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VOL 21 No. 21

March 3, 2021

Brennan and Augostini share Distinguished Citizen of the Year award The annual award recognizes those who give their time and talent to help make the city of Anna Maria a great community. BY JOE HENDRICKS SUN CORRESPONDENT | jhendricks@amisun.com

Beach renourishment begins again CINDY LANE | SUN

Acres of young sea oats were planted recently on dunes created in Bradenton Beach during last year’s $17.3 million beach renourishment project. See story on Page 27.

Lakewood Ranch vaccinations trigger criminal investigation The Manatee County Sheriff’s Office is investigating the criminal complaint.

ANNA MARIA – For their community service, Anna Maria residents Lynn Brennan and Carl Augostini have been honored as the city of Anna Maria’s Distinguished Citizens of the Year for 2020. Brennan and Augostini were selected by a three-member volunteer committee that consisted of Bob Carter, Doug Copeland and Marie McCallister. The 2020 nominees also included Joan Voyles, her late husband, Dr. Carl Voyles, and Rod & Reel Pier employee Jimmy Malfese. The nominees were nominated recently by their fellow community members. Patricia Walter nominated Brennan and Ernest Brodersen nominated Augostini. Commission chair Carol Carter nominated the Voyles and Tripp Sebring nominated Malfese. Brennan and Augostini received their awards during the Thursday, Feb. 25 city commission meeting. Before recognizing this year’s recipients, Bob Carter said the annual award signifies “the demonstration of love for our city and for others and demonstrating that by volunteer service and in many other ways to help make Anna Maria a better place to live.” Before presenting Augostini with his award, Carter, a former award recipient himself, read aloud the nomination submitted by Brodersen. “For 12 years now, Carl has worked with discarded old bikes. He has repaired and refurbished them. Once a year, at Christmas, he donates them to needy people in Manatee County. He spends at least 20 or SEE CITIZEN OF YEAR, PAGE 27

BY JOE HENDRICKS SUN CORRESPONDENT | jhendricks@amisun.com

MANATEE COUNTY – Manatee County Commissioner Vanessa Baugh’s role in the controversial Lakewood Ranch pop-up vaccination distribution site has prompted a sworn criminal complaint filed by Sarasotabased paralegal Michael Barfield. Barfield filed his complaint Monday evening with 12th Judicial Circuit State Attorney Ed Brodsky’s office and also with the Manatee County Sheriff’s Office (MCSO). The com-

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

4 6 18-19 20-21 22 2-26 28 30

JOE HENDRICKS | SUN

County Commissioner Vanessa Baugh has been named in a criminal complaint filed by Michael Barfield. Barfield alleges the recent vaccination selection process may have violated state law. plaint alleges Baugh’s vaccinationrelated efforts may have violated Florida law. The sheriff’s office is now investigating Barfield’s complaint. When contacted by email on Tuesday, MCSO Public Information Officer Randy

Warren said, “It’s an active investigation. Michael Barfield filed a complaint yesterday and our detectives are looking into it now.” In contrast to the randomized, SEE VACCINATION, PAGE 11

JOE HENDRICKS | SUN

Bob Carter presented the Distinguished Citizen of the Year award to Carl Augostini, a co-winner with Lynn Brennan.

CELEBRATE

COMMISSIONER Baugh named

Wildlife Inc. Day on March 3. 8

in vaccine-related ethics complaint. 23

Anna Maria Island, Florida

FLORIDA LEGISLATURE last

resort for Cortez net camp. 10 The Island’s award-winning weekly newspaper www.amisun.com

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FRESH AIR because

WE CARE Before we reopened The Waterfront for indoor seating, we installed the Fresh-Aire UV disinfection system to help protect our customers and staff. Our outdoor dining makes up two thirds of our restaurant seating. All seating is spaced 6 feet apart.

941.778.1515 | 111 SOUTH BAY BLVD | ANNA MARIA ISLAND, FL WWW.THEWATERFRONTRESTAURANT.NET

MARCH 3, 2021

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More vaccines find their way to Manatee County As Florida marks one year since COVID-19 appeared, more options are coming to Manatee County for local seniors to book vaccine appointments. BY KRISTIN SWAIN SUN STAFF WRITER | kswain@amisun.com

MANATEE COUNTY – More than 12,000 seniors received calls for their first COVID-19 vaccine appointment from the county for the week of March 1-5 and even more became available from local retail pharmacies. Manatee County began making appointments for the first week of March using 311 operators and ended the week with a new automated system. Calls from the automated system come from the number that 311 operators used, 941-742-4300 with texts from 88911. When called, those registered in the county’s vaccine standby pool receive their appointment date and time and are given an option to accept the appointment or refuse it and re-enter the standby pool. Changes to available appointment dates and times are not currently offered by Manatee County. If you miss a call from the automated system or 311 operators, you’re asked to respond to confirm your vaccine appointment within two

hours or your name will be re-entered into the standby pool. Anyone who registered for the vaccine standby pool using an email address may also receive an email that will allow them to confirm or reject their appointment time. Currently, all county appointments are being honored at Tom Bennett Park in Bradenton. A planned 12,750 first vaccinations are planned to be distributed the first week of March at Bennett Park. Additional vaccinations in Manatee County also will be available through local retail pharmacies including Publix, CVS and Winn-Dixie. While the CVS and Winn-Dixie locations in Manatee County are limited, Publix announced in a Feb. 25 press release that it would be offering vaccination appointments at all of its Florida store locations. All vaccine appointments in Florida are currently available to seniors age 65 and older who can provide proof of Florida residency. The appointments also are available to frontline healthcare workers. On Feb. 24, Gov. Ron DeSantis said he plans to open the eligibility for COVID-19 vaccines to law enforcement officers and teachers over age 50 within the next week or so, depending on the availability of vaccine doses. To enter the Manatee County vaccine standby pool, visit www.vax.mymanatee.org or call 311 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Monday through Friday.

FLORIDA DEPARTMENT OF HEALTH

Publix is releasing vaccine appointment times to the public at 7 a.m. Mondays, Wednesdays and Fridays. To book an appointment at Publix, visit www.publix.com/covid-vaccine/ florida. Winn-Dixie and CVS are releasing vaccine appointments as they become available. To view available appointments at CVS, visit www.cvs.com/immunizations/covid-19-vaccine. Anyone booking a vaccine through CVS can select the county in which to receive it but will only learn the location of the CVS store after the vaccine appointment has been booked. To schedule an appointment to receive a COVID-19 vaccine at a local Winn-Dixie location, visit www.winndixie.com/pharmacy/ covid-vaccine.

Commissioners leave mask ordinance open-ended Holmes Beach commissioners voted unanimously to approve an extension of the city’s mask ordinance during a Feb. 23 meeting. Instead of setting an expiration date, they left the mask ordinance open-ended. Commissioner Jim Kihm said the decision was so that commissioners could bring up the ordinance at any time for reconsideration if/ when the COVID-19 situation changes. With the ordinance passing a second vote and public hearing, it indefinitely extends the requirement to wear a mask in any business or public building in Holmes Beach, at any event held at the city field complex and when unable to social distance.

THE SUN

ISLAND NEWS

IN BRIEF

Donate art supplies to local elementary schools Manatee County elementary schools are low on art supplies and the members of the Artist’s Guild of Anna Maria Island are stepping in to help out, with a little help from the community. Due to COVID-19 concerns, each elementary school child is required to have a personal art kit. The supplies being collected include colored pencils, crayons, black markers, white card stock copy paper and scissors. If you can donate, please drop off your donations at the Artist’s Guild Gallery at 5414 Marina Drive in Holmes Beach.

New members join Holmes Beach committees HOLMES BEACH – Volunteers helped city commissioners fill up open slots on a few different city committees including the Parks and Beautification Committee, Planning Commission and Holmes Beach Police Department Pension Board. During a Feb. 23 meeting, commissioners reviewed applications and heard from some of the applicants before voting on their selections for open and expiring positions. New member Alec Graham was appointed in a unanimous vote to fill the unexpired term of Donna Ryan on the city’s parks and beautification committee. Graham’s term is set to expire Aug. 1, 2022. On the planning commission, second alternate Richard Brown was moved to first alternate and new member Drew Hyman was nominated in a four to one vote to serve as second alternate. Members Dan Hardy and Sean Murphy were reappointed to continue serving on the Holmes Beach Police Department Pension Board in a unanimous vote. If you’re interested in serving as a volunteer with the city of Holmes Beach, visit www.holmesbeachfl.org to view any open opportunities.

LBK to mitigate sewage spill The Town of Longboat Key has finalized negotiations with the Florida Department of Environmental Protection (DEP) to mutually resolve mitigation of the spill of 14.7 million gallons of sewage into Sarasota Bay during the last two weeks of June 2020. A leak in Longboat Key’s sole sewer pipe, which runs under Sarasota Bay to the mainland, caused the damage. Town officials agreed to restore mangrove wetlands near Long Bar Pointe, where sewage came ashore, and pay $187,382 in fines or perform an environmental enhancement or restoration project or purchase and donate environmentally sensitive land to the state to offset damage caused by the spill. The town also must submit a sewer overflow response plan to DEP for approval, purchase state mitigation credits and create an operations and maintenance manual for the sewage system, among other requirements.

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MARCH 3, 2021

Commission approves $204,000 separation agreement with Coryea

County staff member Karen Stewart will temporarily serve as the acting county administrator until a new acting administrator is hired. BY JOE HENDRICKS SUN CORRESPONDENT | jhendricks@amisun.com

BRADENTON – Cheri Coryea’s two-year tenure as county administrator ended Tuesday evening after the Manatee County Commission approved a $204,000 separation agreement earlier that day. Deputy County Administrator Karen Stewart will serve as acting county administrator until no later than March 23. By then, or before then, the commission expects to appoint someone else to serve as acting county administrator while the search for a permanent county administrator is conducted. During Tuesday’s meeting, county commissioners voted 6-1 to accept the separation agreement negotiated by Coryea’s attorney and County Attorney Bill Clague. Clague noted the separation agreement is not a termination and is not a resignation. The agreement also ended Coryea’s 30-year tenure as a county employee. The separation agreement calls for the county to pay Coryea a lump sum payment of approximately $204,000, minus taxes. Per the agreement, Coryea will receive 20 weeks of regular pay as established by her $192,000 annual salary. She will also receive 400 hours of paid leave (vacation time), 500 hours of sick leave pay, and 197 hours of compensatory time pay. Commissioner Carol Whitmore supported the separation agreement after she unsuccessfully proposed Coryea’s vacation pay be increased to 1,000 hours. Bellamy voted against the separation agreement as originally proposed. He said he could not support any motion that resulted in Coryea vacating her administrator’s position. Before the 6-1 vote occurred, the commission rejected by a 4-3 vote Bellamy’s motion to discontinue the separation discussion and give Coryea one year to prove that she can move the county forward in a manner that satisfied the current commission. Commissioners Vanessa Baugh,

JOE HENDRICKS | SUN

The mutually-agreed-upon separation agreement ended Cheri Coryea’s 30-year tenure as a Manatee County employee. Kevin Van Ostenbridge, George Kruse, and James Satcher opposed Bellamy’s motion. Bellamy and commissioners Misty Servia and Carol Whitmore supported Bellamy’s motion. Van Ostenbridge then made the motion to accept the separation agreement that now ends the commission majority’s previous efforts to terminate Coryea.

