Anna Maria Island Sun September 20, 2017

VOL 17 No. 49

- Named Best Florida Newspaper In Its Class -

September 20, 2017

Irma’s aftermath Just more than a week after Hurricane Irma struck, life on Anna Maria Island is slowly returning to normal. Power is back on for most, but not all. Damage, though not catastrophic, may be worse than first estimated. Nevertheless, the recovery is beginning. Coverage continues on Page 3.

joe hendricks | SUN

Temporary covering has been placed atop of the roofless bait shop. The boat dock alongside the pier also severe damage. The wooden planking along the northwest edge of the pier also sustained heavy damage.

City pier shredded The landmark is closed due to damage from the hurricane winds; a report on the severity is expected Tuesday.

BY JOE HENDRICKS SUN CORRESPONDENT | jhendricks@amisun.com

ANNA MARIA – The historic Anna Maria City Pier will remain closed until further notice due to significant damage inflicted by Hurricane Irma.

In addition to the roof being torn off the bait shop, there is extensive damage to the wooden planking on the northwest side of the pier’s Tend that faces Tampa Bay. The bait shop roof has been given a temporary protective covering. A water line that leads to the pier end was damaged and replaced Friday.

INSIDE HURRICANE COVERAGE OPINION Sun survey OUTDOORS REAL ESTATE POLICE REPORTS crossword classifieds

3-18 6 7 257 28-31 33 36 37-39

see PIER, page 29

WEARY FIREFIGHTERS TRAVEL TO HELP

restoring

power becomes a posthurricane priority. 3

Anna Maria Island, Florida

The damaged fire suppression system was repaired Friday. A missing support bent consisting of two pilings and a crossbeam located near the pier’s midway point was also replaced Friday.

The Tampa-based Ayres Associates engineering firm conducted a structural assessment of the pier damage on Friday and Anna Maria Mayor Dan Murphy is expected to have the report by Tuesday, Sept. 19.

The Ayres report will help determine if the pier can be repaired and reopened. If Ayres deems the pier structurally unsound or not financially feasible to repair, the previously planned $2 million pier rehabilitation project will be accelerated to get a new pier in its place.

MORE IRMA VICTIMS.

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Island sea turtles, birds dodge the

hurricane bullet. 8 The Island’s award-winning weekly newspaper

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THE SUN

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SEPTEMBER 20, 2017

HURRICANE IRMA COVERAGE

SEPTEMBER 20, 2017

THE SUN

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Power restoration a post-hurricane priority

By Sunday afternoon, most Island residents had their power, Internet and cable TV services restored.

We have power, thank you Lord. Last night was brutal.”

Laurie Jo Higgins Anna Maria resident

BY JOE HENDRICKS SUN CORRESPONDENT | jhendricks@amisun.com

ANNA MARIA ISLAND – Hurricane Irma left many Island residents and businesses without power and Spectrum Internet and cable TV service until late last week.

Bradenton Beach

Bradenton Beach fared the best of the three Island cities in terms of power loss and restoration.

Many residents never lost power, yet there was a pocket of residents on the north end of the city did not have power until later in the week.

City Commissioner Marilyn Maro lives on the 2100 block of Avenue B. She got her power back Thursday and her

joe hendricks | SUN

Work crews from Potomac Edison in Maryland spent much time in Bradenton Beach and Anna Maria last week restoring power to residents and businesses.

Spectrum services returned on Saturday.

“My computer was out and my phone was out and I was relying on my cell phone,” she said.

Around the corner on 23rd Street North, Commissioner Jake Spooner’s house never lost power, but several of his neighbors across the street did. His Spectrum services re-

sumed Thursday, the same day his neighbors got power.

Spooner’s Bridge Street Bazaar and Fish Hole adventure golf course spent most of the week as the only businesses on Bridge Street without power.

This led to the deaths of several Koi fish at the golf course.

Both businesses reopened Sunday morning.

Saturday afternoon, Bradenton Beach Mayor Bill Shearon said he was told power had been restored citywide.

Shearon was told the restoration efforts were delayed due to a shortage of replacement parts, including transformers.

Holmes Beach

Power was restored to Holmes Beach City Hall and the Holmes Beach Police department Tuesday night. Before that, the police department was operating on generator power.

Bartender Brad Lisk said D Coy Ducks tried to open Monday without power, but the police department nixed that idea, so the bar reopened with power Wednesday.

County Commissioner and Holmes Beach resident Carol Whitmore got her power back early Friday afternoon.

Anna Maria

The power was restored to Anna Maria City Hall Thursday afternoon, prior to the City Commission meeting that would have taken place that night with generator power if needed.

Thursday afternoon, City Clerk LeAnne Addy and her husband Darren arrived at City Hall with a 30-kilowatt Cat generator they towed back from their evacuation trip to Wisconsin, where Addy used see power, page 35

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THE SUN

ISLAND NEWS

in brief Post-Irma trash pickup

Bradenton Beach Public Works Director Tom Woodard said WastePro will perform regular household yard waste pickup on Wednesday, Sept. 20, for landscape debris that is bagged, bundled or placed in cans and placed in the right of way. On Friday, Sept. 29, WastePro will perform a citywide bulk pickup of all landscape debris placed in the rights of way using a clam-bucket truck.

“It is our hope that the two-week period is an ample amount of time for residents to perform cleanup activities.

I will assess the need for a second pickup after the first one is reviewed,” Woodard said.

Hunzeker contract extended On Monday, the Manatee County Commission voted 6-0 in favor of renewing County Administrator Ed Hunzeker’s contract for another year. Hunzeker’s contract was scheduled to expire in late January 2018.

Earlier this year, the commission voted 4-3 in favor of conducting a national search for Hunzeker’s eventual replacement. Commissioner’s Vanessa Baugh, Robin DiSabatino, Steve Jonsson and Charles Smith supported that action. Commissioners Betsy Benac, Priscilla Whisenant Trace and Carol Whitmore did not. Baugh was not present Monday when the unanimous votes were cast.

Four apply for P&Z seats Fred Bartizal, Ken McDonough, Andrew Mincieli and Bill Morrow have volunteered to serve on the Bradenton Beach Planning and Zoning Board. The board currently has only two members due to the lawsuit related resignations of four former members. The City Commission will vote on each of the four applicants during the Thursday, Sept. 21, commission meeting.

The commission also will receive an update on north end alleys impacted by pending stormwater improvements; discuss code enforcement citations being sent by mail, discuss First Street North sidewalk repairs and discuss the 2017-18 state legislative season. The meeting will start at noon.

Holmes Beach postpones budget hearing In the aftermath of Hurricane Irma, Holmes Beach city leaders opted to postpone the first of two public hearings for the city’s 2017-18 fiscal year budget. The first budget hearing will take place at 6 p.m. Tuesday, Sept. 26. The city commission’s regular meeting is scheduled to immediately follow. The final budget hearing is scheduled for 6 p.m. Tuesday, Oct. 10. As a response to delays caused by Hurricane Irma, Gov. Rick Scott issued an executive order allowing government agencies an extra 30 days to hold budget hearings after the Oct. 1 start of the fiscal year.

Correction The shoe company Layla Copeland works for is Dynasty Footwear. A story on in the Sept. 15 edition had the wrong name.

Visit our website, www.amisun.com.

Scan this code with your smartphone to go there.

SEPTEMBER 20, 2017

Officials study Irma’s effects on AMI’s beaches

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

A team studied Anna Maria Island from stem to stern today, agreeing that Hurricane Irma took a bite out of the beach.

The storm, which was a strong Category 2 when it passed over Manatee County, caused “deflation and retreat” on the beach, which means the beach lost some of its depth and width, said Charlie Hunsicker, the director of the Manatee County Parks and Natural Resources Department.

“There has been some loss,” agreed Larry George, an environmental consultant with the Florida Department of Environmental Protection, part of the team that scoured the beaches under the blazing sun.

The beach already was eroded from Hurricane Hermine earlier this month when Irma struck, said Michelle Pfeiffer, of APTIM, Manatee County’s beach consultant.

Gabriel Todaro, of the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, took measurements on the beach to compare later with previous mapping information to determine the extent of the erosion.

One clue is the sudden appearance of the tops of 1960s-era erosion control groins that lie perpendicular to the beach and have not been seen in decades. The red “Keep Off” lettering looks freshly painted, as if the team were excavating Egyptian ruins, Hunsicker said.

At Coquina Beach, the storm apparently pulled the sand toward the Gulf, flattening it as it went,

cindy lane | SUN

Above, Charlie Hunsicker, director of the Manatee County Parks and Natural Resources Department, looks at a newlyexposed erosion control groin that was completely covered by sand at Cortez Beach before Hurricane Irma hit, while U.S. Army Corps of Engineers workers document changes in the beach. At right, seaweed washed up by Hurricane Irma covers Coquina Beach, which remains closed this weekend due to downed trees in the parking lot. cindy lane | SUN

and leaving a shallow channel where backwash flowed. Hunsicker said the waves eventually will wash the sand back up higher onto the beach.

Numerous patches of seaweed on the beach were carried all the way to the dunes by high tides in some areas. Seaweed, known as wrack, normally is limited to the shoreline on AMI. The wrack contains food for shorebirds, which often rest in them, so the county will not rake up the seaweed from Longboat Pass to the first lifeguard stand on Coquina Beach, which

is a no swimming area, or from a bird nesting area in Holmes Beach or from Bean Point in Anna Maria, he said, adding that the county will clean up the seaweed from high-use beaches on the Island including Coquina, Cortez and Manatee.

Manatee County’s beach renourishment program, dating back to the early 1990s, prevented Irma from pushing the Gulf of Mexico over Gulf Drive at Coquina Beach, the Island’s narrowest point and a state-designated critically eroded beach, Hunsicker said.

Coquina and Cortez beaches have long been a priority for county renourishment efforts, with the recent reconstruction of three erosion control groins known as Twin Piers, named when the first two were built, he said.

That stretch of beach between Longboat Pass north to Cortez Beach gets no federal funding because no structures are on the beach other than lifeguard stands, Hunsicker said, adding that the county plans to ask the state for financial help to repair all or some of the damage.

HURRICANE IRMA COVERAGE

SEPTEMBER 20, 2017

THE SUN

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Irma strips Island cell towers Both the Island’s cell towers lost exterior shrouds in Hurricane Irma’s high winds.

BY JOE HENDRICKS SUN CORRESPONDENT | jhendricks@amisun.com

ANNA MARIA ISLAND – Hurricane Irma’s high winds damaged the cell towers in Bradenton Beach and Anna Maria that provide cell service and mobile connectivity on the Island.

Both towers are missing exterior panels, but functioning properly.

Both towers are located on city land leased from the respective cities. The Bradenton Beach tower stands alongside the Public Works Department building and near the Bradenton Beach Marina. Florida Tower Partners/Tarpon Towers erected the tower in 2014 and transferred its lease with the city to Delaware-based SBA Communications in 2015.

The tower also lost exterior panels during previous storms and marina president Mike Bazzy wants additional preventive measures taken. On Sept. 12,

When these panels get replaced they’re going to put these new locks on them.”

Mike Bazzy Marina president Bazzy sent an e-mail to Mayor Bill Shearon and Police Chief Sam Speciale outlining his concerns.

His e-mail included photos of the panels that came lose during Hurricane Irma and during two storms in 2015. He also included a 2015 video that shows the tower wobbling in the wind.

“On September 10, a portion of the cell phone tower located on city property blew off the tower and fell onto my property. One piece landed on a vessel I am storing in my boat yard, damaging the vessel. It is my understanding that another portion of the cell tower landed on my southern property line and the two other pieces landed further south on Church Street. This is the third time pieces

of the tower have broken off and landed on or near my property,” Bazzy wrote.

