Anna Maria Island Sun June 12, 2024

Bright outlook

Four candidates qualify in Anna Maria

The Anna mayor’s race will include Brian Seymour and Mark Short.

BY JOE HENDRICKS SUN CORRESPONDENT | jhendricks@amisun.com

ANNA MARIA – The first week of Anna Maria’s two-week candidate qualifying period saw city commission chair Mark Short and former city commissioner Brian Seymour qualify to face each other in the race to succeed departing Mayor Dan Murphy. Seymour is the business owner of the

Anna Maria General Store on Pine Avenue and the co-owner/ operator of the City Pier Grill business that leases city-owned space on the Anna Maria City Pier. Incumbent Commissioner Gary McMullen qualified to run for a city commission seat, as did former charter review committee Chairperson Chris Arendt. McMullen

Suspect charged in Sunny Shores shooting

Gunfire in Cortez on Thursday night left two victims injured and one male suspect in custody, according to MCSO.

BY JASON SCHAFFER SUN CORRESPONDENT | jschaffer@amisun.com

CORTEZ - A suspect is in custody charged with three counts of aggravated assault with a firearm and one count of battery after a shooting at the Sunny Shores Mobile Home Park the night of June 6.

According to a Manatee County Sheriff's Office press release, Kevin R. Armstrong allegedly confronted a 33-year-old female who arrived at a residence in the 3900 block of 116th Street West around 8:08 p.m. with two males on a golf cart to retrieve some personal items.

Detectives said that Armstrong and the female victim had been in a domestic relationship, and

SEE SHOOTING, PAGE 23

Mayor accepts responsibility for misplacement of palms

to a full two-year term. Arendt seeks his first city commission term.

Short qualifying to run in the mayor’s race means he must vacate his current city commission seat, win or lose, after the general election in November.

SEE ANNA MARIA, PAGE 19

FDOT mandated the May 24 removal of 19 Gulf Drive trees due to safety concerns.

SUN CORRESPONDENT | llake@amisun.com

BRADENTON BEACH – At the June 5 Community Redevelopment Agency (CRA) meeting, Mayor John Chappie accepted responsibility for the Florida Department of Transportation-mandated removal of the newly-planted coconut palm trees on Gulf Drive.

“I did make a mistake at the beginning when we had the 19 palms that were planted in the FDOT right-of-way and that’s all on me,” Chappie said.

The trees were planted the week of April 24 on the Gulf Drive South

roundabout and traffic islands as part of a CRA-approved project that included Bridge Street. The $50,000 coconut palm project is a publicprivate partnership between the city and developer Shawn Kaleta’s Beach to Bay Investments LLC.

That portion of Gulf Drive South is a state road and falls under the jurisdiction of the FDOT. The city was notified by FDOT that coconut palm trees are not allowed on state roads due to safety concerns about visibility, along with falling fronds and coconuts.

“Darryl (FDOT Scenic Highway Coordinator Darryl Richard) was very kind and very efficient with trying to get ahold of us,” Chappie said. “Once he got ahold of us I was out of town for a week at the

PALMS, PAGE 21

SEE

RUSTY CHINNIS | SUN

A fishing guide approaches the Longboat Key town dock in Longboat Village at dawn to pick up his charter client for the day. Armstrong

Drainage improvement project progressing

BY LESLIE LAKE SUN CORRESPONDENT | llake@amisun.com

BRADENTON BEACH - City Attorney Ricinda Perry updated commissioners on June 6 about the drainage project on Avenues A and B.

“This commission made a major improvement to an area in need without burdening the taxpayers,” Perry said of the $2.69 million appropriation from the state for the drainage project on Avenues A and B. Perry gave a history of the project that included changes in engineering companies as well as changes to the plans, and reported the latest progress.

“I’m pleased to tell you today that we’ve gotten a major segment of B done,” she said.

Public Works staff was used to clean off walkways to prepare for milling of the road.

“High tides I can’t do anything about when the water comes on the road, but at least we have a little bit of something there to catch it,” Perry said. “We got that retention area built and it’s functioning.”

Perry said all the catch basins are done on Avenue B and the subbase on half of Avenue A is being removed.

“That was a big part of what we originally said we wanted to do. I’m coming in on budget,” Perry said.

“Commissioner Scaccianoce said Avenue B is pretty rough all the way down.”

Perry said she worked with Woodruff Construction and Superior Paving and found a way to pitch the road and make some corrections to send the water to existing catch basins.

“I can give proper flow that didn’t exist,” she said. “We found some of the road was inverted and it was collecting in there and it wasn’t letting the water run off into the catch basin. We made decisions to crown it and direct it into the catch basins so there’s been a lot of stormwater work.”

She reported that all of Avenue B is going to be paved and the subbase of Avenue A is being rebuilt.

“I had talked to each of you individually about some of this extra cost in getting through A,” Perry

said. “They were willing basically to give me a great deal to get these added pieces of paving in, including the elbows off of A. I would be able to do all that but I needed an additional $70,000 to get there, which is quite a bargain for all of this paving, so I talked to Shayne (City Treasurer Shayne Thompson) and Chief (John Cosby) and we do have funding available for that.”

Perry said the city has stormwater money that had been set aside for LTA (the original project engineer) to do a match with the Southwest Florida Water Management District (SWFWMD) with a 50/50 agreement for Avenue B.

“We decided to depart and we had a meeting with SWFWMD about how to undo that because it was married to the Avenue C project,” Perry said. “That’s been stopped. That means the money we’ve been collecting for that stormwater is available. So what I’m talking about is tapping into that stormwater money and the shortfall that I would have.”

She said the whole block of Avenue B is deteriorated.

“I need your blessing tonight that if there is a shortfall that I can use the stormwater funds in order to cover that expense. I’m asking for it to be up to $70,000,” Perry said.

Perry said the extra paving would be on 26th Street, 23rd Street, two elbows off of Avenue A, and all of Avenue B.

A motion was made to approve an amount not to exceed $70,000 of the stormwater line item to be determined by the treasurer. The motion passed unanimously.

Perry noted that she needed to have the project completed by June 30.

Based on Woodruff’s recommendation that moving the existing catch basins on 20th Place may result in driving water into people’s driveways, Perry requested that commissioners make a motion to eliminate the paving on 20th Place.

“The last thing I want to do with this project is compound someone’s flooding issue,” she said. The motion passed unanimously.

ISLAND NEWS

IN BRIEF

Center request, charter amendments on agenda

The Anna Maria City Commission will meet on Thursday, June 13 at 2 p.m. After general public comment on non-agenda items, the commission is expected to vote on two funding requests sought by The Center of Anna Maria Island. Center Executive Director Chris Culhane previously requested $50,000 to help pay for the pending replacement of The Center’s aging air conditioning system and $28,000 to offset the costs of a completed bathroom remodeling and shower installation project. The mayor will seek commission approval to replace the roof on the city-owned Island Players’ building. The building department general manager will provide the commission with an update on multi-city efforts to locally regulate mangroves. The city clerk will present the proposed summer meeting and budget meeting schedules. The commission will vote on whether to place five proposed charter amendments on the November ballot. The mayor and city attorney will present the first reading of a special event permit ordinance. The mayor will seek commission approval of his latest Reimagining Pine Avenue plan. The mayor will provide an update on a vacation rental bill that awaits the governor’s final approval or rejection and will also provide a City Pier update. To attend and/or participate in Thursday’s meeting by phone, call 1-929-205-6099 and enter the meeting ID: 85392000280.

Sign up for citizens academy

Manatee County leaders are looking for engaged community members to join the county Neighborhood Ambassador Citizens Academy. The academy will meet every Wednesday from 6-7:30 p.m. from Aug. 7 through Sept. 25 at the Lakewood Ranch Library, 16410 Rangeland Pkwy., Bradenton. An exception will be the Aug. 14 session, which will meet at the Central Library, 1301 Barcarrota Ave. in Bradenton. The academy is open to all residents aged 18 and older with a desire to learn about local government and interact with community leaders and county staff. Anyone who wants to get a behind-the-scenes look at how the county government operates can register online at https://www.mymanatee. org/departments/neighborhood_services/ neighborhood_connections/citizens_academy.

One lane traffic from June 17-19

Bradenton Beach Police Chief John Cosby announced at a June 6 commission meeting that the repaving of Gulf Drive South is scheduled for June 17-19. During the project, traffic will be one lane beginning approximately 40 feet north of Seventh Street South to 13th Street South.

