Anna Maria Island Sun June 1, 2022

- Named Best Florida Newspaper In Its Class -

VOL 22 No. 34

June 1, 2022

The Memorial Day event featured a performance by the Anna Maria Island Concert Orchestra. BY JOE HENDRICKS SUN CORRESPONDENT | jhendricks@amisun.com

ANNA MARIA – The city’s 7th Annual Memorial Day Patriotic Symphony Salute honored those who gave their lives in service to their country. Monday morning’s ceremony at City Pier Park also honored the living military veterans in attendance. The ceremony began with an invocation from Bishop Michael Garrison, followed by the presentation of colors by a Marine Corps color guard, a memorial wreath placement by Marine Corps veteran Dave “Watchdog” Miner, the performance of “Taps” by trumpeter Tim Eaton and drummer Chuck Parr and the performance of “Amazing Grace” by bagpiper and Manatee County Sheriff’s Office Det. Nate Boggs. Mayor Dan Murphy welcomed the elected officials in attendance, including all five members of the Anna Maria City Commission and County Commissioner Carol Whitmore. The mayor recognized and thanked the city staff members for all the work they put into organizing and preparing for the day’s event, and for working on a holiday.

Anna Maria memorializes those who served, sacrificed JOE HENDRICKS | SUN

Hundreds honored the military under the shade sails at City Pier Park during Monday’s Memorial Day event.

Anna Maria taking vacation rental owners to court The lawsuit will seek a one-year suspension of the property owners’ city-issued vacation rental license. BY JOE HENDRICKS SUN CORRESPONDENT | jhendricks@amisun.com

ANNA MARIA – The city plans to file a lawsuit against the owners of a vacation rental home cited for five noise ordinance violations within a nine-month period. Located at 313 Magnolia Ave., the rental is managed by Vacasa and owned by the Orlando-based Mangoes on Magnolia LLC registered to brothers Mukesh and Raju Patel. During the May 18 code enforcement hearing at city hall, Special Magistrate Jerry Buhr declared the rental to be a public nuisance. Buhr’s declaration will be the basis of the lawsuit that City Attorney Becky Vose

INSIDE NEWS EDITORIAL CARTOON OUTDOORS REAL ESTATE SPORTS CROSSWORD CLASSIFIEDS

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will soon file with the 12th Judicial Circuit Court in Manatee County. Vose plans to file the suit after the city receives the court reporter’s verbatim transcript of the special magistrate hearing at which Code Enforcement Manager Sandy Olson presented the city’s case. Olson’s May 18 presentation included testimony from two Manatee County Sheriff’s Office deputies, the deputies’ body camera footage and testimony from two neighboring property owners. According to Olson, noise violation citations carrying $35 fines were issued to five different rental guests between June 5, 2021 and March 16 of this year. The special magistrate hearing and the pending lawsuit were discussed at the May 26 city commission meeting, with the commission voting 4-0 in favor of filing the lawsuit. SEE RENTALS, PAGE 27

Bird nest discovered in trees slated for woodchipper With an active bird nest at stake, locals are hoping that state officials will step in to save the trees at Kingfish Boat Ramp. BY KRISTIN SWAIN SUN STAFF WRITER | kswain@amisun.com

HOLMES BEACH – Some Manatee County commissioners may have given up on the fight to save more than 80 trees planned for destruction at Kingfish Boat Ramp, but many constituents hope the discovery of an active great blue heron nest in one of the trees will change minds. County Commissioner Carol Whitmore led the fight to save trees slated for destruction or relocation at Kingfish, including at the shady picnic area, as part of planned renovations at the popular park

during a recent meeting. However, Commission Chair Kevin Van Ostenbridge said that he didn’t think saving the trees is a fight that commissioners can win with the renovation plans already at 100% completion and a fall 2023 deadline for finishing the project looming. Of the 120-140 trees in the park, more than 80 are planned to be removed or relocated to make way for more parking. All of the Australian pine trees, which provide shade along the shoreline and a place for birds to nest, are slated for destruction. As of May 28, dozens of trees at the boat ramp had been marked with caution tape, indicating they are to be removed, though no timeline for the removal was available as of press time for The Sun. Some are hoping that the discovery of SEE BIRD, PAGE 27

HUNTERS POINT, Cortez

HATS OFF TO GRADS at AME,

School for Constructive Play. 4

Anna Maria Island, Florida

SEE MEMORIAL DAY, PAGE 25

Village Marina battle over canal. 11 ALGAE VACUUM considered by Holmes Beach officials. 5

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Police confront armed man on pier Two Bradenton Beach police officers were among those who faced an armed man at Twin Piers. BY JASON SCHAFFER SUN CORRESPONDENT | jschaffer@amisun.com

BRADENTON BEACH – Four agencies responded to a suicide attempt by an armed man on May 24 on the erosion control groins at Cortez Beach known as Twin Piers. Responding to a 911 call at 12:26 p.m. about an attempted suicide in progress, Officer John Tsakiri and Lt. Lenard Diaz of the Bradenton Beach Police Department found a man sitting on the end of the pier with Manatee County Marine Rescue and EMS workers, according to their police report. The man reportedly had asked a number of people to leave, including a grandmother and her young grandchild. “I saw the way he was sitting with his right arm and hand between his legs, and I felt strongly he had a gun in that hand,” Tsakiri said. “I took out my binoculars to get a bet-

JASON SCHAFFER | SUN

ter look, but due to the way he was sitting, I still couldn’t see the gun. Lt. Diaz and I were walking towards the subject with our weapons drawn when we got a call on the radio from the MSO (Manatee County Sheriff ’s Office) Marine Boat confirming he was holding a gun.” After receiving confirmation that the subject was armed, both officers jumped off the cement pier to take

cover behind it. Diaz continued to call to the armed man to put down the gun so they could talk, but the man continued to point it at his chest and head, screaming loudly at times and refusing the officer’s request. “The last thing we wanted was for anyone to get hurt, but after continuing to ignore our commands, and at one point starting to stand up, I told Lt. Diaz that if he pointed the gun at us,

I would have no choice but to engage him with my firearm,” Tsakiri said. After sitting back down facing the water on the end of the pier, the armed man leaned forward and fell into the water as a gunshot was heard. “I ran up to the water expecting to see blood in the water, but there was nothing. I didn’t see any wounds or blood. He missed,” Tsakiri said. A Marine Rescue worker jumped in the water and recovered the man, who, after being brought to shore, was determined to be unharmed. He was transported to HCA Florida Blake Hospital in a Baker Act action taken by police. The gun was recovered by Marine Rescue Capt. Joe Westerman, who found it in the water near the scene of the incident. The 9 mm automatic handgun had eight live rounds remaining when it was recovered. Tsakiri spoke to the man at Blake, who said he never wanted to harm anyone other than himself. He said he had been let go from his job in Sarasota earlier in the day and had not contacted his parents or girlfriend to inform them of his intentions to harm himself, according to the police report. No charges were filed.

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ISLAND NEWS

IN BRIEF

Man caught in Bean Point rip tide survives On Thursday afternoon, May 26, a 57-year-old Texas man was caught in the rip tide at Bean Point, according to Sgt. Brett Getman, of the Manatee County Sheriff’s Office Anna Maria Unit. Getman said the man was unconscious when first responders arrived and was transported to HCA Florida Blake Hospital in Bradenton. “He is alive and expected to make a recovery,” Getman said. Kerbi Adkins witnessed the event and shared the following post on Facebook: “An older Asian man got pulled down by the waves, collapsed and was unresponsive on the beach. I was one of the first ones on scene and stayed with the man while my husband was on the phone with 911, and until EMS showed up.” When commenting on Adkins’ Facebook post, Anna Maria resident Charlie Trygg noted the emergency response took place near his home on the 700 block of North Shore Drive.

Charter amendment questions on Thursday agenda The Bradenton Beach City Commission will meet on Thursday, June 2 at 6 p.m. The commission will consider approval of a consent agenda that includes an $805 invoice from attorney Robert Watrous for services pertaining to a past Sunshine Law lawsuit and a $14,407 invoice for regular legal services provided by City Attorney Ricinda Perry. Perry will then present the commission with an ordinance that codifies and formalizes the charter amendment questions to be placed on the fall ballot. The public is invited to comment on items on and off the meeting agenda.

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Students, teachers all smiles as AME wraps school year

It was all smiles as students wrapped up the 2021-22 school year at Anna Maria Elementary School. BY JASON SCHAFFER SUN CORRESPONDENT | jschaffer@amisun.com

HOLMES BEACH – As parents waited in line to pick up their children on the last day at Anna Maria Elementary School, the graduating fifth-grade class made a lap around the school, getting a round of applause from fellow students, teachers and school staff. The victory lap ended as every student gave Holmes Beach Police Chief Bill Tokajer a high-five while parents and staff continued to clap in support of the children who will be moving on from the little school by the bay. “It has been an amazing school year,” said Alyson Larson, parent of fourth-grader Alba Rose Larson. “We got to participate in field day last week. Having the parents involved and back out there with the kids was super special.” “It was great to see the kids all back together and see their parents get involved. It was just fantastic,” said David Larson, Alyson’s husband. The 2021-22 school year that ended May 25 saw a return to normalcy after the peak of the COVID-19 pandemic halted the parent-teacher involvement that AME students and parents are accustomed to. This year, in-person meetings with parents and teachers returned along with plays, field trips and other activities. “The beginning of the school year was a little tricky; we had to be flexible,” AME Principal Mike Masiello said. “It was around March when things

JASON SCHAFFER | SUN

Graduating fifth-grade students do a victory lap around the school that concluded with a high-five with Holmes Beach Police Chief Bill Tokajer. began to feel normal and the kids seemed to be really engaged. We were able to have all of our field trips, plays and fifth-grade graduation. It ended up being a great year.” This was Principal Masiello’s first year at AME. At the beginning of the school year, he had no idea what COVID would bring when it came to the way his new school would operate. Fortunately, AME had one of Manatee County’s lowest COVID numbers throughout the year, with 27 student cases and two staff SEE AME, PAGE 12

Clock tower boardwalk open, bell silent The boardwalk beneath the clock tower at the foot of the Bradenton Beach Pier is open again, but the bell remains silent. The area directly beneath the tower had been JASON SCHAFFER | SUN closed for repairs The clock tower boardwalk is no to the clock tower’s longer blocked. bell system and was barricaded with caution tape due to concerns that the bell could fall. A technician made initial repairs on May 24 to the bell system, which typically rings on the hour. “The technician ran into an unforeseen problem with the bell striker,” Bradenton Beach Public Works Director Tom Woodard wrote city officials in an email. “It needs to be replaced. The clock controller has been upgraded and works great. The bell is secure but will not sound until we get the striker back.” The bell striker will be shipped from Cincinnati, and Woodard expects the striker replacement to be completed within a few weeks.

