Anna Maria Island Sun February 17, 2021 by Anna Maria Island Sun

- Named Best Florida Newspaper In Its Class -

VOL 21 No. 19

February 17, 2021

Suspect arrested in 2020 hit and run accident In October 2020, bicyclist Lucino Tomaghelli was seriously injured in an alleged hit and run accident. BY JOE HENDRICKS SUN CORRESPONDENT | jhendricks@amisun.com

JOE HENDRICKS | SUN

City officials are trying to determine the best use for the City Pier building on the right.

Mote Marine proposes City Pier Marine Educational Outreach Center The proposed pier building use will be discussed again on Wednesday, Feb. 17. BY JOE HENDRICKS SUN CORRESPONDENT | jhendricks@amisun.com

ANNA MARIA – No decision has been made, but Mote Marine has emerged as the leading candidate to occupy the vacant building on the Anna Maria City Pier. Representatives from the Sarasota-based Mote Marine Laboratory and Aquarium presented their proposal for the City Pier Marine Educational Outreach Center during a special city commission meeting on Wednesday, Feb. 10. The meeting took place inside the vacant city-owned pier building adjacent to the smaller pier building leased to the City Pier Grill & Bait Shop operators. The purpose of the nonvoting meeting was to present and receive public input on the potential uses for the 1,800-square-foot space constructed as part of the pier replacement project completed in 2020. Other potential uses include a full-service restaurant, a retail store, a special events venue, or a combination of those.

MOTE MARINE | SUBMITTED

This Mote Marine rendering illustrates what the proposed educational outreach center would look like inside. Murphy said the intent was to narrow down the possibilities to the best one or two options. He noted the $6.8 million pier is debt-free and has already been paid for using federal, state, county and city funds.

BRADENTON BEACH – Longboat Key resident Robert Irwin Goodman Jr. was recently arrested in connection with an alleged hit and run accident that occurred in 2020. The Oct. 18 accident happened in the 2200 block of Gulf Drive North in Bradenton Beach and resulted in Goodman bicyclist Lucino Tomaghelli being seriously injured. According to the original probable cause affidavit filed by Bradenton Beach police officer Steve Masi, the accident involved a Nissan SUV driven by Goodman. Sarasota County Sheriff’s Office records say Goodman, 55, was arrested in Sarasota County on Jan. 20 and released on $25,000 bond later that day. The arrest was made as a result of a capias request made by the state attorney’s office in response to a capias request made by the Bradenton Beach Police Department after the accident occurred. A capias is a legal writ ordering the arrest of the named person. On Jan. 12, the Manatee County Clerk of the Circuit Court issued the capias on behalf of the State of Florida, which said, “To all and singular sheriffs of the state: You are hereby commanded to arrest Robert Irwin Goodman Jr. and bring him before the judge of this court to answer unto the State of Florida on information filed against him by the state attorney for Manatee County.” The capias notes Goodman is charged with leaving the scene of a crash with serious bodily injury under Florida Statute 316.027 (2)(b). According to the state statute, “The driver of a vehicle involved in a crash occurring on public or private property which results in serious bodily injury to a person shall immediately stop the vehicle at the scene of the crash and shall remain at the scene of the crash until he or she has fulfilled the requirements of s. 316.062. A person who willfully violates this paragraph commits a felony of the second degree.”

SEE MOTE, PAGE 23 SEE HIT AND RUN, PAGE 25

INSIDE

THE WEDDING

NEWS 4 LETTERS 6 OUTDOORS 18-19 CASTLES IN THE SAND 22 REAL ESTATE 22-26 RESTAURANTS 27 SPORTS 28 CLASSIFIEDS 30

MORE COVID-19 vaccine is on the way

Guide has all things matrimonial. 20-21

to Manatee County. 3

Anna Maria Island, Florida

SANTEL prevails in Harry’s Grill

food challenge. 14 The Island’s award-winning weekly newspaper www.amisun.com

www.amisun.com

THE SUN

FRESH AIR because

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

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

FEBRUARY 17, 2021

www.amisun.com

More vaccine options come to Manatee County Not only does the county have another 5,100 vaccines to distribute, but vaccine doses also will be available to seniors at 17 area Publix stores and one Winn-Dixie. BY KRISTIN SWAIN SUN STAFF WRITER | kswain@amisun.com

MANATEE COUNTY – More COVID-19 vaccine is coming for Manatee County seniors age 65 and older along with more options for getting the vaccinations. Manatee County 311 operators began on Feb. 11 making appointments for 5,100 first vaccinations to be given to eligible recipients at Tom Bennett Park, 400 Cypress Creek Blvd. in Bradenton. Those appointments were planned for Feb. 18 and 19. On Feb. 15 and 16, people who received their first dose of the vaccine Jan. 21-22 are planned to receive their second vaccine dose. Anyone receiving a first or second vaccination from Manatee County is required to present a completed copy

of the COVID-19 vaccination consent form, which can be found online at www.mymanatee.org/vaccine, and a Florida state-issued photo identification card or another approved form of identification to prove Florida residency. Manatee County representatives are administering the vaccine to area seniors and eligible frontline healthcare workers through the county’s vaccine standby pool lottery system. For more information, or to register, visit www. vax.mymanatee.org. Signups through the Florida state system are not being used to book appointments in Manatee County. In addition to the vaccines coming into the county-run distribution site, seniors now have the option of receiving their vaccine doses through 17 Manatee County Publix stores or one area Winn-Dixie location. During a Feb. 9 county commission meeting, Director of Public Safety Jacob Saur said that 364 vaccine doses are expected to be sent to each of the 18 store pharmacies every week for the foreseeable future. The doses sent to the store pharmacies are in addition to the ones

sent to the county to be dispersed at the Bennett Park location. As of Feb. 11, 28,601 people had been vaccinated at Bennett Park and the Manatee County Public Safety Center. An additional 1,700 vaccinations were planned for Feb. 12. There were 156,254 seniors remaining in the county’s standby vaccination pool as of Feb. 11. To sign up to receive a COVID-19 vaccine appointment at an area Publix location, visit https://www.publix.com/ covid-vaccine/florida. Vaccine appointments are only available to book online. Appointments cannot be booked in person at a Publix pharmacy location or over the phone. COVID-19 vaccination appointments are now available for booking at one Manatee County Winn-Dixie location, 5802 14th St. W. in Bradenton. To book those appointments, visit https:// www.winndixie.com/pharmacy/covidvaccine/. For information on receiving the vaccine in Manatee County, including required documentation, visit www. mymanatee.org/vaccine.

THE SUN

Privateer’s setting sail with fundraising pub crawl The Anna Maria Island Privateers will host their “Ball & Chain Pub Crawl” on Saturday, Feb. 27. Taking place from noon until 6 p.m., the fundraising pub crawl will launch from RJ Gators on Cortez Road and then sail on to the Paddywagon Irish Pub, Tommy Knockers, the Cortez Clam Factory, Bunny & Pirates and drop anchor at the Seafood Shack in Cortez. With a limit of 45 people and a participation fee of $49.99 per passenger, pub crawlers will travel from pub to pub aboard the Privateers’ 60-foot pirate ship-themed parade vehicle, “Skullywag,” grabbing grub and grog at the various ports of call along the way. “Have more fun than a drunken sailor as you sail down Cortez Road enjoying your favorite rum. Thar be no flogging, keel hauling, or walking the plank, but lots of pillaging and plundering. We start at 12 bells for the six-hour tour,” said Privateers’ Liaison Officer Tim “Hammer” Thompson. All money raised will go towards the Privateers scholarship fund as part of their ongoing “Pirates for Kids & Community” mission. Reserve your passage aboard the “Skullywag” at http://amiprivateers.memberlodge.org/event-4173221 and learn more at www.amiprivateers.org. For more information, call Thompson at 941-7801668.

THE SUN

ISLAND NEWS

IN BRIEF

Commissioners extend mask ordinance to fall Holmes Beach’s city-wide mask ordinance was set to expire in March, but city commissioners have voted unanimously to extend the directive to Sept. 30. The ordinance requires masks to be worn inside public buildings, businesses and during large events held on city field. Commissioner Jim Kihm suggested the new expiration date for the ordinance in the hopes that many more people will be able to receive a COVID-19 vaccine before the end of the mask ordinance. If circumstances change, commissioners can revisit the ordinance at any time to rescind it or extend the expiration date.

Second COVID-19 case at AME A second case of COVID-19 was reported at Anna Maria Elementary School in Holmes Beach on Feb. 5 by the School District of Manatee County, causing 28 people to be quarantined. Another AME student tested positive for COVID-19 last November, causing five people to be quarantined. The county reports 267 cases of COVID-19 this year in Manatee County schools.

Commission passes wheel locking device fees If your vehicle gets the boot in Holmes Beach, you’ll now have to pay a fee to have the wheellocking device removed. Anyone with three or more unpaid parking tickets in the city from Jan. 1, 2020, forward will be on notice that their vehicle will be booted the next time it’s found illegally parked in the city. In addition to paying all unpaid parking tickets, owners will also have to pay a $50 fee to have the boot removed. During a Feb. 9 meeting, commissioners voted unanimously to approve the final reading of the ordinance, making it effective upon adoption. Police Chief Bill Tokajer said during that meeting there currently were five drivers with two outstanding parking tickets in the system and none with three or more unpaid parking tickets.

Volunteers needed for Robinson Preserve planting Help enhance the natural beauty of Robinson Preserve by volunteering to help plant in the salt marsh. The salt marshes help sustain local wildlife, fish, shrimp, crabs and other animals. They also help prevent erosion. Volunteers will be provided with all necessary tools but should be prepared to get wet and muddy with the possibility of wading through up to waist-deep water to reach interior islands. Closed-toe shoes, sun protection and a water bottle are all recommended. Volunteers are limited to 10 people per day and several different workdays are available through March from 8 a.m. to noon. Volunteers must be age 16 or older to participate. Reservations are required online through www.eventbrite.com/e/141294350205. Volunteers should meet at the preserve extension entrance, 1704 99th St. N.W., Bradenton.

Visit our website, www.amisun.com. Scan this code with your smartphone to go there.