Scan this code with your smartphone to go there.

District 3 primary pits Siddique against Culbreath

April Culbreath was suspended and reprimanded several times during her tenure with the Manatee County Sheriff’s Office.

BY JOE HENDRICKS SUN CORRESPONDENT | jhendricks@amisun.com

MANATEE

COUNTY – The District 3 Manatee County Commission race reshaped by incumbent Commissioner Kevin Van Ostenbridge’s switch to the District 7 at-large race sets up a Republican primary race between Tal Siddique and former District 7 candidate April Culbreath.

Whitmore endorsement

The winner of the Republican primary that concludes on Aug. 20 will face Democratic candidate Diana Shoemaker in the general election that follows.

District 3 represents all three Anna Maria Island cities, Cortez and portions of Longboat Key, west Bradenton, Bradenton and Rubonia.

On June 3, Siddique provided The Sun with the following statement regarding Culbreath’s decision to exit the District 7 at-large race and enter the District 3 race after Van Ostenbridge switched races.

“Since entering this race in September 2023, I am proud to have sustained a conservative, grassroots movement behind me,” Siddique stated. “I am running my campaign as I have since the beginning with a focus on improving the quality of life for District 3 residents. I encourage readers to read the facts about my opponent’s disturbing police record and her poor performance as chair of the Manatee GOP, where she sought to benefit herself over the party. I don’t have to play musical chairs to better my chances of winning like other unqualified and unfit candidates. I am the only serious District 3 candidate with the community support needed to restore trust with the county government.”

On June 4, Siddique issued a press release announcing the endorsement he received from former Manatee County Commissioner, former Holmes Beach Mayor and current city commission candidate Carol Whitmore. The press release included this statement from Whitmore: “I have had the pleasure of getting to know Tal through his deep commitment to understanding all facets of Manatee County and through his active participation in numerous civic organizations, including the Bradenton Kiwanis. Tal’s family has deep roots in Manatee County, and I have personally known them and their community involvement for decades. Tal and his wife, Kristen Truong, embody the energy and passion we need from our young leaders to build a better future for Manatee County. I believe he is exceptionally qualified to represent his constituents on the Board of County Commissioners, and I hope you will join me in supporting his candidacy.”

The press release also noted that Siddique received previous endorsements from Holmes Beach Mayor Judy Titsworth and Holmes Beach Police Chief Bill Tokajer.

Culbreath campaign

According to her campaign website, “April Allison Culbreath has served Manatee County as a sheriff’s deputy for 27 years. Over the course of her 30-year career in public service, including three years in emergency medical services, she has served in almost every possible law enforcement capacity. She counts her greatest accomplishments to be her services as a Crimes Against Children detective and her volunteer work as deputy advisor to troubled Manatee County youth.

“April entered the political realm in 2016, when she began volunteering locally for the Republican Party. She has served in multiple Manatee County Republican leadership positions. Now retired from law enforcement due to injuries sustained in the line of duty, she looks forward to continued service as a Manatee County Commissioner.”

Her campaign website also notes, “Together with her husband, Duane, she is raising three teenagers. April and her family are committed to their Christian faith and to the Manatee County community.”

Culbreath is currently named as the defendant in a civil lawsuit filed on May 20 regarding her actions as the chairperson of the Manatee County Republican Executive Committee. Incumbent committee member Michael Keegan filed the lawsuit seeking an emergency injunction to prevent Culbreath from removing an incumbent committee member without due process, denying a member’s access to a committee meeting, denying a committee member’s voting rights and eliminating the committee’s dual signature requirement for financial disbursements.

A lawsuit-related declaration filed by Keegan states the executive committee treasurer and secretary both resigned in December because of their civil and criminal liability exposure created by “Culbreath’s ongoing financial malfeasance and abuse of executive committee funds.”

Police record

The Sun emailed Culbreath’s campaign email account on June 6 seeking her comments on the District 3 race and some of the incidents cited below. As of press time, she had not responded.

Culbreath’s 12-page Manatee County Sheriff's Office Professional Standards Employee Resumé lists several internal affairs investigations regarding her actions.

In 1999, Culbreath received verbal counseling as a disciplinary action pertaining to her responding to a call without being dispatched or notifying dispatch, and also for gathering information not included on MCSO forms.

In 2000, she received a letter of reprimand for failing to preserve evidence.

In 2001, she received a letter of reprimand for driving an MCSO vehicle out of the county to her residence without permission.

City’s busy sidewalks to be repaired

Police Chief John Cosby, serving as interim public works director, lays out plans for improvements to city sidewalks.

BY LESLIE LAKE SUN CORRESPONDENT | llake@amisun.com

BRADENTON BEACH – Police

Chief John Cosby, who is serving as interim public works director, told the Community Redevelopment Agency (CRA) about upcoming improvements, including sidewalk repairs, at its June 5 meeting.

Improvements in the CRA district will include sidewalk leveling and repairs to alleviate tripping hazards, the proposed purchase of a custom-made pressure washer, new garbage receptacles along Bridge Street and increased days of trash pickup.

“They’ll start at the pier and work their way down to the circle at Gulf Drive and go up here to city hall at Second and down to Third to make sure everything is picked up and cleaned up.”

Cosby said on every Thursday, the sidewalks will be blown off and a street sweeper will come down the road to clean up that debris.

“We were only doing that once a month. Now we’ll be doing that every week,” he said.

Cosby said after walking the CRA district with the public works crew, they found tripping hazards in several areas in the sidewalks. He said the city is responsible for all the sidewalks that have shell alongside, including those on Gulf Drive.

“We’ve got the machine and they’re leveling those tripping hazards off,” Cosby said. “A few years ago we had a couple of people who had tripped at different locations and had some serious facial injuries.”

“Any trash that was out there was only tended to once a week,” Cosby said, adding that the first thing every Monday, Wednesday and Friday, unless it’s raining, the street will be policed for trash.

currently serving as interim public works director, lays out plans for maintenance upgrades at the June 5 CRA meeting.

Within the next several weeks, maintenance crews will be replacing sidewalks that are crumbled or crushed in the CRA district, he said.

“The team is able to do that,” Cosby said. “The shell will be put back in the way it was, we’ll just have some new sections and we do have quite a few areas of that where it’s cracked severely.”

Cosby said he will be bringing back to the CRA suggestions about the public works department obtaining a custom-made pressure washer, which would be a 500-gallon tank on a trailer.

“It’s not going to be cheap. But that will allow us to pressure wash the sidewalks, pressure wash the brick in the CRA district and clean the swing sets at the parks,” he said. “This will also allow us to clean the new white signs that are going up. Hopefully, we’re not going to make it too big so we can utilize it on the pier. Right now we have a small pressure washer.”

Cosby said the pressure washer would be designed with a hose reel on it so it can be used for watering.

“Keep in mind we’re paying $3,500 for the HERC truck to do this (watering). By the time we’re done what we’re doing, we could have bought the system we’re talking about,” he said.

Public works employee David Higgins also presented options for new garbage receptacles in the CRA district.

Cosby has been serving as interim public works director since the May resignation of former director Tom Woodard.

“Since we’re planning on delaying hiring a public works director until we figure out what is happening with OPPAGA and what the state is going to do with regards to whatever it is they’re going to do, we’re going to hold off on that because it would not be fair to hire somebody and find out there’s nothing to come to so we’re going to wait,” Cosby said, referring to a proposal to consolidate or eliminate the Island cities, thus eliminating city employees.

“I’m planning on hiring the position we have for the CRA, that’s been in the CRA budget for the last 2.5 years,” Cosby said. “Their work schedule would be Thursday, Friday, Saturday, Sunday, Monday - that way over the weekend we can make sure the trash is taken care of and any other issues that may come up over the weekend and held keep it tidy.”

OPINION

The Anna Maria Island Sun Staff

Owner/CEO

Mike Field

Editor

Cindy Lane

General Manager

Bob Alexander

Reporters/Photographers

Joe Hendricks

Leslie Lake

Jason Schaffer

Kristin Swain

Columnists

Louise Bolger

Rusty Chinnis

Contributors

Steve Borggren

Capt. Rick Grassett

Monica Simpson

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

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Accounting

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Co-founding publishers

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LETTERS TO THE EDITOR

Fond farewell

I was saddened to hear that Mayor Dan Murphy had decided not to run for reelection. But only for a minute, because I quickly realized how fortunate Anna Maria has been to have him as mayor

for the past 10 years. He has not only been honest but also strong in his attempt to keep Anna Maria, Anna Maria in the face of powerful forces. His accomplishments are many but none greater than the rebuilding of the City Pier. With his vision and hard work, it should be in place for the world to enjoy for many decades to come.

