ANNA MARIA – Elliott Falcione hopes to present Manatee County Commissioners with a proposed water taxi plan on Tuesday, Sept. 13. Falcione, the director of the Bradenton Area Convention and Visitors Bureau, made that announcement when appearing before the Anna Maria City Commission on Aug. 11. Without naming the water taxi company to potentially be contracted by the county, Falcione said the county has an experienced, Florida-based water taxi company in mind. If county commissioners approve the proposed water taxi plan, service between downtown Bradenton and Anna Maria Island could begin as early as February. Falcione said the initial plan calls for two pontoon boat-like water taxis to run from 10:30 a.m. to 9:30 p.m. on Fridays, Saturdays and Sundays. Falcione said each water taxi would be 40-50 feet long, 14-15 feet wide and have a draft of 2½ to 3 feet. In an email previously sent to Bradenton Beach Mayor John Chappie, Falcione said each water taxi could carry 35 to 45 passengers. Falcione said water taxi service would originate from the public day dock in downtown Bradenton, just east of the Green Bridge. The water taxis would make their first stop at the City Pier in Anna Maria before traveling to the Bridge Street Pier in Bradenton Beach and back, with a return stop at the City Pier. Falcione said it’s possible the service might be extended to the Coquina North boat ramp, across the street from the north end of Coquina Beach. Falcione said the county might request additional water taxi service during peak visitation periods and major holidays, and service might eventually be expanded SEE WATER TAXI, PAGE 27
HUNTERS POINT | SUBMITTED
BY LESLIE LAKE SUN CORRESPONDENT | leslielake@aol.com
Stormwater released this week from Piney Point
PALMETTO – Stormwater collected over several months in a pond on top of a phosphogypsum waste stack at Piney Point is being released this week into Tampa Bay at Port Manatee, according to the Florida Department of Environmental Protection (FDEP). The “dewatering,” another step toward the final closure of the idled phosphate plant, began on Aug. 12 and will amount to about 4.5 million gallons, spokesperson Alexandra Kuhta said. “This is the first pond to be closed and contains strictly rainwater,” she said. “Ultimately all (ponds) will be closed on the site.”
Signs seeking voluntary vessel registration have been erected along the Hunters Point canal. 27
Water taxi service between downtown Bradenton and Anna Maria Island would initially be offered on Fridays, Saturdays and Sundays.
The stormwater is separate from the 262 million gallons of phosphate process wastewater still on site, which is contained in separate lined compartments and is managed separately, according to an FDEP press release.
Registration
Water taxi plan headed to county commission
The stormwater released into Tampa Bay does not have the same nitrogen content as the phosphate process water released in 2021.
A leak in one of the gypsum stacks in March 2021 resulted in FDEP approving the dumping of 215 million gallons of contaminated process water into Tampa Bay to prevent flooding of homes and businesses in the event of the stack’s collapse. The discharged water spread throughout Tampa Bay and Sarasota Bay, transporting nitrogen and phosphorus that worsened a bloom of the toxic algae red tide that lasted from April to November, causing fish kills and respiratory irritation. The stormwater is less problematic, according to FDEP. “DEP and the court-appointed receiver have independently tested the water, and current water sampling results indicate the concentrations of total nitrogen range from 2.3 to 3.5 mg/L. At this level, the nutrient loading to the bay is expected to be less than 0.1% of the federally adopted annual Total Maximum Daily Load for Lower Tampa Bay,” according to the press release. The stormwater pond will be modified so that it will no longer accumulate rainwater, eliminating the need for future stormwater releases, according to the Court-appointedagency.receiver and Tampa-based attorney Herb Donica recommended a phased approach to closing the ponds, which are less than two miles from Tampa Bay, near two state aquatic preserves. The Piney Point site will be closed by December 2024, according to a plan approved by the FDEP on March 30. requested for Point canal users
Hunters
- Named Best Florida Newspaper In Its Class - August 17, 2022 Anna Maria Island, Florida The Island’s award-winning weekly newspaper www.amisun.com OPPONENTS of a 65-foot-high, fixed-span bridge in Cortez lose in court. 4 SIGNS ON PALMA Sola Causeway to come down. 5
BY JOE HENDRICKS SUN CORRESPONDENT | jhendricks@amisun.com
The county-contracted water taxis are expected to resemble the boat shown here.
Page
FORMER BEACH MARKET director seeks new venue. 3
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MANATEE COUNTY | SUBMITTED
941.778.1515 | 111 South Bay Blvd | Anna Maria Island, FL. Watermelon sa lad balsamicwareductiontermelonarugulaoliveoilbasilmintfeta 2 THE SUN www.amisun.com AUGUST 17, 2022
BY LESLIE LAKE SUN CORRESPONDENT | LESLIELAKE@AOL.COM BRADENTON BEACH – Since the Aug. 2 announcement that Manatee County would take over the Coquina Beach Market from Nancy Ambrose, its director for the past decade, she has been looking for new venues. Ambrose told The Sun that she is exploring the permitting process for one or more new venues for the market and said there are several good possibilities. “This all happened so fast,” she said. “My concern is always the vendors having a place to go. When this happened, I almost felt like I let them down. I would say right now there is probably more than one place that we’re looking at.” Ambrose declined to say where she was looking, but said that her search was not limited to Manatee County. “The market will probably be at more than one place,” she said. “There’s one in particular that I’m very excited about.” “I’m done with the county as far as the beach market,” she said. “My reports are in to the county, I’ve destroyed my signs and business cards. I had 30 days, but I got it all done.”Ambrose had expressed astonishment that her franchise license agreement for use of the beach parking lot had been terminated, thus ending her longtime management of the market. “I was completely shocked when I received the coldest termination without cause letter out of the blue yesterday,” she wrote on Aug. 2 on her Facebook page. “I spent the day trying to figure it out and was so worried about the vendors.”
“In a perfect world, I at 64 would retire as my husband retired in May and we would get the Thor Vegas or Atlas and travel with our dogs - that we dream about,” she wrote. “However instead of relaxing now - I must work on finding other venues as I honestly feel that some of our vendor family will not have a home in November.” “We have fabulous vendors,” she said. “It has a family vibe and that makes it a special place. People can feel that.” Ambrose’s supporters have come out in force on social media. The Facebook page, “Where is the Market?” has garnered 1,200 members - many of whom are vendors who have worked with Ambrose and are expressing loyalty. For example, “941 Beach Vibes” will NOT be vendors at the Coquina Beach Market, we will be following Nancy,” is posted Ambrosethere.said she started the Beach Market as vendors at her previous Bridge Street market were not allowed back when she left as manager. “I am afraid that I will see the same thing now - that the vendors who helped build and make the Beach Market at Coquina Beach so special will not be back,” she wrote. “I fear for this on so many levels. So, I have no other decision than to start anew and help the vendors… I am mama bear to my vendors - you do not mess around with them.”
An Aug. 2 press release from Manatee County Information Director Bill Logan stated in part, “Artisans and other vendors will be back along the Coquina Beach South promenade, once again, when the 2022-23 season opens in November as oversight for the market shifts to Manatee County.”
On Aug. 5, Logan declined to give a reason for Ambrose’s termination and said by email, “I do not have any further information why the contract was terminated.”
COUNTY ORGANIZING NEW MARKET
“Every aspect of the market is being studied, from location to hours and dates of operation to enhancing vendor and guest opportunities,” Manatee County Administrator Scott Hopes said. “We want to integrate this into the beach experience.”
County leaders are working to create a “more engaging and enjoyable experience” when the Coquina Beach Market reopens in November, Logan wrote in an Aug. 11 press release. He declined to speculate as to what some of those changes could be, saying, “Everything is being looked at in order to make it a better event.”
AUGUST 17, 2022 www.amisun.com THE SUN 3
The new director has not yet been chosen, Logan said. “There are discussions as to who will be in charge of the market, but no person has been appointed or named yet,” he said.
Ambrose explores new venues for market Ambrose
Vendors for the county beach market may apply at mymanatee.org.coquinamarketvendors@
The former Coquina Beach Market manager is seeking new venues while Manatee County officials reorganize her former market.
More than 150 vendors have responded to initial survey requests, expressing their interest in continuing to work with the new management team, according to Logan.
IN BRIEF
The Bradenton Beach City Commission is scheduled to meet on Thursday, Aug. 18 at noon. On the consent agenda is a requested authorization for the payment of a $16,643 invoice from M.T. Causley for building official and city planner services. Under old business, commissioners plan to discuss FEMA Hazard Mitigation Grant Program funding for desired drainage improvements along Church and Highland avenues. Under new business, the commission will discuss a refund requested for fees paid for a street vacation application at 2100 Gulf Drive N. Commissioners will be asked to approve the purchase of a 2021 Ford Interceptor police utility vehicle and a 2022 police responder vehicle. Also up for discussion is a proposal from Colliers Engineering for professional services related to the city’s stormwater and drainage projects. The commission will also discuss a notification of availability to serve on the Florida Green Finance Authority’s Board of Supervisors. Under attorney business, the city attorney will provide updates on any pending legal actions or city projects she and the city are involved in. The meeting will conclude with the mayor and commissioners’ reports. Planning board to discuss proposed rezoning
Interested parties have one more opportunity to have their voices heard on a proposed ban of multilevel parking structures in Holmes Beach. A final public hearing and vote by city commissioners on the proposed ordinance is scheduled for Tuesday, Aug. 23 at 5 p.m. While the meeting is available to watch on Zoom, anyone wishing to speak must appear in person at city hall, 5701 Marina Drive. Alternatively, public comments can be sent to the city clerk for inclusion in commissioners’ meeting materials no later than Friday, Aug. 19 at cityclerk@holmesbeachfl.org.
