Anna Maria Island Sun January 27, 2021

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VOL 21 No. 16

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January 27, 2021

Manatee County to give 4,500 first vaccine doses Manatee County workers are planned to administer 4,500 first-dose COVID-19 vaccinations this week.

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

Stress relief CINDY LANE | SUN

COVID-19 got you stressed out? Ready to chew a hole in your mask? Then take time to take in the nightly light show on the beach on Anna Maria Island and melt away some anxiety.

Legislators again seek state regulation of vacation rentals The proposed legislation would essentially end the three Island cities’ ability to regulate vacation rentals.

BY JOE HENDRICKS

SUN CORRESPONDENT | jhendricks@amisun.com

ANNA MARIA – Florida Sen. Manny Diaz (R-Hialeah) and Florida Rep. Jason Fischer (RJacksonville) are once again trying to take away local governments’ ability to regulate vacation rentals and vacation rental advertising.

The Florida Legislature will

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convene for its annual 60-day legislative session on Tuesday, March 2.

Diaz and Fischer have already filed identical bills that are Diaz similar to the legislation they unsuccessfully pursued in 2020.

Diaz filed Senate Bill 522 on Jan. 11 and Fischer filed House Bill 219 on Jan. 12. If adopted, Fischer

MANATEE COUNTY – Good news came to those waiting in the COVID-19 vaccine standby pool when county leaders announced the receipt of 4,500 additional first doses.

The news came on Calls will Monday, alerting the public that they will receive a come from call from operators at 311, 941-742-4300 who were scheduled to ad texts will randomly select and call people in the standby pool come from to book appointments for 88911. Seniors Wednesday through Friday, are advised Jan. 27-29, at Tom Bennett Park, 400 Cypress Creek to put the Blvd. in Bradenton. numbers in Of the 4,500 vaccine doses received, 600 of those their phone’s will be allocated to the contacts to healthcare and frontline avoid calls worker standby pool. being blocked Those recipients also will be notified by operators. as spam.

Two hundred doses per day are planned to be administered from 8-9 a.m. at Bennett Park.

Patients who received the first dose of the Pfizer vaccine on Jan. 8 should receive an automated call or text to confirm their second dose appointment on Jan. 29 at the Manatee County Public Safety Center. Anyone who received the first dose of SEE VACCINE, PAGE 27

JOE HENDRICKS | SUN

Anna Maria City Commission Chair Carol Carter is concerned about state legislators’ ongoing efforts to strip away cities’ home rule rights.

SEE RENTALS, PAGE 23

VOTE FOR YOUR FAVORITES IN THE

MAKING a

restaurant part of the community. 21

Anna Maria Island, Florida

SUN’S READERS’ CHOICE CONTEST. 19 REEF CLEANUP effort leaves

crab trappers steamed. 17

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Tour boat refueling garners no city support Manatee County does not have a regulation that prevents refueling at the countyowned barge dock in Bradenton Beach.

BY JOE HENDRICKS SUN CORRESPONDENT | jhendricks@amisun.com

BRADENTON BEACH – Bradenton Beach commissioners do not want Paradise Boat Tours to continue refueling at the county-owned barge dock near Longboat Pass.

The mayor and commissioners took this position on Thursday, Jan. 21, when discussing an email that City Attorney Ricinda Perry and others received from Manatee County Environmental Program Manager Alan Lai Hipp two days earlier.

In his email, Lai Hipp questioned whether the city wanted to expand an existing interlocal agreement between the county and the city to allow mobile refueling at the county barge dock.

Paradise Boat Tours uses the nearby Bridge Street Pier to pick up and drop off its passengers. Rather than pay the fuel prices charged at marinas,

JOE HENDRICKS | SUN

Paradise Boat Tours General Manager Sherman Baldwin uses a modified pickup truck to refuel his tour boat.

Baldwin has long used a modified Ford pickup truck to refuel his tour boat at the county-owned barge dock at the south end of the Coquina South boat ramp property.

Last week’s refueling discussion was not noticed in advance on the Jan. 21 meeting agenda, but it was added to

the agenda when the meeting began, with Baldwin not in attendance.

COMMISSION DISCUSSION

Mayor John Chappie said he’s not in favor of expanding the existing interlocal agreement to allow mobile refueling at the county dock.

“I can envision all kinds of boats lining up with trucks full of gas in this public recreational area. I can see this is a safety issue,” Chappie said.

“I think you’re opening up a can of worms,” Commissioner Ralph Cole said. “There’s a lot of people that fish off that seawall. It is a recreational area and you have plenty of places to fuel a boat. I don’t think that’s the place to do it.”

Commissioner Jan Vosburgh said, “I think Sherman is a big asset to Bradenton Beach. I don’t want to hurt his business by not being able to gas up.”

Commissioner Marilyn Maro said she agreed with Chappie.

In response to Vosburgh, Chappie said, “There are plenty of certified fueling places he can go to. We have a marina right here in Bradenton Beach.

There’s a marina in Holmes Beach.

There’s at least one, maybe two or three, in Longboat Key.” Chappie also mentioned the possibility of a fuel spill.

“Who’s going to clean it up if it does spill?” Commissioner Jake Spooner asked.

SEE TOUR BOAT, PAGE 18

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JANUARY 27, 2021

City officials ponder hoverboard and Onewheel prohibitions

IN BRIEF

Mayor Dan Murphy wants law enforcement input before the commission considers prohibiting hoverboards on city streets.

BY JOE HENDRICKS SUN CORRESPONDENT | jhendricks@amisun.com

JOE HENDRICKS | SUN

The dock at the end of Seventh Street South requires replacement.

Seventh Street dock closed The city-owned public dock at the end of Seventh Street South in Bradenton Beach is closed and will remain closed until it can be replaced. Last week, Public Works Director Tom Woodard told city commissioners the dock and dock pilings are unsafe. He said the lowest bid he received to replace the wooden dock with a dock featuring composite planks was $10,000. Woodard said the Public Works Department budget does not have the money needed to replace the dock.

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Deadline passed, net camp remains The deadline to demolish Raymond Guthrie Jr.’s net camp was Sunday, Jan. 24 and the stilt structure continues to stand in Sarasota Bay off the historic fishing village of Cortez.

The Florida Department of Environmental Protection won its case in the 12th Judicial Circuit Court awarding the state ownership of the submerged land under the structure, however, A.P. Bell Fish Co. manager Karen Bell is awaiting a hearing on her pending motion that the court order a stay of the demolition order on behalf of Guthrie.

The net camp was built in the same place the Guthrie family had previous net camps, according to Bell, whose fish house overlooks the structure.

ANNA MARIA – City officials are in the process of adopting an ordinance prohibiting riding bicycles, scooters, skateboards, hoverboards and Onewheel devices on Anna Maria beaches.

The proposed ordinance would impose similar restrictions in the city’s public parks.

City Attorney Becky Vose also is researching prohibiting hoverboards and Onewheels on Anna Maria streets.

When presenting proposed Ordinance 21-882 to city commissioners, Vose said, “It expands what we prohibit on the beach to include hoverboards, skateboards or any other device with one or more wheels.”

According to the proposed ordinance, which requires additional revisions and another first reading, “No person shall operate a bicycle, motorcycle, motor-driven cycle, motor vehicle, hoverboard, skateboard, trailer or any other device with one or more wheels on any beaches or any coastal barrier dunes located within the city limits, except for small hand-pulled wagons, or walkers or wheelchairs for the mobility impaired.”

The proposed ordinance also says, “No person shall operate a motorcycle, motor-driven cycle, motor vehicle, hoverboard, skateboard, trailer or any other device with one or more wheels in any parks located within the city limits, except for bicycles, small hand-pulled wagons, or walkers or wheelchairs for the mobility impaired.”

Hoverboards are two-wheeled, electric-powered devices that resemble a Segway with no handlebars. Resembling a large skateboard, an electric-powered Onewheel contains one large wheel in the center. Riders of both

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City officials are concerned about hoverboards traveling on city streets. types of devices stand upright while riding them.

In 2020, the commission adopted a pier ordinance that prohibits bikes, scooters, skateboards and other devices on the new City Pier.

During the recent meeting, Commission Chair Carol Carter mentioned complaints received from residents.

“We got the complaints from people who have private beach areas, like around Bean Point, about the hoverboards being out there,” she said.

Code Enforcement Manager Debbie Haynes referenced a photo of a man riding a Onewheel on a beach in Anna Maria.

Commissioner Mark Short asked if state law allows hoverboards to be operated on city streets.

He said he recently saw someone riding a hoverboard down the middle of North Shore Drive.

“It’s almost as bad as the golf carts that can’t go 15 mph. We have the opportunity, if those are not covered under state law, to get those off the streets,” Short said.

“I saw a mother with a child on a hoverboard on North Shore. I couldn’t believe it, in the middle of the road,” Carter added.

Vose said she had not found anything in state laws that specifically reference hoverboards, but state law does address “electric personal assistive

mobility devices” in a more generalized manner.

Citing Florida Statute 316.2068, Vose said, “A county or municipality may regulate the operation of electric personal assistive mobility devices on any road, street, sidewalk, or bicycle path under its jurisdiction if the governing body of the county or municipality determines that regulation is necessary in the interest of safety.”