Regarding a 2015 incident, Bazzy wrote, “Obviously, this is a safety hazard for persons and personal property located at my facility. At that time, I contacted the city and asked that you contact the cell phone tower owner and request they find a better way to secure the side panels to the tower. The cell tower poses an unacceptable safety hazard to my property and the neighboring properties,” Bazzy wrote.

His e-mail suggested possible legal action if the safety concerns are not addressed. see cell towers, page 30

Bradenton Beach Marina | Submitted

Bradenton Beach Marina employees Cory Bullard, John DeLeon and Cody Camphausen, shown from left, stand in front of an exterior panel that blew off the nearby cell tower.

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THE SUN

OPINIOn

The Anna Maria Island Sun newspaper Island Sun Plaza, 9801 Gulf Drive P.O. Box 1189 Anna Maria, FL 34216-1189 Phone: (941) 778-3986 e-mail: news@amisun.com | ads@amisun.com | classifieds@amisun.com

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SEPTEMBER 20, 2017

COLUMN What I learned from Hurricane Irma

BY JOE HENDRICKS

Sun Correspondent

H

urricane Irma was a teachable moment for those who had never experienced a major hurricane and for those who had.

My wife, Amy, and I experienced hurricanes Charley, Ivan, Jeanne and Wilma while living in Orlando, but Irma was our first west coast hurricane.

On Saturday, Sept. 2, I ordered a 2000-watt Wen invertor generator to pick up at the Walmart on Cortez Road later in the week. I learned that invertor generators are better for cell phones, computers and other sensitive electronics because they produce a steadier electrical current than a standard generator.

They also make less noise.

We didn’t have Facebook during our previous hurricanes, and Irma showed us how useful social media is for sharing information about the availability of water, food, gas and other supplies.

On Tuesday, Sept. 5, I was at the Lowe’s store on Cortez Road at 6 a.m. buying plywood. I knew 4 x 8 pieces of plywood wouldn’t fit in a small hatchback, but I learned that Lowe’s would cut them into smaller pieces that I could then resize at home.

When I arrived home to board windows for the first time, a friend called and said Irma was now a Category 5 hurricane and headed our way. He said our rented wooden home in Sarasota would not survive Category 4 or 5 winds – an opinion Bradenton Beach Public Works Director Tom Woodard later supported.

Our friend also had concerns about the large oak tree in our front yard and strongly suggested we join him and others from the Island who were driving to Georgia Thursday morning.

I’d never evacuated before, but I agreed, even though I hated the prospect of I-75 traffic jams and gas shortages. I later filled four new gas cans with 11 gallons of fuel that would power a generator or a northbound car.

The prospect of leaving behind the books and CDs I spent a lifetime collecting was almost as heartbreaking as the idea that we all might not have homes and jobs to return to.

Wednesday morning, I put my favorite drum set and two bins of books on a van headed for North Carolina, but I retrieved them before the van left because Irma had shifted east.

We canceled the hotel rooms for Thursday and waited to see what Friday would bring. Faced with no good options, I gathered more information from FL511.com (statewide traffic info), GasBuddy.com and WhatIsMyElevation.com.

Come Friday, Amy and I planned to stay home, but I stashed an older drum set and several bins of books at a friend’s block house in Bradenton just in SEE COLUMN, PAGE 7

LETTERS TO THE EDITOR A job well done

Volunteers' dedication lauded

Bradenton Beach was minimally impacted by colossal Hurricane Irma, but our preparedness and follow-up was unmatched by any community in the state.

Lt. John Cosby, working the equivalent of a second job as Emergency Response Director for many years, spearheaded planning and execution of the city's disaster response team.

Public Works Director Tom Woodard and his crew made all our roads passable by Monday, and they continue to perform clean-up operations.

Police Chief Sam Speciale personally greeted and directed returning residents at the Cortez Bridge on Monday at 3 p.m.

City Clerk Terri Sanclemente and the entire city hall staff were up and running on Tuesday morning.

Vice Mayor John Chappie visited the neighborhoods Monday and Tuesday, speaking with each and every citizen he could find to determine any problems or needs they had.

Commissioner Jake Spooner maintained contact with his constituents in Ward 1.

Thanks to each and every city employee and citizen who worked tirelessly to minimize the impact of the storm. It was a job well done.

Jack Clarke Bradenton Beach

I have been fortunate to serve on the Scenic Waves Committee for the past two years. I was saddened to learn of current and potential future resignations on a committee I serve on without having so much as an opportunity to hear and weigh in on a discussion worth having. Forced and sudden resignations without warning or discussion is not how our system ought to function.

I want to highlight to our community our mission statement: [we are] “dedicated to the health and vitality of the citizenry and industry of Bradenton Beach. As an advisory committee we will: facilitate visioning and aid in enabling visions to fruition, be forwardthinking and forward-acting toward the livability of our community, take an active role in communication so that all may be aware of opportunities, make the preservation and enhancement of our natural resources a priority in decision making, advocate public and private partnerships, and always remember our history and its role in our future … ” Scenic Waves works hard to enhance the livability of our community.

Sometimes we try and miss, but the dedication of our volunteer committee is a priority. I appreciate its members who, without compensation, ensure we are fulfilling our mission. I am disheartened that all the things this committee

Take The Sun Survey on Page 7. has done to protect and preserve its community has been overshadowed by a small, recent incident. This incident could be easily rectified with simple communication as opposed to extreme measures and lawsuits. If infractions were committed, they are not done with malice. We take our mission seriously to ensure all in our community hear about the opportunities we strive to create and implement.

As president of a chamber of commerce, I understand how challenging it is in our busy lives to find people who are able to take on time-consuming, volunteer roles that our communities benefit from. Our committee and its dedicated chairperson, Tjet Martin, are an integral part of these initiatives.

Thank you for allowing your local AMI Chamber to be a part of its team. In this era of diversity, conflicts and partisanship, it is important to remember that “we are human beings, not perfect beings.” We may not always agree, but our citizen’s efforts to make our local communities a better, safer and more beautiful place to live are greatly appreciated.

Deb Wing President Anna Maria Island Chamber of Commerce

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SEPTEMBER 20, 2017

THE SUN

the sun survey

on the agenda

PREVIOUS QUESTION: Did you evacuate or stay on the Island during Hurricane

Anna Maria

Irma?

50%

We evacuated early.

10005 Gulf Drive.

9/28: City Commission meeting, budget hearing, 6 p.m.

10/10: Planning and Zoning Board meeting, 4 p.m.

10/12: City Commission meeting, 6 p.m.

For information, call 7086130.

Bradenton Beach 107 Gulf Drive N.

38%

We left, but not until the last minute.

12%

We rode it out on the Island.

The sun survey is not a scientific poll and is used for entertainment purposes only.

& Light's response to Hurricane Irma on Anna Maria Island?

Note: Events are free unless indicated.

• Very good • Good • Fair • Needs work

Wednesday September 20

To vote, go to www.amisun.com or scan this code to vote by smartphone.

LIKE us on our Facebook page at www.facebook.com/AnnaMariaIslandSun View The Sun’s online edition at www.issuu.com/AnnaMariaIslandSun

EDITORIAL COLUMN FROM PAGE 6

case.

Later that day, we were convinced to go Brad Robinson’s brick house in west Bradenton. Brad is the son of former Major League Baseball player Don Robinson, and Brad’s spacious home offered much better protection.

With Mabel the dog in tow, we arrived at Brad’s Saturday afternoon. I then made another trip home to retrieve my main drum set, the generator and camping supplies, food, water, clothes

9/26: City Commission work shop, 1 p.m.

9/27: CIP Committee meeting, review bids, 9 a.m.

9/28: CRA second millage and budget hearing, 5:05 p.m.

9/28: City second millage and budget hearing, 5:30 p.m.

For information, call 7781005.

Holmes Beach 5801 Marina Drive.

9/20: Building Department Community Forum, 6 p.m.

9/26: City Commission meeting, first budget hearing, 6 p.m.

9/28: City Commission work session, 6 p.m.

For information, call 7085800.

Island-wide

9/20: Barrier Island Elected Officials meeting, CANCELED

mark your calendar

THIS WEEK’S SURVEY How would you rate Florida Power

9/20: Pre-bid meeting, 1 p.m.

9/20: Neighborhood workshop, Herb Dolan Park, 3 p.m.

9/20: Neighborhood workshop, Annie Silver Community Center, 4:30 p.m.

9/21: City Commission meeting, noon.

9/21: CRA first millage and budget hearing, 5:05 p.m.

9/21: City Commission first millage and budget hearing, 5:30 p.m.

9/25: Bid opening, 2 p.m.

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and a few precious pieces of Joe and Amy memorabilia. Our friend dropped off a second generator and some additional supplies before leaving for Georgia early Sunday morning.

Joined by Brad’s friends, Mark and Jen, we spent Sunday waiting for Irma.

We watched football, the Weather Channel, the local news and had an impromptu shrimp boil. I went to bed at 2 a.m. Monday with the power still on, and I was on the Island taking pictures by 8 a.m.

Our home and Amy’s preschool

suffered nothing worse than the loss of power, so we spent Monday night at a friend’s.

On Tuesday, the makeshift Sun staff laid out the newspaper in a Holmes Beach condo that still had power. I had to put some of my canned gas in Amy’s car to get us home that night. I then fired up the generator, plugged in the portable A/C unit, a fan and a phone charger. While Amy slept, I drank a couple beers and thanked Irma for sparing us from her worst.

Roser-Robics chair-based exercise class, Roser Church, 512 Pine Ave., Anna Maria, 9:30 a.m.

Classical Moments in Art History, Anna Maria Island Art League, 5312 Holmes Blvd., Holmes Beach, 6:30 to 8:30 p.m., $20. Reserve to 941-778-2099 or artleagueami@gmail.com.

Thursday September 21

Boomer Boot camp, Roser Church, 512 Pine Ave., Anna Maria, 9:30 a.m. One class, $15; five classes, $65; 10 classes, $100.

Zumba and mat pilates for seniors, The Paradise Center, 6200 Gulf of Mexico Drive, Longboat Key, second floor, 10 a.m., $10 per class.

Reserve to maryannbrady@ theparadisecenter.org or 941-383-6493.

Book Club, Island Branch Library, 5701 Marina Drive, Holmes Beach, 10:15 a.m.

Knit and Crochet, Island Branch Library, 5701 Marina Drive, Holmes Beach, 1 p.m.

Friday

September 22

Perico plant pull, Perico Preserve, 11700 Manatee Ave. W., Bradenton, 8:30 to 11:30 a.m. Reserve to 941-7425757 ext. 2 or coral.bass@ mymanatee.org.

Forty carrots, Island Branch Library, 5701 Marina Drive, Holmes Beach, 10 a.m.

Intermediate bridge session, The Paradise Center, 6200 Gulf of Mexico Drive, 2nd Floor, Longboat Key, 10:30 to 11:30 a.m., $10, includes coffee and cookies.

Reserve to maryannbrady@ theparadisecenter.org or 941-383-6493.

Mahjong, Island Branch Library, 5701 Marina Drive, Holmes Beach, 1 p.m.

Sunset drum circle, Manatee Beach, 4000 Gulf Drive, Holmes Beach, 5 to 8 p.m.

Sunset starlight paddle, Robinson Preserve, 1704 99th St. NW, Bradenton, 6:30 to 8:30 p.m. Reserve to 941-742-5757 ext. 7.

Saturday September 23

Robinson expansion planting, Robinson Preserve, 1704 99th St. NW, Bradenton, 8:30 to 11:30 a.m. Reserve to 941-742-5923 ext. 2 or coral. bass@mymanatee.org.

