- Named Best Florida Newspaper In Its Class -
VOL 22 No. 39
July 6, 2022
Summer storm RUSTY CHINNIS | SUN
A summer storm is suspended over Sarasota Bay on June 28.
July Fourth weekend crowds return to Anna Maria Island The July Fourth weekend saw large crowds from not only neighboring Florida counties, but visitors from around the world. BY JASON SCHAFFER SUN CORRESPONDENT | jschaffer@amisun.com
ANNA MARIA ISLAND - The Island was packed and traffic stretched for more than a mile to get onto the Island most of the weekend as everyone from international visitors to local Floridians flocked to AMI beaches to soak up the sun. Major holidays are always a big draw as visitors look to beat the summer heat. “We came from Orlando. The traffic was insane, but it’s worth it to be on one of the most beautiful beaches in the world,” said Carlos
INSIDE NEWS EDITORIAL CARTOON OUTDOORS REAL ESTATE BEACH BEAT CROSSWORD CLASSIFIEDS
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Ramirez, who was visiting Coquina Beach with his wife and four children. “It took forever to get a parking spot, and now that we have one, we’re not leaving. We brought food to grill and we’re here until the sun sets.” Ramirez was fortunate to get a parking spot. On Monday, July 4, cars were lined up bumper to bumper, with drivers hoping a parking space would become available at the beaches. After the sun set on Saturday night, visitors continued to flock to the Island for the return of the Sandbar Restaurant’s annual fireworks display after a sabbatical due to COVID-19. And the Anna Maria Island Privateers’ Fourth of July parade both delighted beachgoers and further SEE FOURTH, PAGE 31
Monkey Bus sold; new owners focusing on safety Sally Dirbas and Mitchell Gross are the new owners of the popular Monkey Bus that gives free rides to both locals and visitors to the Island. BY JASON SCHAFFER SUN CORRESPONDENT | jschaffer@amisun.com
ANNA MARIA ISLAND - Sally Dirbas and her son, Mitchell Gross, a Monkey Bus driver for more than a year, have acquired the Monkey Bus from Island Beach Monkeys LLC, operated by Roque Pastorius. Dirbas and Gross purchased the company and all of its assets on June 13, including five Monkey Bus vans, a golf cart, websites associated with the businesses, social media rights and a Cadillac Escalade the new company plans to use for rides to regional airports, the new owners said.
After two weeks of operating under the previous name, Dirbas and Gross formed a new LLC on June 27 called M and S Ad Ventures, a play on words because the Monkey Bus is not a transportation service, but an advertising service that offers transportation, Dirbas said. “We came to an agreement that both parties were happy with,” she said. “They got to retire and we have the Monkey Bus now.” Dirbas and Gross are 50/50 partners in the business, with Dirbas taking over advertising and marketing duties while Gross will handle the day to day operations of the buses and driver schedules. The mother and son operation’s mission is safety. “Safety is the number one priority for us,” Dirbas said. “In the last two weeks we have put new tires on the SEE MONKEY BUS, PAGE 31
YOUNG SURFERS
INDEPENDENCE DAY the
paddle out, pop up at surf camp. 11
Island way. 4
Anna Maria Island, Florida
PAID PARKING at Sandbar on
approval track. 3 The Island’s award-winning weekly newspaper www.amisun.com
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Jalapeno Margarita - Blanco Tequila -Pressed lime juice -Agave -Basil -Cilantro -Jalapeno (rocks)
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Planning board recommends paid parking approval Paid parking has been available in the Chiles Group-owned parking lot since February. BY JOE HENDRICKS SUN CORRESPONDENT | jhendricks@amisun.com
ANNA MARIA – Sandbar restaurant owner Ed Chiles is one step closer to having his paid public parking lot formally approved by city officials. The Anna Maria Planning and Zoning Board unanimously recommended on June 2 that city commission approval of an amended site plan would bring the existing paid parking operations into compliance with city code. The Chiles Group/Weld Inc.-owned parking lot at 9902 Gulf Drive has long served as an overflow parking lot for the Sandbar restaurant. The paid parking lot is located between Spring Lane and Magnolia Avenue. In February, the city’s code enforcement department
became aware of paid parking occurring there without the city’s approval. “This is before you today as a result of a code enforcement case that was brought forward to the property owner,” City Planner Chad Minor told the planning board. Minor said the automated payment kiosk and paid parking signs were installed in February and paid parking began without the knowledge of city staff. The kiosk also references a cell phone app. Minor said the Chiles Group was informed that the city would not pursue further code enforcement action if the ownership group submitted an amended site plan to be reviewed by the planning board and approved by the city commission. The property has been used for parking since the mid1960s and will continue to provide overflow parking for the Sandbar restaurant, while also providing paid public parking for beachgoers and those
JOE HENDRICKS | SUN
A paid parking kiosk was installed in the Sandbar parking lot in February. visiting other restaurants, businesses and destinations, he said. Minor said city staff was initially concerned that using that lot for paid public parking might eliminate some of the parking required for the restaurant operations. He said the site plan amendment process gave city staff the opportunity
to review the potential impacts of the paid parking lot and staff determined the restaurant parking requirements would still be met. Minor recommends approval of the site plan application that conforms with the city’s ordinances and comprehensive plan. Board member Barbara Zdravecky asked Minor if the
approval of the Sandbar site plan would set a precedent for other paid parking lots. Minor said any property proposing to offer paid parking would have to go through the same site plan approval process. He said he’s not aware of any other property owners currently pursuing paid parking, but they are afforded that ability through the city code. Brooks O’Hara, the director of real estate for the Chiles Group and the applicant for the amended site plan approval, attended the planning board meeting and answered questions posed by the board members. When asked how the automated paid parking is enforced, O’Hara said the Chiles Group uses the same vendor (Joshua LaRose’s Easy Parking Group) that provides the city of Sarasota’s paid parking kiosks on Main Street. O’Hara said enforcement is mainly SEE PARKING, PAGE 9
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ISLAND NEWS
IN BRIEF
Golf cart registration open If you live in Holmes Beach and you have a golf cart, the time has come to register it with the city. Registration is open online for golf carts at www. holmesbeachfl.org. While golf carts and low-speed vehicles may look the same, a low-speed vehicle is already required to be registered with the state of Florida and has a license plate. A golf cart does not have a license plate and is only allowed to be driven on Anna Maria Island in the city of Holmes Beach during daylight hours on city streets by property owners with a homesteaded primary residence in the city. The cost to register a golf cart is $10. Once the golf cart is registered, a permit will be mailed that should be immediately affixed to the golf cart. For more information, contact the city at 941-708-5800 ext. 222.
Visit our website, www.amisun.com. Scan this code with your smartphone to go there.
JULY 6, 2022
Independence Day, Island-style
The Anna Maria Island Privateers’ Fourth of July parade brought festive music, loud bangs from pirate guns aboard the Skullywag and water battles to paradegoers on Gulf and Marina drives on July 4. The parade began at Coquina Beach in Bradenton Beach and ended at Pine Avenue in Anna Maria.
Learn CPR with WMFR The staff at West Manatee Fire Rescue wants to make sure people are as prepared as possible in case of an emergency. Hands-only CPR classes begin Saturday, Aug. 6 from 9-11 a.m. and continue on the first Saturday of each month at the district’s administration building at 701 63rd St. W. in Bradenton. The free classes are limited to 10 people. Participants will not receive a CPR certification by taking the class. To register, call WMFR at 941-7611555.
LESLIE LAKE | SUN
LESLIE LAKE | SUN
Light agenda for Thursday’s meeting Following the holiday weekend, the Bradenton Beach City Commission has a light agenda for its Thursday, July 7 meeting. The only new business listed on the meeting agenda pertains to the donation of a memorial bench. Thursday’s meeting will begin at 6 p.m. The city commission will hold its first 2022-23 budget work meeting on Tuesday, July 12 at 9 a.m.
KRISTIN SWAIN | SUN
No swim advisory for Palma Sola South A no swim advisory remains in effect for the south side of Palma Sola Bay, located along Manatee Avenue West. The advisory indicates that water contact may pose an increased risk of infectious disease. Officials at the Florida Department of Health in Manatee County report that test results from water samples taken at Palma Sola South on June 27 and June 29 showed elevated levels of enterococci, or fecal, bacteria. The advisory will be in effect until the water meets Environmental Protection Agency safety guidelines. The Healthy Beaches Monitoring Program provides residents with up-to-date information about water quality to protect the health of Manatee County beachgoers. For more information, call 941-714-7593.
DOREEN FLYNN | SUBMITTED
KRISTIN SWAIN | SUN
Drift In mascot flies her patriotic colors The Drift In’s well-known mannequin, “Mannie,” was patriotically attired during the July 4 holiday weekend. For many years now, Drift In manager Doreen Flynn has guided Mannie’s everchanging fashion statements.
KRISTIN SWAIN | SUN
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Eastern end of Greer Island closed to boaters LONGBOAT KEY - The Greer Island beach east of the Longboat Pass Bridge is closed for about three weeks during a dredging project, then will open for recreational use – except to motorboats, according to an announcement posted on the town's website. The temporary beach closure is due to an emergency dredge project to provide access to the lagoon area of Greer Island, also known as Beer Can Island. The project is in the same area of Greer Island that the town commission recently decided to permanently close to boaters. Officials approved the permanent closure to protect people who swim and lounge in the shallow waters off Greer Island from boaters. After the dredging project is completed, buoys will be placed to mark the areas where motorboats
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Commissioners move to prohibit vehicle rentals BY KRISTIN SWAIN SUN STAFF WRITER | kswain@amisun.com
CINDY LANE | SUN
The western portion of Greer Island, above left, will remain open to boaters, while the eastern portion (in yellow) is closed. are prohibited. "These areas will then be limited to beachgoers, waders,
kayakers, paddleboarders and other non-motorized vessels,” according to the announcement.