According to the statute, electric personal assistive mobility devices can be operated: • on a road or street where the posted speed limit is 25 miles per hour or less.

• on a marked bicycle path.

• on any street or road where bicycles are permitted.

• at an intersection, to cross a road or street even if the road or street has a posted speed limit of more than 25 miles per hour.

• on a sidewalk, if the person operating the device yields the right-of-way to pedestrians and gives an audible signal before overtaking and passing a pedestrian.

According to state law, a person under the age of 16 may not operate or ride an electric personal assistive mobility device without a properly fitted, securely fashioned bicycle helmet.

SEE ONEWHEEL, PAGE 18

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JANUARY 27, 2021

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Trawler’s oil tank found, fuel tank missing The fuel recovery efforts have ended and the salvage efforts are expected to begin this week.

BY JOE HENDRICKS SUN CORRESPONDENT | jhendricks@amisun.com

ANNA MARIA – The used oil storage tank from the shrimp trawler that sank offshore of Anna Maria on Jan. 8 has been recovered, but there may still be a fuel tank missing, according to Mayor Dan Murphy.

Murphy told city commissioners on Jan. 14 that a 700-gallon storage tank that held used sludge oil was missing. According to the Mayor, that tank was located at some point last week.

It remains unknown, however, how much oil was actually in the tank when the trawler went down or how much might have leaked out.

At mid-day Sunday, Murphy

shared the latest update he received from the U.S. Coast Guard.

“Good morning sir, they were unable to locate the last remaining fuel tank. They concluded fuel recovery operations last night. The tug and barge is going to Tarpon Springs. They will be back on scene this week to conduct salvage operations. Our hopes are that the tank will turn up during the course of the salvage. There’s no longer any signs of pollution on scene, but if at any time they start to get any kind of pollution they will stop salvage and begin recovery of the fuel,” the Coast Guard update said.

The fuel recovery efforts took place about a mile and a half offshore of Bean Point.

Sunday afternoon, Murphy received another update regarding the possible missing fuel tank.

“It is unknown if it would have had any product in it. The

KAREN MCKAY | SUBMITTED

This refrigerator, believed to be from the sunken shrimp trawler, washed ashore in Bradenton Beach on Jan. 9. belief is that if it was still there and had product, we could see an oil sheen. It is believed that this tank either is still in wreck, possibly drifted out

to deeper water or there may have been a possibility that the tank was not on the vessel to begin with. The contractors did conduct an exhaustive

search over a two-week period using divers, side-scan sonar, drones and helicopter overflight,” the Sunday afternoon update said.

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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 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

Drop us a line Got an opinion, a complaint or a compliment? Is there something you need to get off your chest? Send us a letter to the editor and have your say. There are a couple of ways to do it. The easiest and most direct is to email The Sun at news@amisun.com. Remember to put Letter to the Editor in the subject field. Or you can snail-mail a letter to us at The Anna Maria Island Sun,

P.O. Box 1189, Anna Maria, FL 34216. Letters should be kept to 300 words or less and must contain your name and the city in which you reside. Personal attacks and obscene language will not be printed. The Sun reserves the right to edit letters for length or content.

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JANUARY 27, 2021

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.

Jan. 28, 9 a.m. – Special magistrate hearing Jan. 28, 5 p.m. – City Commission workshop Jan. 28, 6 p.m. – City Commission meeting Feb. 10, 1 p.m. – City Commission meeting at the City Pier Feb. 11, 2 p.m. – City Commission meeting

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.

Jan. 27, 9:15 a.m. – City Commission emergency meeting Feb. 3, 9:15 a.m. – City Commission emergency meeting Feb. 3, 9:30 a.m. – Community Redevelopment Agency meeting Feb. 3, 2 p.m. – Scenic WAVES meeting Feb. 4, 6 p.m. – City Commission meeting Feb. 10, 9:15 a.m. – City Commission emergency special meeting

HOLMES BEACH

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

City hall is open to the public by appointment only. Please visit www. holmesbeachfl.org or contact city hall

for more information.

Feb. 3, 10 a.m. – Parks and Beautification Committee meeting Feb. 3, 6 p.m. – Planning Commission meeting Feb. 9, 6 p.m. – City Commission meeting

ISLAND-WIDE

Feb. 8, 2 p.m. – Island Transportation Planning Organization meeting, Holmes Beach City Hall and via Zoom

MARKYOUR CALENDAR The Island Branch Library is open at 40% capacity. Please wear a face mask/ covering. The Tingley Memorial Library is open.

The Center of Anna Maria Island is open with social distancing and face masks required.

The Holmes Beach dog park (Scentral Park), skate park, basketball courts, pickleball courts and tennis courts are open.

Local preserves are open, including Grassy Point Preserve, Neal Preserve, Perico Preserve and Robinson Preserve.

Local beaches are open.

north entrance kayak launch, 1704 99th St. W., Bradenton, 5 p.m. Participants must have their own kayak or canoe and safety gear. Register at www. eventbrite.com/e/133356028471.

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

Reserve to gina@amichamber.org or 941-778-1541.

SATURDAY JAN. 30

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. 31

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

Beach market, Coquina Beach, 2650 Gulf Drive S., Bradenton 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 or by cash at the door. Bring your own yoga mat. Register at https://parks. mymanatee.org/wbwsc/webtrac.wsc/ search.html?primarycode=110006 or call 941-742-5923 ext. 6042 for more information.

THURSDAY

TUESDAY

Farmer’s Market, Holmes Beach city field, 5801 Marina Drive, Holmes Beach, 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.

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

Full moon paddle, Robinson Preserve

Farmer’s Market, City Pier Park, 101 N. Bay Blvd., Anna Maria, 8:30 a.m. to 2 p.m.

Movie in the Park, “A Beautiful Day in the Neighborhood”, City Pier Park, 101 N. Bay Blvd., Anna Maria, 6:30 p.m.

WEDNESDAY JAN. 27

JAN. 28

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AMY HENDRICKS | SUBMITTED

A pedestrian was struck last week while crossing Gulf Drive.

Pedestrian survives being struck in Anna Maria

BY JOE HENDRICKS SUN CORRESPONDENT | jhendricks@amisun.com

ANNA MARIA – A female pedestrian was struck and injured by a vehicle Thursday afternoon, Jan. 21, near the intersection of Gulf Drive and Spring Avenue. As of Monday afternoon, the accident report had not yet been released by the Manatee County Sheriff’s Office and the name of the victim and the driver remained unknown.

According to Anna Maria Mayor Dan Murphy, the pedestrian was struck by a driver headed west on Spring Avenue and who turned left onto Gulf Drive before striking the pedestrian in the crosswalk.

Murphy said the pedestrian was transported by ambulance to Blake Medical Center in Bradenton, accompanied by her husband. He said the driver is employed at a local restaurant and was cited for the accident.

Sgt. Brett Getman, from the Sheriff’s Office Anna Maria Unit, said the driver was cited for violation of pedestrian right of way.

When contacted Monday, Murphy said, “I was told by our sheriff’s department that the injuries were non-life threatening. She had asphalt burns and abrasions.”

Part-time Bradenton Beach resident Patsy Castellano noted on Facebook that the victim is her neighbor.

“She didn’t break anything, just badly bruised,” Castellano commented.

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JANUARY 27, 2021

Center meets fundraising goal The Center started the new year on a good financial note but still needs help from the community to remain afloat over the coming months.

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

ANNA MARIA – The Center of Anna Maria Island was able to end the year on a high note thanks to the generosity of the community.

Director of Development Jim McDaniel announced the results of the Go Green 2 Annual Campaign. The fundraising campaign, which ran from Nov. 17 to Dec. 31, generated $164,000 through $80,000 in challenge financial gifts and $84,000 raised through community donations. The total surpassed the initial goal of $50,000 with a $50,000 match made possible by donations from Sebastion Scripps, the Melancon family, Carol and Bob Carter, Elizabeth Moore and The Center’s board of directors.

FILE PHOTO

Chuck and Joey Lester are recognized by Aris Thompson and David Zaccagnino during the 2018 Lester Family Fun Day at The Center of Anna Maria Island.

McDaniel said the initial goal was reached on Dec. 16 thanks to a generous donation from the Lester family. On that same day, he said,

The Center received a $30,000 donation from the Eisenbarth Foundation, creating the second half of a matching challenge. That challenge

ICES ANY HAPPY HOUR PR

was met by Dec. 31 thanks to generous community donors, including Karla and Clint Hurdle, whose donation helped the nonprofit’s fundraising challenge cross the finish line.

“We are extremely humbled by the community’s response to The Center’s campaign,” McDaniel said, thanking donors in an email to The Sun. “Your gifts will enable us to continue to provide the very best possible of services to you and our adult sports leagues, our fitness programs, our tennis and pickleball players and our children of The Center’s after school and vacation camp program, Beyond the Classroom.”

He added that while the amount raised was wonderful, The Center will still need additional funding over the next five months to take the place of lost program funds and events due to the ongoing coronavirus pandemic.

For more information on The Center and its programs, visit www. centerami.org.