ANNE YARBROUGH | SUN

First graduation ever Left, Wilder King collects his diploma, book and a hug from teacher Barb Burgess. Right, Bayla Lance and Cairo Parks smile during the Voluntary Prekindergarten graduation ceremony for the School for Constructive Play at Gloria Dei Lutheran Church on May 26.

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Algae removal to start in Spring Lake Holmes Beach commissioners are exploring ways to rid the city’s waterways of algae mats, including an eco-harvester. BY KRISTIN SWAIN SUN STAFF WRITER | kswain@amisun.com

HOLMES BEACH – City commissioners are experimenting with ideas to get rid of algae blooms and they’ve chosen Spring Lake as a test subject. After an early May presentation from members of the city’s Clean Water Ad-Hoc Committee, commissioners delved into a discussion on potential algae removal solutions during a May 24 meeting. While they think some of the ideas the committee produced are good, they’re not sure of their feasibility. City Engineer and Supervisor of Public Works Sage Kamiya told commissioners more about one of the committee’s suggestions, an eco-harvester. The small barge-type device would vacuum algae mats from the water’s surface. Kamiya said it would be in the city’s best interests financially to purchase one of the machines rather than to con-

KRISTIN SWAIN | SUN

Lyngbya mats cover an area close to shore at the Kingfish Boat Ramp on May 26. tract the work out, but there would still be additional costs to consider, such as staffing and disposal of the algae. Mayor Judy Titsworth noted that using an eco-harvester to remove algae

would require the algae to be pushed into a containment area, such as a canal, which could be in use for a couple of weeks or more depending on the size of the algae bloom. She also said

that while the algae is being contained, it would require the use of booms, preventing boats from being used in that area. Kamiya said that it would take about $100,000 or more to purchase one of the machines, compared to the cost to contract the work - about $30,00050,000 per canal per incident. Before city leaders spend the money to buy the equipment, they’re opting to contract a small project and complete water testing to see if it works the way they hope it does. Commissioners all agreed to use up to $30,000 in contingency funds, if necessary, to conduct a test at Spring Lake. While an aeration system has been removing some of the acidity from the lake’s waters over the past few years, it doesn’t do anything for the several inches of muck lining the bottom. Commissioner Carol Soustek pointed out that city leaders have been talking about removing the accumulated debris at the bottom of the lake for years and suggested they use it as a test subject for the eco-harvester and water testing. “We’ve got to see what’s going to work,” she 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 Owner/CEO Mike Field Editor Cindy Lane General Manager Bob Alexander Reporters/Photographers Joe Hendricks Jason Schaffer Kristin Swain Columnists Louise Bolger Rusty Chinnis Contributors Steve Borggren Captain Rick Grassett Monica Simpson Tom Vaught Captain Dave White Layout Ricardo Fonseca Digital Editor Kristin Swain Advertising Director Shona Otto Advertising Assistant Pamela Lee Classifieds Bob Alexander Graphics Elaine Stroili Ricardo Fonseca Distribution Bob Alexander Connor Field Tony McNulty Brian Smith Accounting Leslie Ketchum Co-founding publishers Mike Field Maggie McGinley Field Family-owned since 2000

Borggren earns accolades Anna Maria Island Sun political cartoonist Steve Borggren won first and second place awards in the Editorial Cartooning category of the Florida Press Club’s 2021 Excellence in Journalism Competition. His cartoons depicted 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.

LETTERS TO THE EDITOR

Stevely passing lamented It is with a very sad heart that we let you know that FISH board member John Stevely passed away Friday. Many of you know that John had been battling cancer for a while now and unfortunately, it is believed that the cancer may have contributed to the heart attack he suffered Friday while walking in one of his favorite places, Robinson Preserve. FISH and all of Cortez has lost one of our biggest advocates and best friends. John served on the FISH Board for 30+ years since its inception, first as our Florida Sea Grants representative, then in retirement as a citizen board member. He was instrumental in the purchase of our 98-acre FISH Preserve. We were blessed to have someone with so much passion and love willing to serve our community.

We will be ever grateful for the time we had with John and will miss him immensely. Sincerely, Jane vonHahmann Cortez

Pine Avenue follies Boy, the follies never seem to end in Anna Maria thanks to the mayor. We all have dealt with so many of these “follies” it’s hard to keep up. There was the destruction of a savable piece of local history, the one and only REAL city pier, which has turned into a sterile concrete pier with an empty building on it. Then the mayor’s inability to find an appropriate partner for the empty room, and having a many years’ game of political table tennis with Mote, it still sits empty. So now, we have another perpetuated folly called “Reimagine Pine Ave.” The mayor had grand ideas for Pine Ave., parking for all, sidewalks, crosswalks and bike lanes. I was at one of the meetings

and asked the mayor to his face about the bike lanes. He told me the bikes lanes were a priority! So the first thing he did was remove the bike lanes from his folly. So now we sit and wonder why only one company was interested in this newest folly? Was it the fact that the two most important things the mayor wanted was more crosswalks and sidewalks, the same two things that tourists and locals alike barely use? He melted under the pressure of business owners who only cared about parking. He would have saved a lot of time and money by just making Pine Ave. one big crosswalk with diagonal white lines up and down the street. So I for one wonder if these companies the mayor was hoping to come make his folly come true, were actually cyclist owned and want no part of this next mess. That would be awesome! Folly on! Rick Lewis Anna Maria

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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. June 9, 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. June 1, 9:30 a.m. – Community Redevelopment Agency meeting June 2, 6 p.m. – City Commission meeting June 15, 1 p.m. – Planning and Zoning board meeting June 16, noon – City Commission meeting

THE SUN

HOLMES BEACH

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

Please visit www.holmesbeachfl.org or contact city hall for more information. June 1, 5 p.m. – Planning Commission meeting June 8, 10 a.m. – Clean Water ad-hoc committee meeting June 14, 5 p.m. – City Commission meeting

ISLAND-WIDE

June 15, 2 p.m. – Coalition of Barrier Island Elected Officials meeting, Anna Maria City Hall MARK YOUR CALENDAR

WEDNESDAY, JUNE 1

Beach market, Coquina Beach, 2650 Gulf Drive S., Bradenton Beach, 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.

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THURSDAY, JUNE 2

AMI Chamber Sunrise Breakfast, Judy’s Restaurant, 9516 Cortez Road W., 7:30 a.m., $5 for members or $10 for prospective members. Reserve to 941-778-1541 Sunshine Stitchers knit and crochet, Island Branch Library, 5701 Marina Drive, Holmes Beach, 2 p.m. Register online manateelibrary.libcal.com/ event/9178656 Thursdays in Paradise Stroll featuring local art, music and food, Bridge Street, Bradenton Beach, 5-8 p.m.

FRIDAY, JUNE 3

Beach market, Coquina Beach, 2650 Gulf Drive S., Bradenton Beach, 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Forty Carrots, Island Branch Library, 5701 Marina Drive, Holmes Beach, 10 a.m. Register online manateelibrary. libcal.com/event/8974936

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JUNE 1, 2022

COVID-19 is on the rise in Manatee County, with the community level rising from low to medium for the first time in at least three months.

COVID-19 IN MANATEE COUNTY

May 23 Cases 223 % Positivity 17.93% Deaths < 10 % Eligible population vaccinated 72.2% New hospital admissions 24 May 29 Cases 246 % Positivity 18.76% Deaths <10 % Eligible population vaccinated 72.3% New hospital admissions 35 Source: CDC, Manatee County Schools

COVID-19 IN MANATEE COUNTY SCHOOLS

May 23 Anna Maria Elementary - 0 staff, 0 students Manatee County - 6 staff, 7 students Total since first day of school (AME) - 2 staff, 27 students Total since first day of school (county) - 896 staff, 4,632 students May 29 Anna Maria Elementary - 0 staff, 0 students Manatee County - 1 staff, 3 students Total since first day of school (AME) - 2 staff, 27 students Total since first day of school (county) - 911 staff, 4,683 students

? y k c u L ’ n i l Fe e

A T P O AD

PACE CENTER FOR GIRLS

! Y K C DU

13th Annual Lucky Ducky Race SATURDAY I JUNE 11TH, 2022

Stop by any AMOB location to purchase a duck for your chance to win 1st Prize 2nd Prize JEEP WRANGLER

WEEKLY DINNER FOR TWO

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at any AMOB for a YEAR!

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JUNE 1, 2022

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Snooks Adams Kids Day fun for kids, pirates

T

he Anna Maria Island Privateers held the annual Snooks Adams Kids Day on May 28 at City Field in Holmes Beach. The event was founded by the late Holmes Beach Police Chief and Privateer Snooks Adams, who began the tradition by bringing children from Anna Maria Elementary School to the beach for a picnic and games. When Adams retired, he asked the Privateers to take over the event. The nonprofit organization is dedicated to giving back to the community, especially its children.

SUBMITTED

Above, children enjoyed pizza and snacks while talking to the pirates at the annual Snooks Adams Kids Day at City Field in Holmes Beach. Right, the Olsen family, from North Port, enjoyed a day of fun with pirates at the annual Snooks Adams Kids Day.