FEBRUARY 17, 2021

Beached boat to be removed from causeway

The boat that’s become a fixture on the Palma Sola Causeway beach over the past several days is set for removal by the owner. BY KRISTIN SWAIN SUN STAFF WRITER | kswain@amisun.com

MANATEE COUNTY – The boat that’s been a fixture on the south side of the Palma Sola Causeway beach on Manatee Avenue for several days is scheduled to be gone soon. Manatee County Information Outreach Manager Nicholas Azzara said the owner of the beached vessel, the Viva! Viva!, has been located by the county’s marine resources team and has plans to repair and remove the vessel from the public beach as quickly as possible. Azzara said that in conversations with the boat owner, county representatives determined extenuating circumstances were leading to the boat’s prolonged stay on the sand. Because the vessel isn’t considered abandoned or derelict, there are no plans for Manatee County or Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission officials to remove the boat.

KRISTIN SWAIN | SUN

Caution tape has been placed around the railing of the Viva! Viva! to discourage the public from trying to board the beached vessel. To help reduce the owner’s liability due to the public curiosity the beached vessel has garnered, Azzara said the owner has arranged for caution tape and signage to be placed on the vessel noting that it is private property. The public is asked to not trespass on the beached vessel. If the blue and white boat looks familiar, it’s the same one that has floated at anchor on the north side of the causeway for the past few years. The boat

appeared on the beach after a windstorm the week of Feb. 1 and has been there ever since. While no date has been announced for the boat’s removal, the situation is expected to be remedied by the vessel’s owner as quickly as possible. At this point, Azzara said Florida state boaters’ rights limit the county to working with the boat owner to limit public access to the vessel and to the removal of the boat.

City leaders to form clean water environmental group If you live in Holmes Beach and you have an interest in helping preserve the local environment, city leaders have a new volunteer opportunity just for you. During a Feb. 9 work session, city commissioners gave the go-ahead to city staff and Mayor Judy Titsworth

to begin forming a clean water environmental volunteer group. The group, planned to be made up of citizen volunteers, will help study local waters and make suggestions on how to improve local waterways. One of the first projects proposed for the group

is to determine if the mini reefs built by Ocean Habitats would be beneficial if placed underneath city-owned docks. Applications for the group are not yet available, but for more information, contact the city clerk’s office at 941-708-5800.

www.amisun.com

FEBRUARY 17, 2021

THE SUN

Plans announced for three Island bridges BY KRISTIN SWAIN SUN STAFF WRITER | kswain@amisun.com

BRADENTON BEACH – With plans already announced to replace the Cortez Bridge with a fixed-span bridge in fiscal year 2025-26, representatives from the Florida Department of Transportation are turning their focus to the other two Anna Maria Island bridges. Speaking during a Feb. 8 Island Transportation Planning Organization meeting at Bradenton Beach City Hall, Sarasota/Manatee Metropolitan Planning Organization representative David Hutchinson said the Longboat Key Bridge is undergoing a Project Development and Environment Study (PD&E) to determine its structural deficiencies. Replacing or completing long-term repairs on the aging bridge is a priority for both the MPO and FDOT, Hutchinson said, due to structural issues. The bridge represents one of two ways off of Longboat Key in

the event of an evacuation due to a hurricane or other natural disaster. Hutchinson added that all three of the bridges to Anna Maria Island are being looked at for possible multi-modal transportation options and a transit-only lane that would be used strictly by Manatee County Area Transit buses, not as a third vehicle lane. FDOT representative Jesten Abraham said funding for the Anna Maria Island Bridge, the one connecting Holmes Beach to the mainland down Manatee Avenue, is about six to 10 years away from being replaced with a fixed-span bridge. He said before the bridge could be slated for construction and the year is confirmed, financing for the bridge will have to be located. A presentation from FDOT on the design of the new Cortez Bridge is expected at the March ITPO meeting planned to be held at Holmes Beach City Hall.

KRISTIN SWAIN | SUN

The Longboat Key Bridge is currently undergoing a PD&E study by FDOT to assess structural deficiencies.

THE DREAM TEAM BEHIND THE SCENE Bonnie

Debbie

Serena

Jesslyn

Lorna

Amber

Amy

Rebecca

Kim

Lindsey

941-218-2816

THE SUN

OPINION

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

Like us on our Facebook page at www.facebook.com/AnnaMariaIslandSun

FEBRUARY 17, 2021

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

LETTERS TO THE EDITOR

Quality of life at risk Editor’s note: This letter was originally addressed to Holmes Beach Commissioner Carol Soustek. Thank you for your initial comments regarding the Ugly Grouper site plan. You were concerned about some of the Comprehensive Plan Survey results regarding resident perception of what the city may or may not be doing to maintain the character of the city. Last night's meeting may be an example of why there is that perception. The city is spending much time and money with planner and attorney hours to entertain the idea of allowing one business to have 284 patrons and 92 parking spaces. Then residents become offenders because they "chose to live next to a commercial zone." I do not believe for one second that any resident moving to a residential zone ever thought that they would

live next to ANY single commercial enterprise with 284 patrons and 92 parking spaces... not in Holmes Beach. It is this type of activity that can perceptually erase any good that the city has done. People remember well these intense impacts. I have spent much time and effort over the years during the legislative session communicating with legislators and citizens by phone, email and text in support of home rule thinking this would ultimately work in favor of residents. After last night's meeting, I am now wondering if I should continue. In this case I feel that my "home rule" is using my tax dollars against the residents. There were multiple staff members that used the argument, "You chose to live next to a commercial zone." In addition, the Chief indicated that there had not been any events related to safety issues. I actually know the person who was driving the vehicle that hit a pedestrian in front of Ugly Grouper. So there

have, in fact, been safety issues, and these will have the potential for increasing with the exorbitant increase in numbers. Thank you for any future decisions that you make to maintain the HB character. Please vote in favor of the resident quality of life on this issue. Margie Motzer Holmes Beach

It was a riot The USA cannot accept this type of horrific behavior from elected officials. When the President of the United States incites a riot because he does not like the truth, he needs to be held accountable. Our society DEMANDS that these representatives behave as leaders and act according to the rule of law. TRUTH MUST PREVAIL!!! Kim Coffman Bradenton

www.amisun.com

FEBRUARY 17, 2021

ON THE AGENDA ANNA MARIA

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

City hall is open to the public with limited capacity and safety protocols in place. Please visit www.cityofannamaria.com or contact city hall for more information. Feb. 17, 11 a.m. – City Commission meeting at the City Pier Feb. 22, 2 p.m. – Planning and Zoning board meeting Feb. 25, 6 p.m. – City Commission meeting

Feb. 24, 10 a.m. – Planning and Zoning board and City Commission joint work meeting

HOLMES BEACH

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

BRADENTON BEACH

City hall is open to the public by appointment only. Please visit www.holmesbeachfl.org or contact city hall for more information. Feb. 17, 10 a.m. – Code Compliance special magistrate hearing Feb. 23, 6 p.m. – City Commission meeting with work session to follow March 3, 10 a.m. – Parks and Beautification Committee meeting March 3, 6 p.m. – Planning Commission meeting MARKYOUR CALENDAR

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. Feb. 17, 9:15 a.m. – City Commission emergency special meeting Feb. 18, noon – City Commission meeting Feb. 23, 9:30 a.m. – Community Redevelopment Agency special meeting Feb. 23, 10:15 a.m. – City Commission work meeting Feb. 24, 9:15 a.m. – City Commission emergency special meeting

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

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

WEDNESDAY FEB. 17

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

THURSDAY FEB. 18

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

FRIDAY FEB. 19

Seashell Shore Walk, Coquina Beach, 2650 Gulf Drive S., Bradenton Beach, 9 a.m. Reserve to 941-742-5923 ext. 6036 or elena.burke@mymanatee.org.

SATURDAY FEB. 20

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

SUNDAY FEB. 21

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

THE SUN

Rise and Shine Power Flow Yoga, Robinson Preserve Mosaic Nest, 840 Ninth Ave. N.W., Bradenton 10:30 a.m. to 11:45 a.m., $10 fee payable online or by cash at the door. Bring your own yoga mat. Register at https://parks.mymanatee.org/wbwsc/webtrac.wsc/search. html?primarycode=110006 or call 941-742-5923 ext. 6042 for more information.

TUESDAY FEB. 23

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

WEDNESDAY FEB. 24

Beach market, Coquina Beach, 2650 Gulf Drive S., Bradenton Beach, 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Neal Coastal Cleanup, Neal Preserve, 12301 Manatee Ave., Bradenton, 5 p.m. Reservations required. Reserve to michelle.leahy@ mymanatee.org or 941-742-5923 ext. 6035.

THURSDAY FEB. 25

Wildlife Spotlight: Roseate Spoonbills, Robinson Preserve, 840 Ninth Ave. N.W., Bradenton, 9-11 a.m. Reservations required. Reserve to elena.burke@mymanatee.org or 941-742-5923 ext. 6036. Farmer’s Market, Holmes Beach city field, 5801 Marina Drive, Holmes Beach, 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Thursdays in Paradise Stroll featuring local art, music and food, Bridge Street, Bradenton Beach, 5 to 8 p.m.

FRIDAY FEB. 26

Robinson Preserve sunrise paddle, Robinson Preserve, 1704 99th St. N.W., Bradenton, 6-8 a.m. Participants must have their own kayak or canoe and safety gear. Reservations required. Reserve to www.eventbrite. com/e/137647151335.

