would be taken.

1/19, 2 p.m., noise complaint, 120 Ninth St. N., The officer responded to a noise complaint at the above address.

When the officer arrived, he made contact with a worker at the site. The

worker said he turned the music down before the officer arrived and agreed to keep the music down while he was working. No further action was taken by police.

HOLMES BEACH

1/14, 9:34 a.m., Baker Act. A subject called 911 to report being depressed.

Upon arrival, police met with a disheveled female who was crying and had a hard time communicating with officers. The subject said she was depressed after a breakup and losing a friend recently. The subject was slurring her words and admitted to drinking alcohol and taking four of her prescription Clonazepam pills.

EMS was called to take her to Blake Medical Center with the officer’s completed Baker Act form.

1/15, 2:30 p.m., hit and run, 3900 East Bay Drive. An officer was dispatched to a hit-and-run crash. After making contact with the victim, he told police

JANUARY 26, 2022

that after shopping at Publix, he noticed damage to his rental vehicle. The victim also said the Publix manager had video evidence and the suspect’s grocery receipt. The case remains open.

1/17, 11:28 a.m., out of county warrant, 201 Peacock Lane. Officers were dispatched in reference to a welfare check. Upon arrival, a family member said the subject had been on a drinking binge. The subject was not at the residence, but the subject’s sister said he had gone to the airport to return home to Ohio. The sister called the subject who turned out to be at the nearby Ace Hardware and was headed back to her. When the subject arrived on the scene it was determined he had an outstanding warrant with the Monroe County Sheriff’s Department and he was handcuffed and arrested. The subject was taken to the Manatee County Jail without incident.

REAL ESTATE ~ 507 “C” PINE AVENUE, ANNA MARIA

Located in the Historic Green Village (Behind Hometown Desserts)

Hear the music play at Roser It’s a new year and time for a new concert series at Roser Memorial Community Church. This year’s concert series begins Sunday, Jan. 30 with the Ditchfield Family Singers, a dynamic group of singers performing the popular music of the 1930s, 40s and 50s.

Doors open at 3 p.m. and the music begins at 4 p.m.

Everyone is welcome and while there is no charge for the concert, a free will offering will be taken. Next in the concert series is Roser’s own Brandon Kouri, an accomplished pianist, on Feb. 20 ,followed by a performance by Barry and the Boomers on March 20.

Roser is located at 512 Pine Ave. in Anna Maria. For more information, visit www.roserchurch.com.

GREAT RATES! GIVE US A CALL! SUBMITTED | ROSER CHURCH

The Ditchfield Family Singers kick off the 2022 Roser Concert Series on Jan. 30.

800.306.9666 • 941.778.2307

www.franmaxonrealestate.com SERVING THE ISLAND SINCE 1970

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JANUARY 26, 2022

THE SUN

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Privateers Pub Krawl raises much-needed funds The Anna Maria Island Privateers held their Pub Krawl fundraiser, stopping by five area bars to enjoy some rum for a good cause.

BY JASON SCHAFFER SUN CORRESPONDENT | jschaffer@amisun.com

Let A Local Be Your Guide • 25 Year Island Resident • Listing Agent Specialist • Ethical & Efficient

941.504.7821 william@annamariaislandrealproperty.com instagram @annamariarealestateagent 941.779.0304

ANNA MARIA ISLAND - The Anna Maria Island Privateers are one of the hardest-working charitable organizations in the area, but they believe there’s nothing wrong with having a good time while raising money for a good cause. Last Saturday’s Pub Krawl was no exception, as the band of pirates invaded five local bars in the good ship Scullywag.

“Today we are doing our Pub Krawl to raise money for operational expenses and organization type funds,” said Kim “Syren” Boyd, current Privateers president.