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HURRICANE IRMA COVERAGE

THE SUN

SEPTEMBER 20, 2017

Turtles, birds dodge Irma

Turtle Tips

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

Sea turtles and shorebirds have survived hurricanes for centuries, and Hurricane Irma damaged, but did not decimate, Anna Maria Island’s turtle and bird populations.

“We lost stakes to 35 turtle nests, but believe eggs from half of those are still in the ground unmarked,” while the remainder washed out into the Gulf of Mexico, said Suzi Fox, director of Anna Maria Island Turtle Watch and Shorebird Monitoring.

More than 50 adult black skimmers and many juveniles are still on the beach near the 5400 block of Gulf Drive in Holmes Beach, she said.

The birds are resting in the wrack (seaweed), she said, which the county will not rake up in that area to avoid disturbing them.

“The birds are so tired (from the storm) that they barely move or sound off as we walk up to conduct our survey count,” she said, requesting that beachgoers remain at least 75 feet from birds to avoid making them flush, which uses precious energy.

Beachgoers also need to be cautious

CINDY LANE | SUN

Turtle Watch volunteers excavate a sea turtle nest to count shell fragments to determine the number of hatchlings that emerged from the nest. because sea turtle nests that no longer have stakes can hatch at any time.

With 37 known nests left to hatch before turtle season ends on Oct. 31,

“We’re still in the game,” she said.

Nearly 24,500 turtle hatchlings emerged from the 488 nests laid on the Island this season, according to Turtle Watch.

During sea turtle season, May 1 – Oct. 31, please follow these tips: • Turn off lights visible from the beach and close blinds from sundown to sunrise; lights confuse nesting sea turtles and may cause them to go back to sea and drop their eggs in the water, where they won’t hatch. Light can also attract hatchlings away from the water.

• Don’t use flashlights, lanterns or camera flashes on the beach at night.

• Remove all objects from the sand from sundown to sunrise; they can deter sea turtles from nesting and disorient hatchlings.

• Fill in the holes you dig in the sand before leaving the beach; they can trap nesting and hatching sea turtles, which cannot live long out of the water.

• Don’t use sky lanterns or fireworks; they litter the beach and Gulf.

• Do not trim trees and plants that shield the beach from lights.

• Never touch a sea turtle; it’s the law. If you see people disturbing turtles, call the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission’s Wildlife Alert hotline at 888-404FWCC (3922).

SEPTEMBER 20, 2017

www.amisun.com

THE SUN

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HURRICANE IRMA COVERAGE

THE SUN

SEPTEMBER 20, 2017

Help after the storm in Manatee County Assistance and volunteer opportunities available in Manatee County to help local and state residents in the aftermath of Hurricane Irma.

BY KRISTIN SWAIN

SUN STAFF WRITER | kswain@amisun.com

MANATEE COUNTY — Hurricane Irma came and went, leaving a trail of destruction across the state of Florida. Now several people and organizations are reaching out to help those affected by the storm and offer opportunities for others to assist.

Storm debris cleanup

In the wake of Hurricane Irma, debris cleanup is a priority for residents, property owners and city and county governments.

With trash and recycling collection returning to normal Monday, Sept. 18, residents may be wondering what will happen with the yard and other large storm debris.

Both Waste Pro and Waste Management are collecting yard waste, along with another company contracted by Manatee County. Residents with yard, construction and vegetative debris are asked to place it road side for pickup. Debris does not need to be bundled or bagged for collection.

Larger items requiring specialized disposal,

including appliances and furniture, should also be placed curbside for collection.

FEMA asks property owners to place items in six different piles for easier collection — household garbage, construction debris, vegetative debris, hazardous waste, large appliances and electronics. Collection by local governments is available only for a limited time, so property owners are asked to move debris to the curb as quickly as possible. Do not block fire hydrants, meters, driveways or roadways with debris.

Debris collection is expected to take several days to complete.

West Manatee Fire Rescue Chief Tom Sousa advises residents to not try to burn debris, which can cause house fires and other issues.

For Islanders who need assistance with storm debris cleanup, there’s a group ready and willing to help out.

Members of the Anna Maria Island Home Sweet Home group are ready to assist Islanders who need a helping hand cleaning up after the storm. Leading the charge are local realtors Jen and Mark Bowman.

Anyone who needs help or who would like to volunteer to assist in cleanups can contact Jen Bowman at 941-840-0117 or e-mail jen@bowmansellshomes.com.

Pet assistance

To help reunite lost pets with their owners, Manatee County Animal Services is extending its stray hold to 30 days to allow pet parents time to find their lost furry loved ones before the animals are available for adoption. Redemption fees are waived for animals displaced by the storm.

In an effort to clear the county’s shelters to make room for animals being brought in from storm damaged areas, shelters are temporarily waiving adoption fees for dogs and cats at both the Palmetto shelter and adoption center and the downtown Bradenton cat adoption center.

To see the animals in the care of MCAS, visit a shelter or www.mymanatee.org/pets.

MCAS is in need of volunteers to help care for animals and assist pet parents seeking lost animals, along with donations of dry food and other supplies for dogs and cats. For more information or to volunteer, call 941-742-5933.

Cat Depot in Sarasota is collecting supplies to send to shelters and rescue organizations in south Florida. The nonprofit also is collecting funds to help support rescue animals in affected areas and transport animals to other shelters from Miami and other damaged areas. For more information, visit www.catdepot.org.

Donate blood

OneBlood is encouraging everyone who can to donate blood to help end a critical shortage in Florida following Hurricane Irma.

To locate a local blood drive or schedule an appointment at a local blood center, visit AABB at www.aabb.org, America’s Blood Centers at www.americasblood. org, and the American Red Cross at www. redcrossblood.org or call 1-800-733-2767.

Local residents also are encouraged to look for the OneBlood big red bus as it works its way through Manatee County over the coming weeks. For more information, visit www.oneblood.org/hurricane-irma.

In Bradenton, blood donations can be scheduled daily at the Bradenton-Manatee Donor Center, 216 Manatee Ave. E., Bradenton, and Blake Medical Center, 2020 59th St. W., Bradenton.

Travel to affected areas

Roser Memorial Community Church is assembling a storm relief team to travel to Naples in the coming weeks to help clean up after the storm. Volunteers will be needed for several days for the trip, which will include helping to distribute supplies, see help, page 31

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SEPTEMBER 20, 2017

HURRICANE IRMA COVERAGE

THE SUN

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Local firefighters travel to help Irma victims A team of WMFR firefighters traveled with personnel from other Manatee County fire districts to one of the hardest hit areas of south Florida to help provide disaster relief.

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

MANATEE COUNTY — It’s been a tough week for some Manatee County firefighters.

In addition to responding to issues in their home fire districts, a strike team of firefighters from several Manatee County districts also traveled to Collier County in south Florida in the wake of Hurricane Irma to offer assistance and relief.

West Manatee Fire Rescue is one of the districts that sent a five man team to help out in the area where Irma came ashore for the second time. The team included assistant strike team leader Battalion Chief Ben Rigney, Capt. James Leigh and firefighters Jeff Phillips, Adam Baggett and Andrew Powers. Other districts with personnel making up the 28 person strike team include East Manatee, Cedar Hammock, North River, South Manatee and Bradenton.

Crews left East Manatee Station 5 the morning of Sept. 11, after the storm passed, and returned home Sept. 15.

“It was a real eye opening experience for me,” Rigney said.

After being dispatched to North Collier County, he said the WMFR team was sent to Immokalee, a rural farming area that suffered large amounts of damage from the storm. He describes the area as a migrant farming community where “the whole town worked together to get everybody up and running.”

Firefighters not only helped relieve emergency workers in the area, they also helped with search and rescue, to cut trees away

Submitted

A group of firefighters from several Manatee County districts gathers in North Collier County to help residents and business owners affected by Hurricane Irma.

Submitted

Above left, two firefighters from West Manatee Fire Rescue cut down and move a large tree in Immokalee that fell during the hurricane. Above right, WMFR Capt. James Leigh and firefighter Jeff Phillips help unload a truck full of supplies to be distributed to Collier County residents. from homes, patch roofs and distribute food, water and supplies to area residents.

Leigh said people in the area were grateful for the help when the firefighters came in with equipment and manpower to help move debris street side for pick up, clear roads and use the materials at hand to patch holes in homes. One experience that stuck out for him was seeing a man trying to chop a large fallen tree with a machete.

“They’re just doing the best they can,” he said. “They had no other way of doing it.”

“We were very fortunate in Manatee County,” he added, describing the devastation he saw with people who had “lost everything.”

“My first impression was that it was humbling and infuriating at the same time,” Leigh said. “You saw the best and the worst in people. They’re just in need. You don’t know what they’re going through.”

Rigney said there were many people in the area living in mobile homes who not only had damage from the storm, but also

from the tornados caused by it.

Leigh said he’s served on many strike teams in the past, but none where he’d seen this kind of wide-spread devastation.

“There was so much need,” he said. “I’d volunteer to go again all day, every day.”

Back home in Manatee County, Chief Tom Sousa commended the work of all WMFR personnel before, during and after the storm.

“They all performed admirably,” he said.

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Resident upset about burglary Holmes Beach police investigate the burglary in Key Royale.

BY TOM VAUGHT SUN STAFF WRITER | tvaught@amisun. com

HOLMES BEACH – Susan Hatch is a long-time resident of Anna Maria Island, and she has a lot of respect for its history and people.

But what happened to a retired couple while they were evacuated has her hopping mad.

The home of Robert and Bea Elliot was burglarized sometime before or after Hurricane Irma passed through the Island. Robert Elliot, also known as Colonel Elliot, celebrated his 100th birthday and retirement from his vol-

file photo

Bea and Col. Robert Elliot at his 100th birthday and retirement celebration at Key Royale Golf Club in 2015. unteer job of opening the Key Royale Club every morning on Jan. 3, 2015.

Since then, the health of both Robert and Bea has deteriorated, and they were evacuated from the Island and moved twice during Irma. Their caretakers went with them, according to Hatch.

When the Elliots re-

turned home, they found that their house had been burglarized. The thieves stole a silverware set that had been given to Bea by her grandmother and was more than 100 years old.

Hatch is livid about the burglary and the burglars. see burglary, page 14

SEPTEMBER 20, 2017

HURRICANE IRMA COVERAGE

SEPTEMBER 20, 2017

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Insurance after Irma: What you need to know • • • • • • • • • • • •

TIP-OFFS TO POTENTIAL RIP-OFFS

If you must act now, the offer is probably to good to be true.

You pull the permits? - NO Solici ng door to door – “Just finished a job down the street”- NO Unmarked vehicle – NO No physical address for the office/shop – NO Be sure the contractor’s phone number is listed in your local directory.

Discount as your’s is a “demonstra on home” – NO Pay everything up-front for a discount? – NO Ask to see your contractor’s license and check with the FL Dept of Business & Professional Regula on to verify.

Check with your neighbors and friends – Have they used this contractor before?

Don’t be afraid to ask for references.

Ask for proof of insurance, both General Liability (to protect your property) and Workers Compensa on (to cover anyone who would get hurt on your job).

Get an es mate/proposal in wri ng.

Make sure it specifies work to be performed.

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Floridians with damage caused

by Hurricane Irma should take photos of the damage, make temporary repairs and call their insurance companies promptly to make claims, the Florida Office of Insurance Regulation recommends.

Tips for navigating the insurance claims process: • Notify your insurance company first. Many insurance companies have reporting deadlines, so it is important to act quickly. Take steps to make temporary repairs that prevent further damage, but remain in contact with your insurance company regarding any outside vendors that are brought in to make repairs. Helpline experts at the Insurance Consumer Helpline at 1-877-693-5236 can help Floridians locate their insurance company’s contact information.