SATURDAY FEB. 27

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

www.amisun.com

THE SUN

FEBRUARY 17, 2021

Causeway CME talks horses Members of the Palma Sola Scenic Highway CME are working out what they can do to solve the issues between horse ride operators and residents. BY KRISTIN SWAIN SUN STAFF WRITER | kswain@amisun.com

BRADENTON – Issues persist between Palma Sola Bay area residents and the operators offering horseback riding for purchase along the Palma Sola Causeway Beach on Manatee Avenue. Members of the Palma Sola Scenic Highway Corridor Management Entity are wondering what action, if any, they can take to help remedy the issues. The Palma Sola Scenic Highway stretches down Manatee Avenue West from the 75th Street intersection in Bradenton to the intersection of Manatee Avenue and East Bay Drive in Holmes Beach with plans to extend to Manatee Beach in the west and the Holmes Beach border with Bradenton Beach in the south. The CME is made up of volunteer members from different local agencies including Holmes Beach, Bradenton, the Florida Department of Transporta-

KRISTIN SWAIN | SUN

One of the concerns members of the Palma Sola Scenic Highway CME have concerning horses on the causeway is that trailers parked along the roadway may block visibility for drivers pulling out of parking spaces. tion and Manatee County, along with environmental groups and concerned residents. Operating underneath the Florida Scenic Highway management entity, the CME members can take action to beautify and maintain the area along the causeway but have no law

enforcement jurisdiction. Though no business is allowed to be conducted on an FDOT maintained right of way, a loophole exists where someone can offer a service, such as horseback riding, as long as no money exchanges hands on the causeway. The

ICES ANY HAPPY HOUR PR

causeway beach is operated as a Manatee County park but no special permits or licenses are required to offer a service there. This leaves it an ideal place for business owners to conduct business with little to no overhead or oversight as long as they only accept offsite payments, such as through a website. It’s this that’s caused issues with residents. With the growing popularity of horseback riding trips along the beach and through the water, residents have complained about excrement in the water, the destruction of local seagrasses, damage from tying horses to palm trees and safety for the public. The matter is under consideration by the Bradenton City Council to determine if and how the horseback riding businesses operating on the side of Manatee Avenue can be regulated. However, members of the CME also are looking into their options. Palma Sola Bay resident Tom Skoloda appeared on Feb. 10 before committee members to relay his concerns about the horseback riding. His concerns include elevated levels of bacteria in the water, which he said could be SEE HORSES, PAGE 12

TIME IT RAINS!

. . . G N I N I A R WHEN IT’S

! G N I R U O P WE’RE FT BEER A R D T C E L E $2.50 S SE WINE U O H 0 .5 3 $ LIQUOR T C E L E S 4 $ HALF-OFF E N O T E G E BUY ON PPETIZERS! SELECT A

DON'T LET THE RAIN BRING YOU DOWN, COME VISIT US ON THE PIER!

NEED A RIDE? CALL US FOR OUR FREE BEACH-TO-PIER SHUTTLE SERVICE!

BRIDGE ST. PIER BRADENTON BEACH 941.778.AMOB (2662)

FEBRUARY 17, 2021

www.amisun.com

THE SUN

Kingfish design plans move forward Members of the Palma Sola Scenic Highway Corridor Management Entity received some interesting news – after being stalled for several months, the plans to renovate Kingfish Boat Ramp are moving forward. The plans to revamp the popular boat ramp hit a snag when Manatee County officials couldn’t find funding for the project. Liza Click, with Manatee County Property Management and a technical advisory member of the CME, reported that funding has been found and design work on the boat ramp project would begin again immediately. A report on the progress of the design and next steps is expected at the next CME meeting tentatively scheduled for April 4.

www.amisun.com

THE SUN

Morhaus joins P&Z Board Former Charter Review Committee member Dan Morhaus has been appointed to the Bradenton Beach Planning and Zoning Board. Morhaus will join the other board members at a joint meeting with the city commission at 10 a.m. on Thursday, Feb. 24. The meet-

ing will provide board and commission members the opportunity to collectively review and provide direction to city staff on potential revisions to ensure consistency between zoning and future land use maps.

FEBRUARY 17, 2021

COMMUNITY CHURCH

TRUE

SACRIFICE Possessions • Time • Desires

SUNDAY WORSHIP 8:30 AM or 10:00 AM

In the SANCTUARY and ONLINE Go to www.RoserChurch.com Click WORSHIP-SIGNUP , WATCH LIVE or WATCH LATER Text ROSER to 22828 to receive the weekly eBulletin.

The CHAPEL is open during office hours for prayer & meditation. 941-778-0414 • 512 Pine Ave, Anna Maria • FOLLOW us on Facebook @RoserChurch SERMON SERIES BY REV. NEIL CROWELL

www.amisun.com

FEBRUARY 17, 2021

THE SUN

Old Town Tram requires better promotion and consistency The tram operator and the CRA members remain optimistic that improvements can be made. BY JOE HENDRICKS SUN CORRESPONDENT | jhendricks@amisun.com

BRADENTON BEACH – The Old Town Tram parking shuttle program has reached an early crossroads in terms of advertising revenues, route consistency and other concerns. Launched as an experimental pilot program in mid-November, the Old Town Trams are funded by the Bradenton Beach Community Redevelopment Agency (CRA). Implemented to help address the lack of parking on and around Bridge Street, the program uses two electric trams provided for a monthly fee by the Sarasota-based EasyParking Group, owned by Joshua LaRose. Lower-than-anticipated advertising revenues, inconsistent travel routes, passenger safety and the lack of signage and promotion were among the concerns expressed during the Feb. 3 CRA meeting. During the meeting, LaRose, the CRA members and City Attorney Ricinda Perry spent more than two hours discussing the tram program, with additional public input provided by Bradenton Beach business owners Angela Rodocker and Walter Loos. The discussion stemmed partially from the $7,370 invoice the CRA received from LaRose for his January services. The invoice included a single $900 deduction for advertising fees received from the Anna Maria Oyster Bar, and it noted an additional $575 in ad revenues expected from Rodocker beginning in February. When approving the long-discussed pilot program last year, the CRA members expressed hope that ad revenues

JOE HENDRICKS | SUN

The Old Town Trams operate seven days a week in and around the Bridge Street business district. generated by the trams’ advertising panels would cover the monthly operating costs. CRA members included more than $100,000 in the CRA’s 2020-21 fiscal year budget for the one-year pilot program that will determine whether the parking tram service becomes permanent or is discontinued. The CRA receives $450,000 to $500,000 per year in property tax-related revenues.

ADVERTISING REVENUES

Because the CRA currently receives 100% of the tram-generated advertising revenues, LaRose assumed the CRA or the city would seek out advertisers and he would simply help close the requested advertising contracts. In contrast, the CRA members and Perry assumed those responsibilities fell more squarely upon LaRose. The CRA members said the advertising duties should be LaRose’s responsibility

because his company stands to benefit the most from the long-term success of the tram program. LaRose said he does not have a staff member who can dedicate significant time to the pursuit of advertisers. He said such an employee would result in unbudgeted labor expenses not accounted for in his CRA contract. Perry said she would try to provide LaRose with additional potential advertisers and LaRose agreed to put forth more effort closing out recommended advertising contracts. LaRose said he expects to close out contracts with several business owners he’s already spoken to and he hopes those revenues will be reflected in next month’s invoice. Those interested in advertising on the Old Town Trams can call 941-404-6240.

ROUTE CONSISTENCY

bers again expressed concerns about the tram drivers not following a designated tram route that services the CRA district, which extends from the south side of the Cortez Bridge to the southernmost property lines along Fifth Street South. These concerns include tram drivers straying north of the Cortez Bridge. The program intends to encourage motorists to park in the county-owned parking spaces at Cortez Beach – south of the Bridge Street roundabout, along Gulf Drive between Fourth Street South and 13th Street South – and catch a tram to the Bridge Street business district. Monthly data provided by LaRose indicates January ridership was heavier near the police station, the Bradenton Beach Marina, city hall and the Daiquiri Deck than it was at Cortez Beach.

SIGNS AND PROMOTION

The CRA members authorized up to $700 to be spent on banners and signs they hope will make motorists more aware of the available parking tram program. The CRA hopes to place one banner at the entrance to the city at the west end of the Cortez Bridge, one or two banners along the Cortez Beach parking areas and possibly another banner near the southern entrance to the city used by those arriving from Longboat Key. Proposed sign locations include the parking areas near the police station and the marina, at city hall, along Bridge Street, near the Bridge Street Pier entrance and at Cortez Beach. LaRose said he’s also publishing printed promotional materials that include a tram route map, which he hopes to have distributed at the local businesses.

As they did in January, CRA mem-

SEE TRAM, PAGE 15

Psychic Fair cancelled due to unforeseen curcumstances 5346 Gulf Drive, Holmes Beach (941) 778-5788 hurricanehanks.com Kitchen Hours: Sunday - Thursday 11:30 am to 9:00 pm Friday & Saturday 11:30 am to 10:00 pm

Visit Hanks instead! Hanks souvenir t-shirts now $15

Proudly serving you since 2000

www.amisun.com

THE SUN

FEBRUARY 17, 2021

Holmes Beach commissioners address illuminated signs BY KRISTIN SWAIN SUN STAFF WRITER | kswain@amisun.com

HOLMES BEACH – Talks are continuing among city commissioners about how to meet the needs of hotel/motel owners and condominium associations in the A-1 beachfront district without lighting up the neighboring residences at night. Illuminated signs in the beachfront district along Gulf Drive are causing issues for commissioners. The signs aren’t permitted in the district. But one sign, at the Anna Maria Island Beach Resort, was permitted in error by former city Building Official Jim McGuinness. And while Holmes Beach city leaders acknowledge the error, there’s still the issue of the resort owners installing a $40,000 sign that they’ve so far been unable to use. Other backlit illuminated signs exist along the stretch of Gulf Drive but City Planner Bill Brisson said he’s unsure at this point if those signs were permitted by the city or not. While other signs exist in the area, they typically are lower signs with a single spotlight alerting drivers to the location of a hotel/ motel or condominium complex. However, it’s the larger backlit signs that cause issues with residential neighbors complaining

KRISTIN SWAIN | SUN

Commissioners want to find a way to help the owners of the Anna Maria Island Beach Resort recoup their investment on a lighted sign that was mistakenly approved by a former building official. about the light emitted at night. To help smooth the issue with business owners and avoid potential lawsuits, commissioners discussed requiring all properties with a backlit sign to come into compliance with a smaller sign illuminated by a spotlight, with a sunset clause for use of the backlit sign. Brisson said before something like that can be enacted, he and other city staff need to consult with a lighting professional to determine what kind of illumination

would be permitted from the signs and how to determine intensity and brightness. The regulations on the signs would allow them to be used without disturbing residents in the neighborhood. Commissioners also are considering how to allow the smaller signs for larger properties without allowing them for two- and threeunit vacation rentals. The discussion is planned to continue at a future commission meeting.

