Anna Maria Island Sun January 11, 2023

FDEP seeks $8,500 for Aqua’s mangrove violations

Aqua developer Carlos Beruff was out of the country when the order was received.

BY JOE HENDRICKS SUN CORRESPONDENT | jhendricks@amisun.com

MANATEE COUNTY – The Florida Department of Environmental Protection (FDEP) is levying

an $8,500 penalty for the improper mangrove trimming and debris removal activities that occurred along the Aqua development shoreline in 2022.

Located between Sarasota Bay and the El Conquistador Parkway in unincorporated Manatee County, the Aqua property (formerly known as Long Bar Pointe) being developed by Medallion Home includes hundreds of single-family and

multi-family residential units currently being built during the initial construction phase.

On Dec. 22, FDEP Southwest District Director Kelley Boatwright sent an electronic letter and proposed consent order to Long Bar Pointe LLLP and Medallion Home representative Rob Bosarge. The letter was also sent to Medallion Home President and CEO Carlos Beruff, Medallion Home Manager of Land

Development Chris Chavez, FDEP Environmental Specialist Derrick Hudson, FDEP Secretary Shawn Hamilton and Gov. Ron DeSantis. The letter requested that Long Bar Pointe review, sign and return the proposed consent order by Jan. 3 if in agreement with the proposed terms, or to contact FDEP immediately if not in agreement.

Deputy helps save sergeant’s life

Deputy Jared Leggett and Sgt. Tommy Fraser treated Sgt. Brett Getman until the paramedics arrived.

BY JOE HENDRICKS SUN CORRESPONDENT | jhendricks@amisun.com

ANNA MARIA – Sgt. Brett Getman is recovering from a heart attack he suffered while on duty on Dec. 19 and he credits Deputy Jared Leggett and others for saving his life.

Getman has led the Manatee County Sheriff’s Office Anna Maria Unit since January 2020. Leggett transferred to the Anna Maria Unit in early December.

On Tuesday, Jan. 3, Getman and Leggett spoke during a press conference held at Anna Maria City Hall and organized by the Sheriff’s Office in

response to press inquiries from The Sun and Fox 13 Tampa Bay.

Also in attendance were Getman’s mother, Vicki Getman, his father, Ron Getman, his daughter, Abbey Getman, his sister, Amy Lock and his brotherin-law, Keith Lock, who serves as a Manatee County EMS district chief. Getman’s daughters Sophia and Savannah were unable to attend.

Tampa-based American Heart Association Communications Director Johnny Johnson also attended the media event that coincidentally occurred the morning after NFL player Damar Hamlin experienced cardiac arrest during the nationally televised Buffalo Bills-Cincinnati Bengals football game.

“On Dec. 19th, around 10:30 in the morning, we got a call for a trespassing complaint. We located the subject on

the beach and made the arrest,” Getman said.

The alleged criminal activity occurred at an unlocked vacation rental home at 806 North Shore Drive. The incident sheet names 26-year-old Devon Keith Guidry as the alleged offender

and lists unarmed burglary of an unoccupied dwelling as the alleged offense. Getman said he located the suspect on the beach near Magnolia Avenue.

“We’ve had issues with the same subject before but we hadn’t been able to pinpoint him at a location. He was going into unlocked vacation rentals. We’ve stressed to the rental companies that their cleaners and other contractors need to lock the doors when they leave,” Getman said.

“I came back to the office (in the city hall building) and started doing my report. I was sitting at the desk typing and everything just went black. Thank God Deputy Leggett was in the office with me. If he wasn’t there, I would not be here. The medics treated me quickly

JOE HENDRICKS | SUN

This photo taken in April illustrates where the Aqua mangroves were trimmed to create better views for Aqua’s multi-family residential buildings.

JOE HENDRICKS | SUN Deputy Jared Leggett, left, helped save Sgt. Brett Getman’s life after he suffered a heart attack.

No-swim advisory issued for Palma Sola South

BY LESLIE LAKE SUN CORRESPONDENT | llake@amisun.com

BRADENTON - Due to high bacteria levels, the Florida Department of Health-Manatee has issued a no-swim advisory for Palma Sola South, located along Manatee Avenue on Palma Sola Bay.

DOH-Manatee received test results from water samples taken at Palma Sola South on Jan. 3 that show an elevated level of enterococci bacteria.

A no-swim advisory is issued when it is thought that contact with the water at the site could make beachgoers sick.

The advisory will be in effect until the water meets Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) safety guidelines.

Other beaches located in Manatee County are not under advisory.

As a participant in the Healthy Beaches Program, DOH-Manatee col-

High

Medium

RED TIDE REPORT

Low

Source: Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission

lects water samples at select beaches each week. The samples are then sent to labs to determine whether or not levels of enteric bacteria (enterococci) – which can cause human disease, infections or rashes – are acceptable

based on EPA standards. If levels are unacceptable, a no-swim advisory is issued; a no-swim advisory is lifted once the levels are acceptable.

The last time no-swim advisories were in place was last year from July 26 to Aug.

3 for Bayfront Park north, Manatee Beach north, Coquina Beach north and the south side of the Palma Sola Causeway.

During the no-swim advisory on Aug. 2 at Manatee Beach, there appeared to be some confusion about water safety as many beachgoers were in the water. Some cited the green flag, indicating low hazard, flying above the lifeguard station. The flag system is a warning system for rip currents or stinging marine life.

“The flag system has nothing to do with bacteria in the water,” Florida Department of Health Communications Director Christopher Tittel said.

Additional information about the Healthy Beaches program can be found by calling 941-714-7593, or by visiting the Florida Department of Health’s website at www.FloridaHealth.gov and selecting Beach Water Quality under the Environmental Health tab of the navigation bar.

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

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

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

Very low (possible respiratory irritation)

Background (no effects) None (no red tide present)

ISLAND NEWS

IN BRIEF

Vegetable thief strikes in Holmes Beach

A vegetable thief has struck in Holmes Beach, lopping the heads off broccoli and cauliflower grown by participants in the city’s community garden. Located next to city hall on Marina Drive, the garden is planted and maintained by individuals and groups who lease the planter boxes from the city through its Parks and Beautification Committee. Committee members remind everyone that items grown in the garden area are not available for the public to harvest. City Commissioner Carol Soustek said she would look into having a security camera installed overlooking the garden plots. No suspects have been identified.

Code

enforcement officer resigns

Bradenton Beach Code Enforcement Officer Ron Peterson has resigned effective Dec. 22. Peterson, a Bradenton resident, began his tenure with the city in April 2021. Peterson worked under the supervision of Building Official Steve Gilbert, who will temporarily serve as the city’s code enforcement officer until Peterson’s successor is hired.

Agenda includes new food truck ordinance

The Anna Maria City Commission will meet on Thursday, Jan. 12 at 2 p.m. The commission will honor Carol Carter and Suzi Fox as the city’s Distinguished Citizens of the Year. The city attorney will then present the first reading of a new food truck ordinance that, if adopted, would limit food trucks to operating only on privatelyowned properties located in the C-1 (Commercial) zoning district. The mayor will provide a Reimagining Pine Avenue update. The consent agenda includes Dusty Crane’s appointment to the Planning and Zoning Board and special event permit and permit fee waiver requests for The Center’s The Orchestra (former ELO members) concert on March 21, Murder Mystery Dinner on March 4, St. Patrick’s Day Parade on March 12, Wine Tasting Tour on March 18 and the Vintage Flea market at City Pier Park on Feb. 12.

Bradenton Beach announces appointments

Commissioner Marilyn Maro will serve as the vice mayor of Bradenton Beach in 2023. Mayor John Chappie nominated Maro to serve in that role during the Jan. 5 commission meeting when the annual commission liaison appointments were made. Commissioner Ralph Cole will chair the Community Redevelopment Agency for another year, with Chappie serving as vice-chair. Chappie will also serve as the ManaSota League of Cities liaison, the Scenic W.A.V.E.S. Committee liaison, the Keep Manatee Beautiful liaison and the Sarasota Bay Estuary Program liaison. Maro will serve as the Tingley Memorial Library liaison. Cole will serve as The Center of Anna Maria Island liaison and the Anna Maria Turtle Watch and Shorebird Monitoring liaison. Commissioner Jake Spooner will serve another year as the Bridge Street Merchants liaison. Commissioner Jan Vosburgh will serve as the Annie Silver Community Center liaison and as the Anna Maria Island Chamber of Commerce liaison.

