Anna Maria Island Sun July 13, 2022

- Named Best Florida Newspaper In Its Class -

VOL 22 No. 40

July 13, 2022

Skimboard sunset CINDY LANE | SUN

The boys of summer, Jayden, Chase, Joey and Julian, skimboard right through sunset on Bradenton Beach.

Chief concerned about lifeguard shortage Looking for a job? Manatee County Marine Rescue has a few for those with the right stuff.

BY LESLIE LAKE SUN CORRESPONDENT | leslielake@aol.com

ANNA MARIA ISLAND – Parking spots at Cortez Beach were nearly filled last Thursday and beachgoers packed the prime areas near the water, but one location remained empty – the lifeguard stand.

The three Anna Maria Island public beaches – Manatee, Cortez and Coquina – have been subject to lifeguard staffing shortages for about the past year and a half, and weekend-only coverage at Cortez Beach has been one response to the scarcity of staff, Manatee County Marine Rescue Chief Joe Westerman said.

“When something happens at one beach, we have to bring people from other beaches to help,” he said. “It has a domino effect.”

With six vacant lifeguard spots, Manatee

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County is currently running at slightly more than 70% capacity of its 21 potential positions. Westerman said that the current staff has been working overtime to make up for the shortfall in coverage.

“We have a core group of dedicated professionals right now that thrive in this job,” he said. “I’d like to keep them and get more.”

Despite staffing shortages, Westerman said with an annual average of 90-135 riptide rescues at the three beaches, Manatee County lifeguards may have prevented a corresponding number of potential deaths.

“I would call riptide rescues critical rescues,” he said. “Those are possible deaths.

If someone gets caught and a lay person tries to help them, someone may drown.”

A rip current warning poster on the lifeguard stand at Cortez Beach issues the following cautions: “Don’t fight the current.

Swim out of the current then to shore. If SEE LIFEGUARD, PAGE 23

Guy Harvey Ocean Foundation partners with AME Anna Maria Elementary, the “Little School by the Bay” has been selected as the first in the country to launch the Guy Harvey Academy.

BY JASON SCHAFFER SUN CORRESPONDENT | jschaffer@amisun.com

HOLMES BEACH - Anna Maria Elementary School (AME) will soon be home to the first Guy Harvey Academy of Arts and Sciences in the country.

The Academy, named for world-renowned wildlife artist, conservationist and businessman Guy Harvey, will focus on marine sciences, conservation and the arts. A collaboration between the School District of Manatee County and the Guy Harvey Ocean Foundation (GHOF), the Academy will develop a K-5 curriculum that will include an aquarium room at AME

that should be completed by October or November and accompanying art components.

“It is a goal of our school district to bring innovative educational opportunities to our students to expand their career and life possibilities,” Superintendent Cynthia Saunders said. “It’s been a genuine pleasure to work with Dr. Harvey and everyone associated with his ocean foundation to make this academy a reality.”

The collaboration happened quickly after Saunders met representatives from GHOF at a conference. The school’s waterfront location on Anna Maria Island made AME the perfect place to launch the academy, and it didn’t take long before both parties agreed to move forward with the project, scheduled to begin at the start of the 2022-23 school year.

SEE GUY HARVEY, PAGE 27

may

TIME FOR A

BRADENTON BEACH

refreshing lobster and grapefruit salad treat.

charge for parking. 3

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and the city plans to celebrate. 4

Anna Maria Island, Florida

BRIDGE STREET turns 100

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)

941.778.1515 | 111 South Bay Blvd | Anna Maria Island, FL.

JULY 13, 2022

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Bradenton Beach commissioners to consider charging for parking The Anna Maria City Commission also will discuss paid parking near the Sandbar restaurant this week.

BY JOE HENDRICKS SUN CORRESPONDENT | jhendricks@amisun.com

BRADENTON BEACH – City commissioners plan to discuss the possibility of charging for parking in some city-owned parking lots.

During the July 7 city commission meeting, Commissioner Jake Spooner requested that a city commission workshop be scheduled to discuss potential paid parking.

“I was going to ask the board if there’d be any appetite to have a workshop on the possibility of paid parking in the city lots,” he said.

“I think that would be wonderful,” Commissioner Jan Vosburgh said.

“I agree,” Mayor John Chappie added. “We briefly discussed it a little while back and I know you’ve been working with the (police) chief.”

Chappie asked Spooner to work with City Clerk Terri Sanclemente to schedule the requested commission

A NEW TREND?

workshop, which will also include insight from Police Chief John Cosby.

He noted the scheduling of a commission workshop does not mean the commission is already committed to the idea of paid parking.

“We’re going to hear what Commissioner Spooner has prepared, and discussion with the chief, and see where we’re at,” Chappie said.

PAST DISCUSSIONS

Spooner has suggested paid parking in the past. During the June 1 Community Redevelopment Agency (CRA) meeting, he suggested paid parking in city-owned parking lots as a means of generating additional revenue to help subsidize the CRAfunded Old Town Tram program; and to also help fund additional policing within the CRA district that extends from the Cortez Bridge to Fifth Street South. In response, Chappie said he didn’t want to see paid parking lots located all over the city.

More than a year ago, when discussing the potential replacement of the aging city hall building, Spooner suggested building a new city hall/

JOE HENDRICKS | SUN

Commissioner Jake Spooner has requested city commission discussion regarding possible paid parking in city-owned parking lots. police department building near the police department and public works buildings and converting the city hall property into a paid parking lot.

Spooner estimated this would generate enough revenues to pay off the new city hall complex in 10 years and continue to provide the city with additional revenues after that.

In response to that suggestion, Chappie and Vosburgh expressed opposition to converting the city hall property located across the street from the Gulf of Mexico into a paid parking lot.

On Thursday, July 14, the Anna Maria City Commission is expected to approve a site plan amendment that will formalize the paid parking in a lot owned by Ed Chiles and the Sandbar restaurant ownership group.

Located near the Sandbar, the automated paid parking kiosk provided by Joshua LaRose’s Easy Parking Group charges $5 per hour or $30 for eight hours of paid public parking that is open to anyone on a firstcome, first-served basis. Parking in that lot is not restricted to Sandbar restaurant patrons only.

LaRose’s company also provides paid parking kiosks in downtown Sarasota and in Siesta Key. He is also the service and equipment provider for the Bradenton Beach CRA’s Old Town Tram service.

The anticipated approval of the Sandbar’s paid parking program may inspire other private and public property owners to follow suit as a means of generating additional revenues while also providing more public parking on Anna Maria Island.

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ISLAND NEWS

IN BRIEF

Sinkhole repairs completed Drivers in Holmes Beach received a rude shock on July 8 when a sinkhole appeared in the middle of Holmes Boulevard at the intersection of Gulf Drive. No injuries related to the sinkhole were reported by Holmes Beach police officers, however, the intersection was closed to all public access while repairs were made. The intersection was reopened to traffic on July 9.

New trolley app available The free Anna Maria Island trolley has a new app that will make it easier than ever to use the Island’s most popular form of public transportation. Find the bus from your phone by following these steps: • Get the ‘myStop Mobile’ app, • Check real-time bus information, • Set service alerts, • Plan your trip.

The app allows users to track exactly where their trolley is in real time, making it easier to know when the bus will arrive at a given destination.

City to host budget hearing Holmes Beach city commissioners will present the proposed 2022-23 fiscal year city budget and proposed millage rate at two meetings for public input and a formal vote. The public hearing to set the maximum millage rate - the rate increase that commissioners agree to not exceed - is scheduled for Wednesday, July 20 at 5 p.m. To speak at any Holmes Beach meeting, participants must attend in person. To see the proposed budget, visit www. holmesbeachfl.org.

Budget, paid parking on agenda The Anna Maria City Commission will engage in its first budget preparation meeting for the upcoming 2022-23 fiscal year on Thursday, July 14 at 1:30 p.m. Mayor Dan Murphy and City Clerk and Treasurer LeAnne Addy will present the city’s projected revenues for the new fiscal year that begins Oct. 1. After the budget meeting, the regular city commission meeting will begin with an introductory presentation from Congressman Vern Buchanan’s Deputy District Director Chloe Conboy.

The commission is scheduled to consider approving an amended site plan regarding a paid parking lot owned by the Sandbar restaurant ownership group. The commission also is scheduled to consider approving an amended city ordinance pertaining to alcoholic beverages. Murphy is slated to provide an update on the right-of-way use permit sought by the owner of the beachfront property at 105 Elm Ave. The mayor will also provide an update on Mote Marine’s plans for an educational outreach center on the Anna Maria City Pier and will recap the recent Fourth of July weekend in terms of its impact on the city and its residents and visitors.

Visit our website, www.amisun.com.

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JULY 13, 2022

Mayor hopes to celebrate Bridge Street’s 100th anniversary

Construction of the original Cortez Bridge was completed in 1922.

BY JOE HENDRICKS SUN CORRESPONDENT | jhendricks@amisun.com

BRADENTON BEACH – Mayor John Chappie wants to recognize the 100th anniversary of Bridge Street with a celebration.

The street was once at the foot of the bridge leading to Anna Maria Island from Cortez before a new bridge was built. The Bradenton Beach pier now stands in the footprint of the original bridge.

Chappie, a member of the city’s Community Redevelopment Agency (CRA), asked the board last month for $10,000 to purchase holiday banners to place on light poles down Bridge Street. He hopes some of the money will be used to purchase banners commemorating the 100-year anniversary of the historic commercial area. CRA members approved the funds and expressed preliminary support for the proposed celebration.