HORSES: Causeway CME talks horses FROM PAGE 8

a concern for families swimming off the beach, the amount of trash left on the causeway, destruction of seagrasses and the amount of space the business use takes up on a public beach. Craig Keys, the CME representative from the city of Bradenton, said he hasn’t heard anything about the horses from the city council other than that the city attorney is still looking into the issue. For his part, he said he doesn’t know what the resolution is to address the residents’ concerns without damaging someone’s business. Resident CME member Mike Meehan said the first thing he

and his fellow members should decide is if they want to try to stop horseback riding on the causeway. If they decide to pursue regulation, he suggested working to create a monthly operating fee, he suggested $1,000 per month, for horseback riding operations on the causeway due at the beginning of each month. Meehan said the money could be collected by the city of Bradenton and remitted to Keep Manatee Beautiful to mitigate issues on the causeway such as erosion, trash and damage to the area done by the horseback riding operations. Other suggestions from members included creating an equestrian trail along the beach for the

horses to keep them contained to a specific area, changing the alignment of the parking area to make it safer with better visibility for drivers maneuvering around horse trailers and issuing operating licenses to horseback riding providers. Keys said whatever options the CME members decide on, they have to be pursued through the appropriate channels and will depend on how the Bradenton city council decides on the matter. At press time for The Sun, no discussions on the causeway horses had been scheduled for the Bradenton city council.

www.amisun.com

FEBRUARY 17, 2021

THE SUN

CINDY LANE | SUN

The Cortez Cultural Center will be the site for the UN-festival, Saturday, March 13 from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m.

DAN'S FAN CITY

Cortez ‘UN-festival’ set for March TORNADO

MARINE GRADE S316 STAINLESS STEEL

LARGEST SELECTION OF INDOOR & OUTDOOR FANS ANYWHERE!

BY CINDY LANE

60" SOLARA $

Starting at 449

SUN STAFF WRITER | clane@amisun.com

.99

DC FANS! Reduce Your A/C Bill

Solara Model Now

WiFi Enabled

TOUCH FREE VOICE CONTROL!

Parts & Services Available

DESIGN

YOUR FAN

ASK US HOW

Bradenton

1808 Cortez Road

Open 7 Days A Week

755-3262

Parts, Services & Installation Available

‛S YOUR COMFORT ZONE? WHERE

CORTEZ – The Cortez Cultural Center is hosting the “UN-festival” on Saturday, March 13 from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. at the center, 11655 Cortez Road W., just east of the Florida Maritime Museum. The UN-festival will be held outdoors with social distancing and masks required, according to Kaye Bell, president of the Cultural Center. “We’re happy that we can repeat some of the fun times we’ve had here, offering arts and crafts, trash and treasures and local baked goods, including local recipes collected in Cortez,” Bell said. Festival organizers are still accepting donations for the yard sale and signing up vendors. Table space is free but space is limited, so sign up early. “We’d love to see some unique

and unusual items at the UN-festiAmong the Cortez memorabilia val,” Bell said, adding that volunon display at the Cultural Center teers will pick up items, excluding are picturesque prints of the fishclothes and very heavy items. Old ing village and early fishing scenes broken jewelry is welcome, and priced at $5. Local postcards with will be refashioned into unique unique prints are for sale, four for OUR pieces by Liz, the center’s creativeOR SEE$1. RAINDANCE artist. Direct Water Books Contact about Cortez, including “It’s a great time to clean out 30 Year Warranty the Cortez Cookbook, and history closets, attics and sheds. What is books about the interesting foundone person’s trash is a treasure to ing families will be for sale, as Locally Owned and Operated · Fan Experts For Over 39 Years someone else,” Bell said. well as paperback and hardback 45 Stores Nationwide Handknit and crochet creations novels. DC Fan will be available, along with Volunteers are needed for the Reduce Yo A/C Bill scarves, lap robes, baby items event and for the ongoing opand afghans perfect for those cold eration of the Cultural Center, winters up north. including docents, marketing Proceeds will benefit the Culturrepresentatives, salespeople, and al Center, a nonprofit organization those interested in the expanding that provides Cortez tours, hosts community garden. rotating museum exhibits and Tours of the Center’s newlypreserves artifacts and displays refashioned exhibit space are unique to Cortez, Florida’s bestavailable by reservation. Call Bell preserved active fishing village, at 941-538-0945, or email her at designated on the National Regiscortezbell2@tampabay.rr.com. ter of Historic Places.

BRING IN THIS AD FOR

40% OFF!

UP TO SELECT DISPLAY MODELS PROMO CODE: LP40off SOME RESTRICTIONS APPLY.

ALSO AVAILABLE!

www.amisun.com

THE SUN

FEBRUARY 17, 2021

Santel prevails in Harry’s Grill food challenge The food challenge included a burger, prime rib, chicken wings, shrimp and cake. BY JOE HENDRICKS SUN CORRESPONDENT | jhendricks@amisun.com

ANNA MARIA – Competitive eater Randy Santel has conquered the first-ever Harry’s Grill Food Challenge. The St. Louis native accomplished this feat on Thursday, Feb. 11, when he had one hour to eat more than six pounds of food that included a Smokehouse Bacon Cheeseburger topped with pulled pork, a 16 oz. slice of prime rib with a baked potato and green beans, 25 chicken wings, a plate full of bacon-wrapped shrimp with rice and slaw and a slice of strawberry-topped pineapple upside-down cake. Accompanied by his girlfriend and fellow competitive eater, “Katina Eats Kilos,” from Spokane, Santel is in the midst of a Florida tour that includes 45-50 food challenges for him and several for her as well. While on tour, Santel does a challenge per day, with a day off every two weeks or so. He averages 100-120 food challenges per year and the Harry’s Grill challenge was his 929th successful challenge en route to his career goal of surpassing 1,000 successful challenges. “I’ll get to 1,000 before this year’s over, and I won’t stop at that,” he said, noting he plans to retire from competitive eating in 2023 or 2024 when he becomes a registered dietician. Before the Harry’s challenge began, Santel was asked if he ate breakfast or lunch. “No, I did not. My last meal

was the big barbeque sandwich challenge I did yesterday. I haven’t eaten since,” he said, noting later that he could not finish that monstrous ninepound sandwich. The Harry’s Grill challenge brought Santel to Anna Maria and Anna Maria Island for the first time. “We went on a long walk on the Island today to enjoy the scenery. It’s beautiful,” he said. In addition to competing in her own challenges, Katina assists Santel with photography, videography, merchandise sales and event setup while also interacting with their fans. The food challenges are a source of income for the couple and they’re paid, in part, for the efforts they put forth promoting the establishments they visit. “We’ll be live-streaming the food challenge so there will be a lot of publicity for the restaurant,” Santel said, noting their challenges are also archived on Facebook and YouTube. When asked what his favorite foods are, Santel said, “My favorite is pizza. I love pizza and seafood.”

CHALLENGE MET

Mark and Jan Labriola own and operate Harry’s Grill and Mark emerged from the kitchen with a full tray of food as the food challenge began. Positioned on his knees, rather than sitting in a chair, Santel started with the burger, followed by the prime rib dinner. As he finished each item, he received a round of applause. While eating the chicken wings, Santel jokingly said, “Katina said I’m not getting

JOE HENDRICKS | SUN

Competitive eater Randy Santel ate all this food in less than an hour. When he finished the pineapple upside-down cake, Randy Santel licked the plate for good measure.

anything for Valentine’s Day if I lose two days in a row.” While enjoying the baconwrapped shrimp with 11 minutes to go, Santel said, “If I was just coming here for a normal-sized meal, I think I would get this for sure.” As he approached the 54-minute mark, Santel started on the cake and said, “I do love pineapple upside-down cake and this is the first time I’m having it topped with

strawberries.” After taking his final bite, Santel licked the plate clean while receiving well-earned applause from the appreciative crowd. “I was getting pretty nervous there, but I was able to finish strong and get the win – 57 minutes and 18 seconds,” Santel said. “A big thank you to Mark and Jan and their entire team. That was a delicious meal and I really enjoyed it.”

Afterward, Mark said, “It was an awesome experience to watch somebody actually get through all of our favorites here at Harry’s. It was a great event. It’s great for us and for Anna Maria Island, too, because Randy’s got almost two million followers on YouTube and Facebook. It was a good opportunity for us to showcase some of our favorites.” Jan said she was afraid Santel might not finish the challenge. “I started feeling guilty for giving him too much food. I’m so glad he made it. Now I understand what it takes to do that. It’s unbelievable,” she said.

FEBRUARY 17, 2021

www.amisun.com

THE SUN

TRAM: requires better promotion and consistency FROM PAGE 11

PUBLIC COMMENT

Rodocker has consistently supported the parking tram program, but during the Feb. 3 meeting, she offered a critical analysis of the existing problems and the corrective actions needed. “Josh, you’ve got to understand the purpose of this whole project is simply to move people who come to the Island and can’t find a place to park,” she said, noting there’s still a sense of confusion as to who the tram program is designed for. Regarding route consistency, Rodocker said, “It has to run the same route, whether people are there or not. The first time I wait for that tram and it never comes, I don’t trust it. I’ll never, ever use it again. Make sure the system is run exactly the same, every minute of every hour of every day. It’s going to fail if we don’t.” Rodocker agrees signs and banners will help. She also feels there should be a dedicated website that is specific to the Old Town Trams in Bradenton Beach and clearly states what the service is for. The CRA trams are currently promoted at the www.oldtowntram.com website that also promotes LaRose’s tram operations in Siesta Key and Venice. According to Perry, the trams are supposed to run from 11 a.m. to 10 p.m.