• While making temporary repairs, obtain the licensing or training credentials of all thirdparty vendors before signing any work agreements. Beware of fly-by-night repair companies and

hire only licensed and reputable vendors. Use the Department of Business and Professional Regulation’s Contractor License lookup at www.myfloridalicense.com/ dbpr/ to make sure all contractors are properly licensed and bonded.

• Fully review all documentation you are asked to sign and ask questions to make sure you understand the agreements you are signing.

Ask specifically who is responsible for paying the vendor, you as the consumer, or your insurance company. For more information about how an assignment of benefits (AOB) for repairs works, visit the Florida Dept. of Financial Service’s website, www.fldfs.com.

• If considering the assistance of a public insurance adjuster, ask for identification to verify that the adjuster is licensed. To verify the license of any Florida insurance agent or adjuster, visit www.myfloridacfo.com/Data/AAR_ALIS1/ index.htm.

• Understand how much a public insurance adjuster charges as

well as what services are included before signing any contract.

• If you suspect fraud or suspicious activity, report it immediately by calling 1-877-693-5236. Your concerns will be promptly referred to insurance fraud investigators.

Irma did not flood Manatee County and Anna Maria Island with the expected storm surge, but rain-induced flooding is still a problem in some areas. Those with flood damage can register for assistance through FEMA at www. disasterassistance.gov or by calling 1-800-621-3362.

If you need legal advice, Florida Free Legal Answers, a virtual civil legal advice clinic, has a Hurricane Irma category at https://florida. freelegalanswers.org/.

More information on post-storm recovery and assistance — including assistance for affected local individuals and businesses, temporary housing, debris cleanup, and how residents can help poststorm efforts — can be found at http://bit.ly/MCAfterIrma.

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More deputies proposed During last week’s budget hearing, the Anna Maria City Commission tentatively agreed to add two Manatee County Sheriff’s deputies to the city’s contracted law enforcement team for the second half of the 2017-18 fiscal year that begins October 1.

If the proposed budget amendment is adopted during the final budget

reading on Thursday, Sept. 28, two additional full-time deputies will come aboard in early 2018 at an estimated cost of $110,000. The commission voted against increasing the city budget to further improve bike trail connectivity with Holmes Beach and the rest of the Island.

burglary: Upsets resident FROM PAGE 12

“How could they do this to a man who fought for our country,” she asked.

“They obviously stole the silverware not knowing its age, and thought they would sell it.”

Hatch said she has known the Elliots for 29 years, and they have been through a lot.

“They had to be moved three times

because the power went out, and then to return to this, it’s terrible,” Hatch said. “These burglars don’t deserve to breath the same air we do.”

Hatch said she hopes the police could find out who did it and put them away for a long time. Anyone with information is asked to contact the Holmes Beach police at 708-5804.

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SEPTEMBER 20, 2017

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FEMA offers help for Floridians with hurricane damage To find out if you qualify for FEMA assistance or to register for federal help after Hurricane Irma, visit www.DisasterAssistance.gov.

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

MANATEE COUNTY — The Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) is ready and willing to help Floridians in need of assistance following Hurricane Irma.

Register for Assistance

Residents and property owners in Manatee County have the option to register for federal assistance through FEMA for losses sustained due to Hurricane Irma. Assistance programs include emergency transitional sheltering, financial assistance, food, legal and medical help.

To register, visit www.DisasterAssistance.gov or call 1-800-621-3362. Hearing impaired individuals without internet access can call 1-800-462-7585. Telephone lines are operating 7 a.m. to 11 p.m. seven days a week until further notice.

Applicants will need to provide, a Social Security number, daytime telephone number, mailing address, address of the affected property and any applicable private insurance information.

Operation Blue Roof

FEMA can help homeowners with temporary roof repairs at no cost.

In concert with the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, FEMA is launching Operation Blue Roof, a program to provide temporary blue plastic sheeting over damaged roofs to protect the residence from further damage until permanent repairs are made. The sheeting is installed by government employees and contractors.

Operation Blue Roof is offered to owners of primary residences that have standard shingled roofs. Homes with metal roofs and mobile homes are evaluated on a case by case basis for the program. Homes with more than 50 percent structural roof damage are not eligible.

For more information, or to register for the program, call 1-888-766-3258 or visit www. saj.usace.army.mil/BlueRoof.

Housing Assistance

Another FEMA program is to offer housing assistance to those who cannot return to their pre-hurricane primary house either because of damage or inaccessibility.

The Transitional Sheltering Assistance program offers storm victims a short-term stay in a hotel, removing them from shelters while other short-term accommodations are secured.

Rental assistance through the Individual and Households Program also is available for storm survivors to provide temporary housing while repairs are being made or the person is transitioning to another permanent housing situation.

For more information on these programs, visit www.DisasterAssistance.gov or call FEMA’s helpline at 1-800-621-3362.

Loans from the Small Business Administration also are available to replace personal property and repair flood-related damage to homes and businesses. Low-interest disaster repair loans are available up to $200,000 with personal property loans up to $40,000 available to renters and homeowners. Loans of up to $2,000,000 are available to businesses and nonprofit organizations affected by the hurricane to offset sustained physical and economic damage.

Unemployment assistance

FEMA and the Florida Department of Economic Opportunity are partnering to offer financial relief to those whose jobs were adversely affected by Hurricane Irma, including farm workers and self-employed individuals. To apply for assistance, visit www.floridajobs.org/office-directory/division-of-workforce-services/reemploymentassistance-programs/disaster-unemployment-assistance.

Scams

When disaster strikes, so do scam artists. FEMA encourages hurricane victims, family and friends to be alert when interacting with anyone claiming to offer relief or asking for information for a federal aid program.

According to a FEMA news release, federal and state workers will not ask for or accept money. FEMA does not charge for disaster assistance. Applicants are encouraged to ask to see any FEMA employee’s ID badge to prove association with the federal program.

FEMA shirts, jackets and hats are not considered proof of identity. FEMA employees, including volunteers and contract workers will have a laminated photo ID. If applicants are ever uncomfortable with anyone claiming to be a disaster relief worker, they’re asked to not give out personal information and contact local law enforcement.

Up to date rumor and scam information is available in Florida at www. myfloridalegal.com, 1-866-966-7226, or through FEMA at www.fema.gov/ hurricane-irma-rumor-control.

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SEPTEMBER 20, 2017

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Bungalow Beach Resort, 2000 Gulf Drive N., Bradenton Beach, has won the Top Romance award in the U.S. by tripadvisor.com, and it is located right on the beach – the perfect place to escape between the rehearsal dinner, the ceremony and the reception. With the Gulf of Mexico just steps from your lushly landscaped cedar bungalow, it’s a great place for an extended stay after the bride and groom leave for their honeymoon.

If the bride and groom want to continue their stay, Bungalow Beach Resort, which also won the 2013 Excellence Award from tripadvisor.com, is a very popular honeymoon destination.

Originally a group of beachfront army barracks, each of the Bungalow Beach Resort units retains the old Florida charm that is Anna Maria Island, with modern conveniences inside.

And you will stay in luxury with personal touches like baskets of embroidered towels, flowers and candy. Don’t forget the free trolleys that run up and down the street outside.

From the road, Bungalow Beach Resort is famous for its white gazebo and lush and colorful flowers.

Whether you’re getting married or part of the wedding party, pick award-winning Bungalow Beach Resort as your home base where you will cherish those moments when you’re not involved with the ceremony. You’ll want to return when there is nothing to distract you from your stay.

Call Bungalow Beach Resort at 1-800-779-3601 or log onto www.bungalowbeach.com.

OPEN DAILY 7 AM - 9 PM

SEPTEMBER 20, 2017

www.amisun.com

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subimtted

Tara Whitmer and Justin Clemons were married on June 8, 2017, at the Sunset Tiki Hut at the Gulf Drive Cafe. Laura Snow, event manager at the Gulf Drive Cafe, coordinated the wedding. The couple honeymooned on an eastern Caribbean cruise before returning home to Columbus, Ohio.

Pidge Kelley Taylor and Mark Barreda were married on Anna Maria Island on July 14, 2017.

Chuck Caudill sang and played ukulele for their ceremony. Pidge and Mark honeymooned in San Francisco, Napa Valley, and Yosemite before returning home to Anna Maria Island.

Dara Caudill | www.islandphotography.org

Jen Crady, owner of AMI Health & Fitness, and Brian Sekel were married on the beautiful beach of Anna Maria Island on June 27, 2017. Chuck Caudill played ukulele and sang for the ceremony. Jen and Brian honeymooned in Puerto Rico before returning home to Ellenton, Fla.

Dara Caudill | www.islandphotography.org

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THE SUN

SEPTEMBER 20, 2017

Fortget it Irma - the wedding is on!

Cara Camm and Josh Lowery originally considered a Florida Keys wedding.

BY TOM VAUGHT SUN STAFF WRITER | tvaught@amisun.com

ANNA MARIA – Hurricane Irma almost played spoiler for one Indiana couple who had been planning their Monday evening wedding at the Sandbar restaurant for a year.

But with a lot of prayer and a boost from Mother Nature, the wedding went as planned.

For Cara Camm and Josh Lowery, of Jeffersonville, Ind., last week was a nightmare that didn’t pan out.

The couple has known each other for six years and got engaged in June 2016. They didn’t know where to have their wedding until a relative volunteered Manatee County.

“My grandma lives in Bradenton, and she suggested we look at Anna Maria Island,” Camm said.

“She said it’s beautiful and affordable, so we made some inquiries.

“The first call I got was from Patti (McKee, retired Chiles Group wedding coordinator),” Camm said. “She was very helpful and gave us a great price. It was perfect so we stopped looking.”

Camm said they got to see the restaurant in February and to meet

TOM VAUGHT | SUN

Cara Camm and Josh Lowery are married on the Gulf beach after waiting for Hurricane Irma to pass. with McKee, who set them up with a place to stay.

She said she was glad the search was over.

“We decided to get married on a Monday because it’s the start of the week, and the cost was a little lower,” Camm said. Then came the storm.

“It was the first test of our marriage,” she said. “We all kept the faith and prayed that the wedding would happen.”

Camm said they were overjoyed when they learned there was no storm surge, and they knew their

wedding would be perfect. Of course, they had to wait for the power to return.

“We had no power after the storm and when the power came back, we had two weddings Saturday and this one on Monday,” said Chiles Group’s Wedding Coordinator Christine Greene. “We wanted to make sure all of the weddings were perfect.”

Camm said they look forward to spending vacations and anniversaries on the Island in the future.

“We just love it here,” she said.

“It’s so laid back and beautiful.”

www.amisun.com

SEPTEMBER 20, 2017

Chamber meets in town

The Anna Maria Island Chamber of Commerce holds its monthly business card exchange at the Manatee Performing Arts Center at 502 3rd Ave, W., in Bradenton on Wednesday, Sept. 27, from 5 to 7 p.m. The cost to attend is $5 for members and $10 for

prospective members, and there will liquid refreshments and snacks. Call the Chamber at 941-778-1541 for more information.

Studio celebrates first decade The Studio at Gulf and Pine Celebrates

its 10-year anniversary with a special event called 10byTEN, involving local artists.

10byTEN is about small art and cradle painting boards measuring 10-by-10 inches are available from The Studio. The deadline for art submission is 3 p.m. on Oct. 21.

There will be an art sale at the artsHOP

THE SUN

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kickoff event on Nov. 9, at 6 p.m. at The Studio at Gulf and Pine with art, wine, music and light appetizers. The exhibition will hang Nov. 1 through Dec. 23.