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Historical signs to be placed in Cortez

BY LESLIE LAKE SUN CORRESPONDENT | llake@amisun.com

CORTEZ - Nearly 10 months after The Friends of the Florida Maritime Museum received a grant for a multi-dimensional historical project in Cortez, large heritage signs commemorating various aspects of the fishing village will be installed.

The organization has received a $10,000 Community Project Grant from Florida Humanities with $5,000 in matching funds from the Bradenton Area Convention and Visitors BureauArts and Culture in March 2022. Those funds support “Stories from the Gulf Coast Commercial Fishing Industry in Cortez: Environmental Changes.”

While the primary focus of the multi-faceted project was oral histories from locals in the fishing industry, the most visible aspect will be five large wood-framed metal signs placed in yet-to-be determined spots throughout the historic fishing village of Cortez.

The 4’ by 8’ signs were designed

by Kristin Sweeting of the Friends of the Florida Maritime Museum. The themes are: Welcome, Harvest, Craftsmanship, Growing Up and Environment. Each sign features historical images as well as text explaining various aspects of Cortez history.

“We’re hoping to have the signs in place before the Commercial Fishing Festival (Feb. 18-19),” she said. “But they have to be in before March 1.”

The photos on the signs were obtained from the Manatee County Public Library Historical Digital Collection, the Florida Maritime Museum Collection and from private collections.

Sweeting presented the conceptual designs of the signs to the Florida Institute for Saltwater Heritage (FISH) board members at their Jan. 2 meeting.

Board members determined that signs from a 1990s project will remain in place in the village. No definite decision had been made yet as to the exact locations that

the new signs will be placed.

“The original plan was to replace the 1990s signs from the Vanishing Cultures project,” Sweeting said. “But based on the FISH meeting, those signs will stay or be relocated within the village.”

Commercial fishing industry workers in Cortez will be interviewed about the changes in water quality and the environmental issues they have witnessed over the years. Included in the project will also be professional video showing segments of the oral histories.

Commerical fishermen who were interviewed are Art Shiver, Angel Martinez, Chris Pringle, Jay Lucas, Mark Ibasfalean and Tim Caniff. Also interviewed were Karen Bell, co-owner of A.P. Bell Fish Co. Inc., Kyle Ibasfalean, A.P. Bell Fish Co. Inc. employee, Paul Moore, Cortez Bait and Seafood employee and John Banyas, owner of Cortez Bait and Seafood.

The interviews were conducted by folklorist Tina Bucuvalas and filmed by TriForce Pictures in Sarasota.

BEN GREEN | SUBMITTED

Mark Green, age 3, helps Grandpa Tink unload the catch in 1959 Cortez.

FISH puts out call for Fishing Festival sponsors

BY LESLIE LAKE SUN CORRESPONDENT | llake@amisun.com

CORTEZ - The non-profit Florida Institute for Saltwater Heritage (FISH) has put out a call for sponsors for its annual Cortez Commercial Fishing Festival.

The festival will be held on Feb. 18-19 on 46th Avenue at the end of 123rd Street in Cortez. FISH Treasurer Jane von Hahmann said that the two-day event typically draws around 15,000 attendees.

FISH is a not-for-profit 501(c)(3) corporation that operates entirely through fundraising events, donations and volunteer efforts.

Sponsorships and the festival will raise funds to help maintain the FISH Preserve, a 100-acre parcel of land adjacent to the fishing village of Cortez that was purchased through a grassroots community effort led by FISH.

“The key is that money we raise from the festival goes to maintain the preserve,” von

Hahmann said. “We will have banners on stage and sponsors’ names go on the back of volunteers’ T-shirts.”

The FISH Preserve is one of the only undeveloped pieces of land left on Sarasota Bay.

This year’s festival theme is “Cortez Kind - Over 100 Years of Commercial Fishing.”

“The Cortez Commercial Fishing Festival celebrates our fishing heritage with a mix of great live music, nautical arts and crafts, children’s activities, environmental exhibits, delicious seafood, and, of course, cold beer,” according to the FISH website. “It’s a party with a purpose, since all proceeds benefit the FISH mission and the FISH Preserve. Visitors can wander one of the last true working waterfronts in the state, and immerse themselves in local history at the Cortez Cultural Center and Florida Maritime Museum.”

To become a sponsor, call 941-301-4000 or email FishFestArt@gmail.com by Jan. 15.

Sponsor levels are:

GOLIATH GROUPER

$5,000 and Grouper Sandwich - $2,500. Those include VIP parking, 15 entry tickets, $150 in food tickets, stage mentions of sponsorship, logo on all print and digital advertising, and prime banner placement on stage.

MULLET LEVEL

$1,500 includes VIP parking, 10 entry tickets, $100 in food tickets, stage mentions, logo on advertising and banner placement.

STONE CRAB LEVEL

$1,000 includes VIP parking, six entry tickets, $50 in food tickets, stage mentions and logo on advertising.

SHRIMP LEVEL

$500 includes VIP parking, two entry tickets, $20 in food tickets, stage mentions and logo on advertising.

AQUA: FDEP seeks $8,500 for mangrove violations

FROM PAGE 1

The consent order proposes a settlement between FDEP and Long Bar Pointe LLLP. The order notes FDEP personnel inspected the Aqua mangroves on June 17 and Aug. 25 and improper trimming and removal activities were conducted in violation of the mitigation bank permit and general mangrove permit Long Bar Pointe was previously issued in accordance with Florida’s Mangrove Trimming and Preservation Act. Coastline Tree Service performed the mangrove trimming and debris removal activities in question.

According to the consent order, FDEP found the following violations occurred:

• Respondent did not properly remove and dispose of all mangrove trimmings over 3 feet long or over 3 inches in diameter.

• Respondent did not evenly distribute the remaining trimmings.

• Respondent reduced a portion of mangrove foliage more than the authorized amount of 25% annually on the waterward extent of the mangrove fringe.

• Respondent did not provide adequate pre- and post-photo documentation of the trimming event.

The consent order seeks an $8,500 penalty settlement that includes $1,000 for costs and expenses incurred during the investigation and the preparation of the consent order, $3,000 for reducing the mangrove heights by more than 25%, $3,000 for debris removal violations and $1,500 for improper documentation of the trimming activities. The check payment is to include a notation referencing the Water Quality Assurance Trust Fund.

The consent order includes an additional daily fine of $1,000 for

3909 East Bay Drive, Suite 210, Holmes Beach, FL, 34217

778-3986

|

Corrections

• The city of Bradenton Beach did not receive a $3 million state appropriation in 2022. A recent year-in-review story stated

otherwise. The Sun later learned the anticipated appropriation funds were withheld as part of the state’s response to Hurricane Ian. The city has applied for a similar appropriation in 2023.

• FDEP Southwest District Director Kelley Boatwright is a female. A recent year-in-review story about improper mangrove trimming used an incorrect gender-related pronoun.

AQUA: FDEP seeks $8,500 for mangrove violations

FROM PAGE 5

each day Long Bar Pointe fails to comply with the consent order requirements. If FDEP is forced to file a lawsuit to recover the stipulated penalties, the agency can seek civil penalties greater than the $8,500 stipulated in the order.

AQUA RESPONSE

On behalf of Long Bar Pointe, Chavez sent Hudson a Jan. 4 email that said, “Carlos Beruff is currently in Asia and is 12 hours ahead. We have emailed him so that he is aware of the consent order. We cannot sign, or communicate that we are not in agreement, until he reviews.”

Chavez informed Hudson that Bosarge no longer works for Medallion Home and all future correspondence should be sent to Andy Kern.