Sunday through Thursday and until 11 p.m. on Friday and Saturday. Rodocker said tram drivers who stray off-course and travel north of Cortez Road should be fired if that continues. She also said she’s seen Old Town Trams carrying more passengers than allowed and has witnessed two tram drivers sitting idle and chatting instead of circling the designated tram route. “If I don’t see that running its route regularly, I’m going to tell the city they’re wasting their money with you,” Rodocker told LaRose. “We need this to be successful, but we have to understand this is to move people who can’t find parking,” she said, noting the free trolley provides free transportation for those not in need of a place to park a vehicle. After noting CRA funds can only be used for projects that benefit and enhance the CRA district, CRA Chair Ralph Cole said, “That’s why we need to pinpoint the exact route.” CRA member Jake Spooner offered to research a tram-mounted GPS tracking system that would allow LaRose and the CRA members to identify where the trams travel. It was also suggested that a phone or web application be developed that allows users to locate the trams in real-time.

EASYPARKING GROUP | SUBMITTED

This route map indicates where the Old Town Trams are supposed to travel. When providing his input, Loos said, “Looking at it from a user experience, and what it is currently, I wouldn’t use the service. Many of the businesses want to see this succeed, but we need to find a way to educate our visitors and make sure the overall experience is visitor-friendly – and that they

know there’s a service that can take them from where they want to go and help them identify proper parking.” LaRose and the CRA members left the meeting expressing hope that the concerns discussed can be addressed as this work in progress continues.

FEBRUARY 17, 2021

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

www.amisun.com

FEBRUARY 17, 2021

THE SUN

OUTDOORS

FEBRUARY 17, 2021

Tournament to benefit Tampa Bay Waterkeeper Reel Time

4 p.m. Lines out! 4:15 p.m. Deadline to email weigh-in photos

SUNDAY, MARCH 14 – TOURNAMENT DAY #2 RUSTY CHINNIS

he Waterman Fly Fishing Tournament is a two-day, redfish-on-fly tournament with the proceeds directly benefiting Tampa Bay Waterkeeper. Proceeds raised during the event will be used to promote the organization's mission. Organizers have assembled an amazing raffle lineup with a number of high-end fly products to award at the awards ceremony and dinner. The tournament is a two-day, fly-fishingonly, catch-and-release redfish tournament with an optional Snook Calcutta with a 50/50 cash payout. The proceeds from entry fees, 50% of the Snook Calcutta and raffle ticket purchases directly benefit Tampa Bay Waterkeeper, a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization. There is no in-person captain's meeting and the weigh-in will be conducted by photo and email. The tournament is limited to 50 teams or 100 anglers total. There will be prizes, an award ceremony, dinner (sponsored by Hells Bay Boatworks) and the raffle. The schedule is as follows.

FRIDAY, MARCH 12

8 p.m. Mandatory virtual captains' meeting via Google Meet. Only one member of each team must attend. Format and rules will be discussed and questions answered. The link to the Google Meet will be provided by email.

SATURDAY, MARCH 13 – TOURNAMENT DAY #1 7 a.m. Lines in!

8 a.m. Lines in! 3 p.m. Lines out! 3:15 p.m. Deadline to email weigh-in photos 6 p.m. Awards ceremony, dinner and raffle at the Bradenton Yacht Club, 4307 13th St. W., Palmetto, Florida. 6:30 p.m. Deadline to check-in at the awards ceremony to be eligible for 1st, 2nd or 3rd place. NOTE: Daylight Savings Time takes effect at 2 a.m. on March 14. The later “lines in” time is intended to exclude dock light fishing. The earlier “lines out” time is intended to accommodate travel time to the awards ceremony. Anglers must check-in by 6:30 p.m. to be eligible for awards.

TWO-ANGLER TEAM - $250 (PER TEAM)

Includes two, long-sleeve microfiber tournament shirts, two Tampa Bay Waterkeeper hats, dinner for two anglers at the awards ceremony, and one raffle ticket for each angler.

SOLO-ANGLER TEAM - $125

Includes one long-sleeve microfiber tournament shirt, one Tampa Bay Waterkeeper hat, dinner for one angler at the awards ceremony, one raffle ticket.

RAFFLE TICKETS

• Additional raffle tickets may be purchased at the awards ceremony by cash or card. • Raffle tickets may only be purchased by tournament anglers.

• Raffle tickets will be $20 each or six tickets for $100. Note: Tournament fees and raffle ticket purchases are direct contributions to Tampa Bay Waterkeeper, a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization. The tournament covers Florida’s west coast from the southern tip of Sanibel Island to the southern edge of the Crystal River Power Plant main channel. Anglers may launch at any ramp but must fish within the stated boundaries. Redfish photos (with measuring tape, tournament placard, team number and daily code word visible) and Calcutta Snook photos (with tournament placard, team number and daily code word visible) must be sent by email to thewaterman@tampawaterkeeper.org within 15 minutes of lines out on each tournament day (4:15 p.m. on Day 1 and 3:15 p.m. on Day 2). The weigh-in email should have a subject line as follows: “Waterman weigh-in – team name and team number – Day 1”. Emails received after 4:15 p.m. on Day 1 will be disqualified. Emails received after 3:15 p.m. on Day 2 will be disqualified. Each team will receive a response email indicating that their weigh-in was

received on time, with the length of each fish weighed in as determined by tournament officials. Please do not send more than two redfish photos and one snook photo per day. Anglers are required to have their weigh-in photos available for inspection at the awards ceremony/dinner, if necessary. After sending the weigh-in email, we ask that each team post their weigh-in photos and individual photos of the angler holding the fish on their social media accounts with hashtags #tampabaywaterkeeper and #thewaterman before the awards banquet. I’m looking forward to participating in this tournament because the money will be used to help protect our fisheries in the Tampa Bay region. I hope I’ll see you there. For more information visit the Tampa Bay Waterkeepers website and be a part of the solution!

www.amisun.com

FEBRUARY 17, 2021

THE SUN

Grouper, yellowtail bite heats up offshore CAPTAIN DAVE WHITE

Well, we were finally blessed with some beautiful weather this past week! Although it was extremely foggy for a couple of mornings, we here at Anna Maria Charters made it happen. Offshore, the yellowtail snapper, mangrove snapper and especially red grouper were very hungry. We were able to get some quality fish for our clients and limits of grouper for all of our trips last week. Don’t forget, red grouper are closed in all depths over 120 feet. The blackfin tuna are starting to show up as well. Unfortunately, the front we’re expecting will probably put a damper on anything offshore for the next few days. Inshore, sheepshead,

redfish, snook, black drum and pompano are our primary targets. Shrimp is our primary bait this time of year. But we use pilchards quite a bit, as well. With the closures of many species, everything that typically eats a pilchard is off-limits, while the shrimp eaters are normally open for harvest. Hopefully, the weather will stabilize after this next windy front and things will get back to normal. It’s been a busier season this year, so if you’re looking to book a trip, get a jump on it! See our ad below. Thanks and tight lines! Shawn Kircher, of Old Bridge, N.J., hoists a chunky red grouper caught with Captain David White, of Anna Maria Charters. CAPTAIN DAVE WHITE | SUBMITTED

High

RED TIDE REPORT

(respiratory irritation, shellfish harvesting closures, fish kills, water discoloration)

Blue-green algae back Very low

(possible respiratory irritation)

Background

Medium

(no effects)

(probable respiratory irritation, shellfish harvesting closures, fish kills)

None

(no red tide present)

Low

(possible respiratory irritation, shellfish harvesting closures, fish kills) Source: Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission

Water quality report Bayfront Park North Bradenton Beach Coquina Beach North Coquina Beach South Manatee Beach North Palma Sola Bay South Source: Florida Department of Heath

Moderate Good Good Good Good Good

Blue-green algae, or filamentous cyanobacteria, is in Anna Maria Sound and the Manatee River, according to this month’s Florida Department of Environmental Protection report. The Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission and Suncoast Waterkeeper took water samples around Perico Island on July 7, finding filamentous cyanobacteria, which can produce harmful toxins and can cause abnormally-colored water or floating “muck mats,” and may create health

risks for humans, pets and livestock, according to Angela Collins, of the University of Florida Institute of Food and Agricultural Sciences Sea Grant Program in Manatee County. To help keep algae growth at bay, Florida law bans the use of phosphorus and nitrogen fertilizers during the rainy season, June 1 through Sept. 30. Report algae blooms to DEP at 855305-3903. Report fish kills to FWC at 800-636-0511.

THE SUN

www.amisun.com

Beachfront, award-winning rooms As long as you’re getting married on the beach, why not stay on the beach? Bungalow Beach Resort, 2000 Gulf Drive N., Bradenton Beach, has won the Top Romance award in the US by tripadvisor.com, and it is located right on the beach – the perfect place to escape between the rehearsal dinner, the ceremony and the reception. With the Gulf of Mexico just steps from your lushly landscaped cedar bungalow, it’s a great place for an extended stay after the bride and groom leave for their honeymoon. If the bride and groom want to continue their stay, Bungalow Beach Resort, which also won the 2013 Excellence Award from tripadvisor.com, is a very popular honeymoon destination. Originally a group of beachfront army barracks, each of the Bungalow Beach Resort units retains the old Florida charm that is Anna Maria Island, with modern conveniences inside. And you will stay in luxury with personal touches like baskets of embroidered towels, flowers and candy. Whether you’re getting married or part of the wedding party, pick awardwinning Bungalow Beach Resort as your home base where you will cherish those moments when you’re not involved with the ceremony. You’ll want to return when there is nothing to distract you from your stay. Call Bungalow Beach Resort at 1-800-779-3601 or log onto www.bungalowbeach.com.

FEBRUARY 17, 2021

www.amisun.com

THE SUN

Veronica Eberhardt and Brandon Bauer were married at the Sandbar restaurant on October 22, 2020. Chuck Caudill provided live music for the ceremony and reception. Shawn Rhoton and Molly Powers, of the Sandbar, coordinated the wedding and reception. Jennifer Toth officiated the ceremony. The cake was by Hometown Desserts. The flowers were by Blooms by the Beach. Veronica and Brandon honeymooned on Anna Maria Island before returning home to Uniontown, Ohio.