During the CRA meeting on July 6, he provided additional details on his anniversary celebration plans.

“We just are finishing up with our hundredth year of Bridge Street existing,” Chappie said, adding that Bridge Street is believed to be the longest existing commercial area on Anna Maria Island. “100 years is pretty cool.”

Chappie told the board he recently spent a couple of hours doing research at the Anna Maria Island Historical Society Museum and he couldn’t find any specific details as to exactly when the street was renamed Bridge Street, so he's using the construction of the original Cortez Bridge, which began in 1921, as a start for the 100-year timeline.

“As the bridge was being built, a hurricane came late in 1921 and they had to rebuild what was destroyed in 1922, so we’re still within that 100year timeframe,” he said.

Construction of the Cortez Bridge was completed in 1922, according to the book “Anna Maria Island: The Early Days, 1893-1940,” written by late Island historian Carolyne Norwood.

“The bridge from Cortez to Cortez Beach (now known as Bradenton Beach) was completed in 1922. Cortez Beach soon became the commercial

JOE HENDRICKS | SUN

Bridge Street has been a hub of business and recreational activity since the early 1920s. Mayor John Chappie (left) is leading the efforts to recognize and celebrate Bridge Street’s 100th anniversary.

MANATEE PUBLIC LIBRARY DIGITAL COLLECTION | SUBMITTED

In 1956, the original Cortez Bridge on the right was replaced with the new drawbridge being built on the left. center of the Island – just in time for the Florida boom and prohibition! By 1927, Cortez Beach had a population of 75. There was a village store, a gas station, the Bayside Inn (now The Bridgetender Inn), the Bath House and the popular Pagoda Dance Hall.

Among the many characters were carpenters, bookkeepers, bootleggers and ladies of the night,” Norwood wrote.

“The Bath House was on the Gulf beach at the end of Bridge Street.

South of the Bath House stood the huge Pagoda Dance Hall. People were charged to dance and be served setups for the rum, homebrew and moonshine they bought from the locals.

Weekends and holidays, as many as four hundred Model T’s a day would cross the bridge from four surround-

ing counties, since Cortez Beach had the only bathhouse and dance hall on the midwest coast of Florida. This was the heyday of Cortez Beach. Al Capone stayed at the Albion Inn (in Cortez) in 1928 amid rumors of his arranging for illegal rum to go to the Midwest from Cuba,” Norwood wrote.

In 1956, the original bridge was replaced with the current drawbridge, now slated to be replaced with a higher fixed-span bridge.

Chappie told the CRA members he’s already discussed with some Bridge Street business owners the prospect of hosting an anniversary celebration event in September.

“I’m putting out feelers and I’ll be reporting back,” he said.

JULY 13, 2022

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Multiple vehicle break-ins at Coquina, Cortez beaches Four vehicles were broken into on June 30 at the Cortez Beach and Coquina Beach public parking areas. No suspects were found.

BY JASON SCHAFFER SUN CORRESPONDENT | jschaffer@amisun.com

BRADENTON BEACH - Not everyone comes to the beach to relax in the sun; some come to make trouble, which is what happened when four vehicle break-ins were reported to police within one hour.

The break-ins happened June 30, two at Cortez Beach and two at Coquina Beach, reports from Bradenton Beach police officers state.

A report filed by Officer Roy Joslin III says he was dispatched to a vehicle burglary at 7:04 p.m. at the Cortez Beach parking area. Two women said their purses were stolen from their car while they took a short walk on the beach. The victims said they believe they left the car unlocked and their purses were in plain sight in the backseat. There were no witnesses identified and no video footage was available in the area.

JASON SCHAFFER | SUN

Public beach parking areas are patrolled by Bradenton Beach police officers.

Shortly after Joslin was investigating the first break-in, Officer Devon Straight was dispatched at 8:18 p.m. to another vehicle burglary, this one in the Coquina Beach parking lot.

When Straight arrived, he spoke to a woman who said she left her vehicle around 5:30 p.m., returning at 8:15 p.m. to find her rear window broken

and her purse missing. The woman said she'd left the purse in plain sight in the backseat. In his report, Straight said this burglary, the burglary investigated by Joslin and two others that happened during the same time frame were possibly related.

Straight found another vehicle with a broken rear window at Coquina Beach

as he was completing his investigation of the first vehicle. He waited for the owners of the second vehicle to return, which they did about 15 minutes later. The owner reported a purse that had been located in the back seat was missing.

The fourth vehicle at the Cortez Beach parking lot had an iPad taken during a break-in that closely resembled the others.

The four burglaries were referred to a detective for further investigation.

No suspects have been identified as of press time for The Sun and the investigation remains open.

“It’s hard to catch these guys, they can easily gather around a vehicle and look like beachgoers,” said Lt. Lenard Diaz. “This happens every now and then on busy holiday weekends. They come from out of town and blend in. It doesn’t take long to bust out a window and grab a purse or an iPad.” Diaz says the best deterrent is to always lock your doors and keep valuable items hidden out of sight. Leaving valuable items in plain view is an invitation to thieves, he said. They want to get in and out fast, so if they don’t see anything valuable, they’re likely to move on to another vehicle.

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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

Privateers address politics in parade The Anna Maria Island Privateers do not support nor endorse any political party, candidate or political beliefs. We do not allow any political signs, flags or organizations in our parades or events because this would jeopardize our 501(c)(3) not-for-profit status.

This rule is stated on our parade application and is part of our registration process. We do allow current elected officials holding office to participate in our parades with their name and position on vehicles.

Normally on parade day and during parade staging, we have a parade staging official to remain behind at staging to assist participants in parade procession, monitor floats and stage clean up, however, the safety of parade spectators and participants using water and water toys was at the forefront of our minds for this parade and we did not have an official to remain behind. While we do our very best to monitor every parade float as they come into staging, check off registration forms, ensure traffic does not impede the public having access to the boat ramp, ensure that parade participants stage safely on the shoulder of the road and ensure that parade participants are parked in an orderly fashion in less than two hours stage time,

once parade floats leave the staging area, we cannot monitor every parade float for the 7 miles we travel and also cannot stop other floats from entering the parade.

Late arrivals and floats entering while the procession is en route happen on a regular basis due to traffic issues, motor vehicle issues and other various reasons. Most times parade participants will allow these floats to enter into the procession unbeknownst to us.

The Privateers were alerted to two floats/vehicles with political signage in our parade processional on Tuesday, July 5 and we have already spoken to a representative from each vehicle alerting them to our rule and the penalty of such occurrence. However, the Privateers do not feel these actions were done maliciously or intentionally and would not have been done if the people who committed the infraction knew of the repercussions our organization would suffer as a result.

The Privateers are very proud and we celebrate the successful parade we had that was largely attended by 7 miles of spectators and 145 parade vehicles. We are pleased that there have been no reports of injury from water toys and immense fun was had by all who attended. We are Pirates for Kids and Community.

Anna Maria Island Privateers Inc. Holmes Beach

Clearing up Historical Society misconceptions I would like to make a few corrections to the article, “AMI Historical Society seeks funding from TDC” in the July 6 edition.

The opening paragraph states that the AMIHS is seeking tourism funds for improvements to the building, which is incorrect. Doug Copeland’s presentation makes no mention of a use for any funding, nor does he ask for funding; he presents an overview of AMIHS. Secondly, it states that the Historical Society was founded in 1991 by Pat Copeland, also incorrect. AMIHS was founded in 1990

by Pat Copeland and Carolyne Norwood.

Finally, it states that AMIHS gives a $4,000 scholarship each year. It gives a scholarship of $2,000 or more depending on how much was made selling Old Settler’s Bread during the previous season.

Thank you for the opportunity to clear up these misconceptions.

Pat Copeland Anna Maria

www.amisun.com

JULY 13, 2022

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, 1:30 p.m. – City Commission budget meeting July 14, 2 p.m. – City Commission meeting July 26, 10 a.m. – Special Magistrate hearing July 28, 5:30 p.m. – City Commission budget meeting July 28, 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.

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 13, 5 p.m. – Planning Commission meeting

THE SUN

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 July 28, 11:30 a.m. – Police officer’s pension board meeting

ISLAND-WIDE

July 19, 6 p.m. – West Manatee Fire Rescue board meeting, administration building, 701 63rd St. W., Bradenton EVENTS

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FRIDAY, JULY 15

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 16

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.

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.

THURSDAY, JULY 14

TUESDAY, JULY 19

WEDNESDAY, JULY 13

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.

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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THE SUN

JULY 13, 2022

City officials could expand Old Town Tram route The CRA has some funding decisions to make regarding the ongoing Old Town Tram service.

BY JOE HENDRICKS SUN CORRESPONDENT | jhendricks@amisun.com

BRADENTON BEACH – City officials are considering expanding the Old Town Tram parking shuttle program north of the Cortez Bridge, and are looking at different ways to fund the program.

During the Community Redevelopment Agency (CRA) meeting on July 6, members discussed the June invoice presented by Easy Parking Group owner and tram provider Joshua LaRose. The invoice was $4,180 for the two electric, golf cart-like trams that provide the CRA-funded parking shuttle service, now in its second year.

In June, advertising panels affixed to the two trams generated $5,475 in advertising revenues, which accounted for 56% of the total monthly cost of $9,655. The CRA members’ long-term goal is for 100% of those monthly costs to be covered by advertisers.