Drop us a line

Got an opinion, a complaint or a compliment? Is there something you need to get off your chest? Send us a letter to the editor and have your say. There are a couple of ways to do it. The easiest and most direct is to email The Sun at news@amisun.com. Remember to put Letter to the Editor in the subject field. Or you can snail-mail

a letter to us at The Anna Maria Island Sun, P.O. Box 1189, Anna Maria, FL 34216. Letters should be kept to 300 words or less and must contain your name and the city in which you reside. Personal attacks and obscene language will not be printed. The Sun reserves the right to edit letters for length or content. The

I have witnessed Anna Maria mayors for the last 50 years and it is not a stretch to say he has been the best I've seen. So, I thank Dan and his wife, Barbara, for what they have given the city. Enjoy your well-deserved retirement.

Doug Copeland Anna Maria

WEDNESDAY, JUNE 12

Let’s Recycle with Manatee County, Island Branch Library, 5701 Marina Drive, Holmes Beach, 10 a.m.

OneBlood donations on the Bloodmobile, Island Branch Library, 5701 Marina Drive, Holmes Beach, 10 a.m.

One-on-one tech help, Island Branch Library, 5701 Marina Drive, Holmes Beach, 2-4 p.m. Island Time Book Club, Island Branch Library, 5701 Marina Drive, Holmes Beach, 6:30 p.m.

THURSDAY, JUNE 13

One-on-one tech help, Island Branch Library, 5701 Marina Drive, Holmes Beach, 10 a.m. to noon

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

AMI Chamber of Commerce luncheon, Westminster Manor, 1700 21st Ave. W., Bradenton, 11:30 a.m., $22 for members or $30 for prospective members

Sunshine Stitchers Knit and Crochet, Island Branch Library, 5701 Marina Drive, Holmes Beach, 1 p.m.

FRIDAY, JUNE 14

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

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

Rock garden painting for kids, Island Branch Library, 5701 Marina Drive, 2 p.m.

SATURDAY, JUNE 15

Mornings at the NEST, Robinson Preserve Mosaic Nest, 840 99th St. N.W., Bradenton, 9 a.m. to noon Meditation, Island Branch Library, 5701 Marina Drive, Holmes Beach, 10 a.m.

MONDAY, JUNE 17

Gentle yoga, Island Branch Library, 5701 Marina Drive, Holmes Beach, 10 a.m.

Digital sketchbook studio, Island Branch Library, 5701 Marina Drive, Holmes Beach, 2 p.m.

Tuesday, June 18

Turtle Tracks and Shorebird Facts, Holmes Beach City Hall, 5801 Marina Drive, Holmes Beach, 10 a.m.

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

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

Hollywood Comes to AMI, Island Branch Library, 5701 Marina Drive, Holmes Beach, 3 p.m.

WEDNESDAY, JUNE 19

Tree planting maintenance, Robinson Preserve expansion, 840 99th St. N.W., Bradenton 8-10 a.m.

One-on-one Tech Help, Island Branch Library, 5701 Marina Drive, Holmes Beach, 2-4 p.m.

THURSDAY, JUNE 20

Seashell Shore Walk, Coquina Beach, 2650 Gulf Drive S., Bradenton Beach, meet at the Longboat Key Bridge, 9 a.m.

Bits ‘n Pieces Puppets: The Adventures of Robin Hood, Island Branch Library, 5701 Marina Drive, Holmes Beach, 10 a.m.

One-on-one Tech Help, Island Branch Library, 5701 Marina Drive, Holmes Beach, 10 a.m. to noon.

Sunshine Stitchers Knit and Crochet, Island Branch Library, 5701 Marina Drive, Holmes Beach, 1 p.m.

Bay ROVers underwater robotics course, Robinson Preserve Mosaic Nest, 840 99th St. N.W.,

Bradenton, 1-5 p.m. Contact aedan.stockdale@mymanatee.org to register

FRIDAY, JUNE 21

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

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

Bay ROVers underwater robotics course, Robinson Preserve Mosaic Nest, 840 99th St. N.W., Bradenton, 1-5 p.m. Contact aedan.stockdale@mymanatee.org to register

SATURDAY, JUNE 22

Mornings at the NEST, Robinson Preserve Mosaic Nest, 840 99th St. N.W., Bradenton, 9 a.m. to noon

TUESDAY, JUNE 25

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

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

Turtle Tracks and Shorebird Facts, Holmes Beach City Hall, 5801 Marina Drive, Holmes Beach,noon

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.

June 13, 2 p.m. – City Commission meeting

June 19, all day – City offices closed, Juneteenth

June 27, 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.

June 19, all day – City offices closed, Juneteenth June 20, noon – City Commission meeting

June 26, 10 a.m. – Pier Team meeting

HOLMES BEACH

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

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

June 12, 9 a.m. – Clean Water Ad-hoc Committee meeting

June 19, all day – City offices closed, Juneteenth

June 25, 10 a.m. – Code Compliance special magistrate hearing

June 25, 2 p.m. – City Commission meeting with work session to follow

ISLAND-WIDE

June 18, 6 p.m. – West Manatee Fire Rescue board meeting, administration building, 701 63rd St. W., Bradenton

June 26, 2 p.m. – Coalition of Barrier Island Elected Officials meeting, Anna Maria City Hall

Turtle Watch reports increased number of false crawls

BY LESLIE LAKE SUN CORRESPONDENT | llake@amisun.com

ANNA MARIA ISLAND – Kristen Mazzarella, executive director of Anna Maria Island Turtle Watch and Shorebird Monitoring, is reporting a lot of sea turtle false crawls on Anna Maria Island in the past week.

“We never know exactly why a sea turtle false crawls, but usually the ratio of nests to false crawls is about 1 to 1,” Mazzarella wrote in an email to The Sun. “When we see a higher ratio, it usually indicates something is amiss.”

False crawls occur when a female turtle comes ashore but does not deposit any eggs, and then reenters the water.

Mazzarella said there may be two likely reasons for the increased number of false crawls.

“We have not had much/any rain on the Island for so long that the sand is getting very dry. When turtles try to dig into really dry sand, their nest cavities cave in. Therefore, they may be having a hard time finding a good place to dig a nest on the beach without it caving in.”

The second possible reason is that

turtles may be disturbed by people or by lights from people walking on the beach at night.

“We don't recommend that people walk on the beach at night during turtle nesting season because they might inadvertently bump into a turtle or shine a light on a nesting turtle, causing them to spook and return to the water without nesting,” she wrote. “Local ordinances prohibit the use of lights on the beach to protect sea turtles (both adults and hatchlings). AMITW conducts our patrols in the morning so that we do not disturb nesting turtles at night.”

TURTLE TIPS

During sea turtle season, May 1 – Oct. 31, follow these tips to help turtles:

• Turn off lights visible from the beach and close blinds from sundown to sunrise; lights confuse nesting sea turtles and may cause them to go back to sea and drop their eggs in the water, where they won’t hatch. Light can also

attract hatchlings away from the water.

• Don’t use flashlights, lanterns or camera flashes on the beach at night.

• Remove all beach chairs and other objects from the sand from sundown to sunrise; they can deter sea turtles from nesting and disorient hatchlings.

• Fill in the holes you dig in the sand before leaving the beach; they can trap nesting and hatching sea turtles, which cannot live long out of the water. You might also accidentally dig into an unmarked nest. To report large holes or other turtle obstacles, call:

• City of Anna Maria code enforcement — 941-708-6130, ext. 111.

• City of Bradenton Beach code enforcement — 941-778-1005, ext. 227.

• City of Holmes Beach code enforcement — 941-778-0331, ext. 260.

• Level sandcastles before leaving the beach; they can block hatchlings from the water.

• Don’t use balloons, wish lanterns or fireworks; they litter the beach and Gulf, and turtles can ingest the debris.

• Do not trim trees and plants that shield the beach from lights.

