Anna Maria Island Sun August 5, 2020

- Named Best Florida Newspaper In Its Class -

VOL 20 No. 43

August 5, 2020

Summer storm rising CONNOR FIELD | SUN

A full moon shines high above an Anna Maria Island beach at sunset as a colorful summer storm builds on the horizon.

Commission rejects Ugly Grouper pier lease offer City concerns included the number of proposed seats and the proposed buildout costs.

BY JOE HENDRICKS SUN CORRRESPONDENT | jhendricks@amisun.com

ANNA MARIA – The Anna Maria City Commission has rejected Ugly Grouper LLC’s offer to lease the city-owned restaurant and bait shop buildings on the new City Pier.

Thursday night, the commission voted 3-2 in favor of rejecting the lease offer presented by Mike Ross, co-owner of the Ugly Grouper restaurant in Holmes Beach. The motion made by Commissioner Jon Crane

INSIDE NEWS 4 BUSINESS

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OUTDOORS

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REAL ESTATE

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OBITUARIES

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and supported by commissioners Carol Carter and Amy Tripp also terminated those lease discussions and negotiations.

Although they shared many of the same concerns regarding the offer presented, commissioners Joe Muscatello and Mark Short opposed Crane’s motion and supported giving Ross and Mayor Dan Murphy two more weeks to continue their negotiations.

In the wake of the decision, the city’s immediate goal is to find a vendor to operate a bait shop and snack bar, while questions remain regarding the need for a full-service restaurant on the pier.

SEE PIER, PAGE 27

COVID-19 claims friend of Turtle Watch

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

BRADENTON BEACH – Nearly every day, morning beachgoers saw Marie Donahue walking the beach, finding sea turtle tracks and enjoying the shorebirds, the dolphins and the Gulf of Mexico.

Suzi Fox is one of them. When Fox finished her survey of the beach each day as director of Anna Maria Island Turtle Watch and Shorebird Monitoring, she would often look up at Marie’s condo on Third Street and Marie would call out, “Coffee and cinnamon buns!”

Fox is heartbroken over the death of her friend from COVID-19 on July 25.

Donahue, 91, of Bradenton Beach, was a longtime friend of Turtle Watch, introduced to sea turtles in the program’s infancy by one of Turtle Watch’s original volunteers, “Turtle Donahue Tom” Van Ness, Fox said.

“They were pioneers of Turtle Watch,” she said. “They walked the beach as citizen scientists. She really knew what she was talking about. She caught things others missed.”

For many years, the two women met frequently for lunch.

“I felt so rich with her as my personal SEE DONAHUE, PAGE 7

LIVIN’ ‘ THE dream

TURTLE NESTING down this

at North Shore Cafe in Anna Maria. 15

season on Anna Maria Island. 4 AME leads county in choosing

on-site learning . 8

CLASSIFIEDS 30

Anna Maria Island, Florida

The Island’s award-winning weekly newspaper www.amisun.com

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THE SUN

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Alcohol ordinance vetoed by mayor Men would be required to wear shirts or upper body coverings in outdoor areas that allow on-premise alcohol consumption.

Murphy told The Sun this was the first time he’s vetoed a commission action and he’s not aware of any of his mayoral predecessors exercising their veto power.

According to the city charter, the commission could override the veto with a 4-1 supermajority vote of the commission at a future meeting.

BY JOE HENDRICKS SUN CORRESPONDENT | jhendricks@amisun.com

ANNA MARIA – Mayor Dan Murphy vetoed on Monday an alcoholic beverages ordinance adopted by the City Commission that would have required males to wear shirts or upper body coverings even in the outdoor areas of establishments that sell alcohol for on-premise consumption.

An underlying ordinance prohibited businesses that sell alcohol on site from allowing women customers to expose portions of their breasts. Commissioners amended that ordinance on Thursday, July 30 by a 4-1 vote to expand the prohibition to males.

Commissioner Jon Crane cast the only opposition vote due to his concerns about the new gender-neutral language recommended by the Planning and Zoning Board replacing the word “female” with the words “person” or “persons.”

The adopted, amended ordinance required Murphy’s signature before it took effect and late Monday morning he informed city com-

EXPOSURE CONCERNS

JOE HENDRICKS | SUN

The Sandbar restaurant in Anna Maria features an outdoor area that attracts male and female beachgoers of all ages. missioners and Planning and Zoning Board members of his decision to veto the ordinance.

“I regret that I did not weigh in on this ordinance at that time and apologize to all of you for not having done so. However, after reviewing this ordinance in detail and its implications both from an applicability as well as an enforcement perspective, I have come to the following conclusions: • “The ordinance has far-reaching effects on the restaurant business. More public and impacted business owner input should be sought in this matter and considered during a re-write of this ordinance.

• “In that we live in a beach community, the

social expectations and requirements for attire in all public places tends to be less stringent than in a more formal environment.

• “The enforcement of this ordinance would be difficult and could lead to charges of selective enforcement or ‘targeting,’ ” Murphy’s email said.

“In accordance with Article IV, 4.03, e. of our City Charter, I am opting to exercise a veto to this ordinance for the above stated reasons and ask that you reconsider and modify this ordinance in the very near future. Under Article III, Sec. 3.13, of our City Charter, you may opt to exercise your authority to override this veto,” Murphy’s email concluded.

Before the ordinance was amended, the existing ordinance read, “It shall be unlawful for any person maintaining, owning or operating a commercial establishment located within the incorporated area of the city at which alcoholic beverages are offered for sale for consumption on the premises to permit any female, while on the premises of the commercial establishment, to expose to the public view that area of the female breast at or below the areola.”

The amended ordinance referred to not permitting any “person” to expose their breast while at a bar or restaurant that serves alcohol.

Similar provisions pertained to the exposure any person’s genitals, pubic area, buttocks, anus or gluteal cleft.

“This gender-neutral thing, which I admire theoretically, is problematic,” Crane said.

SEE ALCOHOL, PAGE 23

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ISLAND NEWS

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AUGUST 5, 2020

IN BRIEF

Sun earns three press awards The Anna Maria Island Sun won three awards in the Florida Press Association’s 2020 weekly Newspaper Contest on July 31.

First place in the Outdoor and Recreation category was awarded to Cindy Lane for a series of articles on duck hunting near Perico Preserve, Robinson Preserve and Neal Preserve.

Second place in the humorous column category went to Cindy Lane for “Florida flotsam washes up on European beaches,” a story about plastic cups from an Anna Maria Island beach restaurant that were discovered along Europe’s Atlantic coastline.

Third place in local government reporting was awarded to Joe Hendricks for a series on the removal of Australian pine trees from Coquina Beach in the city of Bradenton Beach.

Roser launches virtual choir practice With COVID-19 pushing regular worship services into a modified format, some community members may be missing their usual choir practice and performances. The dual directors of music ministry at Roser Memorial Community Church, Craig Ramberger and associate Brandon Kouri, have developed a way to get choir members to stop singing the blues and get back to singing hymns and gospel classics. The two created a video series called The Chancel Connection, a funny, inspiring way for choir members to keep up with their singing practice safely at home when singing in the church choir isn’t an option. The videos, lessons and support from the two directors are open to everyone, not just members of the Roser choir. To join in on the fun, visit www.roserchurch.com/music-ministry.

Voting precincts consolidated; poll workers needed Because of the COVID-19 pandemic, the Manatee County Supervisor of Elections Office is consolidating voting precincts for the primary elections that conclude Tuesday, Aug. 18.

Elections official Karen Jones emailed Monday that the office is consolidating 13 precincts for the primary.

“This is due to seasoned poll workers not comfortable working on election day due to the pandemic.

In order to ensure that we have an experienced clerk at each voting location, we have to combine 13 precincts. Letters are being mailed to those voters affected by this consolidation. To see if you will be affected by this change, visit our website, www.VoteManatee.com,” Jones’ email said.

It also said those interested in being trained to work at a precinct for the Nov. 3 presidential election should contact the Elections Office at 941-7413823, send an email to info@VoteManatee.com. or visit their website at www.VoteManatee.com and click on the red “poll worker” link along the left side of the page then click on “Become a Poll Worker.”

CINDY LANE | SUN

Nests are clustered on parts of AMI beaches that are not being renourished, relocated there by Turtle Watch volunteers.

Turtle nesting down on AMI

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

As sea turtle nesting winds down this season, nesting statistics are down from last year’s record of 544 nests to 332 nests.

Among the possible reasons COVID-19.

When the coronavirus arrived on the Island, Anna Maria Island Turtle Watch and Shorebird Monitoring Director Suzi Fox decided to sharply reduce the number of volunteers who walk the beaches finding and staking off nests and excavating them after they hatch to count the eggshells.

