Anna Maria Island Sun September 16, 2020

- Named Best Florida Newspaper In Its Class -

VOL 20 No. 49

September 16, 2020

Commissioners extend mask ordinance into 2021

The City Commission voted to extend the mandatory mask ordinance in Holmes Beach until its first meeting in January 2021.

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

JOE HENDRICKS | SUN

The Glad Tidings Church children’s building suffered significant damage.

Local relief crew delivers aid to battered Gulf city The hurricane damage in Lake Charles is widespread and extensive and the recovery will be challenging.

BY JOE HENDRICKS SUN CORRESPONDENT | jhendricks@amisun.com

LAKE CHARLES, LA. – After delivering hurricane relief supplies Wednesday morning to this city hard hit by Hurricane Laura, Swordfish Grill General Manager Bob Slicker and The Sun toured the extensive damage sustained in the surrounding neighborhoods.

Water’s Edge Gathering church volunteers Luke Cooper and Brittany Straub provided the tour of their devastated hometown. Cooper is a local musician who sings and plays guitar and keyboards. He also is a member of the Water’s Edge Gathering church band.

“Almost every musician in Lake Charles has a gig in a church because it pays well,” he said.

Straub had been working as a nurse, but she quit her job on Aug. 14 to focus on earning a degree that will allow her to become a crime scene investigator.

Before Hurricane Laura hit on Aug. 27, Cooper and Straub and Straub’s son evacuated to San Antonio with her parents.

INSIDE NEWS 4 LETTERS OUTDOORS CASTLES IN THE SAND REAL ESTATE

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JOE HENDRICKS | SUN

Water’s Edge Gathering church members Luke Cooper and Brittany Straub provided Bob Slicker and The Sun with a tour of the hurricane damage.

Their apartment building in Lake Charles survived the hurricane, but Straub and Cooper’s apartment suffered water damage and is still without power. The couple is currently staying at her parents’ home in nearby Beaumont, Texas.

SEE TOUR, PAGE 11

HOLMES BEACH – After being extended by Mayor Judy Titsworth on a weekly basis three times, commissioners have voted unanimously to extend the mandatory face mask ordinance for a little longer – until their first meeting in January 2021.

The city’s initial ordinance requiring anyone in a Holmes Beach business or public building to wear a face mask, unless exempt by a health condition or age, was adopted by commissioners June 25 and expired on Aug. 25. Since the expiration, Mayor Titsworth has been extending the ordinance for seven days at a time under a mayoral directive allowed by the city- and state-declared states of emergency. Currently, the Florida state of emergency, extended by Gov. Ron DeSantis, is set to expire in early November, though city attorney Patricia Petruff said she expects the state of emergency to be extended again due to the COVID-19 pandemic.

Commissioners agreed to take the burden of extending the mask mandate off the mayor’s shoulders and extend it for a period longer than seven days. After discussing several different end date options, they settled on the end of the year, amending the end date to their first meeting in January. The decision was made to extend it into 2021 to avoid any potential lapses in the mask regulations in case the mask mandate needs to be extended again due to the threat of the coronavirus.

Commissioner Terry Schaefer said if the threat of the virus has receded prior to the expiration of the ordinance, commissioners can vote to rescind the mask mandate.

Holmes Beach Police Chief Bill Tokajer said the mask mandate has been working well and that

See related story on Page 4.

LEARN all about beachfront weddings in The Sun’s AMI Wedding Guide. 20

SEE MASK, PAGE 6

BARS GET state’s ‘official’ OK to

reopen for business. 3 ANNA MARIA Elementary

School remains free of COVID-19. 8

CROSSWORD 29

Anna Maria Island, Florida

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SEPTEMBER 16, 2020

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SEPTEMBER 16, 2020

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State’s reopening order of little consequence to Island bars Most of Anna Maria Island'S stand-alone bars reopened in mid to-late July.

BY JOE HENDRICKS SUN CORRESPONDENT | jhendricks@amisun.com

ANNA MARIA ISLAND – The Florida Department of Business and Professional Regulation’s (DBPR) decision to allow Florida bars to reopen at 50% capacity Monday is not expected to have an impact on Anna Maria Island.

That's because five of the Island’s six stand-alone bars are already open and have been for quite some time.

On Sept. 10, DBPR Secretary Halsey Beshears issued Executive Order 2020-10, which repeals the bar restrictions he set forth in EO 2020-09 on June 26.

No longer in effect, Beshears’ June 26 order said, “All vendors licensed to sell alcoholic beverages for consumption on the premises who derive more than 50% of gross revenue from such sales shall suspend sales for consumption on premises.

Vendors also licensed as public food service establishments or restaurants may continue to operate for on-premise consumption of food and beverages at tables so long as these vendors derive 50% or less of gross revenue from the sale of alcoholic beverages for on-premises consumption.”

Beshears issued his June order after the number of individuals testing positive for COVID-19 increased significantly, especially among younger individuals.

“Some of these cases involving younger individuals are suspected to have originated from visits to bars, pubs or nightclubs,” his order said.

On July 1, Beshears amended EO 202009 and allowed bars with food licenses to resume the sale of alcohol for on-site consumption.

Beshears’ actions were preceded by Gov. Ron DeSantis’ March 17 executive order that prohibited bars from selling alcohol for on-site consumption. On June 5, DeSantis allowed bars to reopen at 50% capacity, but that allowance ended with his blessing when Beshears issued his own executive order in June.

ISLAND BAR OPENINGS

On July 16, Anchor Inn owners Darla and Bobby Tingler figured out a way to open their Holmes Beach bar at 50% capacity under their existing liquor license.

“With our 4COP license we have a prepacked food license. That means we can serve any type of pre-packaged food. This was an existing part of our license that we weren’t aware of until this morning. We didn’t have to go get a food license,” Darla Tingler said that night.

JOE HENDRICKS | SUN

Coop, Weezie, Darla Tingler and Debi and Troy Thompson were among those on hand when the Anchor Inn reopened on July 16.

Tommy Knockers in Bradenton Beach opened in a similar fashion later that day, followed later by the Drift In and the Sports Lounge in Bradenton Beach and Dcoy Ducks in Holmes Beach.

The Tinglers later obtained a DBPRissued food license that fully secured their ability to operate at 50% capacity.

On Aug. 4, DBPR shut down the Drift In for not having a food license – an enforcement action taken in response to an anonymous complaint.

On Aug. 14, the Drift In reopened for the third time since the pandemic began, this time with a DBPR-issued food license.

When contacted Sunday and asked about Beshears’ latest order, Darla Tingler said, “We’re thankful the other bars that played

the loophole are now legal and won’t be shut down. But everyone still had to play by the rules and capacity limits.”

Drift In manager Doreen Flynn felt the same and said, “I’m waiting for him to say restaurants can be increased to 75% so I can put 12 more barstools back in our bar.”

At 50% capacity, The Drift In is operating with 28 indoor seats and a doorman who monitors capacity and ensures masks are worn when walking around or dancing inside the establishment.

Bartender Courtney McGough said Beshears’ latest order has no impact on the Sports Lounge: “We’ve been open. We enforced strict rules and followed them during every shift. We always stuck to 50% capacity, which for us is 30 people. We did not apply for a hospitality/restaurant license.”

Tommy Knockers bartender Courtney Call said, “We have been open with readyto-eat foods and have been doing our best to keep to rules. We’re just hoping everything gets back to normal soon.”

Dcoy Ducks general manager Richie Brown did not respond to The Sun’s request for comment.

According to its website, The Doctor’s Office in Holmes Beach remains closed but is operating a “pop-up clinic” with a limited classic cocktail menu at its nearby sister establishment, Eat Here.

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ISLAND NEWS

IN BRIEF

Help clean up local beaches Keep Manatee Beautiful is participating in the International Coastal Cleanup, which this year is holding two different events on Anna Maria Island. On Saturday, Sept. 19 at 9 a.m., volunteers can come out to Coquina Beach in Bradenton Beach and help clear trash and debris from the Island’s beaches.

The cleanup continues until 11 a.m. and all volunteers receive a mask, gloves, picker and trash bag. Hand sanitizer and cleaning supplies will be provided for all equipment.

For volunteers who can’t make it to the Coquina Beach cleanup, there’s another opportunity to help out from 9 to 11 a.m. on Saturday, Oct. 10 at Manatee Beach in Holmes Beach. For more information, contact Jennifer Hoffman at keep@manateebeautiful.com.

Center releases corrected end-of-year financials The Center of Anna Maria Island ended its 2019-20 fiscal year July 31 in a better financial position than previously reported.

Executive Director Chris Culhane released a corrected end of year financial report which shows the nonprofit ended the year about $9,800 better than initially reported. Rather than ending the year with a net income loss of $45,501, The Center now reports ending the year with a net income loss of $35,701 after all income and expenses were accounted for. The change came in the nonprofit’s fundraising revenue. Previously, fundraising revenue was reported at $23,416 with $17,127 in direct costs, leaving The Center with $6,289 in positive income in that cost center. The updated financial report received

by The Sun now shows fundraising income at $33,216. With the direct costs still reported at $17,127, that left the nonprofit with $16,089 in positive income from fundraising.