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Campaign for Ukraine Join the Anna Maria Island Rotary Foundation and Slicker’s Eatery in their efforts to support Ukrainians in need. Through fundraising efforts, partnerships and a community effort for peace on Sunday, June 12 from 4-8 p.m. at The Center of Anna Maria Island, they hope to stand in solidarity

with the people of Ukraine and do what they can to support them. To offer a raffle prize or get information on sponsorship opportunities, call Katy Demick at 941-524-5769. Donations to help the Ukrainian people can be dropped off at Tortuga Inn Beach Resort at 1325 Gulf Drive N., Bradenton Beach.

JUNE 1, 2022

Roser Church

“...a beautiful place to explore your faith...”

SUNDAY WORSHIP 8:30 AM or 10:00 AM IN PERSON in the Sanctuary Nursery • Children’s Church ONLINE • Watch LIVE or LATER

RoserChurch.com

Text ROSER to 22828 to receive the weekly eBulletin The CHAPEL is open during office hours for prayer and meditation 941-778-0414 • 512 Pine Ave, Anna Maria • FOLLOW us on Facebook @RoserChurch

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Hunters Point developer sues Cortez Village Marina The lawsuit seeks an injunction that would prohibit the Cortez Village Marina and its clients from using the navigational canal. BY JOE HENDRICKS SUN CORRESPONDENT | jhendricks@amisun.com

CORTEZ – Hunters Point Resort & Marina has sued the neighboring Cortez Village Marina to keep it from using a canal where Cortez Village Marina claims Hunters Point should not be allowed to build new docks. The Hunters Point property under development on Cortez Road West includes 86 three-story, net-zero energy use solarpowered townhomes, many of which are expected to have private docks along the canal that surrounds the Hunters Point property on three sides. Hunters Point is about two-tenths of a mile west of the Cortez Village Marina and boat storage facility at 12160 Cortez Road W. Boca Raton-based attorney Susan Roeder Martin filed the lawsuit in the 12th Judicial Circuit Court in Manatee County on May 26. The civil case has been assigned to Judge Charles Sniffen. As of Friday, the defendant’s attorney had not filed a response to the complaint.

INJUNCTIONS SOUGHT

The complaint states that Marshall Gobuty's company, Cortez Road Investments and Finance Inc., owns the Hunters Point property, including the canal constructed the 1950s and purchased by Gobuty in 2016. The lawsuit seeks a temporary injunction, followed by a permanent injunction, to prohibit Cortez Village Marina, owned by MHC Cortez Village LLC, from using the private canal surrounding the Hunters Point property.

JOE HENDRICKS | SUN

This model of the Hunters Point development includes the canal that surrounds the property on three sides. Marina customers use the canal to access the Intracoastal Waterway (ICW) near the Seafood Shack restaurant, as do several homeowners who live on the canal. The lawsuit does not seek to prohibit homeowners with existing county-permitted docks from using the canal. The complaint alleges the marina is unlawfully using the canal without the authorization of the property owner, and that the marina owners are encouraging customers to unlawfully enter the canal by advertising that those who lease marina slips can use the canal to access the ICW. “There are no easements, licenses or other use authorizations for navigation dedicated to the Cortez Village Marina or the general public found in the chain of title,” according to the complaint. “The public records of Manatee County do not indicate that any additional rights to build docks, tie up boats or utilize the private canal were granted to defendant’s predecessors or to the public. Therefore, defendant’s use is limited to a single dock with but one boat. "MHC Cortez Village has led its 350 patrons to believe that they can lawfully utilize the private canal to access the Intracoastal,

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

as is evidenced in its marina brochure,” Martin stated in an email that included the lawsuit complaint. When the proposed Hunters Point development was being approved by the Manatee County Commission in 2017, several residents who own docks along the canal voiced concerns about losing the use of the canal. In response, Gobuty’s attorney, Caleb Grimes, said, “We don’t believe anybody with a current dock has anything that is improper. These people have the right to use them as they have historically used them.”

DOCK PERMITTING CHALLENGE

MHC Cortez Village LLC filed a petition for an administrative hearing in July 2021 against Cortez Road Investments and Finance Inc. and the Southwest Florida Water Management District (SWFWMD) challenging the district’s issuance of a permit allowing Hunters Point to build docks in the canal. The petition claims the construction of the new docks would significantly increase and impair vessel traffic in the canal, negatively affecting Cortez Village Marina

users’ ability to safely navigate the canal and affecting the marina's profitability and ongoing operations. The petition requests the dock permit be revoked or modified to protect the marina’s riparian rights and navigational interests. In December, Hunters Point Vice President of Development Ashley Klearman sent a construction update letter to those who purchased the Hunters Point homes about to be constructed. “MHC is arguing the proposed docks hinder the navigation of the canal, even though the proposed docks have been designed to provide as minimal an intrusion into the canal as possible and are in full compliance with all local, state and federal rules and regulations. It is our legal team’s position that this petition is without merit and that SWFWMD correctly issued the permit,” Klearman stated in her letter. According to Gobuty, the administrative hearing is scheduled to take place on Tuesday, June 14.

BOAT LIFT INSTALLATION

In another canal-related matter, Hunters Point sent a cease and desist letter to George and Wendy Kokolis on May 17 regarding the boat lift being installed at their undeveloped lot on the canal directly across from the Hunters Point property. The Kokolis’ lot is next to the residence they own at 4317 126th St. W. “It has come to my attention that you are building a dock/boat lift on Cortez Road Finance and Investments’ private canal. This letter is to advise you to immediately cease construction and to remove the works that you have already placed on my client’s private property. If you do not immediately remove your facilities, we will file suit and seek damages from you. We will also request attorney’s fee and costs,” Martin stated in her letter. As of late last week, the boat lift had not been removed.

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AME: Wraps up school year FROM PAGE 4

cases. Masiello, along with the teachers and staff at AME, hope next year will be even more “normal” than this year, allowing students and staff to foster creativity in and out of the classroom. “We love this school. Every single morning, we park the car and take our time walking our kids up the seashell path and get to give them a hug and a kiss,” said Kathi Reuter, who along with

her husband, Nick, have two children attending AME. “Last year we couldn’t do it; we just had to drop them off. The school plays are back again, which is awesome. It’s all just great,” Nick Reuter said. Due to recent events in Texas, school security is on everybody’s mind, and AME has established a good relationship with the local police. Holmes Beach Police Officer Christine Labranche is fully armed

on school grounds when students and teachers are present, and teachers have security badges that allow them to alert police at the touch of a button should an emergency situation arise. Students and staff are also on a first-name basis with Police Chief Bill Tokajer, who was present for fifth-grade graduation, the last day of school and many other AME events. Principal Masiello said the security of students and staff is absolutely a top priority at AME. “I feel pretty fortunate to be where I am,” he said.

JUNE 1, 2022

NICK REUTER | SUBMITTED

AME kindergarteners and second-graders perform "Pajama Party” on May 17, the final school play of the 2021-22 school year.

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JUNE 1, 2022

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2021

JOE HENDRICKS | SUN

City officials hope to improve pedestrian safety along Pine Avenue with the installation of new sidewalks, crosswalks and lighting.

City issuing new RFPs for Pine Avenue projects After receiving only one bid proposal for approximately $2 million, the city of Anna Maria has canceled its original request for proposals (RFP) for the Reimagining Pine Avenue sidewalk, crosswalk and lighting improvements. The city will now issue one RFP seeking bids to install brick paver or rubberized composite sidewalks along both sides of Pine Avenue and issue another RFP for the street lighting. The city’s Public Works Department, with possible assistance from a subcontractor, will install the new Pine Avenue crosswalks.

Fertilizer ban in effect

‛S YOUR COMFORT ZONE? WHERE

Manatee County and Sarasota County ordinances prohibit nitrogen or phosphorus fertilizer application from June 1 through Sept. 30. “Summer-safe” yard products like iron, zinc, manganese or fertilizers with “0” as the first two numbers on the label (as in 0-0-6) do not contain nitrogen or phosphorous. Summer rains wash fertilizer into the Gulf of Mexico, Sarasota Bay, the Manatee River and other waterways; too much can cause algae blooms - including red tide - and fish kills. Learn more by visiting www.befloridian.org or www.sarasotabay.org.

NESTING NEWS Turtle nests laid: 92 (Record: 544 in 2019) False crawls: 80 (Record: 831 in 2010) Source: Anna Maria Island Turtle Watch and Shorebird Monitoring

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JUNE 1, 2022

Speed tables produce compliments, complaints The city’s traffic engineer will be asked to review the speed table designs before any further action is taken. BY JOE HENDRICKS SUN CORRESPONDENT | jhendricks@amisun.com

ANNA MARIA – City officials want to reevaluate three speed tables recently installed in the 500, 600 and 800 blocks of South Bay Boulevard as part of a street paving project. On May 26, commissioners discussed the speed tables and heard concerns voiced by residents and property owners about the design and location of the new traffic calming devices. Thursday’s meeting also included a brief discussion about the new speed bump installed by the humpback bridge on Crescent Drive. Mayor Dan Murphy said the South Bay Boulevard speed tables have already produced compliments and complaints and were designed to be driven over at 25 mph. “It will certainly get your attention if you’re going faster than that,” he said. Pat Olesen lives on the 500 block of South Bay Boulevard. She suggested there was a lack of community input and advance notification before the speed tables were installed. She also expressed concerns about the noise created by the vehicles passing over them and she questioned whether they can safely be driven over at 25 mph. Olesen said the speed tables may be better suited for vehicles traveling 5-10 mph and she requested the one on the 500 block be removed or relocated. When addressing the commission, resident David Haddox said, “My concern is you cannot go 25 mph safely over that speed table. Is there another design we can explore that allows people to go closer to the speed limit but still accomplishes our goals of not allowing them to speed?” Haddox also suggested gaps be cut in the speed tables so bicyclists can pass through them instead of over them. Galati Yacht Sales is located on the 900 block of South Bay Boulevard and when addressing the commission, Chris Galati said, “My main concern for the city is the liability factor. If you hit one of those speed bumps at 25 (mph) you’re launching somebody to the ceiling of a vehicle. That is not an improvement.” Galati said the speed tables break the flow of traffic and he’s already seen debris falling out of golf carts as they pass over them. “It’s just a disaster waiting to happen,” he said. Galati questioned whether the speed tables were installed according to Florida Department of Transportation guidelines. Olesen then noted the guidelines she reviewed call for 3 to 4 inches of elevation

