Anna Maria Island Sun March 9, 2022

- Named Best Florida Newspaper In Its Class -

VOL 22 No. 22

March 9, 2022

With virtually no assistance, Álvaro de Marichalar Sáenz de Tejada is circumnavigating the Earth on the smallest vessel ever attempted.

BY JASON SCHAFFER SUN CORRESPONDENT | jschaffer@amisun.com

World record seeker stops at Island

ANNA MARIA ISLAND - Anyone who’s ever owned or rented a personal watercraft knows that after about a half-hour in the turbulent ocean, it becomes quite a workout.

Now imagine traveling more than 20,000 nautical miles on a craft that size.

That’s exactly what a 60-year-old man from Spain is doing as he attempts to circumnavigate the Earth alone on the smallest watercraft in history.

This isn’t just an attempt to get his name in the record books; there is a personal reason as impressive as the feat itself, and it brought Spanish explorer and environmentalist Álvaro de Marichalar Sáenz de Tejada to Anna Maria Island last week.

De Marichalar arrived on Anna Maria Island the evening of March 3 and departed on March 5 en route to Pensacola and far beyond. The Island wasn’t on his planned route, but he said he enjoyed his time here.

CONNOR FIELD | SUN

Álvaro de Marichalar Sáenz de Tejada in Anna Maria Sound off Anna Maria Island on March 3.

SEE RECORD, PAGE 31

All roads lead to parking

Historic Island cottage saved

When Holmes Beach and Manatee County commissioners sat down to talk, there were many issues on the table, but parking received most of the discussion time.

On an island where everything is being replaced, it’s news when something isn’t.

BY CINDY LANE SUN STAFF WRITER | clane@amisun.com

BY KRISTIN SWAIN

remind speakers to remain civil in their comments and Holmes Beach Commissioner Carol Soustek to note that while Titsworth is the face of the city’s leadership, it’s the commissioners who vote to accept or deny proposed changes, including those related to parking.

BRADENTON BEACH – As cottages and bungalows continue to be bulldozed to make room for large-scale vacation rentals, a Welsh couple has preserved a piece of old Anna Maria Island.

The 1927 Sea Grape Cottage, at 601 Gulf Drive S., wasn’t put up on stilts, didn’t have a third floor added to it, and wasn’t torn down like the house across the street.

Instead, original interior ceiling beams were saved, and new paint, new flooring and a new metal roof were installed.

The ground-level white cottage with the wraparound porch looks much like it has for the past 95 years, only newer.

Vacation rentals, with bedrooms in the double digits and often called party houses, require people

SEE PARKING, PAGE 22

SEE COTTAGE, PAGE 31

SUN STAFF WRITER | kswain@amisun.com

MANATEE COUNTY – Despite having 12 items on the agenda for a joint meeting, the recent discussion between Holmes Beach and Manatee County commissioners kept coming back to one contentious topic – beach parking.

It may have only been March 1, but the lengthy meeting produced as many fireworks as any Fourth of July display.

Though the parking item had a time-certain discussion planned for 11 a.m. during the two-and-ahalf-hour session, the topic was the proverbial elephant in the room from the start.

INSIDE NEWS LETTERS OUTDOORS RESTAURANTS REAL ESTATE SPORTS CLASSIFIEDS

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KRISTIN SWAIN | SUN

Beachgoers driving into Holmes Beach have had issues finding parking spaces for years.

The meeting kicked off with public comment, during which several east county residents stated their resentment of Holmes Beach Mayor Judy Titsworth concerning traffic and an inability for some beachgoers to find parking in Holmes Beach. The onslaught of comments prompted Manatee County Commissioner Kevin Van Ostenbridge to

CELEBRATING

DOCK SPACE for water taxi

Ukrainian culture with a new twist on pierogis.

In Food & Wine. 23

could be a problem. 3 COQUINA Beach carjacker sentenced to 12 years. 4

Anna Maria Island, Florida

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MARCH 9, 2022

MARCH 9, 2022

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Water taxi dock space problematic in Holmes Beach Manatee County commissioners want to dock a water taxi in Holmes Beach, but they want city leaders to either find the dock space or create one.

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

MANATEE COUNTY – Holmes Beach city leaders and Manatee County commissioners came together March 1 for a long-awaited meeting spotlighting dock space for a proposed Anna Maria Island water taxi.

Holmes Beach Mayor Judy Titsworth said that while she and other city leaders are in support of a water taxi coming to the Island, they haven’t yet been approached by anyone to discuss a potential docking site in the Island’s largest city.

County Commissioner George Kruse said that he feels it’s up to the city’s leaders to come to county leaders with potential solutions for where a water taxi could dock, not rely on Manatee County leaders to tell the city where a water taxi could go.

County Commissioner Vanessa Baugh added that the county isn’t look-

KRISTIN SWAIN | SUN

The Bradenton Area Convention Center and Visitors Bureau Director, Elliott Falcione, discusses the positive impacts on tourism that a water taxi to Anna Maria Island could provide. ing at building a place to dock a water taxi in Holmes Beach, but that she’d like to see it eventually have a place to stop in each of the three Anna Maria Island cities. Creating those stops would be up to the leaders of the three cities, working with the county to create solutions to existing issues.

Titsworth said that the place in Holmes Beach with the largest amount of parking for a water taxi isn’t the one

that would be the best central location for tourists or locals taking the alternative form of transportation – Kingfish Boat Ramp.

The Manatee County-owned and maintained boat ramp is already planned to undergo renovations, including restrooms and the addition of a long dock for day boats to park at. Unfortunately for a water taxi, the planned renovations don’t include

a place to park a water taxi and the location is about three blocks from Manatee Beach, which some beachgoers might see as a hindrance to taking a boat to the beach instead of driving.