The Bradenton Beach Planning and Zoning Board will meet on Wednesday, Aug. 17 at 1 p.m. to continue discussion on a city ordinance pertaining to city staff’s proposed rezoning of more than 20 residential properties located from Highland Avenue west to Gulf Drive, and from Second Street North to Cortez Road. The properties are currently zoned multi-family residential (R-3) and city staff proposes rezoning them to a mixed-use (MXD) zoning designation which would allow ground-level retail and commercial activities with residential units above. The board opposed the proposed rezoning. The board will also continue its ongoing discussions on impervious surface coverage and landscaping requirements. Correction The late Jack Dietrich lived on Mangrove Avenue. A story in last week’s Sun incorrectly stated another street name.
Drainage project funding on Thursday’s agenda
Judge rules for FDOT in Cortez Bridge challenge
JOE HENDRICKS | SUN Built in 1956, the Cortez Bridge drawbridge is slated to be replaced with a higher, fixed-span bridge.
Visit our website, www.amisun.com. Scan this code with your smartphone to go there.
CORTEZ – U.S. Magistrate Judge Anthony Porcelli has ruled against the four plaintiffs opposing the Florida Department of Transportation’s (FDOT) plans to construct a fixed-span bridge between Cortez and Bradenton Beach, granting FDOT’s motion for summary judgment. With construction slated to begin as early as 2026 according to FDOT officials, the fixed-span bridge will provide 65 feet of vertical clearance for vessels passing under it. The new bridge will replace the aging drawbridge that currently provides 17 feet of vertical clear ance when the bridge is down. As noted in Porcelli’s order, “The existing Cortez Bridge was constructed in 1956 to replace the original 1921 wooden bridge connecting Anna Maria Island with the mainland in Manatee County. As constructed, the existing Cortez Bridge consists of an undivided, two-lane, low-level bascule (drawbridge) structure. The results from several bridge inspection reports conducted since 2008 show that the Cortez Bridge has become functionally obsolete and structurally deficient.” In the U.S. District Court Middle District of Florida’s Tampa Divi sion, Porcelli issued his 57-page written order on Aug. 5. The order pertains to the complaint for de claratory and injunctive relief the plaintiffs filed in 2020. The plaintiffs in the legal action are former Manatee County Commissioner Joe McClash, former Manatee County Commissioner and Cortez resident Jane von Hahmann and Cortez residents Linda Molto and Joe Kane. The complaint names FDOT and FDOT Secretary Kevin Thibault as defendants. In part, the plaintiffs sought from the federal court:
4 THE SUN ISLAND NEWS AUGUST 17, 2022
• A declaratory judgment that FDOT, when deciding on a fixedspan bridge, violated the National Environmental Policy Act (NEPA) and the Administrative Procedure Act.
• An order to vacate FDOT’s Type 2 categorical exclusion determination.Theplaintiffs also sought a 35foot drawbridge option as a viable bridge replacement alternative that would not cause the same significant impacts as a 65-foot high, fixed-span bridge. According to Porcelli’s order, the plaintiffs challenged FDOT’s decision to replace the existing 17-foot-high drawbridge with a 65-foot-high, fixed-span bridge, and FDOT’s decision to forgo an environmental impact statement or an environmental assessment and proceed instead using a categorical exclusion to the National Environmental Policy Act. The plaintiffs contended FDOT violated the act by arbitrarily and capriciously relying on an inapplicable categorical exclusion to exempt a major federal action – the construction of the new bridge – from FDOT’s obligation to perform either an environmental impact statement or an environmental assessment. Case law cited in Porcelli’s order notes the National Environmental Policy Act establishes procedures for agencies to follow when addressing environmental impact issues and procedures. “NEPA regulations authorize the use of exclusions for those categories of actions which do not individually or cumulatively have a significant effect on the human environment, and which have been found to have no such effect in procedures adopted by a federal agency in implementation of these regulations,” according to Porcelli’s“Plaintiffsorder.contend the Cortez Bridge Replacement Project does not qualify for a categorical exclusion, but FDOT disputes that contention. FDOT contends that the Cortez Bridge replacement project satisfies the criteria for a categorical exclusion,” according to Porcelli’s order.
PLAINTIFF REACTIONS When asked about continuing to challenge the fixed-span bridge, McClash said a potential appeal is possible.Whencontacted by email, von Hahmann was more animated in her response to Porcelli’s ruling. “Very sad and very discour aged,” von Hahmann wrote in her response to The Sun. “I feel like there is no road for the general
Final vote scheduled for parking garage ban
FDOT is moving forward with its plans to replace the Cortez Bridge drawbridge with a higher, fixed-span bridge.
BY JOE HENDRICKS SUN CORRESPONDENT | jhendricks@amisun.com
• An order to vacate the acceptance/approval of FDOT’s Location and Design Concept Acceptance for a 65-foot-high, fixed-span bridge that would have significant impacts on the surrounding community.
SEE BRIDGE, PAGE 11
BRADENTON – Anyone who’s traveled the Palma Sola Scenic Highway has seen the roadside businesses popping up along Manatee Avenue – kayak, paddleboard, horseback riding and now, Jet Ski rentals.While the Palma Sola Scenic Highway Corridor Management Entity (CME) can’t stop the businesses from being there, they are working to reduce the visual impact on the scenic highway. Members met Aug. 10 to discuss improvements planned for the roadside and how they can help reduce the impact of the various businesses that have sprung up along the causeway’s beach areas. The scenic highway stretches along Manatee Avenue from 75th Street in Bradenton to East Bay Drive in Holmes Beach with plans to extend it to Manatee Beach in the near future. One of the most picturesque sections of the scenic highway is the Palma Sola Causeway Beach with water views on both sides of the road. During their quarterly meeting, members noted that in addition to the horseback riding, kayak and paddleboard rentals already taking place in the area, motorized watercraft rentals also have sprung up - along with other vendors - on the side of the road. While the CME’s members cannot prevent businesses from using the causeway as long as cash does not exchange hands there, they can enforce existing sign regulations in the area. Co-chairs of the committee Ingrid McClellan and Craig Keys said they’d be willing to speak with vendors along the causeway and city of Bradenton code enforcement officials about the proliferation of signage in the area. No advertising signage is allowed on the scenic highway and, while McClellan said they’d been allowing businesses to slide with sandwich board signs, she’s noticed much larger business signs being used, including banners and flag signs that are pushed into the ground. Members of the group agreed to not allow any business signage on the causeway going forward unless it’s small and a part of a vehicle. OTHER IMPROVEMENTS Members also agreed to crack down on overnight parking and camping on the causeway and at the Palma Sola Boat Ramp. McClellan said she’d no ticed some boats that are moored just off the causeway beach, and while the group cannot stop that activity, she said vehicles belonging to the boat owners have been parked long-term on the causeway.“Weare not their parking lot,” she said. The group agreed to reach out to the Bradenton Police Department and code enforcement to see if the vehicle owners could be notified that they’re not allowed to park overnight on the causeway or if the vehicles can be ticketed.Improvements planned for the scenic highway include the addition of new, larger trash cans, a refresh of the mural on the park’s restroom facilities and the replacement of bollards along theCMEshoreline.members also discussed the possibility of having a crosswalk with flashing beacons installed across Manatee Avenue near the restroom facilities.
KRISTIN SWAIN | SUN Members of the Palma Sola Scenic Highway CME are engaging local code enforcement officers to crack down on business signage along the causeway.
Palma Sola Causeway sign rules to be enforced
Members of the Palma Sola Scenic Highway Corridor Management Entity are hoping to make some changes to beautify the area and cut down on business advertising on the causeway.
AUGUST 17, 2022 www.amisun.com THE SUN 5
BY KRISTIN SWAIN SUN STAFF WRITER | kswain@amisun.com
Natalie Thrasher Bradenton, Holmes Beach, Anna Maria
LETTERS TO THE EDITOR
I thank Nancy for her dedication and building up small businesses in the area. I detest county takeovers when it was selfish and unasked for and apparently for their profit. County Information Outreach Manager Bill Logan’s comment of “no further comment on the contract termination” shows no transparency in his views. It’s just wrong!
Got an opinion, a complaint or a compliment? Is there something you need to get off your chest? Send us a letter to the editor and have your say. There are a couple of ways to do it. The easiest and most direct is to email The Sun at news@amisun.com. Remember to put Letter to the Editor in the subject field. Or you can snail-mail a letter to us at The Anna Maria Island Sun, P.O. Box 1189, Anna Maria, FL 34216. Letters should be kept to 300 words or less and must contain your name and the city in which you reside. Personal attacks and obscene language will not be printed. The Sun reserves the right to edit letters for length or content. Beach market shakeup disturbing I am appalled and disturbed that Manatee County abruptly ended - and without due cause or noticeNancy Ambrose’s job running the Coquina Beach Market. For over 10 years, she worked hard building up a business and helping many small artisans to sell their various items. As Commissioner Carol Whitmore said, Nancy Ambrose did this without any help from the county. Now a greedy Manatee County official has taken it upon himself to steal away someone’s hardearned business. This is wrong! There is no need required or requested for the Convention and Visitors Bureau to take this away!