HOLMES BEACH – City commissioners are moving forward with an amended ordinance prohibiting vehicle rentals in the C-3 commercial district. If the ordinance passes two public hearings and votes by commissioners, no new vehicle rental businesses will be allowed to open brick-andmortar shops in the city. Existing vehicle rental businesses will not be affected by the change, should it pass, but if any existing business attempts to change locations or expand, it may not be allowed, City Attorney Erica Augello said. The proposed ordinance also does not affect any business located outside of Holmes Beach that brings vehicles into the city. Currently, vehicle rentals are allowed by special exception in the commercial district. Under the city’s land development code, golf carts and low-speed vehicles are considered vehicles/automobiles. Mayor Judy Titsworth also instructed staff to do an inventory of which businesses in the city have a valid business tax receipt allowing for vehicle rentals and how many vehicles each business is allowed to have.
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OPINION
The Anna Maria Island Sun newspaper 3909 East Bay Drive, Suite 210, Holmes Beach, FL, 34217 Phone: (941) 778-3986 email: news@amisun.com | ads@amisun.com | classifieds@amisun.com
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The Anna Maria Island Sun Staff Owner/CEO Mike Field Editor Cindy Lane General Manager Bob Alexander Reporters/Photographers Joe Hendricks Jason Schaffer Kristin Swain Columnists Louise Bolger Rusty Chinnis Contributors Steve Borggren Captain Rick Grassett Monica Simpson Tom Vaught Captain Dave White Layout Ricardo Fonseca Digital Editor Kristin Swain Advertising Director Shona Otto Advertising Assistant Pamela Lee Classifieds Bob Alexander Graphics Elaine Stroili Ricardo Fonseca Distribution Bob Alexander Connor Field Tony McNulty Brian Smith Accounting Leslie Ketchum Co-founding publishers Mike Field Maggie McGinley Field Family-owned since 2000
LETTERS TO THE EDITOR
Bullying the theme of some in GOP Trump bullied and tried to intimidate election officials and the Department of Justice to perpetuate his big lie and stay in office.
DeSantis bullies legislators to pass gerrymandered districts, antiwomen’s rights, voter suppression, election police and anti-masking in schools. Commissioner Van Ostenbridge bullies and threatens Holmes Beach officials to build a parking garage. Why doesn’t the commis-
sioner promote Coquina Beach with plenty of parking, tree shade and a free trolley service? Stop bullying and work with local officials and all residents and not just their favored contributors. Barbara Drake Bradenton
Drop us a line Got an opinion, a complaint or a compliment? Is there something you need to get off your chest? Send us a letter to the editor and have your say. There are a couple of ways to do it. The easiest and most direct is to email The Sun at news@amisun.com. Remember to put Letter to the Editor in the subject field. Or you can snail-mail a letter to us at The Anna Maria Island Sun,
P.O. Box 1189, Anna Maria, FL 34216. Letters should be kept to 300 words or less and must contain your name and the city in which you reside. Personal attacks and obscene language will not be printed. The Sun reserves the right to edit letters for length or content.
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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. July 13, 9 a.m. – Planning and Zoning board meeting July 14, 2 p.m. – City Commission meeting July 26, 10 a.m. – Special Magistrate hearing
BRADENTON BEACH
107 GULF DRIVE N. FOR INFORMATION, CALL 941-778-1005
Please visit www.cityofbradentonbeach.com or contact city hall for more information. July 6, 9:30 a.m. – Community Redevelopment Agency meeting July 7, 6 p.m. – City Commission meeting July 12, 9 a.m. – City Commission budget work meeting July 13, 1 p.m. – Department head meeting July 21, noon – City Commission meeting
HOLMES BEACH
5801 MARINA DRIVE FOR INFORMATION, CALL 941-708-5800
Please visit www.holmesbeachfl.org or contact city hall for more information. July 6, 10 a.m. – Parks and Beautification Committee meeting
July 12, 9 a.m. – City Commission budget work session July 13, 5 p.m. – Planning Commission meeting July 14, 9 a.m. – Clean Water AdHoc Committee meeting July 20, 5 p.m. – Setting of Maximum Millage Rate public hearing with City Commission regular meeting and work session to follow July 26, 10 a.m. – Code Compliance special magistrate hearing
ISLAND-WIDE
July 19, 6 p.m. – West Manatee Fire Rescue board meeting, administration building, 701 63rd St. W., Bradenton EVENTS
WEDNESDAY, JULY 6
Beach market, Coquina Beach, 2650 Gulf Drive S., Bradenton Beach, 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.
THURSDAY, JULY 7
Oceans of pottery painting, 5701 Marina Drive, Holmes Beach, 10 a.m. Sunshine Stitchers Knit and Crochet, Island Branch Library, 5701 Marina Drive, Holmes Beach, 2 p.m. Thursdays in Paradise Stroll featuring local art, music and food, Bridge Street, Bradenton Beach, 5-8 p.m.
FRIDAY, JULY 8
Beach market, Coquina Beach, 2650 Gulf Drive S., Bradenton Beach, 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Forty Carrots, Island Branch Library, 5701 Marina Drive, Holmes Beach, 10 a.m. Mahjong Club, experienced players, Island Branch Library, 5701 Marina Drive, Holmes Beach, 11:30 a.m.
SATURDAY, JULY 9
Robinson Runners, Robinson Preserve, 1704 99th St. N.W., Bradenton, 7 a.m. Saturday mornings at the NEST, Robinson Preserve Mosaic Nest, 840 Ninth Ave. N.W., Bradenton, 9 a.m. to noon Origami Club, Island Branch Library, 5701 Marina Drive, Holmes Beach, 10 a.m. Music on the Porch, Florida Maritime Museum, 4415 119th St. W., Cortez, 2-4 p.m.
TUESDAY, JULY 12
Family story time, Island Branch Library, 5701 Marina Drive, Holmes Beach, 10 a.m. Mahjong Club, beginners, Island Branch Library, 5701 Marina Drive, Holmes Beach, 11:30 a.m. Rotary Club of Anna Maria Island meeting, Slicker’s Eatery, 12012
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Cortez Road W., Bradenton, 11:30 a.m. Tech Help, Island Branch Library, 5701 Marina Drive, Holmes Beach, 2-3:30 p.m.
WEDNESDAY, JULY 13
Beach market, Coquina Beach, 2650 Gulf Drive S., Bradenton Beach, 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Island Time Book Club: “Giver of Stars” by Jojo Moyes, Island Branch Library, 5701 Marina Drive, Holmes Beach, 6:30 p.m.
THURSDAY, JULY 14
Bits and Pieces Theater Presents Rumpelstiltskin, Island Branch Library, 5701 Marina Drive, Holmes Beach, 10 a.m. AMI Chamber member’s luncheon, Harry’s Grill, 9903 Gulf Drive, Anna Maria, 11:30 a.m., $18 for members or $30 for potential members. Reserve to 941-778-1541 Sunshine Stitchers knit and crochet, Island Branch Library, 5701 Marina Drive, Holmes Beach, 2 p.m. Thursdays in Paradise Stroll featuring local art, music and food, Bridge Street, Bradenton Beach, 5-8 p.m.
FRIDAY, JULY 15
Beach market, Coquina Beach,
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2650 Gulf Drive S., Bradenton Beach, 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Forty Carrots, Island Branch Library, 5701 Marina Drive, Holmes Beach, 10 a.m. Mahjong Club – Experienced Players, Island Branch Library, 5701 Marina Drive, Holmes Beach, 11:30 a.m.
SATURDAY, JULY 16
Robinson Runners, Robinson Preserve, 1704 99th St. N.W., Bradenton, 7 a.m. Saturday mornings at the NEST, Robinson Preserve Mosaic Nest, 840 Ninth Ave. N.W., Bradenton, 9 a.m. to noon. Meditation, Island Branch Library, 5701 Marina Drive, Holmes Beach, 11 a.m.
TUESDAY, JULY 19
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. Mahjong for Beginners, Island Branch Library, 5701 Marina Drive, Holmes Beach, 11:30 a.m. One-on-one tech help, Island Branch Library, 5701 Marina Drive, Holmes Beach, 2-3:30 p.m.