Volunteers needed for parks committee The city of Holmes Beach is looking for two volunteers to join the city’s Parks and Beautification Committee. Members serve two-year terms and meet on the first Wednesday of the month at 10 a.m. from October through May. The committee oversees the maintenance of the city’s greenspace and parks, also serving as an advisory committee to the Holmes Beach city commission.

To apply, contact the city clerk’s office at 941-708-5800 ext. 221 or email deputyclerk@ holmesbeachfl.org. All applications must be submitted by Sept. 30.

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SEPTEMBER 16, 2020

Swordfish Grill delivers hurricane relief supplies

Hurricane relief supplies received from Cortez and elsewhere were disbursed to Lake Charles residents in 47 minutes Friday afternoon.

BY JOE HENDRICKS SUN CORRESPONDENT | jhendricks@amisun.com

CORTEZ – Swordfish Grill managers Tom Polch, Adam Sears and Bob Slicker delivered a U-Haul trailer filled with donated hurricane relief supplies to the Water’s Edge Gathering church in Lake Charles, Louisiana last Wednesday morning.

Donated by community members and business owners, the donated supplies were collected at the Swordfish Grill in Cortez and The Blessing Bags Project headquarters in Bradenton.

In Polch’s 2006 Ford 150 diesel pickup, the trio departed from the Swordfish Grill shortly after 4 p.m. on Tuesday, Sept. 8 with a cooler full of energy drinks and water and more than enough snacks to make it to west Louisiana. A reporter from The Sun accompanied them on the 53-hour road trip that covered more than 1,700 miles and concluded in Cortez shortly after 9 p.m. on Thursday evening.

Polch and Sears shared the driving duties, and when not driving, Sears helped navigate using the Waze phone app that provides directions and real-time traffic information. Riding shotgun most of the time, Slicker – the Swordfish Grill’s general manager – served as mission leader, co-navigator and travelogue commentator.

At 7:19 p.m. Tuesday evening, Sears proclaimed, “This is going to be a very uneventful trip. We’re in and we’re out.”

At 1:50 a.m. Wednesday, Sears said, “I think today is our lucky day.”

Those predictions held true during the westward leg of the trip but would be tested during the return trip from Lake Charles.

After driving all night, the group stopped for breakfast just before daybreak Wednesday morning at a Waffle House in Lafayette. The

JOE HENDRICKS | SUN

This billboard along I-10 was a sign of the hurricane damage to come. goal was to pull into the uncertain conditions awaiting in Lake Charles after the sun came up.

Twenty-two miles outside of Lake Charles, the first visible signs of hurricane damage appeared along I-10 in the form of tattered and twisted billboards and small trees bent over or snapped off completely by Hurricane Laura’s devastating winds on Thursday, Aug. 27.

As Lake Charles drew closer, the damage got worse and included tipped over trailers, damaged or destroyed structures, larger fallen trees and toppled power lines.

SUPPLIES DELIVERED

Shortly after 8 a.m., Polch pulled the truck and trailer into the Water’s Edge Gathering church parking lot. The large metal building was still standing and mostly intact despite roof damage, water damage and the loss of electricity.

Church volunteer Katy Rozas arrived a short time later, accompanied by her boyfriend and fellow volunteer Jonathan Wilson. The supplies were unloaded and carried into the darkened church auditorium now serving as a makeshift warehouse and staging area.

The donated supplies from Cortez included coolers filled with cleaning supplies, personal hygiene products, lighter fluid, several bags of charcoal, tents, tarps, flashlights, gloves, a used

chainsaw, a used hedge trimmer, stuffed animals, pillows, three large plastic barrels that could be used as rain barrels and more.

Slicker also delivered more than $1,500 in donated Walmart gift cards to be used at the nearby Walmart on I-10 that has power and remains operational.

Wednesday’s delivery was preceded by a truckload of donated supplies collected by the Swordfish Grill and The Blessings Bags Project that were delivered to the church Sunday afternoon by Joe Cadmus. The bed of Cadmus’ flatbed truck was filled with charcoal grills, tents, tarps, cleaning supplies and more.

Water’s Edge received additional supplies from other donors in Florida, Texas, Wisconsin and beyond.

While giving a tour of the church, Rozas noted normal church activities include a homeless ministry and a food pantry.

“This is probably the only time this has been empty,” she said of the dark and damp food pantry that was still drying out.

Rozas and Wilson rode out the storm in Lake Charles.

“The sound was terrifying. We lost some shingles, some awning, an entire fence, some shutters, some gutters and my garage door, but we lived. I still have a sound SEE RELIEF, PAGE 23

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SEPTEMBER 16, 2020

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Settlement proposed in Cortez Bridge lawsuit The settlement offer pertains to a federal lawsuit regarding the replacement of the Cortez Bridge.

BY JOE HENDRICKS SUN CORRESPONDENT | jhendricks@amsun.com

CORTEZ – The plaintiffs in a federal lawsuit challenging the Florida Department of Transportation’s (FDOT) decision to replace the Cortez Bridge drawbridge with a higher, fixed-span bridge have proposed a settlement agreement.

Joe McClash, Joe Kane, Linda Molto and Jane von Hahmann are the plaintiffs in the lawsuit that names FDOT, its secretary, Kevin J. Thibault, the U.S. Department of Transportation and Federal Highway Administration (FHA) administrator Nicole R. Nason as defendants.

The plaintiffs offer to refrain from challenging FDOT’s replacement of the bridge if FDOT builds a 35-foot bascule drawbridge instead of its proposed 65-foot, fixed-span bridge, according to a

press release McClash distributed last week.

FDOT claims it made its bridge decision while acting on behalf of the FHA and in accordance with a memorandum of understanding (MOU) between the two agencies.

According to a press release McClash distributed last week, “Plaintiffs have discussed a settlement offer proposed herein and would agree collectively to the settlement and offer the settlement to resolve the issues identified in the complaint and refrain from any further challenges.”

The proposed settlement offer notes the plaintiffs are concerned a fixed-span bridge would negatively impact the Cortez community in terms of noise, safety, accessibility and vessel restrictions.

“We still have the appeal we’re waiting on. It hasn’t been decided if they have to give us that administrative hearing at the state level so we’re carrying out with the federal process that’s a more formal and legal process,” McClash said.

“FDOT has to get together all the administrative records and

other stuff they did to reach their decision build a fixed-span bridge.

They’ve indicated that once they get those records, they’d be willing to sit down with us. But we want people to know there’s a settlement offer on the table to FDOT,” he said. “When you look at the numbers, more than 60% of the people did not support the decision.”

“The vast majority of people wanted a lower new bridge or to rehabilitate the existing bridge,” von Hahmann said, adding that a vessel whose height exceeds 65 feet would not be able to pass under the fixed-span bridge.

“With the 35-foot bridge, everybody can pass through it because you can raise the bridge,” she said.

As of Monday, the plaintiffs had not received a formal response to their settlement offer and no future mediation sessions or meetings had been scheduled with FDOT. The lawsuit is filed in the Tampa division of the U.S. District Court for the Middle District of Florida.

The Cortez Bridge proposal specifics “Plaintiffs offer the following: 1. “Parties will agree that regardless of the decision reached in the appeal currently awaiting a decision within the Second DCA, the settlement offer if agreed to would be: • If in the favor of the plaintiffs, this settlement would be enforceable and all parties would execute any documents to create a settlement under Chapter 120 or another provision of Florida Statutes.

• If in favor of the FDOT, the federal settlement would be binding.

2. “The settlement offer is as follows: • “Plaintiffs would be granted standing to provide a remedy for their claims.

• “Plaintiffs would not challenge any action for replacing the bridge if consistent with the terms of the settlement.

• “Defendants would agree that the LDCA (Location and Design Concept Acceptance) has several viable options that are within the options FDOT assumed under the MOU, consistent with requirements

contained in the MOU and federal rules.

• “The 65-foot fixed bridge is but one option, compared to the 35-foot bascule (draw) bridge, a bridge concept that was subject to a complaint filed by plaintiffs.

• “The 35-foot bascule (draw) bridge would provide the relief plaintiffs seek and would no longer object to the replacement bridge or bring a subsequent challenge to any of the permits required for construction.

• “The FDOT will agree to rescind the LDCA for a 65-foot fixed bridge and replace the action with a LDCA for 35-foot bascule bridge; a bridge that also is consistent with the requirements under the MOU and prepare and provide approval of any documents consistent with the requirements for the LDCA. • “FDOT would agree to defend the action of the LDCA for 35-foot bascule bridge if a future challenge is made,” the settlement offer proposed.

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OPINION

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

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SEPTEMBER 16, 2020

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 Pat Copeland Steve Borggren Monica Simpson

LETTERS TO THE EDITOR

Time to vote Early voting is fast approaching. I recommend Jayne Christenson and Kim Rash for Holmes Beach City Commission. Kim and Jayne did not just suddenly appear for this election.

They have attended and contributed to commission meetings for years.

They are superbly well-informed on diverse Holmes Beach issues.

“Kentucky Kim” has served his community in highly visible ways, traveling the streets of Holmes Beach, listening, and finding solutions to his neighbors’ problems.