LaRose said the Old Town Trams had 6,670 riders in June. He said 815

rides were given to or from the Cortez Beach parking lot a few blocks north of the Bridge Street roundabout and 88 rides were requested to or from the Coquina Beach parking areas farther to the south.

Providing data previously requested by the CRA members, LaRose said his tram drivers declined 333 calls for rides north of the Cortez Bridge.

During the past two years, the CRA members have repeatedly expressed their desire that the Old Town Trams not travel north of the bridge that serves as the northern boundary of the CRA district that extends to Fifth Street South. During recent meetings, the board members have discussed the possibility of expanding tram service north of the bridge.

During Wednesday’s meeting, CRA member Jake Spooner noted many of those 333 declined calls for service north of the Cortez Bridge would have likely brought more visitors to the CRA district that includes Bridge Street, which is one of the tram program’s primary goals.

The other primary goal of the Old Town Tram program is to address the lack of public parking on and around Bridge Street by encouraging people to park in the nearby Cortez

Beach and Coquina Beach parking lots, where parking is usually more plentiful, and ride the free trams to and from their desired locations in the CRA district.

CRA Chair Ralph Cole said the board plans to discuss potential route changes and funding options for the continuation of the Old Town Tram program during its August meeting.

During recent CRA meetings, several potential funding options have been mentioned, including the complete privatization of the tram program or using some paid parking to help cover the CRA tram subsidies. The possible discontinuation of the tram program has also been mentioned.

These funding decisions will likely be made before the CRA’s fiscal year 2022-23 budget is adopted in September. The proposed budget currently includes $52,000 to continue subsidizing the tram program.

The Old Town Trams run daily from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. and again from 5 p.m. to 10 p.m. Tram rides can be hailed by flagging down a passing tram driver or by calling 941-404-6240.

For more information, including the current route map, visit www.oldtowntram.com.

TABLE-SIDE SERVICE WITH A BAYSIDE VIEW ON THE BRIDGE STREET PIER!

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DAILY HAPPY HOUR(S) • 3-6PM • $3 DRAFT BEERS • $3 HOUSE MARGARITAS • $4 WELLS

LANDSIDE

6906 14th Street West 941.758.7880

• $5 HOUSE WINES • $6 COCKTAILS

CORTEZ

6696 Cortez Road 941.792.0077

ELLENTON

1525 51st Avenue East 941.721.7773

BRIDGE ST. PIER Bradenton Beach 941.778.AMOB (2662)

JULY 13, 2022

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Bradenton Beach annual audit report reviewed The annual audit report identified no material weaknesses or significant deficiencies.

We all work very hard every year to give the city and its citizens the very best results we can.”

BY JOE HENDRICKS

Terri Sanclemente, city clerk

SUN CORRESPONDENT | jhendricks@amisun.com

BRADENTON BEACH – City officials recently received a good report on the annual audit conducted of the city’s finances.

The audit was for the 2020-21 fiscal year that ended on Sept. 30, 2021. The independent audit was once again conducted by the CS&L accounting firm.

The written audit report presented to city commissioners in June included several financial highlights.

“The assets of the city exceeded its liabilities at the close of the most recent fiscal year by $13,514,897 (net position). Of this amount, $1,644,415 (unrestricted net position) may be used to meet the city’s ongoing obligations to citizens and creditors in accordance with the city’s fiscal policies.

“The city’s total net position increased by $3,238,772 during the year. As of the close of the current fiscal year, the city’s govern-

FILE PHOTO

City Treasurer Shayne Thompson and City Clerk Terri Sanclemente oversee the city’s budgetary practices. mental funds reported a combined ending fund balance of $2,109,874, a decrease of $817,513 in comparison with the prior year.

Of this total amount, $140,879 is available for spending at the city’s discretion,” according to the audit report.

“The city’s net position increased by $3,238,772 during the current fiscal year.

Revenues were $7,550,056 compared to expenses of $4,311,284. Revenues increased $3,134,527 due to increases in ad valorem taxes of $114,882, state shared revenues of

$274,523, licenses and permits of $245,183 and grants of $2,733,772. Expenses were consistent with the prior year, increasing by $109,403,” according to the report.

“The city’s investment in capital assets amounts to $10,439,744 (net of accumulated depreciation). This investment in capital assets includes land, construction in progress, buildings and improvements and machinery and equipment. The city’s investment in capital assets for the current fiscal year increased $2,980,054. This was comprised largely of $3,484,612 of capital additions, net of $503,091 of depreciation expense,” according to the report.

The report stated that no material weaknesses or significant deficiencies in the city’s accounting and budget management

2022

practices were identified during the audit.

The annual city budget is guided by the city commission with assistance from the various department heads and oversight provided by City Clerk Terri Sanclemente and City Treasurer Shayne Thompson.

When asked about this year’s audit and the city’s ongoing budgetary practices, Sanclemente said, “We all work very hard every year to give the city and its citizens the very best results we can. Every department head works hard to be fiscally responsible on how we spend the money that is budgeted every year.”

The city commission and city staff are currently in the process of preparing the annual budget for the 2022-23 fiscal year that begins on Oct. 1.

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THE SUN

JULY 13, 2022

Roser Church

“...a beautiful place to explore your faith...”

SUNDAY WORSHIP 8:30 AM in the Chapel 10:00 AM in the Sanctuary Nursery • Children’s Church

ONLINE • Watch LIVE or LATER

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

JOE HENDRICKS | SUN

The Queen of Hearts was hiding in envelope #42.

Moose Queen hiding no more On July 6, one lucky ticket holder won $342,401, minus taxes, during the Anna Maria Island Moose Lodge’s weekly Queen of Hearts drawing. The winning ticket number was 1067243, envelope #42. The following day, Lodge Administrator Byron Dalton shared the news in an email he sent to members. “To our wonderful members, we thank you for playing, supporting your lodge and for

having a great time. The board works diligently so you will enjoy your time at the lodge. We are looking forward to seeing all of you on a simple visit to your lodge. To our employees and volunteers, you made this event a success.

While we cannot thank you enough, we thank all of you,” Dalton wrote. The board of officers will decide when the next Queen (drawing) will start.

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JULY 13, 2022

THE SUN

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New parking regulations in effect in Holmes Beach Drivers need to make sure they have all four tires off the road when parking on the street in Holmes Beach.

BY KRISTIN SWAIN SUN STAFF WRITER | kswain@amisun.com

HOLMES BEACH – Streetside parking is changing in Anna Maria Island’s largest city and violators could face a fine.

City commissioners voted June 28 to pass an ordinance requiring motorists to park with all vehicle tires off of the road when parking on the side of the street.

The only exception to the new rule is on Key Royale Drive near the Key Royale Golf Club where an 80-foot right-of-way

exists and streetside parking is often used as overflow parking for the restaurant. The exception extends from Crestwood Road to North Point Drive.

The new rule is already being enforced

by Holmes Beach police officers.

Mayor Judy Titsworth responded to concerns that the new rule would encourage people to park vehicles on sidewalks, saying that every road with a sidewalk that would be impeded is a no parking zone.

Commissioner Kim Rash said he’s concerned that the all-tires-off-the-road rule would remove additional parking spaces from the public and residents.

Police Chief Bill Tokajer said that he and other members of city staff measured each

parking space, allowing for 20 feet per vehicle, to make sure that parking counts are accurate. He added that the new regulations don’t reduce the number of on-street parking spaces available to the public.

Rash also questioned the need for all tires off the road parking, stating that he hasn’t heard of any accidents that were caused by the way vehicles were parked. Tokajer said that there’s no acceptable number of accidents and he wants the city to be more proactive when dealing with safety issues.

Titsworth said the new regulation will help the city reach its destination zero goal of eliminating roadway accidents. Getting parked vehicles off the city’s roadways helps with keeping lines of sight open for

drivers and opening up narrow streets for emergency vehicles, she added.

“I personally think this is a very good step toward the goal of zero,” Commissioner Carol Soustek said. She added that she hasn’t heard any issues raised with parking with all four tires off the road from residents.

Under the new regulations, residents who need to have guests park with two tires on the road for an event or other short-term reasons can contact the Holmes Beach Police Department to inform them of the event so that guests won’t be ticketed.

The cities of Anna Maria and Bradenton Beach also require vehicles to be parked with all tires off the road on the side of the street.

Parking garage poses problems for commissioners Commissioners are looking at ways to potentially prohibit parking garages without affecting off-site parking for existing businesses.

BY KRISTIN SWAIN SUN STAFF WRITER | kswain@amisun.com

HOLMES BEACH – Parking is still creating problems for city commissioners.

Commissioners relaunched a conversation concerning banning parking garages in the city during a June 28 work session.

Unfortunately for them, that conversation became a bit murky as they started examining regulations concerning off-site parking and parking for businesses that require drivers to back out onto busy roads.

At the urging of Mayor Judy Titsworth, commissioners agreed to move the ordinance to a first reading for further discussion and revision due to a shortened meeting schedule for the summer.

The discussion began with a talk about disallowing multi-level parking structures, or garages, within the city. Multi-level parking garages currently are not an approved use in any zoning district in Holmes Beach, but could be approved through a special exception. If the proposed regulations pass, the special exception approval avenue would be lost. While commissioners are not opposed to covered parking, the proposed ordinance allows parking only on the ground floor. It does not prohibit a dwelling unit or business on the second floor.