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JULY 6, 2022
Coquina Beach parking lot improvements continue The Phase II drainage and paving improvements are a continuation of the previously completed Phase I parking lot improvements. BY JOE HENDRICKS SUN CORRESPONDENT | jhendricks@amisun.com
BRADENTON BEACH – Beachgoers will be vying for limited parking spaces at Coquina Beach all summer with the next phase of drainage and parking lot improvements expected to be completed no sooner than October. As was the case with Phase I improvements, previously completed at the south end of the parking lot, the county has contracted the Woodruff & Sons construction firm to install the Phase II drainage elements and pervious concrete parking spaces in the central and northern portions of the Coquina Beach Parking lot. The pervious concrete previously installed at the south end of the parking lot allows rainwater to
JOE HENDRICKS | SUN
The previously installed pervious concrete parking spaces, above, allow water to drain through them. The central portion of the Coquina Beach parking lot, right, remains closed, which significantly reduces the number of parking spaces available to beachgoers. drain through it and into the improved drainage system below. According to the updated project schedule provided by Manatee County, miscellaneous cleanup and demolition work was scheduled to take place in the central portion of the Coquina Beach parking lot through early this month, followed by the installation of new curbs and
new underdrains scheduled to be completed by early September, with the installation of the pervious concrete parking surfaces scheduled for the same time frame. The pavement striping and parking space wheel stops are scheduled to be installed in October, with the currently closed central portion of the beach parking lot to then be
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reopened to the public. Around that same time in October, clean up and demolition work is scheduled to begin at the north end of the parking lot where similar drainage and parking improvements will be made. The anticipated completion date and reopening of the north parking area is anticipated in March 2023.
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PARKING: Board recommends paid parking approval FROM PAGE 3
2022
voluntary, but if a violation occurs, a notice can be placed on the offending vehicle. If the violation continues, a wheel lock or windshield bar can be placed on the vehicle. “We haven’t had to do that,” O’Hara said. When asked about the overnight parking and RV parking, O’Hara said the parked vehicles are usually gone by 10 p.m. and he’s not aware of any overnight parking or RV parking taking place in that lot. He said the parking spaces are not large enough to accommodate RV parking and the lot could be closed off after hours if needed. Minor said the city code includes provisions that address overnight parking and RV parking. When asked why the Sandbar ownership group wasn’t issued a code
enforcement violation citation, Minor said, “Our goal is to work for compliance.” O’Hara said the parking lot in question has historically been used for paid parking, but with a parking lot attendant collecting cash payments. “For years, this was out of compliance then?” board member Bob Carter asked. Mayor Dan Murphy attended the meeting and provided some historical context on the past use of the parking lot. Murphy said Sandbar patrons used to pay $25 when parking there, but in exchange received a $25 voucher to use at the restaurant. Murphy said the city did not consider that to be paid parking, but the installation of an automated payment kiosk signified a switch from restaurant customer parking to paid public parking. The mayor said O’Hara’s assertion that paid parking was previously allowed in that parking lot was not accurate. “The reason we let you do what you do is because you had a voucher system for eating at your restaurant. That made it customer parking,” Murphy said. The amended site plan will now be presented to the city commission for final approval.
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Campaign for Ukraine continues
JULY 6, 2022
Roser Church
“...a beautiful place to explore your faith...”
10:00 AM in the Sanctuary Nursery • Children’s Church
BY JASON SCHAFFER
ONLINE • Watch LIVE or LATER
SUN CORRESPONDENT | jschaffer@amisun.com
The Rotary Club of Anna Maria Island and Bob Slicker, owner of Slicker’s Eatery in Cortez, continue to raise funds for Ukraine. The Concert for Peace on June 12 raised over $50,000; Rotary Club of Anna Maria Island also sent $5,000, which was matched by a Rotary District in New Hampshire (7870) for a total of $10,000; and the Rotary Club of AMI and Slicker's Eatery Partnership released another $10,000 to President Wojtek Jankowski of the Rotary Club of Czestochowa, Poland. Polish Rotarians are using the funds for a make-shift hospital, a refugee center for families and making regular supply runs to soldiers on the battlefield to get them food, medical supplies and clean clothing. Slicker is currently in Eastern Europe witnessing firsthand the work being done on the ground. He is set to return July 7. “While in Poland, Bob is being taken care of by our Rotarian friends in Czestochowa so we are comfortable he is in good hands,” said Rotary Club of AMI President James McDaniel in a press release. “He will be accompanied by an international grad student affiliated with Rotary who will be filming his visit and documenting the conversations he has with the leaders and the people he
SUNDAY WORSHIP 8:30 AM in the Chapel
RoserChurch.com
Text ROSER to 22828 to receive the weekly eBulletin The CHAPEL is open during office hours for prayer and meditation 941-778-0414 • 512 Pine Ave, Anna Maria • FOLLOW us on Facebook @RoserChurch
SUBMITTED
Soldiers stand guard over supplies sent to the people of Ukraine in cooperation with Rotary Clubs organized by Bob Slicker and Rotary Club of Anna Maria Island. meets. We feel this will help us explain the strong connection that Rotary is providing for our efforts to provide funding toward the cause. It also helps us bring awareness to this very trying situation that our world neighbors are experiencing and the importance of our work to this small area of the much greater area affected by this war.” McDaniel said that when Slicker returns, the next fundraising event, slated to take place in August, will be announced.
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Surfers find their sweet spot at surf camp The West Coast Surf Shop surf camp is on this month in the waters off Holmes Beach, teaching groms the basics of paddling out and popping up. Everyone gets a surf name and plenty of chances to show off their stuff.
ANNE YARBROUGH | SUN
Mini Dolphin surfs in a crouch with instructor Juliette Greene.
ANNE YARBROUGH | SUN
H Money steps off the board after a swell ride.
ANNE YARBROUGH | SUN
Snook catches a wave.
ANNE YARBROUGH | SUN
Iron Man takes a stand.
ANNE YARBROUGH | SUN
Darth Vader with instructor Spencer Carper.
ANNE YARBROUGH | SUN
Rolling Wave (pink) tandem surfs with Mini Dolphin (blue).
5346 Gulf Drive, Holmes Beach (941) 778-5788 | hurricanehanks.com
ANNE YARBROUGH | SUN
Rolling Wave gets to her feet.
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JULY 6, 2022
CRA members review proposed budget The CRA’s top priorities are the completion of the floating dock expansion project and the continued undergrounding of utility lines. BY JOE HENDRICKS SUN CORRESPONDENT | jhendricks@amisun.com
BRADENTON BEACH – The city’s Community Redevelopment Agency (CRA) will operate with a tight budget during the 2022-23 fiscal year that begins Oct. 1. The CRA operates with its own annual budget, separate from the annual general fund budget adopted by the city commission. At the CRA’s first budget work meeting on June 30, City Treasurer Shayne Thompson said much of the coming year’s CRA budget is influenced by budgeting decisions and project priorities established in past years. “You kind of preordained this year’s budget on actions you took in the past,” Thompson told the board. The CRA’s top priorities remain the expansion of the floating dock next to the Bridge Street Pier and the continued undergrounding of utility lines in the
JOE HENDRICKS | SUN
The completion of the floating dock expansion project remains a top priority for the CRA. CRA district that extends from the Cortez Bridge to the southernmost property lines along Fifth Street South. According to Thompson, the CRA expects to receive $582,990 in property tax revenues during the 2022-23 fiscal year, up from $537,652 in property tax revenues during the current 2021-22 fiscal year.
The CRA will also receive a $138,434 transfer from the city’s general fund as the city’s annual required contribution to the CRA – an increase from the $104,489 contribution the city made during the current 2021-22 fiscal year. With an additional $18,258 in revenues carried over from the current fiscal year budget, the CRA anticipates having $742,023 to
spend during the coming fiscal year. The proposed budget includes $450,000 to be added to the $550,000 allocated in the 2021-22 fiscal year budget for the CRA’s estimated $1 million undergrounding project to be pursued during the 202223 fiscal year. That project calls for the undergrounding of utility lines along Fourth Street South, Fifth Street South and a portion of Gulf Drive. The proposed budget does not include the $568,000 previously allocated for the dock expansion and dinghy dock replacement project. The dock expansion project that will include the installation of perpendicular finger docks is currently being delayed by a permitting issue. If the dock expansion project is completed during the current fiscal year, the CRA will have $741,746 to spend in the coming fiscal year. If the dock project is not completed by Sept. 30, the $568,000 in unspent funds will be carried over into the 2022-23 budget. The proposed budget includes $77,281 for policing services in the CRA district and an additional $6,365 for FICA taxes. That $83,646 will fund 30 hours per week of street patrols in SEE CRA, PAGE 14
JULY 6, 2022
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AMI Chamber to host luncheon at Harry’s Grill The Anna Maria Island Chamber of Commerce will host a luncheon on Thursday, July 14 at Harry’s Grill in Anna Maria from 11:30 a.m. to 1 p.m. Mingle with chamber members and find out what the chamber has to offer. An RSVP is required by Tuesday, July 12. Email becky@ amichamber.org or call 941-778-1541 to reserve a space, and don’t forget to bring business cards and a raffle prize to donate. Any business that provides a raffle prize will have their business announced during the giveaway.
Blooms by the Beach marks three years On July 1, 2019, Felica Goett made her dream of opening a flower shop on Anna Maria Island a reality. Now she is celebrating three years of making and delivering one-of-a-kind floral designs, dish gardens, gourmet gift baskets and more at Blooms By The Beach, 2501 Gulf Drive N., Bradenton Beach. Hours are Tuesday through Friday from 9:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. and Saturday from 9:30 a.m. to 2 p.m. For more information, visit www.bloomsbythebeach.com or call 941-778-2555.
Travel to the jungle with Senior Adventures The Senior Adventures group is getting ready to take a trip to the jungle and Anna Maria Island seniors are invited to come along. The group is leaving The Center of Anna Maria Island on Wednesday, July 13 at 10 a.m. for a trip to Jungle Gardens in Sarasota. The trip is limited to 14 people, so pre-registration is required. The cost for transportation is $5, not including a ticket to Jungle Gardens. To reserve a spot, contact The Center at 941-778-1908.