PREVIOUS TERMINATION EFFORTS

In November, Van Ostenbridge proposed terminating Coryea for carrying out the previous commission’s directive to purchase a 161-acre property referred to as the Lena Road property for slightly more than $30 million. Van Ostenbridge, Kruse and Satcher – who were not in office when the property was purchased last fall – believe the county overpaid for that property. Coryea was then put on notice that her termination would be discussed and voted on in December. Before that December discussion occurred, Kruse had a change of heart and asked the commission to rescind the termination notice and give Coryea a chance to prove herself to the newly-reconfigured commission. On Jan. 26, Kruse had another change of heart and he made a motion to again put Coryea on termination notice. Kruse said he was making that motion in part because Coryea, at Commissioner Carol Whitmore’s request, arranged a one-on-one meeting between him and Whitmore to discuss affordable housing. That meeting took place in a conference room on Jan.

22 and was also attended by Coryea and two other staff members, and was recorded. During the Jan. 26 commission meeting, Clague said the KruseWhitmore meeting was conducted in compliance with the Florida Government in the Sunshine Law. Although he willingly participated in the Jan. 22 meeting with Whitmore, Kruse expressed remorse for doing so in response to the public backlash that followed regarding how that meeting was publicly noticed and conducted. Before making his motion to again put Coryea on termination notice, Kruse also acknowledged his own extramarital affair and suggested Whitmore might “blackmail” him due to her knowledge of his affair and her receipt and temporary possession of a photograph of him and the other woman. Kruse felt Whitmore’s knowledge of his affair somehow contributed to the “toxic culture” of the county administration he felt existed under Coryea’s leadership. Whitmore and her attorney, Brett McIntosh, vehemently denied Kruse’s unproven accusation of blackmail. Baugh, Satcher, and Van Ostenbridge supported Kruse’s Jan. 26 motion to put Coryea on termination notice, which then resulted in a mutually-agreed-upon separation agreement instead.

HINES REJECTED

After approving the separation SEE CORYEA, PAGE 5

MARCH 3, 2021

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CORYEA: Separation agreement FROM PAGE 4

agreement, the commission engaged in another lengthy discussion regarding the appointment of an acting county administrator. The commission ultimately voted 4-3 in opposition to hiring Venice-based attorney and former Sarasota County Commissioner Charles Hines to serve as acting county administrator. Baugh, Kruse, Satcher and Van Ostenbridge expressed their respect for Hines but voted not to appoint him as acting county administrator. To varying degrees, the four commissioners expressed concerns about the contract terms Clague negotiated with Hines. The proposed contract offered the same $192,000 salary Coryea received, called for a minimum contract length of eight months and included a housing allowance that Clague said was necessary because state statute requires county administrators to live in the county they serve. Bellamy, Servia and Whitmore supported Hines serving as the acting county administrator. Before the commission voted on hiring Hines, school board member Dr. Scott Hopes made his own pitch for the acting county administrator’s position, which at one point he said he would do for free and without a contract. Van Ostenbridge and Satcher both

mentioned Lakewood Ranch Business Alliance President and CEO Dom DiMaio as another potential candidate. Satcher also mentioned Rick Mills as a possible candidate. Mills is the former superintendent of the School District of Manatee County. Van Ostenbridge said he prefers Hopes, but he also said, “Dom DiMaio’s beating down my door. I’ve talked to Dom a couple times as well. DiMaio’s not here, but he seems pretty interested the way he blows my phone up.” During public comment, Carol Felts expressed concerns about DiMaio’s connections with developer Carlos Beruff. She also opposed Hopes serving as acting county administrator. As the discussion continued, Clague stressed the need to have someone in that position that day because there are certain duties only the county administrator or acting county administrator can perform. Those duties include presenting the annual county budget and presenting for commission approval a candidate to replace Deputy County Administrator John Osborne. Osborne left his county position on Feb. 16 – one day before Coryea’s termination was originally scheduled to be discussed and voted on. At the request of Clague and Coryea’s attorney, that meeting was then delayed until Feb. 23 to allow for time for the attorneys to negotiate the separation agreement.

JOE HENDRICKS | SUN

Deputy County Administrator Karen Stewart will serve as acting county administrator until no later than March 23.

STEWART APPOINTED TEMPORARILY

After another short recess, the commission voted 6-1 in favor of appointing Stewart to serve as acting county administrator until no later than March 23. Whitmore cast the lone opposition vote to that motion. Whitmore and Servia expressed concerns about Stewart being too busy with her current responsibilities to take on the additional duties of acting county administrator, even on a short-term basis. One of Stewart’s current responsibilities as deputy county administrator is to oversee the distribution of the federal CARES Act funds that provide financial assistance to individuals and businesses who have been impacted by the COVID-19 pandemic. It was noted that Stewart is not interested in serving as acting county administrator for an extended period or in serving as the

next county administrator. Clague noted that Stewart would not be vacating her deputy county administrator’s position and will continue in that role once a new acting county administrator is appointed. The commission then voted 7-0 to direct Clague to draft a proposed non-negotiable, one-year contract for the hiring of an acting county administrator. Clague will present the proposed contract for commission approval no later than the commission’s March 4 land use meeting. Van Ostenbridge said if the non-negotiable contract terms are approved on March 4, he anticipates hiring a new acting county administrator as early as the commission’s regular meeting on March 9. On Thursday, Hines sent Clague a letter thanking the commission for their consideration and withdrawing himself from future consideration according to the new contract. Tuesday’s meeting ended with Coryea performing her final public act as county administrator. Surrounded by several department directors, and choked with emotion at times, Coryea presented the annual county administrator’s report for 2020. While doing so, she praised and thanked those and other staff members for all the assistance and support they provided her. Coryea then returned to her office and worked until 9:30 p.m. before leaving the county administration building for the final time as a county employee.

THE SUN

OPINION

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

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MARCH 3, 2021

The Anna Maria Island Sun Staff Publishers Mike Field Maggie Field Editor/CEO Mike Field Layout Ricardo Fonseca Reporters Cindy Lane Joe Hendricks Kristin Swain Columnists Louise Bolger Outdoors editor Rusty Chinnis Advertising director Shona Otto Ad assistant Pamela Lee Classified ads Bob Alexander Graphics Elaine Stroili Ricardo Fonseca Digital/Social Media editor Cindy Lane Accounting John Reitz Distribution Bob Alexander Tony McNulty Connor Field Contributors Tom Vaught Steve Borggren Monica Simpson

LETTERS TO THE EDITOR

Regarding common sense After reading this week's letter to the editor, which was about safety on the roads as we travel, I was compelled to write about the emerging industry of autonomous cars and the Al (artificial - intelligence) which operates these vehicles. I’ve been following this through its evolution from national legislation until today. To date I have been asking myself and others whether common sense exists within this industry or the legislation that spawned it. Approximately five years ago Volvo proudly exhibited it's prototype autonomous vehicle to a news reporter. Volvo's representative encouraged the reporter to stand in the path of the car assuring him that the driver-

less prototype would stop before reaching him; within seconds the reporter was laying on top of the car's hood. The Al unit did not apply the brakes. It struck the reporter. Volvo has since suspended research and development within the autonomous car niche. Over the last several years there have been numerous accidents, injuries and deaths resulting from the operation of autonomous vehicles. Curiously, I did a simple internet search last week to see where R & D was at with this technology. Clearly, the field of research has grown and includes multiple entities and countries. One company, Waymo, experienced 18 accidents over a 20-month period. The company continues driverless experiments today.

Applying common sense I ask: If you or I accrued 18 accidents in a two-year period, would any state's Department of Motor Vehicles revoke our privilege to operate a motor vehicle? If a given state would not revoke one's driver's license, is there any insurance company that would insure such a driver? Call it Al or autonomous car; it is programmed with information that is deliberated and aggregated by humans. Therefore, the driverless car is imperfect. Al will never be flawless. Let us not be deluded. Simple logic should compel us to conclude that a car in motion is safest with an experienced, human driver at the controls. Ray Spencer Bradenton

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

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

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MARCH 3, 2021

ON THE AGENDA ANNA MARIA

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

City hall is open to the public with limited capacity and safety protocols in place. Please visit www.cityofannamaria.com or contact city hall for more information. March 11, 2 p.m. – City Commission meeting March 25, 6 p.m. – City Commission meeting

BRADENTON BEACH

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

City hall is open to the public with limited capacity and safety protocols in place. Please visit www.cityofbradentonbeach.com or contact city hall for more information. March 3, 9:15 a.m. – City Commission emergency meeting March 3, 9:30 a.m. – Community Redevelopment Agency meeting March 3, 2 p.m. – Scenic WAVES meeting March 4, 6 p.m. – City Commission meeting March 9, 10 a.m. – City Commission work meeting

March 11, 10 a.m. – Department Head work meeting March 18, noon – City Commission meeting

HOLMES BEACH

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

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

SATURDAY

City hall is open to the public by appointment only. Please visit www.holmesbeachfl. org or contact city hall for more information. March 9, 6 p.m. – City Commission meeting with work session to follow March 10, 10 a.m. – Parks and Beautification Committee meeting March 10, 6 p.m. – Planning Commission meeting March 17, 10 a.m. – Code Compliance special magistrate hearing March 23, 6 p.m. – City Commission meeting with work session to follow

Robinson Runners, Robinson Preserve, 840 Ninth Ave. N.W., Bradenton, 8-9 a.m. No reservations required. Keep Manatee Beautiful: Great American Clean Up, Kingfish Boat Ramp, 752 Manatee Ave., Holmes Beach, 9 a.m. Reservations required at https://www.manateebeautiful. com/event-details/great-american-cleanup Saturday mornings at the NEST, Robinson Preserve Mosaic Nest, 840 Ninth Ave. N.W., Bradenton, 9 a.m. to noon. Face masks required.