• Never touch a sea turtle; it’s the

law. If you see people disturbing turtles, call the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission’s Wildlife Alert hotline at 888-404FWCC (3922).

Source: Anna Maria Island Turtle Watch and Shorebird Monitoring

NESTING NEWS

Turtle nests laid: 184 (Record: 544 in 2019)

False crawls: 267 (Record: 831 in 2010)

Nests hatched: 0 (Record: 453 in 2022)

Hatchlings hatched: 0 (Record: 35,850 in 2022)

Hatchling disorientations: 0

Adult disorientations: 0

Source: Anna Maria Island Turtle Watch and Shorebird Monitoring

Least tern numbers increasing

Anna Maria Island Turtle Watch and Shorebird Monitoring reminds beachgoers to keep their distance from least tern nests.

BY LESLIE LAKE

SUN CORRESPONDENT | llake@amisun.com

BRADENTON BEACH – A colony of least terns is continuing to grow and now has 36 birds with 20 of those sitting on eggs in the sand.

Anna Maria Island Turtle Watch and Shorebird Monitoring has been watching the nesting birds at an undisclosed location that has been roped off since nesting began the week of May 6.

As the eggs begin to hatch, beachgoers are cautioned to watch for chicks crossing beach access points.

Turtle Watch volunteers have placed “chick fencing” near the beach access along with “chick huts” within the enclosure to shade the chicks and protect them from predators.

Least terns are listed as a threatened species in Florida. The population has declined in the last 10 years and estimates suggest the species is vulnerable to extinction if their current threats are not addressed, according to a press release from Turtle Watch.

Least terns become agitated by disturbances by people as well as avian predators. Birds may fly away from their nests, leaving eggs and chicks vulnerable.

“Avian predators such as fish crows and laughing gulls harass nesting birds and have been documented to eat unattended eggs and newborn

chicks,” according to Turtle Watch Shorebird Coordinator Kathy Doddridge.

One way to manage the threat of fish crows is by using crow effigies – a likeness made from plastic and feathers to mimic dead crows.

The placement of effigies near nesting colonies is a management tool used to scare crows away and reduce the number of crows in a specific area.

Turtle Watch volunteers have placed two effigies in the area of the least tern colony.

Turtle Watch offers the following reminders to beachgoers:

• Keep your distance. If birds become agitated or leave their nests you are too close. A general rule is to stay at least 300 feet away from a nest;

• Respect posted areas. Avoid

posted nesting and resting areas and use designated walkways;

• Never intentionally force any birds to fly. When birds are chased or disturbed, they use the energy they need to reserve for nesting and migration;

• Pets are not allowed on Anna Maria Island beaches. Keep cats indoors;

• Keep the beach clean and do not feed wildlife. Food scraps attract predators such as raccoons and crows to the beaches. Litter on beaches can entangle birds;

• Spread the word. If you see people disturbing nesting birds, gently remind them how their actions may hurt birds' survival. If they continue to disturb nesting birds, report their activities to FWC's Wildlife Alert hotline at 888-404-FWCC (3922).

DISTRICT 3: Siddique and Culbreath

FROM PAGE 4

In 2004, she received a letter of reprimand for failing to properly secure her weapon in her holster, which resulted in her handgun falling out and being discovered on the ground.

In 2005, she was suspended 86 hours without pay after she failed to respond and conduct an investigation, as ordered by a supervisor.

In 2005, she was suspended for 129 hours without pay for having sex while on duty.

In 2006, she received a 387-hour suspension for allegedly attending a wedding reception and being observed dancing in a suggestive manner while in uniform.

In 2009, she received a 17-hour suspension without pay for disrespecting her supervisor by using profane and obscene language because she was called in to respond to an assignment.

In 2009, she received an 8.6-hour suspension without pay after she failed to respond to a missing child call as directed by her supervisor.

In 2011, she received a 258-hour suspension without pay for an off-duty incident in which she allegedly became involved in an altercation when obtaining her own medical records and allegedly punching an employee in the face.

In 2015, she received a verbal reprimand for the misuse of the Driver And Vehicle Information Database (D.A.V.I.D.) utilized by the sheriff’s office.

According to The Bradenton Herald, in 2010, Culbreath (then known as Dugan) was involved in a disciplinary case. Capt. Kristin Kennedy told investigators she kissed Det. Dugan the previous year and then had two subsequent intimate encounters with her.

Water quality advisory issued for Palma Sola South

LESLIE LAKE SUN CORRESPONDENT | llake@amisun.com

BRADENTON - The Florida Department of Health in Manatee County (DOH-Manatee) has issued a water quality advisory for Palma Sola South, located on the east end of the Palma Sola Causeway and the south side of Manatee Avenue West.

Tests on June 4 and June 6 indicated that the water quality at Palma Sola South does not meet the recreational water quality criteria for enterococcus bacteria recommended by the Florida Department of Health. DOH-Manatee advises against any

water-related activities at the location due to an increased risk of illness in swimmers.

Sampling conducted during regular water quality monitoring showed that the level of bacteria exceeds the level established by state guidelines. This advisory will continue until bacteria levels are below the accepted health level. Test results are available at FloridaHealth.gov/HealthyBeaches.

For more information, call 941714-7596 or visit www.Manatee. FloridaHealth.gov.

Net camp refurbishment continues

FISH members are repairing the roof and deck before hurricane season.

BY LESLIE LAKE SUN CORRESPONDENT | llake@amisun.com

CORTEZ – The historic net camp just offshore of the fishing village is being refurbished thanks to the Florida Institute for Saltwater Heritage (FISH) and some local commercial fishermen.

Nathan Meschelle, FISH board member and vice-president of the Cortez chapter of the Organized Fisherman of Florida (OFF) and FISH board member Lance Plowman gave an update on the net camp repairs at the FISH board meeting on June 3.

“We’re getting the roof on there and that front deck before the hurricanes start,” Meschelle said. “We’ll be working on it the next few weekends and try to get that roof on there.”

The net camp, known as the Curt Johns net camp, had fallen into disrepair, and until recently, had a hole in the roof, debris on the back deck and an unnamed person living in it.

OFF members conducted a

AMI Chamber to host June luncheon

The Anna Maria Island Chamber of Commerce’s June luncheon will be held on Thursday, June 13 at Westminster Manor, 1700 21st Ave. W. in Bradenton, from 11:30 a.m. to 1 p.m.

coastal cleanup in April and brought back boatloads of debris from the net camp to be discarded. The net camp occupant was trespassed and renovation began.

The structure is owned by John Guthrie. FISH undertook the renovation to maintain the historic building.

Net camps are wooden structures built in the water on stilts that were used by fishermen to hang hemp and cotton fishing nets to dry before the advent of modern materials.

This is an excellent networking opportunity for chamber members or anyone interested in becoming a member. The fee is $22 for members and $30 for prospective members. RSVP by emailing ingrid@amichamber. org or call 941-778-1541.

According to historic photographs, there were once dozens of net camps on Sarasota Bay off Cortez.

The historic Curt Johns net camp is one of two off Cortez. It is next to the 2017 net camp owned by Raymond “Junior” Guthrie, which Florida courts have ordered to be removed at the request of the Florida Department of Environmental Protection due to its non-historic status and the state’s ownership of the submerged land upon which it was built.

Library volunteers needed

The Tingley Library in Bradenton Beach is looking for volunteers in a fun and friendly atmosphere for morning and afternoon shifts. For more information, call Library Clerk Eveann Adams at 941-779-1208.

FISH board reviewing Garner proposal

CORTEZ - Retired landscape architect Allen Garner presented a concept plan to Florida Institute for Saltwater Heritage (FISH) board members on June 3 to assist them in fulfilling the requirements of a $165,000 grant from the Barancik Foundation at the 98-acre FISH Preserve.

Garner proposed to the board that he would complete the grant project requirements of building two bridges, a kiosk, trails and a picnic area.

Board members deferred making a decision at the June 3 meeting and have scheduled a meeting on Monday, June 17 to continue discussions.

The FISH Preserve Public Access Project Grant was awarded in February. According to FISH Treasurer Jane von Hahmann, the two-year grant requires a progress report by March 2025.

The preserve, east of the historic Cortez fishing village, has been acquired piecemeal by FISH over decades from funds earned at the annual Cortez Commercial Fishing Festival.