“We have to be safe,” she said, asking that beachgoers avoid approaching Turtle Watchers on the beach and call 941-778-5638 instead.

With a reduced workforce, Fox decided not to count turtle nests or hatchlings in the city of Anna Maria this year, only keeping statistics on Holmes Beach and Bradenton Beach nesting and hatching. The permit under which Turtle Watch operates does not require the organization to keep nesting statistics for beaches that are not renourished, she said, and Anna Maria is not included in the

beach renourishment project now underway and scheduled to end in October or November.

Renourishment replaces sand on the beach that has been lost to erosion, protecting it from future erosion from storms and protecting upland buildings and roads.

Nests laid on the bay side of the Island – which is also not being renourished – are not being counted either, and may account for another 50 to 60 nests, she estimated.

Turtles also may be avoiding nesting on the Island’s beaches when they sense renourishment activities, which includes heavy equipment working 24 hours a day under bright lights at night, when turtles nest. Sea turtles typically avoid lights, often returning to the Gulf of Mexico without nesting if they see lights from beachfront buildings, parking lots or streets.

While nesting is not approaching last year’s record, it is still above the 20-year average of 252 nests, according to Turtle Watch statistics.

Statistics on hatchings also are down from record numbers at the start of hatchling season, with 3,095 hatchlings documented so far as having made it to the Gulf

CINDY LANE | SUN

Nesting is down this year in part because of the coronavirus. from their nests. The record, set in 2018, is 35,788 hatchlings. The 20-year average is 13,123.

The renourishment project has necessitated relocating turtle nests in Holmes Beach and Bradenton Beach to one beach in Anna Maria unaffected by renourishment, but Fox said that should not affect the number of hatchings.

The hatchlings have three more months to go to catch up - sea turtle season lasts from May 1 to Oct. 31 on Anna Maria Island.

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AUGUST 5, 2020

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Bradenton Beach Commission supports county face-covering mandate The county mandate is applicable and enforceable in Bradenton Beach.

BY JOE HENDRICKS SUN CORRESPONDENT | jhendricks@amisun.com

BRADENTON BEACH – Four-fifths of the Bradenton Beach City Commission supports Manatee County’s face covering mandate. Commissioner Ralph Cole does not.

The city commission reached a 4-1 consensus of support during its weekly emergency special commission meeting on Tuesday, July 28.

One day earlier, Manatee County commissioners voted 4-3 to implement a mandatory face covering resolution that applies inside many businesses in unincorporated Manatee County. The county mandate also applies to cities within the county that don’t have their own local mask mandates in place, including Bradenton Beach.

The Bradenton Beach Commission previously recommended wearing masks but has no formal mask mandate in place, which means the county resolution applies to many Bradenton Beach businesses, employees and patrons.

“I think it’s important to follow governor’s orders and also follow the lead and stay on the same page as Manatee County,” Mayor John Chappie said.

Chappie said his support for the county resolution stems in part from the fact that one-third of the city is comprised of county-owned land, including Coquina Beach, Cortez Beach and the Coquina North and Coquina South boat ramps.

City Attorney Ricinda Perry did not participate in Tuesday’s meeting, but Chappie said she could be directed to draft an opt-out document if that was the commission’s wish.

“I think we should stay in line with the county,” Vice Mayor Jake Spooner said.

“I agree, stay with the county,” Commissioner Marilyn Maro said.

Cole then explained his opposition to the county mask mandate.

“I go along with the three county commissioners that went the other way because I believe you’re going to create more problems and more argumentation than what it’s worth,” Cole said.

He then referenced the emergency mask ordinance previously enacted in Holmes Beach and the emergency mask order previously enacted in Anna Maria.

FAMILY-OWNED SINCE 1983

I think we should stay in line with the county.”

Jake Spooner, Bradenton Beach Commissioner

I just believe it should be your choice. If you want to make that choice, put that mask on.”

Ralph Cole, Bradenton Beach Commissioner “I believe you’re going to have troubles enforcing it. As I walk around Holmes Beach and Anna Maria wearing my mask, I see lot of people not wearing a mask.

I just believe it should be your choice. If you want to make that choice, put that mask on,” Cole said, noting people also need to maintain proper social distancing and frequently wash their hands.

Cole expressed concerns about the mask mandate being divisive and creating confrontations.

“If you want to go this way, I think Manatee County should police it,” Cole said. “I’m sure there’s a lot of good things about wearing a mask, but there’s also a lot of bad. I don’t think it’s worth making it mandatory.”

Commissioner Jan Vosburgh then said, “I have to agree with a of lot things Ralph said. It makes a lot of sense to me, but under the circumstances I would be voting for the resolution.”

ENFORCEMENT ISSUES

Police Chief Sam Speciale and Lt. John Cosby shared their thoughts on enforcement.

Speciale said he would like Perry’s input on which questions an officer can legally ask when inquiring about someone’s refusal to wear a mask, including medical reasons that could be subject SEE MANDATE, PAGE 11

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OPINION

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

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

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ON THE AGENDA ANNA MARIA

Aug. 18, 9:15 a.m. – City Commission emergency special meeting

10005 GULF DRIVE FOR INFORMATION, CALL 941-7086130

HOLMES BEACH

City hall is open to the public with limited capacity and safety protocols in place. Please visit www. cityofannamaria.com or contact city hall for more information.

Aug. 13, 2 p.m. – City Commission special meeting Aug. 17, 4 p.m. – Planning and Zoning Board meeting

City hall is currently closed to the public. All meetings will be held virtually until further notice.

Aug. 18, 6 p.m. – City Commission meeting with work session to follow Aug. 19, 10 a.m. – Code Compliance special magistrate hearing

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

MARK YOUR CALENDAR

BRADENTON BEACH

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

City hall is open to the public with limited capacity and safety protocols in place. Please visit www.cityofbradentonbeach.com or contact city hall for more information.

Aug. 5, 9:30 a.m. – Community Redevelopment Agency meeting Aug. 6, 6 p.m. – City Commission meeting Aug. 11, 9:15 a.m. – City Commission emergency special meeting Aug. 11, 9:30 a.m. – City Commission budget work meeting Aug. 11, 11 a.m. – Community Redevelopment Agency budget work meeting

August 5 - August 18 The Island Branch Library is open at 40% capacity. Please wear a face mask/covering.

Tingley Memorial Library is closed.

All classes at area parks and recreation areas are canceled.

The Center of Anna Maria Island is open with social distancing and face masks required.

The Holmes Beach dog park (Scentral Park), skate park, basketball courts and tennis courts are open.

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

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DONAHUE: Friend of Turtle Watch FROM PAGE 1

friend,” Fox said. “She would hear me out and cheer me up and correct me when needed.”

Donahue was so fascinated by turtles, she traveled to the Galapagos Islands to see them, Fox said. She visited six continents, often with family, and was a lifelong patron of the arts and an avid reader. She volunteered at Tingley Memorial Library in Bradenton Beach and the Anna Maria Historical Society.

“She was well spoken and kind to everybody,” Fox recalls. “She was such a part of this Island.”

Because of the coronavirus, “We never got a chance to say goodbye,” she said.

“I’m saddened to know there are people who still don’t believe in this virus,” Fox said. “We need to be reminded that we’re losing our own.

“Right now, we have to protect ourselves,” she said. “This season has been a challenge, but I’ve never been more proud of the volunteers. We are standing on the shoulders of those who have gone before.”

A Catholic Mass will be celebrated for Donahue. Due to the coronavirus, no memorial gathering is planned.

The great-grandmother is one of 186 people in Manatee County who have died from the coronavirus; 8,733 people in the county have reported having COVID-19 according to the Florida Department of Health.

SUBMITTED

Marie Donahue, a friend of Turtle Watch, lost her life to COVID-19.

On Anna Maria Island, 22 people have reported having the coronavirus in Bradenton Beach since its appearance locally in March, with 12 in Holmes Beach, three in Anna Maria and two in Cortez, according to floridadisaster. org.

Nationwide, 4.6 million cases have been reported, with 154,002 deaths, according to the Centers for Disease Control.

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AUGUST 5, 2020

Anna Maria Elementary leads county in choosing on-site learning Students are scheduled to return to Anna Maria Elementary on Monday, Aug. 17.

BY JOE HENDRICKS SUN CORRESPONDENT | jhendricks@amisun.com

HOLMES BEACH – Eighty-two percent of Anna Maria Elementary School students plan to attend school using the in-person, brick-and-mortar learning option if the new school year begins on Monday, Aug. 17 as planned.

That is the highest percentage in Manatee County, according to the school district. Countywide, the average for all 32 elementary schools combined is 69% for those who selected the brick-and-mortar learning option.