When contacted on Jan. 6, FDEP Public Information Specialist Brian Humphreys said, “DEP has been in contact with staff at Aqua by the Bay. It is our understanding they are reviewing our consent order and we anticipate having their response soon.”

SUNCOAST WATERKEEPER RESPONSE

FDEP’s investigations were initially prompted by citizen complaints the agency received in early 2022 – with additional correspondence and photographs later received from the Suncoast Waterkeeper organization.

In August, the Suncoast Waterkeeper board sent a letter to FDEP officials that was critical of the agency’s initial inspection efforts and the lack of penalties imposed. That letter also expressed concerns about the significant amount of mangrove debris that had not been properly removed.

Regarding the consent order, Suncoast Waterkeeper board member Rusty Chinnis said, “This would not

have happened if we had not pounded it. They cut more of the mangroves than they were allowed to cut. FDEP initially reviewed the mangrove cuttings, said everything was fine and gave them a pass.”

Despite past criticisms, Chinnis, The Sun’s outdoors columnist, praised the FDEP staff members’ recent efforts.

“I think the people at FDEP care and they do a good job. They’re underfunded and I don’t think the powers-that-be are giving them the authority to do what they need to do.

When Rick Scott was governor, he basically eviscerated it and allowed the developers to police themselves. We see where that got us,” Chinnis said.

“If done properly, mangrove trimming can create views while still protecting the mangroves, but that’s not being done. The enforcement is weak and $8,500 is the cost of doing business,” he said.

Regarding mangrove trimming in general, Chinnis said, “We have documented to FDEP the fact that people have been cited for mangrove violations and were not given any penalties; and a couple years later, the same people are caught again because there were no repercussions.”

Taken in August, this photo shows the diameters of some of the mangrove trees and branches cut.

ON THE AGENDA

ANNA MARIA

10005 GULF DRIVE

FOR INFORMATION, CALL 941-708-6130

Please visit www.cityofannamaria.com or contact city hall for more information.

Jan. 12, 2 p.m. – City Commission meeting

Jan. 16, all day – City offices closed, Martin Luther King Jr. Day

Jan. 19, 6 p.m. – Candidate presentation/City Commission workshop

Jan. 20, 6 p.m. – Candidate presentation/City Commission workshop

Jan. 24, 10 a.m. – Special magistrate hearing

Jan. 26, 6 p.m. – City Commission meeting

BRADENTON BEACH

107 GULF DRIVE N.

FOR INFORMATION, CALL 941-778-1005

Please visit www.cityofbradentonbeach. com or contact city hall for more information.

Jan. 11, 9:30 a.m. – Community Redevelopment Agency meeting

Jan. 12, 4 p.m. – Manatee County stormwater meeting

Jan. 16, all day – City offices closed, Martin Luther King Jr. Day

Jan. 17, 9:30 a.m. – City Commission and Planning and Zoning Board joint meeting

Jan. 18, 1 p.m. – Scenic WAVES meeting

Jan. 24, 9:30 a.m. – City Commission workshop

HOLMES BEACH

5801 MARINA DRIVE

FOR INFORMATION, CALL 941-708-5800

Please visit www.holmesbeachfl.org or contact city hall for more information.

Jan. 11, 9 a.m. – Clean Water Ad-hoc Committee meeting

Jan. 12, 9 a.m. – Stormwater Improvements selection committee meeting

Jan. 16, all day – City offices closed, Martin Luther King Jr. Day

Jan. 24, 10 a.m. – Code Compliance special magistrate hearing

Jan. 25, 5 p.m. – City Commission meeting with work session to follow

Jan. 26, 11:30 a.m. – HBPD police officers pension board meeting

ISLAND-WIDE

Jan. 17, 6 p.m. – West Manatee Fire Rescue district board meeting, administration building, 701 63rd St. W., Bradenton

EVENTS

WEDNESDAY, JAN. 11

Island Time Book Club, Island Branch Library, 5701 Marina Drive, Holmes Beach, 6:30 p.m.

THURSDAY, JAN. 12

Seashell Shore Walk, Coquina Beach, 2650 Gulf Dr. S., Bradenton Beach, 9 a.m. to noon

Creature Feature: Great Egret, Robinson Preserve, 840 Ninth Ave. N.W., Bradenton, 10 a.m.

FROM PAGE 7

AMI Chamber luncheon, Discovery Village, 1414 69th Ave. W., Bradenton, 11:30 a.m., $18 for members or $30 for prospective members.

Sunshine Stitchers knit and crochet, Island Branch Library, 5701 Marina Drive, Holmes Beach, 2 p.m.

Friends of the Island Library Lecture and Travel Series: A History of Egmont Key, Roser Church fellowship hall, 512 Pine Ave., Anna Maria, 2 p.m.

Thursdays in Paradise Stroll featuring local art, music and food, Bridge Street, Bradenton Beach, 5-8 p.m.

FRIDAY, JAN. 13

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

Mah-jongg Club for experienced players, Island Branch Library, 5701 Marina Drive, Holmes Beach, 11:30 a.m.

Rock garden rock painting, Island Branch Library, 5701 Marina Drive, Holmes Beach, 2 p.m.

SATURDAY, JAN. 14

Robinson Runners, Robinson Preserve, 1704 99th St. N.W., Bradenton, 7 a.m.

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

Anna Maria Winter Arts & Crafts Show, city field, 5901 Marina Drive, Holmes Beach, 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.

Origami Club, Island Branch Library, 5701 Marina Drive, Holmes Beach, 10 a.m.

Geocaching 101, Island Branch Library, 5701 Marina Drive, Holmes Beach, 1 p.m.

SUNDAY, JAN. 15

Anna Maria Winter Arts & Crafts Show, city field, 5901 Marina Drive, Holmes Beach, 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.

TUESDAY, JAN. 17

Farmer’s Market, City Pier Park, 103 N. Bay Blvd., Anna Maria, 8:30 a.m.-2 p.m.

Family story time, Island Branch Library, 5701 Marina Drive, Holmes Beach, 10 a.m.

Rotary Club of Anna Maria Island meeting, Slicker’s Eatery, 12012 Cortez Road W., Bradenton, 11:30 a.m.

Mah-jongg for experienced players, Island Branch Library, 5701 Marina Drive, Holmes Beach, 11:30 a.m.

Duplicate bridge, Episcopal Church of the Annunciation, 4408 Gulf Drive, Holmes Beach, noon

One-on-one tech help, Island Branch Library, 5701 Marina Drive, Holmes Beach, 2-3:30 p.m.

Movies in the Park, “Singin’ in the Rain,” City Pier Park, 103 N. Bay Blvd. Anna Maria, 6:30 p.m.

THURSDAY, JAN. 19

Tree Tots: Animal Parts, Robinson Preserve Mosaic Nest, 840 Ninth Ave. N.W., Bradenton, 10 a.m.

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

Sunshine Stitchers Knit and Crochet, Island Branch Library, 5701 Marina Drive, Holmes Beach, 2 p.m.

Tommy DeCarlo

Saturday, January 21 at The Center

Doors Open at 6 pm

The Center of Anna Maria Island 407 Magnolia Ave, Anna Maria Island

and jimmy leahey!

An evening of classic rock from the ‘70s and ’80s with Tommy DeCarlo and a top band of touring proffessionals, including special guests August Zadra and Jimmy Leahey.

Health department offers free COVID vaccines

The Florida Department of Health in Manatee County (DOH-Manatee) continues to provide free COVID-19 vaccinations at two clinics in Bradenton.

DOH-Manatee offers the COVID-19 series and boosters on its main campus at 410 Sixth Ave. E. and its satellite location at 7780 Westmoreland Drive (corner

of Westmoreland Drive and U.S. 41). Anyone wanting to get vaccinated can call for an appointment at 941-242-6646 or walk in at either location between 8 a.m. and 4 p.m. on weekdays.

After 15 weeks of being low, the Manatee County COVID community transmission level rose to medium this week.