6 THE SUN OPINION AUGUST 17, 2022 The Anna Maria Island Sun 3909 East Bay Drive, Suite 210, Holmes Beach, FL, 34217 Phone: (941) 778-3986 email: news@amisun.com | ads@amisun.com | classifieds@amisun.com Like us on our Facebook page at www.facebook.com/AnnaMariaIslandSun Owner/CEO Mike Field Editor Cindy Lane General Manager Bob Alexander Reporters/Photographers Joe JasonHendricksSchafferKristinSwain Columnists Louise Bolger Rusty Chinnis Contributors Steve Borggren Captain Rick Grassett Leslie Lake Monica Simpson Tom Vaught Captain Dave White Anne Yarbrough Layout Ricardo Fonseca Digital Editor Kristin Swain Advertising Director Shona Otto Advertising Assistant Pamela Lee Classifieds Bob Alexander Graphics Elaine Stroili Ricardo Fonseca Distribution BobTonyConnorAlexanderFieldMcNultyBrianSmith Accounting Leslie Ketchum Co-founding publishers Mike Field Maggie McGinley Field Family-owned since 2000 The Anna Maria Island Sun Staff Drop us a line
The Concert for Peace in June raised more than $50,000 and, while the totals are not yet in for the Trolley for Peace, Slicker expects this event to exceed $10,000 additional dollars, 100% of which will go to send supplies to the people of Ukraine. In addition to multiple refugee centers they are working with, Slicker says they want to help provide some bulletproof vests to those in the most dangerous areas in addition to the refrigerators and other needed items.
8 THE SUN www.amisun.com AUGUST 17, 2022 Bradenton Beach 941.778.AMOB (2662) BRIDGE ST. PIER 6696 Cortez Road 941.792.0077 CORTEZ 1525 51st Avenue East 941.721.7773 ELLENTON 6906 14th Street West 941.758.7880 LANDSIDE TABLE-SIDE SERVICE WITH A BAYSIDE VIEW ON THE BRIDGE STREET PIER! TMOSPHERE!LY-FRIENDLY DAILY HAPPY HOUR(S) • 3-6PM • $3 DRAFT BEERS • $3 HOUSE MARGARITAS • $4 WELLS • $5 HOUSE WINES • $6 COCKTAILS
BY JASON SCHAFFER SUN CORRESPONDENT | jschaffer@amisun.com
SEE FUNDRAISER, PAGE 13
Bob Slicker and the members of the Rotary Club of Anna Maria Island hit another home run for Ukraine with a sold-out Trolley for Peace event.
CORTEZ - It was another big success for the effort to raise money for the people of Ukraine as Bob Slicker, owner of Slicker’s Eatery, sold out his latest fundraising event while also celebrating his 60th birthday. The Trolley for Peace on Aug. 13 traveled to four local restaurants and bars. For a ticket price of $75, riders rode two trolleys that made stops at R.J. Gators, Slicker’s Eatery, Clancy’s Irish Pub and 88 Live Piano Bar. In addition to the funds raised from the price of the trip, each bar had a raffle giveaway to help raise even more money for the war relief effort in Ukraine. “After the last event, the Concert for Peace, I thought gosh, what’s the next thing we’re going to do,” Slicker said. “I knew my birthday was coming up. Today is actually my 60th birthday and I always like to do some sort of thing for charity on my birthday and this year it happened to coincide with our campaign for Ukraine.” Slicker says this effort wouldn’t be possible without the help of the Rotary Club of Anna Maria Island. After meeting the Rotary members when they held a meeting at Slicker’s Eatery earlier this year, the relationship quickly grew into an effort that has sent tens of thousands of dollars to assist in relief efforts in Ukraine. Desperately needed items such as refrigerators, washing machines and medical supplies are being delivered to people who are living with virtually nothing in a war zone.
Slicker, Rotary Club sell out Ukraine fundraiser
Relationships with Rotary clubs in Poland and Ukraine make it possible to not only assure the funds are accounted for, but the supplies are able to be physically delivered where they are needed most. Slicker recently visited Poland and Ukraine, meeting some of the people affected by the war firsthand. “We visited flats where they have as many as seven people living in one apartment and they are allowed one shelf per flat in the communal refrigerators,” Slicker said. “Imagine having only one shelf in a fridge for an entire large family, but they are very grateful to even have that. We want to buy more fridges, more washers and dryers. We have a lot more to do.”
AMI Rotary President Jim McDaniel echoed Slicker’s assessment that things in the region have been getting more difficult in recent weeks.
JASON SCHAFFER | SUN Bob Slicker, owner of Slicker’s Eatery, and Jim McDaniel, president of the Rotary Club of Anna Maria Island, enjoy the Trolley for Peace bar crawl stop at Slicker’s Eatery in Cortez with a sold-out crowd.
ANNA MARIA – City officials plan to spend $1.75 million on stormwater and drainage improvement projects, $798,752 on street paving and $1.9 million on Reimagining Pine Avenue safety improvements during the 2022-23 fiscal year that begins Oct. 1. Mayor Dan Murphy presented the proposed capital and core project expenditures during the city commission’s Aug. 11 budget meeting. The commission tentatively approved the proposed expenditures to be included in the new fiscal year budget to be adopted during two public hearings in September. During Thursday’s meeting, Murphy said he had just learned that the proposed Reimagining Pine Avenue sidewalk, crosswalk and lighting improvements must first be reviewed by the Florida Department of Transportation (FDOT) because FDOT is overseeing the expenditure of the $1.28 million state appropriation granted for the city project by the Florida Legislature and Gov. Ron DeSantis earlier this year. After FDOT reviews the proposed Reimagining Pine Avenue plans, a third request for proposals (RFP) will have to be issued seeking a construction firm to do the desired work. The C-Squared construction firm is the only firm that provided bid proposals in response to the first two Reimagining Pine Avenue RFPs.
10 THE SUN www.amisun.com AUGUST 17, 2022 SUNDAY WORSHIP 8:30 AM in the Chapel 10:00 AM in the Sanctuar y Nurser y • Children’s Church ONLINE • Watch LI VE or LATER RoserChurch.com Text ROSE R to 22828 to rece ive t he weekl y e Bulletin The CHAPEL is open during o ce hours for prayer and meditation 941-778-0414 • 512 Pine Ave, Anna Maria • FOLLOW us on Facebook @RoserChurch Roser Church “...a beautiful place to explore your faith...”
CITY OF ANNA MARIA | SUBMITTED New drainage and stormwater elements will be installed in the areas highlighted in red. Maintenance will be performed on the existing stormwater and drainage elements highlighted in blue.
CITY OF ANNA MARIA | SUBMITTED The streets highlighted in blue will be repaved during the 2022-23 fiscal year. The streets highlighted in orange will also be repaved if possible.
Capital projects include drainage, paving The proposed Reimagining Pine Avenue safety improvements must first be reviewed by FDOT. BY JOE HENDRICKS SUN CORRESPONDENT | jhendricks@amisun.com
June 2022 tourist tax collections compared to June 2021 Anna Maria 24% Bradenton Beach 24% Holmes Beach 9% Manatee County Total* 7%
LESLIE LAKE | SUN On the first day of school, first responders reminded motorists to slow down in a school zone.
The Manatee County Tourist Development Council (TDC) has two new members. Bradenton Area Convention and Visitors Bureau Executive Director Elliott Falcione addressed county commissioners during an Aug. 9 meeting, present ing a list of 13 people interested in the two open seats on the advisory board. Commissioners nominated five of the 13 for the two seats, then voted to appoint Dave Wick and Norma Kennedy to hold the seats for four-year terms expiring June 30,The2026.TDC consists of three elected officials, four hoteliers and two county residents.
12 THE SUN www.amisun.com AUGUST 17, 2022
*(Anna Maria Island, Bradenton, Longboat Key, unincorporated Manatee County, Palmetto) Manatee County’s 5% resort tax, or tourist tax, is collected from owners of accommodations rented for six months or less who charge the tax to their renters, in most cases, tourists. About 50% of the tax proceeds are allocated to Bradenton Area Convention and Visitors Bureau tourism marketing efforts, with 20% allocated to beach renourishment. The tax also partially funds tourism-related attractions such as the city piers in Bradenton Beach and Anna Maria. Amounts shown were collected in June and paid to the Manatee County Tax Collector’s Office in July. Manatee County totals include all three Anna Maria Island cities, Bradenton, the portion of Longboat Key within Manatee County, unincorporated Manatee County and Palmetto. To anonymously report a rental owner who may not be paying the tax, call 941-741-4809 or visit http://www.