DARA CAUDILL | WWW.ISLANDPHOTOGRAPHY.ORG

THE SUN

REAL ESTATE

FEBRUARY 17, 2021

Not a good time to fall in love

tressed-out seems to be the condition we’re all living with. It may not be an actual medical term, but if you have it, you know it. One of the fastest ways to catch “stressedout” is to try and buy a house right now, and one of the biggest mistakes you can make when shopping for a home is to fall in love with it. Valentine’s Day just passed, and I hope you had a lovely day with the one you love, remembering the warm glow and comfortable feelings you had when you first fell in love. Falling in love with a house may give you the same emotional rush as the flesh and blood love, however, you would be making a mistake to give in to it. Now more than ever, with the shortage of properties available for sale, getting emotionally involved with a house will cloud your thinking and your ability to make good decisions. It’s exhausting trying to buy a home

Castles in the Sand LOUISE BOLGER in this market. Whether you’re living in Florida or Montana, inventory is scarce all over the country. Because of the extraordinarily low mortgage interest rates, more buyers than ever are qualified to purchase a home, whether it’s their primary home or a second home, making the shortage of inventory even worse. Know what you want and know what you can afford to pay for it. If you’re planning on financing, get preapproved, meaning a full-blown credit application. Lenders will want you to produce bank statements, tax returns, income verifications, credit score

and permission to run a credit check, stopping just short of your blood type. The final approval is pending on an appraisal of the property you finally choose, but your ability to get financing will be secure. In addition, there will be an expiration date on this approval, so work fast. This process is substantially different from a pre-qualification which merely gives you a guideline on what you can afford based on the information you give the lender. In the competitive market we’re in where a high percentage of buyers are all cash, a pre-qualification doesn’t mean much to a seller. Make a list of your “must-haves” and then tear it up. In the best of real estate markets, there are no perfect homes and you always have to compromise. In this market, compromise is on steroids; I can practically guarantee you what you buy will not look

like the image you had in your mind. If you are lucky enough to find something you love, please don’t “fall in love.” Full-price offers and offers above full price are common so try not to let love get in the way of good financial choices. It’s easy to get in a bidding war - know your limit and be prepared to accept it. Just like when your high school love broke up with you, you may think “I can’t go on,” but you will. Sometimes you just have to walk away before your emotions take over. There will be more Valentine’s Days in your future and someday there will be more homes available to make up for the one that got away. Keep the stress level down by keeping the expectation level also down. Just like falling in love, the journey is the fun part. Stay safe.

www.amisun.com

FEBRUARY 17, 2021

MOTE: City pier proposal FROM PAGE 1

MOTE MARINE PROPOSAL

The Mote Marine presenters included President and CEO Dr. Michael Crosby, Assistant Vice President of the Aquarium Evan Barniskas and Assistant Vice President of Education Aly Busse. Speaking first, Crosby commended the city for doing an incredible job on the new pier. He noted the presence of a City Pier in that location for more than 100 years has created a strong link with the Anna Maria community and the surrounding waters. Crosby described Mote Marine as a 66-year-old homegrown institution that’s known worldwide for its innovative and cutting-edge research, but less known for its innovative education, community outreach and community engagement activities. “These waters are the business of Mote Marine Laboratory. What better venue could we possibly have for translating and transferring the science that we do at Mote to the public-at-large? This is an incredible opportunity to partner with this community to do some things we hope are going to add to the overall ocean literacy amongst the public but will also be a great attraction for visitors, as well as a place of pride for the local community,” Crosby said.

“In a nutshell, this is what we are looking for - a partnership to create a marine education and outreach center right here that I think would pair so nicely with the wonderful business that smells so good right next door,” he added. Barniskas spoke about the aquariumstyle exhibits and his presentation included a rendering of a proposed facility that includes live exhibits that allow visitors to interact with live marine life. The live exhibits would also focus on local sportfishing: “They can come in here and see the fish they were hoping to catch: Grunts, snappers, groupers and all that type of stuff. We’re also going to have a grass flats exhibit that’s going to show the smaller fish, the smaller invertebrates, crabs and that type of stuff. We’ll also have a schooling fish exhibit,” Barniskas said. He also mentioned a sport fish identification exhibit, a “sounds of the sea” exhibit, microscopes, and interpretive graphics that explain the local sea life and their importance to the surrounding environment. “When the visitors come to this center and touch an animal they’ve never touched before, they’ll take that memory with them the rest of their lives,” Barniskas said. Busse said the education programs would take place inside and outside of the facility.

“At Mote, we pride ourselves on our ‘K to Gray’ education programming,” she said about programs geared for toddlers through senior citizens. She mentioned guided nature tours, an exploration backpack program, fishing workshops and science projects. She also mentioned excursions on the water that allow people to interact with marine life in the natural environment. Crosby said Mote Marine’s research vessels would visit the pier.

PROPOSED BUDGET

The Mote Marine presentation included a proposed budget for start-up and operating costs, and Crosby said he envisions the city taking the lead on securing the initial funds needed to create the facility. The proposed budget includes $555,000 for the initial design and installation, with $500,000 to be raised by the city and $55,000 to be raised by Mote Marine and its philanthropic partners. The budget proposes $444,000 in annual operating costs, including $303,212 for Mote Marine staff members. This city would be asked to pay an estimated $9,500 in annual utility bills. The budget proposes Mote generating $66,000 in annual retail sales, $20,000 from education programs and $10,000 from donations, with Mote Marine contributing approximately $337,000 annually. The proposal does not include monthly rent payments paid to the city.

THE SUN

“Once the funds are in fact secured, we’re pretty confident we can get this done in less than half a year,” Crosby said.

OTHER OPTIONS AND REACTIONS

Murphy also addressed the other potential uses. He said a special events venue could be used for meetings, celebrations, expositions, art shows and more, but he didn’t envision it being used for weddings. He said the vacant space could accommodate a 61-seat full-service restaurant, but the limited seating allowance would require a more expensive liquor license. Residents Shelia Fusé and Bob Carter expressed support for the Mote proposals, as did City Pier Grill operators Brian Seymour and Nick Graham, and Jim McDaniel, director of development for The Center of Anna Maria Island. Commission Chair Carol Carter questioned the need for another full-service restaurant when others already exist near the pier. She also expressed concerns about “mega-events” being held in the special events venue after the COVID pandemic subsides. The Mote Marine proposal garnered preliminary support from the five commissioners and commissioners Joe Muscatello and Jon Crane said they would support it if asked to vote that day, which they were not. These ongoing discussions will continue during another special meeting to be held inside the pier building at 11 a.m. on Wednesday, Feb. 17.

THE SUN

www.amisun.com

FEBRUARY 21, 2021

Coryea termination delayed The county attorney’s office is negotiating with former Sarasota County Commissioner Charles Hines to serve as acting county administrator. BY JOE HENDRICKS SUN CORRESPONDENT | jhendricks@amisun.com

MANATEE COUNTY – County Administrator Cheri Coryea’s anticipated termination has been delayed until Tuesday, Feb. 23. The termination discussion and decision sought by Manatee County Commissioners George Kruse, Kevin Van Ostenbridge, Vanessa Baugh and James Satcher was previously scheduled for Wednesday, Feb. 17. That meeting has now been canceled. At the suggestion of County Attorney Bill Clague, the commission, on Tuesday, Feb. 9, voted 6-1 to extend the termination timeline and directed Clague to negotiate settlement terms with Coryea’s attorney. Clague said Coryea’s attorney requested the extension and Satcher cast the only opposition vote to this action. A final vote by the commission is required for her termination. The commission rejected Van Ostenbridge’s suggestion to put Coryea on administrative leave effective immediately. At Clague’s suggestion, the commission then voted 7-0 in favor of authorizing him to enter into contract negotiations with attorney and former Sarasota County Commissioner Charles Hines to serve as acting county administrator while a search for Coryea’s permanent replacement is conducted. The commission passed on Van Ostenbridge’s suggestion to consider school board member Dr. Scott Hopes or Bridgely Key Options Chief Oper-

JOE HENDRICKS | SUN

SUBMITTED

County’s Administrator Cheri Coryea’s termination is expected on Feb. 23. Former Sarasota County Commissioner Charles Hines is Coryea’s likely temporary successor. ating Officer Dennis Cooley for the acting county administrator’s position. Deputy County Administrator John Osborne recently announced that he would be leaving his county position on Feb. 16. The commissioners expressed preliminary support for the potential hiring of former Manatee County Deputy Director of Public Works Sia Mollanazar to return to the county and serve as the deputy county administrator. According to Commissioner Carol Whitmore, Mollanazar recently retired and is scheduled to enter the Deferred Retirement Option (DROP) Program that may or may not impact his ability to return to the county at this time. According to Clague, hiring Mollanazar or anyone else to serve in the deputy county administrator’s role first requires a nomination from the county administrator or acting county administrator before being approved by the county commission. Clague said this is one of the reasons the county needs an acting county administrator in place when Coryea’s tenure comes to an end. Clague said the acting or permanent county administrator is also the only person who can present the annual county budget.

FEBRUARY 17, 2021

www.amisun.com

THE SUN

BEACH BEAT HOLMES BEACH

2/3, 2:30 a.m., camping, code violation, Island Spice, 3608 East Bay Drive. The officer on patrol found a homeless male behind the dumpster behind the store. He was driven to the Salvation Army. 2/7, 1 a.m., possession of drugs, violation of a community control order, loitering, Westbay Cove Condos 600 Manatee Ave. The officer noticed a male riding a bike though the condo parking area. The suspect spotted the officer and took evasive action. The officer called for backup and two other patrolmen responded. One of the respondents spotted the suspect on the Anna Maria Island Bridge. The

suspect was caught and they searched his bike and car and found drugs and paraphernalia. He was arrested. 2/7, 6:59 p.m., trespass warning, Manatee Beach, 4000 Gulf Drive. The officer was dispatched to the trolley stop for a male who was sleeping on the trolley. After some effort, he got the homeless male to awaken. It was the same person who was removed from behind a dumpster on Feb. 3. After some questioning, the officer released him with a trespass warning. 2/19, 1:40 a.m., driving with a suspended license with knowledge, possession of drug paraphernalia, 3400 East Bay Drive. The officer stopped the driver for running a red light. He could not find a license and the officer smelled marijuana. He found a marijuana grinder, a pipe and marijuana in the car. He arrested the driver.