COVID-19 in Manatee County

Source: Centers for Disease Control

Manatee County community level of COVID-19 transmission

City proclaims May 1 Suzi Fox Day

BY LESLIE LAKE SUN CORRESPONDENT | llake@amisun.com

BRADENTON BEACH - The first day of turtle nesting season on Anna Maria Island - May 1, 2023 - will be proclaimed “Suzi Fox Day” citywide.

The Bradenton Beach City Commission issued the proclamation on Jan. 5 to honor Fox, who served as the Anna Maria Island Turtle Watch and Shorebird Monitoring Executive Director until her death on Sept. 30, 2022.

The proclamation states in part, “Suzi Fox led the organization and its league of volunteers for sea turtle protection to include protection for critical shorebirds.”

Fox diligently worked to ensure sea turtles and shorebirds have a safe place to nest, feed and migrate, the proclamation continues.

“Suzi encouraged governments to strengthen legislations to provide sea turtle and shorebird protections on AMI beaches, through monitoring and

patrolling our shoreline.”

The proclamation credits Fox with reaching out to and educating the public about sea turtle and shorebird habitat.

“Suzi’s actions have led Anna Maria Island to expand on ecotourism op portunities and on further educating the public and future generations about our sea turtle and shorebirds habitat and the crucial role we play in ensuring their existence in the future.”

Fox began as a volunteer in the 1990s and eventually took over leadership of the conservation organization, which grew under her directorship.

“In three decades, we monitored 7,339 turtle activities, protected 4,454 nests, 301,694 turtle eggs, and watched 271,680 hatchlings depart to become a future generation of loggerheads that will return to the region as they reach maturity,” according to the Turtle Watch website.

Sea turtles on the Island broke both nesting and hatchling records in 2022.

Carter, Fox named citizens of the year

Former City Commissioner Carol Carter and former Anna Maria Island Turtle Watch and Shorebird Monitoring Director Suzi Fox will share the city of Anna Maria’s Distinguished Citizen of the Year award for 2022. On Jan. 5, the city-appointed selection commission decided Carter and Fox would share this year’s award. Carter recently moved to Sarasota County after spending

several years as an Anna Maria City Commission member. Prior to that, she spent many years as a Planning and Zoning Board member. Before her unexpected passing in 2022, Fox spent more than 20 years leading the Turtle Watch organization. Carter and Fox will be honored during the Thursday, Jan. 12 Anna Maria City Commission meeting that begins at 2 p.m.

Celebration of life planned for Suzi Fox

The family of Suzi Fox has scheduled a celebration of life on Saturday, Jan. 14 at 4 p.m. at the Oak Avenue Beach in Anna Maria.

The celebration is open to the community and all are welcome to join in remembering her and her service to wildlife on Anna Maria Island.

A longtime Island resident and executive direc -

tor of Anna Maria Island Turtle Watch and Shorebird Monitoring, Fox died on Sept. 30 after a fall. Parking will be at The Center of Anna Maria Island, 407 Magnolia Ave., Anna Maria. Guests will be shuttled to the beach access from The Center. In case of inclement weather, the service will be held at The Center.

5344 Gulf Drive

Holmes Beac h (941) 779-BEER

5350 Gulf Drive

Holmes Beac h (941) 251-3681

5346 Gulf Drive Holmes Beac h (941) 778-5788

Suzi Fox and her late partner, Skip Coyle, patrolled Anna Maria Island’s beaches for signs of sea turtle nesting.

Island Players present ‘The Odd Couple, The Female Version’

The Island Players continue their 74th season with Neil Simon’s ‘The Odd Couple, The Female Version,’ which runs Jan. 12-29.

BY JASON SCHAFFER SUN CORRESPONDENT | jschaffer@amisun.com

ANNA MARIA - The Island Players are starting 2023 with another hit Neil Simon play. After a brilliant production of Simon’s “I Ought to be in Pictures” in November, they take on “The Odd Couple,” the third play of their 74th season.

Simon introduced the world to mismatched roommates Felix and Oscar in 1965. Twenty years later, this revised version made its Broadway debut with Florence Unger and Olive Madison playing Trivial Pursuit (instead of poker) and pursuing the Spanish-born Costazuela brothers. Directed by Preston Boyd, this show promises plenty of laughs from one of the largest casts in recent Players memory. Also, two actresses will tackle the co-lead role of Olive. They will each play Olive in eight of the performances, instead of one actor playing all 16.

“There’s seven people in the cast, but

Holmes Beach Art Walk returns Friday

The monthly Holmes Beach Art Walk returns Friday, Jan. 13 from 5:30-7:30 p.m., featuring the best of local art, crafts, dining and shopping. In addition to both Island Gallery West and The Artists’ Guild of Anna Maria Island Gallery staying open later, so will other shops in the Gulf Drive and Marina Drive area. Island Gallery West will feature live music in front of the gallery.

I chose to double cast the role of Olive, so there’s eight,” Boyd said. “Every two or three performances, we switch Olives. Normally when I look at auditions, I see somebody who is just right for the part, but rarely will I see two people who are right for the part. In these auditions, I saw Laura Morales and knew I had my Olive, but then

Movies in the Park

This week’s free Classic Movies in the Park features “Singin’ in the Rain” on Tuesday, Jan. 17 at 6:30 p.m. at City Pier Park in Anna Maria. Bring a blanket, chair and refreshments and enjoy the classic film next to Tampa Bay. All showings are subject to cancellation due to adverse weather conditions.

I see Leona Collesano and in both of them, I saw what I wanted for that part. I thought, why not double cast it and let both of them play an equal number of shows.”

Boyd said this show is a bit more difficult to put together than most due to casting and rehearsals happening during the holiday season, which presents unique

Arts and crafts show comes to Holmes Beach

The Anna Maria Winter Art and Craft show is coming to Holmes Beach city field on Saturday and Sunday, Jan. 14-15. Featuring local and visiting artists and merchants, the show will be open from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. both days with everything from fine art to fashion, accessories and unique jewelry on display. Admission is free and up to $500 of

challenges.

“The slot that is most difficult to find a director for is the Christmas slot,” Boyd said. “You have to audition and cast the show before Thanksgiving, then you have to take a little break. Then you go on to Christmas, but you have to take a break for Christmas and then New Year’s. I told them I was available then, that I wasn’t going out of town and didn’t have a big family that was coming to town, so it made sense for me to direct this one.”

Boyd said that fans of the original Odd Couple television show and movie will find this play very familiar even though they may not be familiar with the female version. For those not familiar with the original Odd Couple, rest assured that the play will offer plenty of laughs for audiences of all ages, as most Neil Simon plays tend to do.

“The Odd Couple, The Female Version” runs Thursday, Jan. 12 through Sunday, Jan. 29 with daily performances at 7:30 p.m. and a Saturday matinee at 2 p.m. There are no performances on Mondays. Tickets are $25 at the box office and $27 online. The box office is open Monday through Saturday 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. and can be reached by phone at 941-778-5755 or online at www.theislandplayers.org.

the proceeds from the show will go to help fund the Roser Food Pantry. All attendees who bring a canned or non-perishable food item to donate to the food pantry will be eligible for an entry into a raffle to win an art piece. The city field complex is located next to Holmes Beach City Hall at 5901 Marina Drive.

JASON SCHAFFER | SUN

The Island Players cast of ‘The Odd Couple, The Female Version,’ from left, are Jeanne Walther, Kristin Mazzitelli, Cathy Hansel-Edgerton, Seva Anthony, Leona Collesano and Ruth Shaulis, shown rehearsing for the upcoming production.

New business opens this week

The Anna Maria Island Chamber of Commerce is hosting a ribbon-cutting ceremony for the Tahini Beach Café, 103 Gulf Drive N. in Bradenton Beach on Wednesday, Jan. 11 at noon. For more information, contact Betsy Hughes at 941-251-4022 or email info@ tahinibeachcafe.com.