Find support at The Center SMART Family and Friends Recovery Network is hosting meetings at The Center of Anna Maria Island beginning this month. Meetings are available to provide support and a safe space to talk for the friends and families of loved ones struggling with substance abuse. Meetings will be held on the first and third Monday of each month from 6-7:30 p.m. Due to the July Fourth holiday, the first meeting will be held on Wednesday, July 6. The free meetings will be at The Center, 407 Magnolia Ave. in Anna Maria.
‛S YOUR COMFORT ZONE? WHERE
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THE SUN
Revised alcohol ordinance slated for commission approval The amended ordinance addresses alcohol consumption at city-owned locations including The Center of Anna Maria Island and the Anna Maria Island Historical Museum. BY JOE HENDRICKS SUN CORRESPONDENT | jhendricks@amisun.com
ANNA MARIA – The city’s revised alcohol ordinance is scheduled for final city commission adoption on Thursday, July 14 at 2 p.m. Commissioners previously discussed the amended ordinance on first reading and sent it to the Planning and Zoning Board for additional review on June 27, which recommended approval of Ordinance 22-901 by a 4-1 vote. Board member David Haddox cast the lone opposition vote to the board recommendation. Haddox’s opposition stemmed from his concerns that the city’s definition of liquor does not exclude prescription and nonprescription medications that use
ethyl alcohol or ethanol as solvents. City Attorney Becky Vose said she did not share Haddox’s concerns about that definition. Some changes made to the ordinance date back to 2020, when a previous version of the ordinance was adopted and later vetoed by Mayor Dan Murphy because it contained problematic language that would have prohibited men from going shirtless while at an establishment that serves alcohol. During the recent planning board meeting, City Planner Chad Minor said the amended ordinance contains an updated definition of a commercial establishment, an updated definition of liquor, added the definition of a package store and more. The ordinance contains additional language pertaining to alcohol consumption at city-owned locations that include The Center of Anna Maria Island, The Island Players theater and the Anna Maria Island Historical Museum. The ordinance provides these locations with the discretion to allow beer and wine to be served and consumed, but a spe-
cial event permit is needed to serve liquor at these locations. According to the ordinance, all alcoholic beverage establishments shall be located within the commercial (C-1) and/or residential-officeretail (ROR) zoned areas. Section 114-508 of the amended ordinance says, “The operator of any restaurant which desires to sell or dispense beer and wine and/or other alcoholic beverages shall first apply for and receive a special use permit.” A special use permit for alcohol sales must be approved by the city commission; the fee for that permit is $250. The ordinance notes that each special use permit must then be renewed annually by the city clerk. Any commercial establishment that wishes to sell liquor for offpremise consumption must also apply for and receive a city commission-approved special use permit, and the ordinance states no special use permit shall be granted to a commercial establishment located within one-half mile of any other commercial establishment, not including restaurants, that sell liquor.
JULY 6, 2022
CRA: Members review proposed budget FROM PAGE 12
the CRA district, mainly along Bridge Street, and 10 hours per week of police boat patrols in the unmanaged anchorage south of the pier. At the request of Police Chief John Cosby, the hourly rate paid to those officers will increase from $35 to $40 per hour. The proposed budget includes $40,000 for the annual holiday decorations on and around Bridge Street and $52,000 for the continuation of the CRA’s Old Town Tram parking shuttle program. At the request of CRA member and Mayor John Chappie, the CRA members approved an additional $10,000 to purchase holiday banners to place on the Bridge Street light poles. Chappie wants some of that $10,000 used to purchase banners that commemorate the 100-year anniversary of Bridge Street. When asked if the CRA has a reserve fund, Thompson said, “In the past, the CRA had a cushion because it amassed a lot of money and wasn’t working on projects to utilize the funds.” Thompson noted the CRA has now come to the point where a significant portion of those previously amassed funds has been spent. Thompson urged CRA members to be cost-conscious in term of projects, staying at or under budget and ensuring that project oversight and consulting costs are factored into the estimated costs for each specific project. CRA Chair Ralph Cole noted the intent of a CRA, as set forth by state law, is to spend its annual revenues on projects that benefit the CRA district, which he feels the CRA has done well in recent years.
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Hunters Point dock permit hearing to continue Boaters who use the canals bordering Hunters Point may want to watch a hearing about the developer’s permit to build 49 new docks. BY JOE HENDRICKS SUN CORRESPONDENT | jhendricks@amisun.com
CORTEZ – The public can watch the next Hunters Point Resort & Marina dock permit challenge hearing on Zoom, scheduled for Tuesday, Aug. 16 at 9:30 a.m. through Thursday, Aug. 18 at the Southwest Florida Water Management District (SWFWMD) office in Tampa. Additional hearing dates, if needed, are scheduled for Sept. 1-2 at 9:30 a.m. All hearing dates will have a Zoom conference option that anyone can access using the meeting ID 2965656070 and the meeting passcode 133626. The administrative hearing pertains to an administrative challenge the owners of the nearby Cortez Village Marina, MHC Cortez Village LLC, filed against developer Marshall Gobuty’s Cortez Road Investments & Finance Inc. ownership group and SWFWMD. Cortez Village Marina seeks the revoca-
MANATEE COUNTY PROPERTY APPRAISER | SUBMITTED
The area highlighted in blue illustrates the boundaries of the man-made canal privately owned by the Hunters Point ownership group. tion or modification of the environmental resource permit that SWFWMD issued to Gobuty and his development team in 2021. That permit allows for the construction of 49 docks along the canal privately owned by Gobuty and Cortez Road Investments. The canal borders the Hunters Point property located along Cortez Road West on three sides. Administrative law judge Bruce Culpepper is presiding over the hearing, which began on June 14-15. Culpepper said the
sole intent of the hearing is to determine whether the water district properly issued the environmental resource permit that allows the Hunters Point docks to be built.
NAVIGATION RIGHTS
The separate but related issue of any existing and ongoing riparian rights held by upland property owners, including the Cortez Village Marina, is a matter to be decided in the 12th Judicial Circuit Court in Manatee County.
The Hunters Point ownership group has filed a riparian rights-related lawsuit against the Cortez Village Marina that seeks an injunction to prevent the marina and its clients from using the Hunters Point canal. Judge Charles Sniffen has been assigned to the case. On June 6, an attorney representing the Cortez Village Marina filed a response that, among other things, contends the navigable canal has been used for more than 25 years by the marina, the marina’s predecessors and those who own homes along the canal. A counterclaim filed by Gobuty’s attorney states: “MHC (Cortez Village Marina) refers to the canal as the ‘navigable canal.’ By calling the waterbody the ‘navigable canal,’ MHC implies that the canal is navigable under the law and legally open to public use. However, this is not the case.” The Hunters Point ownership group also recently filed a civil lawsuit to compel eight property owners to remove their docks, boat lifts and other structures located in the Hunters Point canal. Judge Edward Nicholas has been assigned to this case and the attorney or attorneys representing the defendants named in this lawsuit had not filed any responses as of Friday, July 1. No hearing dates have been scheduled for either of the civil lawsuits.
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Our extraordinary dogs transform lives. Beyond the Dark invites you to experience this transformation and connect with our mission. You’ll engage your senses while immersing into the challenges of people with vision loss and veterans with disabilities. You’ll meet graduates of our programs and hear their triumphant stories. You’ll witness our highly trained guide dogs and service dogs at work, and see the powerful difference they make. And you’ll come away with a greater connection to the human-dog teams who journey beyond the dark.
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JULY 6, 2022
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A beach raker, left, helps keep the beaches clean and free of trash, while the skimmer boat, right, is an effective tool in removing invasive aquatic vegetation and cleaning up dead fish.
County sets new standard in beach cleanliness A combination of technology and a skilled, dedicated crew is making area beaches cleaner than ever. BY JASON SCHAFFER
SUN CORRESPONDENT | jschaffer@amisun.com
ANNA MARIA ISLAND – Manatee County Parks Operations Manager Carmine DeMilio thanked the Manatee County Tourist Development Council (TDC) at its June 23 meeting for funding to keep beaches and waterways clean. “People come from all over the world to visit, and that’s a good thing, but with that comes a lot of trash,” DeMilio said. “On a holiday weekend, we pick up an average of 45,000 pounds of trash.” The funds allowed his department to hire new internal staff to replace a contracted custodial vendor that was not meeting their customer service and cleanliness standards, he said. The funds also paid for tools and equipment to combat vandalism. DeMilio said serious vandalism, including tearing sinks off restroom walls and destroying toilets, is an unfortunate scenario his staff often faces, but they are now better equipped to respond quickly. DeMilio said his department is receiving emails regularly thanking them for clean restrooms and the lack of trash and litter on the beach and in
public picnic areas and trails. In addition, the funding paid for an environmental skimmer boat 11 feet long with a loader bucket and an 8-foot boom cutter, allowing for productive, efficient and effective removal of vegetation and dead fish on the water, he told the council. “We utilize our three beach rakes to keep our beaches clean, but now not only are we on land, but we’re going by sea,” DeMilio said. “These little skimmer boats will not only help us with seaweed and debris in our ponds, but the same skimmer can also scoop up dead fish should we have another red tide.” TDC member Ed Chiles asked DeMilio how the seaweed and other debris is disposed of, to which he replied that it is taken to shore, then loaded into trucks with a device known as a grappling loader. The debris is then hauled away like any other waste product. DeMilio said the funding has contributed to: • Implementation of a new, higher standard of cleanliness, • Better customer service to all visitors, • Timely response to safety concerns, repairs and damage, • Implementing a lost and found on the county website, and • Decreased restroom and cleanup complaints by 90%.