9:00 a.m. TO 10:00 p.m. DAILY 5344 Gulf Drive Holmes Beac h (941) 779-BEER hurricaneliquors.com

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“Spent t he week in Anna Maria Island and out of all the liquor stores on t he island, t his is by far t he best one, wit h t he best prices and t he most selection. The staf f was very friendly ” Heat her

“ The guys here was very helpful and knowledgeable. They had some great choices on bourbon.

“ These guys had t he best selection , decent prices, and were overall just good people.” Matt hew

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“Amazing selection knowledgeable staf f and best ser vice on t he island” Vicky

SHOP AMI LOCAL BUSINESS - PROUDLY SERVING LOCALS AND VISITORS SINCE 2007

LESLIE LAKE | SUN

A June 7 photo shows the historic net camp off the coast of Cortez undergoing repairs to its roof and deck.

Whitmore enters commission race

Longtime Holmes

Beach resident Carol Whitmore is entering the race for one of two city commission seats.

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

HOLMES BEACH – A new contender is putting her hat in the ring for one of two city commission seats up for grabs in November.

Carol Whitmore is a well-known face in the community and in local politics. Previously, she served as a city commissioner in Holmes Beach followed by tenure as the city’s mayor

and several years on the Manatee County board of commissioners as an at-large commissioner. Whitmore left local politics in late 2022 to pursue the role of development administrator for Help to Home Inc. Now she said her contract with that nonprofit organization is up and she’s ready to step back into the local political spotlight with the goal of helping her community.

going into the November election other than to try and shine a positive light on Holmes Beach. She added that she hopes to use her relationships with local and state leaders as well as with candidates running in elections throughout Manatee County to help rebuild and reinforce positive working relationships between officials.

“I want to move our city forward and hopefully help rebuild relationships,” she said.

“I love my city,” Whitmore said of the Anna Maria Island community that has been her home for 55 years. She said that she has no agenda

Despite having previously served in the role, Whitmore said she has no interest in running for the mayoral seat in Holmes Beach that’s also up for election this year.

DeSantis vetoes CBD restrictions

On June 7, Gov. Ron DeSantis vetoed legislation, Senate Bill 1698, that would have placed additional restrictions on CBD products legally sold in Florida. While maintaining existing state law that CBD products may not exceed 0.3% total Delta-9 THC levels, the proposed legislation would have further mandated that Delta-9 THC

content could not exceed 5 milligrams per serving and 50 milligrams per container, whichever was less. The vetoed legislation would have also prohibited any CBD product packaging that might resemble a candy wrapper or otherwise appeal to youngsters. The Anna Maria City Commission recently discussed the proposed state legislation

and its potential impacts while revising the city’s marijuana ordinance in a manner that now includes a grandfathering provision for Anna Maria businesses that already sold CBD and/or hemp products as of April 1. Businesses seeking the grandfathering exception must file a city-issued registration form by July 1.

Also in the race for the two commission seats are incumbent Commissioner Dan Diggins and resident Steven Oelfke. Incumbent Commissioner Greg Kerchner has not yet qualified to run for re-election. Incumbent Mayor Judy Titsworth thus far has one challenger for her seat, Tampa businessman Mike Roth. Candidate qualifying for the Holmes Beach commission and mayoral seats continues at the Manatee County Supervisor of Elections Office through Friday, June 14 at noon. For more information on how to file to be a candidate, visit www.votemanatee.com.

Whitmore

JOE HENDRICKS | SUN Legal in Florida, CBD products are sold in many forms and varieties.

*(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 April and paid to the Manatee County Tax Collector’s Office in May. 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

Commissioners approve reimbursement for Form 6 assistance

BY LESLIE LAKE SUN CORRESPONDENT | llake@amisun.com

BRADENTON BEACH – City commissioners voted unanimously on June 6 to approve the reimbursement of any expenses they may incur in preparation of their required Form 6 financial disclosure paperwork.

According to the Florida Commission on Ethics, Form 6 is a “Full and Public Disclosure of Financial Interests” and includes the disclosure of net worth, assets valued at more than $1,000, liabilities, income and business interests for elected officials.

“In staff’s opinion, what we feel is appropriate, because this is a new unfunded mandate, there are funds available to support you as you go through this for the first time to hire

professional services to make sure you don’t run afoul of the new law and you protect yourselves and the city making sure you continue to serve,” City Attorney Ricinda Perry said.

Chappie opened the discussion for public comment but there was none.

Commissioner Jan Vosburgh said, “Personally I don’t think anyone could fill out that form without you giving them instructions. You might as well do it yourself.”

She added, “I’m not happy about doing it, but we don’t have a choice.”

“Some peoples’ financials may be more complicated or cumbersome than another’s,” Perry said. “They may need to seek the advice of counsel or a tax consultant to make sure they’re doing it right.”

Chappie said the option would be there if needed.

The forms must be filled out online.

“The first thing it asks you is your net worth,” Commissioner Ralph Cole said. “First of all, you have to go down the questions and you have to know legally what they’re asking for. And if you don’t know exactly what they’re asking for, anything that your name is on. Mine is pretty complicated.”

Cole said he would feel more confident having either a lawyer or accountant look it over.

“I think the state has done a big injustice for the small time - we’re not out there making 25-35-80 thousand dollars a year,” Cole said. “It’s a voluntary thing. Listing your assets is one thing, tallying them all up and putting them out there is another.”

Chappie said he has used his

accountant in the past and will do so again.

Vosburgh asked if this has to be done every year.

It is an annual requirement due by July 1.

“There’s a Florida Constitutional Provision on your right to privacy,” Perry said. “To me, it goes too far, with the disclosures.”

Former Commissioner Jake Spooner resigned from the city commission in December, citing Form 6 disclosure requirements.

A motion was made by Cole and seconded by Commissioner Deborah Scaccianoce to authorize reimbursement for professional services used by an elected official related to Form 6 preparation. The motion passed unanimously.

Commissioner Marilyn Maro was absent with excuse from the meeting.

Brigadoon

Reel Time

he legend of Brigadoon is the story of a mythical village in the Scottish Highlands. It’s a tale of a place that became enchanted long ago and has remained unchanged and invisible to the outside world except for one special day when it can be seen and visited by outsiders. Those lucky outsiders then spend an enchanted day immersed in joy and celebration. This past May, I had the good fortune of spending a day on the enchanted waters of the Brigadoon Lodge, not in Scotland but in the highlands of Northeast Georgia and not far from where we vacation in Sautee Nacoochee.

I first experienced this stretch of water when a trip I planned with my friend Bob Seegar, who had relocated from

Longboat Key to Blue Ridge, Georgia, and his grandson, David, was unexpectedly canceled. Fortunately, a friend who lives nearby saved the day when he hooked us up at the lodge through a friend who oversees the guides there.

The lodge sits on a beautiful tract of land where the storied Soque River runs through the Chattahoochee National Forest. It’s one of a few tracts of private land along the river that’s designated nonnavigable and where no public access is allowed. It’s appeared in many magazines and hosted the likes of President Jimmy Carter and Ted Turner, founder of Turner Broadcasting System.

On this occasion, Seegar and I were joined by our friend, Michael Riter. The two had arrived at our cabin the night before, when we dined at the nearby Harvest Habersham, a new farm-to-table restaurant that serves some of the most delicious and unique dishes I’ve ever tasted.

The next morning, we drove the winding and scenic route 197 that follows

Our guide, Doc, shows off a Soque River rainbow trout he

the Soque through the Blue Ridge foothills to the Brigadoon Lodge. We were met there by our guide, Doc, and fitted with waders and boots for our day on the river. Over eight hours, we fished several of the river’s “beats” where we all landed numerous large rainbow trout on a fly. We fished mostly nymph patterns under a strike indicator but were also

treated to some of the mix of native and stocked trout on dry flies. It was truly an immersive experience that with a slight narrowing of the eyes became the Brigadoon of lore. If you’re ever in the area, a trip to this beautiful river and lodge is unforgettable. Explore the options at www. brigadoonlodge.com.

RUSTY CHINNIS

RUSTY CHINNIS | SUN

netted.

Objective: Tarpon

CAPT. RICK GRASSETT

Tarpon should be plentiful in the coastal Gulf of Mexico this month as big schools of fish migrate along our beaches. Also look for cobia, tripletail and false albacore (little tunny) in the coastal Gulf. Catch and release snook fishing should also be good in and around passes and in the surf. Fishing for a variety of species should also be good on deep grass flats.