Just 18% of AME students will use the at-home, online eLearning option, the District reported, and none opted for the hybrid learning option – a combination of in-school and at-home learning.

At 80%, Ballard Elementary has the second-highest percentage of students who selected the brick-and-mortar method. At 57%, Daughtrey Elementary has the lowest.

At 38%, Daughtrey has the highest percentage of students who selected the eLearning option. At 18%, Anna Maria Elementary and Manatee Elementary have the lowest. Countywide, 27% of elementary students selected eLearning.

Braden River Elementary and Gullett Elementary have the highest percentage of students who selected the hybrid option – 18%.

Anna Maria Elementary is the only school that reported no students selecting the hybrid option.

“All three options, including hybrid, were offered to our parents. I spoke with three or four parents that inquired about the hybrid option but chose to do eLearning or return to brick-andmortar instead,” Anna Maria Elementary Principal Jackie Featherston said via email.

The next lowest elementary schools in terms of hybrid option selections are Samoset Elementary, Ballard Elementary and Tillman Elementary at 1%.

Countywide, 4% of elementary students selected the hybrid option.

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Millage rate stays the same Anna Maria Mayor Dan Murphy proposes maintaining the current 2.05 millage rate that’s been in effect for several years. “We are the lowest millage rate on the Island. I believe we’re the lowest millage rate in the county. If we keep the same millage rate it would net the city an additional $147,437,” Murphy said during the city commission’s July 30 budget meeting. The next budget meeting is tentatively scheduled for Thursday Aug. 13, at 2 p.m.

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AUGUST 5, 2020

GOOD NEWS We invite you to w ship with us

in the sanctuary! www.RoserChurch.com Click WORSHIP-SIGNUP to review the social distancing guidelines and reserve your seat. If you prefer to stay home, please WATCH LIVE and join the chat on YouTube

Sundays at 8:30 & 10:00 AM After the service WATCH LATER! Call the office if you need assistance.

Call the church text ROSER to 22828 to receive the weekly eBulletin.

FACEBOOK> follow> see first, join a group. Need help? Call the office!

The FOOD PANTRY is open to assist island residents/w kers in need.

The CHAPEL is open during office hours f prayer & meditation.

Send PRAYER REQUESTS to info@r erchurch.com call the office.

Call the church office if you would like to talk to a PASTOR. A NON DENOMINATIONAL CHRISTIAN COMMUNITY COMMUNITY CHURCH • 512 Pine Ave, Anna Maria [near Pier]

941-778-0414 • www.RoserChurch.com • Facebook @RoserChurch

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AUGUST 5, 2020

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Mask requirements on AMI vary Anna Maria Island’s three cities have differing requirements for wearing face coverings during the COVID-19 pandemic.

ANNA MARIA

Every person working, living, visiting or doing business in the city of Anna Maria shall properly wear a face covering in any indoor location, other than their home or residence, and maintain social distancing from other people, excluding family members or companions.

Exceptions: • Children under the age of 2; • People for whom a face covering would cause impairment due to an existing health condition; • People working in a business or profession who do not have interactions with other people; • People working in an office when all interactions with others are done with social distancing as recommended by the CDC; • People eating and/or drinking at a restaurant; provided, however, that face coverings must otherwise be worn in restaurants.

• People exercising and social distancing at fitness centers.

BRADENTON BEACH

Bradenton Beach commissioners have not passed a mandate on masks, and unless they do, a Manatee County resolution is in effect in Bradenton Beach.

Everyone must wear a face covering while inside a business.

Exceptions: • Situations in which individuals maintain 6 feet or more distance between persons. This exception does not apply to employees who are present in the kitchen or other food and beverage preparation areas of a business establishment. Nor does it apply to employees serving food or beverages.

• Children under the age of 6.

• People who have trouble breathing due to a chronic pre-existing condition or people with a documented or demonstrable medical problem.

• Public safety, fire, and other life safety and health care personnel who are already governed by their respective agencies.

• Restaurant and bar patrons while eating or drinking. Face coverings must be worn when entering and exiting the establishment and while otherwise standing within 6 feet of other patrons.

MANDATE: Supported by commission FROM PAGE 5

to privacy laws restricting release of medical information (HIPAA).

An initial warning followed by escalating fines for repeat violations resembles the city’s approach to code enforcement compliance, Speciale said.

A non-compliant patron could be

asked to leave a business establishment; a patron also could be trespassed from the property and face potential arrest for future mask infractions at that location, he said.

Cosby said most people are already wearing masks where required and masks are not required when eating or

• Individuals inside a lodging establishment, including hotel and motel rooms, vacation rentals and timeshares.

HOLMES BEACH (EXPIRES AUG. 25)

Owners, managers, employees, customers or patrons of businesses must wear a face covering while in that business.

Exceptions: • Restaurant customers or patrons while dining and/or consuming beverages while seated at a table; • Gym patrons in a workout or class where at least 6 feet of distancing exists with the next closest person; • Barbershop or beauty salon customers or patrons when wearing a face covering would reasonably interfere with receiving services; • Business owners, managers and employees who are in an area of a business that is not open to customers, patrons or the public, provided that 6 feet of distance exists between employees. This exception does not apply to employees who are present in the kitchen or other food and beverage preparation area of a restaurant or food establishment. When an owner, drinking. He said enforcement would not be an issue on the beaches because people there are social distancing.

He also mentioned the ability to trespass a patron and noted that once a non-compliant patron leaves an establishment, the violation no longer exists.

“Every case is going to be unique.

Like everything else we do we’ll play it by ear,” Cosby said.

The Manatee County face-covering

manager or employee is in their place of employment but not within 6 feet of another person, that owner, manager or employee does not need to wear a mask; • Bar patrons while consuming beverages and/or food; • A lodging establishment guest when inside of the lodging unit including but not limited to a hotel room, motel room, vacation rental unit, timeshare unit or similar unit.

• When a customer of a business asserts that he or she has a disability that prevents the individual from wearing a mask, the owner, manager or employee of the business may exclude the individual, even if they have a disability, as they pose a direct threat to the health and safety of employees and other customers, even if asymptomatic, and shall accommodate the disabled individual in a manner that does not fundamentally alter the operations of the business or jeopardize the health of the business’s employees and other customers, such as providing curb service or delivery or other reasonable accommodation.

resolution can be viewed at www. mymanatee.org. Face-covering signs for businesses can also be downloaded there.

As of Sunday, there were 22 positive COVID-19 cases reported in Bradenton Beach since the pandemic began, with 12 in Holmes Beach, three in Anna Maria and two in Cortez.

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AUGUST 5, 2020

Pastor and state representative challenge county mask mandate The lawsuit challenges the constitutionality of Manatee County’s face-covering resolution.

BY JOE HENDRICKS SUN CORRESPONDENT | jhendricks@amisun.com

BRADENTON – Representing Pastor Joel Tillis, attorney and state Rep. Anthony Sabatini (R-Clermont) announced Monday morning that a lawsuit has been filed challenging Manatee County’s mandatory facecovering resolution.

The lawsuit names Tillis as the plaintiff and Manatee County as the defendant. Tillis is the pastor of the Suncoast Baptist Church in Palmetto.

The lawsuit complaint was electronically filed late Sunday night in the 12th Judicial Circuit Court and publicly announced at 10 a.m. Monday morning during the Unmasking Liberty Rally held in front of the Manatee County Historic Courthouse.

Adopted by a 4-3 County Commission vote on July 27, the face-covering resolution states, “An individual in a business establishment must wear a face covering.”

The resolution provides several exceptions, including one for those who can maintain 6 feet or more of social distancing inside a business.

The resolution’s definition of “business establishment” includes places of worship.

Chief Assistant County Attorney Bill Clague told commissioners the resolution was based on the Leon County ordinance that has already withstood a court challenge.

The lawsuit seeks emergency injunctive relief and a declaratory judgment. The complaint claims the county resolution is unconstitutional because it violates the privacy, due process and religious freedom clauses in the Florida Constitution.

“Unless an injunction is issued, plaintiff will suffer irreparable harm because his constitutional rights are being violated. Plaintiff seeks declaratory judgment declaring that Resolution 20-116 is illegal and void,” the complaint says.

‛S YOUR COMFORT ZONE? WHERE

SEE LAWSUIT, PAGE 20

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Freckled Fin addresses COVID-positive employee The popular Holmes Beach establishment expected to reopen this week.

BY JOE HENDRICKS SUN CORRESPONDENT | jhendricks@amisun.com

HOLMES BEACH – The Freckled Fin Irish Pub in Holmes Beach closed temporarily over the weekend after learning an employee tested positive for COVID-19.