Selflessly, Kim has donated materials, his time and his talents to install, to build, to maintain, to plant, even to clean up our beaches. As a commissioner, Kim fearlessly advocated for the interests of residents while considering the needs of all who

live, work and play in Holmes Beach. Kim will continue to use his cooperative, common sense approach in seeking well-researched answers to such issues as funding, traffic, home rule, code compliance and quality of life.

In addition to managing her career, family responsibilities and volunteer activities, Jayne served on the Planning Commission and the Anna Maria Island Parking/Congestion Committee. Jayne brings intelligence, objectivity, enthusiasm, energy, and business acumen to the commission. Jayne has developed keen insights into ways Holmes Beach government could be more accountable and transparent to its citizens. Jayne is a tireless crusader for residents.

Being a commissioner requires more than sitting on the dais twice a month. You must be a knowledgeable advocate for what is best for the

city of Holmes Beach - its present and its future. Holmes Beach needs Kim and Jayne.

Nancy R. Deal Holmes Beach

Drop us a line

We want to hear from you!

Whether you have an opinion, a complaint or a compliment, we want you to have your say. You can send us a letter to the editor by email at news@amisun.com or directly to the publisher at mfield@amisun.com.

Or you can mail us a letter the oldfashioned way 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 live.

Personal attacks and foul language will not be printed. The Sun reserves the right to edit letters for length or content.

MASK: Ordinance extended into 2021 FROM PAGE 1

enforcement also has gone well with the city’s business owners supporting the measure. He added that his officers are doing spot checks at local businesses to ensure compliance and that only one issue has arisen where a business manager called the department because a patron refused to

wear a mask while inside. Tokajer said the individual was cited for trespassing and removed from the property.

Commissioner Pat Morton said he felt the ordinance was working well to help protect both visitors and residents from the virus’ spread. Commission candidate Jayne Christenson agreed, adding

that she thinks it’s a good ordinance.

Because the ordinance was enacted to address a declared emergency it does not have to have a second reading or vote, which is normally required for ordinance approval in Holmes Beach.

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SEPTEMBER 16, 2020

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.

Sept. 21, 2 p.m. – Planning and Zoning board meeting Sept. 24, 6 p.m. – Budget hearing and City Commission regular meeting

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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.

Sept. 17, noon – City Commission meeting Sept. 22, 9:15 a.m. – City Commission emergency special meeting Sept. 29, 9:15 a.m. – City Commission emergency special meeting

HOLMES BEACH

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Sept. 16, 10 a.m. – Code Compliance special magistrate hearing Sept. 22, 6 p.m. – City Commission budget hearing and meeting with work session to follow

ISLAND-WIDE

Sept. 23, 2 p.m. – Coalition of Barrier Island Elected Officials meeting, Anna Maria City Hall

MARKYOUR CALENDAR September 16 - September 29 The Island Branch Library is open at 40% capacity. Please wear a face mask/ covering.

Tingley Memorial Library is closed.

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 and tennis courts are open.

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

Local beaches are open.

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

SATURDAY

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

Saturday mornings at the NEST, Robinson Preserve Mosaic Nest, 840 Ninth Ave. N.W., Bradenton, 9 a.m. to noon.

Face masks required.

SEPT. 19

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SUNDAY SEPT. 20

Rise and Shine Power Flow Yoga, Robinson Preserve Mosaic Nest, 840 Ninth Ave. N.W., Bradenton 10:30 a.m. to 11:45 a.m., $10 fee payable online or by cash at the door. Bring your own yoga mat. Register at https://parks.mymanatee.org/wbwsc/webtrac.wsc/search. html?primarycode=110006 or call 941742-5923 ext. 6042 for more information.

THURSDAY SEPT. 24

AMI Chamber of Commerce September member networking event, Continental Drifter meeting room, Compass Hotel

by Margaritaville, 12324 Manatee Ave. W., Bradenton, $5 for members or $10 for non-members. Space is limited to 40 attendees. Reserve at info@amichamber.org or 941-778-1541

SATURDAY SEPT. 26

Saturday mornings at the NEST, Robinson Preserve Mosaic Nest, 840 Ninth Ave. N.W., Bradenton, 9 a.m. to noon.

Face masks required.

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SEPTEMBER 16, 2020

Anna Maria Elementary remains COVID-free A total of 54 COVID-19 cases were reported in Manatee County schools as of Monday.

BY JOE HENDRICKS SUN CORRESPONDENT | jhendricks@amisun.com

HOLMES BEACH – As of Monday, Anna Maria Elementary school had no reported COVID-19 cases among students, teachers or staff members four weeks into the new school year that began Aug. 17.

According to the new School District of Manatee County COVID-19 Cases Dashboard posted at the school district website, www. manateeschools.net, 54 COVID-19 cases have been reported in the school district since Aug. 17, including four reported cases at Manatee High School.

Two new cases were reported by the school district last week. The school district dashboard does not indicate if the positive cases are teachers, students or staff members.

ISLAND CASES

There have been 27 positive COVID-19 cases reported in Bradenton Beach since March, with no new cases reported recently, according to the Sept. 14 daily data report posted at the Florida Division of Emergency Management website.

To date, 24 positive cases have been reported in Holmes Beach, four positive cases have been reported in Anna Maria and four positive cases have been reported in Cortez.

There have been 7,379 total positive cases in Bradenton and 10,817 reported positive cases in Manatee County as of Monday.

According to the Florida Department of Health COVID-19 Data Dashboard, 771 COVID-positive patients had been hospitalized in Manatee County as of Monday and there had been 275 reported COVID-related deaths in the county.

The cumulative percent positive of all those tested in Manatee County to date was 10.8% as of Monday and the previous day percent positive was 4.32%.

JOE HENDRICKS | SUN

Anna Maria Elementary has reported no COVID-19 cases since the school year began.

The student body at Anna Maria Elementary school experienced no positive COVID-19 cases during the first month of classes.

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SEPTEMBER 16, 2020

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TOUR: Lake Charles hurricane damage FROM PAGE 1

In Lake Charles, water service had been restored in many areas, but electricity remains scarce.

“There’s not a neighborhood that’s gone untouched in Lake Charles. This is a lower-income area and it got hit brutally. We’re 30 miles inland. The further south you get, the worse it gets,” Cooper said, noting the small coastal city of Cameron was essentially demolished by the hurricane and storm surge.

“Most of the damage happened in the poorer neighborhoods and the older homes got hit the hardest. Unfortunately, we’re finding out that there’s quite a few people that didn’t have home insurance, so they’re going to be at the mercy of FEMA – and so far, that’s not been very much help. We’re afraid quite a few people are going to have to leave with whatever they get.

Our poorer community members don’t have much of a choice. A lot of them rebuilt after Hurricane Rita 15 years ago and to rebuild again may be impossible,” Cooper said.

“It’s also a lot of older people and a lot of vets on social security and disability, so rebuilding this neighborhood is going to be hard. They have money to relocate, not to rebuild,” Straub said.

Cooper said he’s heard of homeowners being offered only $10,000 in FEMA funds, but a local attorney’s office has reached out and offered its assistance.

“They’ve been incredibly helpful with the appeals process for FEMA – and what we’re empowered to do and how we can hold everybody’s feet to the fire,” Cooper said.

Most homes in the area toured on Sept. 9 had at least one tarp on the roof and many were covered with multiple tarps, including some that were profes-

JOE HENDRICKS | SUN

The Lake Charles business community is trying to recover from the one-two punch of COVID-19 and Hurricane Laura. sionally installed and included spraypainted ID numbers.

“That’s the Army Corps of Engineers.

They started going to the houses of the people who signed up for help,” Cooper said.

While approaching the Tommasi Mobile Village, Straub pointed to the wire fence across the street and said, “The fence was filled with all the skirting and siding from the trailers.”

Straub also noted most of the power poles at the far end of that field were tilted to the left.

“I don’t think one place looks habitable,” Slicker said of the damage that included a fifth-wheel trailer turned on its side and significant damage to many mobile homes.

Regarding the local schools, Straub said, “Ninety-seven percent of all the schools in the school district have severe damage. They haven’t even started yet. With COVID, they were figuring out the virtual learning or the in-person

learning, and then this hit. They were supposed to start the 24th and then this happened.”

When passing a large church building that was missing its second story wall, Straub said that was the Glad Tidings church building used for Sunday school and other youth education purposes.

Regarding the local churches’ role in the recovery efforts, Cooper said, “We have a bunch of churches that are doing all they can, but a lot of churches were completely devastated. Trinity Baptist fared pretty well. They have a supply delivery and hot food every day. We’ve got people fixing our facility right now so we can do the same.

We normally have a food pantry every week, but for the time being it’s a liability issue having people come into a potentially moldy facility.”

Cooper said the Biolab chemical manufacturing plant in Lake Charles caught fire after the hurricane passed

and leaked chlorine gas. Straub said a casino boat broke free and rammed a bridge near the scene of the fire and those two incidents resulted in the I-10 bridge being closed for several days.

Cooper said Hurricane Laura may have inadvertently resolved a debate regarding a Confederate statue.

“Most of the community spoke out in favor of removing it. Lake Charles is 52% African American, but some of the votes don’t go that way. The city council voted to keep the statue regardless of the public outcry and then Laura came and destroyed it. They picked it up the next day,” Cooper said.

Straub said Lake Charles residents are doing their best under trying circumstances.