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COMMUNITY CHURCH

Essential Truths WHO IS JESUS?

A moral teacher? A religious leader? A savior?

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SUNDAY WORSHIP 8:30 AM or 10:00 AM

In the SANCTUARY and ONLINE Go to www.RoserChurch.com Click WORSHIP-SIGNUP , WATCH LIVE or WATCH LATER Text ROSER to 22828 to receive the weekly eBulletin.

The CHAPEL is open during office hours for prayer & meditation.

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COME HEAR THE STORY!

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JANUARY 27, 2021

Public input sought on future pier building use

BY JOE HENDRICKS SUN CORRESPONDENT | jhendricks@amisun.com

ANNA MARIA – The public will soon be given a chance to provide input on the future use of the currently vacant City Pier building.

The city of Anna Maria will host a public meeting on the City Pier on Wednesday, Feb. 10 at 1:30 p.m.

Originally scheduled for Feb. 2 but then pushed back a week, the Feb. 10 meeting will take place inside the larger cityowned pier building that was originally intended to be occupied by a restaurant operator.

With Brian Seymour, Nick Graham and Vic Mattay now operating the City Pier Grill & Bait Shop in the smaller of the two city-owned pier buildings, the future use of the larger pier building remains undetermined.

During the Thursday, Jan. 14 city commission meeting, Mayor Dan Murphy proposed a special meeting at which he would provide the public and the commission with some possible options.

“Between now and the end of the month, I will have some recommendations for the city commission to consider,” he said.

JOE HENDRICKS | SUN

On Feb. 10, city officials will receive public input regarding the future use of the pier building to the right in this photo.

Commissioner Joe Muscatello suggested the meeting take place inside the pier building so the public can see the available space for themselves.

Murphy said the possible options include a full-service, sit-down restaurant, a special event facility, or a special event facility that also includes a retail sales

operation. He also said representatives of the Sarasota-based Mote Marine Laboratory and Aquarium have expressed interest in using the vacant space for a learning lab.

“Mote Marine has some very specific ideas they’d like to share with our commission, so they need to be in

attendance at that meeting,” Murphy said.

Murphy said possible uses could include a combination of some of these ideas and that no one has approached him recently with any specific plans for a restaurant, retail space, or special event venue.

He added he will provide commissioners with some basic architectural drawings that illustrate how the interior space could be used for the various possibilities.

“I think we need to decide what we’re going to do with it,” Murphy said of the vacant space made more valuable by its beautiful views.

Murphy said he doesn’t expect the commission to decide at the Feb. 10 meeting.

“This is just the first meeting to discuss the future of that space. I don’t think you can do it all in one meeting,” he said, while noting he expects to hear a variety of proposals and ideas.

“We can put together a plan, but I can’t pursue five plans at once. I think we need to agree on our first choice, and maybe here’s our second and here’s our third.

We need to zero in on one plan and drive that into fruition as quickly as possible.”

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JANUARY 27, 2021

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Privateers celebrate a life The Anna Maria Island Privateers held a sunset celebration of life on Saturday for Robert “Pirate Bob” Kenneth Boyd on the Anna Maria City Pier.

Boyd was a member of the Privateers for more than 43 years. As an Island-based hairstylist, he owned and operated Bob’s Hair & Co. on Gulf Drive in Holmes Beach for many years. Alwana, his wife of 51 years, and other family members and friends attended the celebration of life that included accolades and testimonials and the firing of black powder pistols as “Taps” was played. At sunset, each Privateer threw a personalized and signed stone into the bay while wishing “calm seas and fair winds” for Boyd’s journey to "Davy Jones’ locker."

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Privateers and Drift In hosting fundraiser

AMI PRIVATEERS | SUBMITTED

Above, Cindy “Bubbles” Swager stood by Alwana Boyd as she bid farewell to her husband Bobby. Below, John "Capt.

Barbarossa" Swager and fellow Krewe members bid their shipmate farewell.

BRADENTON BEACH – The Anna Maria Island Privateers and the Drift In are co-hosting the inaugural Drift-In Scholarship Fundraiser Party on Saturday, Jan. 30 from 5:30 p.m. to 10 p.m.

The pirate-themed fundraising celebration will take place at the Drift In, at 120 Bridge Street in Bradenton Beach. The money raised will assist the Privateers in their ongoing efforts to provide local students with college scholarships as part of their “Privateers for Kids & Community” mission statement.

Pirates, wenches and the 60-foot pirate ship “Skullywag” will be arriving at the Drift In at 5:30 p.m. A baked ham potluck dinner and desserts will be offered beginning at 6 p.m. for those who bring a dish to share or make a $5 donation.

The fundraising activities will include the infamous “Lotto-Board raffle” drawing at 9 p.m.

The raffle winner is guaranteed $100 in cash and $300 worth of scratch-off lottery tickets. A “Pirate in a Basket Party” liquor basket will be raffled and there will also be a 50/50 raffle.

This event will offer a cash bar and the live music will begin at 9 p.m.

Bring your friends and neighbors and help celebrate the Privateers 50th anniversary while raising money for the Privateers’ college scholarship fund. For more information contact Privateer Adam Cross at 941-524-6862 or e-mail adam.cross55@gmail.com. The Anna Maria Island Privateers are also on Facebook.

The AMI Privateers invite the community to join them for a fundraising party on Saturday, Jan. 30.

JOE HENDRICKS | SUN

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

5344 Gulf Drive, Holmes Beach 941.779.2337 Shop & earn discounts at Hurricane Hanks!

Delivery service now available!

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SUBMITTED

Six Anna Maria Island police officers worked the presidential inauguration ceremony.

Island officers provide inauguration security Anna Maria Island police officers Adam DeSantis, Christine LaBranche, Lee Diehl, Michael Walker, Devon Straight and Roy Joslin provided police protection in Washington D.C. during the presidential inauguration on Wednesday, Jan. 20. DeSantis, LaBranche, Diehl and Walker are members of the Holmes Beach Police Department. Straight and Joslin are members of the Bradenton Beach

Police Department. When asked about the experience, Straight said, “It was a unique experience compared to past inaugurations, due to both COVID-19 and political tensions. For those of us who haven’t been to D.C. before, we missed out on a lot of experiences because of the heightened security and the closures. Inauguration day was long and cold, but there were zero issues as far as we know.”

JANUARY 17, 2018

JANUARY 17, 2018

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Cheesecake Cutie & Café A ceremonial ribbon cutting ceremony took place at The Cheesecake Cutie & Café on Tuesday, Jan 19. Opened in late 2020, The Cheesecake Cutie & Café offers signature and specialty cheesecakes, smallersized cheesecake “cuties,” Ketofriendly cheesecakes and a café menu featuring a wide variety of deli sandwiches, wraps, salads and more. The Cheesecake Cutie & Café is located at 3324 E. Bay St. in Holmes Beach. For more information call 941-779-2253 or visit www.cheesecakecutie.com.

SHONA OTTO | SUN

The recent opening of The Cheesecake Cutie & Café was celebrated with a postopening ribbon cutting ceremony.

Center works toward volunteer scientist program ANNA MARIA ISLAND – The Center of Anna Maria Island is working towards launching a new venture, a volunteer scientist program where locals can help study water quality issues around the Island.

Director of Development Jim McDaniel spoke with The Sun to discuss the progress being made on bringing the initiative to life.

He said while it’s still very much a work in progress, he expects

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The Center will serve as the organizer for the venture, working in conjunction with Mote Marine Laboratories and Eckerd College Galbraith Laboratory.

The point of the effort would be to use the mini reefs installed during The Center’s Go Green campaigns to study the reefs effect on water quality and sea life. Volunteer scientists will be trained and complete research and data collection to help support

collaborative efforts between organizations.

While the details are still being worked out, McDaniel said he’s very excited about being able to help bring the project to life.

“It’s really all the things I’d hoped when I started this are happening,” he said, adding that the project is still evolving and will be more definite before it’s presented to the public and citizen volunteers are recruited.

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JANUARY 27, 2021

Realtors navigate high demand and shrinking inventory in 2020 Properties on and around Anna Maria Island are selling at top price soon after hitting the market.

BY JOE HENDRICKS SUN CORRESPONDENT | jhendricks@amisun.com

ANNA MARIA ISLAND – Liz Blandford, Christine Kourik and Cindy Quinn were among the Realtors who enjoyed the booming real estate market on and around Anna Maria Island in 2020.

Blandford is the owner and broker of Salty Mermaid Real Estate in Holmes Beach. Kourik and Quinn are Realtors with the RE/MAX Alliance Group in Holmes Beach.

According to the 2020 agent market share report, Blandford sold 24 properties and listed 17 properties in Manatee County for a combined total value of $37.7 million. Of those, 15 sales and 13 listings were on Anna Maria Island for a combined Island total of $29.2 million.

Countywide, Kourik sold 24 properties and listed 23 for a total combined volume of $19.5 million, according to the market share report.

On the Island, she sold 11 properties and listed ten properties for a combined Island total of $11.9 million.

Countywide, Quinn sold 23 properties and listed 22 properties for a total combined value of $17.2 million. On the Island, she sold five properties and listed six for a combined Island value of $5.6 million.