MARCH 6

MARKYOUR CALENDAR

SUNDAY

The Island Branch Library is open at 40% capacity. Please wear a face mask/covering. The Tingley Memorial Library is open. The Center of Anna Maria Island is open with social distancing and face masks required. The Holmes Beach dog park (Scentral Park), skate park, basketball courts, pickleball courts and tennis courts are open. Local preserves are open, including Grassy Point Preserve, Neal Preserve, Perico Preserve and Robinson Preserve. Local beaches are open.

Beach market, Coquina Beach, 2650 Gulf Drive S., Bradenton Beach, 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Rise and Shine Power Flow Yoga, Robinson Preserve Mosaic Nest, 840 Ninth Ave. N.W., Bradenton 10:30 a.m. to 11:45 a.m., $10 fee payable online. Bring your own yoga mat. Register at https://parks.mymanatee.org/wbwsc/webtrac.wsc/search. html?primarycode=110006 or call 941-7425923 ext. 6042 for more information. Robinson Preserve paddle yoga, 1704 99th St. N.W., Bradenton, 10:30 a.m. to noon, $37. Register online at www.saltybuddhaco.com/ registration.

WEDNESDAY MARCH 3

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

THURSDAY MARCH 4

Seashell Shore Walk, Coquina Beach, 2650 Gulf Drive S., Bradenton Beach, 9 a.m. Reserve to 941-742-5923 ext. 6036 or elena. burke@mymanatee.org. Farmer’s Market, Holmes Beach city field, 5801 Marina Drive, Holmes Beach, 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.

MARCH 7

TUESDAY MARCH 9

Farmer’s Market, City Pier Park, 101 N. Bay Blvd., Anna Maria, 8:30 a.m. to 2 p.m. Movie in the Park, “Trolls World Tour,” City Pier Park, 101 N. Bay Blvd., Anna Maria, 6:30 p.m.

WEDNESDAY MARCH 10

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

THE SUN

THURSDAY MARCH 11

Farmer’s Market, Holmes Beach city field, 5801 Marina Drive, Holmes Beach, 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Thursdays in Paradise Stroll featuring local art, music and food, Bridge Street, Bradenton Beach, 5 to 8 p.m.

SATURDAY MARCH 13

Robinson Runners, Robinson Preserve, 840 Ninth Ave. N.W., Bradenton, 8-9 a.m. No reservations required. Saturday mornings at the NEST, Robinson Preserve Mosaic Nest, 840 Ninth Ave. N.W., Bradenton, 9 a.m. to noon. Face masks required. Tour the Cortez Cultural Center, 11655 Cortez Rd. W., Cortez, 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. Social distancing and face coverings required. Environmental film night at the NEST, Robinson Preserve Mosaic Nest, 840 Ninth Ave. N.W., Bradenton, 7 p.m. Reserve to elena. burke@mymanatee.org or 941-742-5923 ext. 6036.

SUNDAY MARCH 14

TUESDAY MARCH 16

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

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MARCH 3, 2021

Celebrate Wildlife Inc. Day March 3 BY CINDY LANE SUN STAFF WRITER | clane@amisun.com

BRADENTON BEACH - Wednesday, March 3 is Wildlife Inc. Day in Manatee County and county commissioners have honored the business with a proclamation touting its achievements. Operated by Ed and Gail Straight since 1987 at their Bradenton Beach home, Wildlife Education and Rehabilitation Center Inc. also has an exhibit at Mixon Fruit Farms, 2525 27th St. E. in Bradenton. The Straights were named the Anna Maria Island Sun Persons of the Year in 2014. The county’s only licensed native bird, mammal and reptile wildlife rehabilitation facility rescues and houses more than 4,000 animals each year, including unwanted exotic pets such as African tortoises, Burmese pythons, bearded dragons, parrots and even prairie dogs. Funded by donations and grants, Wildlife Inc. rehabilitates and returns to the wild more than 70% of the animals it receives. Before COVID-19, the organization was making presentations with nonreleasable birds at schools, churches,

SUBMITTED

clubs and community events, reaching an estimated 100,000 children and adults annually. “We took our garage and turned it into a hospital with a section for orphaned babies. The side and back of our yard are lined with cages. Our front yard is given way to the abandoned tortoises, turtles and rabbits,” Ed Straight said. But changes in wildlife rehab regulations now require larger cages and a 100-foot flight cage, he said, adding, “There is simply no room for that.” As a result, the organization is searching for a suitable 5- to 10-acre site to relocate its home-based operation.

WILDLIFE INC. | SUBMITTED

Owls and other birds of prey are among the most common rescues at Wildlife Inc. The Straights will celebrate their special day on Wednesday live on Facebook, showing the many animals in their care.

They are also giving away three Tshirts to random winners on Facebook at noon Wednesday. Enter at http:// wildlifeinc.org/?page_id=4236.

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LANDSIDE

6906 14th Street West 941.758.7880

CORTEZ

6696 Cortez Road 941.792.0077

ELLENTON

1525 51st Avenue East 941.721.7773

BRIDGE ST. PIER Bradenton Beach 941.778.AMOB (2662)

MARCH 3, 2021

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MARCH 3, 2021

Legislature last resort for net camp If the Florida Legislature decides to save the net camp built off the Cortez commercial fishing village, a local judge said he will reconsider his order to demolish it. BY CINDY LANE SUN STAFF WRITER | clane@amisun.com

CORTEZ – Raymond Guthrie Jr. has 60 days to convince the Florida Legislature to save the net camp he built in Sarasota Bay off the commercial fishing village before a court order to demolish it takes effect. Manatee County 12th Judicial Circuit Court Judge Ed Nicholas ruled Monday that if the Legislature decides before it adjourns 60 days from the session’s start on March 2 that the structure should be protected, “that would certainly be a factor that the court would take into consideration.” There is no harm in seeing “if the Legislature wants to consider the potential to grandfather this camp, as it appears they have done to others at some point throughout the state,” Nicholas said in his ruling on Guthrie’s motion to stay the Florida Department of Environmental Protection (DEP)’s Oct. 8, 2020 order to demolish the structure by Jan. 24, 2021. The order resulted from DEP prevailing in its claim that the state owns the submerged land under Guthrie’s structure and that its construction was illegal.

CINDY LANE | SUN

Raymond Guthrie Jr. calls his stilt structure a net camp, and says it was built on the site of his family’s former net camps in Sarasota Bay. Guthrie built the stilt structure in 2017 on what he says is the site of his family’s three former net camps, built over 70 years in Sarasota Bay. A.P. Bell Fish Co. manager Karen Bell recently asked local legislators to request that DEP stay its demolition order, giving them time to draft legislation to protect the camp during the session. Legislators advised her to seek a stay in court. “I’m happy,” she said. “Now it’s time to talk to the Legislature and see if they can help.” Bell previously appealed in vain to Gov. Ron DeSantis to overturn the demolition, writing, “These camps are iconic to this community. Artists come from all over

the world and have memorialized these structures in their work. I do not understand how my state is not supportive of our history.” “I think there’s a failure to appreciate the historical nature of this,” Guthrie’s Bradenton attorney, Robert Schermer, told the court. “This is, in our view, no different than the historic school in Cortez, the historic museum; this is a part of the history of the village.” Cortez is on the National Register of Historic Places. Net camps, which once dotted the Cortez waterfront in Sarasota Bay, were used to clean, dry and store cotton nets. They declined in use when net makers

began using more durable fibers and were made virtually obsolete by the 1994 Florida gill net ban. Today, only Guthrie’s structure and a historic net camp remain off Cortez, the latter restored by the not-for-profit group, the Florida Institute for Saltwater Heritage (FISH). Bell also previously intervened unsuccessfully in the lawsuit, claiming the structure has existed on the spot since at least the early 1900s and was protected by the 1921 Butler Act. DEP said the Butler Act did not protect the most recent structure because it had been allowed to deteriorate beyond use.

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MARCH 3, 2021

THE SUN

VACCINATION: investigation triggered FROM PAGE 1

lottery-style vaccine registration and standby pool protocols previously established by the Manatee County Commission, Baugh helped organize a pop-up vaccine distribution site for 3,000 recipients in the 34202 and 34211 zip codes only. In doing so, Baugh did not consult her fellow commissioners. The vaccinations occurred the week of Feb. 16. On Feb. 16, Manatee County issued a press release regarding the pop-up clinic. In the press release, Baugh was quoted as saying, “This unique opportunity was made possible by Governor DeSantis calling Rex Jensen wanting to do a vaccination site near Lakewood Ranch. The governor has been trying to find large areas of neighborhoods to target.” Jensen is the president of SchroederManatee Ranch Inc. Schroeder-Manatee Ranch is the parent company of Lakewood Ranch. In addition to restricting vaccine access to zip codes only, Baugh produced a list of five specific vaccine recipients who did not have to rely on their names being randomly pulled from the county’s standby registration pool. That list included Baugh herself, even though she decided later not to receive the vaccine. On Monday, Feb. 15, Baugh emailed her list of specific recipients to Manatee County Public Safety Director Jake Saur. Baugh’s list included Jensen, whom she listed as living in the 34212 zip code, and his father, Lawrence Jensen, whom she listed as living in the 34208 zip code. Baugh’s list also included Lakewood Ranch residents Robert and Marie Keehn, whom she listed as living in the 34202 zip code, and herself, whom she listed as living

in the 34202 zip code. Baugh also owns the Vanessa Fine Jewelry store in Lakewood Ranch.

Sometime near Tuesday, Feb. 9, Manatee

COMPLAINT ALLEGATIONS

telephone call from Pat Neal. Governor Ron

“Based on the following information, I have a reasonable belief that violations of Florida Statutes occurred by Vanessa Baugh beginning on or about Feb. 9,” Barfield stated in his complaint. The complaint references the following Florida Statutes: “When Baugh inserted individuals and herself on a COVID-19 vaccine distribution list, she acted contrary to the adopted Vaccine Standby Pool and used her official position to secure a special privilege, benefit, or exemption for herself and others, which may be in violation of section 112.313(6), Florida Statutes, Misuse of Public Position. “By including herself and individuals on a COVID-19 vaccine distribution list, Baugh acted contrary to the adopted Vaccine Standby Pool and altered or caused the alteration of an official record or official document, except as authorized by law or contract, or caused another person to perform such an act, which may be in violation of Section 838.022, Florida Statutes, Official Misconduct. “By including herself and individuals on a COVID-19 vaccine distribution list, Baugh acted contrary to the adopted Vaccine Standby Pool and used her official position to take action in reliance on information to which she had access in her official capacity and which had not been made public, to acquire a pecuniary interest or gain a benefit by such information, which may be in violation of section 839.26, Florida Statutes, Misuse of Confiden-

County resident Rex Jensen received a DeSantis was already on the line when the call was made.” Michael Barfield, Paralegal

tial Information,” Barfield stated in his complaint.