If it passes two public hearings and votes by commissioners, the proposed ban on parking garages would derail plans by Manatee County Commissioner Kevin Van Ostenbridge to pursue a parking garage in the city.

When the topic was broached previously during a Holmes Beach commission work session, Van Ostenbridge stepped up to the podium during public comment to warn city commissioners away from the

5346 Gulf Drive, Holmes Beach (941) 778-5788 | hurricanehanks.com

proposed ban, stating that he was planning to present a proposal for a parking garage at the county-owned public beach.

He left before the discussion began but told Titsworth that he was listening to the meeting on Zoom.

Though commissioners could agree on the parking garage issue, the discussion derailed a bit when they ventured into other items, including how and where to allow off-site parking for businesses. City Attorney Erica Augello warned commissioners that any change they made to current off-site parking regulations would affect existing businesses and commercial properties if those properties ever were to undergo major renovations or need to be rebuilt.

Augello noted that paid parking is already disallowed in all districts in the city.

In an additional parking discussion, Police Chief Bill Tokajer said that city leaders had spoken with representatives from Hancock Whitney Bank. During that conversation, he said that while the bank’s

representatives were willing to continue the beach parking agreement with the city, they weren’t happy with the arrangement, which was causing issues for bank customers.

He added that the tow-away zone signs placed in the lot by the bank caused confusion for beachgoers and that the parking wasn’t well used by visitors. Tokajer recommended not attempting to re-enter into a beach parking agreement with the bank.

“I can’t find a compelling reason to reopen it,” Commissioner Terry Schaefer said of the lot. He added that the city doesn’t get a benefit from Manatee County by having the lot open to beachgoers after hours and the insurance for the parking costs the city money.

“I think the bank did a really nice public service for our Island and our visitors,” Commissioner Jayne Christenson said. “I commend them.”

Commissioners opted to not move forward with attempting to renew the parking contract.

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KRISTIN SWAIN | SUN

Three members of the city’s Parks and Beautification Committee look at different types of pavers for placement in the center of the community garden prototype next to city hall.

Planter boxes available at community garden

BY KRISTIN SWAIN SUN STAFF WRITER | kswain@amisun.com

HOLMES BEACH – The first plots at the new community garden prototype are open for planting.

During a special summertime July 6 meeting, members of the city’s Parks and Beautification Committee met to discuss the applications received so far by people hoping to use one of the 11 planter boxes at the community garden prototype located in Veterans Park next to city hall.

Each of the five applications received by the meeting date was approved by committee members, leaving six planters remaining. Parks members plan to use one of the remaining boxes to plant a demonstration area.

Participants who’ve already been awarded their planters can start planting

in the area as soon as Aug. 1.

The remaining planters will be awarded free to participants on a first-come, firstserved basis. To expedite the process, committee members opted to give city staff the authority to approve applications, at least until the committee members meet again in the fall or the garden planters are filled.

All community garden boxes must be assigned before any planting is done.

Soil and water are provided to garden participants.

While participants are welcome to start planting beginning Aug. 1, committee member Mary Lange said that because of the summer heat, she doesn’t expect anyone to plant much until at least the first of September or later.

For more information or to apply, visit www.holmesbeachfl.org.

JULY 13, 2022

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JULY 13, 2022

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NEWS BRIEFS Bayfest continues to seek sponsors The 21st Annual Bayfest is scheduled for Saturday, Oct. 15 from 10 a.m. to 9 p.m. on Pine Avenue in Anna Maria. The Island’s longest-running festival, hosted by the Anna Maria Island Chamber of Commerce, is seeking both vendors and sponsors. To get a sponsorship or vendor application, visit AMIChamber.org. The free event features a classic car show, food court, arts and crafts, live music, vendors and more.

‛S YOUR COMFORT ZONE? WHERE

AMI Chamber seeks volunteers

2021

The Anna Maria Island Chamber of Commerce is seeking volunteers. In addition to promoting member businesses and the local economy, the chamber is also a Certified Visitor Information Center for the state of Florida and Anna Maria Island. Volunteers typically work a four-hour weekday shift one or more days a week to answer visitor questions. If interested, call Becky at 941-778-1541 or email becky@amichamber.org.

Live and work in paradise If living and working on Anna Maria Island seems like a dream, the Anna Maria Island Chamber of Commerce would like to help that dream come true. The Chamber is now hosting job postings on its website. To search for open positions, visit amichamber.org/job-listings.

Parks committee seeks new members Applications are being accepted for the Holmes Beach Parks and Beautification Committee. The committee’s members are tasked with creating plans to help naturally beautify the city while also maintaining city parks and managing the community garden and Adopt-A-Spot programs. Three full-time member positions are available with two-year terms beginning in August. All applicants must be residents of Holmes Beach, though full-time residency is not required. Committee members meet from October through May on the first Wednesday of each month. For more information, or to apply, visit www.holmesbeachfl.org.

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JULY 13, 2022

Public Works manager bids farewell to Anna Maria After seven years in Anna Maria, Public Works Manager Dean Jones is bringing his skills to the city of Bradenton.

They are getting a welltrained guy

BY JOE HENDRICKS SUN CORRESPONDENT | jhendricks@amisun.com

ANNA MARIA – Public Works Manager Dean Jones has accepted a position as the new assistant director of Public Works and Utilities for the city of Bradenton.

Mayor Dan Murphy announced Jones’ pending departure in an email sent to city commissioners and others on July 5.

“Please join me in wishing Dean Jones well in his new position as Assistant Director of Public Works and Utilities with the city of Bradenton. His resignation is effective July 16. Dean has served as public works manager for the city of Anna Maria since 2015.

Effective immediately, Ryan Wieland, assistant public works manager, will assume Dean’s responsibilities as public works manager on a temporary basis. Ryan began his career with our city in 2018 and was appointed assistant manager of public works in 2019.

who gets things done.”

JOE HENDRICKS | SUN

CITY OF ANNA MARIA | SUBMITTED

Dan Murphy, Anna Maria mayor

Dean Jones, left, is ending his seven-year tenure with the city of Anna Maria. Ryan Wieland, right, is now serving as the public works manager on an interim basis.

A permanent replacement for Dean will be named in the near future.”

When contacted later in the week, Murphy said, “I’m happy for Dean and I think this is a great opportunity for him. I know he’ll do well working for the city of Bradenton. They are getting a well-trained guy who gets things done. Ryan is taking Dean’s place on a temporary basis for right now, until a permanent appointment can be made, which I expect to get done in the next week or so.”

Jones has worked in Anna Maria’s Public Works Department for the past

seven years and he served as public works manager for most of his tenure.

His last day on the job will be Friday, July 15.

“I started out as one of the guys, got promoted to assistant manager and shortly thereafter I was promoted to manager. I love the city of Anna Maria.

The mayor and the rest of the staff are incredible. I’m sure my assistant, Ryan Wieland, will do very well. I just hope I did a good job and I hope I helped,” Jones said.

“It’s been a wonderful life experience. While working for the mayor, I

developed a completely new set of skills than I had when I started. Dan’s an incredible and amazing person to work for and I can’t thank him enough for all the experience he’s given me. He helped me elevate myself to this next position,” Jones said.

Regarding his new position with the city of Bradenton, Jones said, “I’ll be overseeing the golf course, the ball fields, G.T. Bray Park and the water plants – pretty much everything in the city of Bradenton. And like I did in Anna Maria, I’ll try to make it a better place.”

JULY 13, 2022

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IGW featured artist brings out nature’s colors Island Gallery West celebrates the work of Terry Westbrook as the gallery's featured artist for July.

BY JASON SCHAFFER SUN CORRESPONDENT | jschaffer@amisun.com

HOLMES BEACH - Each month the front window display at Island Gallery West focuses on the work of their featured artist, and July showcases the colorful pastel work of Terri Westbrook.

A painter whose work leans toward impressionism, Westbrook brings nature forth in a way that captures the eye with color.

“I paint from photographs I have either taken myself in my travels or from photographs friends have provided,” Westbrook said. “I started painting pretty late in life, around 2014. I started with oils and loved it, but they began to bother me. I was allergic to oils, so I switched to pastels and have been using them ever since.”

Westbrook switched to pastels five years ago in 2017 and says she

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JASON SCHAFFER | SUN

Island Gallery West’s July featured artist is Terri Westbrook. Westbrook's work is on display at Island Gallery West in Holmes Beach. likes using an impressionistic loose style with lots of color. Her love of painting landscapes and waterscapes led her to name her company Serene Scapes.

A unique feature of Westbrook’s work is the stories she writes about each piece of art. She says many

people find the stories as interesting as the art. Visit www.terriwestbrook.com to see her art with the accompanying stories.

Westbrook will be in the gallery on Saturday, July 23 from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. to chat and answer questions about her work, on display through

July 31. All of the artworks are available for purchase at the gallery, located at 5368 Gulf Drive. Gallery hours are 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Tuesday through Sunday. Visit www.islandgallerywest.com or call 941-7786648 for updates about the art and the 30 member artists of the gallery.

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FOOD & WINE

JULY 13, 2022

Lobster - from fertilizer to feast Brian Mathae

Lobster and Grapefruit Salad (4 servings)

HURRICANE HANKS

Ingredients

Kosher salt Cracked black pepper 8-10 ounces cooked lobster (1 1/2 - 2 fresh lobster, boiled) 2 large grapefruit 1 avocado, sliced Juice from 1 lemon Chopped green onion 4 cups spring mix 3 tablespoons olive oil Sprig of fresh parsley

I

’ve always known lobster to be an expensive delicacy that is reserved for special occasions or small, tasty dishes. The sweet taste and firm meat is something that I particularly enjoy, whether simply dipped in warm clarified butter or combined with other ingredients that profile the unique flavor. Lobster is a surprisingly lean meat, even leaner than chicken, so adding an ingredient like butter adds moisture and some needed fat. The taste is less “fishy” than crab, particularly when you eat freshly prepared lobster.