Tarpon fishing should be good during June as schools of fish increase in size and numbers. They will head offshore to spawn, close to new and full moons. I’ve done well with Lefty’s Deceiver and my Grassett Flats Bunny fly patterns fished on floating fly lines. Stake out or anchor in travel lanes to get shots at them. Tarpon are creatures of habit and will travel on the same edges and depth contours. The shallower the water, the easier it is to get your fly in front of a tarpon when fly fishing. Since fish may be moving in different directions, setting up within several hundred yards of

another angler may negatively affect their fishing. Fly fishing for tarpon is very dependent on conditions and there are a lot of variables that need to come together to be successful.

You should find snook in the surf, in passes and around docks and bridges in the ICW near passes. You can walk the beach and sight fish them in the surf with fly tackle. Small baitfish fly patterns, like Gibby’s DT Special or my Grassett Snook Minnow, should work well. Many of the same flies that work in the surf will also work well at night. Snook will congregate in passes around the new and full moons to spawn, so docks and bridges close to passes will usually hold more fish this time of year.

Fishing for reds should also be good in June. Look for them over shallow grass, along mangrove shorelines or around oyster bars when the tide is high. You’ll find them in potholes or edges of flats when the tide is low. Fly anglers should score with baitfish fly patterns like my Grassett Flats

Minnow or Gurglers.

You may find trout, Spanish mackerel, bluefish or pompano on deep grass flats this month. I like to drift and cast ahead of my drift with Ultra Hair Clouser flies tied on long shank hooks on an intermediate sink tip fly line. You’ll need to add a few inches of heavy (40- or 50-pound) fluorocarbon when toothy fish are in the mix. Look for deep grass flats with a mix of grass and sand and a good tidal flow for the best action.

In addition to tarpon, look for Spanish mackerel, false albacore,

ANNA MARIA: Four qualify for mayor's race

FROM PAGE 1

cobia and tripletail in the coastal Gulf this month. Although none of them may be thick, I’ve encountered all of them before in June. Keep your eyes open for bird activity or “breaking” fish to find albies and mackerel. Cobia and tripletail may be found around crab trap floats; however, I’ve seen cobia swimming with tarpon schools before. An 8- or 9-weight fly rod with a floating or clear sink tip fly line is adequate to catch everything except a big cobia, in which case your 12-weight tarpon fly tackle will work well.

This creates a third opening to be filled in the general election – or filled later by commission appointment if no additional commission candidates emerge during the second and final week of qualifying.

Anna Maria’s qualifying period ends on Friday, June 14 at noon. Qualifying packets can be obtained from the city clerk’s office or the Manatee County Supervisor of Elections Office.

CAPT. RICK GRASSETT | SUN

Clark Keator, of Orlando, fights a tarpon that he caught and released on a fly while fishing the coastal Gulf with Capt. Rick Grassett in a previous June.

Hawks horseshoe champ

Bob Hawks, left, won the day’s championship at Anna Maria Horseshoes on June 5 after edging out Tim Sofran and Tom Skoloda 22-20 in the final. Not pictured, Herb Schutt and Tom Farrington ended up in the winner's circle after posting the only 3-0 record during pool play on June 8.

PALMS: Mayor accepts responsibility for misplacement of palms

Lou Barolo Park or the city police department.

hurricane conference, but within 24 hours, I considered it an emergency situation that those needed to get out of the right of way because they were concerned that it doesn’t meet their standards.”

Chappie said the city would have to fill out a permit form and go through the FDOT process to plant in the traffic islands and roundabout.

“He (Richard) did say, the rule is four inches in circumference,” Chappie said. “The Alexander palms (which were previously in the roundabout) were four inches in circumference but apparently, 10 years ago or whenever it was, there wasn’t needed permission from FDOT to put them in. So my thought was on trying to replace those, they didn’t look very healthy and that’s all on me of course.”

According to Chappie, four of the 19 palms were taken back to landscaper M&F Lawn Care’s yard. Chappie said the trees may be relocated to

Chappie said he will be meeting with Miguel Mancera of M&F Lawn Care and city attorney Ricinda Perry to determine what is needed to finish the project.

Chappie then spoke about the trees along Bridge Street.

“There were a total of 60 palms that have been delivered. We planted 56 palms on Bridge Street, on First Street and the pier dock area,” he said.

Chappie said that four or five of the smaller palms were leaning and didn’t appear to have a good connection with the root ball.

“Miguel assured us that he was guaranteeing everything that was planted,” Chappie said. “I talked to him yesterday. We need to get together to go over everything, to continue to do some of the beautification that we like.”

IRRIGATION PURSUED

Chappie brought up an irrigation

system installation on Bridge Street which had received CRA approval for a cost of up to $7,500.

Police Chief John Cosby, who is currently serving as interim public works director following the resignation of Tom Woodard, weighed in.

“I don’t think the amount of money that’s budgeted is going to cover it,” Cosby said. “In order to run the line down the entire street on both sides we’re going to have to lift the bricks out of the crosswalks to put the pipe underneath it, otherwise we’re going to have to bore and boring is very expensive so that brick would have to be removed and the lines run so the whole street has irrigation. I don’t know that $7,000 is going to cover it but we’ll get some estimates and bring those back and we’ll go from there.”

MAYOR RESPONDS

At the June 6 city commission meeting, Chappie responded to press coverage of the city’s lag in producing

a fully-executed agreement between the city and developer Shawn Kaleta ensuring Kaleta’s assumption of responsibility for newly-planted coconut palm trees on Bridge Street.

The Sun’s news coverage included a timeline of events, including emails from the city, that showed that a signed agreement for the coconut palms between the city and Kaleta was not in place until May 28 – more than a month after the trees were planted the week of April 24. The Sun also published two editorials criticizing the process and the project.

Chappie did not name The Sun and did not refute any of the facts in the stories.

“As everybody knows, we’re five people up here and we are a weak mayor form of government, we are equal, and we assign people to oversee on certain projects," Chappie said. Ricinda (City Attorney Ricinda Perry) has gotten the brunt of a lot of projects to do and unfortunately has gotten a lot of the brunt of the criticism."

FOOD & WINE

Summer, hot and fresh

pasta salad makes for a delicious and satisfying meal, especially during the summer months when you're craving something refreshing yet filling. This recipe incorporates asparagus, a vegetable that I have fallen in love with all over again. I’ve been trying to eat healthier again and did some research on healthy meal choices. Asparagus popped up over and over as a good choice and considering how readily available it is right now, it’s a great meal addition. Asparagus is a good source of vitamins A, C, E and K and contains various antioxidants, including glutathione, which play a key role in reducing inflammation and protecting against chronic diseases. Asparagus is rich in dietary fiber, which promotes digestive health and helps to maintain a healthy balance of gut bacteria. The combination of antioxidants, vitamins and minerals found in asparagus may also help to reduce the risk of heart disease by lowering blood pressure, improving cholesterol levels and reducing inflammation.

pasta salad

(4-6 servings)

Ingredients

2 pounds fresh asparagus, ends snapped off and then cut into 2-inch pieces

1 pound short, ridged pasta (rigatoni if available)

1 1/2 cups whole milk ricotta

I’m a super fan of the new Detweiler’s Farm Market location in Bradenton and am so happy to see the quality and fairly priced produce that they offer. The asparagus always looks great there! Consider adding a protein of your choice like grilled chicken, shrimp or salmon to your salad and viola - you have a dinner that will impress anyone! We do hope you enjoy.

1/2 cup finely grated Parmesan cheese, plus more for serving

1 tablespoon grated lemon zest, plus more for serving

1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice

3/4 cup thinly sliced basil leaves, plus more for serving

Kosher salt

Freshly ground black pepper

As we move into the summer, staying cool and hydrated becomes especially important. With rising temperatures, it's crucial to take measures to beat the heat and stay safe. Here are some tips for navigating a hot summer:

Drink plenty of water throughout the day to stay hydrated. Coconut water or electrolyterich drinks can also help replenish lost fluids and minerals.

Wear lightweight clothing. Opt for loosefitting, lightweight clothing made of breathable fabrics like cotton or linen to help keep you cool. Light colors can also reflect sunlight and heat, keeping you cooler than darker colors.