SUPPORTING STATEMENTS

Barfield’s complaint includes several additional supporting statements. “On Jan. 6, the Board of County Commissioners (BCC) of Manatee County held a special meeting regarding COVID-19 and vaccinations. At the conclusion of that special meeting, the Manatee BCC adopted a motion authorizing the county administrator to implement the ‘Vaccine Standby Pool,’ effective Jan. 7, until further notice. The motion was adopted unanimously. As explained in the public presentation during the special meeting, the effect of the Vaccine Standby Pool was to randomize distribution of the COVID-19 vaccine through a lottery system,” the complaint states. “On or about Feb. 8, constituents of Baugh were actively soliciting her about their eligibility and inability to get appointments for vaccine distribution in Manatee County. Sometime near Tuesday, Feb. 9, Manatee County resident Rex Jensen received a telephone call from Pat Neal. Governor

Ron DeSantis was already on the line when the call was made. The reported purpose of the call was to facilitate a location for a pop-up vaccine distribution site at Premier Sports Campus for additional doses of COVID-19 vaccine,” the complaint states. “On Feb. 9, Baugh sent an email to Jacob (Jake) Saur, Director of Public Safety of Manatee County stating, ‘Jake, the state wants Rex to keep a list. Can we do that.’ That same afternoon, Jensen sent an email to Courtney Coppola, a Florida Department of Health employee, stating Baugh helped reserve the pop-up site and outlining the tentative plan: ‘I have no infrastructure or staff to field all the calls necessary to assemble and maintain a list of candidates for the vaccine. I am copying Commissioner Baugh in the hope that she might be able to think creatively to find a solution,’” the complaint states. “Baugh ignored the Vaccine Standby Pool process and selected two zip codes within her own district, including friends and herself, that would receive the additional doses of COVID-19 vaccine at SEE VACCINE, PAGE 25

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MARCH 3, 2021

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Barbara Murphy, Liz Hager and Nancy Flynn were among the officers elected during the annual member’s luncheon.

AMI Historical Society hosts annual luncheon The annual luncheon included the election of this year’s historical society officers. BY JOE HENDRICKS SUN CORRESPONDENT | jhendricks@amisun.com

ANNA MARIA – The Anna Maria Island Historical Society recently held its annual members’ luncheon as a picnic in the park. The picnic took place on Wednesday, Feb. 24 behind the Old City Jail and Belle Haven Cottage on the museum campus at 402 Pine Ave. in Anna Maria. As part of the COVID-19 protocols, attendance was limited to 40 members who sat socially distanced at the picnic tables. The box lunches were provided by Ginny’s and Jane E’s Café. Featured speaker Richard Sanchez, president of the Egmont Key Alliance, outlined the history of Egmont Key dating back to when the Spanish and then the English claimed the land for their countries and continuing through to the modern efforts to preserve the historical structures that remain on the key. Sanchez also detailed Egmont Key’s important role in several wars – including the Civil War, when the island was a Union base; and the Spanish American War, when Teddy Roosevelt’s Rough Riders departed for Cuba from Egmont. During the luncheon, the members elected its society officers for the year. The officers are Liz Hager, president; Barbara Murphy, vice president; Evelyn Hoskins, corresponding secretary;

AMI HISTORICAL SOCIETY | SUBMITTED.

Featured speaker Richard Sanchez discussed the history of Egmont Key. Nancy Flynn, recording secretary and George McKay, treasurer. Founding member Pat Copeland became a board member emeritus.

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MARCH 3, 2021

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Interactive model can anticipate stormwater effects Holmes Beach commissioners are getting a new toy for the city, one that can judge different scenarios and determine how changes will affect the potential for future flooding. BY KRISTIN SWAIN SUN STAFF WRITER | kswain@amisun.com

HOLMES BEACH – A new way to figure out the potential impacts of stormwater, flooding and other water events is coming to the city. Commissioners voted unanimously to accept a contract proposed by Mayor Judy Titsworth for a hydrodynamic stormwater modeling system. The new computerized system will allow city employees to run different scenar-

ios to see where the potential for flooding is. The modeling system should show, for example, what happens when one lot has fill, the one next to it doesn’t, and it rains heavily. The computer modeling system will take into account the elevation of every part of the city, all elements of the Holmes Beach stormwater system and other elements while also allowing for different items to be changed, such as the installation of new stormwater piping. The new system, from Progressive Water Resources of Sarasota, will cost about $58,000 plus hourly fees for experts during the creation of the model. Titsworth said that money could come from allocated stormwater funds without adding to the budget since the city is internalizing much of the current work on the stormwater

system instead of hiring contractors. In budget year 2021-22, she added she would like to see if money could be allocated to add a person to the public works department preferably someone familiar with the maintenance of stormwater systems. Director of Development Services Eran Wasserman said he feels the stormwater modeling system is one very important element that was missing in the city’s fight against the encroachment of seawater. “I think this is wonderful,” Commissioner Carol Soustek said, adding that she’ll be very happy to be able to easily check on how much pervious and impervious surface is in the city.

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MARCH 3, 2021

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Bali Hai site plan negotiations continue Discussions between the owners of the Bali Hai and Holmes Beach city leaders are getting closer to a conclusion but both parties disagree with how business should continue on the resort property in the meantime. BY KRISTIN SWAIN SUN STAFF WRITER | kswain@amisun.com

HOLMES BEACH – Talks between the property owners at the Bali Hai Beachfront Resort and city leaders are planned to continue at a future meeting and it looks like both parties are moving closer to an agreement. During a Feb. 23 work session, discussions on the proposed Bali Hai site plan amendment continued, with Assistant City Planner Austin Doles giving a presentation on what the

property owners would like to do and how she recommends city leaders respond. And while city commissioners and attorney Louis Najmy, speaking on behalf of the resort’s owners, are closer to an agreement, there are a couple of sticking points where the two parties are not seeing eye to eye, primarily concerning how the resort should operate until the site plan is approved. City staff suggested the unpermitted bar/lounge and spa on the premises at the Bali Hai should cease operations until the site plan amendment is approved, permits are received, the property passes all inspections, and receives a certificate of occupancy for those areas. Najmy said it’s unfair of the city to request the bar/lounge and spa operations to cease while the details of the site plan are worked out with city leaders. He argues that the bar/ lounge area was a pre-existing use on the property. Brisson said he’s been unable to find

SUBMITTED | GOOGLE EARTH

The Bali Hai resort is located in a mixed-use residential district which restricts some of the owners' aspirations for the property. any permits, business tax receipts, or other records that prove the bar/lounge was in use before the current owners opening it. Mayor Judy Titsworth said her father built the property and the area underneath the old owner's apartment currently being used as a bar/lounge for guests was previously an entertaining

space for the prior owners. Najmy also argued that his clients have put millions of dollars into the property to try and make it a five-star establishment. Commissioner Jayne Christenson said it would have benefitted his clients to present their plans to the city for approval before investing to make sure that their vision for the

Bali Hai resort could be accommodated in the residential zone where the property is located. While commissioners said they don’t want to prevent the resort from being profitable for its owners, they have to consider the surrounding residential neighbors and what’s allowed in the beachfront district when approving the site plan, particularly since construction work was completed and amenities were added without prior approval from the city or permits being applied for. And while discussions ended Feb. 23 at an impasse, commissioners agreed to move the proposed site plan forward to a regular meeting and public hearing in the hopes of getting more input from the resort’s neighbors. Commissioners also hope to reach an agreement with the resort’s owners before a case seeking an injunction to stop operations at the resort until a new site plan is approved moves forward in Manatee County Circuit Court.

MARCH 3, 2021

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MARCH 3, 2021

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OUTDOORS

MARCH 3, 2021

New executive director joins Suncoast Waterkeeper Reel Time RUSTY CHINNIS

uncoast Waterkeeper (SCWK) is pleased to announce Samantha (Sam) Gentrup as the group's new executive director. Gentrup comes to Suncoast Waterkeeper with an extensive background in education and grassroots environmental movements. After almost two decades of empowering children and young adults to use their skills and passion to make a difference in the world, Gentrup said she is excited to make environmental activism her primary focus. Gentrup has been a public speaker, grassroots co-leader, environmental speechwriter, and organizer for local and statewide events. Her passion centers on raising awareness about the challenges that face the region's fragile marine ecosystems. Gentrup understands the interconnectivity of the issues that face the Suncoast and will bring passion and energy to Suncoast Waterkeeper's environmental protection movement. Gentrup will participate in Sarasota Bay Watch’s (SBW) Annual Sister Keys Cleanup this Saturday, March 6, 2021. Suncoast Waterkeeper (SCWK) is teaming up with Sarasota Bay Watch this year and in the future on this longstanding event. The cleanup is a collaboration with the Town of Longboat Key and the Chiles Group. The event will kick off starting with registration at 8 a.m. on the bayfront at the Mar Vista Restaurant

at 760 Broadway Street, Longboat Key. Volunteers will work for four hours on the island and around the mangrove fringes collecting trash and recyclable items. The Sister Keys were originally slated for development in the early 60s and were once again threatened in 1989 when they went on sale for one million dollars. That spurred a group of citizens to form the Sister Keys Conservancy in an attempt to buy and preserve the islands as a nature preserve. The Town purchased the islands in 1994 with a stipulation that the keys would never be developed. The islands underwent a million-dollar mitigation in 2007 that removed all invasive species, planted native flora and created a two-acre wetland. The Longboat Key Marine division will be patrolling the intercoastal waterway to slow boaters. Kayakers and those without a boat will be ferried to the island by volunteers. Larry Beggs, owner of Reef Innovations Inc., will once again help the effort with a barge where volunteers can offload their trash. This year, due to the pandemic, a light box lunch will be served, courtesy of the Mar Vista Restaurant. Anyone not willing to mask for the event or those who are still uncomfortable with groups can still participate during the following week. Through an arrangement with Longboat Key Public Works, volunteers can do a cleanup on their own and deposit bags at the town dock for pick up between March 6 and March 14. Registration is required and participants can sign up on the Sarasota Bay Watch website www.sarasotabaywatch.org. The Sister Keys Clean Up is just one

RUSTY CHINNIS | SUN

An aerial view of the Sister Keys cleanup site. of many projects that SBW is involved in. In 2020 SBW planted more than 750,000 clams in the bay in an ongoing restoration effort. Other cleanups are conducted at various locations throughout the bay as well as an annual monofilament cleanup and much more. Suncoast Waterkeeper is a Sarasota-based advocacy nonprofit committed to protecting and restoring Florida Suncoast’s waterways through enforcement, fieldwork, advocacy and environmental education for the benefit of the communities that rely upon these precious coastal resources. Their efforts have been responsible for major initiatives that hold municipalities responsible to mandates established in the land-

mark 1982 Clean Water Act. In addition, SCWK also conducts bi-monthly water testing of inland coastal waters. For more information on their mission go to www.suncoastwaterkeeper.org.