“Lake Charles has fared well. There hasn’t been a whole lot of crime. This city is really special when things like this happen. It’s really tight-knit.

There’s been some looting, but it’s nothing compared to previous storms,” she said.

Straub said a 14-year-old girl in nearby Leesville was killed by a fallen tree during the storm. Now the concern is about people dying due to the improper use of generators. According to NPR, five people in one Lake Charles home died of carbon monoxide poisoning after fumes from a generator running in the garage entered the home through an open or partially open door.

JOBS AND THE ECONOMY

“The port and the oil and gas industries are huge here. Most of our people are working-class people and now none of us have jobs. Our small businesses were already crippled because of COVID-19,” Cooper said.

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THE SUN

SEPTEMBER 16, 2020

TOUR: Lake Charles hurricane damage FROM PAGE 11

“The jobs are gone. People are coming to town to work on the cleanup or local people are hiring on with cleanup crews. That’s kind of what we’ve got right now,” Straub added.

Cooper said he’s only aware of a handful of businesses that are currently open, including the Walmart store.

Straub was in the Air Force and was not living in Lake Charles when Hurricane Rita hit in 2005. Cooper endured Hurricane Rita and the recovery and rebuilding processes that followed.

“You were here in 2005 and you don’t want to leave?” Slicker asked.

“I do now. I don’t want to do this again. I want to clean up and I want to help, but I don’t want the stress of this again. It’s too much,” Cooper said.

“I don’t want to leave, but we’ve talked about relocating anyway. Is now the time? There’s definitely going to be turnover,” Straub said.

“We’re looking at central Texas,” Cooper said.

“Austin,” Straub added.

“Dallas or Austin,” Cooper said.

Government response “Our mayor, Nic Hunter, is doing a great job. He’s boots on the ground, bringing generators to old people who didn’t want to evacuate. He’s making sure they get their medicine and stuff like that,” Cooper said.

“Lafayette is the closest city to here and they refused refugees from Lake Charles because they were afraid of ‘rabble-rousers’ coming in and disturbing the peace. Their churches were opening their doors to accommodate the displaced people and they were told they couldn’t do that. Josh Guillory is their mayor-president. He’s terrified of ANTIFA invading,” Cooper said.

According to The Acadiana Advocate newspaper, Guillory’s chief administrative officer distributed an email urging shelter providers to pause any action to establish shelters.

Concerns about outside agitators coming to Lafayette stemmed in part from tensions already being high in that city due to ongoing protests pertaining to a recent police shooting. The Washington Post picked up on The Acadiana Advocate’s reporting on the refugee shelter story.

When asked about Gov. John Bel Edwards’ statewide relief and recovery efforts, Straub said, “He said we dodged a bullet. He was referring to us not getting the storm surge that was predicted. We did dodge a bullet by not getting the storm surge, but when people heard that they assumed we dodged a bullet altogether and that’s hurt us. We’re suffering for it.”

JOE HENDRICKS | SUN

City officials and city residents hope the local recovery efforts won’t be forgotten or overlooked.

JOE HENDRICKS | SUN

Hurricane Laura tipped this fifth-wheel trailer on its side in the Tommasi Mobile Village.

Cooper said, “I think he did great with COVID, but he underplayed this and it affected how people carried the story.”

MEDIA AND SOCIAL MEDIA

Straub said a local TV station suffered significant damage.

“Their whole tower collapsed,” Straub said.

“Our mayor said he’s worried that because this is a smaller community, about 80,000 people, people are going to turn a blind eye and it will be forgotten,” Cooper said of the national media’s brief coverage of the hurricane damage in Lake Charles.

Slicker noted Lake Charles is the state’s fifth-largest city.

“We have people that are trying to be as vocal as they can to raise awareness of the situation. What we’ve found, especially from the people in Florida, is that anybody that’s aware of the level of destruction that occurred really cares. I’m not worried about people caring, I’m worried about people not being aware of our

situation. Florida has come through strong and we thank you so much,” Cooper said.

The national media may be gone, but social media platforms are being used to raise awareness of the ongoing struggles in Lake Charles.

Cooper said the Water’s Edge church received a truckload of supplies earlier in the week as a result of a TikTok video Lake Charles resident Tara Parks shared online.

“That’s gotten a lot of attention. She made a TikTok to explain what it’s like to be on the ground living with two children in a tent and not knowing when you’re going to get water or electricity again. So, we’ve seen traction with social media moving the needle. It’s such an asset,” Cooper said.

Cooper said his friends who stayed for the hurricane used and continue to use Facebook and other social media platforms to find out where food, water, ice and other supplies can be found.

www.amisun.com

SEPTEMBER 16, 2020

THE SUN

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Visitors going out with a bang in H.B.

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

HOLMES BEACH – Police Chief Bill Tokajer said that visitors to the city are leaving behind something unusual this year – their firearms.

During the Sept. 10 commission meeting, he said that officers have confiscated six firearms over the past few weeks that have been left by visitors on vacation in Holmes Beach.

On Sept. 6, Tokajer said his officers responded to a call and confiscated an AR-15 that a male visitor had brought with him on vacation, took outside and fired nine rounds into the air in a residential neighborhood. The man is Anthony Caudill Jr. of Louisville, Kentucky. According to police reports, Caudill said that he stepped outside of his rental apartment on Avenue E to fire rounds in the air from the assault rifle in celebration of his engagement. HBPD officers arrested Caudill, charging him with discharging a firearm in public or on a residential property and using a firearm under the influence of alcohol. No one was injured in the incident.

“Not only are people bringing a lot of firearms with them but they haven’t used the common sense of actually taking them out of the room when they leave their vacation rental home or apartment/condo, whatever they’re renting,” Tokajer said.

He added that his department has adopted a hardline policy on the matter. Tokajer said that officers will not be shipping the firearms back to their owners. Instead, the owner will have to return to Holmes Beach to reclaim the firearm after officers have done an extensive state and federal search to make sure the gun was not used in conjunction with a crime and that the owner is allowed to own the firearm. Anyone trying to claim a firearm from the department will also need to show identification when appearing in person to obtain the gun.

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THE SUN

Duncan Seawall to do dock repairs, boat lift installation The grant-funded boat lift installation project must be completed by Sept. 30

BY JOE HENDRICKS SUN CORRESPONDENT | jhendricks@amisun.com

BRADENTON BEACH – Duncan Seawall, Dock & Boat Lift has been authorized to repair and position the existing floating dock before installing a new boat lift for the Bradenton Beach Police Department.

During an emergency Community Redevelopment Agency (CRA) meeting Monday morning, CRA Chair Ralph Cole said the Gibsonton-based Hecker Construction officials said the company is unable to get the work done in the timeframe needed by the CRA to complete the grant-funded installation of the boat lift.

“They couldn’t do it until October. We need this done right away,” Cole said.

“I want to thank Duncan for stepping in and doing this. This has gone on long enough and we just need to get it across the finish line.”

During the CRA’s previous meeting Sept. 2, City Attorney Ricinda Perry and Lt. John Cosby said the boat lift installation project must be completed

by Sept. 30 in order to utilize a $50,000 West Coast Inland Navigation Grant (WCIND) approved by Manatee County commissioners in May 2017.

Because the boat lift must be con-

Talk about a quick response.”

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Ricinda Perry, City Attorney nected to the west end of the floating dock, the lift cannot be installed until the floating dock is repaired and repositioned approximately eight feet to the east, toward the T-end of the Bridge Street Pier.

The CRA members previously authorized Hecker to complete the dock repairs and repositioning for $11,600.

That authorization was reconfirmed at the Sept. 2 meeting at which Duncan was authorized to install a 10,000 lb. capacity boat lift at an approximate cost of $37,813 after Hecker completed its work.

During Monday’s meeting, Perry read aloud a written statement regarding Duncan’s offer to assist the CRA and complete both projects before the boat life grant expires.

“Chairman Cole has dedicated significant time trying to work with Hecker and finalize the installation of the floating dock to no avail. It has been clear that Hecker is not in a position to accomplish this goal in a timely fashion.

SEE DOCK, PAGE 19

www.amisun.com

SEPTEMBER 16, 2020

THE SUN

15

City Pier grill and bait shop lease on track The mayor anticipates presenting the city commission with a lease proposal on Thursday.

BY JOE HENDRICKS SUN CORRESPONDENT | jhendricks@amisun.com

ANNA MARIA – Mayor Dan Murphy says the City Pier grill and bait shop lease negotiations are going well with Brian Seymour and his partners, Vic Mattay and Nick Graham.

On Thursday, Sept. 10, Murphy told the city commission he’s still on track to present them with a proposed lease contract on Thursday, Sept. 24. Next Thursday’s commission meeting will begin immediately after the conclusion of the 6 p.m. final budget hearing.

During last week’s commission meeting, Murphy said he and Commissioner Jon Crane had their first fact-finding meeting earlier that week and planned to have their second meeting the following day.

“I think we’re on target, and I

committed to coming back to you with a contract on the 24th. It looks pretty good. We made some significant progress in terms of getting organized. The next major step is for the city attorney to provide a draft of a contract.”

City Attorney Becky Vose told the mayor and commission she’d been working on the lease contract for three days and would finish it that night and send it to Murphy.