Money was raised through ticket sales for the event, which allowed participants a rare opportunity to ride aboard the Skullywag, the Privateers' pirate ship on wheels. It began at 9 a.m. at Compass Margaritaville Hotel, with a second stop at

LONGBOAT KEY 647 Marbury Lane 4 Beds 4/1 Baths 2,651 Sq. Ft. Sandi Layfield 941-914-2807 A4503569 $1,599,000

LONGBOAT KEY 3010 Grand Bay Boulevard 445 3 Beds 2/1 Baths 2,143 Sq. Ft. Mel & Jan Goldsmith 941-356-6673 A4520071 $1,495,000

SARASOTA 1917 Rose Street 3 Beds 2 Baths 1,839 Sq. Ft. Maria Beck PA & Jalina Beck 646-531-4118 A4521547 $1,150,000

BRADENTON 1523 1st Avenue W 4 Beds 3 Baths 3,500 Sq. Ft. Fran DeDona & Pam Goodwin 941-812-5023 A4505327 $999,750

ANNA MARIA ISLAND 112 Mangrove Avenue 4 Beds 3/1 Baths 3,577 Sq. Ft. Hannah Hillyard & George Myers 941-744-7358 A4502423 $3,999,000

SARASOTA 707 S Gulfstream Avenue 101 2 Beds 2 Baths 1,247 Sq. Ft. Marybeth Flynn 941-704-1477 A4518888 $850,000

BRADENTON 348 Snapdragon Loop 3 Beds 3 Baths 2,469 Sq. Ft. Stuart Lawrence & Laura Lawrence 941-894-4001 A4519347 $795,000

LONGBOAT KEY 450 Gulf Of Mexico Drive B107 3 Beds 2 Baths 1,586 Sq. Ft. Diana Kryszak 941-993-4078 A4520786 $725,000

JASON SCHAFFER | SUN

Privateers from left, Cookie, Syren, and Privateer-in-Training, Pirate Kevin, enjoy themselves at the latest Pub Krawl.

Loaded Cannon, then Peggy’s Corral, Corks and the last stop, Oasis.

While the event invites participants to enjoy adult beverages, safety is always a top priority.

“When we do our Pub Krawls, we have a crew which includes a driver, chase car driver and safeties who work on the ship to make sure everyone who’s drinking stays safe.

None of these people drink alcohol

SARASOTA 1039 23rd Street 3 Beds 2 Baths 1,513 Sq. Ft. Maureen Doherty & Patrick Doherty 941-993-3159 A4519506 $699,000

for obvious reasons,” Boyd said.

About 25 people bought tickets at $40 each for this event, but only 17 made it out to Saturday’s Krawl. If you’d like more information on the Privateers or any upcoming events, visit www.amiprivateers.memberlodge.org. The Anna Maria Island Privateers are a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization dedicated to helping kids in our community.

BRADENTON 10012 Kingfisher Road E 3 Beds 2/1 Baths 2,473 Sq. Ft. Ken Kavanaugh, Jr & Maureen Horn 941-799-1943 A4516775 $1,295,000

SARASOTA 8821 Misty Creek Drive 4 Beds 4 Baths 3,244 Sq. Ft. Bernadette Caswell 941-320-8265 A4521942 $1,200,000

BRADENTON 5211 Lake Overlook Avenue 4 Beds 4 Baths 2,882 Sq. Ft. Noel Morton & Mark Boehmig 941-348-9129 A4520776 $949,000

SARASOTA 904 Virginia Drive 3 Beds 2 Baths 1,839 Sq. Ft. Maureen Doherty & Patrick Doherty 941-993-3159 A4522050 $899,000

PARRISH 16970 Rosedown Glen 3 Beds 2 Baths 2,231 Sq. Ft. Heather Sniffen 941-720-1526 A4521954 $600,000

BRADENTON 2616 47th Avenue W 3 Beds 2 Baths 1,452 Sq. Ft. Joseph McDonald 941-375-9646 A4519750 $365,000

941.896.9981 | MICHAELSAUNDERS.COM

26

THE SUN

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JANUARY 26, 2022

AME sole county school with no staff COVID cases Anna Maria Elementary is the only school in Manatee County to report no COVID-19 cases among staff this school year.