JOE HENDRICKS | SUN

Above, questions have been raised regarding the speed at which a vehicle can safely pass over the new South Bay Boulevard speed tables. Right, a temporary speed bump has been installed near the humpback bridge on Crescent Drive. Below, the Crescent Drive speed bump forces vehicles to slow down near the humpback bridge.

and the South Bay Boulevard speed tables appear to be closer to 4 to 4.5 inches high. Murphy noted the speed tables were part of the public discussions that took place prior to repaving of South Bay Boulevard, but he agreed that more public participation and notification would be beneficial. He also agreed with Haddox’s suggestion regarding gaps for bikes to pass through. Before taking further action, Murphy recommended asking the city’s traffic engineer to review the speed table designs to determine whether they were installed according to state standards. “We know what the specs are. It’s a matter of verifying that we got what we paid for,” Murphy said. He noted the speed tables could be removed for $4,000 each if that’s the commission’s desire. Commissioner Deanie Sebring said she’d not yet driven over the speed tables, but changes are needed if they don’t allow vehicles to pass over them at 25 mph. Commissioner Jon Crane said, “Going forward, I’d like to make sure something

that’s going to impact residential neighborhoods is better noticed – and maybe it was, I don’t know. I’ve never been a fan of speed bumps, but it was explained to us in a meeting and I voted for them.” Commissioner Robert Kingan said the feedback he’s received has been 5-1 in favor of keeping the speed tables. “If there is a problem with their installation in terms of the height, I absolutely agree that should be looked into. I like the idea of having the cut in the middle for bicycles. I certainly wouldn’t recommend taking them away at this point, but I would recommend making sure they are correctly installed and fit for service,” he said. With Commissioner Mark Short absent, the commission reached unanimous consensus in support of a study Murphy recommended. Murphy said he would present the study results to the commission on Thursday, June 9.

SPEED BUMP

Murphy said one temporary speed bump was recently installed on each side of the humpback bridge on Crescent Drive,

near the Pine Avenue intersection, but the one on the north side of the bridge was removed due to complaints from residents about the noise made by vehicles passing over it. Murphy said the remaining speed bump is not designed to be driven over at 25 mph and was installed to see what could be quickly done to alleviate speeding over a bridge that’s also frequently used by pedestrians. “It’s a pedestrian fatality waiting to happen. It’s very narrow, there’s blind corners,” Murphy said. Kingan said the speed bump and the warning signs on both sides of the bridge have slowed traffic. “I feel much safer going over that bridge now as a pedestrian. Not completely safe, but safer,” Kingan said. Public Works Manager Dean Jones said the speed bump has made it safer for his staff to get in and out of the nearby Public Works building. No commission action was requested or taken regarding the Crescent Drive speed bump.

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JUNE 1, 2022

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City supports The Center with $30,000 donation The city of Anna Maria continues to be a strong supporter of The Center. BY JOE HENDRICKS SUN CORRESPONDENT | jhendricks@amisun.com

ANNA MARIA – The city will provide The Center of Anna Maria Island with $30,000 during The Center’s upcoming fiscal year. Mayor Dan Murphy recommended the contribution during the May 26 city commission meeting. With Commissioner Mark Short absent, the commission voted 4-0 in support of Murphy’s recommendation. Executive Director Chris Culhane told the commission that The Center is doing well financially. He said The Center is seeing record participation in the programs offered and now has more programing than ever before, which resulted in the hiring of two new staff members - a program director and a communications and marketing person. Culhane said The Center is currently preparing for its summer camp programs and continues to provide and add more programs for seniors, including Meals on Wheels, Friendship Dining and

JOE HENDRICKS | SUN

The Center of Anna Maria Island provides recreational opportunities and more for people of all ages. the Senior Adventures program operated in conjunction with the Annie Silver Community Center in Bradenton Beach. Culhane said The Center has several facility upgrades planned, including upgrades to the showers and fitness facilities. He said The Center also has $200,000 in immediate capital needs for the air conditioning system and other facility-related necessities. Murphy noted the commission and the city gave The Center $25,000 last year,

and that this year’s contribution will be taken from the recreation fund that currently has a balance in excess of $35,000. “I strongly support that amount,” Murphy told the commission. “You make great contributions not only to our city, but to the Island. I want to thank you for that. Your leadership has been excellent,” Murphy told Culhane. “The Center does so much for the city,” Commissioner Deanie Sebring said when expressing her apprecia-

tion for The Center allowing the Anna Maria Island Garden Club and other groups to host their events at The Center at no charge. Commissioner Robert Kingan touted the success of The Center’s fundraising concert series. “They were great events, and I think they also brought the Island together in a lot of ways. This is a time where we may be entering a more difficult period of time with the economy and it is important for us to support you to the extent we can,” Kingan said. Commission Chair Carol Carter praised The Center’s environmental programs and partnerships. “I think that’s really important for our Island and our city,” she said. During public input, Sebring’s husband, Tripp, said, “Chris, you’ve done an excellent job. You deserve applause.” Commissioner Jon Crane said he’s thrilled The Center is partnering with Slicker’s Eatery and others on the “Concert for Peace” at The Center on Sunday, June 12. The concert is part of the local fundraising efforts that will allow the Anna Maria Island Rotary Club to assist war-impacted Ukrainians through a partnership with a Rotary Club in Poland.

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THE SUN

OUTDOORS

JUNE 1, 2022

Jack crevalle, pit bulls of the sea Reel Time RUSTY CHINNIS

F

or most local anglers, jack crevalle is not a target species. That’s pretty much true for fly and spin anglers as well as those that troll the beaches and passes. Most jack crevalle are caught inshore by anglers fishing for trout, redfish and snook. Small jack crevalle are considered trash fish by many because they are caught while targeting a different species and aren’t great fighters. All that changes when a jack over 5 pounds is hooked. The fight and tenacity of this fish usually provides a new appreciation of these “pit bulls” of the sea. During the summer months, it’s not uncommon to encounter large marauding groups of big jack crevalle along local beaches where they pursue schools of baitfish. While even “smallish” jacks can put up a feisty battle, larger members of the species are incredibly challenging. A big jack on the west coast will run about 15-20 pounds and can put up an awe-inspiring fight. It’s not uncommon for a 20-plus-pound jack crevalle to fight for 15-20 minutes. Over the years, I’ve come to appreciate these tenacious marauders, and while I don’t usually target them, I never turn down a cast at a big fish. When you encounter large schools of fish, the best choice of lures is a popper. There’s something about the disturbance on the surface that drives these fish wild. Catching them on a fly

RUSTY CHINNIS | SUN

Capt. Rick Grassett with a large jack crevalle he landed while tarpon fishing off Longboat Key. meant for tarpon is another challenge, but there’s a trick to enticing them. On numerous occasions, I have fished the edges of a school of feeding jacks only to have them inspect and turn down my flies. After a little experimenting, I found the “secret” was to toss the fly into the center of the school and to

strip as fast as possible. The fact that the fly is surrounded by jacks seems to kick in competition and the fly is usually taken after only a couple of strips. Once on the line, jack crevalle make long head-shaking runs before settling into a circling pattern where they use their wide bodies to put up

as much resistance as possible. The battle is usually won when the angler is able to get their heads out of the water, robbing them of much of their power. Even after an exhausting battle for the angler and the jack, they are easily revived and seem relatively unscathed by the experience. Years ago, I encountered big jacks schooled under the Longboat Pass Bridge. They would attack a plug, popper or other noisy lure with a ferocity that was amazing, but were almost impossible to land before they cut you off on the bridge pilings. After many failed attempts, we came on the idea of tossing a hook-less "teaser” under the bridge to pull them away from the pilings and fenders. There we could present poppers and have a chance at landing them. Before long we were vying to see who would toss the teaser because it was such an incredible experience to see them explode on the plug. The same tactic can be used to lure a school of fish on the beach close to the boat for a cast. Jacks don’t have teeth, so a heavy leader isn’t necessary. Fortunately, they don’t seem to be particularly leader-shy. When one is hooked, it needs to be fought just like a tarpon or other big predator, with maximum pressure from the time of the take until they are ready to land. When they travel the beach, they are usually in large schools, while inshore they are more likely to roam in pairs or small schools. If you think jacks aren’t worth the effort, cast a popper to a school of big fish sometime and try to keep it away from them. I guarantee you’ll have a new appreciation for this species.

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JUNE 1, 2022

THE SUN

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Tarpon jumping this spring CAPT. DAVE WHITE

It feels as though summertime is just around the corner. The temperatures in the mornings are still nice and the afternoon highs aren’t what they’re going to be in a month, so we here at Anna Maria Charters are enjoying the spring influx of fish. Tarpon are starting to show up on beaches rather nicely. I assume we’ll see more fish coming up from Boca Grande in the near future. We are using crabs and threadfin herring during our tarpon trips with great success. Once landing a fish, it’s important to take care to keep the fish in the water. A 100-pound tarpon can be 15 or 16 years old. With life spans exceeding 50 years, we try to show these animals as much respect as possible. Inshore, the mangrove snapper are showing up well, making it easy to get a nice dinner for our clients. Also inshore, we’re getting Spanish mackerel, snook, redfish, trout, jack crevalle and all of the sharks you care to fight. Offshore, the yellowtail snapper are going crazy, as well as amberjack, red grouper, mangrove snapper and the occasional blackfin tuna. American red snapper season opens for federally permitted charter boats on June 1. That will occupy most of our June and July. We look forward to next month and hope for clear, calm weather. Good luck and tight lines!