As of Sunday, a sign posted on the door said the establishment planned to reopen Tuesday Aug. 4.

The temporary closure was announced on the Freckled Fin Facebook page Saturday afternoon. “Late yesterday, we were informed that one of our employees tested positive for COVID. We immediately closed and will be closed for a few days,� the Facebook announcement said. “Due to HIPAA, we cannot release the name of the employee.

However, we can let you know that the person is doing well. The employee has not been in our building since last weekend and none of our other employees are showing symptoms. The employee had no symptoms last weekend.

While it is impossible to know where a person contracts a virus, we do have reason to believe it was contracted away from the Fin,� the announcement said. “The employee developed a

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While it is impossible to know where a person contracts a virus, we do have reason to believe it was contracted away from the Fin.�

Freckled Fin, Facebook post cough on Wednesday and was tested at an instant result testing facility yesterday. Since the incubation period varies from person to person, it is hard to know if the employee was infected last weekend, however it is definitively possible,� the announcement said. “To be safe we are going to remain closed until our other employees have been tested and cleared. Also out of caution we will clean and disinfect the entire facility and when we reopen we will continue to uphold CDC guidelines as well as state and local laws associated with cleanliness, social distances and wearing of masks, as we have been,� the Facebook announcement said.

The Sandbar restaurant and Pizza Social in Anna Maria, and the Anna Maria Island Beach CafĂŠ in Holmes Beach, have previously announced employees testing positive for COVID-19. Pizza Social and the

JOE HENDRICKS | SUN

According a sign on the door, the Freckled Fin planned to reopen on Tuesday Aug. 4.

Beach CafĂŠ closed temporarily. The Sandbar remained open while addressing its COVID concerns.

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Livin' the dream at North Shore Cafe

BY LOUISE BOLGER

NORTH SHORE CAFÉ

SUN STAFF WRITER

Are you living your dream? A lot of people on Anna Maria are and they all have a story to tell. Nathan Scott Geller his wife Colleen Geller and their children are living their dream right in the heart of Anna Maria.

Starting a new business in February a month before the state of Florida was pretty much locked down may look like a dose of really bad luck, but the Gellers don’t view it that way. When they opened the doors of North Shore Café at the intersection of Pine Avenue and North Shore Drive on President’s Day weekend, they had no idea what was ahead. Nevertheless, their new business caught on quickly and has been building ever since.

Nathan Scott Geller, originally from California, was in corporate retail in Tampa where they lived. Colleen Geller, originally from New York City, was trained as a designer but took time off to raise her family.

Nine years ago, they bought a house in Anna Maria and started spending more time on the island discovering some real business opportunities.

When they finally decided to move to the beach, they bought a duplex, turned one

304 Pine Ave. Anna Maria 941-900-2671 www.northshorecafe.net Wednesday – Monday: 7:30 a.m. – 3 p.m.

Closed Tuesday All major credit cards & Apple Pay SUBMITTED

From left, Nathan Scott, Colleen, Vivian, Jonathan and Brandon Geller. half into a café and started living in the other half. Because of the pandemic, the entire family of five - including two sons, 19 and 15, and their 3-year-old daughter - have been camping out in the duplex named the “Café House” by their young daughter. The entire family works in the café in addition to their young staff, who are more like family than employees.

North Shore’s menu takes you from early breakfast through lunch and into afternoon coffee or a refreshing beer or glass of wine.

Breakfast choices are poached eggs with cheese, bacon or avocado, as well as avocado toast. Lunch sandwiches include a BLT, ham or turkey, Caprese and Buffalo chicken wrap.

One of the more interesting menu items North Shore Café offers are Acai Bowls

with delicious combinations of fruit granola, which they make themselves, coconut flakes, yogurt and more. All kinds of smoothies are also on the menu as well as hand-crafted tea from a small tea shop in Tampa, coffee, espresso, cappuccino, latte and, of course, draft and can beer, wine by the glass and mimosas. Gift cards are available and they will soon make catering available.

North Shore Café has a great mural SEE CAFE, PAGE 26

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OUTDOORS

AUGUST 5, 2020

Engage and defend Reel Time RUSTY CHINNIS This week as I watched the tribute to John Lewis, the American politician and civil rights leader, being eulogized by past presidents of both parties, I was inspired anew by the message of this great American. Lewis encouraged people to speak up and more importantly do something when they see wrongs that need to be righted. While Lewis will be remembered for his bravery in the face of incredible hostility and hatred centered on human rights, I take his message to heart in the threat to our local waters and the habitat that supports it.

The love of coastal habitats has played a defining role in my life.

Memories and friendships forged while fishing have led to my determination to speak to others (like you). We need to marshal our resources to protect these irreplaceable treasures so that future generations might have the same opportunities we’ve had.

I’ve written often about the pressures on our fisheries and more recently about the insults that water quality and habitat destruction pose. Recently I’ve become even more alarmed at what I’m seeing on the waters that surround our homes. I fear that there’s actually a possibility of a collapse of the natural systems that support the fish we seek.

If you live near the water you’ve experienced the massive blooms of lyng-

RUSTY CHINNIS | SUN

A lyngbya bloom pushed by persistent east winds chokes a boat basin in Holmes Beach in June. bya (a dangerous cyanobacteria) that have choked canals and boat basins in our island communities as well as the unprecedented bloom that recently blanketed the shore from Perico Bayou to Palma Sola Bay and beyond.

I’m no scientist but it doesn’t take a degree in biology to recognize that we are surrounded by troubled waters.

Sarasota Bay Watch (SBW) was formed after the devastating harmful (red tide) algae bloom of 2005 that lasted for 13 months. SBW is involving citizens in the region in the health of our Gulf, bays and estuaries. The organization has done an excellent job through initiatives that seek to bring water-filtering shellfish back to healthy populations, remove fishing line from bird rookeries, remove trash and invasive plants from coastal islands and educate future stakeholders.

Other organizations like the Coastal Conservation Association (CCA), long champions of protecting fisheries stocks, have begun partnering with groups like SBW and supporting their efforts to stock clams in Sarasota Bay. They also have a robust program of raising and releasing redfish in an attempt to counter the effects of the even more destructive red tide bloom of 2018.

I have supported both organizations since their founding but recently had an epiphany. While I will continue to support groups that work to restore fish and bivalves, it dawned on me that if we don’t address the root problem, i.e. water quality, all other efforts will ultimately lead to failure. This realization led to my involvement with Suncoast Waterkeeper, an organization that addresses these issues. Through

outreach, education and advocacy, Waterkeeper groups around the world defend communities against anyone who threatens their right to clean water, from polluters to unresponsive government agencies. The local group founded by Sarasota environmental attorney Justin Bloom has been effective in forcing municipalities from St. Petersburg to Sarasota to adhere to the laws set down in the landmark Clean Water Act. The legislation signed into law in 1972 establishes the basic structure for regulating discharges of pollutants into the waters of the United States and regulating quality standards for surface waters. Locally the law has allowed Suncoast Waterkeeper to force municipalities to address and redress the release of wastewater that has raised nutrient levels in local waters to dangerous levels. Recently, some high-profile sewage spills in Manatee County and Longboat Key, exacerbated by antiquated infrastructure and exploding population growth have been front page news. Unfortunately, these releases are just contributions to a much larger problem. While the root of the problem is too many people, that is an issue that we must accept and find a way to ameliorate.

Recently both Sarasota and Manatee County have contributed millions of dollars to build a world class aquarium near I-75. While I understand the educational principle behind such a project, it seems to me that the money would be better spent fixing the infrastructure that is threatening our “natural aquarium.” Hopefully, we SEE REEL TIME, PAGE 19

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Mangrove snapper everywhere CAPTAIN DAVE WHITE

Fishing around Anna Maria Island has been great these past few weeks.

It seemed especially good in the days leading up to the tropical storm on the other coast. Captain Johnny Mattay has been focused inshore on mangrove snapper, snook, redfish and sharks as his primary targets. The snapper are seemingly everywhere.

It’s easy to get a nice dinner even as bycatch when snook fishing.

I’ve been spending most days offshore. American red snapper season ended for charter captains on the first. So we were booked up pretty well. The red grouper and yellowtail snapper were cooperative and we also caught grouper up to about 20 lbs.

Amberjack opened up on the first, so we’ll be targeting those a bit more in the coming weeks. Hopefully this weather stays nice and we can continue to put our clients on good fish!