SUBMITTED

until al dente. Reserve 1 cup of pasta water, drain remaining water. In a large bowl, mix ricotta, Parmesan, lemon zest, lemon juice and 3/4 cup of the reserved pasta water. Season with salt and pepper. Add the cooked pasta and coat well. Refrigerate immediately until well chilled. Steam the asparagus or microwave with a wet paper towel for about 3 minutes so it is still crisp and tender. Immediately set in an ice bath (large bowl with ice and water) and allow it to cool quickly. Drain well. Stir the pasta and if the sauce is too thick, add 1 tablespoon of pasta water at a time until the consistency is right for you. Add the asparagus and basil and top with more Parmesan, lemon zest and basil leaves for serving.

Use sunscreen. Protect your skin from sunburn and damage by applying sunscreen with a high SPF before going outside. Be sure to reapply sunscreen every few hours. Stay indoors during peak heat. If possible, stay indoors in air-conditioned spaces during the hottest parts of the day.

Cool off with water. Take cool showers or baths to lower your body temperature, or use a spray bottle filled with water to mist yourself throughout the day. You can also place damp towels or cloths on your forehead, neck and wrists to help cool down.

Avoid strenuous activity. Try to avoid strenuous exercise or activity during extreme heat, as it can increase the risk of heat-related illnesses like heat exhaustion. Check on vulnerable individuals. Keep an eye on children, the elderly and pets during hot weather, as they are more susceptible to heat-related illnesses. Make sure they have access to plenty of water, shade and a cool environment.

“Great assortment of spir its and competitive prices.” Nyor

HURRICANE HANKS

BY MONICA SIMPSON

SPECIAL TO THE SUN

Adult soccer final match set

ANNA MARIA – More than two months of adult soccer action on the Island led to a showdown in the final games of the season this week.

Semifinal playoff action saw teams Ross Built Custom Homes and Progressive Cabinetry outplay their opponents, making way for them to take the last two slots in the league’s bracket.

In the first game of the night last on Thursday, Ross Built had an easy time of their win against team Pool America. The team’s active offense led to the 6-1 win.

Pool America’s Brandon Rolland scored the team’s only goal in the game, while teammate Jessica Reukberg was put to the test as the keeper. Reukberg is credited with six saves in the game against the onslaught of shots from her opponents.

Team captain Chris Klotz put an assist into the game statistics.

Also with six recorded saves, Max Gazzo supported team Ross Built defensively as goalie.

Ross Built Custom Home’s offense pursued the Pool American goal with five scorers and two additional team members with assists. Jake Ross, son of team captain Greg Ross, led the team in scoring with two points.

The father-son scoring trinity was realized with additional goals by G. Ross and Jake’s twin brother, Andrew. Dean Hinterstoisser and Tim Holly shot the other two points for Ross Built.

Hinterstoisser is credited with an assist in the game for Ross Built, with Helio Gomez and Ted Hurst with assists of their own to help with the team’s victory.

The scoring in the second game of

the night started in the first minute of play, with Progressive Cabinetry taking the lead early and ultimately winning the game against team Salty Printing. The close semifinal game was won by a single point, making the early Progressive goal all too important.

The six winning shots came off the boots of team captain Keith Mahoney, with three goals, and Junior Martines and Osvaldo Cabello. Martines slid two shots by Salty Printing goalkeeper Charles “Tuna” McCracken.

Alex Aviles, Leo Gonzalez and Raul Loera each had a single assist for the Progressive Cabinetry team. In goal,

Tyler Bekkerus made seven critical saves for his team, aiding the squad in securing the last slot in the season finale.

Kevin Roman’s Salty Printing team worked hard on the field to stop the Progressive charge. The 14 saves by McCracken exemplified the offensive attack released by his opponents.

Roman, the Salty team captain, dominated the field and his team’s scoring with four goals. Tyler Brewer made a solo goal for Salty Printing, working to keep the team in the hunt for the championship honors.

Salty Printing came up just short of the championship goal, 6-5, paving the

SHOOTING: Suspect charged in Sunny Shores shooting

female victim being shot in the chest.

he had allegedly slapped the victim in the face earlier in the evening. A verbal altercation between Armstrong and the victim quickly escalated, according to the release. During the argument, Armstrong allegedly grabbed a shotgun and shot at her as she and the two males accompanying her tried to flee the home, resulting in the

One of the men with the victim retrieved a handgun from the golf cart and allegedly returned multiple rounds of fire in Armstrong’s direction, but did not hit him. The three, including the injured female, fled the area on the golf cart to 119th Street West and 45th Avenue West, according to the release.

At 8:45 p.m., according to West Manatee Fire Rescue Marshal Rodney Kwiatkowski, an unidentified male victim was assessed for a gunshot wound to the foot at 3916 116th St. W. but refused treatment.

MCSO deputies confronted Armstrong at the 116th Street West address, where he was attempting to hide inside the residence, according to the release. After

way for the final matchup: Progressive Cabinetry versus Ross Built Custom Homes. The final game of the season for the Island’s adult co-ed soccer league is scheduled for Thursday, June 13 on The Center’s pitch.

SUN SCOREBOARD

JUNE

being ordered to surrender to police, he complied and was taken into custody. Other deputies met with the victims at 45th Avenue West to gather further information. The female victim was transported to HCA Florida Blake Hospital, where she was treated for a gunshot wound to the chest and listed in stable condition. The investigation is ongoing.

REAL ESTATE

Reinsurance causing rate hikes

Iknow, not more talk about insurance, especially a week after the beginning of hurricane season. But if the Wall Street Journal can put it on their front page, I can report it.

Reinsurance is apparently the reason for the increase in insurance rates around the country. And if you don’t know what reinsurance is, like it or not, I’m going to tell you.

Simply, as if anything related to insurance is simple, reinsurance is insurance for insurers. Reinsurance lets insurers sell policies in vulnerable areas without the risk of being wiped out by a single disaster. The reinsurance market is a global entity that spreads the risk globally, allowing local insurance companies to provide insurance in risky areas, like Florida.

According to the Wall Street Journal, the reinsurance market is unregulated and is one of the major drivers of the high cost of property coverage across the country. Last year this came to a

Castles in the Sand

head after the reinsurance companies suffered a sharp drop in profits and started raising rates and cutting coverage at the start of last year.

This, of course, has had consumer advocates complaining that reinsurer profits have come at the expense of homeowners. The advocates have called for a federal reinsurance program, similar to the national flood insurance program, to protect consumers from unrestrained cost increases. The reinsurance industry says they’re the wrong target and are only responding to the increase in losses in the home insurance industry.

Wherever the blame lies, at least in

Florida there is a round of reinsurance renewals currently underway, as well as in other high-risk states, that will help determine whether more premium increases are in the future. Interestingly, insurance brokers who are tracking a round of reinsurance policy renewals in June say they expect premiums to stay fairly level in Florida; we can only hope. However, there is some new money coming into the industry which may help to lower prices assuming this year’s hurricane season is overstated even though this year’s prediction is calling for the largest number of major hurricanes ever forecasted.

Since everything related to insurance influences the real estate market, the increased cost of reinsurance will be affecting the availability of home insurance. If there isn’t insurance available or the cost of the insurance is unreachable for buyers, it will slow the real estate market. Nevertheless, Lisa Miller, a Florida-based insurance adviser,

indicates the 2024 reinsurance costs are going to be better.

We don’t usually talk specifically about reinsurance since the cost of it has always been built into our insurance company’s overall costs. But it is now becoming an issue on its own and hopefully will help explain to the average homeowner why insurance has gone up and what the future may hold.

The good news for us is across the country, approved home insurance rates are higher in Texas, Louisiana, Washington state and several more states than in Florida. The West, including California, is exposed to wildfires and the Midwest, tornadoes, both of which can be just as or more devastating than hurricanes.

I guess what I’m saying is there are no risk-free places to live, but some reasonable legislation or big brains should get together and see what can be done for the average homeowner. Think that will ever happen?