AMI Chamber luncheon at Discovery Village

The Anna Maria Island Chamber of Commerce will hold its next luncheon at Discovery Village, 1414 69th Ave. W. in Bradenton on Thursday, Jan. 12 from 11:30 a.m. to 1 p.m. The price is $18 for members and $30 for guests and includes a buffet-style lunch. All participants are encouraged to bring a raffle prize to be given away at the event. RSVP to becky@amichamber.org or by calling 941-778-1541.

Vintage Flea Market coming to City Pier Park

With everything from art, antiques, furniture, collectibles, nauticals, jewelry and more, Ginny’s and Jane E’s Vintage Flea Market promises to be a great opportunity to pick up something local and unique. The event is set for Thursday, Jan. 12 from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. at City Pier Park in Anna Maria.

Monetti Apparel to hold grand opening event

Monetti Apparel invites the public to attend its grand opening event on Tuesday, Jan. 24 at 5:30 p.m. at 119 Bridge St., Suite 140-A in Bradenton Beach. Do some shopping and meet the owners and staff to help celebrate their new business. For more information, visit www.monettiapparel.com.

Business Card Exchange to feature Trolley Awards

The Anna Maria Island Chamber of Commerce’s January Business Card Exchange at The Seafood Shack will celebrate the local non-profit organizations that will receive Trolley Grants this year. To date, the Trolley Grant Program has provided more than $418,000 to local organizations, and that total will grow this year. The networking opportunity is set for Thursday, Jan. 26 from 5-7:30 p.m. The fee is $5 for members and $10 for prospective new members and advanced registration is required. RSVP to becky@amichamber.org or by calling 941-778-1541, and don’t forget to bring business cards. The Seafood Shack is located at 4110 127th St. W. in Cortez.

DEPUTY: Helps save sergeant's life

FROM PAGE 1

and transported me to Blake Medical Center (HCA Florida Blake Hospital in Bradenton).”

Getman referred to his heart attack as a "widowmaker" – the type of heart attack that occurs when the heart’s largest artery is blocked.

When asked how he felt, Getman said, “I’m doing OK. I’m sticking to the advice of my doctors and doing what they tell me. It’s cliché to say it’s a true blessing, but that’s exactly what it is. I have a second chance at this life. I know that I have something more to give and something more that I have to provide for my children. I wasn’t meant to go yet.”

When asked when he might return to work, Getman said, “It’s up to the doctors. There’s no timetable right now for a return.”

Lt. Lou Licata is currently in charge of the Anna Maria Unit.

LEGGETT’S ACTIONS

“We do a lot of our reports in our cars. On this day, I went back to the office,” Leggett said. “We

started having a conversation about what we were going to charge the defendant with. Just after we finished our conversation, he (Getman) fell out of his chair. At first, I thought he was having a seizure. I checked for a pulse. He didn’t have one. I started CPR immediately and started doing chest compressions. On the desk where he sits was the AED (defibrillator). I grabbed the AED after two rounds of CPR. I hit the shock button and gave him his first round and started CPR again. About five or six minutes in, Sgt. Tommy Fraser from the Holmes Beach Police Department showed up and was able to relieve me on CPR so I could go get a VBM (breathing device) and start working on his airway. I had one in my truck.”

Leggett was a firefighter and an EMT before joining the sheriff’s office nearly 11 years ago and Keith Lock was one of his EMT instructors.

“It all kind of goes full circle,” Leggett said. “Sgt. Getman is a perfect example of how important

CPR is. If you have the opportunity to learn CPR and AED usage it could save a life. I’ve done CPR on other individuals, but this is my sergeant, my supervisor, my friend I’m trying to save. I’m grateful he’s still here with us.”

While being transported to the hospital, Getman received a police escort through the Holmes Beach detours.

“I thank God for Deputy Leggett and Sgt. Fraser. I also want to thank West Manatee Fire Rescue and Manatee County EMS. And my surgeon Dr. Baig was phenomenal. I remember talking to him and saying, ‘Don’t let me die. I have my kids.’ I want to thank everybody for their love and support,” Getman said.

Regarding Hamlin’s on-field cardiac arrest, Getman said, “Obviously, it got my attention. It’s more personal now when I see anything like that.”

HEART ASSOCIATION

“It’s an amazing story. Everything happened the exact way it’s supposed to,” Johnson said of Get-

man’s close call. “We want to tell people that CPR is easier than you think. You only need to know two steps: call 911 and then push hard and push fast until help arrives. There’s no liability risk for trying to save somebody’s life. Good Samaritan laws will protect you. Contact the American Heart Association at Heart.org and we can help you find CPR training, and you can learn hands-only CPR in two minutes with the video at our website. We encourage everyone to feel comfortable performing CPR.”

FAMILY THOUGHTS

Vicki Getman said, “I think God has something else planned for Brett and our family had our miracle at Christmas. He’s only 48 years old. He’s too young. The doctor at Blake was absolutely wonderful.”

Ron Getman said, “We’re just so happy that Jared was available to save our son’s life. Had he not been there, we would’ve had a funeral instead of a Christmas celebration.”

JOE HENDRICKS | SUN Family members Ron Getman, Vicki Getman, Abbey Getman, Amy Lock and Keith Lock joined Sgt. Brett Getman (third from left) at the press conference.

2023 Anna Maria Island Sun Readers’ Choice

Business Business

Pool Cleaner (include location)

Pool Contractor

Real Estate Assoc. (include location) Real Estate Co. Rental Co. Resort Retirement Community Service Station Shopping Center Souvenir Shop Spa Window Repair Women’s Apparel

People & Places

Architect architectual Design Art Gallery Artist Attorney Band Bar & Grill

Bartender (include location) Beach

Boat Captain (include location) Business Person

Caterer (include location)

Chef (include location) Chiropractor Dentist Doctor Eye Care Financial Planner

location)

Pest Control Pet Grooming Pet Store Pharmacist (include location) Pharmacy Plumber

Fishing Charter Individual Entertainer Interior Design Massage Therapy

Personal Trainer (include location) School

School Teacher (include location)

People & Places

Veterinarian (include location) Veterinary Clinic View

RULES

Food & Entertainment

Waiter/Waitress (include location) Yoga Studio Asian Restaurant Bagel Shop Bakery Barbecue Breakfast Burger Café Candy Store Deli Festival German Restaurant Golf Course Grouper Sandwich Health Food Store Ice Cream Place Italian Restaurant Key Lime Pie Live Theater Margarita Mexican Restaurant Most Romantic Restaurant New Restaurant Night Spot Pier Pizza Place to see a Sunset Restaurant (overall) Seafood Restaurant Specialty Cocktail Specialty Gourmet Sub/Sandwich Takeout

Please read carefully. To vote in The Sun’s Readers’ Choice Awards you must use an official entry ballot published in The Sun. Copies and faxes will not be accepted. The ballots will appear in The Sun on Jan. 11, Jan. 18, Jan. 25 Only one ballot per person is allowed. At least 10 CATEGORIES must be filled in for the ballot to count and the entry form must be completed. Complete ballots may be dropped off at The Sun’s office, 3909 East Bay Drive Ste. 210, Holmes Beach. or the Anna Maria Chamber office at 5313 Gulf Drive, Holmes Beach. Or you can mail it in to The Sun’s Newspaper, PO Box 1189, Anna Maria, FL 34216. All ballots must be in by January 27, 2023 at 4pm. Prizes in the drawing may not be transferred. Winners are drawn at random from all entries and you don’t have to buy anything to win. Accepting the prizes means winners agree to the use of their names and photographs in subsequent ads and news stories. You must be 18 years or older to participate. Ballots which show signs of tampering will not be counted. We reserve the right to reject any ballot(s) or disqualify any contestant(s).

Food fanatics

of Denny’s favorite dishes; penne with braised short ribs. The second I heard the dish featured short ribs I was sold. Properly cooked, beef short ribs offer some of the most delightful flavor you can find in any meat.

oday’s recipe comes from a good customer and dear friend. Over the years, our regular customers Kim and Denny have become good friends of ours. They are incredibly gracious people who are very considerate of our staff. We have grown to admire them and all they do and enjoy spending time with them. We do have something in common that we talk about often - food. Kim is an incredible cook and well, let’s just say Denny likes to eat. He does have a sophisticated palate so when he likes something, you know it’s outstanding!