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MARCH 3, 2021

THE SUN

Pompano, mangrove snapper hungry inshore CAPTAIN DAVE WHITE

The weather this last week was absolutely stellar! The increase in temperature and the lack of wind made anything possible for our clients here at Anna Maria Charters. Inshore, the sheepshead, mangrove snapper, Spanish mackerel and pompano are keeping busy our clients who want some meat for dinner during their stay. Meanwhile, the snook, jack crevalle, and redfish are tugging hard for the clients just looking for a fight. All in all, a great time for inshore fishing altogether. Offshore, the red grouper are spawning in depths of 120 feet or greater. It’s prohibited to keep them in waters of this depth. But there are still good fish a little shallower than that. We didn’t have too much trouble finding them on our offshore trips this week. Also, we found some great yellowtail snapper and mangrove snapper up to 7 pounds. The full moon threw things off a little bit. But we still got it done. It looks like the weather stays nice and the out-of-towners continue to roll in. Enjoy the weather while it lasts.

CAPTAIN RICK GRASSETT

There should be good action with reds, trout and snook in skinny water in March as baitfish become more plentiful. Look for Spanish and king mackerel, cobia, tripletail and false albacore (little tunny) in the coastal Gulf. Night snook fishing in the ICW should also be a good option this month. Snook, reds and spotted sea trout remain closed to harvest on the west coast of Florida. The Florida FWC has enacted a temporary modification of regulations for reds, snook and trout, in the areas affected by red tide. The

area extends from Pasco County, south to the south bank of Gordon Pass in Collier County. Reds, snook and trout are catch and release only in that zone until May 31, 2021. Full details including exact boundaries can be found at https://myfwc.com/news/all-news/ extended-cnr-220/. This will be revisited before May 31 and could be extended for a longer period of time. This should be a good month for snook fishing at night around lighted docks and bridge fenders in the ICW. DOA Shrimp, CAL jigs with shad tails and small white flies, like my Grassett Snook Minnow, usually work well at night since glass minnows and shrimp are the predominate bait. Focus on shadow lines where light meets dark and fish strong tides for the best action. Although snook may also be found in rivers, creeks or canals in March, they will also start to move onto shallow flats, particularly on sunny afternoons when it’s warm. I like larger lures like CAL jigs with jerk worms, CAL 4” Shad Tails, DOA Baitbusters and the DOA PT soft plastic top water lure or wide profile flies like Clousers, Deceivers and EP flies, for snook on the flats. Look for early season tarpon that may start to show in backcountry areas. These are usually adult resident fish that are making their way out of rivers and creeks. They may be “laid up” or rolling on deep grass flats, on edges of shallow flats or along bars when it is calm. An accurate cast with a DOA Shrimp, a Deceiver or Tarpon Bunny fly may result in an explosive strike! Look for them in areas of Sarasota Bay, lower Tampa Bay or in Gasparilla Sound on some of the same deep grass

CAPTAIN DAVE WHITE | SUBMITTED

Lon Anderson, of Bradenton, shows off a large model red grouper caught with Captain David White of Anna Maria Charters. flats where you find trout. Reds should be more active as the water warms and baitfish become more plentiful. Higher tides, as we head into spring, will allow them to spend more time feeding in shallow water. Look for them over shallow grass, along mangrove shorelines and around oyster bars when the tide is high. You should find them in potholes and along sand bars when the tide is low. I like the shallow flats of north Sarasota Bay for reds this month. I like 1/16-ounce CAL jigs with shad tails and jerk worms to locate reds. Fly anglers should score with my Grassett Flats Minnow fly, fished on a 10’-12’ leader. When using a long leader be sure you are able turn it over, otherwise you’ll need to shorten it until you can. The butt section should be at least 50% of the total length of the leader and stiff enough to transfer energy from your fly line to the leader. You might also find reds around docks when the tide is low. Look for deep water under docks with

a good tidal flow for the best action. A 1/8-ounce CAL jig with a shad tail or grub or a weighted fly fished on a clear intermediate sink tip fly line with a 6’ leader with should work well for dock fishing. You may find big trout in skinny water in many of the same places that you find reds. Blind cast seams where grass meets sand or focus on light colored bottom, in potholes on top of sand bars, where you may be able to sight fish them. These big fish, usually females, are important to the health of our fishery. You should also find trout plentiful on deep grass flats along with Spanish mackerel, blues, flounder or pompano. I like to make a series of drifts, casting ahead of the drift with CAL jigs with shad tails, DOA Deadly Combos or an Ultra Hair Clouser fly tied on a long shank hook and fished on a clear intermediate sink tip fly line to locate fish. Also look for birds, bait showering out of the water or boils on the surface that will

indicate fish feeding below. When mackerel and blues are around, you may need to add 6 inches of 40# to 60# fluorocarbon or wire to your leader. Top water plugs and fly poppers also work well when blues and mackerel are around and may help locate them by attracting them from further away. Flounder may be found on sand or mud bottom areas on both shallow and deep grass flats or around docks. Pompano may skip on the surface when you drift or run past them, giving their location away. Fish deep grass flats with a mixture of grass and sand and a strong tidal flow for the best action. You may also find Spanish or king mackerel, false albacore (little tunny), cobia or tripletail in the coastal Gulf this month. Look for diving or hovering terns to find Spanish mackerel or false albacore feeding on the surface. Quarter-ounce CAL jigs with shad tails or jerk worms or top water plugs should work well for spin anglers. Fly anglers should score with small white flies, like my Grassett Snook Minnow or Ultra Hair Clousers fished on an intermediate sink tip fly line. Run crab trap lines at various depths to find tripletail or cobia around crab trap floats. Cobia may also be swimming on the surface as they migrate from south to north following warmer water and baitfish. In the absence of any fish on the surface, check out one of the many artificial reefs or natural hard bottom areas that may hold baitfish and predators. Drift over structure and cast DOA Baitbusters or weighted flies on fast sinking fly lines to get deeper in the water column to catch them.

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MARCH 3, 2021

Commissioners close in on illuminated sign regulations Holmes Beach commissioners are moving closer to approving new restrictions for signage in the A-1 residential district along Gulf Drive. BY KRISTIN SWAIN SUN STAFF WRITER | kswain@amisun.com

HOLMES BEACH – Backlit signs in the residential and A-1 district along Gulf Drive may have to be replaced under new regulations being considered by the city. Commissioners discussed the changes to the city sign restrictions during a Feb. 23 work session. City Planner Bill Brisson reported there are four backlit signs in the district along Gulf Drive, but only one has a city permit. And that one, he added, was permitted by mistake. Brisson said the four signs are at Resort Sixty-Six, the White Sands Beach Resort, Cedar Cove and the Anna Maria Beach Resort. The one at the Anna Maria Beach Resort is the one that was approved and granted a permit by former Building Official Jim McGuinness. However, no backlit illuminated signs are currently allowed outside of commercial districts, according to city codes. Commissioners said they are not considering allowing illuminated signs in the residential district where the Anna Maria Beach Resort is located on Gulf Drive. However, they are considering offering the owners a sunset clause period where the sign can be used to help recoup the expense of installing the sign. During the meeting, commissioners agreed to a five-year sunset period for that sign. The other backlit signs will have six months to either be replaced or have the backlit capabilities removed. Illumination would then be allowed

KRISTIN SWAIN | SUN

The sign at the White Sands Beach Resort is one of three in the residential area along Gulf Drive in Holmes Beach that may soon have to be changed. The backlit illuminated sign at Resort Sixty-Six for the Beach Bistro (below) may have to be brought into compliance if Holmes Beach commissioners approve new illuminated sign regulations for the residential area along Gulf Drive.

only by a single spotlight. There was no discussion on allowing the owners of the Anna Maria Beach Resort property to use an LED board on their sign during the sunset clause period if approved by two commission votes during public hearings. And though signs are being allowed for property identification purposes, commissioners agreed that they prefer the low, often wooden signs lit by a single spotlight used by many properties

in the area instead of the more commercial-looking backlit signs. Brisson said he would talk with a lighting expert to determine appropriate brightness, lumen output, and sign size before the issue comes back before commissioners at a future work session. The ordinance will have to pass two public hearings and votes by commissioners before it can be enforced.

MARCH 3, 2021

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THE SUN

Roser hosts virtual style show Despite not being able to host an in-person luncheon and fashion show, the show must go on this year at Roser Memorial Community Church. This year’s fashion show will be an online extravaganza called “A Preview of Things to Come.” Models will strut their stuff through the narthex of the church showing off some of the many styles available at the Roser Guild Thrift Shop when the store opens again. The virtual style show will be available to watch live at 1:30 p.m. on Tuesday, March 9 at www.youtube. com/roserchurch and www.roserchurch.com under the events page. For more information, contact the church at 941-778-0414. ROSER CHURCH | SUBMITTED

Nancian Hall previews one of the looks planned for the 2021 Roser Style Show.

Relative Harmony to perform outdoor concert Roser Memorial Community Church’s annual concert series is moving outdoors and kicking off with a performance by classical musical trio Relative Harmony. The group, made up of flutist Mary Deur, her sister, harpist Melody Rapier and Melody’s husband, French hornist Chris Rapier, will play a combination of light classical music, worship favorites and a few traditional Irish tunes. The concert starts at 3 p.m. on March 7 in the sanctuary parking lot. Attendees are asked to arrive early and bring their own lawn chairs. Everyone is required to wear

ROSER CHURCH | SUBMITTED

The musical trio of Relative Harmony will perform on March 7 as part of Roser’s annual concert series. a mask throughout the program and groups are asked to remain six feet apart from other groups. Parking is available in the thrift shop and fellowship hall parking areas. Handicap parking

is available on the west side of the sanctuary entrance. The event is free to the public. For more information, visit www. roserchurch.com/events. Roser is located at 512 Pine Ave. in Anna Maria.