On a trip to Lunenburg, Nova Scotia several years ago, I was surprised to learn about the history of lobster in North America. By the way, if you haven’t yet had an opportunity to visit Nova Scotia, I highly recommend it. It is quaint and beautiful. Fortunately, the port town Lunenburg was designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1995. It is one of only two urban communities in North America to gain the designation. I say fortunately because that designation helps preserve the unique architecture and civic design.

Approximately 70% of the original colorful colonial buildings from the 18th and 19th centuries continue to line narrow streets. For me, it was the perfect place to eat a freshly-cooked 2-pound lobster! Another must-see on a trip to Nova Scotia is the incredible tide change in the Bay of Fundy. Tides

Directions

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at the two upper basins of the bay can reach a peak of around 50 feet, the height of a five-story building. That’s 20 times the height of tides we are used to seeing on Anna Maria Island!

I’ve digressed long enough. As I said earlier, I was surprised to learn the history of lobster as a food source. Early settlers described lobster as the “cockroaches of the sea” and “bottom feeders” not worthy of gracing a dinner plate.

Instead, they used lobster for fertilizing crops or feeding prisoners. School children from low-income families would hide their lobster sandwiches from their classmates so as not to be ridiculed. I can only dream of eating lobster daily.

But perceptions slowly changed. Canned

lobster grew in popularity as did fresh lobster as more people traveled to coastal communities. By World War II, lobster was considered the delicacy it is today. Now it is reserved for special occasion dinners like those on New Year’s Eve, tantalizing appetizers, or a protein addition to a dish.

Today’s recipe pares the sweetness of lobster with the acidity of grapefruit while the avocado and oils add fat to the lean lobster. I recommend pairing a wine that has just a bit of residual sugar, like some chardonnays do or a chenin blanc. One of my favorite “everyday” chardonnays right now is Butter by Jam Cellars. It has a lush creaminess with a stone fruit and

Bring water to boil in a very large pot 2/3rds filled with salted water. Once boiling, carefully add lobsters head first, cover and boil for about 12 minutes until lobsters are bright red. Remove from water and drain and rinse under cold running water.

Remove the lobster meat and cut into large chunks. In a large salad bowl to catch the juice, cut the skin and pith off the grapefruit and remove the segments with a knife.

Squeeze lemon juice in a bowl, add olive oil and salt and pepper to taste. Whisk until blended. Add spring mix, chopped green onion and parsley leaves and toss. Add avocado, grapefruit segments and lobster meat and lightly toss. Plate and serve. lemon nose. It has a lovely, long vanilla finish. Alternatively, Babylonstoren’s chenin blanc is an elegant dry wine that is refreshing with lovely guava and melon flavors. Both are available at Hurricane Liquors.

Now with two locations to serve you better Anna Maria Island & Longboat Key Whether you are looking for that perfect wine to compliment your meal or a fun new cocktail recipe, our knowledgeable staff are pleased to help.

5344 Gulf Drive, Holmes Beach (941) 779-2337

6854 Gulf of Mexico Drive, Longboat Key (941) 953-1835

JULY 13, 2022

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Anna Maria welcomes new intern Destin Gollamudi was recently introduced to the city commission as the city of Anna Maria’s latest summer intern. Gollamudi will spend his summer internship learning about the inner workings of city government before attending college at the University of Florida this fall.

JOE HENDRICKS | SUN

Learn the basics of babysitting The Center of Anna Maria Island is hosting a class for youth interested in learning how to babysit safely. The class is scheduled on Saturday, July 23 from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. for teens ages 11 to 17. During the class, teens will learn how to get started with their own business, how to work with parents and children, caregiving and safety. They

will receive both CPR and First Aid certifications from the American Heart Association. Participants are required to bring their lunch. The deadline to register is July 15. For more information or to sign up, call The Center at 941-778-1908.

The cost to attend is $85 for Center members or $100 for non-members.

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OUTDOORS

JULY 13, 2022

The Sister Keys - the restorative power of nature Reel Time RUSTY CHINNIS

"N

ever doubt that a small group of thoughtful, committed citizens can change the world.

Indeed, it is the only thing that ever has." - Margaret Mead, anthropologist (1901-1978).

In the 1890s, the first leg of the Gulf Intracoastal Waterway was created to transport produce from Sarasota to the Tampa Bay market. The project skirted two large mangrove islands called the Otter Keys and would generate the spoil that would be the basis of the uplands we now call the Sister Keys.

At one point, a disgruntled owner bulldozed many of the mangroves because he wasn’t allowed to build on the islands. During World War II, the flats surrounding the islands were used by bombers for target practice and craters still exist as deep blue holes on the grass flats. In the 1960s, the islands were owned by a group of investors that intended to create a tropical resort they dubbed Shangri Isles. The development would have transformed the keys with a marina, 18-hole championship golf course, luxury homes, a hotel and an airport. Fortunately, economics dictated a different course for the islands and the plants and animals that called them home.

Over the next two decades, the islands would remain essentially the same except for seeds and flotsam brought there by birds, wind and tides.

RUSTY CHINNIS | SUN

The Sister Keys is a rare conservation success story.

In the late 80s, the islands went on sale again, this time advertised as a “tropical paradise” where 80 acres could be developed. This was during a period of regional growth when a spurt of development came to the area and Tidy Island on the east shore of Sarasota Bay sprouted homes at the expense of the native habitat. An adjacent island, Jewfish Key, was also undergoing development and blue septic tanks that would be buried for future homes dotted the shore on platted lots.

This activity caused a group of citizens to ask the question, “Wouldn’t it be nice to have at least one island in the bay that didn’t have a house on it?” In 1989, those progressive

citizens created the Sister Keys Conservancy and lobbied for two years to raise money and awareness to buy and protect the islands.

A logo was created, an anthem was composed and area environmental groups, including the Longboat Key Garden Club, Mote Marine Laboratory, The Sierra Club, The Trust for Public Lands and Florida Audubon, were enlisted to further the cause. The group lobbied politicians and hosted fundraisers, a Music in the Park series, bake sales and speaking engagements to spread the word.

Despite all of their efforts, the funds to purchase the islands seemed out of range until the Town of Longboat Key

voted to fund the purchase on July 10, 1992. In October of that year, the Sister Keys Conservancy’s co-founders traveled to Washington D.C. where they were presented with the Theodore Roosevelt Conservation Award for their efforts.

The islands were protected with a covenant in the deed that requires any changes to the status of the islands (renewed for 20 years this year) to be sanctioned by Florida Audubon and remained essentially unchanged until 2006. At that point, the town was approached by the developers of Perico Island, who needed mitigation credits for some dredging they were proposing. When the town leaders agreed, the islands were transformed by a project that removed all invasive plants, replaced them with native species and created an almost 2-acre wetland.

In 2010, Sarasota Bay Watch adopted the Sister Keys and committed to helping keep the islands free of trash and the inevitable regrowth of invasive plants. Annual trash and invasive cleanups have been done every April since the completion of the mitigation with the help of the Longboat Key Public Works Department, Longboat Key residents, the Longboat Key Garden Club and Suncoast Waterkeeper, which now partners with these groups periodically as well as annually.

The Sister Keys of today are an extraordinary example of what can be done to protect and enhance the Sarasota Bay ecosystem and a remarkable future vision of the restorative power of nature.

To learn more about the Sister Keys, visit www.sisterkeys.org.

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Green sea turtle released Green sea turtles are not nearly as common as loggerheads in Anna Maria Island waters.

BY LESLIE LAKE SUN CORRESPONDENT | leslielake@aol.com

ANNA MARIA - Five months after an apparent collision with a boat left him with multiple injuries, a rehabilitated green sea turtle nicknamed “Pierre” by Mote Aquarium staff was released back into the wild on July 5.

Pierre had been found on Jan. 31 floating on the water’s surface near the Anna Maria City Pier. He had suffered multiple fractures and a large piece of his carapace – or upper shell - was damaged, but there was no neurologic damage.

“Veterinary Surgery Center of Sarasota was kind enough to do a CT scan for us to determine the extent of the trauma,” Mote Sea Turtle Rehabilitation Hospital Aquarist Weston Spoon said.

Pierre had numerous fibropapilloma tumors, which were surgically removed. After a second surgery to remove a tumor on his eye in May, he continued to gain weight and eat well.

Following his successful recovery, workers from the facility released Pierre into the waters off

MOTE | SUBMITTED

Aquarist Weston Spoon of the Mote Sea Turtle Rehabilitation Hospital releases green sea turtle, Pierre, from Bayfront Park on July 5 after a successful recovery.

Bayfront Park, a short distance from where he had been found.

“He was found stranded near the City Pier, so it’s best to release them near where they’re stranded,” Spoon said, adding that Pierre is expected to acclimate easily back into his watery environment.

“Studies have been done that show they will go about their lives just as before,” Spoon said.

Mote’s Sea Turtle Rehabilitation Hospital has admitted more than 650 sick and injured sea turtles since 1995.