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JULY 6, 2022
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OUTDOORS
JULY 6, 2022
Guiding principals Reel Time RUSTY CHINNIS
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have always been a great fan of fishing guides. They can provide a terrific initiation to the local waters and are indispensable when angling new destinations. Not only do you get the benefit of their extensive knowledge of where to find fish, but you’ll get a lesson in the natural world as a bonus. Most guides not only take you to the action, but they will show you some of the area’s most beautiful natural areas. I know many experienced anglers who regularly fish with guides. They know that there is no substitute for the local knowledge gained from being on the water on a regular basis. They also appreciate the convenience of stepping on a boat, being taken to the fish, having the guide fillet fish if they decide to keep any, and not having to clean the boat. While many people have the mistaken impression that guiding is an easy job, few people really appreciate the rigors of long days on the water. For anglers, an eight-hour day on the water translates into 10 or more hours for the guide. Not only do guides provide experiences that last a lifetime, many work tirelessly to protect the resources that we all too often take for granted. My first introduction to guiding came in the 1980s when I was new to area waters. A friend invited me to fish
RUSTY CHINNIS | SUN
Capt. Scott Moore holds one of the snook that Adam Fernandez’s sons, AJ and Henry, landed on a recent trip. with Holmes Beach guide Capt. Scott Moore. That first trip was a revelation to an angler new to the Gulf coast waters. Moore amazed us with his uncanny ability to find fish. He would literally say, “We’ll start over here and catch a trout, then move to that point and find snook and finally fish that mangrove edge for redfish.” And that’s just what we did. He introduced me to snook fishing, taught me lessons that have made me a better angler, and, most importantly, helped me appreciate the
need to protect our marine resources. I learned a lot of what I know fishing with guides, and they have saved me countless hours of frustration with their “tricks of the trade.” I learned how to remove a backlash from a spinning reel, how to find fish by looking for subtle signs, how to remove a hook from my hand, how to throw a cast net and so much more. Guides are not just anglers, but trained specialists that can help you find and catch fish on your own, if you listen and learn.
If you haven’t had the pleasure of a day on the water with one of the many professional guides in our area, I would encourage you to give it a try. When you do the math, it’s one of the wisest investments you can make for your fishing future. It’s also a great way to spend a day with friends and family and introduce kids to “catching.” You’ll find information on local guides in the pages of The Sun every week, and I’ll share my experiences with the guides I still fish with regularly.
JULY 6, 2022
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CLIFF ONDERCIN | SUBMITTED
Dennis Ondercin jumps a tarpon and Mason Ondercin, of Sarasota, fights a tarpon to the boat while fishing the coastal Gulf with Capt. Rick Grassett recently.
Tarpon still jumping in Gulf CAPT. RICK GRASSETT
Anglers fishing with me out of CB’s Saltwater Outfitters on Siesta Key had good action catching and releasing tarpon in the coastal Gulf recently. A couple of Sarasota Bay trips also produced a few trout and bluefish on Clouser flies. Fly anglers had good action with tarpon, hooking and jumping several. Clark Keator, of Orlando, fly fished with me, jumping two tarpon and fighting one to the boat. Mike Storey, of Bradenton, also had some tarpon action, jumping one on a fly. Dennis, Cliff and Mason Ondercin, of Sarasota, also tarpon fished a couple of days with me. They had good action, jumping several tarpon and fighting one to the boat on live crabs with spinning tackle. They also caught and released a bonus cobia that was sight-fished off the back of a spotted eagle ray with a DOA Shrimp - a great job, not bad for bycatch! Tarpon fishing should be a good option in the coastal Gulf depending on conditions. Look for snook in the surf and reds and larger trout in shallow water. Fishing deep grass flats of Sarasota Bay is a usually a good choice for action
RICK GRASSETT | SUBMITTED
Bill Morrison, of Anna Maria, with a Sarasota Bay bluefish caught on a Clouser fly while fishing with Capt. Rick Grassett recently. with a variety of species including trout, pompano, blues and more. Our natural resources are under constant pressure from red tides fueled by industrial, agricultural
and residential runoff, toxic spills and discharges, freezes, increasing fishing pressure and habitat loss and degradation. Please limit your kill, don’t kill your limit!
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TURTLE TIPS During sea turtle season, May 1 – Oct. 31, follow these tips to help turtles: • Turn off lights visible from the beach and close blinds from sundown to sunrise; lights confuse nesting sea turtles and may cause them to go back to sea and drop their eggs in the water, where they won’t hatch. Light can also attract hatchlings away from the water. • Don’t use flashlights, lanterns or camera flashes on the beach at night. • Remove all beach chairs and other objects from the sand from sundown to sunrise; they can deter sea turtles from nesting and disorient hatchlings.
• Fill in the holes you dig in the sand before leaving the beach; they can trap nesting and hatching sea turtles, which cannot live long out of the water. To report large holes or other turtle obstacles: - City of Anna Maria code enforcement — 941-708-6130, ext. 139 or ext. 129. - City of Bradenton Beach code enforcement — 941-778-1005, ext. 280. - City of Holmes Beach code enforcement — 941-778-0331, ext. 260. • Level sandcastles before leaving the beach; they can block hatchlings from the water. • Don’t use balloons, wish lanterns or fireworks; they litter the beach and Gulf, and turtles can ingest the debris. • Do not trim trees and plants that shield the beach from lights.
• Never touch a sea turtle; it’s the law. If you see people disturbing turtles, call the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission’s Wildlife Alert hotline at 888-404-FWCC (3922). Source: Anna Maria Island Turtle Watch and Shorebird Monitoring
NESTING NEWS Turtle nests laid: 379 (Record: 544 in 2019) False crawls: 379 (Record: 831 in 2010) Source: Anna Maria Island Turtle Watch and Shorebird Monitoring
JULY 6, 2022
Adopt a turtle nest Support Anna Maria Island Turtle Watch and Shorebird Monitoring and adopt a sea turtle nest that has been laid on the beaches of Anna Maria Island. For a tax deductible $125 donation, a custom plaque will be placed on each adopted nest. To sign up, visit www.islandturtlewatch.com. For more than 30 years, Turtle Watch has coordinated conservation efforts for 12 miles of Manatee County shoreline, monitoring 7,339 turtle activities, protecting 4,454 nests and 301,694 turtle eggs and recording 271,680 hatchlings departing to become a future generation of sea turtles that will return to the region to lay eggs when they reach maturity.
JULY 6, 2022
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Where’s Esther? After being satellite-tagged on Coquina Beach the morning of June 20, the loggerhead sea turtle known as Esther swam south to Siesta Key before heading farther out into the Gulf of Mexico. She has since returned to the waters off Siesta Key as of July 4, traveling a total of 88 miles. Esther is one of 15 turtles competing in the Sea Turtle Conservancy’s 13th Annual Tour de Turtles event, with the title going to the turtle that travels the farthest between their tagging date and Oct. 31, the end of sea turtle nesting season. Esther is competing to raise awareness of light pollution, which can disorient nesting and hatching sea turtles. She is sponsored by Waterline Villas & Marinas and Mainsail Vacation Rentals.
2017,2019,2020,2021,2022
Voted Favorite: Live Music, Night Spot, Takeout, Grill and Burger
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REAL ESTATE
JULY 6, 2022
Mortgage interest rates rising again
H
ere’s a little perspective on the continuing increase of the 30-year, fixedrate mortgage. Several months ago, I did an analysis of the average fixed-rate mortgage rates starting in 1971 recorded on Freddie Mac’s website. At the time, something told me that I should hang onto this research, however, I had no idea how much I would be referring to it during the past couple of months. Since the Federal Reserve decided to increase interest rates in an effort to control inflation, the housing market has been substantially disrupted. Currently, the U.S. mortgage rates have reached their highest level in more than 13 years. The average interest rate for 2008 was 6.3% and we are already seeing rates at or near 6%. In June, the Federal Reserve increased rates by 0.75% points and Fed Chairman Jerome Powell indicates things are not likely to change soon. He hints that at the July meeting there will be another 0.75% increase. Mortgage rates don’t automati-
Castles in the Sand LOUISE BOLGER cally increase when the Fed raises rates, but they are heavily influenced by it. What we’re seeing happening around the country and in Florida is a decline in the number of sales, not a decline in sale price. Even though there is some increase in the number of new properties hitting the market, it is so marginal it doesn’t even come close to providing enough inventory to satisfy hungry buyers. In Manatee County in May, the supply of single-family homes finally exceeded one month, which is anemic when you consider that a sixmonth supply of available properties has traditionally been the benchmark for a healthy real estate market.