BLANDFORD’S INSIGHT

Blandford’s been selling real estate on Anna Maria Island since 2003, and in late 2018 she founded Salty Mermaid Real Estate.

“Last year was very Blandford busy on the Island. My largest sale was on Anna Maria Island for $6.6 million.

It was very busy off-Island as well,” Blandford said, noting she sold a house in Lakewood Ranch for $2.7 million.

“There’s low inventory and I think a lot of that has to do with COVID and the mass migration out of the northern states because our state is open. There’s a lot of people moving here from New York, New Jersey and California,” Blandford said.

She’s also seeing clients from midwestern states, as well as Colorado and Washington D.C. Blandford said her clients were

primarily buying second homes rather than permanent residences.

“A lot of my existing clients who already owned here bought larger homes or upgraded their purchase.

Because of COVID, it’s easier for a lot of people who would usually travel overseas or to the Bahamas to come to Florida and spend time with their families,” she said.

Blandford is a little concerned about the current lack of housing inventory.

“We just don’t have any and there’s a lot of people waiting and there’s a pent-up demand. If it’s under $600,000, and it’s a pretty house, it’s going to get a full price offer,” she said.

Blandford said the off-Island market remains strong as well.

“We meet clients that can’t necessarily afford the Island and that’s not what they had in mind. The Island is beautiful, but there are clients that would prefer to be in town, or they want land and would prefer to be out east closer to I-75,” she said.

KOURIK’S INSIGHT

Kourik has been selling real estate on and around Anna Maria Island for the past seven years.

“We have a lot of Midwest buyers in their Kourik 40s and 50s buying second homes. They’re using them for themselves and their own enjoyment. There’s multiple offers on properties as soon as they come on the market. The owners are holding out for full price, or higher.

They’re not budging,” Kourik said.

Kourik said virtual tours continue to be an important tool for Realtors.

“Inventory is low and we have a lot of people that go home empty-handed.

We’re having to Facetime them when something does come up. They don’t actually get to see the properties when they’re making offers on them. I’ve always done 360 virtual tours that walk you from room to room. I also do a one-to-two-minute drone video of each property that I list so people can get a better feel for the neighborhood; and get a feel for how close it is to the beach or the bay,” Kourik said.

Kourik was asked if the lack of inventory makes a Realtor’s job more difficult.

“It does if we can’t find anything for the buyers. I tell my buyers that it may not be the perfect home, but when you come back next year you’ll wish you would have purchased this year,” she said.

As for 2021, Kourik said, “It started

with a bang. I’ve already had about $6 million under contract.”

QUINN’S INSIGHT

Quinn was born and raised in the area and has been in the real estate business for the past 23 years.

Quinn said most of her recent clients have Quinn been in their 50s and 60s: “They’re working for corporation and don’t have to work in an office anymore so they’re going to come down and work remotely in their second home.

“I sold more homes off the Island this year than on the Island. We had a lot or people from New York and Chicago buying second homes. People just want to be here enjoying Florida.

Northwest Bradenton and west Bradenton are close to the Island and for some people it makes sense to pay $500,000 for a nice home there instead of a million dollars on the Island,” Quinn said.

“There was a house in Palma Sola that was listed for $499,000. There were three full price offers, a cash offer and two offers over the asking price. That’s what’s happening in town and there’s no inventory,” she said.

Quinn was asked if there’s much housing inventory for the workingclass people who work on the Island but live on the mainland.

“Not really,” she said.

Quinn wonders if the pandemic is making some owners more reluctant to put their homes on the market.

“I think there’s a lot of people that are afraid to have people look at their house right now. As the vaccines come forward, I wonder if we’ll have more inventory? If you’re thinking about selling your house and you’re worried about COVID put your house on the market and let your Realtor take the precautions.” she said.

“I sold six houses this to people who never set foot on the property until they closed. You do a live Facetime and show them everything that’s wrong with the house and everything that’s right with the house. You don’t want to mislead them. You have to show the good, the bad and the ugly. If you’re good at what you do, the virtual showings are just as good as in-person showings,” she said.

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JANUARY 27, 2021

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Special magistrate levies fines against repeat offenders Holmes Beach special magistrate Michael Connolly assigned fines in two cases of repeat vacation rental ordinance violations.

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

HOLMES BEACH – Two property owners did not have a good day during a recent code compliance special magistrate hearing as fines of $500 per day were levied.

First up was Mohammad Waliagha, owner of 515 75th St. in Holmes Beach. Code Compliance Officer James Thomas presented the case, alleging that Waliagha violated city codes by renting the property, located in the R-1 district which allows for rentals of 30 days or more, for too short a time. He also alleged that Waliagha was in repeat violation by advertising the

property for rent for less than 30 days. Officers showed attorney Michael Connolly, serving as Holmes Beach special magistrate, print outs of the advertising for the property and the different periods when the advertising had been active on different websites.

Waliagha argued he had been out of the country and had not advertised the property or authorized anyone else to advertise the property for rent. He also argued there was no date listing the time of the offense on the citation he received from code compliance officers so he shouldn’t be required to defend himself against it.

Connolly found that Waliagha violated the city’s rental advertising requirements for the 15 days the advertisement was posted online, ordering a $500 per day fine, a total of $7,500, plus administration costs of $127.24. He said he didn’t see proof Waliagha was renting the

home but he issued a finding of fact that the property was available for rent due to the advertising and ordered Waliagha to obtain a vacation rental certificate for the property and correct his ad before advertising the property for rent again.

The next case Connolly heard during the Jan. 21 hearing also concerned renting a property in the R-1 district for less than 30 days.

This property, at 102 48th St., is owned by Jennifer Rose and Shawn Kaleta. Appearing on behalf of the owners during the hearing was attorney Louis Najmy.

Thomas presented photos and emails from tenants of the property, along with his sworn statement that he’d spoken with renters at the beachfront property through Jan. 4, who said they were staying at the property for less than 30 days, some as little as four days.

Najmy first argued that all of the

people staying at the property were friends of the owner except one who wasn’t willing to rebook the vacation for another property. He later recanted that statement after being presented with a copy of a rental bill received by the city from a tenant previously identified as a friend.

Thomas said while this is a repeat violation he visited the property Jan. 19 and was told by the renters they were staying for at least 30 days. As a result, he now believes it is in compliance.

Connolly ordered the owners to pay $500 per day from Nov. 18, when a finding of fact was issued during a previous special magistrate hearing, through Jan. 19, for a total fine of $30,500 along with $127.24 in administrative fees.

The next Holmes Beach special magistrate hearing is scheduled for 10 a.m. on Feb. 17.

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THE SUN

OUTDOORS

JANUARY 27, 2021

A catalyst for change Reel Time RUSTY CHINNIS

W

hen I asked Jon Thaxton, Vice President of Community Investment at the Gulf Coast Community Foundation (GCCF), about the “backstory” of the foundation’s newly-released online Water Quality Playbook, he was characteristically self-effacing. While he correctly claimed that such a document wasn’t an original idea, he and the GCCF should be lauded for the creation of this very important and timely effort.

Thaxton, a fourth-generation Floridian from Osprey, has been a champion of business and the local environment for more than four decades. A founding member of the Venice High School Ecology Club in

1974, he has been a lifelong advocate for sustainability. Thaxton served three terms as a Sarasota County commissioner (he was term-limited out) and joined the Foundation in 2012.

He has earned accolades from diverse environmental groups, including the Nature Conservancy and 1,000 Friends of Florida, and was featured in National Geographic Magazine for his work with endangered species.

During his career, Thaxton gained a reputation as a politician, businessman and environmentalist who crossed “traditional boundaries.” Listening to both business and environmental interests makes Thaxton’s experiences unique and, I think, critical to the area’s environment and economic viability. While I believe his experiences as a Realtor, politician and public servant have been critical, it was his love of the water and fishing, like many of us, that were foundational to the realization of the critical need to protect our local waters.

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Living shorelines are one of the solutions proposed by the playbook.

When developing the concept, Thaxton (chair of the initiative), true to his reputation, reached out to diverse segments of the local community including Dave and Jennifer Shafer

of Shafer Consulting, Sandy Gilbert of Solutions To Avoid Red Tide, Steve Suau, principal of Progressive Water SEE REEL TIME, PAGE 17

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JANUARY 27, 2021

REEL TIME: A catalyst for change

THE SUN

17

Weather finally cooperates CAPTAIN DAVE WHITE

FROM PAGE 16

Resources, agriculturalist Alan Jones, business groups like the Argus Foundation, and various government officials. These include Sarasota’s Sustainability Manager, Stevie Monte Freeman and John Ryan, Sarasota County’s environmental manager.

Thaxton credits Dave Shafer with the concept of the online adaptive format and Suau and the Shafers with researching and writing the playbook.

Composed of 10 chapters and 43 recommended activities, the playbook focuses on the ways Sarasota County can address water quality in local bays and estuaries. While written for Sarasota, the playbook was intentionally designed to be customizable and adaptive for use by other municipalities.

According to Thaxton, “This Community Playbook for Healthy Waterways focuses, prioritizes, and coordinates critical activities we must undertake to realize our community’s vision for clean and healthy waters.”