TDC adds new members
FROM PAGE 9 Research shows that more than one-third of drivers roll through stop signs in school zones or neighborhoods. Always come to a complete stop, checking carefully for children on sidewalks and in crosswalks before proceeding. • Eliminate distractions. Taking your eyes off the road for just two seconds doubles your chances of crashing.•Share the road with bicyclists. Children on bicycles are often inexperienced, unsteady and unpredictable. Slow down and allow at least 3 feet of passing distance between your vehicle and a bicyclist. Both Holmes Beach police officers and AAA representatives also stress the importance of parents educating children on being alert when crossing the street or walking near traffic. Both motorists and pedestrians should take safety measures as a precaution when traveling, particularly through busy areas. It’s also important to know the law regarding school buses. All drivers moving in either direction on a two-way street or a multilane paved median must stop for a school bus displaying a stop signal, and must remain stopped until the road is clear of children and the school bus stop arm is withdrawn. Traffic approaching an oncoming school bus does not need to stop if there is a raised barrier such as a concrete divider or at least 5 feet of unpaved space separating the lanes of traffic. However, motorists should slow down and watch for students loading or unloading from the bus.
Source:taxcollector.com/tdt-evader.cfm.ManateeCountyTaxCollector
SCHOOL: back in session; slow down
FROM PAGE 8 “We’re getting word that things are getting tougher over there from the president of the Rotary in Poland,” McDaniel said. “No matter what we do, we feel like it’s just not enough. We just want to do more.” McDaniel just sent another $10,000 to the Poland Rotary to distribute supplies and the duo has no intentions of slowing down local fundraising efforts. Slicker said plans for another Concert for Peace are in the works for early 2023. He also encourages anyone who wants to help to raise money to host their own homegrown efforts such as a party where guests donate to the relief effort or to donate privately with family and friends. For a QR code that allows you to donate directly to the Rotary, visit Slicker’s Eatery online at www.slickerseatery.com or on Facebook at www.facebook.com/SlickersEatery.
WHERE‛S YOUR COMFORT ZONE?
FUNDRAISER: Sold out for Ukraine
New Pet Evacuation Guide available New 2022 Pet Evacuation Guides are available from the Anna Maria Island Chamber of Commerce. Humans aren’t the only ones who need help in an emergency. If it is unsafe for an owner to be at home, it’s also unsafe for their pets to remain in the house during an emergency situation such as a hurricane. The guide stresses the importance of preparing an emergency kit, not just for the human family, but for pets as well. It also has information on hotels, motels and shelters near Anna Maria Island that allow pets and much more valuable information. To obtain a guide, email info@amichamber.org, call 941-778-1541 or stop by the chamber at 5313 Gulf Drive in Holmes Beach. St. Bernard Women’s Guild goes cruising
AUGUST 17, 2022 www.amisun.com THE SUN 13
The St. Bernard Women’s Guild is inviting anyone who is interested to board Holland America’s Rot terdam for an 11-day southern Caribbean cruise from Nov. 30 to Dec. 11. Ports include St. Maarten, St. Lucia, Barbados, Martinique, St. Kitts and St. Thomas. A donation from each trip booked will go to St. Bernard’s Women’s Guild fundraiser and will be matched by Travel Now LLC. Payment is due by Aug. 20. For more details, contact Barbara at Travel Now at 941-228-2916 or TravelNow@verizon.net.
• Don’t use balloons, wish lanterns or fireworks; they litter the beach and Gulf, and turtles can ingest the debris.•Do not trim trees and plants that shield the beach from lights.
Source:(3922).Anna Maria Island Turtle Watch and Shorebird Monitoring Turtle nests laid: 524 (Record: 544 in 2019) False crawls: 490 (Record: 831 in 2010) Hatched nests: 252 Hatchlings: 19,721
TURTLE TIPS
• Keep pets away from bird nesting areas; dogs are not allowed on the beach by•law.Keep the beach clean; food scraps attract bird predators such as raccoons and crows to the beach, and litter can entangle birds and other wildlife.
During sea turtle season, May 1 – Oct. 31, follow these tips to help turtles:•Turn off lights visible from the beach and close blinds from sundown to sunrise; lights confuse nesting sea turtles and may cause them to go back to sea and drop their eggs in the water, where they won’t hatch. Light can also attract hatchlings away from the water.
BIRD TIPS
AUGUST 17, 2022 www.amisun.com THE SUN 15
• Don’t use flashlights, lanterns or camera flashes on the beach at night.
• Don’t feed birds – our food is not good for their health, and it encourages them to fly at people aggressively.
• Never touch a shorebird chick, even if it’s wandering outside a staked nesting area.•Teach kids not to chase birds – if they’re disturbed, bird parents may abandon nests.
• Remove all beach chairs and other objects from the sand from sundown to sunrise; they can deter sea turtles from nesting and disorient hatchlings.•Fillinthe 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. To report large holes or other turtle obstacles, call: • City of Anna Maria code enforcement — 941-708-6130, ext. 111. • City of Bradenton Beach code enforcement — 941-778-1005, ext. 280.
• If birds are screeching and flying at you, you’re too close.
• Avoid posted bird nesting areas and use designated walkways to the beach.
During bird nesting season, March through August, please follow these tips:
NESTING NEWS
• City of Holmes Beach code enforcement — 941-778-0331, ext. 260.
Source: Anna Maria Island Turtle Watch and Shorebird Monitoring
Where’s Esther? After being satellite-tagged on Coquina Beach on June 20, loggerhead sea turtle Esther continues her strong showing in the 2022 Tour de Turtles leaderboard. Esther has dropped one spot from last week, but still holds a solid sixth, traveling 123 miles since the start of the Sea Turtle Conservancy’s 13th annual Tour de Turtles race, which began Aug. 1. She continues to swim in the Gulf of Mexico off the coast of Englewood. Esther is one of 15 turtles competing in the event with the title going to the turtle that travels the farthest between Aug. 1 and Oct. 31, the last day of turtle season. Esther is competing to raise awareness of light pollution, and is sponsored by Waterline Villas & Marinas and Mainsail Vacation Rentals.SUBMITTED
• If you see people disturbing nesting birds, call the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission’s Wildlife Alert hotline at 888-404-FWCC (3922).
• Level sandcastles before leaving the beach; they can block hatchlings from the water.
• Never touch a sea turtle; it’s the law. If you see people disturbing turtles, call the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission’s Wildlife Alert hotline at 888-404FWCC
Crawford said, adding that the next planned book will be “Katherine and Mullet “The books are fiction,” he said. “The characters are not hooked to any individual.”
LESLIE LAKE | SUN J.B. Crawford holds books he has written, including those for his grandchildren.
Crawford’s books are titled: “Nathan and the Stone Crabs;” “Arianna and the Spanish Sardines;” and “Elof and the Red“TheGrouper.”concept was to take each one in terms of age and associate each child with a fishing craft.
Crawford said that writing the books has often brought back long-lost memories. “While you’re writing, sometimes miracles happenyou remember something that just fits perfectly,” he said. “My advice is if you want to write, just sit down and write… talking about it doesn’t do anything.”
In the books I don’t mention Cortez by name, I call it DeSoto Village,”
A longtime Cortez resident hopes to keep the fishing village’s legacy alive through his books.
Author dedicates Cortez-based books to grandchildren
By LESLIE LAKE SUN CORRESPONDENT | leslielake@aol.com CORTEZ - J.B. Crawford can type up a book in six weeks, but if you ask him how long it actually takes to write one, the answer is more complicated. “It takes me a whole lifetime,” he said. “By that I mean I’ve written a book in as little as six weeks, but I’ve used my entire life experience to know where I was going with it.” That life experience is considerable and has come full circle back to Cortez, where he was a child and learned the fishing trade. That was followed by Army service in Germany during the Korean War, obtaining degrees in English and education from the University of Florida in Gainesville and doctoral degrees in education and administration from Harvard University, teaching overseas and now living in a comfortable waterfront home in Cortez. The legacy of Cortez as a fishing village built by pioneers was something he wanted to impart to his grandchildren, so much so that he has authored books dedicated to the first three of his nine grandchildren, all with fishing themes. “When we think of pioneers, we think of immigration from outside the U.S., but there was a considerable amount of movement inside the country,” he said. Cortez was founded by a group of fishing families from Carteret County, North Carolina in the 1880s. “I wanted to give some impression to people of new adventures in unknown conditions,” he said. “I like to say they knew how to make something out of nothing.”