Complicating the availability versus demand ratio even further is the fact that so many homeowners refinanced their mortgages when rates were under and just over 3%. These homeowners have no incentive to sell any time soon and move on or up to another home. Even potential retirees are rethinking the benefit of selling, helping to freeze the market, not to mention the pandemic providing a new way to do business remotely, allowing employees to work from areas of the country with lower housing prices shifting the market. Because the interest rates were so low for so long, buyers were able to purchase larger and more expensive homes. However, now with less purchasing power, young buyers are facing the reality of settling for a smaller home with fewer amenities in an area they may not really want to be. Housing costs in the country have jumped from 24% of the average household budget in the early 1970s to 27% in the late 1980s to 35% in 2019 with higher housing costs
likely to come based on the increase in sale prices. Most real estate professionals and economists don’t see prices going down. Goldman Sachs estimates housing prices will grow around 10% this year nationally and Bank of America forecasts 15%. So, it doesn’t look like the Federal Reserve’s plan to lower the heat on the housing market by increasing mortgage rates has worked; there is still a huge demand for properties. It has, however, brought a lot of pain to first time and marginal buyers. Tony Veldkamp, the president of the Realtor Association of Sarasota and Manatee wisely says, “If the time is right for someone to purchase a home, they should not let interest rates deter them if they can afford the increase in payments. Homes can be permanent, whereas interest rates are temporary.” I agree. The big picture is that interest rates are still low relative to other times in our history, and that’s my perspective.
JULY 6, 2022
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THE SUN
AMI Historical Society seeks funding from TDC
Love it Like a Local campaign seeks support Manatee County’s Love it Like a Local tourism campaign is seeking area businesses and supporters to help educate visitors on how they can preserve and protect the Island, its beaches and natural resources. Joining the campaign not only allows businesses to educate, but also be promoted to potential visitors and current guests. For more information, visit www. bradentongulfislands.com.
BY JASON SCHAFFER SUN CORRESPONDENT | jschaffer@amisun.com
ANNA MARIA – The Anna Maria Island Historical Society is seeking tourism funds for improvements to its building, and has asked the Manatee County Tourist Development Council (TDC) for its support. Museum Vice President Barbara Murphy and former TDC member Doug Copeland addressed the council at The Center of Anna Maria Island on June 23. Murphy and Copeland - whose wife, Pat, was one of the original founders of the museum - gave an update on the museum and discussed its past, present and future. “The Anna Maria Historical Museum offers a glimpse into the past of our little piece of paradise,” Murphy said. “You can literally take a step back in time as you walk through the museum filled with artifacts and photos from the past.” The Historical Society was founded in 1991 by Pat Copeland after she bought the photos and archives from a newspaper that had been in operation since the 1950s and was closing. It was her mission to use that information to start a historical society and museum that would showcase the history of Anna Maria Island, its residents and culture. The permanent home of the Historical
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JASON SCHAFFER | SUN
The Anna Maria Island Historical Museum and old city jail on Pine Avenue in Anna Maria. Society came after Anna Maria Island Turtle Watch had to give up its Turtle House on Pine Avenue after changes in state laws prevented them from hatching turtles there. The building had also served as an icehouse and a police station in years past. “The Anna Maria City Commission gave the Historical Society use of the building in 1992,” Doug Copeland said. “With the help of the Anna Maria Island Privateers and other volunteers, the building was gutted and remains their current home.” The property contains the old city jail, a popular tourist attraction in Anna Maria. The land also had an area that was cleaned up by volunteers and became the Anna Maria Historical Park, a native landscape that visitors can enjoy. Another
museum project is the Pat Copeland scholarship, which gives $4,000 to an outstanding area high school senior every year. The museum, 402 Pine Ave., is open Monday through Friday from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. Visitors can learn about the history of the Island through artifacts dating back to its first inhabitants. The museum is run entirely by volunteers, as well as an 11-member board of directors, and sees between 600 and 800 visitors a month. With projects such as the re-imagining of Pine Avenue and a possible water taxi at the City Pier, Historical Society members think the number of visitors will increase significantly in the near future. The TDC will consider the request at a future meeting.
County seeks input on agritourism Manatee County is sponsoring a community workshop on agritourism issues. The virtual workshop will be held online via Zoom on Thursday, July 21 at 7 p.m. to discuss a county-initiated amendment to the Land Development Code regarding agritourism activities on properties located in Manatee County. County staff is proposing to add the minimum regulations necessary to protect the public interest (health, safety and welfare) as it relates to substantial offsite impacts associated with agritourism activities. The purpose of the workshop is to inform residents of the nature of the proposal and seek comments. The meeting will be limited to the first 500 attendees. For more information, visit mymanatee.org or call 941-748-4501.
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JULY 6, 2022
JAMES THOMAS | SUBMITTED
City leaders thank sanitation workers Holmes Beach Mayor Judy Titsworth, Commissioner Pat Morton and city staff thank Waste Pro staff members for their hard work during a June 28 lunch to recognize National Sanitation Workers Day.
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JULY 6, 2022
BEACH BEAT BRADENTON BEACH
7/1, 6 p.m., theft, Coquina Beach public parking. Officers responded to the Coquina Beach public parking lot in response to multiple thefts from at least four vehicles. Items stolen included electronics, cash and other personal property. Due to the large crowds over the holiday weekend, police were not able to identify any suspects.
HOLMES BEACH
6/23, 9:50 p.m., assist/MSO, Alamanda Road. The officer was dispatched to a domestic disturbance. The caller said her father was heavily intoxicated and was physically hurting her. The officer arrived and followed a Manatee County Sheriff’s Office deputy to the front of the house, where the male suspect was screaming at them in a threatening manner. The man allegedly punched a hole in a wall and had thrown objects around the house. He was even-
tually placed into handcuffs without further incident. 6/24, 6:43 a.m., petit theft, 3401 Gulf Drive. Complainant stated to police that she left her rental bike at the side of the condo where she was staying at 10:30 p.m. on Thursday night. At 6:30 a.m. the next day she noticed the bike was missing. She could not provide a serial number and a canvass for security video in the area by police was unsuccessful. The bike was found in a nearby yard later that day and returned to the renter.
COVID-19 in Manatee County JUNE 27
Cases 284 % Positivity 24.07% Deaths < 10 % Eligible population vaccinated 72.5% New hospital admissions 52
Manatee County community level of COVID-19 transmission Source: Centers for Disease Control
JULY 4
Cases 295 % Positivity 25.16% Deaths < 10 % Eligible population vaccinated 72.6% New hospital admissions 67
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OBITUARIES Michael Christopher Stone Michael Christopher Stone passed away on June 27, 2022 at the age of 54. Michael (Mike) was born on May 6, 1968 in Milwaukee, Wisconsin, the son of Robert Eugene and Janice Marie Stone. The family moved to Short Hills New Jersey in 1970. Mike spent his youth in Short Hills and graduated from Millburn High School. He enjoyed sports and played baseball, basketball, track and football. From there he went on to become a graduate of Texas Christian University. Upon graduation, Mike came back to Short Hills and worked many years with Northwestern Mutual Life as a financial advisor. In his free time, Mike enjoyed playing golf at Baltusrol Golf Club, and coaching little league baseball and basketball. He really enjoyed watching his nieces and nephews at their sporting events and musical theater performances. Upon his retirement, Mike moved to Holmes Beach, Florida to live and manage investment property. He loved his beach house and spending his time with his family. He even started cheering for the Tampa sports teams along with his long support of New York teams. Mike was a fun-loving and devoted son. He loved life and always had a smile while maintaining an optimistic attitude. Mike was always ready with a good joke to make you laugh. He was preceded in death by his father, Robert Stone. Michael is survived by his mother, Jan Stone; three brothers, Stephen, David and James; along with five nieces and nephews, Alexandra, Robert, Eric, Christopher and Stephanie. Mike also enjoyed his time with his cousin, Nancy Worth, in Colorado Springs, Colorado.
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JULY 6, 2022
Sherrall Van Leeuwen • 25 years NAVY • 10 years of experience as a real estate professional • Always available and responsive to your needs • Honest and ethical • Anna Maria local HBPD | SUBMITTED
HBPD Chief Bill Tokajer is kicked out of the driver’s seat of one of the department’s vehicles by campers from The Center of Anna Maria Island.
• On your side
HBPD | SUBMITTED
Campers from The Center of Anna Maria Island take a turn behind the wheel of an HBPD vehicle on June 28 at city field with Police Chief Bill Tokajer.
Contact me today for your free consultation.
Campers treated to police vehicle tour
941.287.5795 Sherrall.VanLeeuwen@PremierSIR.com CALLSHERRALL.com
Holmes Beach Police Chief Bill Tokajer shows kids from The Center of Anna Maria Island’s summer camp what it’s like to ride in the front of the department’s Hummer on June 28 at city field.
PremierSothebysRealty.com Sotheby’s International Realty® and the Sotheby’s International Realty logo are registered service marks used with permission. Each office is independently owned and operated.
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5708 Inspiration Terrace $4,500,000
6489 Gulfside Road $3,995,000 Dennis Girard 941.809.0041
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Sotheby’s International Realty® and the Sotheby’s International Realty logo are registered service marks used with permission. Each office is independently owned and operated. Equal Housing Opportunity. Property information herein is derived from various sources including, but not limited to, county records and multiple listing services, and may include approximations. All information is deemed accurate.
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JULY 6, 2022
Perico Bay Club—As Good As It Gets!!
Business As Usual…..Just A Li le Differently. If you’re looking to buy or sell in Perico Bay Club, or know someone who is, please give me a call!
Give me a call today if you yo ou u’re ’ree lookin looking ngg to Buyy or Sell on Anna Maria Maria Island Mari Islaand or the surrounding ounding ngg aarea! rea eaaa!!