HIT AND RUN: Suspect arrested FROM PAGE 1

ACCIDENT DETAILS

The Oct. 18 probable cause affidavit provides details of the accident and the investigation that followed. The affidavit notes Tomaghelli was lawfully operating his bicycle within the designated bike lane while traveling south on Gulf Drive when Goodman went off the road and drove into the bike lane striking Tomaghelli from behind and dragging him an estimated 50-plus feet before coming to a stop. The affidavit notes numerous witnesses came to the aid of Tomaghelli while Goodman’s vehicle remained stuck on the roadside embankment. When Goodman freed his vehicle, he sped off to the south, but witnesses provided Masi with his license plate number. “Some witnesses stated that the driver was giving off a strong odor of alcohol as they tried to get him from the vehicle before causing more harm to others,” the affidavit says.

The affidavit notes officer Eric Hill arrived on the scene and assisted Masi by going to Goodman’s listed address at the north end of Longboat Key, where Hill made contact with Goodman’s parents, who declined to divulge the whereabouts of their son. Masi later drove to Goodman’s listed address and was met at the door by Goodman’s father, who then contacted his son by phone. Masi advised Goodman to meet him at the Bradenton Beach Police Department for questioning. Goodman said he would not meet with Masi until he had a lawyer present. According to the affidavit, Goodman said, “I didn’t really know what or who I hit. I didn’t see anything but I know I was wrong and understand that. I just had people at my vehicle screaming and trying to hit me, so I drove off.” When contacted the following day by Goodman’s attorney, Masi advised him that a capias request was being sent to the state attorney’s office.

THE SUN

www.amisun.com

FEBRUARY 17, 2021

Ugly Grouper owners one step closer to expansion BY KRISTIN SWAIN SUN STAFF WRITER | kswain@amisun.com

HOLMES BEACH – City leaders and the owners of the Ugly Grouper are one step closer to an agreement on the restaurant’s expansion. Speaking on behalf of the owners during a Feb. 9 commissioner work session, attorney Scott Rudacille said the owners agree to the city’s terms to remove two parking spots in a location previously occupied by a sign and mailbox and remove a second dumpster on the property,

returning the remaining dumpster to its previous location on the side of the building. City Assistant Planner Austen Doles said the city agreed, with commission approval, to allow fourseater golf cart parking spaces to count for two restaurant seats each with six-seater golf cart parking spaces to count for three restaurant seats each. Rudacille said his clients still don’t agree to allow the four-seater golf cart parking spaces to account for only two seats but at the time that’s the only disagree-

ment his clients have with the staff recommendations. Regarding the potential issue of noise from the speakers and mounted televisions, Police Chief Bill Tokajer said he had no issues after checking the sound levels from the installed speakers and television sets. Commissioners agreed to allow the installed speakers to stay as long as the owners don’t expand the sound equipment beyond what’s already on the property. Commissioner Carol Soustek said she’d also like staff to look into

making additional parking lot lighting a requirement for the approval of the new site plan. If the new site plan is approved at two public hearings, it would allow the restaurant to expand seating to 276 seats after 5 p.m. with 249 before 5 p.m., with some located indoors and others outdoors at the existing tiki location. Currently, the Ugly Grouper has 173 seats before 5 p.m. with a maximum of 176 outdoor seats after 5 p.m. and a total of 239 seats in the evening.

FEBRUARY 17, 2021

www.amisun.com

THE SUN

Help save Scott’s Deli Times are tough for a lot of local businesses, including Holmes Beach-based Scott’s Deli. With the business closing at its current location on March 1 and being required to relocate during the winter tourist season, the restaurant’s owners have started a GoFundMe page to help keep their staff employed while the business relocates, as well as to help ease some of the financial burdens of constructing a new location elsewhere on the Island. The fundraiser has a goal of $20,000. As of Feb. 13, $2,305 had been donated toward that goal. To view the fundraiser and donate, visit https://gofund.me/a51b41ce. Scott’s Deli remains open through Feb. 28 at 5350 Gulf Drive in Holmes Beach.

Report issues to city leaders online With Holmes Beach City Hall open to the public by appointment only due to COVID-19 precautions, residents and business owners have a new way of reporting issues to the public works department, requesting records from the city clerk’s office or Holmes Beach Police Department or obtaining information about building permits. Rather than visit city hall, anyone can report an issue or request documents on the city’s website at www.holmesbeachfl.org. To complete your request, visit the city’s website and select the correct department for your issue. There are links on each department’s page for making requests or reporting issues.

AMISUN.COM

THE SUN

SPORTS

FEBRUARY 17, 2021

Moss Builders closes out the week with a win BY MONICA SIMPSON

Key Royale golf championship

SPECIAL TO THE SUN

Another week of youth and adult sports at The Center had two teams grabbing their first win of the season. To start the week off on a positive note, Raymond Gardner inspired his team to their first victory. With each team going into the game looking for their first win of the season, team Ray’s Ramblings fought for the three-point win against Shady Lady in the 8- to 10-year-old flag football league last Tuesday night. The next night in adult co-ed soccer action, the Jiffy Lube squad outscored The Gitt Team by four goals, putting up their first win in the spring season, with the final score 6-2. The week’s ending game was on the adult flag football gridiron. Moss Builders took the solid and early lead in the game, not giving the Sandbar team a chance. The first half ended with the mercy rule instituted. With a 28-point lead, team Moss Builders would start the last minutes of play unable to rush the passer until there was less than a 21-point deficit for Sandbar. In the second half of action, Sandbar’s Karri Stephens made two touchdown catches. Stephens, a veteran of the league, is one of the best, but unassuming, receivers in the league. Teammate Ben Sato lit up the field with three scoring receptions and eight total catches in the night. Sato’s solid training routine shows each week on the field, regardless of the sport. Matteo Ferris, growing into his own in the adult league, threw for four touchdowns and scored a point after a touchdown. Ferris is also credited for sacking Moss Builders’ QB, Ryan Moss. The ever-present maturing Island youth is making an impact in the community center’s adult leagues. Sandbar’s Jackson Hayes and Tyler Brewer both learned their flag football skills at The Center starting on the small fields in kindergarten. Years later, Hayes made the statistics book with one TD catch. Brewer caught an extra point throw for two nabs in the game. Along with Brewer and Hayes, Moss Builders’ Cole Carter played Island youth sports when he moved to Anna Maria Island. Now in the adult league, he is making his own impacts with three catches and one interception in Thursday night’s game. Three of Moss’ throws were caught by the reliable hands of Jordan Demers. Demers made it into the end

The annual Men's Club Championship was played Feb. 3 and 10. Playing 36 holes of stroke play, Eric Lawson shot even par (128) to win the event over Gary Risner's score of 139, 11 over par and last year's winner. Third place was captured by Brett Lance with a score of 144.

MONDAY, FEBRUARY 8 MODIFIED STAPLEFORD

MONICA SIMPSON | SUBMITTED

Team captains Ryan Moss and McKenna Ainger meet up Thursday night at The Center. Ainger, for Sandbar, applies the pressure to QB Moss as he looks downfield for a Moss Builder receiver. zone four times for three TDs and one extra point. Demers’ ability to read the plays as a defender put him in the right position for two interceptions, rattling the young Sandbar quarterback. Greg Moss contributed both on offense and defense with three catches and two sacks. Top player and draft pick Dina DeJesus was held to one catch and an extra point. Contributing to the Moss Builders win, Zach Routh grabbed three catches, including two for 12 points in the team’s second win of the season to end another fun week of sports action on the Island.

SUN SCOREBOARD TUESDAY, FEBRUARY 9 YOUTH CO-ED FLAG FOOTBALL WEEK #4 EIGHT- TO 10-YEAR-OLD LEAGUE

Ugly Grouper

(1-2-0) bye

14- TO 17-YEAR-OLD LEAGUE Ugly Grouper LaPensee Plumbing

win by forfeit (1-3-0)

Ugly Grouper Grooms Auto

WEDNESDAY, FEBRUARY 10 ADULT CO-ED SOCCER WEEK #4

(3-2-0) 34 (3-2-0) 39

The Gitt Team Jiffy Lube

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

Burton Brick and Tile Slim’s Place

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

Sato Real Estate Allied

(2-0-2) 2 (2-1-1) 2 (2-2-0) 8 (2-2-0) 6

Rays Ramblings Shady Lady

(1-3-0) 15 (0-3-0) 12

Servis First Bank Blalock Walters

Tidy MD Coastline Contractors

(2-1-0) 33 (2-2-0) 20

THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 11 ADULT CO-ED FLAG FOOTBALL WEEK #4

Beach Bums Cloud

(2-1-0) 29 (2-2-0) 39

11- TO 13-YEAR-OLD LEAGUE Poppos HSH

(3-0-1) 26 (0-3-0) 13

Detweilers Gulf Drive Café The Gitt Team Root Logix

(2-0-1) 26 (1-3-0) 8 (0-3-0) 12 (4-0-0) 19

Solid Rock Construction Salty Printing

(3-1) 32 (0-4) 13

Beach Bums Mi-Box

(4-0) 51 (0-4) 20

Ugly Grouper Slim’s Place

(4-0) 26 (2-2) 7

Sandbar Moss Builders

(1-3) 26 (2-2) 33

1st Place Team with a score of +2 ....Ken Butler, Al Carr, Jim Hitchens and Harvey Shovers 1st Place Individual - Tom Perkins with a score of +6 2nd Place Individual - Bill DeMenna, Earl Ritchie, Kurt Snouffer and Ron Vandeman tied with a score of +5

TUESDAY, FEBRUARY 9 LOW NET SCORE

Flight A 1st - Roxanne Koche 26 2nd - Connie Livanos and Jenny Huibers 31 3rd - Marcia Friesen 32 Flight B 1st - Marti Clark 29 2nd - Beth Lindeman 31 3rd - Sue Powers and Margrit Layh 32 Flight C 1st - Lisa Edmonds 27 2nd - Terry Westby 30 3rd - Judy Mencheck 32 Birdie on Hole #6 - Connie Livanos Chip Ins: Connie Livanos, Pam Alvord and Ann Hitchin

THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 11 SHAMBLE

1st Place - (tie) with a score of 1 under par, Eric and Monica Lawson, John Purcell, Jim Menzies and the team of John Kolojeski, Hoyt Miller, Terry Schaefer and Al Waal 2nd Place - with a score of even par - Marcia and Tim Friesen, Mike Gillie and Debi Richardson

FEBRUARY 17, 2021

FUN IN THE SUN

Across 1 Irrigation need 5 '90s trade pact 10 "Go no further!" 14 Heart 15 "... __ player, / That struts and frets his hour upon the stage": Macbeth 16 Lake near Carson City 17 Gratitude for a wellplayed role? 20 Papal messenger 21 On the other side of: Abbr. 22 Enzyme suffix 23 Unscrupulous 25 Youthful maiden of myth 27 Crackin', peelin' and fadin'? 31 Clean, as greens 32 Newton honorific 33 LGBT History Mo. 34 '60s campus gp. Answers to 02-10-21 Crossword Puzzle.