Murphy said he and Crane would look over the contract and send it to Seymour and his partners to review.

“And then, we can hopefully come to some agreement. We’re on track for the 24th,” Murphy said.

Crane said he echoed the mayor’s comments.

“I found the group, the three of them, to be very cooperative, very helpful. The questions they asked of us were astute and few, and they really seemed like they’re ready to get going and put out a good product out there. I was reviewing their menu again today and my mouth started watering. It was a good meeting,” Crane said.

JOE HENDRICKS SUN

If all goes according to plans, the City Pier grill and bait shop will be open before Thanksgiving.

On Tuesday, Sept. 1, the city commission deemed the group consisting of Seymour, Mattay and Graham its top choice to operate the City Pier grill and bait shop.

Seymour’s group proposed paying $6,000 per month in rent, with an annual 2.5% rent increase.

The trio anticipates spending an additional $41,350 to complete the interior buildout of the city-owned building.

Seymour owns and operates the Anna Maria General Store & Deli in leased space on Pine Avenue.

Mattay owns Dips Ice Cream, and shares space inside the general store. Graham manages Dips and he and his brother, Aaron, own and operate Graham Slam fishing charters in Cortez.

Seymour, Mattay and Graham are equal partners in the Pine Avenue Bait & Tackle store adja-

cent to the general store and are forming a similar partnership for their anticipated pier-based business operations. Seymour recently told The Sun he hopes to open the grill and bait shop before Thanksgiving.

The commission favored the Seymour group’s proposal over the proposal submitted

by FP Growth Partners, who proposed paying $5,500 per month in initial base rent or 6% of gross revenues, whichever was higher. FP Growth Partners also offered to take the bait shop building as is and complete the interior buildout at no additional expense to the city. Murphy said that could save the city $50,000 to $75,000 in upfront costs.

FP Growth Partners owns and operates multiple Poppo’s Taquerias, including the Pine Avenue location.

The city currently has no plans to seek a tenant to operate a fullservice restaurant in the larger of the two City Pier buildings.

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SEPTEMBER 16, 2020

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SEPTEMBER 16, 2020

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THE SUN

OUTDOORS

SEPTEMBER 16, 2020

New horizons in trolling motor technology Reel Time RUSTY CHINNIS

I

f there’s one thing I learned over the years it’s that the more “stuff ” you put on a boat the more you have to deal with. Having said that, there are a few things I have found worth the effort. Chief among those is a trolling motor. Recent advances in technology have made the problems I encountered in the past less of a problem.

I’m an inshore angler most of the time, only venturing into the Gulf seasonally in pursuit of tarpon, little tunny, cobia, tripletail and Spanish mackerel. While l prefer to use my push pole most of the time, there are times the trolling motor is “indispensable.” Chief among them are the times I fish alone and use the trolling motor to set myself up for drifts or to work a shoreline. Then there are the times when the trolling motor gives me a distinct advantage over anchoring or drifting when targeting tripletail on crab buoys or fishing lights in the pre-dawn hours.

My first trolling motors were analog and operated with air switches.

I remember them as being more trouble than they were worth.

Fortunately, advances in technology brought us digital motors that were far more reliable and coatings that make them far more saltwater resistant.

RUSTY CHINNIS | SUN

Robert Schroeder, aka "The Trolling Motor Guy," operates a Minn Kota authorized service center in Bradenton.

Today, technology continues to advance at a dizzying pace and trolling motors and anglers are reaping the rewards. The advances are particularly notable for big boat owners.

While there are two major brands available to anglers, this article centers on Minn Kota, the motor I use and I think has made the biggest strides for saltwater anglers.

All Minn Kota saltwater models have coated lower units. The lower unit is grit-blasted, aluminum coated, then powder coated for protection against oxidization and rust. The other parts of the motor that are most susceptible to the corrosive effects of saltwater

are the motor’s control board and electronics, which are completely encapsulated to keep saltwater out. All motors are also equipped with a technology they call a “digital maximizer” that extends the life of the batteries that power the motors.

The technology really benefits offshore anglers and guides who depend on a trolling motor every day. The new Riptide Terrova has an 87" shaft and a GPS system with a feature called Spot-Lock that automatically holds a boat over a chosen location like a favorite reef, eliminating the need to anchor in deep water. The GPS also allows an

angler to follow a particular track or heading automatically keeping hands free for fishing.

Other features include a bow-mount stabilizer to lock the motor in place when you hit heavy chop and wake, and a quick-release bracket for easy motor removal. The innovations get even more hands-free with the introduction of an i-Pilot Link which connects Riptide trolling motors to a Humminbird fish finder unit, enabling the angler to control their motor from a Humminbird fishfinder.

The Riptide Ulterra® increases the ease of use with a button that automatically deploys and stows the motor and adjusts it up and down. All this can be controlled with a handheld controller, from a smartphone app or on the fish finder unit.

With these advances in technology, the only work you’ll be doing on your trolling motor is maintenance.

In truth, finding someone to work on my trolling motors has always been a problem. That issue was resolved when I met the Trolling Motor Guy. Robert Schroeder operates a factoryauthorized Minn Kota service center right here in Bradenton. Local Island anglers can even drop their motors off to be serviced in Cortez!

Trolling motors have come a long way since I hung the first one on my boat and have become an integral part of a lot of the fishing I do. This article just touches on many of the possibilities. To learn more about them visit www.minnkotamotors. com/learn. The Trolling Motor Guy can be reached by calling 941-5189940.

www.amisun.com

SEPTEMBER 16, 2020

THE SUN

19

DOCK: Duncan Seawall to do repairs, boat lift installation FROM PAGE 14

"Fortunately, we have Duncan and Ronáutica who have understood the different challenges we have faced, and both have jumped in to bring this project across the line,” Perry said.

Regarding past events that also involved the Technomarine Group that was originally contracted to install the dock, Perry said, “Thank you to Oscar Saá and Ronáutica for providing the materials, shipping and releasing of them from U.S. customs to Bradenton Beach. Ronáutica had every right to retain possession over the floating dock; however, it looked out for the best interest of Bradenton Beach and made sure the city received the product it had paid for even at Ronáutica’s financial loss.

“Duncan Seawall, has had a long and successful history of nearly 40 years in the marine industry throughout southwest Florida, especially around our county and in Bradenton Beach. We all know of the problems following the installation work of Hecker on the floating dock. Understanding the importance and needs of the city, Duncan Seawall

has generously offered to undertake the work proposed by Hecker. This work will be completed by Duncan at a substantial discount for the city,” Perry said.

“They will also meet the critical deadlines of the WCIND grant so that our police department will have an essential resource for its marine patrol unit. Thank you to Steve Porter, Steve Liebel and all of Duncan Seawall for your support of our law enforcement officers, the city and all of our visitors who will enjoy the Bridge Street Pier even more because of you. This project would have failed but for Duncan’s strong ties and commitment to our community. Thank you,” Perry said in conclusion.

She also said CRA-contracted engineer Joe Foster has produced the engineering documents needed to repair and reposition the floating dock and install the boat lift.

After Monday’s meeting, Perry was informed that Duncan planned to start repositioning the floating dock on Tuesday.

“Talk about a quick response,” Perry said.

CAPTAIN DAVE WHITE | SUBMITTED

Chef Billy Hermaneau, of the Waterfront Restaurant, hoists a hefty redfish caught with Captain David White of Anna Maria Charters.

Inshore action good despite weather CAPTAIN DAVE WHITE

Last week was one for the books inshore. The redfish, snook, and tarpon were going crazy. Live pilchards have been the ticket. The cooler water temperatures and influx of fresh water have had them going crazy. The flats and mangroves are great on a high tide

right now. Also, the mangrove snapper and Spanish mackerel seem to be firing on all cylinders. It hasn’t been hard to fill a cooler lately. Local rock piles and structures are holding these fish well.

We hope this weather gets out of the way and we can get back to business!

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THE SUN

www.amisun.com

A beachfront wedding

Your dream can come true at The Sunset Weddings by Gulf Drive Cafe. This award-winning waterfront venue is one of Anna Maria Island’s most appealing sites for wedding celebrations. Located at the south end of the island, Gulf Drive Cafe overlooks sugar-white sand beaches, the Gulf of Mexico’s turquoise-emerald waters and multi-colored horizon during sunset. The Gulf waves provide a picturesque backdrop when saying, “I do.”

There are several options when considering where to exchange your vows. The most popular feature is tying the knot near the coastline on a romantic sandy walkway of multi-colored rose petals. They offer several decor options you can add and rent through the coordinators to make your ceremony extra special and elegant.

There is always a backup plan for inclement weather, with our drop down storm curtains. The rustic Sunset Tiki is a reception space perfectly suited for groups up to 150 people. It has a lovely tile dance floor, but you and your guests are also welcomed to dance barefoot in the sand throughout the night. There is specialty lighting available to add for the perfect glow to your evening.

You also have the choice of bar set up during the length of your reception for private use. Their team of experts will work with you on creating and customizing your tropical dream beach wedding. They offer several wedding packages to fit your budget and invite you to visit the property, sample their chef’s creations and learn more about what they have to offer. For more information, visit their website : thesunsetweddings.com or email any inquiries: thesunsetweddings@gmail.com.