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Pirates invading the Island Be on the lookout for pirates invading Anna Maria Island from Friday, Aug. 5 through Saturday, Aug. 7 as the Anna Maria Island Privateers hold their annual “Return to Tortuga” Pirate Invasion Weekend. The Invasion Package is $175 per person and includes admission and transportation to all events. Proceeds will further the Privateers’ mission of
Pirates for Kids and Community. All events have a la carte tickets available; prices are listed on the schedule of events at the Privateers website, www. amiprivateers.org, where information is also available on accommodations at Compass Margaritaville and Anna Maria Island Resorts. The Privateers are a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization.
Water management district has new regional manager Bruno Kapacinskas recently introduced himself to the Anna Maria City Commission as the Southwest Florida Water Management District’s new government affairs regional manager. He told the commission his office is in Sarasota and he’s now the city’s main point of contact regarding stormwater and drainage-related grants and cooperative funding agreements. “We’re here to help in quality of water matters,” said Kapacinskas, adding that he used to work for Manatee County and is very familiar with Anna Maria Island. He also recently introduced himself to the Bradenton Beach City Commission.
JOE HENDRICKS | SUN
Bruno Kapacinskas attended the June 23 Anna Maria City Commission meeting.
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JULY 6, 2022
Key Royale golf sizzles JUNE 27 - MODIFIED STABLEFORD
First Place - Jim Hill with a score of +4 Second Place - Tom Nelson and Dave Richardson with a score of +3
JUNE 30 - SCRAMBLE
First Place Team - with a score of 3 under par - Fred Miller, Tom Nelson, Kurt Snouffer and Quentin Talbert tied the team of Mike Gillie, Art McMillan, Gary Razze and Mike Riddick, with Talbert sinking a 20-foot puttoff to determine the overall winning team.
New surface for pickleball courts PAUL DEVINE | SUBMITTED
Funds from the Hagen Family Foundation are helping to replace the surface of two city pickleball courts. A new cushion surface will replace the plastic grid surface that didn’t find favor with pickleball players. Previously, players have complained that
the grid material is slippery to play on and that balls don’t bounce well on the surface. Work to remove the tiles and install the new court surface is expected to begin immediately on the two courts located next to the dog park at the city field complex.
Showing some hockey love Above, the Tampa Bay Lightning may have lost the Stanley Cup, but there’s still a lot of love on Anna Maria Island for the area hockey team. Resident Paul Devine recreated the team’s logo using seaweed on the sand on June 26 at the 36th Street beach access in Holmes Beach. Right, Devine has a miniature version of the Stanley Cup ready to send to the Colorado Avalanche team, complete with a little beach sand from Anna Maria Island.
The trusted team in luxury real estate. SOLD PROPERTIES ON ANNA MARIA ISLAND
SOLD | 214 Coconut Ave | Anna Maria | $7,285,000
SOLD | 311 62nd St | Holmes Beach | $2,316,450
SOLD | 112 Mangrove Ave | Anna Maria | $3,550,000
Hannah Hillyard George Myers REALTOR®
941.744.7358
REALTOR®
941.224.6021
Contact Hannah & George today to discuss your real estate goals. ®
20-YEAR ISLAND RESIDENTS & REALTORS 6000 Marina Drive 113 | Holmes Beach, FL 34217
www.amisun.com
JULY 6, 2022
THE SUN
31
MONKEY BUS: Sold, new owners to focus on safety FROM PAGE 1
buses, new brakes and fixing things that were broken. For our first two weeks, we’ve been doing maintenance on these buses.” According to Dirbas, the plan for the near future includes adding at least two new buses to the current fleet that will be higher-end luxury vehicles that are air conditioned and only serve sponsor businesses. Currently, a rider can call a Monkey Bus to just about any location on the Island, but the new buses will offer a premium option serving only advertiser customers. “These new buses will be used for our sponsors only,” Dirbas said. “Only people going to and from our sponsors will be able to get on those buses.” The Monkey Bus has been cruising the Island since 2014, taking both locals and visitors to and from various destinations, and helping advertisers
share their messages. Drivers lease the vehicle for the day and pay for their own gas and a lease fee. The only income for drivers are tips, which allow the employees, who are all subcontractors, to profit from their efforts. “Monkey Bus drivers work long, hot and grueling hours; their tips are their only source of income,” Dirbas said. “A lot of people think the tips go to the company but that’s not the case. To clarify, the maintenance of the vehicles, insurance and operating costs are covered by advertisers, but drivers only get tips, so treat them well, it’s not an easy job.” Dirbas and Gross are dedicated to making sure riders make it to their destination without issues. The company reserves the right to refuse service to anyone who may be too intoxicated or pose a threat to staff or passengers. “Every minute a Monkey Bus is on the Island is a minute
JASON SCHAFFER | SUN
From left, Elty Fox, Rick Thress, Ben Kendrick, Sally Dirbas, Mitchell Gross and Robert Powell with the fleet of Monkey Buses now under the new ownership of M and S Ad Ventures. the Island is a little bit safer,” Dirbas said. “We help keep people who have had a few
drinks get home safely, and that makes this Island a safer place to be.”
The Monkey Bus retains its phone number, 941-565-6542.
FOURTH: Weekend crowds return to Anna Maria Island FROM PAGE 1
slowed traffic on the Island’s two main roads on Monday. “The beaches are incredibly crowded. We barely have room to drive our ATVs because there are so many people out there,” Holmes Beach Police Chief Bill Tokajer said. Tokajer also addressed the use of Anna Maria Elementary’s parking lot for overflow parking. The lot was free to use July 2, 3 and 4, but not without controversy. “The school was open for parking Saturday, Sunday and Monday, but in reality it shouldn’t have been,” Tokajer said. “County Administrator Scott Hopes told Superintendent Cynthia Saunders that he would have the flashing beacon for the crosswalk installed before the July Fourth weekend and it was not. It was a dangerous situation with people crossing the road with their families carrying beach gear in an area without a proper crosswalk.”
JASON SCHAFFER | SUN
Beachgoers give a turtle nest its space as they enjoy a sunny July Fourth at Coquina Beach. Right, One bicyclist decked out his ride in patriotic style for the Fourth of July parade. Guests prepare for the water battle along the parade route. Below, The Anna Maria Island Privateers lead the way in the landbound Skullywag pirate ship for the annual Fourth of July parade.
KRISTIN SWAIN | SUN
ANNE YARBROUGH | SUN
ANNE YARBROUGH | SUN
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THE SUN
SPORTS
JULY 6, 2022
First indoor wins for Bridgetender, Moss Without a mercy rule, the Progressive Cabinetry crew ran away with the game, scoring 15 points in regulation play. Four Progressive Cabinetry ballers scored four goals in the win: Ethan Angel, Barrett Raina, Mattox Caseman and Alonso Valle, who put three additional points on the scoreboard for the team’s win. Jackson Wyatt had three critical assists, along with assists by Caseman and Raina. With playoff games in sight, any of the teams in the U9 and U13 leagues can end the season champions, despite big losses or slow starts to the season. Not a single team in either league should be counted out.
BY MONICA SIMPSON SPECIAL TO THE SUN
ANNA MARIA – After three weeks of youth indoor soccer play at The Center, U9’s team, Bridgetender Inn, and U13’s team, Moss Builders, finally earned their first win of the summer season. Bridgetender’s 1-0 victory over Solid Rock Construction gives the team a 1-2 record going into the second half of the regular season. Campbell Collins’ single goal, along with the fighting offense and defense of the Bridgetender squad put the W in the record books. Team Solid Rock never gave up and left it all on the indoor pitch. Ugly Grouper’s win put them on top of the U9 standings along with Solid Rock Construction. Both teams play game four hoping for their third win. Camden Rudacille and Parker Svoboda put the points on the scoreboard, with two goals for Rudacille, also credited with an assist. Beau Sanson had four goals in Ugly Grouper’s victory, 5-3 over Blalock Walters, shares Bridgetender’s 1-2 record. Teammate Landon Leach had the additional goal and two saves, while Hadley Cook supported the scoring effort with an assist. In the U13 league, Moss
SUBMITTED
In the second game of the night, team Blalock Walters and team Ugly Grouper played a close one on The Center’s indoor soccer pitch last Tuesday. Builders made way with the Freckled Fin defense, putting a notch in the win column with a score of 8-2. A hat trick by Callin Westfall, along with four goals between Mason Moss and Riley Karecki gave team Moss Builders 7 points. Austin Guess contributed to his team’s win with a solo goal in game three of the season. Moss is credited with two assists, with another critical assist by Westfall. Freckled Fin’s second loss comes despite amazing efforts
by the team, including goals by David Zupa and Chandler McRae. Teammate and brother Tucker McRae had an allimportant assist. Alone at the top of the charts, Progressive Cabinetry won their third game 15-4, keeping them undefeated with a 3-0 record. The other three teams share the spot for second with only one win. After June 28, only two regular season games have yet to be played until the start of playoffs. Team Shady Lady struggled
to keep the Progressive Cabinetry players out of scoring range despite all effort. Playing with heart and purpose, Shady Lady’s Jack and Jesse Zaccagnino each worked their magic, scoring a goal. Jack Zaccagnino also made an important and selfless assist. Alex Monserrate and Sterling Holiday shared in the scoring with the Zaccagnino brothers with goals of their own. Shady Lady’s Ava Mason is credited with an assist in the valiant effort by her teammates.