“We aim to help all our turtle patients return to the wild and

contribute to their populations for years to come,” according to the Mote website. “This matters greatly: All sea turtle species are threatened or endangered.”

While it was difficult to determine Pierre’s age, Spoon said he was a juvenile less than 10 years old. Green sea turtles have a life expectancy of up to 80 years, according to the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service. They are far less common in the waters off Anna Maria Island than loggerheads, but both nest on area beaches from May through October.

Where’s Esther?

SUBMITTED

The loggerhead sea turtle Esther was last tracked northwest of the northern tip of Anna Maria Island, and was the farthest out to sea since her tracking began on June 20, when she was satellite-tagged on Coquina Beach after nesting. She has traveled a total of 130 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.

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May 2022 tourist tax collections compared to May 2021

Anna Maria Bradenton Beach Holmes Beach Manatee County Total*

42% 11% 17% 4%

*(Anna Maria Island, Bradenton, Longboat Key, unincorporated Manatee County, Palmetto) Manatee County’s 5% resort tax, or tourist tax, is collected from owners of accommodations rented for six months or less who charge the tax to their renters, in most cases, tourists. About 50% of the tax proceeds are allocated to Bradenton Area Convention and Visitors Bureau tourism marketing efforts, with 20% allocated to beach renourishment. The tax also partially funds tourism-related attractions such as the Bradenton Beach and Anna Maria piers. Amounts shown were collected in May and paid to the Manatee County Tax Collector’s Office in June. Manatee County totals include Anna Maria Island cities, Bradenton, the portion of Longboat Key within Manatee County, unincorporated Manatee County and Palmetto. To anonymously report a rental owner who may not be paying the tax, call 941-741-4809 or visit http://www.taxcollector.com/tdt-evader.cfm.

Source: Manatee County Tax Collector

2022 Visitors Guidebook is now available The Anna Maria Island 2022 Official Visitors Guide and Business Directory is now available through the Anna Maria Island

Chamber of Commerce. The Chamber is a Certified Visitor Information Center and is dedicated to assisting visitors to connect with Island businesses and attractions. To request a copy of the 2022 Guidebook, visit annamariaislandchamber.org.

JULY 13, 2022

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JULY 13, 2022

THE SUN

COVID-19 high in Manatee County JULY 4

Cases 295 % Positivity 25.16% Deaths < 10 % Eligible population vaccinated 72.6% New hospital admissions 67

JULY 10

Cases 285 % Positivity 25.02% Deaths < 10 % Eligible population vaccinated 72.7% New hospital admissions 83

Manatee County community level of COVID-19 transmission Source: Centers for Disease Control and Prevention

2017,2019,2020,2021,2022

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REAL ESTATE

JULY 13, 2022

Homeowners consider renting in tight market

T

he majority of people in my generation and even those decades younger couldn’t wait to stop paying rent. It was drummed into our brains by our parents and grandparents that paying rent was a waste of money and you need to buy, buy, buy. Like so many other norms in real estate, that philosophy has also been somewhat upended.

An increasing number of professionals around the country who can more than afford to purchase a home and young retirees who may have just sold their family homes are reluctant to buy another one and have decided to rent instead. To make their decision just a little bit more confusing is the shortage of rentals, creating a similar market for rentals that we have been experiencing with sales, including bidding wars and offering more than the asking rental price.

They point out the increase in mortgage rates, the astronomical asking prices and the shortage of inventory to justify their

Castles in the Sand LOUISE BOLGER decision. Instead, they are considering renting high-end rentals, way above the $2,000-a-month median national rent, with a lot of amenities, not caring about the costversus-owning calculation. Those calculations may have changed, and there are online calculators you can use to determine what the real cost of owning versus renting is over a period of years.

For most property owners, just the straight math of owning versus renting is in favor of renting. This is including the cost of mortgage, taxes, insurance, maintenance and many other homeownership-related expenses. Of course, property appreciation is not included in this calculation, but many

new renters have already cashed out their equity in their previous homes and may be looking for just an easier and less expensive lifestyle and/or are willing to wait for a more normal real estate market.

Renting, of course, will give you more flexibility and freedom to make life decisions. There are no maintenance responsibilities and the burden of doing those repairs is someone else’s problem.

Of course, your landlord can increase the rent at the end of your lease, there are no tax benefits to renting, you can’t make changes, pets could be a no-no and rules must be followed.

We all know the pros of owning a home, starting with the appreciation. Becoming a homeowner is the best way for average middle-class people to accrue wealth; over time, it’s a good investment and probably beats the stock market. But what really appeals to buyers about ownership is, of course, the freedom to modify your property, have a tax benefit during the years you

will live in the home, have a big deduction on your equity when you sell and privacy.

Owning a home can be inconvenient.

There is nothing liquid about a home if you need to sell, and there is a process, even in this favorable market. Monthly expenses can dramatically change in the face of a major repair bill or an increase in property taxes. And even though home ownership traditionally has been a good solid investment, we all saw during the financial crisis that property values can go down.

Renting has been frowned upon in the past by previous generations, but it’s getting another look from a large segment of the population, including young people who can’t afford the real estate environment we’re in and older people and professionals who can afford a home but choose not to buy at this time.

Whoever you are, renting is not what it once was, so leaving the housing market and going into the rental market may not be as easy as it sounds.

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JULY 13, 2022

LIFEGUARD: Shortage concern FROM PAGE 1

you can’t escape, float or tread water. If you need help, call or wave for assistance.”

“You can’t predict riptides - you don’t know when they’ll happen,” he said.

“A sea breeze could kick in and it could only take a one- to two-foot chop for it to happen.”

Manatee County is far from the only location where lifeguards are in short supply.

“There is a national shortage for lifeguards where one-third of the nation’s pools aren’t opening,” Westerman said.

“The ocean is different. We can’t close the door. People still come to the beach.”

He said the requirements to become a lifeguard are more stringent than some people may think.

“I could get 12 applicants and send out invitations to test and maybe one or two of them will show up,” he said.

According to the Beach Lifeguard I or II job posting by Manatee County, the following are among the job requirements: “Must be able to demonstrate successfully 50 meters of each of the following swim strokes in a pool: Freestyle, Breaststroke, Sidestroke and Back-

stroke. Must be able to run 1/2 mile in 3:30 minutes or less, swim 500 meters in open water in 10 minutes or less and demonstrate a non-equipment rescue of an active, panicked victim from 100 meters offshore. Must be able to demonstrate paddling a rescue board approximately 200 meters.”

“This is a physically demanding job.

They (our staff) are professionals and athletes,” Westerman said. “The 500-meter swim in 10 minutes is a nationallyset standard. There’s no deviation from that.”

Candidates must also be able to acquire and maintain American Heart Association CPR certification and First Responder/EMR or First-Aid Certification within 30 days of the hire date.

“First and foremost, get in the water and swim and be honest with yourself,” Westerman advises potential candidates. “Don’t just be satisfied with 500 meters, swim 1,000. Practice back, side and breaststrokes.”

The pay range for a Beach Lifeguard I is between $17.80 and $24.75 per hour.

“There are some pay-related issues,” among others, he said. “When COVID hit, people rethought what they wanted to do with their lives and in this job, you

are putting your life on the line.”

Westerman said there was a recent increase in offered pay and praised Manatee County commissioners for what he called their great support.

There is a $1 per hour incentive for those with an EMT license, and a $1 per hour incentive for Rescue Diver certification.

“Currently we have six state-certified EMTs and one state-certified paramedic on our roster,” he said. “If someone wants to become an EMT, they can be reimbursed for school.”

Lifeguards respond to water and landborne emergencies and provide rescues to beachgoers and boaters in the surf environment as well as on shore, and provide basic emergency medical care, according to an online job posting.

“We are the only entity besides the fire and police departments where we have seconds to make a decision to save someone’s life,” Westerman said. “This is with minimal equipment. We actively watch all day for something to happen.”

There is a community-oriented aspect to the job as well.

“We want people who are comfortable talking with the public and working around tourists,” Westerman said. “My wish list would be to have qualified candidates in a line out the door.”

For more information, visit mymanatee.org/jobs.

THE SUN

23

Top real estate producers for June 2022 A PARADISE

MICHAEL SAUNDERS

Helen Ross - Listing Quinton Talbert - Selling

Ken Kavanaugh Jr. - Selling

AN ISLAND PLACE REALTY

Marianne Norman-Ellis Listing & Selling

DUNCAN REAL ESTATE

Brenda Price – Listing Shellie Young - Selling

Sue Carlson Listing & Selling

MIKE NORMAN

PREMIER SOTHEBY

Darcie Duncan Listing & Selling

EDGEWATER REAL ESTATE Lynn Zemmer Listing & Selling

REMAX ALLIANCE GROUP Sharon Hightower – Listing Cindy Quinn - Selling

SALTY MERMAID REAL ESTATE

FRAN MAXON

Sharon and Tim Villars – Listing Stephanie Bell - Selling

Liz Blandford Listing & Selling

SATO REAL ESTATE

ISLAND REAL ESTATE

Jason Sato – Listing Barbara Sato - Selling

LOCALS REALTY GROUP

Chantelle Lewin – Listing Miguel Rosa - Selling

Liz Codola - Listing Alan Galletto – Selling

WAGNER REAL ESTATE

Ryan Hackney – Listing Team Sunshine Girls Selling

24

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THE SUN

JULY 13, 2022

VACATION

365 You’re closer to home than you think.

Check out Lakewood Ranch online or in person, and you’ll see why it’s the best-selling community in the country for all ages.