COVID-19 IN MANATEE COUNTY

Jan. 17 Cases 4,561 % Positivity 26.84% Deaths <10 % Eligible population vaccinated 62.1% New hospital admissions 77

BY JASON SCHAFFER SUN CORRESPONDENT | jschaffer@amisun.com

HOLMES BEACH - As COVID-19 cases rise in Manatee County schools, Anna Maria Elementary is the only county school to have no staff COVID cases since the start of the school year in August.

For more than four weeks, AME and Jain Middle School were the only schools to show no staff cases, but in the past seven days, Jain Middle School has reported four staff cases, making AME the only school in the county free of staff COVID cases this school year.

Anna Maria Elementary School in Holmes Beach has no COVID-19 staff cases this school year.

Jan. 24 Cases 4,499 % Positivity 27.22% Deaths 12 % Eligible population vaccinated 62.9% New hospital admissions 130

Anna Maria Elementary reported no new cases among students for the week ending Jan. 21, however, the school has reported 17 students testing positive for COVID since Aug. 10.

Countywide, 3,572 student cases and 684 staff cases have been reported this school year.

Wearing masks continues to be an option - not a mandate - for students at all Manatee County schools, including AME. The schools encourage social

JASON SCHAFFER | SUN

COVID: New testing sites opened FROM PAGE 1

Under guidance released Jan. 10 from the Biden administration, private insurers are required to begin covering the cost of up to eight FDA-authorized rapid at-home COVID-19 tests per month beginning Jan. 15.

The coverage requirement does not apply to Medicaid managed care or

Medicare Advantage plans.

Reimbursement is capped at $12 per test, though some insured individuals may qualify for direct cost coverage where the in-store test would be free.

Check with your insurance company to determine how to apply for reimbursement.

COVID-19 IN MANATEE COUNTY SCHOOLS

Jan. 17 AME - 0 staff, 0 students Manatee County - 22 staff, 68 students Total since first day of school (AME) - 0 staff, 17 students Total since first day of school (county) - 586 staff, 3,036 students Jan. 24 AME - 0 staff, 0 students Manatee County - 17 staff, 104 students Total since first day of school (AME) - 0 staff, 17 students Total since first day of school (county) - 684 staff, 3,572 students Source: Manatee County Schools, CDC distancing, hand washing and wearing masks, but no child can be forced to do so under Florida law.

JANUARY 26, 2022

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THE SUN

27

TRASH: Rentals not complying FROM PAGE 1

Please make us your choice again this year

the Public Works director. The solid waste ordinance does not specifically address vacation rentals or transient public lodging establishments.

City Attorney Ricinda Perry said the city’s franchise agreement with Waste Pro states that Waste Pro determines where trash containers are to be placed for pickup.

Chappie said he and Public Works Director Tom Woodard have had numerous conversations with Waste Pro and the issues continue.

Chappie said the blame is shared by Waste Pro, vacation rental owners and managers, vacation rental cleaning staffs and vacation rental guests.

Chappie said vacation rental guests, when checking out on Friday or Saturday, often bring the trash containers out to the road as a courtesy and the cleaning crews often do the same.

This results in trash containers sitting alongside the street until they’re picked up on Monday.

Chappie said this doesn’t relieve Waste Pro of its responsibility to return the empty containers to the side of the rental home. He also said it’s up to vacation rental owners and managers to figure out how to comply with the city requirements. Chappie said repeated compliance failures should result in the property owner losing their city-issued TPLE license.

Perry said the city shares some responsibility because the franchise agreement requires property owners to exclusively use Waste Pro.

POTENTIAL SOLUTIONS

Gilbert noted the city of Anna Maria’s franchise agreement with Waste Management requires all non-homesteaded properties to use side yard pickup service, rather than placing that burden only on vacation rentals. That requirement is supported by Anna Maria’s solid waste ordinance.

Anna Maria’s franchise agreement states side yard pick up locations must be approved

by Waste Management and the city must annually provide an updated list of non-homesteaded residential properties to be serviced with containers designated for side yard pick up by a city-approved sticker.