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SEPTEMBER 20, 2017

941.779.2337 9:00 AM - 10:00 PM 7 DAYS A WEEK 5344 3 GULF DRIVE, HOLMES BEACH

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SEPTEMBER 20, 2017

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SEPTEMBER 20, 2017

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SEPTEMBER 20, 2017

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Cops and hurricanes

BY SEAN MURPHY SPECIAL TO THE SUN

I

t was 2004.

It was as if the Native American medicine men were still naming the years.

They were calling it “the year of the hurricanes.”

The weather channel guys kept saying that the hurricanes were lined up across the Atlantic and they were coming at us like freight trains.

It was really aggravating.

After the second storm we stopped taking down the plywood.

We lived inside our boxed, hot little homes and came out just to search for water and tuna fish.

The third storm had ambitions to be the biggie. The county emergency committee was describing nightmares of 18-foot storm surges

and 125 mile per hour eye walls.

My epiphany occurred the day before the storm while we were transporting the Island’s largest and most precious work of art.

Doc Andre Renard had painted “Ruby” and had let me hang it in a restaurant we had at the north end of the Island.

Ruby was big, real big. It was all of 8 feet by 8 feet.

It was a picture of a lady of years in a bright red dress dancing wildly against a background of supporting figures, who were also dancing wildly.

Some of them didn’t have any clothes on.

It was controversial and it was big and it was red.

There were two of us holding Ruby up in the back of a lawn trailer as we drove the painting down the Island to Andre’s house.

We looked weird - moving through empty streets like a large float in a small parade.

Those of us in the parade were the last visible residents. My family had been moved to the mainland and were ensconced in a hotel above flood plain exposure. All of the Island families had fled. There were just the cops left.

The cops were the only witnesses to our wild ride. They thought we were crazy as we moved through the deserted town.

But they were gracious and helpful and urgent in their entreaties to get us to leave before the Island became unsafe.

I asked one officer after another where their families were.

Their answers – with a sister or an uncle – or alone driving north – betrayed their fears.

Their families would have to fend for themselves without fathers and husbands because their fathers and husbands had to stay behind in harm’s way to protect our homes.

The homes of the people who got to flee the storm.

My epiphany was the realization that our cops and their families are constantly threatened and that they deserve our respect and our affection – and they deserve to be paid more.

The next time budgets are crunched at city hall remember Irma, when we fled, filled with fear and anxiety, and they had to stay behind.

At budget time there is always a self-important penny pincher who wants to block raises for our police.

We should make the penny pinchers parade through town with a big red picture of a naked lady. It’s a mindchanger.

Hug a cop today.

Sean Murphy is the head coach of the incredibly talented team that runs the Beach Bistro; its little sister, Eat Here; and its new craft cocktail bar, The Doctors Office. Some of his articles can be found on the Bistro’s web-site, www.beachbistro.com

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SEPTEMBER 20, 2017

SEPTEMBER 20, 2017

HURRICANE IRMA COVERAGE

THE SUN

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Evacuees find shelters with AMI Chamber's help

BY TOM VAUGHT SUN STAFF WRITER | tvaught@amisun.com

HOLMES BEACH – The uncertainty of Hurricane Irma’s path made Anna Maria Island a destination for people leaving their homes in the Florida Keys and southern areas of the state.

Unfortunately, they were then forced to leave the Island as the super-storm headed our way.

The Anna Maria Island Chamber of Commerce was instrumental in providing evacuees with available rooms as they fled their homes under a program called ESF-18, or the Emergency Support Function.

The process was simple – list the available rooms to other chambers so that people leaving their homes can find a room through their local chamber in advance.

“It’s a great program for those who need to mobilize in a hurry,” said AMI Chamber President Deb Wing. “After a hurricane hits, it’s even more important.”

Wing said the program could find shelter for those who lost their homes as well as responders to the area. She said it also helps keep the lines of communication open as to the availability of food, water and medical assistance.

After Ivan moved on, the Chamber listed local businesses that were open to help with rebuilding homes to mitigate further damage.

“We used our website and other local media to spread the word,” she said. “Our message was the positive news that we’re not in too bad of shape; there are others who needed help

worse.”

Wing said that spreading that message helps the resorts whose future customers might cancel their reservations when there is no need to.

As for Ivan’s effect on the Island economy, Wing said it's already in the slow season and some of the businesses were already closed for vacation.

Wing said the hurricane was a mixed bag for the Island because things had to come to a halt for a short time, but the Island was relatively unscathed.

She said after a prolonged bout of red tide that went away recently, this was not so bad, but it could have been.

Wing said she saw the businesses that were not boarded up before the storm.

“I think we need to do a better job next time,” she said.

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THE SUN

SEPTEMBER 20, 2017

Shearon sign raises questions Mayor Bill Shearon insists that a sign advertising his reelection bid complies with city code.

It’s just a sign, but it also a metaphor as to how Bill operates.”

John Chappie Vice Mayor

BY JOE HENDRICKS SUN CORRESPONDENT | jhendricks@amisun.com

BRADENTON BEACH – As he’s done during past elections, Mayor Bill Shearon has again erected a sign that promotes his political campaign in a manner he feels complies with the city’s land development code (LDC).

The two sides of Shearon’s Linger Longer resort sign are now covered with signs that say, “Elect ‘Bill’ William Shearon for Mayor.”

The signs appeared about two weeks ago, and Hurricane Irma inflicted some superficial damage to the signs last week.

The LDC says, “Political signs are exempt from sign permits; however, they shall be subject to state law. Each parcel may display political signs 30 days prior to any election and shall be removed seven days after the election.”

The city elections conclude Nov. 7, which means regular campaign signs cannot be displayed until early October.

Shearon claims his two-sided sign is not a political sign, but a modified version of the permanent sign that usually promotes his resort at 304 Gulf Dr. S. “It’s a permanent commercial sign, and I have so many square feet of any

joe hendricks | SUN

This sign advertising Bill Shearon’s reelection efforts has been the source of debate in past campaigns as well. wording that I want to put on it. I’m not restricted for any wording that I put on it. The only thing I can’t put on there is profanity,” he said last week.

Using that logic, Shearon agreed that any other business with a permitted permanent sign could do the same for another political candidate or cause.

When it was noted that Shearon’s permanent sign now contains a temporary campaign message, he said, “No, it’s my permanent sign. I can change the wording on my sign anytime.

That’s in the sign ordinance. It’s words, it has nothing to do with a campaign

sign. If it was a temporary campaign sign that’s a different part of the code.”

The LDC defines a permanent sign as “any sign affixed to a building or the ground in accordance with the Florida Building Code and any other applicable federal, state or local laws in a manner as to be immobile without the use of extraordinary means such as disassembly or relocation.”

The LDC defines a temporary sign as “any sign intended to be displayed for a specified and limited period of time,” and political signs are among the examples listed.

Enforcement issues

Shearon said city staff has not expressed to him any concerns about his sign.

“We’re looking into the issue,” Building Official Steve Gilbert said.

Code Enforcement Officer Gail Garneau recently contacted the Manatee County Supervisor of Election’s Office seeking clarity on the sign’s compliance with elections laws. The elections office issued no ruling, but sent her a document that referenced state election

laws, but not when a campaign sign can be displayed.

“I’m not the sign cop,” Supervisor of Elections Mike Bennett said on Friday.

Bennett said it’s up to the city to enforce its own sign regulations, or the Florida Commission on Ethics to address alleged campaign violations.

Chappie weighs in

Vice Mayor John Chappie is running against Shearon in the mayor’s race.

“I am in no way complaining about his sign, but I’ve been asked by a number of people what’s going on. It’s just a sign, but it also a metaphor as to how Bill operates. He says it’s not a political sign, therefore to him, it’s not a political sign,” Chappie said.

“I believe I clearly understand what the sign ordinance is talking about when it comes to political signs. If Bill disagrees, that’s his prerogative. I can twist words to comply with a personal agenda, but it’s not my way. That’s not something I would do,” he added.

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OUTDOORS

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Inshore fishing phenomenal Captain Dave White

Hopefully things are getting back to normal for everyone after the storm. We were very lucky.

Things on the water have made a bit of a fall trend in the past couple of weeks. The bait has been big, and the threadfin herring seem to have pushed out a bit. The bait is bigger and stays alive much longer in the cooler water.

Inshore, the fishing had been phenomenal. Redfish are being caught in most bays along the mangroves.

I'm chumming heavily with pilchards. Keeping the fish occupied is crucial when pulling one out of the school. Snook are pretty fired up as well.

Nearshore, the Spanish mackerel are going crazy.

Be sure to use long shanked hooks or a short piece of wire to avoid getting broken off on these toothy critters. Kingfish are starting to show up in good numbers as well. These fish are a fun fight and a tell tale sign of the coming of winter.

Hopefully, you all get a chance to get out and shake off that cabin fever.

Captain Dave White | submitted

Lord Kyle Worthington, of North Norfolk, UK, shows off a nice Kingfish caught on Sept. 16 with Captain David White, of Anna Maria Charters.

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THE SUN

REAL ESTATE

SEPTEMBER 20, 2017

Do you have great bones?

I

n humans, great bones are mostly God given. For instance, Audrey Hepburn and Charlton Heston were both born with great bones. The rest of us have to work at it, especially as we get older. But what about our homes? What exactly does it mean when someone says, “This house has great bones?”

Great bones in a home can be anything from architectural details to whimsy. Basically, it’s anything that catches your fancy because chances are that it will also catch the fancy of future buyers. So, let’s start with what is most important to home buyers on Anna Maria – water.

You could have a wooden box on the sand in Anna Maria and it would have good bones simply because of where it is. Nationally, waterfront homes are worth more than double the value of U.S. homes overall. This is according to a 2014 analysis by the real estate website Zillow. And despite all the controversy about flood insurance and environmental

Castles in the Sand Louise Bolger issues associated with waterfront living, this number is growing.

Twenty years ago, the difference was less than 65 percent, and I expect as less buildable waterfront property becomes available the differential will keep going up. Never-theless, in order to maintain your good waterfront bones, don’t forget to position the home on your waterfront lot to maximize the view.

After location, the layout of a home is really the framework or bones of the house. You know when a layout makes sense, spaces flow into each other in a natural order and provide a sensible function. Choppy little

rooms worked well before central heating and cooling but now just get in the way of everyday life.

Windows that are symmetric and line up perfectly on each side of a fireplace or doorway makes the room look well planned. The bones in a room with well-planned window placement makes sense structurally and will always be an asset.

Homes with great bones generally also have great high ceilings, an irreplaceable asset for waterfront living. Also getting back to windows – tall well-proportioned windows to let in the light and views are something that is almost impossible to add later on, so already having them in a home definitely goes in the good bones column.

Finally, quality craftsmanship can never be replaced. Charming details that will stand the test of time, plaster walls, original fireplaces, custom ceiling beams, coffered ceilings, outstanding moldings, historic wood floors,

vintage lighting and hardware are all part of having good bones. These irreplaceable details of a home can never be copied. They’re unique to the good bones of the house.

In addition, the bones of a waterfront home should have multiple outdoor living space.

Covered decks for outdoor entertaining and patios that merge with the sand are aspects that are difficult to achieve later on as an add on.

Mostly good bones can be just a personal preference – the little quirky things that talk to your personality and lifestyle – a wish list of qualities that consist of both good features for resale value and the ones that make your heart sing.

You may not have been born with great bones but you do have a good chance of making sure the home of your dreams has the star quality that constitutes good bones.

SEPTEMBER 20, 2017

HURRICANE IRMA COVERAGE

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29

pier: Closed due to hurricane damage FROM PAGE 1

Commission discussion

Last week, Murphy took each of the five city commissioners on separate tours of the pier. Murphy and Commissioner Dale Woodland spent about 20 minutes at the pier end Thursday afternoon examining the damage. Murphy said he thought the plank damage was caused by waves and the roof damage by high winds.