CAPT. RICK GRASSETT

Tarpon should be plentiful in the coastal Gulf of Mexico this month as big schools of fish migrate along our beaches. Also look for cobia, tripletail and false albacore (little tunny) in the coastal Gulf. Catch and release snook fishing should also be good in and around passes and in the surf. Fishing should also be good on deep grass flats for a variety of species.

CAPTAIN DAVE WHITE | SUBMITTED

Ryan Smith, of North Arlington, New Jersey, prepares to release a tarpon between 60-80 pounds with Capt. David White of Anna Maria Charters. Tarpon schools will increase in size and numbers and will head offshore to spawn close to new and full moons. Set up in travel lanes along the beach at first light in the morning and cast live crabs, baitfish, DOA Baitbusters and Swimming Mullet to them. I travel well offshore along the beach in the morning to avoid disturbing schools of tarpon that may be traveling close to the beach. Once you’ve reached the area you intend to fish, ease into the beach with an electric trolling motor and set up in your spot. You can anchor or drift, depending on conditions. Give other anglers several hundred yards of space. Since fish may be moving both north and south, setting up too close to another angler may negatively affect their fishing. Tarpon fishing is very dependent on conditions and there are a lot of variables that need to come together to be successful. Use tackle heavy enough to land them as quickly as possible. When fly fishing, I use 12-weight rods and large arbor reels capable of holding 300 yards or more of backing. I use a variety of baitfish,

shrimp or crab fly patterns fished on floating fly lines. The shallower the water, the easier it is to get your fly in front of a fish when fly fishing. Stake out or anchor in travel lanes to get shots at them. When spin fishing, I usually drift a couple of live baits under a float while we wait for tarpon schools to pass by. Blind casting with DOA Baitbusters or Swimming Mullet, if you’re in the right spot, can also be productive when fish are moving past you but not showing well on the surface. The CAL 4” Shad Tail/Swimbait with a heavy weedless hook is also a good tarpon bait, especially when sight fishing. Snook and reds remain closed to harvest south of State Road 64 in Manatee County on the west coast of Florida, south to the south bank of Gordon Pass in Collier County. Snook and reds are catch and release only in that zone until Sept. 1. Spotted seatrout has reopened in that zone with a three-fish-per-person bag limit and a six-fish boat limit. Trout must be from 15”-19” with one allowed per vessel over 19”. Full regulations and details can be viewed at myfwc.com. SEE CAPTAINS, PAGE 20

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CAPTAIN RICK GRASSETT | SUBMITTED

Dave Reinhart, of Massachusetts, with a tarpon caught and released while fishing the coastal Gulf of Mexico with Captain Rick Grassett in a previous June.

CAPTAINS: Tarpon jumping FROM PAGE 19

You should find snook in the surf, in passes and around docks and bridges in the ICW near passes. You can walk the beach and sight fish them in the surf with fly or spinning tackle. Small baitfish fly patterns, CAL jigs with shad tails and jerk worms or DOA shrimp should all work well. The same lures and flies that work in the surf will also work well at night. Snook will congregate in passes around the new and full moons to spawn. They will usually be in deep channels in these areas. Bouncing a DOA TerrorEyz or Baitbuster in bridge channels or passes can be an effective technique in these areas. Fishing for reds should also be good in June. Look for them over shallow grass along mangrove shorelines or around oyster bars when the tide is high. You’ll find them in potholes or edges of flats when the tide is low. Top water plugs will work well, especially early in the day. I like to cover water with CAL jigs and shad tails or jerk worms to find them. Fly anglers should score with baitfish fly patterns like my Grassett Flats Minnow. You may find Spanish mackerel, bluefish or pompano in passes or on deep grass flats this month. I like to drift deep grass flats and cast ahead of my drift with CAL jigs and shad tails or jerk worms or DOA Deadly Combos. Fly anglers should score by drifting and casting ahead of the drift with Ultra Hair Clouser flies tied on long

shank hooks on an intermediate sink tip fly line. You’ll need to add a few inches of heavy (40- or 50-pound) fluorocarbon when toothy fish are in the mix. In addition to tarpon, look for Spanish mackerel, false albacore, cobia and tripletail in the coastal Gulf this month. Although none of them may be thick, I’ve encountered all of them before in June. Keep your eyes open for bird activity or “breaking” fish to find albies and mackerel. Cobia and tripletail may be found around crab trap floats; however, I’ve seen cobia swimming with tarpon schools before. Medium spinning tackle and a DOA Shrimp or CAL jig will get the job done for all of them, although your tarpon tackle would also work well for a big cobia. An 8- or 9-weight fly rod with a floating or clear sink tip fly line is adequate to catch everything except a big cobia, in which case your 12-weight tarpon fly tackle will work well. There are lots of options in inshore waters and the coastal Gulf this month. If pulling on a 100-pound tarpon isn’t for you, fishing pressure is usually light inshore this month, so snook, reds, trout and more should also be good options. 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!

JUNE 1, 2022

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JUNE 1, 2022

THE SUN

21

AMI CHAMBER SEEKS VOLUNTEERS

The Anna Maria Island Chamber of Commerce is seeking volunteers. In addition to its mission of promoting member businesses and the local economy, the Chamber is also a Certified Visitor Information Center for the state of Florida and particularly Anna Maria Island. Volunteers will greet visitors and members who come into the office to request information or speak with the staff, typically working a four-hour weekday shift one or more days a week. For more information, call Becky at 941-778-1541 or email becky@amichamber.org.

VOLUNTEERS NEEDED

Tingley Library, 111 Second St. N. in Bradenton Beach, is looking for volunteers to help out in a fun and friendly atmosphere. Both morning and afternoon shifts are available. For more information, call Library Clerk Eveann Adams at 941-779-1208 Monday through Friday between 10 a.m. and 3 p.m.

TURTLE TIPS

During sea turtle season, May 1 – Oct. 31, follow these tips to help turtles: • Turn off lights visible from the beach and close blinds from sundown to sunrise; lights confuse nesting sea turtles and may cause them to go back to sea and drop their eggs in the water, where they won’t hatch. Light can also attract hatchlings away from the water. • Don’t use flashlights, lanterns or camera flashes on the beach at night. • Remove all beach chairs and other objects from the sand from sundown to sunrise; they can deter sea turtles from nesting and disorient hatchlings. • Fill in the holes you dig in the sand before leaving the beach; they can trap nesting and hatching sea turtles, which cannot live long out of the water. • Never touch a sea turtle; it’s the law. If you see people disturbing turtles, call the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission’s Wildlife Alert hotline at 888-404-FWCC (3922).

Meet Chef Will from the Beach House

Eat, drink and be merry

with Chef Will

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BeachHouseDining.com

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REAL ESTATE

JUNE 1, 2022

Can’t be, not again – it’s hurricane season A s we get older, the years tick by more quickly - or so it seems and here we are again looking down the barrel of the 2022 North Atlantic hurricane season cannon. As usual, Colorado State University has released their predictions for the 2022 hurricane season. Also as usual, the season is predicted to be above average. The average number of named storms in the North Atlantic stands at 14, seven of them hurricanes and three of them major hurricanes. The prediction for 2022 is 19 named storms, nine of them hurricanes and four major hurricanes, because of warmer waters and a lack of El Nino conditions, according to CSU. This is slightly above last year’s predictions of 17 named storms, eight hurricanes and four major hurricanes. The fun part of the beginning of hurricane season, if you can justify anything fun about hurricanes, is the names we can expect to hear any day now. This

Castles in the Sand

LOUISE BOLGER year starts with Alex and ends with Walter. Along the way we have Danielle, Lisa and Richard, among others, but my favorite of this season is Hermine, number eight in the list. Hopefully, we won’t run out of names this year. The not-so-fun part of getting ready for hurricane season is preparing your home and your family in the event that Hermine comes knocking. The obvious items to add to your hurricane preparedness list are non-perishable foods, usually in cans (don’t forget the manual can opener), bottled water (buy it now; it’s the first thing to fly off the shelves when a storm is coming), batteries, cash,

full tank of gas, prescriptions, candles or battery-operated lights, and if you still have a land line telephone, it’s not a bad idea to hang on to it or at the very least keep your cell phones and iPads fully charged if you’re facing a storm. Remove any outdoor flying objects, furniture, toys, plants and awnings that can turn into missiles aimed at your windows. Secure your boats or move them to dry land if possible. Put together a briefcase with important papers if you need to evacuate like insurance policies, school records, home mortgage information, recent tax returns, bank records, investment records, even important photos or diplomas just in case. If you live in a potential evacuation area, like I do, make a list of local hotels off the water or set up a safe house with a friend or relative to go to. You always have the official Manatee County shelter evacuation locations; know where yours is.

The mymanatee.org website has a great deal of information concerning everything I just outlined, but in much more detail. It’s worth taking the time to read it and to implement some of their recommendations. Hopefully by now you have upgraded your home to conform to hurricane guidelines, securing all windows, doors and roofs. A quick note about another disaster. The 2021 Champlain Towers South collapse has been settled to resolve the wrongful death claims brought by family members of the 98 victims. The settlement was for $997 million; this was on top of the settlement earlier this year for the property damage claims of about $83 million. Let’s hope the families of these poor people can find some peace. Let’s also hope that we can get through this hurricane season peacefully as well, and that Hermine or Gaston or Paula behave themselves. Be safe.