Crawford said his childhood move to Cortez from Bradenton happened in 1942 when his divorced mother, who was raising Crawford and his brother, married into a “She married Claude Lewis, a commercial fisherman in “We did seine fishing, dragging a net where we would follow mullet along the beach, and we would drop the net in front of a school,” he The fish were then brought to the fish house where they were washed, iced and “The early village concept was young boys were taught fishing while girls were taught housekeeping, canning and sewing,” he said. “That was really silly because girls were better at fishing than some boys. “
AUGUST 17, 2022 www.amisun.com THE SUN 17
18 AUGUST 17, 2022 www.amisun.com AUGUST 17, 2022 19
20 THE SUN OUTDOORS AUGUST 17, 2022
o local fishers, the importance of mangroves is evident. Intertwined with the twisted roots, there’s a web of life that’s inextricably bound to the snook, redfish, trout, flounder, grouper and a plethora of other gamefish that they seek. What can be less apparent to those that make a living elsewhere is the importance of mangroves as a critical source of food and protection for fish and people. These ancient coastal forests provide an abundance of food for manatees, dolphins and sea turtles as well as sustenance and nesting areas for critically endangered seabirds. All these links in the chain of life provide the ineffable sense of beauty and wonder that continue to attract people to this region. They also protect and sustain a vibrant economy in ways that might not be as apparent. What’s less well understood, and just beginning to be appreciated, is the protection mangroves provide against powerful hurricanes and rising waters that longtime residents have seen firsthand. With all that mangroves provide for us and our quality of life, it would seem they would be revered and protected at all costs. Unfortunately, just the opposite seems to be the case. When local fishing guides began to question me about what they considered extensive mangrove trimming along the Sarasota Bay shoreline, I went to investigate. What I observed shocked and angered me. That was April 4 of this year, and I flew a drone and walked the shoreline to document what I witnessed. There were numerous large mature mangroves that had been cut, were denuded of leaves and appeared dead. There also was a large amount of cut debris in the water, including branches that were of greater diameter and longer than allowed under Florida Department of Environmental Protection (FDEP) guidelines. When I reached out to FDEP in April to file a complaint, I was informed that Karen Willey, a local environmental advocate and business owner, had filed a protest two months earlier in February 2022. When I questioned Willey, she said she had been reading the Washington Post and had seen an ad for Aqua by the Bay that featured an image looking west with an unobstructed view of Sarasota Bay she had never seen before. When I called FDEP to inquire why no actions had been taken, the response I received indicated that they had sent a letter to the permit holder about the complaint and had not heard back from them. They also stated that they couldn’t get on the property to inspect without permission from the property owner. After raising the issue with Florida state Rep. Will Robinson, Sen. Jim Boyd and the Manatee County Commission, an inspection was done which claimed that the conditions of the permit had been met. Astonished, I sent an email challenging the FDEP inspection report with images showing my concerns. At her request, I sent GPS-tagged images to Hannah Westervelt, FDEP Compliance Assurance Manager, and received a reply indicating that inspectors were being sent back to the site to Subsequently,investigate.Westervelt contacted me to say that two inspections were conducted that confirmed our concerns. The permit holder was given until Aug. 12 to reply to the letter and we are currently waiting for the response. It’s unfortunate and ill-advised that state regulators are not performing their duty in a timely manner to protect the citizens and businesses of Florida, present and future. But it wouldn’t be fair to lay the blame only with the FDEP. People I have spoken to who deal with state regulators on a regular basis fault prior Gov. Rick Scott with eviscerating the FDEP and spawning a mass exodus of the brightest and most committed regulators. The people I spoke to at the agency, including Westervelt, were responsive to my questions and concerns and ultimately addressed the issue. My guess is the agency is struggling with a limited budget and staff. That’s where we the voters come in. It’s incumbent on the citizens of Florida and Manatee County to elect officials with a proven record of protecting our most important and vulnerable resources. How this is resolved is still to be seen, but rest assured that groups like Suncoast Waterkeeper will make sure it doesn’t become just a cost of doing business for the developer. I don’t have a crystal ball but I’m guessing that future developers, builders and your children and grandchildren will judge us for the decisions we make and actions we take.
Mangroves: Critical habitats
TimeReel RUSTY CHINNIS RUSTY CHINNIS | SUN An aerial view of the mangroves west of the Aqua development reveals mangroves that have been cut excessively and appear to be dead or dying.
This state-of-the-art facility boasts climate-controlled dining and an unobstructed view of the Gulf of Mexico. Buttonwood Bay at Mar Vista is a location that couples dream about. With majestic buttonwood trees, beachfront footage, and Longboat Key in your sights, your camera needs to be your plus one. The Studio at Gulf & Pine offers indoor elegance surrounded by local art, just steps from the beach. Not far from Anna Maria Island is Gamble Creek Farm, our newest wedding and events destination. With acres of farmland, creek front scenery, and plenty of privacy, Gamble Creek is the perfect venue for the couple looking for that rustic, farm to table experience. For multiple years now, couples of "The Knot" and “Wedding Wire” have voted The Grand Pavilion at The Sandbar and the Sunset Deck at The Beach House top-rated ceremony and wedding destinations. With perfect venues and an event team that is constantly receiving glowing reviews, Anna Maria Island Venues offers something for everyone. If you are having trouble selecting the perfect destination, ask our team about our All Venue Packages to experience a taste of them all.
Your Perfect Wedding Awaits…
22 THE SUN www.amisun.com AUGUST 17, 2022
From breathtaking beach vistas and perfect sunsets on Anna Maria to our famous buttonwood trees on Longboat Key and rural and rustic farm in Parrish, couples can’t go wrong with Anna Maria Island venues.
Most famous of our locations, The Grand Pavilion at The Sandbar has been a favorite beachfront wedding spot for decades. Tucked among the sea oats and native grasses, the Pavilion is 10 steps from your own secret slice of sugar-sand beach. The Sunset Deck at the Beach House offers the largest beachfront deck of any of Florida’s West Coast venues.
DARA CAUDILL | WWW.ISLANDPHOTOGRAPHY.ORG
DARA CAUDILL | WWW.ISLANDPHOTOGRAPHY.ORG
Scott & Barbara with their daughter Molly, son in law Justin Powers, and their grandchildren, JJ and MacKenzie.
Scott & Barbara with daughter Maggie, son in law Greg Kokemuller, and grandchildern Zoe, Leah, and Max.
AUGUST 17, 2022 Want your wedding photos to be featured here? Submit them to ads@amisun.com, subject 'Wedding Photos' along with your names, date of wedding and location and phone number for a chance to be featured here*. *Submission of photo not a guarantee for placement. The Sun is not responsible for any copyright infringement.
Scott & Barbara Brownell celebrated their 50th wedding anniversary with family and friends at the Sandbar Restaurant Grand Pavillion on Anna Maria Island. Scott and Barbara were married in Chicago on June 9, 1972. They currently reside in West Bradenton.
DARA CAUDILL | WWW.ISLANDPHOTOGRAPHY.ORG
Center details bright financial report
24 THE SUN www.amisun.com AUGUST 17, 2022
At the end of the fiscal year, The Center’s staff reported that finances are in the black.
Programming brought in $769,292 in revenue. After $352,722 in direct costs, that cost center ended with an income of $416,571. With general, indirect and administration expenses of $610,309, The Center’s operations ended with a $193,738 loss, making the monies coming in from fundraising necessary for the nonprofit to end the fiscal year in the black. The Center also had $144,548 in capital expenses for theInyear.addition to fundraising monies from the community, McDaniel said The Center’s staff wrote and received grants for capital and operational expenses totaling more than $225,000. The nonprofit also was able to meet every qualifying request from families applying for reduced fees for after-school childcare, sports and summer camps. With a successful financial year under its belt, The Center’s staff was able to address some deferred capital and maintenance projects including air conditioning replacements, erecting a new shade structure for the playground, purchasing new fitness equipment, facility upgrades and installing water dispensers. Ongoing capital projects include first-floor renovations, additional air conditioning unit replacements and the installation of ADA-compliant shower and bathroom facilities on the second floor. For more information on The Center, visit www.centerami.org.
BY KRISTIN SWAIN SUN STAFF WRITER | kswain@amisun.com
ANNA MARIA – The Center of Anna Maria Island’s new fiscal year began July 1 and it started on a high note. Director of Development Jim McDaniel said The Center’s finances not only ended in the black for the fourth year in a row, but the nonprofit also had $210,000 in the bank at the June 30 end of the 2021-22 fiscal year to help pay the bills during historically lean months in late summer and early fall. At the end of the fiscal year, The Center’s financial statements show a net income of $210,646 after all expenses, well over an anticipated budgeted loss of $6,923. In total, the nonprofit brought in $1,979,259 in total revenue over the last fiscal year with $1,768,613 in expenses. While revenue from programs was up 66% over the previous fiscal year, The Center’s biggest financial contributor was fundraising, which was up 99% over the 2020-21 fiscal year. Fundraising brought in $1,209,966 to the nonprofit in the 2021-22 fiscal year. After $661,035 in direct costs, The Center ended up with $548,931 in profit from that cost center.
AUGUST 17, 2022 www.amisun.com THE SUN 25
The Greg LaPensee Bowling Tournament is returning Saturday, Sept. 10 to benefit The Center of Anna Maria Island. Tickets are available now for $50 per person, including three games, shoe rental and pizza or wings. Teams of up to six players also are welcome. Sponsor a lane with a team of six for $450 or $250 without players. Signature lane sponsorships also are available for $700 and include six players, a tumbler and a Center fishing shirt with your business’s logo on it for each player and a pitcher of beer at your lane. The fun starts at 5 p.m. at Bowlero Bradenton, 4208 Cortez Road W. in Bradenton. Lane sponsors will have their logos displayed at a lane and at check-in for the tournament. Kids lanes also are available. To sign up, visit www.centerami.org/events or call 941-778-1908. The bowling tournament is sponsored by LaPensee Plumbing Pools and Air.
Sign up for LaPensee Bowling Tournament
WMFR chief receives professional designation
Voted Favorite: Live Music, Night Spot, Takeout, Grill and Burger 2017,2019,2020,2021,2022
The staff at West Manatee Fire Rescue is celebrating a new milestone for Chief Ben Rigney, who was awarded the professional designation of Chief Fire Officer on Aug. 2 by the Commission on Professional Credentialing, becoming one of 1,755 CFOs worldwide.
The Chief Fire Officer designation is a program to recognize individuals in the fire service who demonstrate excellence in education, experience, professional development, technical competence and community involvement, among others. The designation is valid for three years and requires continued growth in the areas of professional development and contributions along with community involvement and maintaining active association memberships to maintain. The Commission on Professional Cre dentialing is an entity of the Center for Public Safety Excellence Inc.