CAPTAIN RICK GRASSETT

Fly anglers fishing the coastal gulf with me, out

CAPTAIN RICK GRASSETT | SUBMITTED

Justin Hamblett, from Sarasota, fights a tarpon that was caught and released on a fly while fishing with Capt. Rick Grassett. of CB’s Saltwater Outfitters on Siesta Key, had some action with tarpon recently. After an extended period of west wind, we finally switched to an east wind pattern for a few days. Justin Hamblett, from Sarasota, fished a day with me and caught and released a tarpon. After a couple of refusals, a fly change resulted in a hook up. Great job!

Dean and Jana Poetzl,

from Pennsylvania, also fished a day in Gasparilla Sound near Boca Grande with me recently. They had good action catching and releasing numerous trout to 4 lbs. and a red on DOA Deadly Combos and CAL jigs with jerk worms and shad tails.

Fishing deep grass flats of Sarasota Bay is a good choice for action with a variety of species including trout, blues and

REEL TIME: Engage and defend FROM PAGE 18

won’t be using aquariums to show our children and future generations what our natural waters “were” like.

Fortunately, it’s not too late to save these precious resources. Sarasota County, in a settlement with Suncoast Water-

keeper, is transitioning to an advanced wastewater system and committed to supporting clean water. To their credit, Manatee County commissioners recently approved a Conservation Referendum that will appear on the November ballot.

Voting yes on the referendum would

Spanish mackerel. Fishing dock lights before dawn is usually dependable for snook and more and is a great way to beat the heat.

Our natural resources are under constant pressure from red tides fueled by industrial, agricultural and residential runoff, freezes, increasing fishing pressure and habitat loss and degradation. Please limit your kill, don’t kill your limit!

CAPTAIN DAVE WHITE | SUBMITTED

Five-year-old Christian Brueggemann, of Burlington, Ky., hoists a large red grouper he caught with a little help from his dad while fishing with Capt. David White of Anna Maria Charters.

mean approving a property tax increase to create a conservation fund. This will cost the average homeowner about $29 a year, equivalent to 12 McDonalds hamburgers. The “Water Quality, Fish and Wildlife Habitat Preservation and Parks” funding will allow the county to issue bonds of up to $50 million.

Do your part by voting for proposals and leaders both locally and federally that support clean water and clean air.

Check their voting record at the League of Conservation Voters www.lcv.org.

Join with Suncoast Waterkeeper to help with local clean water initiatives at www.suncoast waterkeeper.org. Learn about Sarasota Bay Watch and their shellfish restoration program at www. sarasotabaywatch.org.

Next week, let’s go fishing when Reel Time on the Road goes to Dillon, Montana.

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AUGUST 5, 2020

LAWSUIT: challenge to county mask mandate FROM PAGE 12

LAWSUIT RALLY

During Monday’s rally, Sabatini and Tillis addressed approximately 100 mask-less supporters.

Tillis began with a prayer.

“We pray for those that are going through this suffering with COVID-19, but we also pray that your grace would be upon those of us that are suffering the everincreasing loss of our freedoms,” he said.

Sabatini said, “The mask mandate is illegal because it infringes several parts of the Florida Constitution. We represent a church. Churches should be able to exercise their religion freely. If you want to wear a mask, wear a mask. There’s no controlled study or direct evidence that masks actually work in society.”

Tillis said, “This is not an issue of right or left, Republican or Democrat. This is not even an issue of Trump or Biden. This is an issue of right and wrong.”

He then took exception to churches being defined as businesses.

“They associated the houses of worship somewhere between a Wal-Mart and a Taco Bell and that is unacceptable. We are not a business. And what we stand for is not just for the Christian faith. We stand for all faiths to have their liberty to be able to practice what they believe, apart from interference of the law. This mask resolution effectively interferes with our ability to worship. We also believe

JOE HENDRICKS | SUN

With Pastor Joel Tillis standing to his left, state Rep. Anthony Sabatini announced the lawsuit filing during Monday morning’s Unmasking Liberty Rally. that it’s an end-run around rights that were already given to us by the governor. Early on, the governor said churches are essential and this resolution interferes with our essential work in the community. We cannot do our job as ministry under this resolution,” Tillis said.

ADDITIONAL COMMENTS

After his remarks, Tillis was asked about his church services.

“It hasn’t impacted our church because we don’t accept the resolution. We conduct our church as we normally do. We stress that people use whatever precautions they feel necessary in accordance with the CDC guidelines, but we don’t mandate that they do,” Tillis

said.

Sabatini said he’s been involved with 14 mask-related lawsuits in Florida, including his unsuccessful legal challenge in Leon County.

“In my case, a trial court judge disagreed in Leon County. Another judge disagreed with another party similar to ours in Palm Beach County. But until this reaches the Florida Supreme Court there is no definitive law and we’re going to fight this all the way, legally and politically,” Sabatini said.

“When contacted Monday afternoon, County Attorney Mickey Palmer said, “As with all lawsuits against county government, the plaintiff can expect an aggressive defense from the Office of the County Attorney.”

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JOE HENDRICKS | SUN

Bortell’s Lounge taking shape The extensive renovations at Bortell’s Lounge in Anna Maria continue and a new roof is now being installed.

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REAL ESTATE

AUGUST 5, 2020

When the news is good, be happy

he news hasn’t been that great recently, but the one bright spot is the country’s housing market. Likewise, Manatee County’s housing market is shining almost as bright as the afternoon westerly sun, so let’s enjoy it while we have it.

According to Lawrence Yun, chief economist for the National Associations of Realtors (NAR), “the housing market is hot, red hot.” The NRA reported sales of previouslyowned homes rose 20.7% in June over the prior month, the biggest monthly increase on record going back to 1968 - another first during these harrowing times.

In addition to soaring existing home sales, there are rising new home sales and an increasing amount of homebuilder activity. Much of this is being generated by the record low mortgage rates and a flood of mortgage applications. Young families are finally breaking out, looking for more space, taking another look at the advantages of living in the suburbs, and the wealthy are looking for second homes away from

Castles in the Sand LOUISE BOLGER the chaos of the cities.

Also, according to the National Association of Realtors, the regions with the most activity were the west and the south, with the northeast having the least amount of activity. The most popular price point with the most increased sales nationally was between $250,000 to $500,000. Although Anna Maria Island’s price points are generally higher, Manatee County’s fits right in there also with strong sales numbers for June, as follows: Closed sales of single-family homes in June increased 7.2% from June of last year, but the really interesting number is that Manatee County closed 668 single-family

homes in June 2020 compared to May 2020 at 445 closings. The median sale price was $325,000 this June compared to $315,000 last June, 3.2% more. The average sale price for June was $419,373 compared to June last year of $397,987, a 5.4% increase.

Condo closings are also up 2.5% from June of last year. The June 2020 closings number is 250 compared to May 2020 of 150, again a tremendous increase. The median sale price was up 7.7% to $214,230 from June of last year and the average sale price was up 1% from June of last year to $238,556.

It appears that Manatee County is substantially gaining ground over both last year and last month, certainly the right direction if we can keep it up. However, the problem that plagues us is the availability of properties, which is down for both singlefamily and condos. Single-family month’s supply of inventory for June 2020 was only 2.6 months, down 27.8% from June 2019, which was already at a low point. Condos

are down to a 3.8 months availability rate, down 7.3% from last year. A six-month’s supply of available homes has always been the optimum number to strive for.

Home sales numbers are a lagging statistic since properties generally go into contract a month or two before closing.

Therefore, June’s numbers are probably a reflection of sales in April and May while most states were still locked down. That said, increasing home sales could have an enormous effect on the economy as a whole since the housing market typically accounts for between 15% and 18% of the U.S. economy. Construction of new homes, furnishings and renovations could play a big role in adding jobs and money to the economy.

Will this jump in home sales last? We can only hope the sun continues to shine on our little corner of the world, but for now, just be happy. Stay safe.

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ALCOHOL: Ordinance vetoed by mayor FROM PAGE 3

He cited as an example a construction worker wearing a shirt with cut-out arm holes coming in for a beer after work and possibly getting fined or arrested because his breast is visible. He cited as another example someone who wears their shorts too low.

“That’s anal cleft. I don’t want to arrest him either,” Crane said.

“Can I go to the Sandbar and sit outside and just have my swimming trunks on? If I don’t have a shirt on, is that allowed?” Commissioner Joe Muscatello asked.

“This would not allow a man wearing a bathing suit to join his family sitting at one of the tables where they’re selling alcoholic beverages,” Vose responded.

“Is this geared from keeping topless bars from happening? I don’t think we’re in danger of that,” Commissioner Amy Tripp said.

“The purpose is to prevent topless bars,” City Attorney Becky Vose said.

“I’m all for equal rights, but a female breast is a sexual organ. A male breast is not.”

Commissioners Carol Carter and Mark Short supported the gender-neutral language.