SUN SCOREBOARD TUESDAY, JUNE 28 YOUTH INDOOR SOCCER WEEK THREE - U9
Bridgetender Inn (1-2-0) Solid Rock Construction (2-1-0)
1 0
Ugly Grouper (2-1-0) Blalock Walters (1-2-0)
5 3
U13
Moss Builders (1-2-0) Freckled Fin (1-2-0)
8 2
Progressive Cabinetry (3-0-0) Shady Lady (1-2-0)
15 4
JULY 6, 2022
FUN IN THE SUN
Across 1 Name in Cold War news 5 Lampoon 11 Ones presenting acts 14 "Hard __!": captain's order 15 Ended an engagement, in a way 16 Larter of "Resident Evil" films 17 "Back to the Future"? 19 Gym unit 20 What a choir may sing in 21 Bhopal locale 23 Tablelands 24 Tacks on 27 The last Mrs. Chaplin 29 "March of the Penguins"? 32 Brazil map word 35 Butler's last word 36 "Groovy!" Answers to 06-29-22 Crossword Puzzle.
37 Some pitches 40 Evasive tactic 41 "We're live!" studio sign 42 Limo destination 45 Performs a Halloween prank, briefly 46 "Titanic"? 50 Warehouse 51 Sleep and Comfort 52 Spiral-horned antelope 56 Bear genus 58 "Out of Africa," for one 59 Vince's agent in "Entourage" 60 "Star Wars"? 64 Prepare to drive, with "up" 65 "Gracias" reply 66 66 and others: Abbr. 67 Pair of gallons? 68 Play areas
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33
69 Listening devices Down 1 Stride pianist Art 2 Classic Dior style 3 Weigh station line-up 4 Vacillate 5 Gone out with 6 "__ in": "Jeopardy James" bet 7 Pirouette pivot point 8 Draft choice 9 Stand up to 10 Prime real estate? 11 Racing game with Yoshi and Bowser 12 "Don't leave a mess" 13 Modest intake 18 Actress Salazar of "Maze Runner" movies 22 Allotted 24 Abbr. between names, perhaps 25 Lower 26 Pride's place 28 Very long time 30 Mormon letters 31 Gothic fiction pioneer Radcliffe 32 Barges and such 33 In the buff 34 Private chapels 38 Lookout offerings 39 Blunder 40 Ostrich relative 42 Write 43 Commanded 44 NHL tiebreakers
47 Price partner 48 Coral __ 49 "Get Shorty" novelist __ Leonard 53 Blood line 54 Like sunny weather,
vis-à-vis rainy 55 Toggery 57 Food stamp? 58 Degs. for playwrights 59 Eroded, with "into" 61 Low digit
62 Pallid 63 "Ghost" psychic __ Mae Brown
34
THE SUN
CLASSIFIED
ANNOUNCEMENTS
ESTATE SALE
BEACH YOGA ON Wednesdays, Saturdays & Sundays at 8:30am at the end of Pine Ave by the Sandbar Restaurant by donation. Classes on Tuesdays & Fridays at 8:30 at 100 Broadway St. on LBK. www.thriveyogafit.com
ESTATE SALE FRIDAY July 8. 9:30am-3pm. 209 Periwinkle Court, City of Anna Maria 34216. Tommy Bahama style King & Twin beds, sofa, 2 chairs, & ottoman. Lazy Boy leather recliner, pair of chests, buffet, cherry desk, wash stand, Florida style chairs, dinning room table with 6 chairs, étagère, 70” 2017 Vizio TV, pair of tables, decorative accessories, Barbie dolls, prints & paintings, kitchen ware, wrought iron table, Weber grill, smoker, beach wagon & canopy, A NICE SALE! See pics at estatesales.net Sale conducted by Palma Sola Sales. Tickets given out at 8am.
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. TINGLEY LIBRARY IN BRADENTON BEACH is looking for volunteers. Fun and friendly atmosphere. Morning and afternoon shifts. If interested, please contact library clerk Eveann Adams at 941-779-1208, between 10-3, Tues. -Fri. only.
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. $100 or Best Offer. Call 941-705-7560.
COMMERCIAL SALES, RENT & LEASE
HOME IMPROVEMENTS
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
TILE! TILE! TILE! All variations of tile supplied and installed. Quality workmanship. Prompt, reliable, many Island references. Free estimates. Neil 941-726-3077
CLEANING SERVICE
RENOVATION SPECALIST ALL carpentry repairs, Wash Family Construction, locally owned and operated CBC 1258250 Call 941-7250073.
TOTAL HOME SERVICES CLEANING : Residential, Commercial, Rentals, VRBO. Professional and Reliable. Call 941-7564570 or 941-565-3931
EMPLOYMENT 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 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 mailed to The Anna Maria Island Sun, P.O Box 1189, Anna Maria, FL 34216, Attention: Mike Field, publisher.
Call us today! 941-778-3986
KERN CONSTRUCTION NEW Homes & Remodel. Design/ Build. Since 1968. License # CBC 1261150. Call Mike Kern 941-778-1115 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.
API’S DRYWALL REPAIR 15+ years experience. Free estimates. No job too small. Love to help you. Call 941-524-8067. ISLE TILE specializing in Custom Bath/Shower & Backsplash installation. Pressure washing available. Call 941-302-8759 isletileservices.com “HAMMERED HOMES” (SAVING HOMES SINCE 1984) Handyman services, renovations. Free Estimates & Consulting. Call before making decision, save money. 941-778-3206
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 ISLAND RESIDENT. TREE/ BUSH Trimming, removal. Sweeping, blowing, weeding. Weekly, bi-monthly or monthly schedule. Pressure washing. Call Bill Witaszek 941-307-9315. SHELL DRIVEWAYS & LANDSCAPE. Specializing in Old Florida Seashell driveways and scapes. Also Rock, Mulch, & Soil. Free estimates. Call Shark Mark 941-301-6067
LOST & FOUND LOST PRESCRIPTION SUNGLASSES in black case between Gulf Watch and Beach House Restaurant. Please call 847-563-8365.
MASSAGE MASSAGE BY VINNIE Swedish Deep Tissue And More By Appointment Only Call 773-383-0463 Vinnie LMT,CMCE
JULY 6, 2022
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 DONALD PERKINS ABRACADABRA PAINTING LLC fully insured. 30 years experience. Many Island references. Call 941-705-7096
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
AMISUN.COM
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.
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 REALTOR FOR HIRE. BUYING OR SELLING on AMI? 17 years experience & USAF Veteran. Call Kelly Gitt Keller Williams Realty today 941-799-9299.
RENTALS: ANNUAL ANNUAL RENTAL IN GATED HARBOUR LANDINGS, 4118 Osprey Harbour Loop, less than 1 mile from gulf sand just across Cortez causeway. 1900+ sq ft 2BR/2BA, screened lanai upper level, with elevator. Full non-conforming 1900 sq ft ground level, currently used with 2 additional BRs, finished storage, with split air units, 3 cars in garage. Rented as furnished. Total living space is more than 3,500 sq ft. New upscale appliances. Well maintained, white cabinets, black granite countertops. Photos on line from previous sale do not show latest construction updates. Call Nelson at 303-9684321 to get more info. Requires background check, deposit. Offered at $4,000 per month, minimum 12 month lease
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.
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 CONDO SUMMER SPECIAL Large pool, beach access, furnished, WIFI, 1BR 6 month lease. $1900/mo. All utilities included. redekercondosonami.com Tim 941-704-7525 LUXURIOUS ANNA MARIA ISLAND CONDO for rent. Upgraded granite/ stainless kitchen. Incredible water views through floor length windows. Waterfront patio. Luxury furnishing. 2BR/2BA. King beds. Pool, tennis, walk to beach. Private carport. Monthly rental July-August 2022, June-December 2023. Owner/renter. Flexible terms. 570-239-0431 email marketreps@aol. com
TRANSPORTATION AMI TAXI credit cards, cash, venmo accepted. Airport: Tampa $105, Sarasota $50, St. Pete/Clearwater $105, Orlando $220. Call 941-447-8372 or 941-4478376. amitaxi4u@gmail. com, www.amitaxi.com ANYTIME TRANSPORTATION to all Airports, Casino, etc. Tampa/St. Pete $80. Sarasota $40. Pets welcome. Very dependable. Reasonable rates. Contact Jeanne. 941-779-5095
AMISUN.COM
www.amisun.com
JULY 6, 2022
BUSINESS & SERVICE DIRECTORY HOME IMPROVEMENT
HOME IMPROVEMENT
THE SUN
35
Call today to place your ad: 941-778-3986 PAINTING
TRANSPORTATION
36
www.amisun.com
THE SUN
JULY 6, 2022
the Team Duncan Difference! ✔ Local-Area Expertise ✔ Outstanding Customer C t Service S i ✔ Experienced Professionals ✔ Proven Performance
Darcie Duncan Broker - Owner
Cindy Jones Sales Associate
Michelle Laade Sales Associate
April Green Martha Jones Robel Sales Associate Sales Associate
Robyn Hawk Paige Rogers Joey Hutchinson Katie Self Sales Associate Sales Associate Sales Associate Sales Associate
Nancy Howle Sales Associate
William Romberger Sales Associate
Lindsey Leech Strickland Mary Anne Muniz Sales Associate Sales Associate
Ben Bryant Sales Associate
Andrea Miller Sales Associate
Home & Condominium Sales • Investment Properties • Vacation Rentals
310 Pine Avenue Anna Maria, FL 34216
TeamDuncan.com
941.779.0304