Perry said the city’s current franchise agreement with Waste Pro expires in 2025 and may need to be revised before then. She said continued non-compliance with the side yard pickup requirements could be consid-

ered a breach of that agreement.

Woodard said Waste Pro has been told multiple times that side yard trash containers improperly placed alongside the road must still be returned to the side of the rental home or rental unit. He also said it was Waste Pro’s idea to place the red and white WP stickers on containers designated for side yard pickup.

Gilbert said Waste Pro drivers often can’t see the stickers when the containers are sitting alongside a rental home awaiting pickup.

He suggested Waste Pro provide its drivers with updated logs that identify which properties require side yard pickup, or have stickers placed directly on the vacation rental homes in a more visible location. Commissioner Jake Spooner suggested loading that information into a handheld GPS device to be used by the Waste Pro drivers.

Gilbert said he recently followed a Waste Pro truck down Avenue C and watched vacation rental trash containers being picked up at the end of the driveway and left there rather than being returned to the side of the house.

Woodard said one solution would be to simply require side yard pickup for all residential properties, which currently costs approximately $15 more per month. Chappie opposed side yard pickup for all residential properties or non-homesteaded properties.

Commissioner Jan Vosburgh agreed and said she doesn’t want to subject city residents to those additional costs.

Spooner suggested Waste Pro also be asked to complete its trash collection along Gulf Drive before 8:30 a.m. to help alleviate the traffic congestion that occurs when that trash is collected later in the day.

Cole recommended that Perry, in her capacity as city attorney, contact Waste Pro and reiterate the city’s concerns. Perry said she would, and that she, Gilbert and Woodard would work together with Waste Pro on these issues.

Perry said the main points gathered from the discussion were the need to properly identify what side door or side yard pickup is and what it entails, what identification methods are needed and what can be done about the timing of trash collections along Gulf Drive.

She also acknowledged the commission’s desire that Waste Pro respond more quickly to repair or replace condominium and commercial dumpsters that go unemptied because the roller wheels are broken.

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SPORTS

JANUARY 26, 2022

Solid Rock, Moss Builders remain undefeated

BY MONICA SIMPSON SPECIAL TO THE SUN

ANNA MARIA ISLAND - Solid Rock Construction (SRC) ended the second week of adult co-ed flag football at the top of the ranks along with Moss Builders. In the first game of the night, WTBL kept the action packed against SRC. Dominick Otteni and Jaret Rojas shared the passing credits in the game for WTBL. Rojas threw for two TDs. Otteni had one of his own.

On the other end of the pass was Brandon Kull, with two scoring receptions, and Anthony McCance scoring six points. Kull is also credited with an extra point conversion.

WTBL’s defense made a key play with the Otteni interception, but it just was not enough to earn their first win of the season.

Anthony Mannino worked hard on both sides of the football with an interception and two passing touchdowns.

Helping to keep SRC undefeated, Mannino put 12 points on the scoreboard by running the ball into the endzone.

Peggy Smith, one of the top players in the league, made two catches for TDs and had three receptions in the game.

Solid Rock’s biggest rival yet this season, Moss Builders, closed out the night with their second win to keep them undefeated. In another close one, Ryan Moss threw for four touchdowns.

The hot hands of JB Shuck caught two of the TD passes. Moss Builders teammates Jesse Griffin and Jordan Demers each had a scoring catch.

Demers, Griffin and Shuck each made a point-after conversion, adding three points to the final score. Game stats give Shuck nine catches in the night-ending game for the win.

Moss Builders and SRC, both with a 2-0 record, face off in week three action.

SUN SCOREBOARD TUESDAY, JAN. 18 YOUTH FLAG FOOTBALL – WEEK 2 8- TO 10-YEAR-OLD LEAGUE Beach Bums Bradenton Beach Parasailing Progressive Cabinetry Shady Lady

25 6 7 7

MONICA SIMPSON | SUN

Solid Rock’s Anthony Mannino makes the throw under WTBL pressure at The Center last Thursday night.

MONICA SIMPSON | SUN

Octavious Cole, for Solid Rock, rushes WTBL QB Dominick Otteni, keeping him on the run on The Center gridiron.