Kim and I were talking the other day about new recipe concepts for Hurricane Hanks and she mentioned she had just made one

There are many schools of thought on whether cooking meats with the bone in will improve the overall flavor. The calcified bone itself won’t, but the marrow inside and the connective tissue and fat surrounding the bone do add flavor. The bone, however, does act as a bit of an insulator during cooking. This effectively slows the transfer of heat onto the meat, allowing for the retention of moisture and juiciness. I believe cooking with the bone in does improve the outcome of the meat.

Of course, no great braised beef story ends without a mention of the wine you need to cook it in. Today’s recipe calls for Cabernet Sauvignon. I always recommend starting with a fresh bottle of wine when cooking. This does usually

Penne with Braised Short Ribs

4-6 Servings

Ingredients

5 pounds beef short ribs

Kosher salt and fresh ground black pepper

3 ounces diced pancetta

2 tablespoons virgin olive oil

1 large onion, peeled and finely diced

5 large garlic cloves, minced

1 large can organic diced tomato

1 1/4 cup Cabernet Sauvignon

3 tablespoons Dijon mustard

mean you will have most of the bottle left. Therefore, pick a wine you won’t mind finishing later that evening with your dinner or during cooking if so inclined! Two great Cabernet Sauvignons I recommend are both from Paso Robles. It’s a fantastic area to produce wine. Equidistant between Los Angeles and San Francisco, it is situated near the Pacific Ocean. Winds from the Pacific Ocean cause up to 50-degree temperature swings

from day to night. Warm days and cool nights amplify the sugar in the grapes. Coupled with 700- to 2,000-foot elevation variances and 30 distinct types of soils, endless crafting possibilities produce truly outstanding wine.

My first wine recommendation is Austin Hope Cabernet Sauvignon 2020. This is an incredible wine with aromas of fresh black cherry, burnt sugar and nuances of spice. It has a great mouth feel with

supple tannins and only a touch of acidity. My other recommendation is Postmark Cabernet Sauvignon. Aromas and tastes of blackberry, plum and dark chocolate along with velvety tannins carry the wine to a long rich finish. Austin Hope is available at either Hurricane Liquors or LBK Liquors while Postmark is currently only available at Hurricane Liquors. We do hope you enjoy.

2 tablespoons fresh rosemary, minced

1 3/4 cup beef broth

1 tablespoon chopped fresh rosemary

1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley

12 ounces penne pasta

Shredded Parmesan cheese

Directions

Preheat oven to 350 degrees. In an oven-safe large pot, sauté the pancetta over medium heat until crisp and the fat has rendered. Add the olive oil and increase heat to medium high. Season

the short ribs on all sides with salt and pepper. In batches add the ribs to the pancetta and oil and brown on all sides, about 2 minutes per side. Remove the ribs and set aside. Add the onion and garlic to the pot and cook, stirring frequently until well browned. Add the tomatoes, wine, mustard and rosemary. Bring to a boil and scrape the brown bits loose from the bottom of the pot.

Return the ribs to the pot, add the beef broth, cover with a lid and place in the oven for 2 1/2 hours. Meat is done when it is fork tender and easily falls from the bone. Cool completely and refrigerate overnight.

Remove the ribs from the cooking liquid.

Remove the meat from the bones discarding any congealed fat along with the bones. Using two forks, shred the beef into small pieces. Using an immersion blender, puree the liquid in the pot until smooth. Stir in the shredded beef, rosemary and chopped parsley. Bring to a gentle simmer and season with salt and pepper if desired. Prepare pasta according to package directions, reserving one cup of pasta water. Place the drained pasta into the sauce and combine. If needed, add small amounts of reserved pasta water to thin the sauce. Portion onto plates, top with Parmesan cheese and serve immediately.

Brian Mathae

HURRICANE HANKS

OUTDOORS

The secret to fly casting

Reel Time

RUSTY CHINNIS

verything we learn to do in life is learned by repetition. The act of repeating an action over and over actually trains neurons in the brain to fire together, eventually creating neural pathways that, in time, allow us to act without thinking about it. Consider learning to ride a bike. Did anyone just get on their bike and effortlessly ride? I know I didn’t. It required falling and getting up repeatedly. Now I get on a bike and ride without even thinking about how to balance, steer or anything else that allows me to stay upright. Teaching fly casting reminds

me of those things I now take for granted, like riding my bike, driving my car and fly casting. It’s also shown me why it’s harder for people who have been fly fishing for a long time to master the fundamentals (physics) than for some initiates. Those same pathways that assure success also store bad habits that have been developed over time. This first became apparent to me when I gave lessons to someone who had been fly casting for a long time but who had ingrained bad techniques. When I showed them how to properly move the rod tip in a straight line to form a “tight” wind penetrating loop they understood the concept immediately. The eye-opener for student and teacher was when they tried to repeat the proper casting stroke and their ingrained bad habits overpowered their new understanding.

This isn’t necessarily bad news for long-time casters but does require them to “retrain” their brain. The same applies to proficient casters who are learning to cast with their non-dominant hand. Try this and you’ll see what I mean instantly. If you’re a right-handed caster, putting the rod in the left hand is like handing it to someone whose mind knows the cast, but has a body that doesn’t cooperate. The good news is that by learning the fundamentals of the cast and practicing them repeatedly, anyone can become an excellent fly caster with time.

Although we’ve established that practice is the key to mastering the cast, there’s another “secret” to supercharging your progress – the frequency of the repetition and establishing a habit. Create a

RUSTY CHINNIS | SUN

Fly casting legend Joan Wulff demonstrates one of her unique and effective techniques for mastering the casting stroke. SEE REEL TIME, PAGE 21

REEL TIME: Secret to fly casting

FROM PAGE 20

realistic practice schedule that you can stick to. It’s much more effective to practice every day for a few minutes than to practice once a week for hours. Start by practicing at least four to five times a week for 10 minutes. Any additional time will, of course, be a bonus, but the importance of a regular practice schedule cannot be overemphasized. There are lots of resources on the internet to help you perfect your cast and lessons with a caster trained by Fly Fishers International, www. flyfishersinternational.org, can be invaluable. Some of the best videos I’ve found online feature master casters and instructors like Joan Wulff and Lefty Kreh. Orvis also has excellent resources. Locally, anglers have a great resource in AMI Outfitters on Anna Maria Island. They have complete outfits for beginners and rods and reels that will appeal to the most discriminating fly fisher. Visit them and try different outfits to see what fits your style and your pocketbook. Learning and applying the fundamentals of fly casting and practicing them often will help you avoid learning bad habits or help you overcome them. It’s the secret to fly fishing and a path to an exciting fishing future.

Targeting seatrout, sheepshead

CAPT. KEVIN WESSEL

The focus this week is spotted seatrout. With the consistency of our cold fronts, trout fishing continues to get stronger. Look for trout to be concentrated on the edges of grass flats. Deeper water holds temperature better but shallow water heats up quicker throughout the day. I fish channel edges with 1/4-3/8 oz. jig heads and DOA paddletails or jig heads with live shrimp. Fly anglers can get in on this action as well with intermediate sinking fly lines and Clouser minnows. Remember with both jigging artificials and stripping flies, it’s important to remain close to the bottom with shorter erratic “bumps” more than slow sweeps of the rod tip.

Next on the list is sheepshead. They will start to congregate on the nearshore reefs and inside the passes. If fishing the passes, work around the slower portions of each tide. That will help you fish the bottom more accurately. Focus on anything that has structure or rubble. Sheepshead love to pick at crustaceans clinging to rocks, pilings and really anything under

the surface. Don't feel the need to put a whole hand-picked shrimp on your hook. Break your shrimp into halves or thirds and sink them

down to the bottom. No need to get fancy. Split shot weights and a 1/0-2/0 circle hook will do the job!