The importance of addressing the degradation of our waterways cannot be overstated. As I’ve written in this column many times, our waters are at a critical crossroads and time is of the essence.

Efforts like this give stakeholders a vital tool and framework for change, but your voice is critical to its success. I encourage everyone to engage local politicians and decision-makers, demanding common-sense actions to assure our coastal waters are clean, clear, healthy and sustainable.

Consider joining, donating to and working with local environmental and advocacy nonprofits like Suncoast Waterkeeper and Sarasota Bay Watch.

This is an achievable goal but requires the political will of our elected officials. We either address this now or push it down the road as a much larger burden to our children. Our fishing and economic future and that of future generations depends on it.

For more information, contact Greg Luberecki at gluberecki@gulfcoastcf.org or 301-466-9594.

The weather this week has been phenomenal! We had to get through some cold and windy ones to get here though. We here at Anna Maria Charters have been both inshore and offshore this week.

Offshore, the mangrove snapper have been exceptionally fired up.

They are big, and happy to take a bait. The amberjack are pretty easy right now as well. These are out of season. But these fish will always put a client’s ego in check!

Red grouper fishing is also good.

We were happy to get out there and spend time out of cell range.

Inshore, pompano, sheepshead, seatrout, some snook, and an exceptionally strong redfish bite has kept us busy. Sheepshead

CAPTAIN DAVE WHITE | SUBMITTED

Holmes Beach resident J.B. Shuck, and his father-in-law, Bob Cimino, visiting from Omaha, hoist a pair of scrappy redfish. Caught with Captain David White, of Anna Maria Charters. will fill the cooler and redfish will give you a good tug. Hopefully, the water temperatures will keep

climbing and the great fishing continues.

Reef cleanup leaves stone crab trappers steamed

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

HOLMES BEACH - Well-intentioned volunteers who held a cleanup of the Spanish Rocks reef off Anna Maria Island on Monday have Cortez stone crab trappers up in arms after crab traps were removed from the water with the trash.

"It's against the law to touch a crab trap that's not yours," Cortez crabber Mark Coarsey said, after seeing wooden traps piled on the beach in a television news report Monday night.

"Unbeknownst to local commercial fishermen, divers removed some traps," he said, adding that many crabbers wait until the end of the season in May to remove

their gear from the Gulf of Mexico.

Traps can cost the fishermen more than $40 to make with materials including plastic, lead weights, concrete, rope and buoys, plus their time and effort.

The removed traps were "retired," said Reid Myers, a spokesman for Pepsi Stronger Together, one of the sponsors of the event along with Force Blue, NFL Green and the Tampa Bay Super Bowl LV Host Committee. The Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission confirmed the traps were ok to remove, Myers said.

Storms and stone crabs can remove the serial numbers of active traps, Coarsey said.

The crabbers will be able to pick up their traps this week, Myers said.

The Dive55 event, named for the

upcoming 55th NFL Super Bowl, was held in conjunction with NFL Green Week. Force Blue Special Operations veterans led 55 volunteer divers from local organizations in the operation to remove marine debris and abandoned fishing gear from Spanish Rocks reef.

One diver said in a TV interview that "lobster" traps damage the "coral" reef. The traps are for stone crabs, Coarsey said, and the reef is limestone rock with some soft corals.

The cleanup crew included Chris Lucas, of the country music duo Locash, Martín Gramática, former Tampa Bay Bucs placekicker, and Jim Ritterhoff, executive director of Force Blue.

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JANUARY 27, 2021

TOUR BOAT: Refueling garners no city support FROM PAGE 3

“It seems the response for Alan would be no, we don’t want to allow that type of activity,” Chappie said.

Perry said she would relay the commission consensus to Lai Hipp and Parks and Natural Resources Department Director Charlie Hunsicker.

BALDWIN’S RESPONSE

When contacted Thursday afternoon, Baldwin said he was not upset with the city commission’s decision, but he would have liked to have been included in the discussion.

The following day he emailed Chappie and the city commissioners.

“On Jan. 12, I attended the Manatee County Commission meeting and was informed by Commissioner Whitmore

that Bradenton Beach has jurisdiction over the fueling issue. Not seeing it on the agenda for yesterday’s meeting, I opted not to attend,” Baldwin’s email said.

“I respectfully request that an agenda item be added to the Feb. 4 commission agenda and I be allowed a brief period of time to provide important details that I believe the commission needs to consider. I also request that any answer to Alan Lai Hipp’s email be delayed until after the commission has taken up this issue at the Feb. 4 meeting,” Baldwin’s email said.

PAST DISCUSSIONS

On Dec. 14, Baldwin addressed his suspended refueling efforts in an email sent to County Administrator Cheri Coryea and others.

“Six weeks ago, sheriff’s deputies informed us that they have been instructed to prevent us from refueling there anymore – and that it was Alan Lai Hipp who they received their instructions from. In fact, if we refueled there again, we would be subject to arrest,” Baldwin’s email said.

“Marina fuel is over $2 more per gallon than the street price,” Baldwin’s email noted.

It also noted that his mobile fueling operations reduce his fuel costs by approximately $650 per week.

On Dec. 15, Baldwin shared his plight with county commissioners. The county commission agreed they did not want to see Baldwin arrested, but they also did not support the county dock being used for refueling.

County Attorney Mickey Palmer

said he was not aware of any county code or regulation that currently prohibits refueling at the county dock.

He recommended the county take no enforcement action until the matter was further researched.

The county commission supported Commissioner Kevin Van Ostenbridge’s request for the county attorney’s office to prepare a document that formally prohibits refueling activities at the loading dock – and potentially at county boat ramps too. That document has not yet been presented to county commissioners.

Later that week, Baldwin resumed his mobile refueling operations at the county dock.

ONEWHEEL: Officials ponder hoverboard and Onewheel prohibitions FROM PAGE 4

Mayor Dan Murphy asked Vose to first provide him with the framework of a potential hoverboard prohibition so he can discuss the enforcement and cost implications with Sgt. Brett Getman of the Manatee County Sheriff’s Office’s Anna Maria Unit.

“If you’re gonna ban them, somebody’s got to enforce it and it’s going to be the sheriff’s department. We need their input as to, could they do it or not?” Murphy said.

RIDER FEEDBACK

Grant Fulkerson enjoys riding his Onewheel on Anna Maria Island and he’s concerned about the prohibitions being discussed.

In an email to The Sun, Fulkerson said, “We have a Facebook group called ‘Sarasota float life’ and will be closely following this as this affects one of our favorite riding spots. Low tide and the compacted sand it leaves behind feels good when carving around

and enjoying the sunset. We also have several members that use the Onewheel as their primary commuting device for getting around the Island and this would greatly affect them.

“We rebuke the claim that these are unsafe machines and remind people there are only unsafe and unskilled riders. No one has been hurt in the several years I've been a member of this group and we don't understand why the council has taken a sudden

interest in us. I understand something new is sometimes scary, but we don't see the need to ban Onewheels on AMI and we hope an open line of communication with the commission can alleviate their worries. We would like to instead focus on the positives alternative transportation devices bring,” Fulkerson said in his email.

JANUARY 27, 2021

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THE SUN

JANUARY 27, 2021

2021 Anna Maria Island Sun Readers’ Choice Business

Business

People & Places

1

Antique/Collectible Store

40

Pool Contractor

77

School

2

Auto Service

41

Real Estate Assoc. (include location)

78

School Teacher (include location)

3

Bait & Tackle Shop

42

Real Estate Co.

79

Veterinarian (include location)

4

Bank (include location)

43

Rental Co.

80

Veterinary Clinic

5

Bike Rental

44

Resort

81

View

6

Boating Store

45

Retirement Community

82

Waiter/Waitress (include location)

7

Car Dealer

46

Service Org.

83

Yoga Instructor (include location)

8

Car Wash

47

Service Station

9

Carpet Cleaner

48

Shopping Center

Food & Entertainment

10

Clothing Store

49

Sign Maker (include location)

84

Bagel Shop

11

Convenience Store

50

Souvenir Shop

85

Bakery

12

Dry Cleaner (include location)

51

Spa

86

Barbecue

13

Electrician

52

Tattoo

87

Breakfast

14

Fitness

53

Travel Agency

88

Burger

15

Floor Coverings

54

Window Repair

89

Café

16

Florist

55

Women’s Apparel

90

Candy Store

17

Frame Shop

91

Chinese Restaurant

18

Gift Shop

People & Places

92

Deli

19

Grocery Store

56

Architect

93

Festival

20

Hair Salon

57

architectual Design

94

German Restaurant

21

Hardware Store (include location)

58

Art Gallery

95

Golf Course

22

Heat & Air

59

Attorney

96

Grouper Sandwich

23

Home Builder

60

Band

97

Health Food Store

24

Hotel/Motel

61

Bar & Grill

98

Ice Cream Place

25

Jewelry Store

62

Bartender (include location)

99

Italian Restaurant

26

Liquor Store

63

Beach

100 Live Theater

27

Manicurist (include location)

64

Boat Captain (include location)

101 Mexican Restaurant

28

Marina

65

Business Person

102 Most Romantic Restaurant

29

Men’s Apparel

66

Caterer (include location)

103 New Restaurant

30

Outdoor Sports Store

67

Charity

104 Night Spot

31

Pack & Ship

68

Chef (include location)

105 Pier

32

Painter (include location)

69

Chiropractor

106 Pizza

33

Pest Control

70

Dentist

107 Place to see a Sunset

34

Pet Grooming

71

Doctor

108 Restaurant (overall)

35

Pet Store

72

Eye Care

109 Seafood Restaurant

36

Pharmacist (include location)

73

Financial Planner

110 Specialty Gourmet

37

Pharmacy

74

Interior Design

111 Sub/Sandwich

38

Plumber

75

Massage Therapy

112 Takeout

39

Pool Cleaner (include location)

76

Personal Trainer (include location)

ENTRY FORM (Must be completed for votes to be accepted) Name: Address:

Phone: Day

| Night

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

Signature:

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. 13, Jan. 20, Jan. 27 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’s Newspaper, PO Box 1189, Anna Maria, FL 34216. All ballots must be in by January 29, 2021 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).