REAL ESTATE
AUGUST 17, 2022
Ichallenge you to take a ride around Anna Maria Island and find a street where there are no properties either being currently or recently renovated or torn down. I can’t guarantee you won’t find any and I won’t take that bet, but all of us who either live on the Island or visit it often know what I’m talking about. Finding the right home in the right location is everyone’s dream. Unfortunately, in spite of increased interest rates and a slight downtick in demand, the housing market is still a three-alarm fire. So, what do buyers with cash in their pockets do when what they’re looking for just isn’t available? They buy location and plan a major renovation or a complete teardown. However, if you’re planning on taking on this kind of project, you need not only professional help but also the ability to stay focused. It’s important not to overbuild even on an island where properties are selling at what seems to be extraordinary prices. There is a broad calculation when remodeling a home or deciding on a complete teardown. The finished home should be worth no more than three to five times whatever you paid to acquire the original property per Ken H. Johnson, Ph.D., a real estate economist at Florida Atlantic University in Boca Raton. To quote him, “…otherwise you might develop way too much home for the neighborhood.”Ofcourse,building on waterfront property in the state of Florida opens up a Pandora’s box of regulations and requirements. First of all, in most of Florida and certainly here, if the cost of the improvements you’re making exceeds 50% of the market value of the existing structure preconstruction, you will be required to bring everything up to code. Therefore, if you purchase a cottage on the beach on Anna Maria Island for $2 million and you plan on renovating it at a cost of $1.5 million, you will be required to bring it up to current codes. That means current hurricane codes for doors, windows and height as well as building materials and techniques for the roof structure like roof tie downs. All of this could make the cost of the renovation prohibitive and result in a complete teardown being more cost-effective. In addition, properties in a flood zone - all of Anna Maria Island - will need to meet FEMA’s requirements requiring that elevations have pilings of a certain depth, concrete walls and more. Another factor supporting teardown as opposed to renovations are the hazardous materials you’re likely to find in older homes. Asbestos and lead paint were used with abandon in construction for many years and were great products until they were found to be lethal, especially to children. Getting rid of hazardous materials can be an expensive proposition since they need to be disposed of in a very specific way. I’ve been in a lot of older homes where all of the plumbing and heating systems were wrapped in asbestos; it was a nightmare to remediate and not unusual for the homeowners not to have any idea there was a problem. Clever real estate agents are marketing properties not just in coastal areas but around the country as ripe for teardown in view of the shortage of available inventory. As in any real estate transaction, if you’re thinking of this type of purchase, doing your research and getting the correct advice is paramount. Just for fun, pick a non-beach day and take a ride around the Island and count the number of renovations and teardowns you encounter; I doubt you’ll be surprised.
Renovations, teardowns rampant on Island Castles in the Sand LOUISE BOLGER
26 THE SUN
AUGUST 17, 2022 www.amisun.com THE SUN 27 HOLM ES B EAC H: 5201 Gulf Drive • ELLE NTON: 945 25th Drive East, Suite 10 VisitAParadise.com SALES AND VACATION RENTALS TWO CONVENIENT LOCATIONS 941-778-4800 800-237-2252
“Our Name Says It All”
Hunters Point developer Marshall Gobuty is asking boaters who use the privately owned canal that surrounds the Hunters Point property to voluntarily register their vessels at the www.privatecanal.com website. The online registration form requests the boat owner’s name, address, email address, boat size and the year the vessel was built. Gobuty said a decal containing a sim card will be issued to those who voluntarily register their boats. He said the registration process is part of his efforts to ensure the continued use of the canal for the homeowners and RV resort guests who use the canal, while limiting canal access to commercial users, including those who store their boats at the Cortez Village Marina. The marina ownership group is challenging a state-issued permit that would allow for the construction of 49 Hunters Point docks along the canal. The permit challenge hearing that began in June is scheduled to resume on Tuesday, Aug. 16 at 9:30 a.m. and continue on Wednesday and Thursday. The hearing can be accessed via Zoom videoconferencing software by entering the meeting ID, 2965656070, and the meeting passcode, 133626. The hearing can be accessed by phone by calling 1-929-436-2866 and entering the meeting ID, pressing the pound symbol (#) and entering the meeting passcode.
FROM PAGE 1 to five or seven days per week. He also said service might one day be expanded to include Longboat Key, Sarasota and/or Palmetto, where an eight-story hotel is currently being built near the convention center. Falcione told the Anna Maria Commission the estimated trip from downtown Bradenton to the Anna Maria City Pier would take about 30 minutes, and another 20 minutes to travel from the City Pier to the Bridge Street Pier in Bradenton Beach.Commissioner Mark Short estimated a round trip from downtown Bradenton and back would take about two hours and result in each boat making approximately four round trips per day. Short said it’s important that the county-run Island trolley system be able to accommodate the additional ridership created when dozens of water taxi passengers arrive at the City Pier and require additional ground transport to their desired destinations elsewhere on the Island. Falcione said the water taxi fare might be in the $8-$10 range but those details are still being worked out. Falcione said Manatee County will subsidize some of the costs associated with the privately contracted water taxi service and those financial details are being handled by County Administrator Scott Hopes. In reference to previous suggestions made by Mayor Dan Murphy and Commissioner Jon Crane, Falcione said restaurant, lodging and other service industry employees would be able to ride the water taxis for free, with some proof of employment needed. Crane said it’s great that service workers would ride for free, but he’s concerned about the water taxis only running three days a week. He suggested expanding the days of service before expanding service to additionalFalcionelocations.acknowledged that a water taxi service that runs three days a week and ends at 9:30 p.m. will not fully meet the transportation needs of the Island’s service industry employees – some of whom work until 11 p.m. or later. Murphy said he loves the idea of service workers riding for free because they make up a significant percentage of those who travel by car from the mainland to the Island.“One of the primary concerns of our residents, and our commissioners as well, is that a water taxi should reduce congestion. It should have a positive impact on what’s coming across that bridge. If you can make it advantageous for them (the employees), I think you’ll really bring a great benefit to this Island,” Murphy said. Commissioner Robert Kingan said service workers will also need free parking to make the service viable for them. Falcione said county staff is working on that and there’s a parking garage in downtown Bradenton within walking distance of the Bradenton day dock. When acknowledging the water taxis will also be used by tourists to travel between Anna Maria and Bradenton Beach, Falcione said, “There’s going to be people from Iowa or Indiana that just want to do it for entertainment purposes.” Reiterating a point he’s made during previous discussions, Falcione said past research indicates 60% of the visitors who stayed in three downtown Bradenton hotels took day trips to Anna Maria Island during their Commissionvisits.Chair Carol Carter asked if the water taxi service would be marketed to visitors coming from nearby Hillsborough and Pasco counties. Falcione said that Convention and Visitors Bureau Marketing and Communications Director Kolby Gayson has already been tasked with making visitors and locals aware of the water taxi service and any associated parkingFalcioneaccommodations.soughtandreceived informal city commission consensus authorizing the mayor to draft an interlocal agreement for the county’s use of the City Pier as a water taxi stop. Murphy said he would provide the city commission with a draft agreement for preliminary discussion on Thursday, Aug. 25.
Registration requested for Hunters Point canal users
WATER TAXI: Plan headed to county commission
28 THE SUN www.amisun.com AUGUST 17, 2022 Perico Bay Club—As Good As It Gets!! Give me a call today if yoouu re lookinggGive me a call if yo e lookinree to Buy or Sell on Anna Maria Isla nddBuyy or Sell on Anna MariaM IslaMariMaria or the surroundi ng area!a!Islaanounding aoun Lynn Zemmer 941 ding 41 area 1 73030 ea 0 1294949 941.209.1542 I Lynn@Edgewaterami.com www.EdgewaterRealEstateInc .com 106 Bridge Stre et, Bradenton Beach, FL 342 17 Business As Usual…..Just A Li le Differently If you’re looking to buy or sell in Perico Bay Club, or know someone who is, please give me a call! 941.730.1294 | Ly n n@Edgewate ra mi.c om www.EdgewaterRealEstateInc.co m COVID-19 high in Manatee County JULY 31 Cases 330 % Positivity 26.24% Deaths 0 % Eligible population vaccinated 72.9% New hospital admissions 73 AUG. 14 Cases 202 % Positivity 23.13% Deaths 0 % Eligible population vaccinated 73% New hospital admissions 62 Source: Centers for Disease Control and Prevention Manatee County community level of COVID-19 transmission
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8/7, 10:45 p.m., Code Ordinance Violation/camping, 4000 Gulf Drive. While on patrol, the officer saw a man asleep on the bus stop bench. The officer called out to the man, who was very irate that he had been woken up. The man said he had missed the last bus and was going to sleep there until morning when the next bus came. The officer told him this was illegal and if he didn’t leave, he would be arrested. The man said he had lost his cane and was having obvious trouble walking, so the officer offered him a ride into town, which the man accepted. 8/8, 3:09 p.m., trespass warning, 3602 E. Bay Drive. Responding to a call to Alvin’s Island, the officer arrived in reference to juveniles concealing merchandise, which was caught on security cameras. One juvenile who was with her mother gave back some bracelets she had in the front of her pants. The second juvenile was not observed with any merchandise and was let go. The female juvenile who had concealed the bracelets was trespassed along with her mother.