35 Start growing 37 Hem partner 40 Asian language 42 Hammer site 43 Kofi Annan's birthplace 45 Couples therapist? 49 Like Macbeth in "Macbeth" 50 Jumpy 51 Jeff Lynne rock gp. 52 HP product 53 Hit 55 Extreme example of layering for cold weather? 60 Discrete things 61 Poetry Muse 62 Fruit with fuzz 63 First name in Latin bands 64 "Holy cow!" 65 Venerable college that owns a river island Down 1 Angel dust, briefly

2 Investment option, briefly 3 Misappropriates 4 Nonresident doctors 5 Controversial combat material 6 Cal. entry 7 Golf alert 8 Golf club part 9 Understood by few 10 Seuss title top 11 "Aloha __": Hawaiian "Good evening" that sounds like a repeated fish 12 Ease 13 Principle 16 Lighting area? 18 Patterned mineral 19 Lidocaine brand endorsed by Shaq 23 Car loan nos. 24 Hotel employee 26 Mil. rank 28 Comcast, e.g.: Abbr. 29 Warning sound 30 Wide-ranging 35 "You're not the only one!" 36 Ocean State sch. 37 Like some homemade sweaters 38 Rare blood type, briefly 39 Word with hard or soft 40 Lucy of "Elementary" 41 Bygone HBO series about a sports agent 43 Generate 44 Southern cornmeal

fare 45 "Ecce homo" speaker 46 Makes up (for) 47 Scottish archipelago 48 Ancient statuary frag-

THE SUN

ments 49 Unenthusiastic 53 Cinch 54 Parisian bean? 56 "That's quite enough"

57 "Do it, __ will!" 58 What a V-sign probably means in a restaurant 59 Envy, say

THE SUN

CLASSIFIED

ANNOUNCEMENTS

EMPLOYMENT

BEACH YOGA ON Wednesdays, Saturdays & Sundays at 8:30am at the end of Pine Ave by the Sandbar Restaurant by donation. www.thriveyogafit. com

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.

ANNOUNCEMENT: Who wants to play bridge outside on the patio, or in the park, social distanced and face-masked, Call Kathleen at 314-324-5921 THE BEST VOLUNTEER position on the island. The AMI Historical Museum needs docents and bread makers. Call Kathy Primeau at 989-560-6381. ROSER FOOD BANK needs donations of cash and non-perishable food, PAPER & PERSONAL HYGIENE PRODUCTS. Donations boxes are located at the Church, Moose Club, and Walgreen’s.

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

CLEANING SERVICE

Call us today! 941-778-3986

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

GARAGE, MOVING, RUMMAGE & YARD SALES

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

ROSER THRIFT SHOP YARD SALE Saturday, Feb.20. Lots of stuff, including clothing & jewelry. Please wear a mask and keep distance, follow rules. 511 Pine Ave., Anna Maria across from Roser Chapel

COMMERCIAL SALES, RENT & LEASE

HOME IMPROVEMENTS

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

TILE! TILE! TILE! All variations of tile supplied and installed. Quality workmanship. Prompt, reliable, many Island references. Free estimates. Neil 941-726-3077 RENOVATION SPECALIST ALL carpentry repairs, Wash Family Construction, locally owned and operated CBC 1258250 Call 941-7250073. KERN CONSTRUCTION NEW Homes & Remodel. Design/Build. Since 1968. License # CBC 1261150. Call Mike Kern 941-7781115

GET’R DONE DRYWALL, INC Specializing in Remodels & Repairs. Island Resident for 18 years. Call Neil Cell 941-962-1194 JSAN CORPORATION Renovations Construction & Handyman Services 941-243-0995 Lic# CRC1332505 jsancorporation@gmail. com Flooring, Drywall, Painting, Repairs, Kitchen and Bathrooms, Trim & Doors. Free Estimates. Credit Cards Accepted. ISLE TILE EXPERT INSTALLATION of floors, custom showers, backsplash, deck/lanai. Licensed and insured. References available. Call Chris at 941-3028759 please visit website: isletileservices.com

“HAMMERED HOMES” (SAVING HOMES SINCE 1984) Handyman services, renovations. Free Estimates & Consulting. Call before making decision, save money. 941-778-3206 HOME IMPROVEMENT Michigan General Contractor 30+ yrs. experience. Large or small projects. Budget minded knowledgeable tradesman will complete your project start to finish: On Time/On Budget. Call Mike 616-204-8822.

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

FEBRUARY 17, 2021

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, Vacation, VRBO Rentals . Also available Pressure Washing, Roof Cleaning, Paver Sealing and Windows. Call 941565-3931.

REAL ESTATE HOMES & CONDOS FOR SALE GULF FRONT CONDOS Vista Grande, WestWinds– CANAL FRONT HOME Holmes Beach –DUPLEXES & MORE Island Real Estate ASK big Alan Galletto 941-232-2216 IMMACULATE WATERFRONT HOME 520 Kumquat Dr. 4BD/5BA 3928sf Coastal Beauty! Prime location on AMI. $2,750,000 Call Charles Buky Coldwell Banker 941-228-6086 HOLMES BEACH 4BR/3.5BA home for sale. 1 ½ blocks from Beach. $1,399,000. Call 724-263-6390

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

REALTOR FOR HIRE. BUYING OR SELLING on AMI? 17 years experience & USAF Veteran. Call Kelly Gitt Keller Williams Realty today 941-799-9299. FOR SALE BY OWNER Single family home. 2BR/2BA 203 84th St. Holmes Beach. Lot size 9000sf Call 440-983-7232

1973 MOBILE HOME: REMODELED interior 2020, new insulation, vinyl roof with transferable warranty, flooring, windows, kitchen-bath, on-demand hot water unit, exterior doors, window shades and lighting. Fully furnished - dedicated parking space $98,500. (Located the Sandpiper Resort 55+ community co-op mobile home park) No land share. Call Erik for appointment 813-6793561 BY OWNER: 1BR/1.5BA end unit villa w/carport in Mt. Vernon on Sarasota Bay, a 55+ community minutes from AMI gulf beaches. The villa is cheery and bright. Extensively updated, including: hardwood floors, tiled baths, breakfast bar, birch kitchen cabinets, stove w/ microwave above, dishwasher, kitchen and bath fixtures, and fans. Lots of closet space, storage, outside utility room.New A/C system installed 07/20. Mt. Vernon is an active senior community with many social clubs and activities, a clubhouse, pool, sauna, tennis, shuffleboard, walking/biking paths, fishing, woodworking shop, and more. Free boat docks and kayak/RV/trailer storage subject to availability. OFFERED AT $162,900, 727479-4919 or 303-725-7160

RENTALS: ANNUAL ANNUAL RENTALS WANTED! We have well qualified tenants for beach and mainland annual rentals, Full management or Finders fee. Call today for details. Ask for Paige DUNCAN REAL ESTATE 513-3821992. COZY COTTAGE SANDPIPER 55+ Resort. 1 ½ minute walk to Beach or Bay. 1BR/1BA. Washer/ dryer For Sale or Rent. Call 941251-4767. Leave number on machine. BEAUTIFUL / ANNUAL RENTAL in Bradenton Beach. $2200 Lovely patios, Outdoor shower, completely updated with new appliances, gas stove, off street parking. No Cats, Dogs Okay. Call Lisa Marie 941-720-6674

www.amisun.com

FEBRUARY 17, 2021

BUSINESS & SERVICE DIRECTORY HOME IMPROVEMENT

HOME IMPROVEMENT

THE SUN

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

PAINTING

TRANSPORTATION

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

RENTALS: SEASONAL & VACATION TIFFANY PLACE Gulf Front Condo for Rent Incredible views from living room and master bedroom. 2BR/2BA Green Real Estate Call 941-778-0455

SEASONAL RENTAL in PALMA SOLA. 3BR/2BA weekly or monthly rates. Contact Barb Grace 941201-2190 ANNA MARIA ISLAND CONDOS Large pool, beach access, free WiFi, 1&2 Bedroom $700/$800/$900 a wk. redekercondosonami. com Tim 941-704-7525 COZY COTTAGE TASTEFULLY Furnished. Close to Beach, tennis courts and Boat Ramp, Holmes Beach. Call 941-778-2919 2/17 NEW Brockway

TRANSPORTATION AMI TAXI metered-on-callcards accepted. Airport: Tampa $95, Sarasota $40, Clearwater $85, Orlando $195. Call 941-447-8372 or 941-447-8376. amitaxi4u@ gmail.com, www.amitaxi. com ANYTIME TRANSPORTATION to all Airports, Casino, etc. Tampa $70. Sarasota $35. Pets welcome. Very dependable. Reasonable rates. Contact Jeanne. 941-779-5095

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

THE SUN

www.amisun.com

FEBRUARY 17, 2021

Anna Maria Island Sun February 17, 2021

Articles inside

CLASSIFIEDS

RESTAURANTS

SPORTS

OUTDOORS