JANUARY 27, 2021

FOOD & WINE

THE SUN

Tying your restaurant to your community Joe Rimer

White Bean Hummus with roasted garlic, lump crab, and fresh pesto

PESTO BISTRO AND WINE BAR

P

esto Bistro and Wine Bar is a quaint Italian, French, and Mediterranean influenced restaurant that my wife, Lianne, and I opened this past September. It is located 3 miles East of Anna Maria Island on Cortez Road West.

When we opened Pesto Bistro and Wine Bar we wanted it to organically grow with its surrounding community. There was an idea and concept in mind for its menu and aesthetics, but we wanted both to develop and grow with the input of our patrons.

We also took some time to find locally sourced products and businesses that we could tie in with to enhance and diversify our menu. Being situated this close to Anna Maria Island and Cortez Village has been a tremendous help in sourcing quality products! Also, (organically speaking) we grow most of our herbs at the restaurant. Sadly, our basil is struggling but the mint is rocking!

Looking for several different experiences to offer at the location, we developed a Hospitality Night (Tuesdays) to give back to those who are in the hospitality industry (and have clearly been going through the most difficult time in the hospitality industries history), Wine Down Wednesdays, and Live Entertainment on Thursdays. Entertainers in the hospitality field are another group that has struggled through this pandemic, so we are thrilled to be adding additional entertainment Sunday evenings on our Patio.

Since the opening of our restaurant, the support we have seen from the area has been inspiring and heartfelt. The great comments, the thumbs up from patrons through the glass looking into the kitchen, and huge “word of mouth” support, has made the difficult process of opening in the middle of a pandemic all worthwhile! Our customers are awesome and we are looking

Hummus ingredients

2 pounds cannellini beans (drained and rinsed) 1 oz. Tahini paste Juice from 1 lemon 2 oz. Pinot Grigio (or other white wine) 1 tbs ground garlic 2 oz. EVOO (extra virgin olive oil) 2 tsp Kosher salt 2 tsp sugar Combine all ingredients and food process to a puree consistency. Use additional EVOO to adjust consistency thickness.

Fresh pesto ingredients

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forward to a time where all of us restaurateurs resume some sense of normalcy.

During my high school years, I lived in Coral Shores East and my first full-time restaurant job (at 14) was at a little place called Hannan’s Seafood Restaurant at Mount Vernon Shopping Center. That is a quarter-mile from Pesto. It feels really great this many years later to return to where I started in restaurants and once again be part of that community.

www.TheFeastRestaurantAMI.com

2 oz. fresh pesto, stemmed 1.5 oz. toasted pine nuts (pignolia) 2.5 oz. roasted garlic cloves, toss in oil and bake at 350 degrees till slightly brown 4 oz. EVOO (extra virgin olive oil) ½ tsp salt 2 oz. Pecorino Romano Combine all ingredients in a food processor and process to the desired consistency Additional products needed: Pasteurized lump or jumbo lump crab Roasted garlic cloves (procedure above) Croutes or crackers Kalamata olives Put a scoop of the hummus in a dish, top with the desired amount of crab meat and roasted garlic cloves, add a dollop of fresh pesto, serve with croutes or crackers and olives.

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REAL ESTATE

JANUARY 27, 2021

New construction surge

ractically every week there is a trend in the real estate market directly related to the COVID-19 pandemic.

The health crisis has taken over every aspect of our lives, but it appears that housing and real estate values have been especially impacted. The latest effect is the shortage of building lots to meet the demand for new construction.

The U.S. Commerce Department has reported that new home sales rose 19.1% in volume in the first 11 months of 2020 compared with the same period in 2019.

Even little Cortez has been affected, with two lots sold and one currently on the market in the past six months per realtor.com.

With the shortage of previously-owned homes on the market, record low interest rates and the desire for more space during the pandemic, builders are running out of land. Some builders are limiting the number of sales they put in contract, worried they won’t have enough buildable land to start construction on. Land development is a

Castles in the Sand LOUISE BOLGER long and expensive process that involves permitting and infrastructure planning long before a shovel goes in the ground.

This demand is also likely having an impact on green buildings according to the American Institute of Architects. Their goal was to hit “net zero” construction by 2030, however, they have a long way to go and few of their members are meeting their goal.

The majority of people just aren’t asking for green construction.

To complicate the new construction industry further, investors - sometimes partnering with builders - are building tens of thousands of houses expressly to rent. Their bet is that the housing culture

has changed enough this past year with individuals and families embracing suburban living to keep the demand for single-family homes increasing.

In addition, because of the demand for single-family homes, prices have soared, and in spite of low mortgage rates, availability is unaffordable for many. It’s projected that newly-constructed homes sold straight to investors will exceed 5% over the next few years, up from the historical average of approximately 1%.

When I went online at the Realtor Association of Sarasota and Manatee’s website so I could report on the December sales statistics, the first thing I saw was “single-family homes flying off the market in Sarasota and Manatee.” So here are the numbers on homes in flight.

Sales of single-family homes were up 41.6% from last December. The median sales price was up 6.8% to $357,900 and the average sale price was up 14.5% to $496,984.

The median time to contract was 60 days,

down 33.3%, and the month’s supply of homes is 1.5 months, down 54.4%.

Condo sales were up 45.1% from last December. The median sales price was up 19.5% to $239,000 and the average sales price was up 52.4% to $365,012. The median time to contract was 26 days, down 43.5%, and the month’s supply of condos is two months, down 51.2%.

According to the Realtor Association of Sarasota and Manatee’s president, “This is one of those weird moments when it’s a great time to sell, but it’s also a great time to buy. If this trend continues, and data is showing that to be the likeliest forecast, then sellers can get top dollar in record short timeframes, while buyers can lock in record low interest rates and buy a home that is going to be worth much more in a year from now. And if they do both, then they can get the best of both worlds.”

The best of both worlds doesn’t come along very often; enjoy while you can. Stay safe.

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JANUARY 27, 2021

THE SUN

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RENTALS: Legislators again seek state regulation FROM PAGE 1

the latest proposed legislation would essentially eliminate the ability of the Anna Maria, Bradenton Beach and Holmes Beach governments to regulate vacation rentals at the city level.

Both bills contain language that is similar to last year’s failed legislation. “A local law, ordinance or regulation may not allow or require the local inspection or licensing of public lodging establishments, including vacation rentals,� according to SB 522 and HB 219. “A local law, ordinance or regulation may regulate activities that arise when a property is used as a vacation rental if the law, ordinance, or regulation applies uniformly to all residential properties without regard to whether the property is used as a vacation rental, as a long-term rental or the property owner chooses not to rent the property.

However, a local law, ordinance or regulation may not prohibit vacation rentals or regulate the duration or frequency of rental of vacation rentals,� according to both bills. “The prohibitions set forth in this paragraph do not apply to any local law, ordinance or regulation

adopted on or before June 1, 2011, including when such law, ordinance, or regulation is being amended to be less restrictive with regard to a prohibition or a duration or frequency regulation,� according to the filed bills.

LOCAL CONCERNS

During the Jan. 14 Anna Maria City Commission meeting, commission Chair Carol Carter referenced a presentation that Florida League of Cities President Tony Ortez gave earlier that day to the ManaSota League of Cities. “He’s focused already on some of the vacation rental issues that we have. As some of you already know, Senate Bill 522 has already been introduced by Mr. Diaz. Again, the same thing as last year - they want to preempt to the state our ability to regulate and register vacation rentals. We’ll have the same battle again this year,� Carter said.

Carter said she and Mayor Dan Murphy have already met once with State Rep. Will Robinson (R-Bradenton), who in past years has been an ally in the Island cities’ fight on this issue, helping to defeat some of the previous efforts to take away the

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ability of local governments to regulate vacation rentals.

Carter said she and Murphy may also seek the assistance of former Senate President Bill Galvano, who, along with lobbyist Chip Case and City Attorney Becky Vose, helped defeat last year’s legislative efforts. “The situation is already tense and they haven’t even started session, so be aware of that,� Carter cautioned.

As they’ve done in recent years, the cities of Bradenton Beach and Holmes Beach have also retained lobbyists to oppose the proposed vacation rental legislation.