THE SUN

REAL ESTATE

MARCH 3, 2021

Cold month, hot market

have always found real estate to be a very exciting profession. What other job allows and encourages you to peek into people’s closets and check out their favorite shampoo? And right now, real estate professionals are super excited, as they should be – just look at these numbers. There are few words to describe the Sarasota and Manatee housing market, but “sensational” is one of them. According to the Realtor Association of Sarasota and Manatee, closed sales increased year-overyear by 23.6% across the two-county market. So, let’s look at the Manatee County sales for January, also reported by the Realtor Association of Sarasota and Manatee. Single-family closed sales in January were 25.6% higher than January of last year. The median sales price was $370,000, up 12.3% (just to review, the median is the midpoint of sales; half the homes sold for more, half for less). Also, $370,000 is the highest median sales price for single-family homes recorded for Manatee County. The average sales price

Castles in the Sand LOUISE BOLGER for single-family homes was $510,940, up 21.4% from last January. The median time to contract single-family homes was 17 days, down from 41 days last year; this means that half the properties available were in contract in more than 17 days and half in less than 17 days. New listings are down 20.9% and the month’s supply of available properties was 1.1 months, down 67.6% from last year. Condos closed 20.5% more this year than last. The median sales price was $231,000, up 10%, and the average sale price was $284,037 up 19.9%. For condos, the median time to contract was 40 days compared to 50 days last year,

and new listings are down 35.8%, with a month’s supply of properties at 1.6 months, down 66%. If you think Manatee County is getting too difficult to buy in, don’t think that Sarasota is much easier. Single-family home sales increased by 17.9% in Sarasota and condo sales increased by 32.6%. In Sarasota, the median price for single-family homes was $340,004, up 14.9%, and condo prices were up by 9.1% to $302,250. Essentially, whether you’re looking to buy in either Sarasota or Manatee counties, you’re in for a difficult process. The combined inventory including both property types in the two counties declined by 59.9%. Alex Krumm, president of the Realtor Association of Sarasota and Manatee, had a couple of things to say about the market when the January numbers were released: “Our sales tend to be strong through fall and winter, but what we’re seeing right now is unprecedented. There are far more buyers than sellers, which reinforces the

trend of rising prices and competition in our marketplace.” He goes on: “Waiting to purchase is a mistake right now. Home prices are increasing at an incredible pace with no sign of slowing, and sellers can take advantage of a very favorable climate to fetch good prices and great terms.” And to add another log on the real estate fire, the Mortgage Bankers Association anticipates home purchase originations will grow to a record level in 2021 and mortgage rates will stay historically low, generating an even more competitive real estate market. Living on the edge waiting for properties to close can be stressful for real estate professionals in a normal real estate market, but what we’re experiencing now is far from normal. What is stressing out real estate brokers now is finding properties to sell. I guess plumbers may have less financial stress and are also welcomed in people’s bathrooms, but where’s the excitement there? Stay safe.

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MARCH 3, 2021

THE SUN

Baugh named in vaccine-related ethics complaint The county commission voted 4-3 against removing Vanessa Baugh as the commission chairperson, after Baugh refused to resign from that position. BY JOE HENDRICKS SUN CORRESPONDENT | jhendricks@amisun.com

BRADENTON – Manatee County resident Jennifer Hamey filed a complaint with the Florida Commission on Ethics Tuesday regarding County Commissioner Vanessa Baugh’s recent role in organizing a pop-up COVID-19 vaccination distribution site in Lakewood Ranch. Hamey, a local attorney, filed the ethics complaint one day after Sarasota paralegal Michael Barfield filed a sworn criminal complaint with 12th Judicial Circuit State Attorney Ed Brodsky’s office and the Manatee County Sheriff’s Office regarding Baugh’s participation in arranging the

event and including herself and four friends on the vaccine list. Hamey’s ethics complaint and Barfield’s criminal complaint are separate and independent actions that pertain to the same issues. Ethics complaint Taking place the week of Feb. 16 at the Premier Sports Campus in Lakewood Ranch, the pop-up clinic Baugh helped organize was limited to 3,000 recipients in the 34202 and 34211 zip codes only. As part of her organizational efforts, Baugh also submitted to Manatee County Public Safety Director Jacob Saur a list containing the names of five specific individuals, including herself, to be vaccinated. As a result of the public fallout that ensued, Baugh later apologized to some degree for her actions and she said she chose not to receive the vaccine herself. Baugh helped organize the Lakewood Ranch vaccination site in conjunction with Gov. Ron DeSantis and Lakewood Ranch developer Rex Jensen. Manatee County issued a press

randomized, lottery-based registration and standby pool protocols previously established by the Manatee County Commission, according to the ethics complaint.

ISSUES FOR CONSIDERATION

JOE HENDRICKS | SUN

Manatee County Commissioner Vanessa Baugh’s recent efforts regarding a vaccination site in Lakewood Ranch have prompted an ethics complaint. release on Feb. 15 in which Baugh was quoted as saying, “This unique opportunity was made possible by Governor DeSantis calling (Schroeder-Manatee Ranch Inc. president) Rex Jensen wanting to do a vaccination site near Lakewood Ranch. The governor has been trying to find large areas of neighborhoods to target.’” According to Baugh’s shortlist, which contained each person’s zip

code, address, phone number and birthdate, two of the five people on that list – Rex Jensen and his father, Lawrence Jensen – do not live in the 34202 or 34211 zip codes. Baugh’s shortlist also included Lakewood Ranch residents Robert and Marie Keehn, who like Baugh, do live in the 34202 zip code. The Lakewood Ranch pop-up vaccine site’s zip code restrictions were not in accordance with the

Hamey’s ethics complaint lists two issues for consideration by the Commission on Ethics. “Did respondent (Baugh) violate Florida Statute 112.313(6), Misuse of Public Position, by ignoring the county’s lottery system for the COVID-19 vaccine distribution and instead unilaterally picking two zip codes in her district to receive 3,000 additional vaccines issued by the state, to the detriment of all other Manatee County residents 65 and over who had signed up for the lottery system?” “Did respondent violate Florida Statute 112.313(6), Misuse of Public Position, by putting herself and four friends onto a ‘VIP’ list provided to the county to ensure she received a vaccine from the extra doses provided by the state?” SEE BAUGH, PAGE 24

THE SUN

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MARCH 3, 2021

BAUGH: Named in vaccine-related ethics complaint FROM PAGE 23

Hamey’s complaint says Baugh was approached earlier this month by DeSantis with an offer to provide 3,000 additional vaccines for a pop-up vaccination site at the Premier Sports Campus. To date, the county-administered vaccinations have generally occurred at Tom Bennett Park in east Manatee County and at the county’s public safety center. Hamey’s complaint notes that the Premier Sports Campus is owned and operated as a Manatee County park. “Respondent (Baugh), by her own admission as stated by her at a county work session on Feb. 18, took full responsibility for choosing the two zip code locations and advised she was not directed by the governor to do so. Both of these zip codes are located in her district, are predominantly white and have an average median income of over $100,000,” the complaint states. It also notes Baugh lives in the 34202 zip code and owns a business there as well. The ethics complaint states, “Respondent (Baugh) further admits in her responses to correspondence from an angry resident

that she ‘did have a lack of judgment.’ ” Hamey’s complaint cites language contained in Florida Statute 112.313(6) that states, “No public officer shall corruptly use or attempt to use his or her official position or any property or resource which may be within his or her trust, or perform his or her official duties to secure a special privilege, benefit or exemption for himself, herself or others.” The complaint also states, “The first instance of violating 112.313(6) occurred when respondent (Baugh) took it upon herself to determine what two zip codes were worthy to receive an additional 3,000 vaccines and chose two areas that were advantageous to her personally and to the detriment of the other 150,000 persons over the age of 65 who had done as directed and entered into a lottery system. “Respondent used her position to advise the governor of her choices. She did so with no discussion with the other six commissioners, and she did so without any consideration to the very lottery system she (and the other commissioners) put into place for the residents of Manatee County

to maintain fairness in the process,” according to the complaint. “The second instance of violating 112.313(6) occurred just days after already excluding over 140,000 residents from a chance at the 3,000 vaccines – only 7,285 of the approximately 150,000 signed-up residents lived in 34202 or 34211. Respondent created a ‘VIP’ list to ensure that she and several friends and neighbors got vaccines out of those 3,000 that were provided by the state. Two of the parties that she listed on her ‘VIP’ list didn’t even live within the two zip codes that she chose as the ones to get the vaccine,” Hamey stated in her complaint. “These actions taken by the respondent, separately and over the course of approximately a week, are a clear violation of the requirements outlined in 112.313(6),” the complaint states. The ethics complaint is accompanied by several evidentiary exhibits, including the Monday, Feb. 15 email Baugh sent Saur that contained her list of five specified vaccine recipients. The exhibits also include the Tuesday,

Feb. 9, email Baugh sent Saur that said, “Jake, the state wants Rex to keep a list. Can we do that.” In response, Saur wrote, “The state hasn’t mentioned anything to us on this end yet on what they require. We would be able to pull from our vaccine waiting pool for scheduling for them.”

BAUGH REMAINS COMMISSION CHAIR

On Tuesday, the Manatee County Commission voted 4-3 in opposition to Commissioner Reggie Bellamy’s motion to remove Baugh as the commission chairperson. Bellamy’s motion did not seek to remove Baugh as a county commissioner, nor does the commission have that authority. Before making his motion, Bellamy asked Baugh if she would resign as commission chair. Baugh said she would not. Baugh was then joined by commissioners George Kruse, James Satcher and Kevin Van Ostenbridge in opposing her removal as chair. Commissioners Misty Servia and Carol Whitmore joined Bellamy in support of his failed motion.

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MARCH 3, 2021

VACCINATION: Investigation triggered FROM PAGE 11

the pop-up site. On Feb. 12, Alicia Niki Boyette, a contractor on behalf of the Florida Division of Emergency Management, sent an email to Baugh regarding the registration process for the ‘upcoming vaccination event.’ Boyette indicated that the information the department required for the event was a list with names, date of birth and phone numbers. Baugh forwarded the email from Boyette to Saur, who replied that he was working on

it. The next day, Baugh replied to Saur ‘Pls send to me when you have info as I am working on a list.’ On Monday, Feb. 15, Baugh sent an email to Saur with the subject matter ‘Names for list’ in which she added a number of individuals to the list of those who would receive the extra doses of vaccine at the pop-up site,” Barfield’s complaint states. “A notice was sent out to Manatee County residents on Feb. 17 advising that the vac-

cinations scheduled for Bennett Park under the adopted process would be rescheduled due to inclement weather. Meanwhile, the plan to distribute the additional doses at the pop-up site went forward,” the complaint states.