SEPTEMBER 16, 2020

SEPTEMBER 16, 2020

www.amisun.com

THE SUN

DARA CAUDILL | WWW.ISLANDPHOTOGRAPHY.ORG

Debi Wohlers and Lori Waggoner celebrated 15 years of being together on February 18, 2020 by getting married on the beautiful beach in front of the Beach Bistro. Beach Bistro owner, Sean Murphy officiated. Following the ceremony, guests celebrated in the garden of the Doctor's Office. Chuck Caudil provided the music for the ceremony and the gathering at the Doctor's Office. Chris Macarone, of the Doctor's Office, coordinated the ceremony and the celebration in the garden. flowers were by Blooms by The Beach, and the cake was by Hometown Desserts. On February 19, a formal reception was held at Key Royale Club, where Lori is president, and Debi is the women's club champion. Debi and Lori are Anna Maria Island residents.

Ralph and Mellody Russo recently celebrated 33 years together on the beach of Anna Maria Island. They are frequent visitors of Anna Maria Island, and currently reside on Lake Ontario in Rochester, New York.

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THE SUN

REAL ESTATE

SEPTEMBER 16, 2020

To disclose or not to disclose

ince there are no perfect houses, when it comes time to sell your imperfect home, just how honest do you have to be about its defects?

Basically, you should disclose anything that might affect a buyer’s decision to buy the property or anything that might influence the buyer’s offer.

To accomplish this, pretend you’re the buyer of your own home.

If you list your home with a Florida Realtor, they will likely provide you with a Seller’s Property Disclosure form created by the Florida Realtors Association. While a Seller’s Property Disclosure form is not required under Florida law, the state still requires sellers and their Realtors to disclose any significant property defects that may not be easily visible to the buyer. If this sounds like a conflict, it’s really not.

The form just provides the avenue whereby sellers can be reminded

Castles in the Sand LOUISE BOLGER to provide the best information to a buyer that will protect them and provide a good faith and accurate disclosure to the buyer.

Some of the items the disclosure form will address are: • Structures, systems and appliances being in working and in sound condition, and whether the home contains aluminum wiring, • Termites, other wood-destroying organisms and pests relative to current activity, past treatment and damage, • Flooding, drainage, mold, or water intrusion issues, • Plumbing leaks, septic systems and

wells, if applicable, relative to condition and potable water, • Roof soundness, leaks, age, repairs you’re aware of and any other roof defects, • Pool and hot tub condition and safety features, • Any knowledge of sinkholes, • Full disclosure of homeowner’s association restrictions and financial records, • Lead-based paint and radon gas, if present, • Government claims and litigation against the property, zoning violations or nonconforming use of the property.

Don’t put yourself in a position where a buyer can use anything against you down the road. In our area, the most significant areas of litigation pertain to water penetration and flooding. These are easy areas for a buyer to verify, so don’t fib. That said, you are only obligated to disclose what you know even if it’s something the buyer can’t see.

Is there anything that doesn’t have to be disclosed?

You don’t have to disclose the reason you are selling, and neither should your broker. This includes if you totally hate your next-door neighbor as long as the neighbor is not generally considered a nuisance except to you. You don’t have to disclose if someone passed away in the house and you definitely don’t have to disclose that your house is haunted, even if you think it is.

So, put your buyer shoes on before you advise the seller or their broker about condition or fill out a disclosure form. Remember, Florida law requires a seller of a home to disclose to the buyer all known facts that materially affect the value of the property that are not readily observable or known by the buyer. Be as straightforward as you can be, and stay safe.

SEPTEMBER 16, 2020

www.amisun.com

THE SUN

23

RELIEF: Swordfish Grill delivers supplies As 10 a.m. approached, the heat and humidity of the looming day could already be felt. Wilson said local officials estimate it will be at least another two or three weeks before power is restored in some areas.

FROM PAGE 4

structure. I have three rental properties.

One of them had three trees on it. One had the neighbor’s roof on it and the third had a larger tree on it. My house and my structures are OK and we’re working to make sure our tenants have a safe place to come home to when we get power back. We’re still in a mandatory evacuation, so people are not supposed to be here. They’re asked to come secure their stuff and leave, but we’re a bunch of Cajuns,” Rozas said.

“We had power tools and the first thing we did was cut our way out. We walked the block and saw total losses.

It’s just mass devastation,” she said.

Rozas said the Water’s Edge buildings fared better than some of the other churches in the area, including some that were severely damaged or destroyed.

“We are blessed,” she said. “Our community relies on us. When people ask where they can get tarps, they’re told to come to Water’s Edge. The people trust us to have some answers – and if not, some hugs. We can use everything you gave us and pour it into our community.”

Church volunteer Jennifer Hawkes looked at the donated supplies and said, “This is just amazing. We’ve got

POST-DELIVERY SENTIMENTS

BRITTANY STRAUB | SUBMITTED

Lake Charles residents lined up Friday afternoon to receive donated relief supplies. a lot from Florida and I have another shipment coming. I had a group of guys from Wisconsin drive down yesterday in their pickup. We’re getting donations from all over. We’re disbursing it to our community and we’re sending it out to the communities and small towns that aren’t getting the media attention Lake Charles is getting.”

“We still don’t have power at my

home. I live maybe 15 to 20 miles from here and I’m still running off a generator. I have water, but no power. We’re under a curfew from 7 p.m. to 6 a.m.

It’s dark at night and there’s been some looting, but the patrol officers have been great. Our mayor is awesome and he’s out in the community daily. Our community has pulled together, but it’s going to take months,” Hawkes said.

Water’s Edge volunteers Luke Cooper and Brittany Straub arrived and gave Slicker and The Sun a tour of the surrounding damage while Polch and Sears briefly napped in the truck.

About 11 a.m., the Cortez contingency pulled out of the church parking lot and headed toward D’Iberville, Mississippi to spend the night at the Scarlet Pearl Casino Resort using previously accumulated credit card points.

Polch, Sears and Slicker were asked how they felt about their completed delivery.

“You feel OK, but you don’t feel jubilated. You wish you could do more.

They seemed like great people,” Polch said.

“I hope what we’re doing gives those people hope to carry on the good work they’re doing to help others,” Sears said.

SEE RELIEF, PAGE 24

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THE SUN

SEPTEMBER 16, 2020

RELIEF: Swordfish Grill delivers supplies FROM PAGE 23

“We didn’t bring them a trailer full of stuff, we brought them hope – at least for one day. It’s a bit bittersweet. I feel blessed and grateful to be able to do it, but then in the same breath I feel like I’m letting them down by not staying and helping more,” Slicker said.

In 2018, the Swordfish Grill collected and delivered relief supplies for Hurricane Michael victims in Port St. Joe in the Florida panhandle. In 2017, the Swordfish Grill collected and delivered relief supplies to Hurricane Harvey victims in Texas.

“When we’re gathering supplies the first thing I think about is, ‘How can we help’?

The second thing is to figure out how to get it there,” Slicker said. “I tell people that being a small part of something like this becomes part of a much bigger thing – and when you see a trailer load of supplies delivered you see that it does make a difference. It’s

already getting hot and those people are going to be out there all day with nowhere to cool off, and nowhere to cool off tonight. We get to go to airconditioned hotel rooms and eat a hot meal.”

ROAD TRIP TRIBULATIONS

West of Baton Rouge, Polch’s truck developed a tire vibration that became a source of growing concern and was initially thought to be caused by towing an empty trailer. The group decided to stop for lunch and reassess the situation at Parrain’s seafood restaurant in downtown Baton Rouge.

During lunch, Sears called the U-Haul office in Bradenton and inquired about dropping the trailer off in Baton Rouge instead of returning it to Bradenton. After several more phone calls, a local drop-off was arranged, but the uncured tire vibration remained.

Before departing Baton Rouge, more phone calls were

made in search of a tire store that could remedy the issue.

At approximately 3 p.m., a Plantation Tire Pros representative said they could look at the truck and try to make the needed repairs, but they closed at 5 p.m. sharp.

The prognosis was that the inner structure of one of front tires broke and was coming apart internally. The recommended cure was two new front tires. The employee dispatched to retrieve the new tires was initially given the wrong-sized tires and had to make a second trip to the local supplier. At approximately 6 p.m., Polch’s truck was back on the highway and riding smoothly again.

The group arrived at the Scarlet Pearl shortly after 8 p.m.

Showers were quickly taken and Tampa Bay Lightning attire was donned before the group headed down to the casino to watch the playoff game won by the Lightning on a last-second

JOE HENDRICKS | SUN

Tom Polch’s truck received two new tires at Plantation Tire Pros in Baton Rouge. goal. After a late and delicious dinner at Scarlet’s Steak and Seafood, the weary travelers called it a night.

Thursday’s trip home was uneventful and highlighted by an early dinner at the taxidermy-filled Big Wood BBQ and Grill in Live Oak, Florida.

SUPPLIES DISBURSED

On Friday, all the supplies donated to the Water’s Edge church were distributed to those in need.

At 12:27 p.m., Straub sent a text message that said, “We took on way more damage in

the church than we originally thought and we’re having to empty the entire church as people are getting their things.”

At 3:07 p.m. Straub sent another text that said, “Fortyseven minutes after we opened it was all gone. That was incredible.”