HOME RULE FLORIDA

During the Jan. 14 meeting, Anna Maria commissioners authorized Murphy to use $3,640 of the city’s funds to partner with and upgrade the existing Home Rule Florida website, www.homerulefl.com.

In recent years, the Home Rule Florida website has become a comprehensive source of information for citizens and public officials in their ongoing efforts to preserve and protect cities’ home rule rights.

When presenting his funding

request, Murphy said, “The Home Rule website is a website where residents or anyone else can fire off a letter to your legislator. You can fire off multiple letters regarding home rule, specifically directed at vacation rentals and pending legislation. “The site needs to be upgraded. It needs to be made more user friendly. It was put together initially by Bob Carter, Dick York and (the late) Norm Mansour.

They did a great job, but we need to fine-tune it. We’re asking for $3,640 to upgrade the site,� Murphy said.

He noted upgrades would include linking the Home Rule Florida website to other social media networks and platforms. “We get a clean website that’s easy to navigate,� Murphy told the commission, who then unanimously supported his request.

When asked later, Murphy said York and Bob Carter will remain involved with the Home Rule Florida website.

Carol Carter encourages concerned citizens and public officials from all three Island cities and beyond to email HomeRuleFl@gmail.com and ask to be added to the Home Rule Florida database and email distribution list.

24

THE SUN

www.amisun.com

JANUARY 27, 2021

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JANUARY 27, 2021

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25

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THE SUN

New administration building takes shape So much progress has already been made on West Manatee Fire Rescue’s new administration building that district staff may be able to move into their new offices by summer.

During a Jan. 19 district board meeting, Chief Ben Rigney gave an update on the new building’s progress, saying that substantial

completion is now expected

by April 27, weeks earlier than previously expected. He said the good weather for construction workers is part of the reason for the project possibly being completed early. More work remains to be done on the outside of the building before construction beings on the interior

SUBMITTED | WMFR

Clockwise above, the outside walls are up and part of the roof has already been constructed on the new WMFR administration building. A sign at the entrance of the 63rd Street construction site in west Bradenton announces that the new West Manatee Fire Rescue district administration building is coming soon. Much work still needs to be done on the inside of WMFR’s new administration building before it’s ready for staff to move in.

space. Once completed, the building will feature a conference room hardened to Miami-Dade hurricane standards along with offices and facilities for district administration staff, storage and plenty of room for staging and training to take place outside.

JANUARY 27, 2021

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JANUARY 27, 2021

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BEACH BEAT

VACCINE: 4500 doses in Manatee County

BRADENTON BEACH

the Moderna vaccine between Jan. 2-7 should also have received an automated message Jan. 25 to inform them of their second dose appointment on either Feb. 1 or 2 at Bennett Park.

Calls will come from 941-742-4300 and texts will come from 88911. Seniors are advised to put the numbers in their phone’s contacts to avoid calls being blocked as spam.

1/17, criminal mischief, city public parking lot, 105 First St. N. The victim parked his car and went to work. When he retuned to the car after work, he found the glass in the rear window of his car shattered.

1/21, 4 a.m., fire, Anna Maria Oyster Bar, Bridge Street Pier. While on foot patrol, the officer found a small fire near the maintenance area. He extinguished the fire and roped off the area.

HOLMES BEACH

1/16, 1:29 a.m., Marchman Act, Anchor Inn. A Monkey Bus driver told the officer about a rider who acted intoxicated and belligerent when he dropped him off at the bar. The officer went to the bar and found the subject asleep. He awakened the subject and determined he was too drunk to take of himself. He took the male to Blake Medical Center.

1/17, driving with no valid license, 2600 Gulf Drive.

The license plate reader alerted police about the driver’s situation.

1/18, 9:30 p.m., driving with a suspended license, 2700 Gulf Drive. The officer stopped the driver for excessive speed and found out his license was suspended. He was ticketed and the car was towed.

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FROM PAGE 1

RESIDENCY REQUIREMENT

Anyone 65 or older who is a Florida resident or who can prove at least part-time residency through the production of a Florida driver license or state-issued identification card, a utility bill with their name and a local address or a local rental agreement is eligible to receive the vaccine in Manatee County.

Recipients also need to take to their first appointment a completed copy of the COVID-19 consent form and a valid photo ID along with paperwork proving residency.

The residency requirement doesn’t apply to anyone who already received their first dose of the vaccine in Manatee County. Shot records cannot be transferred to another facility or jurisdiction.

HEALTHCARE WORKERS REGISTER SEPARATELY

Frontline healthcare workers and first responders must also show their medical credentials to receive the vaccine.

These individuals who do not have access to the COVID-19 vaccine at work are encouraged to enter their names into a separate vaccine standby pool registration for area first responders and frontline healthcare workers at www.vax. mymanatee.org/frontline.

SUBMITTED | FLORIDA DEPARTMENT OF HIGHWAY MANAGEMENT AND SAFETY

If you don’t have one of these or another way to prove at least part-time Florida residency, you may not be getting a vaccine in Manatee County.

When vaccine doses become available, workers will be notified in the same way as the general public - by operators calling from 311 to set up an appointment to receive a first dose of the vaccine. These operators work Monday through Friday from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m.

To receive a vaccine, healthcare workers need to download and complete a consent form available online at www.mymanatee.org/vaccine and bring that along with a valid photo ID and medical provider credentials to the appointment.

To sign up for the vaccine standby pool, visit www.vax. mymanatee.org.

For more information about receiving the vaccine in Manatee County, visit www.mymanatee.org/vaccine.

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THE SUN

SPORTS

JANUARY 27, 2021

Four undefeated teams show dominance the fields at The Center, the youth flag football players will take the field again on Tuesday, Feb. 2 for more gridiron fun.

BY MONICA SIMPSON SPEICAL TO THE SUN

Four adult recreational sports teams are surfacing as league leaders on the soccer pitch and the gridiron at The Center of Anna Maria Island. With two weeks of regular season play completed, will these undefeated teams take the season to the championship games?

In adult co-ed soccer, no stranger to the top of the ranks, Sato Real Estate starts the season 2-0 going into week three against the other undefeated team, Burton Brick and Tile. The anticipated 7 p.m. matchup on Wednesday, Feb. 3 will determine which team falls to the middle of the pack.

In the low scoring game last Wednesday night, Burton’s Olsin Crean scored the only goal in the game. The goalies for both teams were put to work with 11 saves by Jonathan Aragon for the winning team, while Steve Oelfke had 14 recorded saves for Allied.

All of the games were close in score and the battle between Sato Real Estate and Servis First Bank was no different. Will Kretzmann returned to the league this season with two goals in the game for Sato.

Teammate Race Arande had two of his own in the win.

Also with two goals, Servis’ Kevin Roan lead his team in scoring. The team’s third goal came from Ugur Durmaz.

Thursday night, the soccer field was converted for American football action. Much like adult soccer, two teams finished week two undefeated. At the top of the list moving into week three are Beach Bums and Ugly Grouper.

On Thursday, Feb. 4 Ugly Grouper faces Moss Builders with a 1-1 record and Beach Bums meets Sandbar also with one loss and one win.

SUN SCOREBOARD TUESDAY, JAN. 19 YOUTH CO-ED FLAG FOOTBALL WEEK #2 Beach Bums Tidy MD

31 25

Moss Builders Cloud

34 27

Coastline Contractors Rays Ramblings

28 7

Ugly Grouper 32 HSH

19

Gulf Drive Café Root Logix

17 27

WEDNESDAY, JAN. 20 ADULT CO-ED SOCCER WEEK #2 MONICA SIMPSON | SUN

Coach Brian Raulerson works with the Diamond Turf ballers in training getting ready to move on to competitive recreational sports in the years to come.

Slim’s Place’s failure to convert on the point after the touchdown lost the game for the team against top-ranked Beach Bums. JB Shuck connected with Jacob Roberts twice to put 12 points on the scoreboard for Slim’s.

A single point made the difference for Beach Bums with the extra point, giving them the victory. Quarterback Matt Briley hit Anthony Mannino for both TDs. Mannino’s hot hands grabbed the point after an interception in the game.

In the third game of the night, Ugly Grouper easily took the win against Salty Printing. Despite the veteran experience of the Salty squad, Ugly Grouper kept their

opponent out of the end zone and scored 33 points in the game.

Three interceptions for touchdowns by Ugly Grouper’s Brandon Kull, Octavious Cole and Melissa Acevedo gave them 18 points. Kull found Cole and Jaret Rojas for the two touchdowns.

In a two-point conversion, Cam Winston found the endzone for Ugly Grouper.

With the positive statistics for the Salty Printing team, Jesse Kunc made an interception, while teammates Tim Shaughnessy, Miguel Alicea, Danny Murphy, Zach Anabtawi, Charles Polis and Bri Roberts all made positive passing yardage for their team.