“If I’m sitting at a table in the sand at the Sandbar, I don’t know if I would enjoy sitting beside somebody who didn’t have a shirt on,” Short said.

The gender-neutral provision would have applied city-wide if implemented.

The amended ordinance did not specify the age at which a person would be required to cover their upper body while visiting an establishment that serves alcohol.

When contacted Sunday, Sandbar owner Ed Chiles said his restaurant does not prohibit males from coming off the beach in their bathing suits and entering the outdoor beachfront area that now includes a walk-up service window.

“I was shocked, amused and perplexed when I heard about this. I think the commission needs to take a step back and think about doing something that would not reflect well on the city of Anna Maria and the way of life we’ve had here for generations,” Chiles said.

When contacted Sunday, Planning and Zoning Board member Barbara Zdravecky shared her insight on the board’s recommendation.

“It was about making the ordinance gender-neutral, as well as for safety and hygiene. It probably needs to come back

because the implication of indoor bars versus outdoor beachside bars was not specified. Neither was the age of the patrons,” Zdravecky said.

OTHER CHANGES

Additional changes to the ordinance could still be adopted if and when a revised ordinance is brought back to the commission.

The ordinance amended last week would have required the operator of a restaurant who wants to sell alcohol to obtain a special use permit from the city. A special use permit would not be required for existing establishments already permitted for alcohol sales.

During public comment, former city commissioner Doug Copeland sought clarification regarding bars and package liquor stores.

“If I buy a 4COP license or a 2COP license and I want to have just a bar, can I open a bar?” he asked. “I don’t want to see the city open up the ability to have a late-night bar.”

City Planner Chad Minor said bars, taverns and saloons are already prohibited uses in the zoning ordinance pertaining to the C-1 and ROR zoning districts that include Pine Avenue.

“It’s got to include food sales according to our zoning ordinance,” Minor said.

“Does it have the requirement that 50% of your sales have to be from food?” Vose asked.

“Yes,” Minor replied.

It was noted Bortell’s Lounge, closed for renovation, is allowed to operate without selling food because that use was grandfathered in many years ago.

“How about package stores?” Copeland asked.

“They wouldn’t be prohibited. They would need a special use permit,” Vose said regarding package liquor sales.

“There’s an exception in the Florida Statutes that says the sales of beer for off-premise consumption cannot be subject to zoning. You could sell beer anywhere in the ROR or the commercial zones and we can’t require a special use permit. You don’t need a special use permit for off-premise sales of beer or wine, but for everything else you do have to have your special use permit.”

Vose also noted the provision that prohibited alcohol sales within 2,500 feet of a church was removed from the amended ordinance.

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VACATION

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CAFE: Livin' the dream FROM PAGE 15

painted on the side of the building by Robert Johnson, which the Gellers have turned into T-shirts available for sale. And notice the aprons the staff are wearing designed by Lilliwanda Designs. To top it all off, North Shore CafĂŠ has a large outdoor area with tables on a small lake unofficially known as “Lake Marsha,â€? where on Fridays you can listen to guitar music. And finally, Colleen Geller says they encourage visitors who are cleaning out their

rentals before going home to place their nonperishable items in the shopping cart outside of the cafĂŠ to be donated to the food bank.

You never know where

941.780.8000 CindyQuinnRealtor.com

AUGUST 5, 2020

life is going to lead you, but as long as you’re living the dream, it’s led you to the right place.

Just ask the Gellers and their family at North Shore CafĂŠ.

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PIER: Commission rejects Ugly Grouper pier lease offer Former City Commissioner Doug Copeland participated in much of the pier replacement decision-making that occurred before he left office in December.

“I’m very disappointed,” Copeland said of the offer presented.

Copeland said the offer did not reflect what was proposed in the group’s original RFP response. He noted the RFP plainly stated the pier tenant was responsible for the interior buildouts and he encouraged the commission to reject the offer.

FROM PAGE 1

UGLY GROUPER OFFER

Before Ross presented his offer, Murphy said the commission had four options: • Accept the offer as presented and develop a final lease agreement.

• Reject the offer and continue the pursuit of a modified offer.

• Reject the offer and terminate the lease negotiations.

• Consider the offer, but delay taking any formal action.

Murphy noted the offer Ross was presenting was the result of the fact-finding discussions he and Ross engaged in since mid-May. “I think we could have the bait shop and snack shop open this fall, with the restaurant right after that,” Ross said during his opening remarks, while participating by phone.

He then read aloud the two-page Ugly Grouper offer previously emailed to Murphy and the commissioners.

The Ugly Grouper offer was accompanied by a floor plan and seating chart that proposed 162 total seats – 72 inside the restaurant, 46 in the covered, open-air breezeway and deck area just outside the restaurant building and eight outdoor bar seats along the side of the bait shop.

The floor plan proposed 36 additional seats in the uncovered common area on the deck behind the bait shop. Ross said that area could include a shade feature to be opened or closed depending on weather conditions.

Although not designated as fishing space, the floor plan indicated approximately 7 feet of mostly open space along the rear and side edges of the T-end deck.

Ross proposed a 10-year lease with four potential 10-year extensions. He proposed paying the city $14,000 per month in base rent – $4,000 less than the $18,000 offered in the group’s original response to the city’s request for proposals (RFP).

Based on an estimate from local builder Frank Agnelli, the Ugly Grouper offer proposed it would cost $1.02 million to complete the interior buildouts of the restaurant and bait shop buildings. Ross proposed the city pay $440,650 of that amount to cover the cost of air conditioning and heating equipment, electrical and plumbing outlets, drywall, flooring and walk-in coolers.

“City either pays Ugly Grouper $440,650 cash or credits Ugly Grouper in free rent for buildout of the restaurant – approximately 2.5 years free rent,” the offer sheet said.

Ross proposed initially paying the city $10,000 or $11,000 a month when business operations commenced and applying the remaining $3,000-$4,000 per month toward the city’s buildout costs.

Ross proposed his group pay 25% of the maintenance and cleaning expenses for the pier and the public restrooms.

POST-MEETING COMMENTS

CITY OF ANNA MARIA | SUBMITTED

The floor plan submitted by Ugly Grouper LLC proposed a total of 162 seats. – Ross requested 64 parking spaces. He said the number of seats were more important than the number of parking spaces.

The Ugly Grouper offer proposed the city carry hazard and property insurance for the pier and pier building exteriors that covered the perils of fire, wind, hurricane damage and loss of income by the tenant.

Ross said his group would carry a $1 million general liability policy and an additional liquor liability policy.

COMMISSION RESPONSE

Carter said the offer Ross presented was “quite different than the one we saw earlier.”

She then said, “Why have you increased the seating to this extent? We were familiar with about half that number previously. I am very concerned with this number of seats. The way you’ve laid them out doesn’t allow for a fishing pier and a public pier.

It’s all restaurant,” Carter said.

Ross said the proposed number of seats would create a “win-win” scenario that provided the revenue needed for the restaurant operations and the rent revenue sought by the city. He also said having less than 150 seats would require a more expensive liquor license that costs $350,000.

Murphy said he thought previous pier tenant Mario Schoenfelder was licensed for 70 to 80 seats.

During the meeting, Ross said he received a text message that “confirmed” Schoenfelder operated with a total of 120 seats.

“126 is our ask right now, with 36 public seats,” Ross told the commission.

Ugly Grouper General Manager Thad Treadwell later told The Sun Schoenfelder operated with 96 inside seats and 24 outside seats.

On Sunday, Schoenfelder sent Murphy an email disputing those claims.

“TCPR Inc. operated 72 seats inside, plus five seats at the bar. Total 77 seats inside,” Schoenfelder’s email to Murphy said.

Via email, Schoenfelder told The Sun he had an additional 25 outdoor seats, for a total of 102 seats.

During Thursday’s meeting, Ross said he was open to crunching the numbers to see what could be accomplished with fewer seats. He asked the commission if there was a hard line on the number of seats, but that number was not provided.

Tripp said the city carrying an insurance policy that covered the tenant’s loss of income did not sit well with her. Muscatello suggested it would be expensive and consume a significant portion of the city’s rent revenues.

Short compared the negotiations to buying a car and said, “The dealer tells you X, you come with Y and there’s some back and forth.”

Regarding the offer, Short said, “Are there surprises? Certainly, there are a lot of surprises. I’ve also heard a willingness to continue discussions to try to hone in and deal with some of the things I think we all have concerns about.”

Muscatello supported allowing the negotiations to continue for two more weeks, but he also questioned the need for a pier restaurant. He suggested that space might be better used for educational purposes by partnering with Mote Marine.

PUBLIC INPUT

During public input, Bob Carter said the city already invested millions of dollars in the new pier and the RFP stated the pier tenant would be provided with empty shells that included roughed-in plumbing and electrical.