BARFIELD COMMENTS

When contacted Tuesday, Barfield said, “Vaccine distribution must not be based on politics. Manatee County unanimously adopted the

THE SUN

Vaccine Standby Pool and residents have been patiently waiting for their number to be called. It’s offensive and criminal when one commissioner diverts 3,000 vaccine doses to an affluent area and then adds names, including her own, to a VIP list.” “Worse, the regular vaccine distribution that was planned for the same weekend was canceled on the grounds of inclement weather. Yet the vaccine distribution at the pop-up site for the VIP list went forward without a hitch. If those optics aren’t bad enough, the VIP list and two zip codes

selected by Baugh for vaccine distribution at the pop-up site happen to be the most affluent and white in Manatee County. I might add that these two zip codes have the lowest rate of COVID-19 infection within Manatee County,” Barfield said. “This conduct is the classic example of corruption and using official power to gain a benefit for friends and the well-connected. It’s time for our system of justice to hold her accountable,” Barfield said.

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MARCH 3, 2021

Aqua homes under construction Construction has begun on the new single-family homes being built in the gated Aqua community being developed by Medallion Home and developer Carlos Beruff. The gated community is being built between El Conquistador Parkway and Sarasota Bay in unincorporated Manatee County. Gated entrances and fencing were recently installed and joined the previously constructed multi-use building that houses the sales center and offices. According to the Medallion Home website, movein ready Aqua homes range in price from $564,100 to $849,100. Furnished investor homes are also available. The Aqua community will include a four-acre man-made lagoon and beach. After several years and multiple plan variations, the Manatee County Commission, in 2017, voted 7-0 to approve the development plans that allow for up to 16 95-foot condo buildings, an unspecified number of build-

JOE HENDRICKS | SUN

The first single-family homes are now being built in the Aqua community. ings between 36 and 75 feet tall, and a total of 2,894 residential units and 78,000 square feet of commercial space. The development plans no longer include the

controversial marina and navigation canal removed from the previously proposed plans in 2013 when the development was then known as Long Bar Pointe.

Island organizations receive donations Former Home Sweet Home chair Carol Carter presents representatives from the Anna Maria Island Historical Society, Island Players and All Island Denominations with checks for $1,261.16 each. The money is the last of the funds received by the now-defunct Anna Maria Island Home Sweet Home nonprofit group founded by Carter and former Island resident Jean Peelen. The goal of the nonprofit was to help bring families and full-time residents back to Anna Maria Island by providing affordable housing. Though the group was unable to amass enough funds to purchase property and didn’t receive a property donation, Carter said she was happy that the remaining funds from the nonprofit could go to help other Island community organizations.

KRISTIN SWAIN | SUN

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MARCH 3, 2021

THE SUN

Beach renourishment begins again While Coquina Beach gets more sand, new sea oats are taking root to hold new dunes together in Bradenton Beach. The plants are protected by law. BY CINDY LANE SUN STAFF WRITER | clane@amisun.com

BRADENTON BEACH – The beaches are getting wider and new sea oats are taking root on new dunes, all part of Manatee County’s beach renourishment program. The Coquina Beach Storm Damage Restoration project began last Thursday just south of the Coquina Beach lifeguard tower and will move north toward Bridge Street 24 hours a day, seven days a week until the expected completion date of May 15. About 75,000 cubic yards of sand will be placed on Coquina Beach to compensate for sand lost during Hurricane Irma in 2017 and Hurricane Hermine in 2016.

The county’s contractor, Cottrell Contracting, is fencing off 800- to 1,000-foot sections of beach and providing a path on the beach landward of the fence so that people can walk past the closed areas, according to Manatee County Parks and Natural Resources officials. Sand ramps built over the pipe carrying the sand allow beachgoers to get to the Gulf. However, access to parts of Coquina Beach and its public parking lot will be restricted throughout construction. The last renourishment project, which ended in October, widened a 5.5-mile stretch of beach in Holmes Beach and Bradenton Beach, where crews used bulldozers to build new dunes in vulnerable areas of the newlyrenourished beaches. Hundreds of small sea oat plants were planted in the dunes to help hold the sand in place. Dunes protect upland buildings and roads from water intrusion, provide plant and animal habitat and contribute

CINDY LANE | SUN

Sea oats were planted on the new dunes created in Bradenton Beach during last year’s $17.3 million beach renourishment project. to the beauty of the beach. To preserve them, Florida law makes it a crime to cut, harvest, remove or eradicate sea oats from beaches and other

public land. Violating the law is a first-degree misdemeanor. The county has participated in eight beach nourishment projects, placing about 6.9

million cubic yards of sand on Anna Maria Island beaches from offshore borrow areas.

CITIZEN OF THE YEAR: Augostini and Brennan share honors FROM PAGE 1

That form also notes that Augostini, a retired electrical engineer, uses that knowledge to assist his neighbors. “He has helped me and others in the neighborhood with golf cart issues due to battery problems, never asking for compensation. He has been very generous with helping neighbors and others,” Brodersen wrote. After accepting his award, Augostini said, “Thank you very much. I think kids that can’t afford bikes should have bikes, and that’s what I do. I get them from other people. I get them from scrap piles, people drop them off and I rebuild them and repaint them and they go to kids at Christmas and put a smile on their face.” Some of the bikes Augostini refurbishes also go to adults in need. Carter then read aloud the nomination form Walter submitted on behalf of Brennan.

“I have known Lynn all of my life. Lynn’s family has lived/owned property on Oak Avenue since 1949. She then built her home on Oak Avenue in 1991. She is very involved with this city,” the form said. The nomination form noted many of Brennan’s past and present involvements are associated with the Roser Memorial Community Church and include serving as an usher, a Ministries Committee member and chairperson and assisting with the Roser Food Pantry. Brennan served as a docent at the AMI Historical Society Museum, served as the society’s vice president and then served for four years as its president. Brennan also spent many years as a Turtle Watch volunteer, was an original member of the Home Sweet Home group that promoted full-time residency on Anna Maria Island and is a new member of the All Island Denominations organization that assists Island residents in need.

JOE HENDRICKS | SUN

Bob Carter recognized Lynn Brennan as one of Anna Maria’s Distinguished Citizens of the Year. Adding his thoughts, Bob Carter said, “I don’t know where she found all the time to do that. She and her husband, Jack, have done many, many things for many people on this Island and it’s a great pleasure for me to present you with the Distinguished Citizen of the Year award.” After accepting the award,

Brennan said, “It’s a great honor to be selected. We have many individuals that that give their time and give their talent and give their expertise to this city to make it a great community. I’m so thankful to be selected.”

ADDITIONAL NOMINEES

On the nomination form she

submitted on behalf of the Voyles, Carol Carter mentioned Carl’s distinguished naval and medical careers and his service as the two-time marshal of the city’s annual Veterans Day parade. She noted Joan’s past efforts organizing the AMI ArtsHop events, her service on the city’s cell tower art committee and her artwork that focuses on the Island’s history and culture. She also noted the couple’s support for The Center. On the nomination form he submitted on behalf of Malfese, Sebring noted Malfese is a lifelong resident of Anna Maria who works at the Rod & Reel Pier and also volunteers his time there. Sebring noted Malfese is known for helping children bait their hooks, cast their lines and bring in their catch while fishing from the pier. “He’s an individual that loves the city of Anna Maria and wants to help keep the magic alive that makes Anna Maria so special,” Sebring wrote.

THE SUN

SPORTS

MARCH 3, 2021

Gitt Team gets second win over Servis First Bank BY MONICA SIMPSON SPECIAL TO THE SUN

After game six in the adult co-ed soccer league, three teams go into the next week with four wins: Allied, Burton Brick & Tile and Sato Real Estate. Two middle-of-the-pack teams, The Gitt Team and Servis First Bank, met on the pitch last Thursday night, making the competition even closer. The Gitt Team’s win put them even with the Blalock Walters’ squad with 2-4-0 records. The loss for Servis First Bank put them at a 500 season with one regular season game left to play. In the win, Neil Fellowes was credited with five saves for The Gitt Team. Ben Sato had eight stops and Andrew Sullivan prevented five goals on the other side of the field for Servis First Bank. Always solid on the pitch, Greg Ross had a single goal along with teammate Ugur Durmaz. The two goals by Ross And Durmaz, just was not enough against The Gitt Team. New faces to the league put the points up for The Gitt Team. Tanner Zellmar put two shots past the Servis goalkeeper. Franco Ortiz and Owen Huffman both had solo goals for the winning team, accompanying Robbie Fellowes’ strike that led to another point on the scoreboard. Recreational sports at The Center continues with youth flag football playoff action this week. On Tuesday night, quarterfinal action took place on the gridiron with Moss Builders and Root Logix both earning byes going into the playoffs as the top ranked 8-to 10-yearold and 11-to 13-year old leagues, respectively. In the youngest competitive recreational league, Tidy MD went against Shady Lady, Cloud battled Rays Ramblings, and Coastline Contractors fought Beach Bums for a place in the semifinals. The tween team matchups put Poppos on the field with HSH, Gulf Drive Café skirmished Ugly Grouper, and Detweillers faced The Gitt Team on the large field. Moss Builders will play the winner of the matchup between Coastline Contractors and Beach Bums on Tuesday,

MONICA SIMPSON | SUN

Johnny Perusi, for Servis First Bank, takes possession of the ball against The Gitt Team’s Tanner Zellmar last Thursday night at The Center. March 9 at 6:15 p.m. The victor of the game between Gulf Drive Café and Ugly Grouper will meet Root Logix at 6 p.m. for the first championship slot. The championship games for both age group leagues will be played on March 9 at 7:45 p.m. for the 11-to 13year old league and 8 p.m. for the small field competitors.