LOUISE BOLGER

OBITUARIES

Donald James Garnett

Donald James Garnett, husband of Linda Palmer Garnett, departed this earth on May 31, 2024. He was born on Dec. 13, 1939, in Cohoes, New York, the son of Lawrence Garnett and Genevieve Cartini Garnett. After growing up in Syracuse, New York he joined the U.S. Navy in 1957 where he served for seven years on the USS Bristol and the USS Allagash. While in the Navy, he took part in the blockade of Cuba during the Cuban crisis in 1962. In 1964, he joined the U.S. Coast Guard where he served for 17 years with duty stations in New York, Hawaii, California, Massachusetts and Maryland. He retired on July 31, 1981 as a Chief Boatswain Mate and

Officer in Charge, St. Inigoes, Maryland. His favorite assignment was two years at Kilauea Point Light Station on Kauai, Hawaii, serving as the last officer in charge before the lighthouse was decommissioned in 1974.

After retiring from military service, Don took up golf and enjoyed playing with other retired service members. In 2007, Don and Linda sold their home in Raleigh, North Carolina, and began their lifelong dream of traveling around the U.S. while living in their motorhome. Together, they visited all 50 states, all 50 state capitols, and 404 of the national parks, monuments and historic sites. They also visited 11 of the 13 Canadian provinces and territories. An avid golfer, Don achieved his goal of playing golf in all 50 states, with Maine being the last one, and he played several times a week until the week of his passing.

While continuing to travel in the RV part-time, Don and Linda made Bradenton their permanent residence. They

took many cruises over the past several years, traveling to Europe, Iceland, South America, the Caribbean and the South Pacific. On the last cruise, they crossed both the equator and dateline, and visited the National Park of American Samoa, their 400th national park site.

He was a member of the Kirby Stewart American Legion Post 24 in Bradenton for 44 years, a life member of the VFW, a member of the Anna Maria Island Moose Lodge, and an active member of Saints Peter and Paul the Apostles Catholic Church.

He is survived by his wife, Linda; daughters, Debra Sylvester, Jacqueline Garnett and Donna (David) McRee; son, Donald (Kim) Garnett; sister, Carolann (Mike) Kulick; seven grandchildren; 16 great-grandchildren; and two great-greatgrandchildren. He will be greatly missed.

Brown & Sons Funeral Homes & Crematory 43rd Street Chapel, 604 43rd St. W., Bradenton, FL 34209, is in charge of arrangements.

Marty Hicks had a hole-in-one at the Key Royale Club in Holmes Beach on Sunday, playing hole #4 at 172 yards using a 4-hybrid.

BEACH BEAT

BRADENTON BEACH

6/1, 6:49 p.m. burglary, 1400 Gulf Drive S. The officer was dispatched to Cortez Beach in reference to a vehicle burglary. The female victim said her car had been burglarized while her family was on the beach. The victim said her 11-year-old daughter had locked the car, but one of the doors had been left ajar. When they returned to the car a few hours later, the victim found multiple items missing, including designer sunglasses, a portable television and oxycodone pills that were in the center console. The officer was unable to get fingerprints from the vehicle’s interior due to the texture of the materials. No suspect has been identified.

6/2, 2:50 p.m., aggravated battery, 2400 Gulf Drive S. The officer arrived at the Coquina Beach public parking lot in reference to a disturbance over a parking space. Upon arrival, the officer spoke to a female subject who said she had been holding a parking space for her husband. She said a white SUV tried to pull into the space and ran over her foot. She said this caused her to punch the vehicle’s windshield before going to Coquina Park to wait for police. The officer then spoke to the driver of the SUV who said she didn’t mean to

run over the woman’s foot. A capias warrant was issued for both parties.

HOLMES BEACH

6/2, 12:15 p.m., criminal mischief, 4000 Gulf Drive. The officer was dispatched to the Manatee Beach parking lot in reference to a vehicle crash. When he arrived, the complainant said he was waiting for a parking space and another vehicle tried to cut in front of him. He was able to get in the space first, and went to the beach. When the

man returned, he found his car had been keyed in several places. A witness said after the victim parked, a skinny male in his 30s did the damage, then drove off with two other men in a silver Chevy truck with a Texas tag. Police have not yet been able to locate the suspect.

FUN IN THE SUN

CLASSIFIEDS

ANNOUNCEMENTS

VOLUNTEERS NEEDED: 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, @ 941-779-1208.

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 nonperishable food, PAPER & PERSONAL HYGIENE PRODUCTS. Donations boxes are located at the Church, Moose Club, and Walgreen’s.

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

BOATS FOR SALE

BOATS ARE SELLING VERY WELL. “Business On A Handshake” Your Local Trusted Boat Dealer For 24 Years. I also buy boats. Dave Struber 941-228-3489. Islandboatsales.net

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

COMPUTER REPAIR

STACY’S COMPUTERSREPAIR & Tutoring in your home. Senior/Veterans discount. Apple & PC’s. Prompt, Friendly, Patient. Call Stacy 941-246-1048

EMPLOYMENT

EXPERIENCED NAIL TECH, great personality to take over existing clients PT to FT . Tired of where you are come join our salon! Call 941-545-3305.

HOME IMPROVEMENTS

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

KERN & GILDER CONSTRUCTION, INC New Homes & Remodel. Design/Build. Since 1968. License # CBC 1261150. Call the Office. 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 941-3028759 isletileservices.com

GORILLA DRYWALL REPAIR, LLC. 15+ years of experience. Free Estimates. Let’s solve your Drywall problems together. Call 941-2860607.

BMF INTERIORS Home repairs and more, No job too small. Please call 786318-8585

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, and weeding. Weekly, bi-monthly or monthly schedule. Pressure washing. Call Bill Witaszek 941-307-9315

MOVING & STORAGE

MARTIN’S MOVING YOUR Island movers! Offering dependable, competitive rates. No hidden costs. 941-8095777.

PAINTING & WALLCOVERING

PAINT! PAINT! AND MORE 28 years of experienced interior/exterior custom painting. Pressure cleaning, drywall repairs and texture finishes. Many Island references. Please call Neil for free estimates. 941-812-0507

“WIZARD OF WALLS”

Established 1980

Prompt quality service. Wallpaper installation/ removal. Mary Bell Winegarden 941-7940455

DONALD PERKINS

ABRACADABRA

PAINTING LLC fully insured. 30 years experience. Many Island references. Call 941705-7096

PROFESSIONAL

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

POOL SERVICES

FOUR SEASONS POOL SERVICE AND CHEMICAL SERVICES. Certified Pool Operator. 18 + 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.

RENTALS: ANNUAL

ANNUAL RENTALS

WANTED! We have well qualified tenants for beach and mainland annual rentals, Full management or Finders fee. Call today for details. Ask for Paige DUNCAN REAL ESTATE 513-382-1992.

ANNUAL RENTAL:

2BR/2BA furnished Wildwood Springs condo, no pets. $1850 monthly Call 941-778-4800

ANNUAL RENTAL: 611

Gulf Dr N. C15 Bradenton Beach, FL 34217, Imperial House Condo 2BA/1BA $2000/mo - Available Aug 1st. 208 A Magnolia Ave. 2BD/2BA $2800/moavailable June 1st. 208 B Magnolia Ave. 2BD/2BA $2800/mo- available Aug 1st. 407 76th St A Holmes Beach, FL 34216 $5000/ mo- available June 1st. Contact Sato Real Estate for more information. 941778-7200

SEASONAL RENTAL in PALMA SOLA. 3BR/2BA weekly or monthly rates. Contact Barb Grace 941-201-2190

ANNA MARIA ISLAND

CONDOS Large pool, beach access, free WiFi, 1&2 Bedroom $900 to $1200 per week redekercondosonami.com Tim 941-704-7525

FOR RENT (SUMMER AT THE BEACH) AMI updated 5 star condo. Available May to November (monthly with Multi-month discount). Million$ water view, first floor, 2BR/2BA, beautiful water view deck, walk to beach, pool, tennis (smoke free/no pets) Owner/renter email NOW marketreps@aol. com or 570-239-0431

TRANSPORTATION

ANYTIME

FOR SALE

REAL ESTATE HOMES & CONDOS

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! 941725-1589

HISTORICAL COTTAGE 409 Pine Ave. $2.2M 4BR/3BA pool. Brenda Boyd May Broker / Owner. All realtors welcome. 941-730-8589

2BR/1BA, ANNUAL, carport, laundry room, porch, new central a/c, no pets, short walk to the beach. $2400/mo. Dolores Baker Real Estate. 941778-7500.

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

TRANSPORTATION to all Airports, Casino, etc. Tampa/St. Pete $85. Sarasota $40. Pets welcome. Very dependable. Reasonable rates. Contact Jeanne. 941-779-5095