Carter shared his wife’s concerns about the additional seating. He said the pier is a public space to be shared by visitors, people fishing and restaurant patrons.

“When I looked at this plan, it looks like we built this for a restaurant,” Carter said, noting he’d be happy with a restaurant that only had a beer and wine license. “I urge the city not to accept this as is.”

After the meeting, Murphy commented on the commission’s decision.

“I support the commission’s decision because I think at some point in the future the city will be in a better position to rent that space out. Financially, we’re in good shape.

We reconstructed that pier debt-free. That pier is totally paid for. If we had debt with that pier it would be a completely different picture. I think this presents an opportunity for the city to look at other alternatives,” he said.

“I think it was made clear that we don’t need to have a restaurant. But we do need something, and we need it quickly,” Murphy said regarding a bait shop and snack shop that offers a limited menu. “I’m going to pursue that vigorously.”

On Friday, Treadwell provided a statement in response to the commission’s decision.

“We appreciate the opportunity to work with the commission and Mayor Murphy on this project to reopen the Anna Maria City Pier bait shop and restaurant. We are disappointed we weren’t able to extend negotiations another week to clear up some miscommunications to try to reach an agreeable deal and open this fall. We are excited to see the historic City Pier reopen and will support whoever the new tenant will be,” Treadwell said.

Friday evening, Murphy sent commissioners an email regarding the pursuit of a bait shop/snack shop vendor.

“As a result of our meeting last night, I was given direction to explore the provision of takeout food and beverage service from the bait-shop/snack bar on the City Pier. Accordingly, we are in the process of preparing an RFP to solicit bids for that type of service. This should be finalized and ready for your review in the next seven to 10 days, or less,” Murphy wrote.

“Since our meeting last night, four local restaurateurs have contacted the city and expressed a keen interest in providing takeout food and beverage service from the bait shop facility. Our intent is to solicit bids from any and all interested parties once the RFP is prepared and approved. In the meantime, please send any of your concerns, ideas or points of interest which you would like included in the RFP,” Murphy wrote.

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THE SUN

SPORTS

AUGUST 5, 2020

Sato Real Estate on top and undefeated

BY MONICA SIMPSON SPECIAL TO THE SUN

The Center of Anna Maria saw adult co-ed soccer action last Thursday night. After delays due to Center closure and weather, Sato Real Estate played their third game of the season and captured another win.

Team captain Josh Sato, Hakan Toka and Nate Welch scored the three goals for their team, keeping them undefeated. Goalie Steve Oelfke had ten saves in the match up.

Goal Keeper duties for Vintage Beach were divided between Sean Flynn with a single save, Joey Hutchinson had three saves, and David Greene was credited with nine stops, despite the loss in the first game of the night.

The next two games were high scoring battles. The second game found Moss Builders against Solid Rock Construction. Solid Rock came out on top with a total of nine points in the game.

Clancy Vaughn, Brayan Felipe and Gerardo Urbiola both scored a solo goal, while Josh Furman and Chris Scott each hit the net twice for Solid

OBITUARIES Marie W. Donahue Nov. 8, 1928 - July 25, 2020 Marie W. Donahue, nee Marie A. Wilhem, left the limitations of this world to be restored in heaven on July 25, 2020. This loving wife, devoted mother of six, grandmother to 12 and greatgrandmother to three was taken by the coronavirus.

Her husband, Richard J. Donahue, passed away in 1979. She will be missed by her family and a multitude of friends who enjoyed her spunk, her kindness and her joie de vivre. A Catholic Mass will be said; no memorial gathering is planned at this time due to virus restrictions.

Marie grew up in Pittsburgh, PA and graduated from Duquesne University.

She raised her family in Mt. Lebanon, PA before retiring to Bradenton Beach,

Rock Construction.

Moss Builders’ goalie and captain Ryan Moss had 11-recorded saves in the loss. Danny Anderson got a hat trick with singles by Brent Moss and Aaron Parkin.

In the final game of the night, 13 total goals were scored. Raul Loera made the only goal for Gulfview Windows and Doors.

Dominating the field for Signature Granite, Damir Glavan and Zack Lieb scored 4 and 3 goals, respectively. Scott Bear, Katie Christenson and Cemal Duzgun put a point on the scoreboard.

Christenson’s brother-in-law Kris Yavalar elude the Gulfview defense twice in the Signature Granite win to close out the night.

SUN SCOREBOARD THURSDAY, JULY 30 ADULT CO-ED SOCCER Sato Real Estate Vintage Beach

Moss Builders Solid Rock Construction

MONICA SIMPSON | SUN

(3-0) 3 (1-1-1) 2 (2-1) 5 (1-1) 7

Florida. She loved her beautiful home by the water.

She was passionate about travel, visiting six continents, often with her children. She was a lifelong patron of the arts, exposing her children to this aspect of culture and supporting local theater. She delighted in nature and would watch for dolphins, sea birds and turtle tracks on her morning beach walks. An avid reader, she volunteered at the Tingley Memorial Library and the Anna Maria Historical Society.

Please send memorial donations to Anna Maria Island Turtle Watch, 2213 Avenue B, Bradenton Beach, FL 34217.

Lucile Morris Lucile was born November 19, 1928 in Soperton, Georgia, but moved to Bradenton as a young child and lived in Bradenton or Anna Maria the rest of her life. Although she was born into a poor family, she thrived on caring and providing for others. Her husband of

Adult co-ed soccer action resumed Thursday night at The Center.

Gulfview Windows Signature Granite

(0-3) 1 (1-1) 12

69 years could attest to that, should he be alive today.

In today's troubled times of apparent violence, greed, divorces (and, well, you get the picture) Lucile couldn't understand or fathom the unrest and unhappiness that some possessed. She was just content to be surrounded by loving family and maybe go fishing when the weather was right and the fish were biting.

If she passed a baby on the street or in a store, that baby was going to get her undivided attention. Babies were put on this earth in her opinion to be doted on and loved - it didn't matter if it was a stranger’s baby or not.

She never wanted for anything, but that was easy for her because she didn't want anything except maybe happiness for her children, grandchildren and husband. If they were happy, so was she.

Later in life, Alzheimer's seemed to take hold, but she never really lost sight of what was important - family.

Ross Built Construction (1-2) L Blalock Walters (1-1-1) W by forfeit

She may not have been able to go fishing, but she could recall the fun times and let you know she usually always caught the most fish.

And in the very end she could still blow kisses and smile and wave.

She was asked by her granddaughter if she believed in God. It was a question, since she was not a churchgoer.

Without hesitation and with a big smile, she said, “Of course I do!”

And when finally she passed, she got her final wish she and her daughter had both discussed over the years. “I just want to fall asleep someday and not wake up.” And she again got her wish.

May she now be with her loving husband, Ernie, and her son, Little Ernie, while waiting patiently for her daughter, Brenda Twiss; son-in-law, the “King” Bob Twiss; and grandkids, Jennifer Cart, Little, Little Ernie Morris and Greg Morris; and great-grandsons Brendan Cart and G2 Morris.

AUGUST 5, 2020

FUN IN THE SUN

Across 1 Mirage sights?

10 Hint 15 Puccini's Rodolfo, for one 16 Word with society or system 17 Parties like there's no tomorrow 18 Singular 19 Recipe word 20 Utter 21 Serves, with "out" 22 Considerable number 23 Implore 24 Traditional Mesoamerican fare 27 Name on the 1969 album "Clouds" 28 One may be purposely broken 29 Program access aids 30 Pop-up fare Answers to 07-29-20 Crossword Puzzle.

31 Former NHL forward Tikkanen 32 Nothing more than 33 City ordinance subject 34 Bit of power 35 Green of "Miss Peregrine's Home for Peculiar Children" 36 Contaminate 37 Word in a marriage metaphor 38 __ Aviv 39 Restraining order 40 __ storm 41 Require compliance with 43 Woven line 44 Provoke 45 Oregon's highest mountain 46 Org. with Eagles 49 Squeezable holders 50 Listen

THE SUN

52 Upstanding 53 Regular beach walker's resource 54 Load with jeans, say 55 They don't sting Down 1 Cuba libre ingredient 2 Behaved like 3 Like many Fla. residents 4 Ones often working in small rms.