SUN SCOREBOARD MONDAY, FEBRUARY 22 YOUTH CO-ED FLAG FOOTBALL WEEK #6 8-TO 10-YEAR OLD LEAGUE Tidy MD Rays Ramblings

20 13

Coastline Contractors Moss Builders

28 33

Shady Lady Beach Bums

8 12

11-TO 13-YEAR OLD LEAGUE Gulf Drive Ugly Grouper

(3-3-0) Café 13 12

The Gitt Team HSH

26 27

Root Logix Detweillers

20 13

TUESDAY, FEBRUARY 23 YOUTH CO-ED FLAG FOOTBALL WEEK #6 8-TO 10-YEAR OLD LEAGUE Cloud Shady Lady

(4-2-0) 13 (0-5-1) 12

Coastline Contractors Beach Bums

(3-3-0) 20 (3-3-0) 14

Tidy MD Moss Builders

(4-1-1) 27 (5-1-0) 14

11-TO 13-YEAR OLD LEAGUE

WEDNESDAY, FEBRUARY 24 ADULT CO-ED SOCCER WEEK #6 Jiffy Lube Burton Brick and Tile

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

The Gitt Team Servis First Bank

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

Sato Real Estate Blalock Walters

(4-0-2) 6 (2-4-0) 2

Allied Slim’s Place

(4-1-1) win by forfeit (0-4-2)

THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 25 ADULT CO-ED FLAG FOOTBALL WEEK #6 Ugly Grouper Beach Bums

(6-0) 33 (5-1) 14

Root Logix Poppos

(6-0-0) 12 (3-2-1) 6

Mi-Box Salty Printing

(2-4) 65 (0-6) 20

HSH Detweillers

(1-5-0) 26 (3-2-1) 52

Moss Builders Solid Rock Construction

(3-3) 13 (4-2) 35

The Gitt Team Ugly Grouper

(1-5-0) 12 (3-3-0) 18

Sandbar Slim’s Place

(2-4) 40 (2-4) 12

MARCH 3, 2021

FUN IN THE SUN

Across 1 Meat shaped for a burger 6 Consider 10 Place to unwind 13 Sound before "Bless you" 14 Food brand for Fido 15 Visa competitor, briefly 16 Like a wet day 17 "Deal me a hand" 18 __ slaw 19 Nickname for Elvis Presley 22 One rotation of Earth on its axis 23 Up until now 24 "I'll pay any price!" 28 Nod off 31 Not hers 34 "We're having __!": retail come-on 35 Jupiter's wife 36 Marriott rival Answers to 02-24-21 Crossword Puzzle.

37 Nickname for Ella Fitzgerald 40 Scarlett's plantation 41 Acme 42 "Nevermore!" bird 43 Boy in "Star Wars" prequel films 44 Currier and __: printmakers 45 Seth of "SNL" 46 Ring or stud site 48 He wrote "The 42-Across" 49 Nickname for James Brown 58 Funny Bombeck 59 A4 automaker 60 Scarlett's last name 61 Close by 62 Marvel Comics mutants 63 Post-op therapy 64 2,000 pounds 65 Ain't right? 66 Brutalizes

Down 1 Place to spread a picnic blanket 2 Smoothie berry 3 Slender 4 Half a barbecuer's pair 5 Up-and-down weight loss effort 6 Grocery section with milk 7 Red Muppet 8 "Lawrence of Arabia," e.g. 9 2000s OCD-afflicted TV sleuth 10 Often sarcastic "Nice one!" 11 __-mell: disorderly 12 Ice skater's jump 15 Property measure 20 White part of beef 21 "Science Guy" Bill 24 1990s commerce pact acronym 25 Thai or Laotian 26 He's not single 27 Film lioness 28 Fellas 29 Banded gemstone 30 Place to observe animals 32 __ circle: group of close advisers 33 Omens 35 Joke 36 "__, can you see ... " 38 Loo 39 Having an irregular design

44 "Roth" investment 45 Bovine sound 47 Not at all close by 48 Make a hard copy of 49 Fellow 50 Black-and-white treat

THE SUN

51 Uber alternative 52 Runs smoothly 53 Blissful Genesis place 54 New York stadium dismantled in 2009

55 Honolulu's island 56 Eurasia's __ Mountains 57 Chocolate dogs

THE SUN

CLASSIFIED

ANNOUNCEMENTS WANTED TO RENT - GARAGE SPACE for summer vehicle storage April thru October. AMI or close by. Contact rjreid42@gmail. com BEACH YOGA ON Wednesdays, Saturdays & Sundays at 8:30am at the end of Pine Ave by the Sandbar Restaurant by donation. www.thriveyogafit. com ANNOUNCEMENT: Who wants to play bridge outside on the patio, or in the park, social distanced and face-masked, Call Kathleen at 314-324-5921 THE BEST VOLUNTEER position on the island. The AMI Historical Museum needs docents and bread makers. Call Kathy Primeau at 989-560-6381. ROSER FOOD BANK needs donations of cash and non-perishable food, PAPER & PERSONAL HYGIENE PRODUCTS. Donations boxes are located at the Church, Moose Club, and Walgreen’s.

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

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

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

Call us today! 941-778-3986

FISHING CHARTERS

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

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

GARAGE, MOVING, RUMMAGE & YARD SALES SURPLUS SALE CITY OF ANNA MARIA The City of Anna Maria will be holding a surplus sale of goods at 402 Pine Avenue on Saturday, March 13, 2020 from 8:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m. This sale will consist of various items such as file cabinets, shelving, cots, roll away bed, and etc.

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

HOME IMPROVEMENTS

MR AJ AMI Maintenance and Repairs- All Jobs-Anna Maria Island 941-705-1793 Licensed/ Insured aj@mrajllc.com

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 GET’R DONE DRYWALL, INC Specializing in Remodels & Repairs. Island Resident for 18 years. Call Neil Cell 941-962-1194 JSAN CORPORATION Renovations Construction & Handyman Services 941-243-0995 Lic# CRC1332505 jsancorporation@gmail. com Flooring, Drywall, Painting, Repairs, Kitchen and Bathrooms, Trim & Doors. Free Estimates. Credit Cards Accepted.

ISLE TILE EXPERT INSTALLATION of floors, custom showers, backsplash, deck/lanai. Licensed and insured. References available. Call Chris at 941-3028759 please visit website: isletileservices.com

LANDSCAPING & LAWN CARE

MARCH 3, 2021

PAINTING & WALLCOVERING

PRESSURE WASHING & WINDOWS

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

AUTHORITY ONE CLEANING : Residential, Commercial, Construction, Vacation, VRBO Rentals . Also available Pressure Washing, Roof Cleaning, Paver Sealing and Windows. Call 941565-3931.

“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

REAL ESTATE HOMES & CONDOS FOR SALE GULF FRONT CONDOS Vista Grande, WestWinds– CANAL FRONT HOME Holmes Beach –DUPLEXES & MORE Island Real Estate ASK big Alan Galletto 941-232-2216 IMMACULATE WATERFRONT HOME 520 Kumquat Dr. 4BD/5BA 3928sf Coastal Beauty! Prime location on AMI. $2,750,000 Call Charles Buky Coldwell Banker 941-228-6086

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

CUSTOM PAINTING, Residential-Commercial, Interior/Exterior Professional quality work for over 40 years. Free estimates. Call Larry at 941-400-8754. References available.

HOLMES BEACH 4BR/3.5BA home for sale. 1 ½ blocks from Beach. $1,399,000. Call 724-263-6390

STRAIGHT SHOT LANDSCAPE. Specializing in Old Florida Seashell driveways and scapes. Also Rock, Mulch, & Soil. Free estimates. Call Shark Mark 941-301-6067

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

ISLAND RESIDENT. TREE/ BUSH Trimming, removal. Sweeping, blowing, weeding. Weekly, bi-monthly or monthly schedule. Pressure washing: driveways, walkways, fences, pool decks/ cages. Call Bill Witaszek 941-307-9315.

POOL SERVICES

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

LOST & FOUND FOUND SUNGLASSES at 77TH Street parking lot in Holmes Beach text 613401-2318 Contact Tim

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

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

BY OWNER: 1BR/1.5BA end unit villa w/carport at 4418 Mt. Vernon Dr. in Mt. Vernon on Sarasota Bay, a 55+ community 5 minutes from AMI gulf beaches. The villa is cheery and bright. Extensively updated, including: hardwood floors, tiled baths, breakfast bar, birch kitchen cabinets, stove w/microwave above, dishwasher, kitchen and bath fixtures, and fans. Lots of closet space, storage, outside utility room. New A/C system installed 07/20. Mt. Vernon is an active senior community with many social clubs and activities, a clubhouse, pool, sauna, tennis, shuffleboard, walking/biking paths, fishing, woodworking shop, and more. Free boat docks and kayak/ RV/trailer storage subject to availability. OFFERED AT $162,500. To View Call 727-479-4919 or 303-7257160

RENTALS: ANNUAL ANNUAL RENTALS WANTED! We have well qualified tenants for beach and mainland annual rentals, Full management or Finders fee. Call today for details. Ask for Paige DUNCAN REAL ESTATE 513-3821992. COZY COTTAGE SANDPIPER 55+ Resort. 1 ½ minute walk to Beach or Bay. 1BR/1BA. Washer/ dryer For Sale or Rent. Call 941251-4767. Leave number on machine.

RENTAL WANTED REALTOR FOR HIRE. BUYING OR SELLING on AMI? 17 years experience & USAF Veteran. Call Kelly Gitt Keller Williams Realty today 941-799-9299. 1973 MOBILE HOME: REMODELED interior 2020, new insulation, vinyl roof with transferable warranty, flooring, windows, kitchen-bath, on-demand hot water unit, exterior doors, window shades and lighting. Fully furnished - dedicated parking space $98,500. (Located the Sandpiper Resort 55+ community co-op mobile home park) No land share. Call Erik for appointment 813-6793561

SEEKING AMI ANNUAL RENTAL Call Kelly Gitt Keller Williams Realty 941799-9299

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

AMISUN.COM

www.amisun.com

MARCH 3, 2021

BUSINESS & SERVICE DIRECTORY HOME IMPROVEMENT

HOME IMPROVEMENT

THE SUN

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

PAINTING

TRANSPORTATION

RENTALS: SEASONAL & VACATION ANNA MARIA ISLAND CONDOS Large pool, beach access, free WiFi, 1&2 Bedroom $700/$800/$900 a wk. redekercondosonami.com Tim 941-704-7525

COZY COTTAGE TASTEFULLY Furnished. Close to Beach, tennis courts and Boat Ramp, Holmes Beach. Call 941-778-2919

TRANSPORTATION AMI TAXI metered-on-callcards accepted. Airport: Tampa $95, Sarasota $40, Clearwater $85, Orlando $195. Call 941-447-8372 or 941-447-8376. amitaxi4u@ gmail.com, www.amitaxi. com

ANYTIME TRANSPORTATION to all Airports, Casino, etc. Tampa $70. Sarasota $35. Pets welcome. Very dependable. Reasonable rates. Contact Jeanne. 941-779-5095

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

THE SUN

www.amisun.com

MARCH 3, 2021