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JUNE 1, 2022

OBITUARIES John M. Stevely John McCullum Stevely, 72, of Bradenton, Florida passed away on May 27 during a walk at Robinson Preserve. He and his beloved wife of 40 years, Dr. Theresa Bert, both marine biologists, had just returned from Cape Canaveral where they witnessed a rocket launch and landing with their son, John Bert Stevely. A fitting last act for a scientist who treasured the seas and skies. Born April 10, 1950 to John Petrie Stevely and Dorothy McCollum Stevely in New York City, John grew up in New York City, where he graduated from Bronx High School of Science. He earned a bachelor of science degree in biology from Gettysburg College in Pennsylvania and a master's degree in marine science from the University of South Florida. He would go on to be selected as a Smithsonian Research Fellow and a member of USF’s Outstanding Alumni. During his long career as a Marine Extension Agent, John served as a University of Florida Sea Grant scientist and coauthored 15 scientific research publications. Following retirement, he became an Agent Emeritus. Among the nearly 20 awards and commendations he received, he was a Gulf Coast Guardian Award recipient, and in 2015, he was inducted into the Manatee County Agricultural Hall of Fame. John is best known for his passionate efforts to preserve and protect the local natural environment and fishing industry. He was a founder of the Cortez

Commercial Fishing Festival and served on the planning committee since its inception in 1981. He also assisted in the development of the Florida Institute for Saltwater Heritage (F.I.S.H.), the establishment of the F.I.S.H. environmental preserve in Cortez, and in other efforts to restore coastal habitats. He was an international expert in sponge ecology and sponge fishery management. His accomplishments also include the introduction of the fish venting tool, the development of best management practices for catch and release of deep-water reef fish, and the study of the economic impact of artificial reefs and red tides. Accolades aside, John would argue his proudest accomplishment was his family. He was a handson father who relished taking his wife and son to acclaimed dive spots all over the world. He was a friend to all and his patient and kind demeanor will be missed by everyone who knew him. He would like to thank all his cherished family and friends for being a part of his earthly life. John is survived by his wife Dr. Theresa Bert and son John B. Stevely; a sister, Dorothy Soulé; and her sons, Kenny & David Soulé. Visitation will be Friday, June 3 from 5-8 p.m. at Brown & Sons Funeral Home, 604 43rd St. W., Bradenton. The funeral service is Saturday, June 4 at 11 a.m. at Brown & Sons followed by a graveside service at Skyway Memorial Gardens. A luncheon and gathering for the funeral attendees and other invited guests will be held at 2:15 p.m. at the Swordfish Grill in Cortez. In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be made to F.I.S.H., P.O. Box 606, Cortez, FL 34215. And if you would, take some time to enjoy and protect the great outdoors.

THE SUN

BEACH BEAT HOLMES BEACH

5/18, 7:13 p.m., battery, 82nd St. Officers responded to a domestic disturbance call. When they arrived at the vacation rental, a female subject said while having a few drinks with her boyfriend, they got into a verbal argument and the boyfriend threw his phone on the floor and broke it. She told him he needed to stop drinking and go to bed, prompting him to get up and grab her by the hair and shake her. The female subject had a fresh cut on her thumb which she said she got from picking up glass from the broken phone. The male subject told police the argument was only verbal. The female said she did not wish to press charges, but arrest paperwork was completed and the male subject was taken into custody. 5/20, 5:47 p.m., assist EMS, 703 Key Royale Drive. The officer was dispatched in reference to a welfare check for a man possibly asleep in bushes next to a car.

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The officer arrived and shook the man awake, asking questions about whether he was on drugs or had been drinking. The man smelled of gasoline, but said he had transported some gas cans in his vehicle earlier and some must have spilled. The officer reported that the man had track marks on his arms, but was told by the subject that he was not on heroin, rather Suboxone, which he had been prescribed, but instead of taking orally, he was shooting it into his veins. The subject was not arrested, but was transported by EMS to HCA Florida Blake Hospital for treatment, which police were later informed he refused. 5/23, 1:16 p.m., criminal mischief, 301 61st St. The complainant told police he had parked his Jet Skis inside his property line along the side of his house. When he attempted to use one of the Jet Skis, he noticed the oil lines on both had been cut by an unknown person. The man said he did not witness the crime and had video cameras mounted on the house, but they did not capture the crime. A search of the area did not reveal any evidence and no further action was taken.

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THE SUN

Chamber members have Top Gun fun Anna Maria Island Chamber of Commerce members prepared for the debut of the new movie, Top Gun: Maverick, at a business card exchange on May 26 with military-themed games and décor provided by Hancock Whitney Financial Center, 5324 Gulf Drive in Holmes Beach.

CINDY LANE | SUN

Above, from left, Cecily Weinstein, teller, Pat Shahinian, financial center leader and Penny Johnson, client solution specialist, dressed in honor of Maverick. Right, from left, Ashley Chiles and Danielle Sato brought snacks from Grub Tropical BBQ.

JUNE 1, 2022

www.amisun.com

JUNE 1, 2022

THE SUN

25

MEMORIAL DAY: For those who served and sacrificed FROM PAGE 1

Perico Bay Club—As Good As It Gets!!

Business As Usual…..Just A Li le Differently. If you’re looking to buy or sell in Perico Bay Club, or know someone who is, please give me a call!

Give me a call today if you yo ou u’re ’ree lookin looking ngg to Buyy or Sell on Anna Maria Maria Island Mari Islaand or the surrounding ounding ngg aarea! rea eaaa!!

Lynn Zemmer 941 4141 1-730 3030 0-1294 9 94

941.209.1542 I Lynn@Edgewaterami.com 941.730.1294 | Lynn@Edgewaterami.com www.EdgewaterRealEstateInc.com www.EdgewaterRealEstateInc.com 106 Bridge Street, Bradenton Beach, FL 34217

“They truly are the heart and soul of the city,” Murphy said. The mayor, an Army veteran himself, then recognized and called forward the military spouses and significant others in attendance, who were presented with yellow roses provided by Blooms by the Beach. Attending military veterans were then called forward according to the branch in which they served, as the Anna Maria Island Concert Orchestra performed the musical theme for that branch. The 30-plus piece orchestra conducted by Navy veteran Leonard Murphy (no relation to the mayor) began a performance of patriotic music beginning with the “National Anthem” and a medley of military songs that coincided with a flyover by a C-130 aircraft and a MH 60 helicopter from the U.S. Coast Guard Aviation Station Clearwater. The orchestra performance included a pair of Sousa marches, “Amazing Grace,” “The Battle Hymn of the Republic” and ended with “Stars and Stripes Forever” and “God Bless America.” As the orchestra performed, the mayor shared his thoughts on the event.

JOE HENDRICKS | SUN

A Marine Corps color guard marched in and presented the colors. “This has been a bigger turnout than we’ve had for any other event and I’m exceptionally pleased. The staff did a remarkable job and I can’t thank them enough for what they’ve done for the city. An event like this is important because it helps bring the people of the Island together to celebrate who we are and what we are as a community. We have so many distractions on this Island that sometimes keep us from being neighborly. Events like this bring people together and let them know who their neighbors are; and patriotism is a common denominator,” Murphy said.

Committed to protecting your privacy & interests. TRUST US TO HANDLE YOUR TRANSACTIONS WITH UTMOST DISCRETION

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Nowhere but here. 6000 Marina Drive 113, Holmes Beach, FL 34217 | MICHAELSAUNDERS.COM | Licensed Real Estate Broker

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THE SUN

JUNE 1, 2022

VACATION

365 You’re closer to home than you think. Check out Lakewood Ranch online or in person, and you’ll see why it’s the best-selling community in the country for all ages. You won’t want to leave!

SHOPPING, DINING, ARTS & ENTERTAINMENT | PARKS & TR AILS | 20+ VILL AGES TO CHOOSE FROM SOCIA L AND SPORTS CLUBS | GOLF & R ACQUET SPORTS | THRIVING BUSINESS COMMUNIT Y TOP-R ATED SCHOOLS | NAMED BEST COMMUNIT Y LIFEST YLE PROGR AM *

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20220510_LWR_VACA_365_WAVE_AD_AMI_10X13_mf3.indd 1

.com 5/18/22 8:59 AM

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JUNE 1, 2022

THE SUN

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RENTALS: Owner taken to court FROM PAGE 1

“It was very well-handled by Sandy,” Vose told the commission. “She prosecuted the case and was successful. There were five separate noise violations in a period of nine months, and the noise violations were just horrendous. We had the body camera videos that were shown to the special magistrate and the people who lived on either side of this residence testified as to how it affected their lives. The noise violations were typically at 2 o’clock in the morning and the body camera audio shows how loud it was. “The special magistrate made a ruling in accordance with our code provision that the property was a public nuisance,” she continued. “Special magistrates in Florida don’t have jurisdiction to do anything but declare them a public nuisance. They don’t have the right to give injunctive relief. Our code does allow us to file suit

in circuit court to ask the court to declare the public nuisance and give us injunctive relief to stop it going forward,” Vose said. Mayor Dan Murphy detailed the injunctive relief sought. “The injunctive relief that I recommend we go after in this particular case is a suspension of the owner’s right to use that property as a vacation rental for one year. I feel very strongly that a one-year suspension should get the message across that this type of behavior in our city is not allowed. This is a residential community and this man has totally disrupted the lives of the people on either side with complete disregard. He lives out of town. This is simply an investment property. I’m not trying to take away his livelihood, but this can’t go on. I think we need to take a strong stand against this noise complaint and against this property. And if there’s others out there, we need to go after them as

well,” Murphy said. “This is the worst actor in the city. Five complaints in nine months. This is what was going on at three o’clock in the morning at this house,” Murphy said before showing the commission one of the body camera videos shown to the special magistrate. “I think our sheriff’s deputies did a great job. It’s not a job I would want. I applaud our deputies for how they handled these noise violations,” Murphy said. Commissioner Robert Kingan asked Vose about the likelihood of the city winning this case in court. “You can never make a guarantee about litigation. We’re going to give it our best,” Vose replied. Vose said she was aware of a case in Bradenton in which a nightclub was declared a public nuisance for repeat noise violations, but she’s not aware of any cases similar to Anna Maria’s planned lawsuit seeking injunc-

JOE HENDRICKS | SUN

City Attorney Becky Vose and Code Enforcement Manager Sandy Olson play key roles in the enforcement of the city’s noise ordinance. tive relief from a problematic vacation rental home. “Hopefully, we’ll be successful and we’ll get some relief for the people in the neighborhood,” Vose said. “Even if we don’t get exactly what we want, which would be a one-year suspension, we might get less than that, but I think we’d still win and make a point,” Commission Chair Carol Carter said. “It needs to be shown that the city is serious about this,” Vose added.