Solid Rock Construction Mac Parkman Foundation

19 6

Moss Builders Prosper Bradenton

19 0

11- TO 13-YEAR-OLD LEAGUE Blalock Walters Moss Builders

19 13

HSH Investigative Lawyers Group

13 12

MONICA SIMPSON | SUN

WTBL’s Brandon Kull catches one in the end zone under The Center lights.

Nissan of Bradenton Wash Family Construction Miz & Hiz Biz

THURSDAY, JAN. 20 ADULT CO-ED SOCCER – WEEK 2

24 22 Bye

WTBL (1-0-1) Solid Rock Construction (2-0-0)

19 24

Prosper Bradenton (1-1-0) TBT (1-0-1)

38 19

Sandbar (1-1-0) Cortez Deep Sea Fishing (0-2-0)

32 27

Moss Builders (2-0-0) Shady Lady (1-1-0)

33 27

JANUARY 26, 2022

FUN IN THE SUN

Across 1 Followed 10 Charlie Parker genre 15 Carpenter's accessory 16 Not in the dark 17 "Perhaps" 18 Convene again 19 Wild 20 More than a little 21 Language class subject 22 Changed by time 24 Took in slowly 26 Volatile letters 27 Sports artist Neiman 29 Comics socks 30 Start to fill?

31 Green 33 Diner's grazing spot 35 Checked out 39 Bass product 40 Southwestern state symbol Answers to 0-19-22 Crossword Puzzle.

42 It sells in advertising 43 11-time Gold Glovewinning shortstop Vizquel 44 Bring (out) 46 Instrument with an end pin 50 Noir sleuth 51 Frequent fliers 53 Be overly sweet 54 Did some course work 56 Release 58 Shuttle __ 59 Douze mois 60 Now 62 What a hitchhiker aspires to be 63 Enclosure for dangerous underwater cinematography 64 Clothes closers 65 One who won't give

Down 1 __ shelter 2 Crash or crush 3 Get in the way of 4 "Don't Bring Me Down" gp.

5 "Aw, nuts!"

6 Japanese electronics giant 7 Devise 8 Capa wavers 9 Gender-neutral pronoun 10 Revealed 11 Bremner of "Black Hawk Down" 12 Low-pitched wind 13 Avenue after Reading Railroad 14 Seller of Lab supplies 21 Model 3 autos 23 "Conspiracy Theory" director Richard 25 Trade 28 Aches 30 Commercial bigwig 32 Soaked 34 Co-star of Meryl in "It's Complicated" 35 Toys that run on tracks 36 "Door's open" 37 Amazon predator 38 Projectile with a flight 41 Nile home of a historic stone

45 State of mind 47 New England retailer since 1912 48 Room for leisure activity

THE SUN

49 Bed occupant 51 Shows disapproval, in a way 52 Ready to pack it in 55 Stay fresh

57 Snitch 60 Shade of gray 61 It may be natural: Abbr.

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CLASSIFIED

ANNOUNCEMENTS BEACH YOGA ON Wednesdays, Saturdays & Sundays at 8:30am at the end of Pine Ave by the Sandbar Restaurant by donation. www.thriveyogafit.com THE BEST VOLUNTEER position on the island. The AMI Historical Museum needs docents and bread makers. Call Kathy Primeau at 989-560-6381.

ROSER FOOD BANK needs donations of cash and non-perishable food, PAPER & PERSONAL HYGIENE PRODUCTS. Donations boxes are located at the Church, Moose Club, and Walgreen’s.

COMMERCIAL SALES, RENT & LEASE

ROSER CHURCH IS SEARCHING for a full-time Community Engagement Coordinator to join our ministry staff. Visit the 'Staff & Leadership' page on roserchurch.com for more information.

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 TWIN BEDS COMPLETE SET: white seashell motif.

Quilts, sheets, skirts, duvets, mattresses, rails, white wicker headboards $285. Call 704-472-7284.

GARAGE, MOVING, RUMMAGE & YARD SALES

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

GARAGE SALE Lots of quality furniture, pictures, home goods and more.