CAPT. KEVIN WESSEL | SUBMITTED Judy Kellett with a trout caught on a recent trip with Capt. Kevin Wessel.

Celebrating Soupy

LESLIE LAKE | SUN

Soupy Davis (seated third from left) - the leader of the Florida Maritime Museum’s Music on the Porch series and a former longtime Cortez fisherman - celebrates his 96th birthday with friends at a jam session on Saturday at a party at his Bradenton home.

REAL ESTATE

Back to the real world

We’re well into January, so it’s time to get back to the real world and one of the real world’s less excit ing topics is homeowner’s insurance. Most of us want to go kicking and screaming away from the topic of insurance, especially in Florida which has the highest insurance premium rates in the country, but with the new year, we have some new legislation likely putting you in a much better mood.

Last month, the governor signed legislation to prevent the state’s property insurance market from collapsing under a tidal wave of lawsuits. Not only does this significantly help the state’s budget, it may also help every homeowner’s budget in Florida as well.

Previously, Florida law has allowed policyholders who want to avoid dealing directly with their insurance companies to assign their claim benefits to contractors who work with trial lawyers. The contractors would often inflate fees, resulting in rejections by insurance companies. Then

Castles in the Sand

LOUISE BOLGER

the attorneys would sue insurers to obtain what they say are legitimate charges, putting the insurers in the position to pay the attorneys’ costs if they lose a case. This resulted in insurers to be inundated with frivolous lawsuits and passed this cost on to their customers to cover legal costs and risks. Florida insurers had more than 100,000 lawsuits last year, compared to the other 49 states totaling only 24,700.

Many insurance companies have failed and left the state recently and others are also leaving the market because they can’t obtain reinsurance. The new legislation eliminates assignment of benefit and the requirement that insurers pay plaintiff attorney’s fees if they lose. It also sets up a

$1 billion state reinsurance fund to help insurers. The state-backed Citizens Property Insurance Corporation, the “insurer of last resort,” will also benefit from the legislation. Homeowners with Citizens policies will be required to accept private coverage from an insurer that offers premiums within 20% of their current Citizens policy. Overall, it could take a while, but the legislation could result in more private companies entering the Florida market with competitive rates benefiting homeowners.

None of this new legislation, however, will help homeowners who are going to war with both their homeowner’s insurance company and their flood insurance carriers in the wake of Hurricane Ian. Floods and the resulting insurance claims are not as clear cut as it may sound. The definition of flood damage as opposed to wind damage can be interpreted differently by different insurers. This is already resulting in litigation from homeowners who say their carriers aren’t honoring their claims and the

insurance carriers saying they aren’t legally obligated to cover the claims.

Trying to distinguish between flood and hurricane damage is more of a challenge than homeowners ever expected. Homeowners are stuck in the middle while insurance companies try and parse what exactly their responsibility is. Measuring how high water rose on the walls of an existing house is one thing but what if the house was built on a slab and it’s gone. Was it the flood or was it the wind?

The fact that just over 40% of the Florida homes in the two coastal counties hardest hit by Hurricane Ian are covered by flood policies doesn’t make it any easier for anyone since these homeowners may be looking to their homeowner’s insurance carriers for compensation. I guarantee a lot of this will end up in court and no one will be happy with the outcome.

Remember when living on the coast in Florida felt like you weren’t actually living in the real world? Well, the real world has invaded us, and its name is insurance.

BEACH BEAT OBITUARIES

BRADENTON BEACH

1/1, 1:19 a.m., noise complaint, 2318 Ave. B. Two officers responded to a complaint about loud noise. Upon arrival, they could hear music and noise coming from the backyard and observed six vehicles in the driveway, some of which were partially blocking the roadway. The officers saw a large group of juveniles by the pool and reported that the music was so loud the group did not hear the officers tell them to turn it down. The officers eventually made contact with an adult and the music was turned off. Previous warnings had been given to this group, so a citation was issued for noise and they were ordered to move the vehicles blocking the street.

1/3, 9:45 a.m., burglary, 600 Gulf Drive S. The officer responded to a call from a lifeguard at tower #2 in reference to a burglary. The lifeguard said the tower had been broken into and vandalized. It appeared that the storm shutter had been pushed up to allow the burglar to gain entry. The inside of the tower was messy

with items tossed on the floor and chalk writing on the walls and countertop. An inventory of items taken was made, and photographs were taken for evidence. No suspect has been identified.

HOLMES BEACH

12/27, 11:16 p.m., information report, 205 Peacock Lane. The officer responded to a vehicle accident involving a pedestrian. The caller stated that after arriving home with her boyfriend from a local bar, she opened the door to the car to get out before her boyfriend had stopped the vehicle. She said the car ran over her and she had injuries to her arm and fingers. She told police she thought it may have been intentional, but said they weren’t fighting and didn’t have a good reason why she felt that way. The officers reported the injuries being consistent with a fall, not with being run over by a car. The boyfriend said she got out of the car while it was still moving and fell, and that they had not been arguing and he was concerned about her injuries. EMS arrived and said the injuries were not serious and didn’t require medical treatment. No charges were filed.

Francis S. Cashin

Francis S. Cashin, of Holmes Beach, Florida, passed away peacefully at home on Jan. 3, 2023. Frank was born on Aug. 30, 1927, in Kingston, New York to Francis and Anna (Braun) Cashin. He grew up in Kingston, graduated Kingston High School in 1944, attended Clarkson College and served in the United States Navy in 1945-46. In 1947, he was hired by IBM in Poughkeepsie, New York. Frank served a three-year apprenticeship as a tool and die maker, three years as an instructor, followed by 37 years in various engineering management positions. In retirement, Frank had an antique business for many years in Rhinebeck, New York called the "Corner Cupboard."

Cashin is survived by son, Mark (Mary Lynn) Cashin, of Cary, North Carolina; stepchildren, Dr. Christopher (Teresa) Simek, of Lakeland, Florida, Laurie (Mark) Wegryn, of Monson, Massachusetts, Robert (Donna) Simek, of Dover, Massachusetts, John (Susan) Simek, of Kingston, New York; grandson, Mark

E. (Allison) Cashin, of Garner, North Carolina; step-grandchildren, Dr. Shawn (Rachel) Simek, of Gainesville, Florida, Jaclyn (Brian) Landers, of Melbourne, Florida, Kaitlin, Maria, Billy and Charlie Simek; and great-grandchildren, Hailey Cashin, Benjamin Landers and Anna Landers.

He was predeceased by his wife, Joan M. Palmer, in 2013; his first wife, Margaret M. (Peggy) Camp, in 1978 and his brother, Ronald Cashin, in 2007.

Additionally, Frank's family would like to acknowledge the excellent care he received from Dr. Manjesh Lingamurthy and his staff, and the compassionate care from the nurses at Blake Outpatient Center and Tidewell Hospice.

A Mass of Christian Burial was held on Jan. 6, 2023 at St. Bernard Catholic Church, 248 S. Harbor Drive, Holmes Beach, Florida.

Brown & Sons Funeral Homes & Crematory 43rd Street Chapel is in charge of the arrangements. Frank will be buried at St. Anthony's Cemetery, 167 E. Falmouth Highway, East Falmouth, Massachusetts 02536.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Women's Guild of St. Bernard Catholic Church or Tidewell Hospice, Inc., 5955 Rand Blvd. Sarasota, Florida 34235. Condolences may be made to www.brownandsonsfuneral. com.