BIRD: Nest discovered in trees FROM PAGE 1

an active bird nest in one of the Australian pines will spur state representatives to halt the destruction of the trees and accompanying picnic area. While Australian pines are considered an invasive species by the state of Florida, great blue herons are a protected nesting bird species, meaning that while an active nest is located in one of the pines, that tree cannot be disturbed. However, once fledgling herons leave the nest, the tree can be taken down under current regulations. With more and more trees that provide nesting areas for birds being destroyed, some area residents are hoping that the nest will be enough to save the

trees from the woodchipper. Holmes Beach Mayor Judy Titsworth sent an email to county commissioners asking them again to reconsider the plans for Kingfish and to involve city leaders in any future design plans. Though Kingfish is located in the city of Holmes Beach, it is a countyowned and maintained facility. During a May 24 city commission meeting, Titsworth said that several of the trees are planned for demolition to make room for a trolley stop to accompany a 100-foot pier that may eventually be a stop for a water taxi, though county leaders have not applied with the city for a change of use for the property. She said that she’d sent photos of the nesting

herons to state representatives with the hope that they will step in to halt the destruction of the trees. Florida Fish and Wildlife Commission representatives have documented several great blue heron nests in the trees at Kingfish, many with fledglings, she added. “I think we can be better than that,” she said of the planned tree removal. Titsworth said the county’s renovation plans will have to go through the city’s planning commission approval process before permits can be issued. She added that if permits are approved, a note will be added that any change of use on the property, such as the addition of a water

SUBMITTED | JEAN BYSTROM

Two great blue herons are believed to have at least one fledgling in an active nest perched in the branches of an Australian pine at Kingfish Boat Ramp. taxi stop, will require Holmes Beach Commission approval. Resident Joe Arena said in an email to The Sun that he and his family are saddened by the planned destruction of the picnic area. He said that he and his wife have spent a lot of time relaxing at the picnic tables, enjoying the shade and bird watching. Area resident Teal O’Fee said

“People have to know that we’re prosecuting these guys and that anyone else who does the same will be prosecuted,” Commissioner Jon Crane said. Murphy said he has complete confidence that Vose, Olson and the sheriff’s deputies will continue to do a good job in enforcing the city’s noise ordinance. “You can’t get them all, but we can’t let this turn into Key West,” Murphy said. she hopes that county commissioners will listen to the concerns of their constituents over the destruction of the trees and nesting area and change course. She said she’s hoping more people will lend their voices to the cause and that a solution can be found to preserve the area. As of press time for The Sun, no specific opportunities for public comment on the Kingfish renovations was scheduled with Manatee County commissioners, however, all commission meetings are open to the public and offer a public comment opportunity on any topic of concern. The next county commission meeting is scheduled for Tuesday, June 7 at 8:30 a.m. at the Manatee County Government Administration Building, 1112 Manatee Ave. W. in Bradenton.

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THE SUN

SPORTS

JUNE 1, 2022

Moss, Gitt season champions BY MONICA SIMPSON SPECIAL TO THE SUN

ANNA MARIA – The final whistle blew Thursday night, marking the end of another action-packed soccer season at The Center. Youth champions, The Gitt Team and Moss Builders, were named earlier in the week. Team Moss Builders also eked out a 7-6 win to earn the Paul “Ace” Hayward Cup over the Salty Printing squad in a high-stakes shootout. The Gitt Team’s teamwork, with standout play by striker Callin Westfall, with a hat trick, and critical stops by the league’s Goalie of the Year, Kason Davis, pushed them toward a 3-2 victory in the big game. Their opponent, Flip Flop Candy Shop, worked the field without Preston LaPensee, one of the league’s MVPs for the season. Luca Rosenkrans scored the only goal for his team. An own goal by The Gitt Team put a point on the scoreboard for the Flip Flop team. Keilee Mulcahy, goalie for team Flip Flop Candy Shop, helped to hold the score to a one-point game with six important saves. Despite the work of the entire Flip Flop team all season, the win was just not in the cards. The Gitt Team finished the season not only with the championship and goalie accolades, but the team’s Tess Bolognone was awarded the league’s other MVP honors. Solid Rock Construction’s Luke Willing was named the league’s Most Improved Player for the season. Defensive honors went to Aidan Guess for Tidy MD. Camden Rudacille took home the Sportsmanship award for the 8- to 10-year-old league. In the 11- to 14-year-old league, Moss Builders’ Addie Guess was Rudacille’s counterpart, winning the Sportsmanship award. Guess and her teammates fought hard against team Shady Lady in the final game of the season. With everything on the line, Jack Mattick worked the field and Shady Lady defense, scoring all four goals for the Moss Builders team. In goal for Moss, Charlie Serra

MONICA SIMPSON | SUN

Clockwise above, The Gitt team won the final game of the season against Flip Flop Candy Shop, making them champions of the 8- to 10-year-old recreational soccer league at The Center. The Center’s 11- to 14-year-old league champions, Moss Builders, after their big win in the season-ending game. The Paul “Ace” Hayward Cup winners, Moss Builders, “smiledeep” in “Ace’s Corner” at the Island’s community center. made five important stops, as Maddox Culhane and Jayden Sparks made him work the duration of the game. Culhane and Sparks each had solo goals in the game. Protecting his team’s goal, Jack Zaccagnino also had five saves, helping to keep the championship within reach. Jack’s brother, Jesse, was voted Goalie of the Year for the league. Despite the team effort by Shady Lady, without key player Victor Albrecht, the Moss Builders squad’s earned the championship to close out the youth soccer season. The league finished with top honors to two HSH and two Miz & Hiz Biz players. HSH’s Ava Gitt was named the Most Improved Player and Konnor Oelfke, playing for Miz & Hiz Biz, won the Defensive MVP award. League Offensive MVP distinctions were earned by Miz & Hiz Biz’s Cecelia Kroth and HSH’s Frankie Coleman. Thursday’s night action for the adult co-ed soccer league included both semifinal action and the big game. After eliminating Sato Real Estate and Gulfview Windows & Doors, respectively, teams Moss Builders and Salty Printing went to work on the pitch. Starting the season winless until the last weeks, Salty Printing came

into the playoffs with nothing to lose and everything to prove. Team Moss Builders, having won the championship before, played to win. Both sides of midfield fought hard for two full halves of regulation play, finishing with no points on the scoreboard. With five additional minutes on the clock, overtime play commenced and ended once again with a scoreless game. The stalemate took the game to a shootout, with the spectators cheering and excitement in the air. Finishing field play with 11 saves in the game, Salty Printing’s Tuna McCracken took the line for the first penalty kick by Olaf Krause. Krause’s strike drifted to the left of the post. Ryan Moss was on the line for Moss Builders, saving 12 shots during timed play. Salty Printing’s Kevin Roman made the first shot, followed by another by Luca Vecchio after Hakan Toka missed for his team. Greg Moss finally eluded McCracken, scoring Moss Builders’ first goal in the game. Alternating back and forth, Tyler Brewer and Chris Culhane made the next goals for Salty Printing, while Eduardo Filipe and R. Moss scored for Moss Builders. With everything tied up again

and two consecutive missed shots for both teams, the line ups came back around with Roman and G. Moss each making a shot. Vecchio and Filipe hit their next shots, making the last shot by each team critical. After a full round of penalty shots and the score six all, Moss Builders’ Gerardo Urbiola’s shot went past McCracken after going off his fingertips. Brewer placed the soccer ball on the line for Salty Printing, with the pressure of knowing that his shot would either tie or lose the game for his team. The adrenaline of the moment sent the ball sailing over the fence, ending the championship game with a score 7-6.

SUN SCOREBOARD MONDAY, MAY 23 8- TO 10-YEAR-OLD LEAGUE SEMIFINAL PLAYOFF GAMES

11- TO 14-YEAR-OLD LEAGUE SEMIFINAL PLAYOFF GAMES

Moss Builders Win by Forfeit HSH Loss Shady Lady Miz & Hiz Biz

WEDNESDAY, MAY 25 8- TO 10-YEAR-OLD LEAGUE CHAMPIONSHIP GAME The Gitt Team Flip Flop Candy Shop

11- TO 14-YEAR-OLD LEAGUE CHAMPIONSHIP GAME Moss Builders Shady Lady

5 4

3 2

4 2

THURSDAY, MAY 26 ADULT CO-ED SOCCER SEMIFINAL PLAYOFF GAMES Sato Real Estate Moss Builders

2 3

Beach Bums Flip Flop Candy Shop

3 5

Salty Printing 4 Gulfview Windows & Doors 2

Tidy MD The Gitt Team

0 1

ADULT CO-ED SOCCER CHAMPIONSHIP GAME

Moss Builders 7 (Shootout Win) Salty Printing 6

JUNE 1, 2022

FUN IN THE SUN

Across 1 Over the moon 13 Figurehead?: Abbr. 16 Japanese art piece that symbolizes good fortune and longevity 17 Inlet, to the sea 18 Much-photographed event 19 Fairy-tale disruption 20 Son of Akhenaten 21 "To recap ... " 22 Law school course 24 Tangents 26 Throbs 28 Drawing game 29 Sound of alarm 31 Connection point 32 Aid in fixing rough borders 35 Dickered 38 Program resource 40 Last part 44 Offer not seen by competitors Answers to 05-25-22 Crossword Puzzle.