You won’t want to leave!

SHOPPING, DINING, ARTS & ENTERTAINMENT | PARKS & TR AILS | 20+ VILL AGES TO CHOOSE FROM SOCIA L AND SPORTS CLUBS | GOLF & R ACQUET SPORTS | THRIVING BUSINESS COMMUNIT Y TOP-R ATED SCHOOLS | NAMED BEST COMMUNIT Y LIFEST YLE PROGR AM *

NEW HOMES FROM THE $400S TO OVER $1 MILLION * *

*2022 Gold Award - National Association of Home Builders **Prices subject to change without notice. © 2022 Lakewood Ranch

20220510_LWR_VACA_365_WAVE_AD_AMI_10X13_mf3.indd 1

.com 5/18/22 8:59 AM

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JULY 13, 2022

OBITUARIES

cats, Killer and Pooky, brother, Mike Hopps; and sister, Paddy Hopps.

Lawrence Prescott Hopps Lawrence Prescott Hopps (Larry, Hammer), 76, passed away Monday, June 27, 2022. Graveside services will be on July 9, 2022 at 11 a.m. at Palma Sola Community Church, 8604 Ninth Ave. N.W., Bradenton, Florida 34209. Following the service, we will be having a celebration of life at The Anchor, 3007 Gulf Drive, Holmes Beach, Florida 34217.

Larry was born on Oct. 5, 1945 in Pontiac, Michigan to the late Nancy and George Hopps. Larry was a Vietnam veteran who served in the Army.

Larry worked for many years in his family’s motorcycle business in Waterford, Michigan and Anna Maria Island, Florida. He was also a maintenance supervisor for WDW MGM Studios. He loved motorcycles, Bob Seger songs, his cats, his family and hanging out at The Anchor with friends.

Larry is survived by his daughters, Kim Rogers, Andrea (James) Osborne, and Lori (Mike) Holland; sons, George Goers and Lance (Jennifer) Melnik; grandchildren, Josh Rogers, Jeremy (Kelsey) Rogers, Kayla Rogers, Tyler Webster, Travis (Shelby) Webster, Lane Osborne, Brooke Osborne, Kaylee Marcoe, Breanna Osborn, Tina Holland and Lawryn Holland; two great-grandchildren, Adaline Marcoe and Grady Rogers; along with many friends.

In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his wife, Loretta Hopps; his beloved

Dustin Matthew Allen Dustin Matthew Allen was born April 25, 1981, in Bradenton, and was a lifelong Holmes Beach resident.

Dustin was an employee of Wash Family Construction of Holmes Beach for more than 20 years and had recently started his own pressure washing business, Oceanside Exteriors. When he wasn’t working, Dustin enjoyed exploring the waterways and beaches of Anna Maria Island and the surrounding parks and preserves. He also was devoted to his family and friends and cherished his time with them.

Dustin is survived by his parents, Bill and Sharon Allen; siblings, Billy and Amber Allen; beloved nephews, Aiden Esformes and Milo Haseley; as well as many other friends and family members.

"We would like to offer a heartfelt thank you to our friends and family who have shown us much love as we endure our devastating loss of Dusty.

Your words have comforted us during our darkest hours, your support has strengthened us and your love for Dusty and our family has sustained us through these difficult days. Thank you from the bottom of our hearts for your expressions of love and sympathy. Please continue to pray for us as we heal and move forward." - Sharon Allen.

ANNA MARIA ISLAND 820 N Shore Drive 4 Beds 4/1 Baths 3,953 Sq. Ft. Kathy Harman 941-900-9828 A4524887 $3,999,999

ANNA MARIA ISLAND 421 Alamanda Road 4 Beds 4/1 Baths 2,116 Sq. Ft. Kathy Harman 941-900-9828 A4534408 $3,425,000

LONGBOAT KEY 537 Spinnaker Lane 3 Beds 3 Baths 2,046 Sq. Ft. Kathy Callahan 941-900-8088 A4536497 $2,375,000

TERRA CEIA 109 Michiana Drive 2 Beds 2/1 Baths 1,818 Sq. Ft. Debbie Vogler 941-705-3328 A4527498 $1,999,000

LONGBOAT KEY 2161 Gulf Of Mexico Drive PH3 4 Beds 4/1 Baths 6,002 Sq. Ft. Jenifer Schwell 941-780-0968 A4534425 $8,950,000

LONGBOAT KEY 518 Bayview Drive 3 Beds 2 Baths 1,740 Sq. Ft. Cathy Meldahl & Susan Smith 941-724-7228 A4534262 $1,595,000

LONGBOAT KEY 701 Penfield Street 2 Beds 2 Baths 1,736 Sq. Ft. Ian Addy, PA 941-961-8850 A4537570 $1,499,000

LONGBOAT KEY 775 Longboat Club Road 906 2 Beds 2 Baths 1,524 Sq. Ft. Lenore Treiman 941-356-9642 A4527843 $1,199,000

THE SUN

BEACH BEAT BRADENTON BEACH

7/3, 11:04 p.m., noise complaint, 2412 Gulf Drive. The officer arrived at Club Bamboo condos after a noise complaint about very loud music and yelling. The responding officer, along with two additional officers, checked the pool area and found nothing.

They then went to the room the complainant said the noise was coming from and found it to have only one occupant and no noise. When called back by police, the complainant did not answer the phone, so no further action was taken.

HOLMES BEACH

6/29, 11:03 p.m., warrant arrest/possession of controlled substance, 500 Manatee Ave. While on patrol, the officer found a man sleeping on the bus stop bench. According to the report, the man became belligerent and refused to give his name. After some time, the man gave his name and date of birth, which was given to dispatch. The man had a warrant for panhandling, so the officer placed him in handcuffs and secured him in the back of the patrol car. While

BRADENTON 7312 19th Avenue NW 3 Beds 2 Baths 2,160 Sq. Ft. Lynne Callahan 941-720-3278 A4538467 $1,100,000

25

searching the suspect’s backpack, a pipe and a small about of residue was found and tested positive for methamphetamine. When questioned about the drugs, the suspect began singing “I plead the fifth” over and over. The suspect was transported to jail by the Manatee County Sheriff’s Office and the drugs were placed into evidence.

7/4, 6:40 p.m., verbal domestic disturbance, 4200 block of Gulf Drive. The officer responded to 42nd Street and Gulf Drive about a domestic disturbance. The complainants said a black Rolls Royce pulled to the side of the road and a female stood outside yelling at the driver saying she did not want to get into the vehicle because the driver had just beat her. The witnesses said they did not see any physical altercation and the female did eventually get into the vehicle and it drove off. Officers made contact with the driver at his rental condo and he said he owned the Rolls Royce, but there was no altercation and they were both fine. The girlfriend said they had argued about where to go to dinner, but nothing else had happened. Neither the driver or the female passenger had any marks and there were no signs of a physical altercation. No charges were filed and no further action was taken.

LONGBOAT KEY 597 Bayview Drive 3 Beds 3 Baths 2,450 Sq. Ft. The Walter Group & Steve Walter 941-232-2000 A4537864 $2,750,000

LONGBOAT KEY 311 Firehouse Court 3 Beds 3/1 Baths 2,352 Sq. Ft. Cindy Fischer 941-465-1124 A4534473 $2,395,000

LAKEWOOD RANCH 17012 Verona Place 3 Beds 3/1 Baths 2,629 Sq. Ft. Deborah Angelo O'Mara 941-730-0777 A4535097 $1,899,000

LONGBOAT KEY 1465 Gulf Of Mexico Drive 504 3 Beds 3 Baths 1,837 Sq. Ft. Lindsay Nock 941-735-7005 A4534263 $1,775,000

LONGBOAT KEY 4311 Gulf Of Mexico Drive 401 2 Beds 2 Baths 1,293 Sq. Ft. Victoria Lear 941-350-1064 A4522542 $995,000

BRADENTON 5016 Mangrove Point Road 4 Beds 2 Baths 1,838 Sq. Ft. Kathy Valente & Gregory Zies, LLC 941-685-6767 A4538298 $995,000

941.896.9981 | MICHAELSAUNDERS.COM

26

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THE SUN

JULY 13, 2022

ANNE YARBROUGH | SUN

So long ‘til next summer Surfers at the West Coast Surf Shop surf camp say goodbye for the summer to their friends and instructor Brandi Brady and her crew.

www.amisun.com

JULY 13, 2022

THE SUN

GUY HARVEY: Foundation partners with AME FROM PAGE 1

“We are so excited, this is the first one of these in the country,” AME Principal Mike Masiello said. “It’s not just us that will benefit. During the summer, other schools will bus over to us to take advantage of what this Academy has to offer.”

In the near future, the district hopes to develop curricula for Guy Harvey Academies at King Middle School and Manatee High School in Bradenton. Masiello said this will be a benchmark that schools around the country can observe and adopt.

Dedicating most of his life to the environment, Dr. Harvey has devoted his talent, time and resources to protect oceans, fish populations and reef systems through the development of the Guy Harvey Research Institute at Nova Southeastern University and The Guy Harvey Ocean Foundation. Those institutions have made numerous contributions to protecting fish resources and biodiversity in the world’s oceans.

Harvey is also an internationally-known artist and his artwork is regularly featured in galleries, on apparel and on many other products. He holds a degree in Marine Biology from Aberdeen University in Scotland and a Doctorate in Fisheries Management from the University of West Indies.