Straub said the folks in Lake Charles were keeping an eye on Tropical Depression 19 – which on Saturday was upgraded to Tropical Storm Sally as it headed toward Louisiana and Mississippi with the possibility of developing into a hurricane.

SEPTEMBER 16, 2020

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25

Join the Holmes Beach planning commission HOLMES BEACH – The Holmes Beach planning commission is in need of a new member after the announcement of former chairman Scott Boyd’s resignation.

City Clerk Stacey Johnston announced Boyd’s resignation during a Sept. 9 planning commission meeting, the first held since March. Johnston read aloud Boyd’s resignation which said he and his family were downsizing and planning to move off of Anna Maria Island, disqualifying him from serving.

Any Holmes Beach committee member must be a city resident in order to seek appointment. Planning commissioners serve as an advisory board to the city commission. They review proposed land development regulations, codes and amendments.

Currently, the group is beginning the process of reviewing the city’s comprehensive plan. Planning commissioners meet the first Wednesday of the month at 6 p.m.

Johnston said that alternate member Gale Tedhams, who was sworn in and reappointed to an additional three-year term

during the same meeting, was interested in moving up to full planning commissioner status.

Holmes Beach city commissioners appoint members to the planning commission and can choose to advance Tedhams if she requests it and appoint a new alternate member to take her place or appoint a new full member.

In addition to Tedhams’ reappointment, members Dana Krupa and Greg Kerchner also were reappointed to new three-year terms and sworn in during the Sept. 9 meeting. All three terms expire Aug. 1, 2023.

Kerchner also was voted in as the planning commission’s new chairperson with Krupa voted in as the vice-chair for the 2020-21 year.

Anyone interested in applying to serve on the planning commission is invited to contact the city clerk’s office at 941-708-5800 ext. 221 or email deputyclerk@holmesbeachfl.org. Applications must be received no later than Sept. 30.

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THE SUN

OBITUARIES Jean Alexander Jean Alexander, of Palmetto, passed away peacefully on Sept. 3, 2020. She was preceded in death in 2003 by her husband of 49 years, William “Bill” F. Alexander.

She is survived by her only child, Wm. Frank Alexander IV, of Anna Maria Island, and her former daughter-inlaw, Sharon Hoatland, of Palmetto. For 53 years Jean was a devoted member of St. Mary’s Episcopal Church in, where she participated in the “Daughters of the King” and was a constant church volunteer.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in her honor to the church. Jean was a loving wife, mother and dear friend. She will be greatly missed by all and will fondly be remembered as “Forever Young.”

Jim Kissick III Jim Kissick III, 65, passed away on Aug. 28, 2020. He was born on Oct. 11, 1954, in Pensacola, Florida and was the son of the late Jim and Bette Kissick of Bradenton Beach. Though he was born in Pensacola, his heart was stolen

by Bradenton Beach long ago. Along with fishing, Florida plant life, singing karaoke and playing his harmonica, Jim loved sharing his adventures with loved ones. He is survived by numerous family members, including a daughter, Greta; two grandkids, Elyse and Xander; and his sisters, Peggy (Jerry), Ginger and Mary Kay. Services will be private.

SEPTEMBER 16, 2020

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SEPTEMBER 16, 2020

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27

WMFR admin building update Plans are moving forward to construct a new administration building for West Manatee Fire Rescue district.

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

BRADENTON – Commissioners may have voted in favor of accepting the guaranteed maximum price for the construction of a new administration building presented by Creative Contractors, but one commissioner isn’t happy about it.

Commissioners voted 4-1, with Commissioner Al Robinson dissenting, to accept the guaranteed maximum price of $1,521,285, including site development and a 3% contingency. While the vote moves the project forward, Robinson made sure that his fellow commissioners knew he wasn’t happy with the decision.

“This is absurd,” Robinson said of the expenditure. “It’s absolutely absurd.”

He said the district’s current temporary offices, on the second floor of a building on the Palma Sola Presbyterian Church campus, are adequate for the district’s needs. Robinson suggested

that if a hurricane strikes the area, the vacant lot purchased for the new administration building, located off of Manatee Avenue behind the Fountain Court Shopping Center, could be used for vehicle and rescue staging. He said operations then could be run out of a fire station or other location determined after a storm had passed.

His fellow commissioners didn’t agree.

Commissioner David Bishop said the price given by Creative Contractors, working with a draft of the building and interior provided by Hall Darling Architects, was reasonable considering the pandemic work environment and the value the district is getting in the building.

The new administration building is designed to serve as a sub-emergency operations center for westside emergency response personnel in the case of a disaster, such as a hurricane. While the district was priced out of hardening the entire building to Miami-Dade standards, one section of the building, the meeting/training room and adjacent bathrooms, are planned to be hardened with the rest of the building created to meet Florida Building Code for a high use government structure.

SUBMITTED | WMFR

The exterior of the planned new administration building is designed to be functional and protect the building, particularly the training/meeting room, from hurricane-force winds.

“The money is where it needs to be in that building and that’s the structure,” Commissioner Larry Jennis said, adding that the building was designed with economy in mind. “I think that they (district staff) do a fantastic job getting the best bang for the buck in all we do.”

“I think we’re getting a good building for the price,” Commissioner Randy Cooper said. Cooper served on the district’s committee working with the contractor and the architect firms to design the building for the best use of the district.

Robinson wasn’t convinced. He said the district is overspending on the building, which, including the $295,000 cost of purchasing the land, will end up close to $2 million.

“We have lost our minds and we are spending the taxpayers’ money,” he said.

Bishop reminded Robinson that some expenses with the building are unavoidable to meet the requirements set out by the Florida Building Code.

“We don’t set state mandates,” Bishop said.

The construction of the new administration building has been four years in the making. It started with discussions in October 2016 to sell the previous administration building, located almost directly across the street from the district’s current temporary offices. Even with COVID-19 related setbacks, the district’s administration staff could be in the new building within a year or less.

In all of the meetings held concerning the project, no public comment has been received against the land purchase or construction.

The district’s leaders plan to use the funds received from the sale of the previous administration building and some saved in reserves for the purchase to fund the construction of the new building. Rigney said this plan will leave the district with about $1 million remaining on the construction of Station 1 on 69th Street in Bradenton as outstanding debt for the district.

“This is an exciting time for West Manatee Fire Rescue district,” Rigney said.

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SPORTS

SEPTEMBER 16, 2020

Soccer championship game delayed

Key Royale golf results MONDAY, SEPT. 7 - STEP-A-SIDE SCRAMBLE

Forty-eight golfers at Key Royale Club celebrated Labor Day by playing a step-a-side scramble and a handicap using the ambrose team handicapping system. First place honors went to the team of Ann and John Hackinson, Lori Waggoner and Debi Wohlers with a score of 22.75. Second place went to Mike Clements, Steve Donnella and Deb and Dave Richardson with a score of 24.87. Long drive for the ladies was won by Karen Mitchell while Steve Vasbinder captured the title for the men. For closest to the pin, Debi Wohlers won for the ladies and Steve Donnella was the best of the men. After golf, nearly 60 members and guests celebrated the day with prizes awarded to the winners followed by lunch and libations.

BY MONICA SIMPSON SPECIAL TO THE SUN

With the championship game scheduled as the last of the night and the clouds and rain threatening to stop adult soccer play at The Center, two games were completed before a power outage ended action on the pitch.

The first game of the night ended with team Sato Real Estate capturing the first of two spots in the Paul “Ace” Hayward Championship Cup game by beating a talented Moss Builders squad by three goals.

Former Ross Built team member Connor Bystrom got a hat trick last Thursday night, with supporting goals by team captain Josh Sato and Hakan Toka. With seven saves by goalie Steve Oelfke and a single recorded assist by Murap Akay, team Sato goes on to the final game with a date and time yet to be determined.

The 10 saves by keeper Zack Long, solo assist by Brent Moss, and points scored by Danny Anderson and team captain Ryan Moss just were not enough, making it their last game of the season.

As the rain continued

TUESDAY, SEPT. 8 - LOW NET SCORE

1st Place - Ann Hackinson with a score of 27 2nd Place - Terry Westby with a score of 28

MONICA SIMPSON | SUN

Moss Builders’ Aaron Parkin takes a corner kick for his team in their loss against Sato Real Estate in the first semifinal game played last Thursday night. to threaten, the second semifinal game was played. Underdogs - but highly effective - Vintage Beach had nothing to lose playing the first seed team Beach Bums for the last seat at the championship game table.

Team captain Joey Hutchinson scored three points for his Vintage Beach team, while Amy Ivin matched the scoring shots for the Beach Bums team.

The additional two points put on the scoreboard by teammate Sean Flynn just were not enough, as the Beach

Bums squad put a total of 10 points up in lights on The Center’s scoreboard.

Three of Beach Bums’ players scored two goals each: Connor Haughey, Yuri Pereira and Kevin Roman. Andrew Sullivan had a lone goal and five saves for the team, with an additional five nabs

by Haughey during his time as the goalkeeper.

Due to the power outage, the championship game was delayed. The crowning of the Hayward Cup champion remains much anticipated.