Liz Blandford - Listing Diana Sinisi - Selling SATO REAL ESTATE Barbara Sato - Listing Liza Walker - Selling WAGNER REAL ESTATE
Christine Kourik - Listing Noranne Hutcheson - Selling SALTY MERMAID REAL ESTATE
Amanda Schwartz - Listing Nicole Botero - Selling real estate producers
REALTY GROUP
HOLMES BEACH 8/3, 5:02 p.m., trespass warning, 3900 E. Bay Drive. The officer responded to Publix supermarket in reference to a male subject laying on the ground near the entrance of the store. The store manager requested the man be trespassed from the property, at which time the officer notified the man he was to leave and not return.
A PARADISE Doug Walker – Listing & Selling AN ISLAND PLACE REALTY Sue Carlson - Listing Doug Shaw - Selling DUNCAN REAL ESTATE
Michelle Laade - Listing Darcie Duncan - Selling EDGEWATER REAL ESTATE Lynn Zemmer – Listing & Selling FRAN MAXON Sharon and Tim Villars – Listing & Selling ISLAND REAL ESTATE Team of Kathleen White and Erin Leathem –Listing & Selling LOCALS
AUGUST 17, 2022 www.amisun.com THE SUN 29 Sotheby’s International Realty ® and the Sotheby’s International Realty logo are registered ser vice marks used with permission. Each o ce is independently owned and operated. Equal Housing Oppor tunity Proper ty information herein is derived from various sources including, but not limited to, county records and multiple listing services, and may include approximations. All information is deemed accurate. LA KE WO OD RA NC H | 94 1. 90 7. 95 41 LO NGBO AT KE Y | 94 1. 383. 2500 RENTAL S | 94 1. 203. 3433SA RA SO TA - DO WNT OW N | 94 1. 36 4.4000 VENICE | 94 1. 41 2.3 32 3 Pre mierSotheb ys Realty. com Contact us f or a conf idential consultationyour home has never been WORTH MORE 6321 Gulf Drive $1,100 000 Clint K asten9 41 .780.2 91 2 HOLMES BEACH 5815 7th Avenue Drive West $724 900 Nathan Mathers 941.720.0408 FAIRWAY ACRES 5206 24th Avenue Drive West $899 000 Holly Switow9 41 .735.318 6 GROVE HAVEN 9804 2nd Terrace NW $3,850 000 Amy Royall9 41 .8 07.286 3 PALMA SOLA POINTE 1309 63rd Stre et West $790 000 Nathan Mathers 941.720.0408 VILL AGE GREEN View area listings 30 8 South Bay Boulevard $5,4 50 000 Shellie Young 941.713. 54 58 WELLS BAY HARBOR
BEACH BEAT
Anita Jones - Listing Team Sunshine Girls - Selling MICHAEL SAUNDERS Kathy Harman - Listing Betsy Hagen and Laura Rulon - Selling PREMIER SOTHEBY Shellie Young – Listing & Selling REMAX ALLIANCE GROUP
BRADENTON BEACH 8/7, 11:24 p.m., noise complaint, 2512 Ave. A. The officer responded to a loud noise complaint. The anonymous complainant advised the noise was coming from a nearby residence, with an exact address not given. After searching the area, no loud noise could be heard and no further action was taken. 8/9, 1:20 a.m., Marchman Act, 200 Gulf Drive. While on patrol, the officer saw a man stumbling and falling in the roadway. When the officer made contact with the man, he was observed to be heavily intoxicated and admitted to drinking too much with friends and not having his wallet or phone. Due to the man’s level of intoxication, the officer placed the man in protective custody under the Marchman Act and transported him to Blake Hospital where he was released to medical staff.
for July 2022
Elaine's family extends beyond the island. Joe's three children became Elaine's. And those three had nine children who were a true joy to their grandmother. And those nine brought 12 great-grandchildren into the world to carry forward the memory of their Gigi. Many mourn her and will forever remember the light that she brought to their lives.
Elaine Chase Jackson Elaine Chase Jackson quietly passed away on Aug. 5 after years of fighting cancer, as with far too many others.Shewas born in Rhode Island, raised in Jackson, New Hampshire and was a 1965 graduate of the University of New Hampshire, with a brief stint as a hippie girl in San Francisco and a loyal employee of the Jack Frost Shop. Then at age 33, despite joking about forever being an old maid, Elaine found her great love, Joe Jackson, and they married in 1977. Then began their great adventure. Other than her choice to marry Joe, Elaine always said that her best decision was to move to Anna Maria Island, where she and Joe bought a house on Key Royale Drive in 2001. Elaine truly loved her AMI family of friends, those who were her neighbors and friends, those she met each morning on her beach walks, those who enjoyed her July 4 party, those who were lucky enough to be invited to dinner, her Sunday card playing buddies, her book club and sailing club friends, and all of those who supported her through those dark months of Joe's illness and death in 2011.
OBITUARIES
30 THE SUN www.amisun.com AUGUST 17, 2022
FRE CallDEHOMEELIVERYforDetails778-3986
Stephen Anthony Morris
Collectively, his love extended to the lives of 21 beautiful grandchildren: Sierra, Sylas, Sydney, Spencer, Rosalie, Piper, Luella, Alex, Zachary, Lilaina, Ezekiel, Marty, Lizzie, Ellie, Hayden, Lily, Reagan, Aaliyah, Phelix, Elias and Ares. Steve was born at Bradenton General Hospital to George and Aida Morris on June 6, 1949. In his early years, he resided in Tampa, Holmes Beach, Cuba and Puerto Rico, all of which shaped his love of the beach. In 1970, he met and married his sweetheart, Beth, in Bradenton, Florida. In 1978 with a family of five, Steve’s life was directed to the ministry. The family relocated to Chicago for his education in Bible College. In 1986, the family returned to the Gulf coast (now with seven children) where Steve began his work as a Baptist minister. He and Beth had their final two children in Bradenton all while serving the ministry. Steve maintained lifelong friends that he lovingly appreciated. He was an extremely generous person, providing many with an open ear and heart throughout his life. He was a loving father and grandfather who will be missed by all who loved him. The legacy he and Beth created together will continue to grow and his family will always cherish what was most important to them, the love of a big family. We would love for you to come and honor his life with a Visitation on Saturday, Aug. 27, 2022 from 10 a.m. to noon, followed by a Celebration of Life at noon at Brown & Sons Funeral Homes & Crematory 26th Street Chapel, 5624 26th St. W., Bradenton, Florida 34207. Following the service, a Celebration of Life reception will be held at Trinity Baptist Church, 5116 26th St. W., Bradenton, Florida 34207. We invite anyone who knew him to attend and remember Steve’s wonderful life. Condolences may be made to www. brownandsonsfuneral.com.
AUGUST 17, 2022 www.amisun.com THE SUN 31
Stephen Anthony Morris of Bradenton, Florida passed away peacefully surrounded by his children on Aug. 2, 2022. He was a loving father of nine children and a grandfather to 21 grandchildren. Steve was predeceased by his wife of 42 years, Elizabeth Ann “Beth” Morris; and brother, George Morris. He is survived by a large family legacy, including siblings, Deanna Dorvillier and Myra Feely and their families. Steve is also survived by his sons, Rhett (Melanie), of Russellville Kentucky, Jeremy (Emily), of Tampa, Florida, Joe (Sherry), of Tampa, Florida, Paul (Patti Reese), of Holmes Beach, Florida, RJ (Brittany), of Holiday, Florida and Sam (Elizabeth Myers), of Bradenton, Florida; and daughters, Amy (Al) Ballantyne, of Bradenton, Florida, April (Dave) Viegel, of Venice, Florida, and Leena (Javier) Guerrero of Bradenton, Florida.
Charles K. Price
Charles K. Price of Stone River Retirement, Bradenton, Florida, peacefully passed away on Friday, July 22, 2022 at the age of 100. Previously a 32-year resident of Colony Cove in Ellenton, Charlie was predeceased by his wife, Gertrude "Boots" Shupe; and son, Charles Jr., fondly known as Spanky. He is survived by his loving companion, Marjorie Finch; and a cousin, Mary LouCharlieRobinson.wasborn on March 10, 1922. He was a WWII veteran serving with the U.S. Army Air Corps as a 1st Lieutenant, B-25 bomber pilot, flying 61 combat missions. After his Army career, he was a plant engineer for Schmidt's Brewery. Charlie was well known for his vivid stories of his careers and his quick wit, and as a beer and golf enthusiast. Charlie will be remembered by his plethora of friends from Stone River, Colony Cove, patrons and employees of Anna Maria Oyster Bar, his loyal comrades from Great Lakes Brewery in Cleveland, Ohio and beyond. A date will be announced in the near future for a full Military Service to be held at Sarasota National Cemetery, 9810 State Road 72, Sarasota, Florida 34241.
OBITUARIES
MONICA SIMPSON | SUN Evelyn Long’s volleyball camp was a hit at The Center. Back row, from left, are Evelyn Long, Sophia Keown, Estella Long, Emma Raulerson, Chloe Stenberg, Audrey Guess, Brielle Fitzsimmons, Rivers Kesten and Katy Roadman. Middle row, from left, are Kaylee Schauer, Lilah Sebastian, Addie Guess, Savanna Coba, Bella Roadman, Madi Darak, Lily Worth, Piper Payne and Avery Guess. Front row, from left, are McKenna Darak, Penny Payne, Myla Walding, Chloe Walding and Aria Roadman.