49 DOL watchdog 50 "My stars!" 52 Hill assistant 53 "Who, me?" 56 Papyrus plants, e.g. 58 Vet 59 Island in a popular board game 62 Dance step 63 Crew implement 64 Iran, for one 67 It may be plucked on a beach 68 Vader underling 69 Talking stuffed bear in a 2012 film 70 Permanent marker? Down 1 Provocative opinion 2 Galvanized 3 Placing in direct competition 4 __ Tour 5 Amy Klobuchar, for

one 6 Chorus of approval 7 Unleashes 8 Women's Rights Project org. 9 Pinches together 10 2.5 miles, at Indy 11 Elgort of "The Fault in Our Stars" 12 Some contests 13 Building partly burned by Britain in 1814 14 Antedate 15 Brought together 23 Get hooked? 25 John in court, maybe 27 Maintained 29 __ Age: post-Civil War period 30 Gig gear 33 It accounts for about 7% of all printed English words 34 "The Villain in Black" rapper MC __ 36 "The Phantom Menace" boy 37 Cause to race 39 Wall St. asset 40 Gracefully exits 41 Bread named for how it's baked 42 Blackened 43 "Sexual Politics" author Millett 45 Witness to a delivery, often 46 2000s Red Sox hero,

familiarly 47 Conceives 48 Madeleine or Napoleon 51 Soap Box Derby entrant

THE SUN

54 Dmitri Mendeleev, religiously 55 Photo-sharing app, for short 56 Triangular pelvic bones

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57 Former CNN journalist David 60 Snowball pile, say 61 Jazz great Puente 65 Parking __ 66 Little one

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THE SUN

CLASSIFIED

ANNOUNCEMENTS BEACH YOGA ON Wednesdays, Saturdays & Sundays at 8:30am at the end of Pine Ave by the Sandbar Restaurant by donation. Classes on Tuesdays & Fridays at 8:30 at 100 Broadway St. on LBK. www.thriveyogafit.com THE BEST VOLUNTEER position on the island. The AMI Historical Museum needs docents and bread makers. Call Kathy Primeau at 989-560-6381. ROSER FOOD BANK needs donations of cash and non-perishable food, PAPER & PERSONAL HYGIENE PRODUCTS. Donations boxes are located at the Church, Moose Club, and Walgreen’s. TINGLEY LIBRARY IN BRADENTON BEACH is looking for volunteers. Fun and friendly atmosphere. Morning and afternoon shifts. If interested, please contact library clerk Eveann Adams at 941-779-1208, between 10-3, Tues. -Fri. only.

COMMERCIAL SALES, RENT & LEASE HAVE YOU BEEN thinking of selling? We NEED properties to List for SALE!!! Duplexes, multi family, small resorts? Call BIG Alan Galletto of Island Real Estate to get it SOLD 941-232-2216

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

EMPLOYMENT CASHIERS – We have immediate openings for full-time and part-time cashiers. Experience a plus, but not required. Very attractive starting pay. No evening hours! Email your resume to hometruevaluehardware @gmail.com or apply in person at Home True Value Hardware, 5324 Marina Drive, Holmes Beach, FL 34217

AMISUN.COM

Call us today! 941-778-3986

The award-winning ANNA MARIA ISLAND SUN, a weekly newspaper on Florida’s Gulf Coast, is looking for a freelance reporter/photographer to cover events on this tourism-driven island. The ideal candidate will have reporting and photography experience at a community newspaper and have some experience writing for a news website. Local residents or those with previous local knowledge and willing to relocate here a plus. Resumes and cover letters may be mailed to The Anna Maria Island Sun, P.O Box 1189, Anna Maria, FL 34216, Attention: Mike Field, publisher. REAL ESTATE ASSISTANT WANTED: Looking for driven/dedicated assistant to join our growing team. This position is an amazing opportunity to learn the residential real estate industry from the ground up! Send resume to Serious inquiries only to Team@ GittSoldIt.com (no phone calls please) The Gitt Team KW on the Water ISLAND OCEAN STAR RESTAURANT located at the end of Anna Maria Island with water front seating. We are looking for Sushi Chefs, Kitchen Chefs, Kitchen helpers, hosts or hostesses, servers, bar tenders, etc. to join our team. For kitchen chef, starting pay is $15.25 per hour. Please call Chi at 941-685-7536 or 941-2516940 or email Chi at IslandStar902@gmail.com ISLAND RETAIL & RESERVATIONS - part time weekends. Text Amanda 941896-2222 Get More Vitamin Sea, Amanda Escobio Ryan ~ Owner & LMT #50034

ESTATE SALE ESTATE SALE FRIDAY JUNE 3. 9:30am-2pm. 2107 Ave B, Bradenton Beach 34217. Murphy Queen bed set, TV’s, Art work, double recliner, sofa, clock, queen bed, wicker dresser & night stand, lamps, table & chairs, TV stand, Island desk, refrigerator, window & portable Air conditioners, patio love seat, coffee table, chairs, outdoor cabinet, wind chimes, tools, kitchen ware, china, glass brick-a-brac. See pics at estatesales.net. Sale conducted by Palma Sola Sales (numbers given out at 8am). Park on one side of street.

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 TOPPER FOR F150 Long bed. $100 or Best Offer. Call 941-705-7560.

HOME IMPROVEMENTS TILE! TILE! TILE! All variations of tile supplied and installed. Quality workmanship. Prompt, reliable, many Island references. Free estimates. Neil 941-726-3077 RENOVATION SPECALIST ALL carpentry repairs, Wash Family Construction, locally owned and operated CBC 1258250 Call 941-7250073. KERN CONSTRUCTION NEW Homes & Remodel. Design/Build. Since 1968. License # CBC 1261150. Call Mike Kern 941-7781115 JSAN CORPORATION Renovations Construction & Handyman Services 941-243-0995 Lic# CRC1332505 jsancorporation@gmail. com Flooring, Drywall, Painting, Repairs, Kitchen and Bathrooms, Trim & Doors. Free Estimates. Credit Cards Accepted. API’S DRYWALL REPAIR 15+ years experience. Free estimates. No job too small. Love to help you. Call 941-524-8067. ISLE TILE specializing in Custom Bath/Shower & Backsplash installation. Pressure washing available. Call 941-302-8759 isletileservices.com

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.

JUNE 1, 2022

LANDSCAPING & LAWN CARE R. GAROFALO’S Interlocking brick pavers, driveways, patios, pool decks. Free estimates. Licensed & Insured. Call Rafael 941-778-4823 or Veronik 941-526-7941 ISLAND RESIDENT. TREE/ BUSH Trimming, removal. Sweeping, blowing, weeding. Weekly, bi-monthly or monthly schedule. Pressure washing. Call Bill Witaszek 941-307-9315. SHELL DRIVEWAYS & LANDSCAPE. Specializing in Old Florida Seashell driveways and scapes. Also Rock, Mulch, & Soil. Free estimates. Call Shark Mark 941-301-6067

LOST & FOUND LOST PRESCRIPTION SUNGLASSES in black case between Gulf Watch and Beach House Restaurant. Please call 847-563-8365.

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

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 ABRACADABRA PAINTING LLC fully insured. 30 years experience. Many Island references. Call 941-705-7096

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 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

PEAK-A-BOO VIEWS of the GULF. Income Producing upstairs Condo, weekly rental, Holmes Beach, new furniture, fresh paint, updated appliances, laundry room, large deck, 2 parking places. Just 10 steps to the beach access, 2BR/1.5BA. Sharon Hightower RE/MAX Alliance Group 941-3305054. $849,900.

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. ANNUAL RENTAL: Starting July 1st, Perico Bay Club. 2BR/2BA with lanai and one car garage. Fully furnished down to the linens and dishes, newly updated and all appliances included. Attached villa style, very secure community with guarded entry gate. $2900 per month, no pets. Association has $100 application fee. Tenant in place, showings by specific weekly appointments only. Photos below taken last week so they are current. Call Carol Bernard at 941345-1300. ANNUAL RENTAL ON NORTH END, 3 BR/2BA elevated home with views of Bay, garage, and large backyard. Unfurnished, ready July 1, 2022. Pets considered. $5,000/mo - 1st, last, and security required. Call Monica Reid, Sato Real Estate - 941-7787200.

www.amisun.com

JUNE 1, 2022

BUSINESS & SERVICE DIRECTORY HOME IMPROVEMENT

HOME IMPROVEMENT

THE SUN

31

Call today to place your ad: 941-778-3986 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 CONDO SUMMER SPECIAL Large pool, beach access, furnished, WIFI, 1BR 6 month lease. $1900/mo. All utilities included. redekercondosonami.com Tim 941-704-7525

LUXURIOUS ANNA MARIA ISLAND CONDO for rent. Upgraded granite/ stainless kitchen. Incredible water views through floor length windows. Waterfront patio. Luxury furnishing. 2BR/2BA. King beds. Pool, tennis, walk to beach. Private carport. Monthly rental May to November. Owner/renter. Flexible terms. 570-239-0431 email marketreps@aol.com

REAL ESTATED WANTED: BUY/RENT YOUNG LOCAL FAMILY of 4 seeking to buy (or even rent) a forever family home with a dock or boat slip big enough for a 32ft boat on AMI, LBK or close surrounding area. Also seeking land by water for an outdoor school. Call or text 941-961-5727

AMISUN.COM

TRANSPORTATION AMI TAXI credit cards, cash, Venmo accepted. Airport: Tampa $105, Sarasota $50, St. Pete/Clearwater $105, Orlando $220. Call 941-447-8372 or 941-4478376. amitaxi4u@gmail. com, www.amitaxi.com ANYTIME TRANSPORTATION to all Airports, Casino, etc. Tampa/St. Pete $80. Sarasota $40. Pets welcome. Very dependable. Reasonable rates. Contact Jeanne. 941-779-5095

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

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THE SUN

www.amisun.com

JUNE 1, 2022