5 Thelma and Louise, e.g.

6 Turn on 7 "Wuthering Heights" scenery 8 Apart from this 9 Make out 10 Response to a bell 11 __ wine 12 At all 13 Ship's deck sometimes reduced to six letters 14 It's in ice caps and ice sheets 21 Like urban population 22 Giraffe feature 23 Talk a good game 24 Borne out long-term 25 Fictional detective often seen wearing an open aloha shirt 26 Strength of character 27 Cooler 30 Decorative fabric

33 Rights org. since 1909 34 Leaf blower 36 Fencing maneuvers 37 Show time 40 Stiff

42 Eponymous vacuum brand 43 Many a time-share 45 Next in line 46 Tiny tot, in Toledo 47 Commission source

48 Combative deity 50 Part of LLC: Abbr.

51 Pick up

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THE SUN

CLASSIFIED

ANNOUNCEMENTS

COMPUTER SERVICES

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

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

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

EMPLOYMENT

BOATS BOATS ARE SELLING Extremely well, up 300% since Covid. Business the old fashion way, trust. 20 years and hundreds of sold boats.

Dave- 941-228-3489 Islandboatsales.net FOR SALE 2 WILDERNESS Tarpon 120 Kayaks with paddles and wheels. $450 each cash only. One Surf Pecks men’s paddle board & paddle. $150 cash only.

Call 404-849-6971

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

CLEANING SERVICE THC CLEANING : Residential, Commercial & Rentals. Professional and Reliable. Call 941756-4570 PREMIUM CLEANING SERVICES for Premium Clientele! 941-216-8238. Let us knock your socks off!

(Then put them away.)

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

Call us today! 941-778-3986

TWO SCOOPS – Anna Maria Island’s Favorite IceCream... is now hiring full and part-time associates.

Varied shifts available must be able to work nights and weekends. A great place to work and have a little fun…looking for a few friendly people to join our team. Food prep or server experience preferred. Great Pay! Apply today…Two Scoops 101 S. Bay Blvd.

Anna Maria.

TWO SIDES OF NATURE – Anna Maria Island’s Favorite Resort wear Store... is now hiring part-time associates.

Varied shifts available must be able to work nights and weekends. Great pay, great fun. Retail Experience Preferred. Apply today Two Sides of Nature 101 S. Bay Blvd. Unit A-1, Anna Maria. Two Sides of Nature – owned/operated by your friends at Two Scoops SATURDAY HOUSEKEEPING STAFF Needed Per Unit Pay $40 per unit for 1 bedroom/1 bath Call 941779-2804 or apply at 1501 Gulf Drive No. Bradenton Beach, FL 34217 THE AWARD-WINNING ANNA MARIA ISLAND SUN, a weekly newspaper on Florida’s Gulf Coast, (https://amisun. com; www.facebook. com/AnnaMariaIslandSun), is looking for a freelance reporter/ photographer to cover events on this tourismdriven island. The ideal candidate will have reporting and photography experience at a community newspaper and have some experience writing for a news website. Local residents or those with previous local knowledge and willing to relocate here a plus. Resumes and cover letters may be emailed to news@amisun.com or

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

JESSIE’S ISLAND STORE has immediate openings for full and part time cashiers for both day and night shifts. 2 to 3 shifts per week apply in person at 5424 Marina Drive, Holmes Beach or call 941778-6903

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

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

Neil 941-726-3077 RENOVATION SPECALIST ALL carpentry repairs, Wash Family Construction, locally owned and operated CBC 1258250 Call 941-7250073.

KERN CONSTRUCTION NEW Homes & Remodel.

Design/Build. Since 1968.

License # CRC1327296.

Call Jerry Kern 941-7781115 www.kernconstructioninc.com GET’R DONE DRYWALL, INC Specializing in Remodels & Repairs. Island Resident for 18 years. Call Neil Cell 941-962-1194 MASTER CARPENTER. Decks-Docks-FencingStairs & Railing. Free Estimates. Handyman Work. Call Richard 941448-3571 JSAN CORPORATION Renovations Construction & Handyman Services 941-243-0995 Lic# CRC1332505 jsancorporation@gmail. com Flooring, Drywall, Painting, Repairs, Kitchen and Bathrooms, Trim & Doors.

Free Estimates. Credit Cards Accepted.

ISLE TILE EXPERT INSTALLATION of floors, custom showers, backsplash, deck/lanai.

Licensed and insured.

References available.

Call Chris at 941-3028759 please visit website: isletileservices.com

AUGUST 5, 2020

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

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

Call Rafael 941-778-4823 or Veronik 941-526-7941 STRAIGHT SHOT LANDSCAPE. Specializing in Old Florida Seashell driveways and scapes. Also Rock, Mulch, & Soil. Free estimates. Call Shark Mark 941-301-6067

LOST & FOUND LOST ON BEACH Beige Women’s Eye Glasses. $50 REWARD Call John 941705-6068

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

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

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

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

Quality Workmanship.

Interior/Exterior. Also minor repairs & carpentry. Free written detailed estimates. Bill Witaszek 941-307-9315

CUSTOM PAINTING, Residential-Commercial, Interior/Exterior Professional quality work for over 40 years. Free estimates.

Call Larry at 941-400-8754.

References available.

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

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

Residential/commercial. Chemical Service Licensed & Insured. Call Dennis Clark 941-7375657 COLE'S TROPICAL POOL SERVICE Call Cole Bowers for all your pool maintenance needs! Affordable and Dependable!! 941-7131893

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

REAL ESTATE HOMES & CONDOS FOR SALE CANAL FRONT HOMES Holmes Beach – GULF FRONT CONDOS Gulf Place, L’Plage, Vista Grande, SPW, 5400 – DUPLEXES & MORE Island Real Estate ASK Alan Galletto 941232-2216 IMMACULATE WATERFRONT HOME 520 Kumquat Dr. 4BD/5BA 3928sf Coastal Beauty! Prime location on AMI. $2,750,000 Call Charles Buky Coldwell Banker 941-228-6086

LOOKING FOR A highly motivated real estate broker to buy or sell your next home? Darcie Duncan, Broker Duncan Real Estate a lifelong island resident bringing success to her customers for 30 years. Proven track record brings you results! 941-725-1589 509 PINE AVE ,ANNA MARIA. $1,690,000. 2 Cottage homes w/pool. Zoned nightly rentals/Retail/Commercial. Furnished w/rentals in place. Virtual Tour Avaliable. Christine Kourik Re/max 941-538-7414 RUNAWAY BAY CONDOBradenton Beach $335,000 water view 2BR/2BA furnished. Virtual Walk thru Tour Available. Christine Kourik Re/Max 941-5387414 TURN KEY FURNISHED VRBO River District Bradenton. Estately Gardens Vacasa. $769,000 Call Brenda Boyd May. Broker owner Boyd Realty. 941-730-8589 SPECTACULAR GULF VIEWS!!! . A must see to appreciate the renovations and furnishings in this 2BR/2BA Anna Maria Island Club unit.

Karen Fineout. Wagner Realty. $875K. 941-5183682.

RENTALS: ANNUAL ANNUAL RENTALS WANTED! We have well qualified tenants for beach and mainland annual rentals, Full management or Finders fee.

Call today for details. Ask for Paige DUNCAN REAL ESTATE 941-779-0304 www.teamduncan.com 2BR/1BA GROUND LEVEL condo in Bradenton Beach. $1400/mo. 1st, last, and security. $150 application fee which requires HOA approval. 2BR/2BA FURNISHED gulf-front 8 month lease starting May 1, 2020 $2750/mo. Call A Paradise 941-778-4800 ANNUAL RENTAL HOLMES BEACH Great location 3BR/2BA. Washer/Dryer, granite counter tops, Large deck. Available September 1, 2020. No smoking. Background check required. $1900/mo + security. Call 603-969-6840

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AUGUST 5, 2020

BUSINESS & SERVICE DIRECTORY COMPUTER SERVICE

HOME IMPROVEMENT

HOME IMPROVEMENT

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

PAINTING

HOME SERVICES TRANSPORTATION

RENTALS: ANNUAL

ROOMMATE WANTED

ANNUAL RENTAL SPACIOUS 2BR/1BA with patio, storage, walk-in closet, A/C dishwasher, laundry on South Bay Blvd in Anna Maria. $1325/mo.

Call 941-779-9579

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

RENTALS: SEASONAL & VACATION MONTHLY RENTAL 1BR/2BA apartment with pool access. Bottom floor, pool is unheated, no washer/dryer. Steps to beach. No pets. $3800/ mo rent. Cleaning fee plus 12% tax. Available starting January 1, 2021. Call 941778-0426 TIFFANY PLACE Gulf Front Condo for Rent Incredible views from living room and master bedroom. 2BR/2BA Green Real Estate Call 941-778-0455

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

Sarasota $35. Pets welcome. Very dependable.

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

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AUGUST 5, 2020

the Team Duncan Difference!

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

310 Pine Avenue Anna Maria, FL 34216

TeamDuncan.com

941.779.0304