Top real estate producers for December 2022

A PARADISE

Helen Ross – Listing & Selling

AN ISLAND PLACE REALTY

Sue Carlson – Listing

Doug Shaw - Selling

DUNCAN REAL ESTATE

April Green – Listing

Lindsey Strickland - Selling

EDGEWATER REAL ESTATE

Lynn Zemmer – Listing & Selling

FRAN MAXON

Stephanie Bell – Listing

Sharon

ISLAND REAL ESTATE

Kathleen White and Erin Leathem – Selling

LOCALS REALTY GROUP

Jessica Adair – Listing

Ryan Hackney - Selling

MICHAEL SAUNDERS

Kathy Harmon – Listing

PREMIER SOTHEBY

REMAX ALLIANCE GROUP

Christine Kourik - Listing

Cindy Quinn - Selling

SALTY MERMAID REAL ESTATE

Diana Sinisi – Listing & Selling

SATO REAL ESTATE

Jason Sato – Listing

James Wilson - Selling

WAGNER REAL ESTATE

Debra Ibasfalean – Listing

Ed Taaffe - Selling

Villars-Foraker and Tim Villars - Selling

Carolyn Collings & Roberta Tengerdy – Listing

Key Royale golfers begin new year

JAN. 2 - MODIFIED STABLEFORD

First Place - Larry Pippel, +5

Second Place - Kurt Snoufer and Tom Solosky, +4 Third Place - Brian Comer, Jeff Jump, Blake Ress, Joe Tynan and Ron Vandeman, +2

JAN. 3 - LOW NET SCORE

Flight A

First Place - Pam Lowry, 31 Second Place - Terry Taylor, 34 Third Place - Sue Wheeler, 35

Flight B

First Place - Annette Hall, 35 Second Place - Mary Lou Dreier, 36 Third Place - Jackie Gorski, 39

Flight C

First Place -Terry Westby, 31

Second Place - Lanny Davis and Barb Harrold, 33 Third Place - Gloria LaDue, 34

Gloria LaDue had a chip-in on hole #7 and Laurie Hicks had one on hole #6.

ANNOUNCEMENTS

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

TO PLAY BRIDGE Call 314324-5921 Kathleen

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.

HOSPITAL VOLUNTEERS WANTED to assist at our information desk, especially weekends. Great for teens needing volunteer hours (16yrs+). Other assignments available. Please call the Blake Volunteer Office at 941-798-6151.

COMMERCIAL SALES, RENT & LEASE

HAVE YOU BEEN thinking of selling? We NEED properties to List for SALE!!! Duplexes, multi family, small resorts? Call BIG Alan Galletto of Island Real Estate to get it SOLD 941-232-2216

COMMERCIAL LEASE - 419 pine, Anna Maria - Island Real Estate - Larry Chatt 941-345-1288

CLEANING SERVICE

TOTAL HOME SERVICES

CLEANING : Residential, Commercial, Rentals, VRBO. Professional and Reliable. Call 941-7564570 or 941-565-3931

ENDLESS SUMMER HOME SERVICES Cleaning & Maintenance. Call Angela for your home needs. 941577-3823

EMPLOYMENT

WANTED LICENSED REALTOR! Seeking real estate agent with island expertise to join our highly productive sales team! Contact us at 941-900-4974. All calls confidential

RESORT ASSISTANT MANAGER needed for island resort and vacation rentals. 32 to 36 hours per week. Experience a plus but will train. Weekends are included in schedule. Interested candidates please email islands58@aol.com to schedule an interview.

The award-winning ANNA MARIA ISLAND SUN, a weekly newspaper on Florida’s Gulf Coast, is looking for a freelance reporter/photographer to cover events on this tourism-driven 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 mailed to The Anna Maria Island Sun, P.O Box 1189, Anna Maria, FL 34216, Attention: Mike Field, publisher.

FISHING CHARTERS

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

FOR SALE

TOPPER FOR F150 Long bed. $50 or Best Offer. Call 941-705-7560.

GARAGE/YARD SALE

ESTATE/GARAGE SALE Lots of precious items for sale. January 21 & 22. Saturday and Sunday. 9am-3pm. 616 Fern St, City of Anna Maria

HOME IMPROVEMENTS

TILE! TILE! TILE! All variations of tile supplied and installed. Quality workmanship. Prompt, reliable, many Island references. Free estimates. Neil 941-726-3077

RENOVATION SPECALIST

ALL carpentry repairs, Wash Family Construction, locally owned and operated CBC 1258250 Call 941-725-0073.

KERN CONSTRUCTION

NEW Homes & Remodel. Design/Build. Since 1968. License # CBC 1261150. Call Mike Kern 941-7781115

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.

API’S DRYWALL REPAIR 15+ years experience. Free estimates. No job too small. Love to help you. Call 941-524-8067.

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.

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. Wallpaper installation/ removal. Mary Bell Winegarden 941-794-0455

DONALD PERKINS

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

REAL ESTATE HOMES & CONDOS FOR SALE

Have you been thinking of selling? We NEED properties to List for SALE!!! GULF FRONT, CANAL FRONT, BAY FRONT CONDOS or HOMES ASK for BIG Alan Galletto of Island Real Estate to get it SOLD 941-232-2216

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

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 $900 to $1200 per week redekercondosonami.com Tim 941-704-7525

VACATION

RENTAL

AVAILABLE Jan - March 2023- 2BR/1.5BA cute cottage in Holmes Beach, 1.5 blocks to the beach. Rates start at $110/nite or $4,500 for 4 weeks. Call Fran Maxon Real Estate 941778-2307.

HOME SERVICES

CONCRETE FUSION, CRACK REPAIR sidewalks/ driveways. Why fix 95% of concrete when only 5% bad? Number 1 in concrete repair. Insured. Free estimate. Call Bobby 941-374-7670.

LANDSCAPING & LAWN CARE

R. GAROFALO’S Interlocking brick pavers, driveways, patios, pool decks. Free estimates. Licensed & Insured. Call Rafael 941-778-4823 or Veronik 941-526-7941

SHELL DRIVEWAYS & LANDSCAPE. Specializing in Old Florida Seashell and Lime rock driveways and scapes. Also River Rock, Sand, Mulch, & Soil. Call Shark Mark 941-301-6067

ISLAND RESIDENT. TREE/ BUSH Trimming, removal. Sweeping, blowing, and weeding. Weekly, bimonthly or monthly schedule. Pressure washing. Call Bill Witaszek 941-307-9315

MOVING & STORAGE

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

PROFESSIONAL PAINTING SERVICES. Prompt & Reliable. Island Resident. Quality Workmanship. Interior/ Exterior. Minor repairs & carpentry. Free estimates. Bill Witaszek 941-307-9315

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

TOTAL HOME SERVICES CLEANING : Residential, Commercial, Construction, Vacation, VRBO Rentals . Also available Pressure Washing, Roof Cleaning, Paver Sealing and Windows. Call 941565-3931.

ATTN REALTORS: Are you thinking about leaving the business to get a salaried job? If you love being a Realtor & need help navigating this new market, call us today for a confidential appt. Kelly Gitt The Gitt Team AMI KW on the Water 941-799-9299

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.

ANNUAL RENTALS – AVAILABLE NOW. 2BR/1BA, furnished. $4,500/month. 3BR/2BA, unfurnished. $5,000/month. Canal front 3BR/2BA home, private pool, boat dock. AVAILABLE 2/1/23. $9,000/mo. First, Last, and Security Deposit required Call Sato Real Estate, Inc 941-7787200 or Email monica@ satorealestate.com

RENTALS: SEASONAL & VACATION

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

WINTER SEASON 2023Vacation rentals available for January, February and March. Weekly, monthly or Seasonal. Call Fran Maxon Real Estate 941-778-2307 for details or visit www. franmaxonrealestate. com.

2BR/2BA COZY COTTAGE. Tastefully furnished, close to beach, tennis courts and boat ramp in Holmes Beach. Call 941-778-2919 Renting weekly April 1 thru December 31, 2023.

TRANSPORTATION

AMI TAXI credit cards, cash, Venmo accepted. Airport: Tampa $105, Sarasota $50, St. Pete/Clearwater $105, Orlando $220. Call 941447-8372, www.amitaxi. com GOLF CART RENTALS

ANYTIME TRANSPORTATION to all Airports, Casino, etc. Tampa/St. Pete $80. Sarasota $40. Pets welcome. Very dependable. Reasonable rates. Contact Jeanne. 941-779-5095