He also said he believed the restaurant’s smashed glass door was an act of vandalism associated with the theft of beer.

Woodland suggested it might be a long time before the pier reopens, and he expressed concerns about the impact a prolonged closing would have on the restaurant and bait shop employees, who work for the city’s longtime pier tenant, Mario Schoenfelder.

The pier damage was discussed at the Thursday, Sept. 14, commission meeting.

Murphy said he already spoke with Schoenfelder, who’s in Germany, and his onsite manager, Dave Sork. Murphy said City Attorney Becky Vose is researching the city’s lease options, but it was premature to discuss any lease-

joe hendricks | SUN

Mayor Dan Murphy, right, and Commissioner Dale Woodland examined the damage to the T-end of the Anna Maria City Pier Thursday afternoon. related actions.

“The cost of all this is the city’s responsibility. The city’s in charge.

We’re the ones that have to make the decisions on what’s going to happen,” Murphy said.

“The critical thing at this point is the

structural engineering report. Included in that will be an estimate of the closing time, how long it’s going to take to repair it and the correct way to repair it,” he added.

A contractor who assessed the roof damage told Murphy he didn’t recom-

mend simply replacing the missing roof materials. He said there are no hurricane straps holding the roof in place and the roof supports are held in place only by rusted nails.

“When I was out there, there were new nails in old boards that hadn’t held in the stringers, which says to me the stringers are rotten,” Commissioner Doug Copeland added.

“At this point I can’t give you an estimate as to how long the pier’s going to be closed. This is pretty significant damage, and it’s going to take some time. We will get it done as quickly as possible, but it going to have to be done right and according to code,” Murphy said.

He suggested the commission have an emergency meeting this week to discuss the Ayres’ report findings.

“I don’t want the bureaucracy to slow this down. We’re in charge; we can get it done,” Murphy said.

The commission authorized Murphy to spend up to $35,000 on the Ayres assessment.

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www.amisun.com

THE SUN

Kristin Swain | Sun

Roser cleanup More than a dozen people clear the grounds Sept. 14 at Roser Memorial Community Church in Anna Maria, helping to restore the church campus in the aftermath of Hurricane Irma.

cell towers: Damaged FROM PAGE 5

When the City Commission discussed Bazzy concerns on Wednesday, Sept.

13, Shearon said the city property is leased to the tower owners, and the city has no legality liability for the tower.

Later in the week, Bazzy said he has no desire to sue the city, but he’s concerned someone may sue the marina if they get injured by falling tower debris while on the marina property.

Bazzy spoke to a SBA representative on Friday and received encouraging news.

“They said they’d take care of the damage, which I thought they would.

More important than that they’re changing the locking mechanisms surrounding these shrouds on the towers.

When these panels get replaced they’re going to put these new locks on them.

"They have not had any panels blow off towers that have the new locking system. That’s what I was looking for, so I feel a lot better,” Bazzy said.

Anna Maria tower

Tarpon Towers still owns the tower that stands next to Anna Maria City Hall. Mayor Dan Murphy said he spoke with a company representative last week, but has not yet gone into detail about the panel replacement.

When contacted over the weekend, Tarpon Towers Chief Operating Officer Brett Buggeln said, “We are evaluating several secondary safety straps and mechanisms for several of our towers of similar construction and may add one of those solutions to our Anna Maria tower once we receive the replacement shrouds for the ones damaged by the storm.”

SEPTEMBER 20, 2017

HURRICANE IRMA COVERAGE

SEPTEMBER 20, 2017

help: After the storm FROM PAGE 10

clean flooded homes and businesses and remove debris. Dates for the trip are to be determined. For more information, contact Rev. Neil Crowell at 980-521-7129.

The church also is seeking volunteers to provide a trailer or truck to help carry supplies to south Florida along with supplies to fill the vehicle. Items needed include cleaning and disinfecting supplies, nonperishable

food, bottled water, toiletries, pet food and supplies and baby food and supplies.

For more information, contact Rev. Neil Crowell at 980-521-7129.

Food and supplies

Not sure what to do with those leftover hurricane supplies? Consider donating them to people in need affected by the hurricane.

The Island churches are banding together

to help collect food and supplies for those in need after the storm through the All Island Denominations food bank. Items critically needed include toilet paper, bars of soap, shampoo, juice in small cans or boxes, cereal, oatmeal, rice meals, canned meat, soup, tea bags, oil, canned vegetables, pasta, pasta sauce and jams or jellies. AID also accepts cash donations to help provide financial assistance for those needing help with rent, utilities or food.

Drop off points for donations are available at The Episcopal Church of the Annun-

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31

ciation, 4408 Gulf Drive W., Holmes Beach; Roser, 512 Pine Ave., Anna Maria; Harvey Memorial Community Church, 300 Church Ave., Bradenton Beach; St. Bernard Catholic Church, 248 S. Harbor Drive, Holmes Beach; and CrossPointe Fellowship, 8605 Gulf Drive, Holmes Beach.

CrossPointe also is hosting its own relief drive to provide assistance to those affected by the hurricane. For more information, call 941-778-0719 or e-mail info@mycpf.org.

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www.amisun.com

THE SUN

TOWN CRIER Seniors talk trash Senior Adventures will meet an hour earlier, 9 a.m. on Friday, Sept. 22, to take a tour of the Manatee/Sarasota recycling trash sorting facility in Sarasota that was dedicated in February of this year. The group will depart from the Annie Silver Community Center, 103 23rd St. N., Bradenton Beach at 9 a.m. They will stop for lunch after the tour. Call Kaye Bell at 941-538-0945 to reserve your seat.

Transplanting plants As part of its celebration of National Estuaries Week, the Manatee County Parks and Natural Resources Department is asking for a plant pull at Perico Preserve, 11700 Manatee Ave. W., on Friday, Sept. 22, from 8 to 11:30 a.m.

The harvested plants will be replanted at the Robinson Expansion the next day to help restore the old farmland to its natural state.

This program is sponsored by Restore America’s Estuaries, CITGO Petroleum Corporation, Tampa Bay Estuary Program, and Sarasota Bay Estuary

Program and it suitable for all ages.

Reservations are required by e-mailing coral.bass@mymanatee.org or calling 941-742-5757, ext. 2.

Robinson Preserve by night The Manatee County Parks and Natural Resources Department is sponsoring a sunset starlight paddle at Robinson Preserve at 1704 99th St. N.W., on Friday, Sept. 22, from 6:30 to 8:30 p.m. Explore the salt marches with WayneAdventures and take advantage of low tide to watch the sunset from the sandbars of the Manatee River. Bring your camera for great shots of egrets, herons and roseate spoonbills.

This is an easy paddle that can be enjoyed by beginning kayakers. Participants must have their own canoe or kayak and safety gear including a light.

All participants must wear a life jacket.

Reservations are required. Call 941742-5757, ext. 7

Give a hoot The Manatee County Library System and the Parks and Natural Resources Department have teamed up to present a program about burrowing owls on Tuesday, Sept. 26, from 10 to 11 a.m. at the Island Branch Library, 5701 Marina

SEPTEMBER 20, 2017

Drive, Holmes Beach. Hear a story about a family of burrowing owls and learn even more about these fascinating creatures through interactive games and activities. The program is suitable for preschool age children. For more information, call 941-748-4501 ext. 6044.

for $95 and heart scan-echocardiogram for $95 or all six tests for only $179.

Blood tests, liver, cholesterol, PSA and TSH tests are also available. To register, call 888-667-7587.

Story time at the library

The Cortez Nautical Flea Market will be held at the Florida Maritime Museum, 4415 119th St.W., Cortez, on Saturday, Oct. 14, from 8 a.m. to 2 p.m.

Additional parking is available at the F.I.S.H. Preserve. For more information, contact the museum at 941-708-6120 or e-mail kristin.sweeting@manateeclerk. com. Rain date is Saturday, Oct. 21.

This event is sponsored in part by Southwinds magazine and The Anna Maria Island Sun newspaper. Partners include Cortez Village Historical Society and the Florida Institute for Saltwater Heritage.

For those interested in being a vendor, there is a $25 fee until Sept. 30, and space is very limited. Spots may still be available after Sept. 30, but the vendor fee will increase to $35.

Others who don’t want to rent a booth may donate their gently used boating and fishing gear to the Friends of the Florida Maritime Museum to be sold at their fundraising booth.

Trudy Bell, the children’s librarian, reads stories on Tuesday, Sept. 26, at 10 a.m. Kids between toddler and five years of age are welcome as are their parents at the Island Branch Library, 5701 Marina Drive, Holmes Beach. This is a fun event for the kids and their parents with music, dancing and a craft or two. For more information, call the library at 778-6341.

Catch it early You could be alerted to possible stroke or other health problems by taking Prevention Plus Stroke and Vascular Screening offered on Wednesday, Sept. 27, at The Center, 407 Magnolia, Anna Maria. The screenings are being offered at reduced prices. They include stroke/carotid ultrasound for $40, abdominal aortic aneurysm for $40, arterial disease test for $40, thyroid ultrasound for $40, abdominal ultrasound

Bargains ahoy

www.amisun.com

SEPTEMBER 20, 2017

City staffs praised City staffs responded to Hurricane Irma with flying colors.

Official Steve Gilbert and the Building Department.

BY JOE HENDRICKS

Anna Maria

SUN CORRESPONDENT | jhendricks@amisun.com

ANNA MARIA ISLAND – City employees in Bradenton Beach and Anna Maria received kudos last week for their hurricane-related efforts.

Bradenton Beach Mayor Bill Shearon thanked Lt. John Cosby, who also serves as the city’s emergency management coordinator.

“L.T. was the maestro of the orchestra.

He had a plan and he followed a plan.

Words can’t express the job he did.”

Shearon thanked Police Chief Sam Speciale for staying in constant communication.

Regarding Public Works Director Tom Woodard, Shearon said, “Tom and his guys were the last ones to leave and the first ones to come back. When I came back it was just amazing to see how clear everything was.”

Woodard thanked Bradenton Beach Marina president Mike Bazzy for providing Public Works with additional fuel.

Shearon praised City Clerk Terri Sanclemente and her staff for keeping the city’s records safe and he thanked Building

Anna Maria Mayor Dan Murphy said, “Our staff has come through with flying colors. They amazed me.”

In praise of Deputy Clerk Debbie Haynes, Murphy said, “Debbie was doing web updates during the storm.”

“I ran into a citizen this morning who said ‘I couldn’t find any information.’ I opened up my phone and said CityofAnnaMaria.com. Sign up,” Commissioner Doug Copeland said of the resulting automatic e-mail notifications distributed.

“I kept telling people in Holmes Beach to get on our website,” Commissioner Carol Carter added.

Murphy thanked City Clerk LeAnne Addy and said “Everybody was on top of things.”

Regarding Sgt. Russell Schnering and the sheriff’s deputies, Murphy said, “Russ and his team did a remarkable job.”

“As did public works,” Copeland added.

City resident Mike Coleman said, “What I’ve witnessed here from the city officials, staff and deputies is truly remarkable. I think that attitude and effort by the staff is a reflection of the leadership. I’m very proud to be part of this community.”

Supplies for the Florida Keys The Center of Anna Maria Island will be collecting supplies for people affected by Hurricane Irma in the lobby, 407 Magnolia Ave., Anna Maria, until Thursday at 5 p.m.

Center officials will then take them to the MI-BOX mobile storage located at 5508 Marina Drive. This container will be going to two locations via boat. One to Marathon, thanks to the Haulin Grass Fishing Team, and another to Key West via boat by another source.