32 THE SUN SPORTS AUGUST 17, 2022
The Center and Long plan to continue to bring the volleyball specialty camp to the summer program, as well as conduct high school volleyball clinics for higher-level players.Thefuture for Long includes building the volleyball program at Inspiration Academy after taking a hiatus to grow her family and help with the family business, Solid Rock Construction. The next generation of volleyball players in the family is being nurtured now that Long is coaching her daughter,ReturningEstella.tocoaching also allowed Long to reunite with her sisters in volleyball.“Katy…lends me so much help,” she said. “She has many years of coaching experience at various capacities from club to high school. I truly couldn't do it alone and love coaching alongside her and Christy.” Long and her sisters continue to play volleyball together. “Our love for Jesus, family and volleyball truly binds us together as sisters,” Long said.
“I know I find a lot of joy in seeing new players progress and learn the sport, but it brought even greater joy to see one of my players find that same excitement,” she said. For Long, the most important accomplishment in volleyball is “… seeing former players take what they have learned from the sport of volleyball and apply these principles of hard work, humility and team effort into their personal lives.”
Long brings volleyball camp to The Center
Long has never had to play against any of her sisters during her long and successful volleyball career. Her coaching career began when she was 19 years old. Long coached for Club Ignite in Brevard County and has continued coaching at all levels. Long was named Northeastern Athletic Conference Coach of the Year inCoaching2013. for club volleyball teams, Long later coached alongside her sister, Katy Roadman. Keeping the family ties strong, Roadman and Christy Raulerson, Long’s oldest sister, both support the Inspiration Academy volleyball program as assistant coaches with Head Coach Long. Long started the Inspiration Academy girls volleyball program.
BY MONICA SIMPSON SPECIAL TO THE SUN ANNA MARIA - For over 14 years, Evelyn Long has brought her knowledge and love of the game, experience as a player and talents as a coach to youth volleyball. Coaching in Tampa, Florida to Lancaster, Pennsylvania, Long and her amazing sisters improved the skills of nearly two dozen players during the last week of summer camp at The Center of Anna Maria Island. Playing volleyball with her sisters since elementary school, Long played in high school for her older sister, Cindy Stenberg, at Cambridge Christian School. Coach Stenberg, an All-American setter, set the bar for her sisters in the world of volleyball. Among her many accomplishments and accolades during her volleyball career, both as a player and a coach, Long was the 2005 Rose Diaz Award Recipient and was the 2004-05 Florida All State Setter. The Hillsborough County Volleyball Officials Association gives the Rose Diaz Award to a player who exemplifies sportsmanship and leadership each year. As a setter, Long played with her younger sister, Peggy Smith, for a year in high school and at Clearwater Christian College for two years. Smith, a right-side hitter, was later coached by Long at Lancaster Bible College. “It was so amazing to share a bond on and off the court,” Long said. The bond continues as Long plays alongside Smith, including at The Center. “We have a natural rhythm and flow because of our years playing together,” Long said.
This summer, Long and her assistant coaches conducted the four-day volleyball camp for The Center. With her sisters, Roadman and Raulerson, Long was joined by niece and Blake High School volleyball player Chloe Stenberg, who shared her experience and knowledge as an active competitive player. The camp gave girls who attend Anna Maria Elementary School and King Middle School a chance to meet new players. Long’s reputation as a strong coach drew players from Inspiration Academy to the Island, as well as several players who are homeschooled.Thehighlight of the camp for Long was seeing players support the accomplishments of others.
Across 1 Like Jack Sprat, one would expect 5 Role in a Gershwin opera 9 13FellowHermusical career started at age 16 at the Cotton Club 15 Pre-euro currency 16 Atomic physicist's favorite cookie? 17 "__ a girl who sang the blues": Don McLean lyric 18 Musicologist's term 19 Deity with an eponymous day 20 Gaping mouths 21 Uncommon sense 22 Atomic physicist's favorite Golden Age movie 25star?U.N. Security Council permanent member 26 Poetic adverb 27 Say further 29 Word after look or 32soundWafer brand 34 "__ awake?" 35 Atomic physicist's favorite side dish? 38 Consume 39 Lion __ 40 Mounted, as gems 41 Rightmost bowling pin 42 Wrath 43 Not leave alone 44 Atomic physicist's favorite wall builder? 48 Beret relative 51 Move a bit 52 Superior cousin? 53 Takes charge of 54 Filled food 55 Atomic physicist's favorite spy novelist? 57 Painter Nolde 58 As initially evident 59 Cozy places 60 Comprehends 61 Cretaceous giant Down 1 Lingerie items 2 Assistance, with "a" 3 Accommodating places 4 W.C.'s "My Little Chickadee" co-star 5 '80s South African 8visitor76presidentMisstepCoralreefSnoweof ME, once 9 Begin a flight 10 Region from the Sanskrit for "snow abode" 11 "Anything else?" 12 Light touches 14 Many Rwandans 16 Other side 22 He directed Samuel in "Pulp Fiction" 23 Do a vet's job 24 Versatile mount 25 "Notorious" studio 28 Roomba target 29 Lie next to 30 Falls behind 31 Possible "Finish your tax return yet?" reply 32 "Got any examples at all?" 33 Dick was his veep 36 __ minimum 37 U.K. part 43 Holiday songs 45 Tests without papers 46 Orange Muppet 47 Goes (through) carefully 48 Safer way to think 49 Wing 50 Umami source 51 Broke the law, in a way 53 congresswomanMinnesota Ilhan __ 55 Apple product 56 Young newt Answers Crossword08-10-22toPuzzle. AUGUST 17, 2022 FUN IN THE SUN THE SUN 33
34 THE SUN CLASSIFIED AUGUST 17, 2022 Call us today! 941-778-3986 ANNOUNCEMENTS BEACH YOGA ON Wednesdays, Saturdays & Sundays at 8:30am at the end of Pine Ave by the Sandbar Restaurant by donation. Classes on Tuesdays & Fridays at 8:30 at 100 Broadway St. on LBK. www.thriveyogafit.com THE BEST VOLUNTEER position on the island. The AMI Historical Museum needs docents and bread makers. Call Kathy Primeau at only.betweenAdamscontactshifts.MorningandlookingBRADENTONTINGLEYandChurch,boxesPRODUCTS.&perishableofneedsROSER989-560-6381.FOODBANKdonationscashandnon-food,PAPERPERSONALHYGIENEDonationsarelocatedattheMooseClub,Walgreen’s.LIBRARYINBEACHisforvolunteers.Funfriendlyatmosphere.andafternoonIfinterested,pleaselibraryclerkEveannat941-779-1208,10-3,Tues.-Fri. CARE GIVER CAREGIVER LOOKING TO provide help for that special someone. Cooking, shopping, cleaning, Dr. appts. etc. Local on island. 30+ yrs. 1227.References.experience.Call941-374COMMERCIAL SALES, RENT & LEASE HAVE YOU BEEN thinking of selling? We NEED properties to List for SALE!!! Duplexes, multi family, small resorts? Call BIG Alan Galletto of Island Real Estate to get it SOLD 941-232-2216 CLEANING SERVICE TOTAL HOME SERVICES CLEANING : Residential, Commercial, Rentals, VRBO. Professional and Reliable. Call 941-7564570 or 941-565-3931 EMPLOYMENT HOUSEKEEPER F/T, PT, Hotel on Anna Maria Island. Contact Rick 813735-4373. NOW ENTHUSIASTICHIRING front desk and sales person and Esthetician. Leah Chavie Skincare 6646 Cortez Rd W, Bradenton 941-896-7225 The award-winning ANNA MARIA ISLAND SUN, a weekly newspaper on Florida’s Gulf Coast, is looking for a Field,FLP.OThelettersaandpreviousresidentsforsomenewspaperexperiencereportingidealtourism-driventoreporter/photographerfreelancecovereventsonthisisland.Thecandidatewillhaveandphotographyatacommunityandhaveexperiencewritinganewswebsite.Localorthosewithlocalknowledgewillingtorelocatehereplus.ResumesandcovermaybemailedtoAnnaMariaIslandSun,Box1189,AnnaMaria,34216,Attention:Mikepublisher. ESTATE SALE ESTATE SALE FRIDAY AUGUST 19. 9:30-2PM. 200 24TH St N., Bradenton Beach 34217. Park on one side of street. Leather couch with electric recliner, matching love seat, painted cabinets, dinning room table, chairs & buffet. King size TempurPedic bed, queen size bed, electronics including Yamaha surrounds sound, Pfaltzgraff with seahorse motif, Kenmore vacuum, large TV cabinet, Delphi miter saw, lots of Scuba equipment, linens, 4 Cruiser bikes, tools, Kenmore Dishwasher & microwave, GE glass top electric stove, decorative accessories. Sale conducted by Palma Sola Sales. Numbers given out at 8am. 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
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TOPPER FOR F150 Long bed. $100 or Best Offer. Call 941-705-7560. YARD GARAGE SALE 105 28th St, Holmes Beach. Friday/ Saturday 9am - 3pm
SALES
GARAGE,RUMMAGEMOVING, &
36 THE SUN www.amisun.com AUGUST 17, 2022