SUBMITTED

The first-ever Guy Harvey Ocean Foundation partnership with a public school will be at Anna Maria Elementary, situated directly on the waterfront in Holmes Beach.

“I can’t tell you how honored and excited Jessica and I are to be working with you on the creation of the very first Guy Harvey Academy of the Arts and Sciences,” said Dr. Harvey in a video statement with his daughter, Jessica.

“We’re excited to bring a new generation of young people together who will make a difference in saving our oceans,” said Jessica Harvey, who serves as co-chair of GHOF. The agreement between the School Board of Manatee County and GHOF was signed and adopted at the June 28 board meeting. Doug

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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Evans, chief philanthropy officer for GHOF, was in attendance.

“I don’t think there could possibly be a better fit for the very first Guy Harvey Academy of Arts and Science than Anna Maria Elementary,” Evans said. “You can actually see the entrance to Tampa Bay and the Sunshine Skyway Bridge from the back of the school.”

The adopted Memorandum of Understanding included a detailed outline of what would be provided, how teacher training would take place and how the Academy would progress over the next five years. Year one includes the aquarium, training materials, educational materials and a certificate of completion for 5th-grade students who complete the program. Year two covers a plan to expand to the 6th-grade curriculum and establish a summer school program. Year three will see the development of 7th- and 8th-grade modules and the beginning of a high school program.

The memorandum also calls for joint efforts in fundraising initiatives for the initial collaboration of three years to support the development and expansion of the program.

27

AME alum honored Scott Makar, a former student at Anna Maria Elementary School, was honored as the 2022 Manatee High School Outstanding Alumnus in the Academic Achievement Category in May at the Seafood Shack in Cortez. A judge on the Florida First District Court of Appeal and a professor at the University of Florida, Makar holds the record for the most court cases argued before the U.S. Supreme Court of any state Solicitor General. He lives in Jacksonville with his wife, Nancy, and three children.

28

THE SUN

SPORTS

JULY 13, 2022

No mercy for Bridgetender, Fin

Golfers scramble on July 4

BY MONICA SIMPSON SPECIAL TO THE SUN

ANNA MARIA – Youth indoor soccer action at The Center passed the regular season midpoint last week with overwhelmingly dominant leads in the U9 and U13 leagues.

U9’s Ugly Grouper had a big 16-2 win with the strikes of Beau Sanson and Landon Leach, with a hat trick. Sanson scored 13 points in the new form of play, which includes no goalie on the pitch.

Leach also was credited with two assists, along with three critical passes leading to the goal by Silas Whitehead.

On the other side of the ball, Bridgetender Inn’s Paul ten Haaf put two strikes in the net, with an assist by Parker Suoboda. The team’s loss puts their season record at 1-3.

In more U9 action, Blalock Walters and Solid Rock Construction finished last week tied in the middle of the pack with 2-2 records. In week four play, the Solid Rock team beat Blalock Walters by two goals, 3-1.

Matthew Darak and Isaac Roadman were the scoring pair for Solid Rock. Darak put two in and Roadman had a single goal in the all-important, season-tying game.

Olivia Wyatt prevented the shutout with a solo goal in game four.

The 12-2 blowout by Progressive Cabinetry in the U13 league was a true team effort, with four of the five players scoring and three players credited with assists.

With four goals, Barrett Raina topped the week’s scoring chart. Teammates Jackson Wyatt and Alonso Valle both had hat tricks in addition to the two goals by Mattox Caseman.

Caseman and Valle each had single assists in the lopsided match-up. Progressive Cabinetry’s Ethan Angel made two critical assists in the victory.

Freckled Fin’s loss was not without a

MONICA SIMPSON | SUN

The youngest indoor soccer players take to The Center’s court for skills training and fun play in the U6 league. valiant effort by the entire team. Chandler McRae and Briahna Robertson each put points on the scoreboard, with an assist by Tucker McRae. Team Shady Lady and Freckled Fin share the bottom rung of the league’s ranking going into week five of the season.

Shady Lady kept it a close game against Moss Builders, now with a 2-2 record. Moss Builders’ win came at the skillful feet of Callin Westfall, Mason Moss and Riley Karecki.

With two goals each in the game, Moss and Westfall continue to consistently score for their team. Westfall also had a recorded assist for the Moss Builders team.

Spreading out the scoring for Shady Lady, Amelia Blunkall, Braelyn Curtis, Alex Monserrate and Jesse Zaccagnino each scored one of the four team goals. Assisting with the scoring for Shady Lady was Ava Mason.

Progressive Cabinetry goes into week five undefeated. Can the team finish the week with another win against Moss Builders with just one more week left before playoffs?

SUN SCOREBOARD JULY 5 YOUTH INDOOR SOCCER WEEK FOUR - U9 Ugly Grouper (3-1-0) Bridgetender Inn (1-3-0)

Solid Rock Construction (3-1-0) Blalock Walters (1-3-0)

U13

Progressive Cabinetry (4-0-0) Freckled Fin (1-3-0) Moss Builders (2-2-0) Shady Lady (1-3-0)

16 2 3 1

12 2 5 4

The annual Fourth of July Scramble at Key Royale Club brought 59 golfers out to the course.

A three-way tie for first place with a score of 30 (2 under par) was won by the teams of Debbie and Larry Milder, Chas Porter and Margrit Layh; Bill Merrill, Mark Merrill, Ron Vanderman and Betsy Grundy; and Jeff Jump, Randy Jump, Kurt Snouffer and Dan Hamilton.

Winning the long drive contest for the ladies was Lori Waggoner. Steve Vasbinder won for the men. David Johnson won closest to the pin on hole #3. Following the event, the golfers enjoyed brats, dogs, salads and dessert along with their favorite beverage.

A July 7 shamble counted the best two scores from the group. The winners are: First Place – with a score of 66, 2 over par – Mike Clements, Tom Nelson and Rich Salzburg; Second Place – with a score of 68, 4 over par – Mike Gillie, Jim Hill, Jerry Martinek and Kurt Snouffer.

JULY 13, 2022

FUN IN THE SUN

ACROSS 1 Handy tension reliever 11 Kick back 15 "Aww!" 16 Fair 17 Places for posers 18 Banh mi spread 19 Nonsense 20 Fabric types 21 Racer with a crew 22 Pasture mom 24 Exchange membership 25 Trumpet 26 Guiding lights?

28 Leaves on the sly 30 Pub order 31 Architectural deets 33 Omission indications 35 In 37 Instrument akin to an oud Answers to 07-06-22 Crossword Puzzle.

38 Bucolic 42 From then on 45 Tony-winning playwright Ensler 46 Prepare to show some muscle 48 Pets 50 From around here 52 One way to start 54 Reason to go green?

55 Desktop assortment 56 Software to debug 58 Very long time 59 "Pretty please?"

60 Let others talk 62 Inserts, say 63 Event necessitated by a move, perhaps 64 Bridge site 65 "Why the tears?"

DOWN 1 Moving multitudes 2 Speakers often clear them 3 Dilapidated digs 4 Space-saving abbr.

5 La Jolla scientific research institute namesake 6 Medical procedures 7 Keeps occupied 8 On the line 9 MRI technician's request 10 "__ Djinns": Franck symphonic poem 11 Century 21 rival 12 Ambitious track wagers 13 See-through device 14 Piccolo sounds 21 Confident response after being doubted 23 Straight up 27 Underwater groups 29 __-size 32 HomePod Mini voice 34 Diagonally cut pasta 36 Vine fruit that can be dried and used as a container 38 Smoothie King Center NBAer 39 California state fruit 40 Duel personalities

41 Some sleep on it 43 Mall features 44 "Ta-da!"

47 Watched a boxer, say 49 Matched, as movie

THE SUN

sound and action 51 Star __: five-spice ingredient 53 Juice amounts?

57 Word before "A

29

Lady" or "A Woman," in two old Top 10 songs 60 Bench for a flock 61 Spanish pronoun

30

THE SUN

CLASSIFIED

ANNOUNCEMENTS

FISHING CHARTERS

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

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

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.

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

CLEANING SERVICE 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 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.

Call us today! 941-778-3986

FOR SALE 20 " ADULT FOLDABLE TRICYCLE - Gray color Cost new - over $300 Looks like new $150 Call 941-524-4760 TOPPER FOR F150 Long bed. $100 or Best Offer.

Call 941-705-7560.

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

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

KERN CONSTRUCTION NEW Homes & Remodel.

Design/Build. Since 1968.

License # 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.

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

MASSAGE MASSAGE BY VINNIE Swedish Deep Tissue And More By Appointment Only Call 773-383-0463 Vinnie LMT,CMCE

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

JULY 13, 2022

PROFESSIONAL PAINTING SERVICES. Prompt & Reliable. Island Resident.

Quality Workmanship.

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

REALTOR FOR HIRE. BUYING OR SELLING on AMI? 17 years experience & USAF Veteran.

Call Kelly Gitt Keller Williams Realty today 941-799-9299.

DONALD PERKINS ABRACADABRA PAINTING LLC fully insured. 30 years experience. Many Island references. Call 941-705-7096

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 513-382-1992.

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.

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

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

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

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

www.amisun.com

JULY 13, 2022

BUSINESS & SERVICE DIRECTORY HOME IMPROVEMENT

HOME IMPROVEMENT

THE SUN

31

Call today to place your ad: 941-778-3986 PAINTING

TRANSPORTATION

32

www.amisun.com

THE SUN

JULY 13, 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