One day only. Sunday January 30. No early birds.

9am-3pm. 525 Sea Gull Way, City of Anna Maria

CLEANING SERVICE

HOME IMPROVEMENTS

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

EMPLOYMENT LOCAL LONG STANDING Island Business looking for an experienced full charge bookkeeper/accountant.

Pay Commensurate with experience. Please send your resume to info@ gaunt.com HIRING VACATION RENTAL Reservationists/Quality Control Anna Maria Island 40 hours a week plus benefits, weekends required Customer focused individuals, willing to train please send resume liz@ SaltyMermaidami.com THE WATERFRONT RESTAURANT is hiring all positions Front of House Back of House Full time & PT Very competitive pay Come by in person @ 111 South Bay Blvd Or Call Manger Chef Billy 678-229-8888

Call us today! 941-778-3986

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

941-778-3206 API’S DRYWALL REPAIR 15+ years experience.

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

Call 941-524-8067.

HOME IMPROVEMENT Michigan General Contractor 30+ yrs. experience. Large or small projects. Budget minded knowledgeable tradesman will complete your project start to finish: On Time/On Budget. Call Mike 616-204-8822.

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.

LANDSCAPING & LAWN CARE

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

Neil 941-726-3077

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

Call Rafael 941-778-4823 or Veronik 941-526-7941

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

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.

KERN CONSTRUCTION NEW Homes & Remodel.

Design/Build. Since 1968.

License # CBC 1261150.

Call Mike Kern 941-7781115 JSAN CORPORATION Renovations Construction & Handyman Services 941-243-0995 Lic# CRC1332505 jsancorporation@gmail. com Flooring, Drywall, Painting, Repairs, Kitchen and Bathrooms, Trim & Doors.

Free Estimates. Credit Cards Accepted.

SEARAY SPRINKLER SERVICES. Repairs, Additions, Drip, Timer Head Adjustments. Call Rick today Cell 720-299-1661 Office 941920-0775

LOST & FOUND FOUND PACKAGE WITH CAMERA EQUIPMENT including SD cards, Cannon Lenses. Found near 1101 Gulf Dr N Queen’s Gate Resort Call 941-320-2697 FOUND MAN’S WEDDING RING. In Wal-Mart parking lot on Cortez. Call 518822-7315

JANUARY 26, 2022

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

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.

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.

POOL SERVICES

RENTALS: ANNUAL

FOUR SEASONS POOL SERVICE AND CHEMICAL SERVICES. Certified Pool Operator. 10 + Years Experience.

Residential/commercial. Chemical Service Licensed & Insured. Call Dennis Clark 941-7375657

GREAT LOCATION! Just off the Island with beautiful views of Palma Sola Bay. 3BR/3BA home completely updated with over 3,000 sq ft of living area. Unfurnished with immediate occupancy with application approval. $4,200 per month. Call Paige Rogers Duncan Real Estate 513-382-1992.

COLE'S TROPICAL POOL SERVICE Call Cole Bowers for all your pool maintenance needs!

Affordable and Dependable!! 941-713-1893 POOL MAINTENANCE: Opening February 1st.

STELLAR POOL SERVICE LLC - We offer "Stellar" service at affordable rates.

Call or email us for your free estimate today! 941524-1173 stellarpoolservice1@gmail. com

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 $700/$800/$900 a wk. redekercondosonami. com Tim 941-704-7525

RENTAL WANTED WANTED ROOM TO RENT Mature professional female with no pets or kids needs room. Please call 941-9286033.

SEEKING WINTER 2023 SNOWBIRD Rental. January/February. Close to or on water. 2BR, small pet.

Approximatley $3000/mo.

Call 651-724-2243 email cbcrna!@yahoo.com

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

www.amisun.com

JANUARY 26, 2022

BUSINESS & SERVICE DIRECTORY HOME IMPROVEMENT

HOME IMPROVEMENT

THE SUN

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

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PAINTING

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www.amisun.com

THE SUN

JANUARY 26, 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