Things needed include contractor bags, non perishable foods, paper products, cleaning materials, first aid kits, Fix a Flat, canned items with pop tops, sanitizers, bleach/vinegar, tarps, water purification tablets, bug spray, cortisone, flashlights with batteries, sterno, charcoal, cooking tools, baby wipes, hygiene items, small freezers and small refrigerators.

THE SUN

BEACH BEAT Anna Maria

9/5, lost property, 200 bock of Chilson Avenue. The complainant’s recycling bin is missing.

Holmes Beach

9/1, driving with no valid license, 3300 Gulf Drive. The officer ran a computer check and found the owner had no license, so he stopped her and issued a ticket.

9/2, DUI, Jessie’s Island Store, 5424 Marina Drive. The officer was parked near the store when two men informed him there was a female passed out in a car at Jessie’s. The officer finally awakened the woman and noticed signs of intoxication. He had her perform a field sobriety test and arrested her.

9/3, driving with no valid license, Manatee Public Beach, 4000 Gulf Drive. The officer ran a computer check and found the owner had no license so he stopped her and issued a ticket.

0/3, driving with a suspended license, possession of marijuana, 200 Haverkos Ct. The officer ran a computer check of

Obituaries Elaine Grace Newhart Elaine Grace Newhart, 72, of Holmes Beach, Fla., passed away September 13, 2017, from heart failure.

Elaine was born on Sept. 22, 1944, in Annville, Pa., to John and Jayne Salem.

After graduating from East Stroudsburg University, Elaine moved to Sarasota, Fla., where she met her loving husband of 52 years, Barry Newhart, and taught elementary school.

Elaine and Barry settled down in Lancaster, Pa., where they raised their son and two daughters. Elaine was the most caring, loving and nurturing mother, wife and friend. She always sacrificed her needs for the good of

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the subject and found his license was suspended for failure to complete a substance abuse program. He stopped the driver and while checking out the driver, he smelled the odor of burnt marijuana. He placed the driver under arrest and found a marijuana cigarette inside the vehicle.

9/4, DUI, 700 Manatee Ave. The officer was following the defendant eastbound on Manatee Avenue and paced him at 70 mph in a 35 mph zone before the bridge and up to 90 mph on the bridge. After pulling him over, the officer noticed signs of intoxication in the driver. He asked the driver where he was coming from and he said “the Sports,” in Bradenton Beach. He said he had consumed three beers. The officer had him perform a field sobriety test and arrested him based in the results.

9/4, disturbance, Manatee County Beach, 4000 Gulf Drive. Officers responded to a report of a disturbance on the beach.

They found two groups of females with children yelling obscenities and racial slurs. There was no violence and the two, groups left. One accused them of being racist for not arresting the other group.

her family and loved ones. She was a patient, supportive and encouraging woman, and she relished being a mother and grandmother. Elaine never lost her temper and always had a smile, even when times were tough.

She loved learning, gardening, music, reading, playing games, laughing and spending time with her family and friends. As a result of her loving, generous spirit, she was loved by many and her influence will forever remain in the lives of all who knew her.

Her beautiful life will forever be cherished by her husband, Barry Newhart; her daughter and son-in-law, Torry and Carmine Vitolo; her son, Bryson Newhart; her daughter and son-in-law, Lauren and Colin Bourgoing; and her two adoring granddaughters, Zoé and Ella.

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www.amisun.com

WMFR adopts budget, discusses projects With no public input offered and a unanimous vote from commissioners, WMFR officially has an approved budget for the 2017-18 fiscal year.

BRADENTON — Leadership at West Manatee Fire Rescue district are officially ready for the beginning of a new fiscal year.

In the event another storm comes through while the district still owns the property, Bishop said he’d like to have a less time-consuming option.

He asked Chief Tom Sousa to investigate hurricane shutter options, particularly Armor Screens, an easy to store option that could be included with the building should it sell to another owner.

“It’s a rational approach to this building,” he said of purchasing some sort of hurricane protection.

His fellow commissioners agreed, directing Sousa to come back at a future meeting with options for consideration.

Budget

Meeting Room Policy

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

The final public hearing for the district’s proposed 2017-18 budget came and went Sept. 13 with no members of the public offering input. The $7,492,000 budget passed in a unanimous commission vote. Commissioner Al Robinson was absent.

Also passing with a unanimous vote of commissioners present was the 2017 fire assessment certification resolution. The public hearing held for the fire assessment certification resolution provided an opportunity for district property owners to appeal the non-ad valorem assessment rate charged on trim notices.

Storm Preparations

With the threat of Hurricane Irma past, fire commissioners turned their attention to preparations for future storms, namely securing the district’s administration building.

While the three WMFR fire stations are built to withstand strong winds, the administration building, a renovated doctor’s office, was not. Commissioner David Bishop said firefighters spent valuable hours before the storm boarding up windows and securing the building.

Another project up for discussion was proposed changes to the district’s meeting room policy.

Currently, private and government organizations are allowed to use the district’s commission chambers with few restrictions, which has caused some concern about liability for commissioners.

Sousa suggested only allowing use of the building during the district’s Monday through Friday business hours with a fee charged for use of entities located outside of the district.

Fees paid to rent the space would be allocated to the district’s general fund.

The new requirements would make it so that a member of WMFR’s staff is always present while the building is in use without having to pull a firefighter off duty.

Bishop suggested giving groups the option of hiring an off-duty law enforcement officer to be present during night and weekend meetings.

“If someone wants to use a public space, they should pay for security,” Bishop said. “It doesn’t need to be our staff.”

The discussion is continued to the October meeting.

FREE HOME

DELIVERY!

SEPTEMBER 20, 2017

SEPTEMBER 20, 2017

HURRICANE IRMA COVERAGE

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35

power: Restoration top priority FROM PAGE 3

to work. Working in conjunction with Mayor Dan Murphy, Addy arranged for the city to purchase the used generator from the city of Eau Claire for $9,500.

“She pulled up in the parking lot to hook it up, got out of the car and the power came on,” Murphy joked during Thursday’s meeting.

City Commissioner Brian Seymour regained power at his home and his Anna Maria General Store & Deli Wednesday night. The General Store reopened Friday morning despite losing a great deal of inventory due to the power outage.

Dips Ice Cream owner Vic Mattay said he lost his entire ice cream inventory, and he suspected the same happened to the Island’s other ice cream shops.

Commission candidate Laurie Jo Higgins and her family got their power back Friday morning.

“We have power, thank you Lord. Last night was brutal,” she wrote on her Facebook page.

Customers with power restored Customers still without power submitted

A check of Florida Power and Light’s Power Tracker webpage Monday afternoon indicated there were still 9,520 Manatee County residents without power as of 3:30 p.m. According to the Power Tracker, 132,710 of the county’s 184,900 FPL customers were affected by Hurricane Irma and 123,190 customers’ service had been restored.

Spectrum response

On Friday, Joe Durkin, Spectrum’s Director of Communications for Florida, explained his company’s service restoration challenges.

“The number one cause of outage for our customers was the loss of commercial power. Our network relies on commercial power to deliver our services. In some cases, you may have power restored, but one of our network hubs somewhere

MAGGIE FIELD | SUN

This plea for power was in the yard of a Holmes Beach residence Monday evening. down the line does not have power. So, you might have lights on, but no Spectrum services,” he said.

Durkin said some Spec-

trum lines and equipment were damaged, but most of the interruptions were attributed to power loss.

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FUN IN THE SUN

Across 1 Amount to 5 Evening affair 11 Cavern critter 14 Clarinet cousin 15 Many charity golf tournaments 16 Wall St. specialist 17 24-hour broadcaster that keeps you up-to-date 19 CBS police series with three spin-offs 20 Moog, briefly 21 Detroit NFLer 22 Hershey's toffee bar 23 Music from Glenn Miller, Tommy Dorsey et al.

26 Chintzy 29 Type of waste pump 30 Buyer's financing 31 Army installation 35 Last Marx brother, alphabetically 38 Well-suited 39 Ship's area for medical assistance 41 Spy novelist Deighton 42 Bette's "Divine" nickname 44 Bills at bars 45 Almanac tidbit 46 Long-running dispute 48 Braggart's retort 50 Singer dubbed "King of Country" 55 Doctor Zhivago's love 56 Island band The __ Men 57 Garlicky mayo 61 Musician's suffix 62 Saturated like the ends of 17-, 23-, 39- and 50-Across?

64 Lawn coating

65 Exercise pieces 66 Russian range or river 67 Symphonic gp. inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame in 2017 68 Head out 69 Start of a choosing rhyme Down 1 Pen occupants 2 Do what's asked 3 Scattered, as seeds 4 Nuclear restraint topic 5 Globe shape: Abbr.

6 Dental care brand 7 Ancient Aegean land 8 Talked nonstop 9 Removes errors from 10 Bilingual subj.

11 "Just in case" strategy 12 Fiery crime 13 "Fun, Fun, Fun" car in a 1960s song 18 Greenside golf shot 22 "Win __, lose ... " 24 Mongolian desert 25 Postwar supermodel Parker

Answers to 09-13-17 Crossword Puzzle.

26 Mollusk in a red or white linguine sauce 27 Arizona native 28 Consumes enough to nourish mother and unborn child 32 Play a part 33 Calypso cousin 34 Recede, as the tide 36 Lats relatives 37 Not fooled by 39 Highly self-satisfied 40 Singapore's continent 43 Blood bank supply 45 Exhaustion 47 Candidates' face-off 49 "So long, Paulo!"

50 Soar without effort 51 Painter's stand 52 Stopped slouching 53 Silents star Bara 54 Not as prevalent 58 Kid lit monster 59 Low-fat 60 In an aimless fashion 62 Married 63 WWII carrier

SEPTEMBER 20, 2017

SEPTEMBER 20, 2017

classified

ANNOUNCEMENTS 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 ROSER FOOD BANK needs donations of cash and non-perishable food. Donations boxes are located at the Church, Moose Club, Walgreen's and The Anna Maria Island Sun Newspaper (corner of Gulf and Palm).

AUTOMOTIVE SALES & SERVICE 2007 HONDA SILVERWING For Sale. One owner, 600 cc auto transmission motorcycle, 15000 miles. Many additions, well maintained, garage kept.

Excellent condition. $4000 Call 941-778-2553

BABY SITTER RED CROSS CERTIFIED baby sitter. Honor student.

Call or text Isabel 941-5457995

BOATS: PARTS & SERVICES & SALES ISLAND BOAT SALES Not Using Your Boat, Let's Sell It. "Business On A Hand Shake" I Also Buy Boats. Dave/ Owner 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 TOTAL HOME SERVICE CLEANING : Residential, Commercial & Rentals.

Professional and Reliable. Call 941-756-4570

THOMPSON CLEANING SERVICE CommercialResidential-Marine.

Island Based Company.

Seasonal Deep Cleaning-Weekly-Occasional.

Call for Free Estimate.

941-281-4951

Call us today! 941-778-3986

AUTHORITY ONE SERVICES. Residential/Commercial/Vacation Rentals & Construction Cleaning.

Also Power Washing, Windows, Paver Sealing & Roof Cleaning.

Ask about your Senior Citizens Discount Call 941-251-5948 or 941565-3931

COMMERCIAL SALES NEED 9300 Sq Ft WAREHOUSE to store your (CAR) collection?

Bradenton, near Airport. $619,000 Island Real Estate Ask 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

EMPLOYMENT

PART TIME CLERK position available. Nights & weekend shifts. Gift shop on AMI. Retirees Welcome.

Call Manger 813-409-7540 MAINTENANCE POSITION: St Bernard Church on AMI is seeking a full time maintenance person. Qualified candidates will be familiar with maintenance items normally associated with commercial properties. Full Time position with benefits. Subject to background check. Call for interview appointment 941-778-4769

ESTATE SALE ESTATE SALE SATURDAY September 23. 9:30am3pm. 523 56th St Holmes Beach (located on Bay).