With maintenance being done on

Burton Brick and Tile Allied

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

Jiffy Lube Blalock Walters

(0-1-1) 5 (1-1-0) 6

Sato Real Estate Servis First Bank

(2-0-0) 4 (0-2-0) 3

The Gitt Team Slim’s Place

(1-1-0) 5 (0-1-1) 3

THURSDAY, JAN. 21 ADULT CO-ED FLAG FOOTBALL WEEK #2 Beach Bums Slim’s Place

(2-0) 13 (1-1) 12

Sandbar Solid Rock Construction

(1-1) 6 (1-1) 32

Ugly Grouper Salty Printing

(2-0) 33 (0-2) 0

Mi-Box Moss Builders

(0-2) 32 (1-1) 39

JANUARY 27, 2021

FUN IN THE SUN

Across 1 New England fish 4 Seriously injures 9 Frosh, next year 13 "Should I take that as __?"

14 Are 15 Boy Scout unit 17 *Pedigree ancestry 19 Luxury Honda 20 "Eight Miles High" band, with "The" 21 Farm building 23 Up to, in ads 24 The Beatles' "__ Love Her" 25 *Suit tailor's concern 28 Prospective elevator passenger's query 30 Villain played by Josh Brolin in most "Avengers" films 31 Flock female 32 Biblical paradise

Answers to 01-20-21 Crossword Puzzle.

34 Olympics segment 35 *Nightly ritual for young children 38 On the ocean 41 Red Sox manager Alex 42 Topeka's st.

45 "I want to see" 47 "The Lord of the Rings" wizard 49 *Teacher's outline 52 "__ all work out" 53 Barcelona gold 54 Field mouse 55 Diviner's deck 56 Opposite of sur 58 "Field of Dreams" subject, and where both parts of the answers to starred clues can go 61 Movie legend Greta 62 Appliance with burners 63 Actress Vardalos 64 Cannon of "Heaven Can Wait" (1978)

THE SUN

65 Sinatra classic with Anka lyrics 66 PIN requester Down 1 Sauerkraut, mainly 2 "Just this second" 3 Desperate 4 Drugs from docs 5 Rose of Guns N' Roses 6 Three on a sundial 7 "Hardball" cable channel 8 Rib eye, for one 9 Baseball great Musial's nickname 10 Beast fought by 47-Across 11 Canadian french fries dish 12 Where land and sky seem to meet 16 Most colorless 18 Chief Norse god 22 Like some mil. officers 25 Weaponless selfdefense 26 Mimic 27 Goalie's goal 29 "Hurry!"

33 It has both Kings and Queens counties, briefly 35 Uses needle and thread 36 Roman robe 37 Persian Gulf republic 38 Comparable in duration 39 "Not Taken" place in a Frost poem title 40 "My apologies"

42 Catastrophic New Orleans hurricane 43 The whole shebang 44 Cardinals or Falcons 46 Frequent co-producer of U2 albums

48 Dashboard feature 50 Suffix with proto- or cyto51 Southpaw 55 Low card 57 Sched. question mark

59 Disabled car need 60 "2 Fast 2 Furious" actress Mendes

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THE SUN

CLASSIFIED

ANNOUNCEMENTS BEACH YOGA ON Wednesdays, Saturdays & Sundays at 8:30am at the end of Pine Ave by the Sandbar Restaurant by donation. www.thriveyogafit. com BECOME A CERTIFIED YOGA TEACHER! Heal yourself, your family, and friends. Our program is February 19th- August 1st at Thrive Yoga & Fitness.

Call 570-497-7801 or visit https://www.thriveyogafit. com/ryt200-2021 ANNOUNCEMENT: Who wants to play bridge outside on the patio, or in the park, social distanced and face-masked, Call Kathleen at 314-324-5921 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.

BOATS 1993 26’ BAYLINER DECK BOAT 2002 Mercury outboard 225hp. Two Bimini tops, life jackets included.

No trailer $6500 OBO. Call 941-447-2198

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

Call us today! 941-778-3986

JANUARY 27, 2021

COMMERCIAL SALES, RENT & LEASE

HOME IMPROVEMENTS

LANDSCAPING & LAWN CARE

4 UNIT RESORT style 4-plex: $1,999,900 Holmes Beach fixer upper with View of beach on Gulf Dr. Duplex Near Beach Totally renovated near Beach $795,000. Island Real Estate Call Alan Galletto 941-232-2216

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

EMPLOYMENT OPEN POSITIONS AT ROSER CHURCH on historic Pine Ave, Anna Maria: Full-time Office Administrator and part-time Video Production Specialist. Go to roserchurch.com/employment.

HOTEL ON ANNA MARIA seeking Housekeeper Full time, Part time. Must have two years experience. We drug test.

Must speak English. If no Answer, leave message.

813-735-4373.

THE AWARD-WINNING ANNA MARIA ISLAND SUN, a weekly newspaper on Florida’s Gulf Coast, (https://amisun. com; www.facebook. com/AnnaMariaIslandSun), is looking for a freelance reporter/ photographer to cover events on this tourismdriven island. The ideal candidate will have reporting and photography experience at a community newspaper and have some experience writing for a news website. Local residents or those with previous local knowledge and willing to relocate here a plus. Resumes and cover letters may be emailed to news@amisun.com or

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

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

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

KERN CONSTRUCTION NEW Homes & Remodel.

Design/Build. Since 1968.

License # CBC 1261150.

Call Mike Kern 941-7781115 MASTER CARPENTER. Decks-Docks-FencingStairs & Railing. Free Estimates. Handyman Work. Call Richard 941448-3571

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

Free Estimates. Credit Cards Accepted.

ISLE TILE EXPERT INSTALLATION of floors, custom showers, backsplash, deck/lanai.

Licensed and insured.

References available.

Call Chris at 941-3028759 please visit website: isletileservices.com “HAMMERED HOMES” (SAVING HOMES SINCE 1984) Handyman services, renovations. Free Estimates & Consulting. Call before making decision, save money.

941-778-3206

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.

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.

LEGAL NOTICE NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that the undersigned, desiring to engage in business under the fictitious name of Fifty Three Fifty intends to register said name with the FL Dept of State, Division of Corporations, Tallahassee, FL and/ or the clerk of the Circuit Court of Manatee County.

Let’s Do This Beaches, LP. 5346 Gulf Drive, Holmes Beach FL 34217.

NOTICE OF PUBLIC SALE: NORMS TOWING gives Notice of Foreclosure of Lien and intent to sell these vehicles on 02/17/2021, 09:00 am at 1855 63RD AVENUE E. BRADENTON, FL 34203, pursuant to subsection 713.78 of the Florida Statutes. NORMS TOWING reserves the right to accept or reject any and/or all bids.

JA4AD2A31GZ014910 2016 Mitsubishi

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 CUSTOM PAINTING, Residential-Commercial, Interior/Exterior Professional quality work for over 40 years. Free estimates.

Call Larry at 941-400-8754.

References available.

IMMACULATE WATERFRONT HOME 520 Kumquat Dr. 4BD/5BA 3928sf Coastal Beauty! Prime location on AMI. $2,750,000 Call Charles Buky Coldwell Banker 941-228-6086 HOLMES BEACH 4BR/3.5BA home for sale. 1 ½ blocks from Beach. $1,399,000. Call 724-263-6390

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

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.

REAL ESTATE HOMES & CONDOS FOR SALE GULF FRONT CONDOS Vista Grande, WestWinds– CANAL FRONT HOME Holmes Beach –DUPLEXES & MORE Island Real Estate ASK big {Alan Galletto 941-232-2216}

BUYING OR SELLING on AMI? Call Kelly Gitt.

USAF Veteran. Keller Williams Realty today 941-799-9299

FOR SALE ADORABLE 2BR/2BA condo in four plex. One block to beach.

Fully furnished with pool.

Two car carport. Brenda Boyd May. Broker Boyd Realty 941-730-8589 3BR/3BA CONDO 396 Aruba Circle unit 302 in Marina Walk in Harbour Isle $749k Call Kelly Gitt Keller Williams Realty 941-799-9299

RENTALS: ANNUAL ANNUAL RENTALS WANTED! We have well qualified tenants for beach and mainland annual rentals, Full management or Finders fee.

Call today for details.

Ask for Paige DUNCAN REAL ESTATE 513-3821992.

COZY COTTAGE SANDPIPER 55+ Resort. 1 ½ minute walk to Beach or Bay. 1BR/1BA. Washer/ dryer For Sale or Rent. Call 941251-4767. Leave number on machine.

www.amisun.com

JANUARY 27, 2021

BUSINESS & SERVICE DIRECTORY HOME IMPROVEMENT

HOME IMPROVEMENT

THE SUN

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

PAINTING

TRANSPORTATION

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 ANNA MARIA BOOKING 2021 - 2022 winter seasons. Beautiful 2BR/2BA ground level home with carport. 1 1/2 blocks to Gulf. Updated granite counter tops, patio w/outdoor furniture, plantation shutters, flat screen TV's in every room & more. Call 941565-2373 COZY COTTAGE TASTEFULLY Furnished. Close to Beach, tennis courts and Boat Ramp, Holmes Beach. Call 941-778-2919

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. Mask & gloves provided. Reasonable rates! Call or text Anna 941-932-1600

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JANUARY 27, 2021

the Team Duncan Difference!

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

310 Pine Avenue Anna Maria, FL 34216

TeamDuncan.com

941.779.0304