SUN SCOREBOARD TUESDAY, SEPT. 8 YOUTH CO-ED SOCCER 8-TO 10-YEAR OLD LEAGUE HSH Beach Bums

0 2

Moss Builders Miz & Hiz Biz

4 0

THURSDAY, SEPT. 10 SEMIFINAL GAMES ADULT CO-ED SOCCER

#2 Sato Real Estate #7 Moss Builders #5 Vintage Beach #1 Beach Bums

5 2 5 10

THURSDAY, SEPT. 10 – SCRAMBLE, PLAYERS USING ONLY THREE CLUBS

1st Place team - Mike Clements, Bill MacMillan, Jerry Martinek tied with Mike Cusato, Fred Miller, Ken Nagengast with a score of 29, three under par.

Golf tournament set The Anna Maria Island Chamber of Commerce will hold its annual golf tournament on Friday, Oct. 23 at the IMG Golf Club, 4350 El Conquistador Parkway in Bradenton. It begins at 11:30 a.m. with lunch and registration and the shotgun start is at 12:30 p.m.

This annual event benefits the Chamber’s Scholarship Program. There is room for 76 golfers and they can have additional attendees for the banquet and raffle to follow. Golfers do not need to be club members to participate. Hole sponsors and banquet raffle donations are needed. To register, email info@amichamber.org or call 941-778-1541.

SEPTEMBER 16, 2020

FUN IN THE SUN

Across 1 NASCAR stat 4 Afternoon entertainment staples 14 Asia's __-Kum Desert 15 Certain junkie's stimulus 16 Slaughter on the diamond 17 One sharing a pedigree 18 Frittata base 19 Inexperienced 20 Combined 22 Belgian or brown 23 Canonized pope known as "The Great" 24 Sea-__ 26 Longtime New Yorker cartoonist Roz 31 Starbucks selection 34 Pi, for a circle with a

Answers to 09-09-20 Crossword Puzzle.

radius of one 35 Where the action in Chicago's County General Hospital took place 36 Peripheral 37 "Phooey!"

38 Folklore fiend 39 Folklore trickster 41 Gets rid of 43 Recognizes 44 "The Red House Mystery" author 45 Delivery pros 47 "Truly!"

48 "Truly!"

54 Stadium ticket info 55 Some white research subjects 56 Freudian subjects 57 Cosmetic coating 58 Little pig, maybe 59 Great places to make

THE SUN

29

contact 60 Match with chips Down 1 Rhyming cocktail 2 Ones working on the links 3 Easy to use 4 Mexican toast 5 God played by Anthony Hopkins in "Thor" 6 Fine __ 7 H.S. instructors who show you the ropes?

8 "Inside the NBA" analyst 9 About 3.26 light-years 10 Muppet who refers to himself in the third person 11 "Knives Out" writer/ director Johnson 12 Required wager 13 Tournament position 14 Doesn't freak out 21 Fair-hiring letters 24 Hotel handout 25 Didn't do nothing 27 Precursors 28 Group that suspended Syria in 2011 29 Permanent 30 Challenge often undertaken while blindfolded 32 Unruly group

33 Talk Like a Pirate Day syllable 40 "Te __": Rihanna song 42 Emma Lazarus' "The New Colossus," e.g.

46 Godsends 47 Tips to one side 48 Olympic swimmers Crocker and Thorpe 49 Arcade game grabber

50 Irish Rose's beau 51 Juba's river 52 Long way to go?

53 Rapper-turned-actor

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CLASSIFIED

ANNOUNCEMENTS

EMPLOYMENT

THE BEST VOLUNTEER position on the island. The AMI Historical Museum needs docents and bread makers. Call Lynn at 813758-3234 or lbrennan47@ gmail.com

GUARDIAN SECURITY AGENCY of Florida Local FT/PT positions Competitive pay and benefits.

Requires reliable transportation and smart phone 727-873-7400 gsa-fla.com/ apply

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

BOATS BOATS ARE STILL SELLING Very Well. No Listing Agreements.

No Time Constraints, Just Easy 20 years, Excellent Reputation, Hundreds of Boats Sold. Islandboatsales. net 941-228-3489

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 13 UNIT RESORT: $3,999,900 Bradenton Beach on Gulf Dr. WAREHOUSE: 9300 sq ft possible Machine Shop w/ Heavy Duty Elect. Or Car Storage. So many Possibilities. Near SRQ Airport. $595,000. Island Real Estate call Alan Galletto 941-232-2216

COMPUTER SERVICES EMPIRE COMPUTER SERVICE Computer problems fixed in your home or office. The fastest friendliest service around. Serving the Island since 2004. Call 941-739-6424

Call us today! 941-778-3986

JESSIE’S ISLAND STORE has immediate openings for full and part time cashiers for both day and night shifts. 2 to 3 shifts per week apply in person at 5424 Marina Drive, Holmes Beach or call 941778-6903 HOTEL ON ANNA MARIA seeking Housekeeper Full time, Part time. Must have two years experience. We drug test.

Must speak English. If no Answer, leave message.

813-735-4373.

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

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

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

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

KERN CONSTRUCTION NEW Homes & Remodel.

Design/Build. Since 1968.

License # CRC1327296.

Call Jerry Kern 941-7781115 www.kernconstructioninc.com 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 COASTAL INTERIORS Trim, paint, repairs and more 27yrs experience Local 786-318-8585

HOME SERVICES THE HARDWOOD STOP Flooring installation services; Laminate, hardwood, vinyl and tile. Bathroom and shower. Virtually dustless FLOOR REMOVAL License and insured FREE ESTIMATES 941-227-0041 www.thehardwoodstop. com

LANDSCAPING & LAWN CARE

HOME IMPROVEMENTS

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

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

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

Neil 941-726-3077

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

SEPTEMBER 16, 2020

LOST & FOUND FOUND ON BEACH North end Anna Maria. Women’s prescription sunglasses Call 813-545-8884

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

PAINTING & WALLCOVERING PAINT! PAINT! AND MORE 28 years of experienced interior/exterior custom painting. Pressure cleaning, drywall repairs and texture finishes. Many Island references. Please call Neil for free estimates.

941-812-0507 “WIZARD OF WALLS” Established 1980 Prompt quality service.

Paperhanging/removal Faux finishes. Interior painting. Mary Bell Winegarden 941-794-0455 PROFESSIONAL PAINTING SERVICES. Prompt & Reliable. Island Resident.

Quality Workmanship.

Interior/Exterior. Also minor repairs & carpentry. Free written detailed estimates. Bill Witaszek 941-307-9315 CUSTOM PAINTING, Residential-Commercial, Interior/Exterior Professional quality work for over 40 years. Free estimates.

Call Larry at 941-400-8754.

References available.

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

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

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

AMISUN.COM

COLE'S TROPICAL POOL SERVICE Call Cole Bowers for all your pool maintenance needs! Affordable and Dependable!! 941-7131893

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

REAL ESTATE HOMES & CONDOS FOR SALE CANAL FRONT HOMES Holmes Beach – GULF FRONT CONDOS Gulf Place, L’Plage, Vista Grande, SPW, 5400 – DUPLEXES & MORE Island Real Estate ASK Alan Galletto 941232-2216 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

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 TURN KEY FURNISHED VRBO River District Bradenton. Estately Gardens Vacasa. $769,000 Call Brenda Boyd May. Broker owner Boyd Realty. 941-730-8589 HOUSE FLIPPERS DREAM! Beautiful lakefront treed lot with house in Holmes Beach. One block to beach. $650,000. For details contact amiturtles@earthlink. net

RENTALS: ANNUAL ANNUAL RENTAL AT VILLAGE GREEN: Oversized villa with two-car garage, 2BR/2BA, unfurnished, nice updates throughout, Over 55, no pets/ smokers, First, last plus security, $1,795 monthly.

Available Nov. 1. Call Paige Rogers Duncan Real Estate 513-3821992.

www.amisun.com

SEPTEMBER 16, 2020

BUSINESS & SERVICE DIRECTORY COMPUTER SERVICE

HOME IMPROVEMENT

HOME IMPROVEMENT

THE SUN

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

PAINTING

TRANSPORTATION HOME SERVICES

RENTALS: ANNUAL ANNUAL 2BR/1BA STEPS to Beach. Tile floors, dining area, deck with Gulf View, carport, storage room, washer/dryer. $1850/ mo. + utilities. First, Last & security deposit. Call 941778-3427

RENTALS: SEASONAL & VACATION MONTHLY RENTAL 1BR/2BA apartment with pool access. Bottom floor, pool is unheated, no washer/dryer. Steps to beach. No pets. $3800/ mo rent. Cleaning fee plus 12% tax. Available starting January 1, 2021. Call 941778-0426 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

ANNA MARIA ISLAND, Fl Condos. Pool beach access, fully equipped $700-$850/wk REDEKERCONDOSonAMI.com 941704-7525

ROOMMATE WANTED ROOMMATE WANTED VERY PRIVATE. MUST SEE. CALL 941-685-0045

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

941-779-5095 AIRPORT RIDES- Tampa, St. Pete, Sarasota. Mask & gloves provided. Reasonable rates! Call or text Anna 941-932-1600

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SEPTEMBER 16, 2020

the Team Duncan Difference!

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

310 Pine Avenue Anna Maria, FL 34216

TeamDuncan.com

941.779.0304