Leather sofa, dinette, bar stools, bedroom furniture, curio, Lladros, dolls, collectibles, kitchen ware, lamps and much more!

Sale conducted by Palma Sola Sales. Numbers given out at 8am. See pictures at estatesales.net

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

FOR SALE BE FIRST IN YOUR NEIGHBORHOOD! Bat House made of cedar. Hang in back yard. Bats eat 3000 bugs a night. $45. Call 941778-5345 BAR STOOLS (4). Light wood, palm tree hand painted on seat. 24” tall $25 for all 4. Call 941776-5774 FRONTGATE BALEARES 5-PIECE White Sectional Lounger with Canopy.

Blue cushions, 4 throw pillows. Good condition.

New $2,000. Asking $200.

Holmes Beach Call 309472-2849

HAULING SITE CLEAN-UP to trash outs we can handle it all.

Call us for your dumpsters/ trash needs today 941-7538772

HOME IMPROVEMENTS

HURRICANE DAMAGE? MASTER Carpenter.

Fences, Decking, Docks, Timber Repairs. Large or Small Repairs. Richard 941-448-3571 Local Resident.

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 # CRC1327296.

Call Jerry Kern 941-7781115 www.kernconstructioninc.com “HONEY DO" HOME Repairs & Handyman Services.

35 yrs experience. Painting, drywall, tile, woodwork. All tasks. Call 941-896-5256 or 941-807-5256 www.honeydohomerepairinc.com

THE SUN

HANDYMAN. RETIRED ENGINEER. Free estimates.

“No job too Small”. Repairs, replacements, improvements, wall TV’s, shelves, cabinets, calking etc. Call Jim 941-448-7806

LOST GOLD BRACELET with toggle clasp & charm with 50th anniversary engraved.

Sentimental value. Lost in vicinity of Palm Ave. in Anna Maria. Call 407-8730078.

GET’R DONE DRYWALL, INC Specializing in Remodels & Repairs. Island Resident for 18 years. Call Neil Cell 941-962-1194

LOST: LADIES AVIATOR sunglasses on Holmes Beach, 65th street. Wed 6/28 Sunset. Reward. 813546-3982

WALY PRECISION PAINTING: painting, drywall, stucco, and remodeling, commercial/residential, licensed & insured. Call 941-448-1928 or 941-4656324 www.WalyPrecisionPainting.us

LOST MY GRANDMOTHER'S gold wedding band (initials inside and date) at Coquina Beach area. Reward.

Call 407-579-1621

DECKOUT MASTER CARPENTER Everything Patio & Dock Decking Work Repair, Replace, Maintenance Work, Cleaning, Treatments, New Decks.

Also Handyman/Painting work to home or office.

Call RICHARD Bespoke Service 941-448-3571 Island Resident.

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

Call Rafael 941-778-4823 or Veronik 941-526-7941 SHELL DELIVERED AND spread $55/yd. Hauling all kinds of gravel, mulch, top soil with free estimates. Call Larry at 941-795-7775, "shell phone" 941-720-0770 STRAIGHT SHOT LANDSCAPE. Specializing in Old Florida Seashell driveways and scapes. Also Rock, Mulch, & Soil. Free estimates. Call Shark Mark 941-301-6067 STORM CLEANUP-TREE trimming, cut downs. AlsoStorm Damage Repairs to House, Fence, Shed etc.

Small jobs Welcome. Call Bill Witaszek 941-307-9315

LOST & FOUND FOUND NECKLACE PENDANT near Anna Maria Post office. Call 941-7733182 LOST DOG BLACK Chihuahua gray on face 14 years old. Call 941-705-5574.

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

TWO MEN and a TRUCK. Movers who care. Local and Long distance. www. twomen.com Call 941-3591904. We sell boxes!

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 941794-0455 PROFESSIONAL PAINTING SERVICES. Prompt & Reliable. Meticulous, Thorough, Quality Workmanship. Interior/Exterior. Wall paper removal..

Also minor repairs & carpentry. Free written detailed estimates. Bill Witaszek 941-307-9315 BAYSIDE COMMERCIAL PAINTING. David Padyani Call 941-565-9446 or Larry Zimmer 941-2248123 Licensed & Insured

PERSONAL SERVICES NEED MATH TUTOR? I am a Certified 6th-12th Grade Math Teacher with 30 years experience tutoring. Call 941-5244177

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PETS ARE YOU WANTING to vacation and not worry if your pet is lonely. I will overnight in your home, so your animal can stay in his own environment. Home Sitting is also available.

Great References. Call Mary 941-405-2496

POOL SERVICES FOUR SEASONS POOL SERVICE. AMI & West Bradenton. Certified Pool Operator. Residential/commercial. Chemical Service Licensed & Insured. Call Dennis Clark 941-737-5657 COLE'S TROPICAL POOL SERVICE Call Cole Bowers for all your pool maintenance needs! Affordable and Dependable!! 941-7131893

PRINTING CUSTOM DIGITAL PRINTING "Your printing dream to reality" Specializing in Dye sublimation Printing.

Graphic Design. Performance Active ware. Logo Design. Call Rhonda 330-550-4847

PROFESSIONAL PRESSURE & WINDOW WASHING AUTHORITY ONE CLEANING : Residential, Commercial, Construction and Vacation Rentals . Also available Power Washing, Roof Cleaning and Windows.

Call 941-251-5948

REAL ESTATE HOMES & CONDOS FOR SALE

FROM THE HIGH $200’s. Only minutes from the beach, this new active adult community is perfectly located just south of Manatee Ave, off Village Green Pkwy.

Perfectly designed, open 2BR or 3BR/2BA plus den & 2CG floor plans.

Luxurious amenities, pool, spa, gym, pickle ball and fenced-in dog park. HOA only $190/ month. Models open daily. Contact us 941254-3330 www.MirabellaFlorida.com

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REAL ESTATE HOMES & CONDOS FOR SALE

PERICO BAY CLUB! Open & Bright, with high ceilings! Updated kitchen & near pool!

2BR/2BA - $212,000 Call Anna Maria Sales Team 941-773-0165

113 BEACH AVE 3BR/3BA Pool Home. Great location West of Gulf Drive with Direct beach access! $1,055,000 Call Charles Buky Coldwell Banker 941228-6086 CANAL FRONT HOMES Holmes Bch - Key Royale GULF FRONT CONDOS Gulf Place, La Casa L’Plage, Waters Edge & MORE. Island Real Estate ASK Alan Galletto 941-232-2216 SLIGHTLY OFF THE ISLAND. 3BR/2BA completely renovated Lake House, five miles from the beach.

No Condo/HOA Fees, No Deed Restrictions, No Traffic. Huge Boat/RV Storage Area $334,900. www.6909-32nd.com. For Sale By Owner. 941-7955225 HARBOUR ISLE on Anna Maria Sound coach home, 2289 sq ft, 3BR/2BA, screened lanai, retreat, 2 car garage, gated, Beach Club, New marina under construction. summer special $599,900. Must see!

Call today 941-779-4999 Dave Lorman Re/Max Alliance Group

Call us today! 941-778-3986

RENTALS: ANNUAL BRADENTON: 1BR/2BA upstairs condo on 75th St. near St. Peter & Paul . Water, sewer basic cable incl. $900mo $900 security dep. $100 application fee on site.

Application approval required. 2-3 bedroom executive level townhouse in gated community with Bayview, 2 car garage, private elevator, treetop loft , Almost 2200 S/F. Many amenities including kayaks, pools, workout center, restaurant and bar all on site. Application approval required.Ask for Ed DUNCAN REAL ESTATE 941-779-0304 www. teamduncan.com

ANNUAL RENTAL and CONDOMINIUM Association management serviced by (2) offices open 7 days a week! Contact junew@ islandreal.com – 941-3451295 - Island Real Estate of Anna Maria Island, Inc.

2BR/2BA/1 CAR GARAGEsingle family home. $1400/ mo annual lease. Cortez area. 2BR/2BA furnished condo at West Bay Cove.

Annual lease $1600/mo.

Call A Paradise 941-7784800 ANNUAL RENTALS- Gulf Front 1BR/1BA $950/mo No pets/Non-Smoking; Steps to Beach 1BR/1BA $950/mo, Non-Smoking; Holmes Beach 2BR/1.5BA, carport, storage, W/D hookups $1,650/mo. Non-Smoking. Call Fran Maxon Real Estate for details 941-778-2307.

ANNUAL HOLMES BEACH 2BR/2BA. Steps to Beach & Shops includes Dishwasher, Washer/Dryer trash. No Smoking/No Pets $1695/ mo + utilities. First, Last & Security. Call 860-9223857 TWO STORY 3BR/2BA Townhouse in Bradenton Beach. Large master bedroom w/ large Jacuzzi bath tub, separate shower. Steps to Beach. View of Gulf & Bay. Large deck. Washer/ Dryer, Parking for 3 cars.

Available Now. $1800/ mo Call 941-782-8556

SEPTEMBER 20, 2017

ANNUAL RENTAL: Anna Maria City, 2BR/2BA half duplex, totally remodeled, unfurnished. NO PETS! $1,500/mo - 1st, last, and security req'd. Call Sato Real Estate, Inc. at 941778-7200 or email monica@satorealestate. com

RENTALS: SEASONAL & VACATION TIFFANY PLACE Gulf Front Condo for Rent Incredible views from living room and master bedroom. 2BR/2BA Green Real Estate Call 941-778-0455 ANNA MARIA ISLAND, Fl Condos. Pool beach access, fully equipped $650-$800/ wk Redekercondos.com 941-704-7525 or 941-7781915 SUMMER WEEKLY RENTALS Available: 2BR/1BA Gulf front from $1,100 per week. 2BR with sleeping loft Bayfront from $1,100 per week, 4BR/3BA Bayside from $1,450 per week. No pools. 2018 SEASONAL RENTALS Available: 2BR/1BA Gulf front from $3,850 per month, 2BR with sleeping loft from $3,850 per month. Three month minimum. Horizon Realty of Anna Maria 941-778-0426 kringco@ tampabay.rr.com

GREAT SUMMER RATES! Weekly, Monthly.

3BR/2BA NW Bradenton. Call Grace 941-2012190

TREE SERVICES STORM CLEANUP-TREE trimming, cut downs. AlsoStorm Damage Repairs to House, Fence, Shed etc.

Small jobs Welcome. Call Bill Witaszek 941-307-9315

TRANSPORTATION AMI TAXI metered-on-callcards accepted. Airport: Tampa $95, Sarasota $40, Clearwater $85, Orlando $165. Call 800-301-4816. amitaxi4u@gmail.com, www.amitaxi.com ANYTIME TRANSPORTATION to all airports, appointments, casino, cruises, etc. Tampa $60. Sarasota $30. Pets welcome. Very dependable. Reasonable rates. Contact Jeanne.

941-779-5095 ADMIRAL TOWN CAR Professional chauffeur, taxi prices! Airports (1@ $75, 10 $150 to Tampa), Appointments anywhere.

Credit cards accepted. Phil 941-320-1120 admiraltowncar@gmail.com, Licensed & Insured

ROGER'S AIRPORT SERVICE. Tampa, St. Pete/ Clearwater, Sarasota/ Bradenton. Call Roger 941773-1469

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SEPTEMBER 20, 2017

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

HAULING

painting

home improvement

transportation HOME SITTING / PET SITTING

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SEPTEMBER 20, 2017

Vacation Rentals • Sales • Property Management

TeamDuncan.com • 941.779.0304

310 Pine Avenue Anna Maria, FL 34216