Titsworth added that the boat ramp also doesn’t have a trolley stop, which would be a way to move people from Kingfish to the rest of the Island.

County Commissioner Kevin Van Ostenbridge suggested the marina basin located in the heart of Holmes Beach’s commercial district as a potential docking location for the water taxi.

Centrally located near shops, restaurants and within a few blocks of public beach accesses, the marina, owned and managed by the adjacent Waterline Marina Resort and Beach Club, sounds ideal - except for parking, Titsworth pointed out.

She told county commissioners that Waterline lost at least 25 to 30 required parking spaces for the marina when the adjacent Wells Fargo Bank was closed in 2020. Though the marina’s management had a lease with the bank for those spaces, they have been scrambling since the building was put SEE WATER TAXI, PAGE 4

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ISLAND NEWS

IN BRIEF

Piney Point closure plan under review The Florida Department of Environmental Protection is reviewing the proposed closure plan for the phosphogypsum stacks at Piney Point. The 257page plan submitted by Ardaman and Associates, a contractor hired by the court-appointed receiver for the former phosphate plant, addresses the environmental protection requirements for the closure. This includes the water management strategy that will eventually eliminate the wastewater ponds on top of the gyp stacks. The partial failure of a gyp stack last spring caused 215 million gallons of contaminated water to be dumped from a wastewater pond into Tampa Bay to prevent flooding of homes and businesses. The remaining contaminated water is planned to be injected into a 3,300-foot-deep well now under construction at 3105 Buckeye Road. The FDEP issued a permit in December for Manatee County to build the well despite objections from five environmental groups concerned about the potential for contaminating underground drinking water in the Floridan aquifer.

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MARCH 9, 2022

Guilty pleas entered in Coquina Beach carjacking case

Steven Michael Lewter received a 12-year prison sentence.

BY JOE HENDRICKS SUN CORRESPONDENT | jhendricks@amisun.com

BRADENTON BEACH – Bradenton resident Steven Michael Lewter, 44, has pled guilty to three felony charges associated with two attempted carjackings in the Coquina Beach parking lot on Aug. 12.

Twelfth Judicial Circuit Judge Frederick Mercurio imposed the 12-year sentence on Feb. 28 after Lewter pled guilty to a first-degree felony charge of attempted carjacking with a firearm, a first-degree felony charge of carjacking with a

deadly weapon and a second-degree felony charge of aggravated battery with a deadly weapon.

According to court Lewter documents and Bradenton Beach Police Chief John Cosby, Lewter received a 12-year prison sentence.

The original probable cause affidavit (PCA) filed by Sgt. Det. Lenard Diaz said Lewter approached Bradenton resident Louise Augustin and her three children in the Coquina Beach parking lot and, at knifepoint, demanded the keys to her vehicle. He entered the vehicle but then left the scene after realizing the keys were not in

the car.

“Augustin and her family began screaming for help,” causing Lewter to run away, according to the PCA. “Further down the road, Lewter approached a second victim, Zachary Peel, while he was sitting in his vehicle on Coquina Beach. Lewter pointed a knife in Peel’s face and exclaimed, ‘This is a carjacking’ while trying to pull the vehicle’s door open. This caused Peel to exit his vehicle to prepare to defend himself. As Peel got out of his vehicle, Lewter swung the knife at him, at some point cutting his thumb. Peel was able to subdue Lewter until officers arrived and placed him into custody,” according to the PCA.

Anna Maria implements public records portal The city of Anna Maria has a new online public records portal. According to a press release distributed last week by City Clerk LeAnne Addy, as of Monday, March 7, all public record requests are to be made using the secure online portal. The public records portal can be accessed online at https:// annamariafl.justfoia.com/publicportal/home/newrequest. It also can be accessed at the city website, www.cityofannamaria.com. According to the press release, the new public records portal allows users to create an account, track records requests, make online payments if needed and receive records in a central online location.

Mote update on Thursday’s agenda The Anna Maria City Commission will meet at 2 p.m. on Thursday at City Hall, 10005 Gulf Drive. The meeting will begin with general public comment on items not included on the day’s agenda. Mayor Dan Murphy will then provide updates on the Mote Marine pier facility project, the American Rescue Plan funding status and an update on a state appropriation. The consent agenda includes special event permit requests for a March 27 wedding, a Vintage Flea event at City Pier Park on April 10 and an Easter egg hunt on April 16. Thursday’s meeting can be attended in person or by calling 1-929-205-6099 and entering the meeting ID, 85392000280.

Work for the AMI Chamber The Anna Maria Island Chamber of Commerce has an open position at the Manatee Public Beach Kiosk for one or two days a week. The job requires about six hours a week assisting visitors and answering questions about everything AMI. Contact the chamber at info@amichamber.org.

WATER TAXI: Space problematic in Holmes Beach FROM PAGE 3

up for sale to find other offsite parking spaces to lease, an effort that had, as of the joint meeting, not produced any viable results, according to Titsworth. This leaves no parking spaces available for water taxi usage.

She added that the boat basin is small and used by local fishing captains and tour boats, whose operation she wouldn’t want to hinder by trying to get a water taxi in and out of the basin multiple times per day, assuming the channel leading to the basin and the basin itself are even navigable for what could potentially be a large boat.

The only other public boat access to the water is a small Holmes Beach-owned and maintained boat launch located next to the city field park complex which has limited parking, is bordered on three sides by residential areas, is the launch point for emergency response

boats for West Manatee Fire Rescue and the Holmes Beach Police Department and is fairly shallow during low tide, which could hinder the operation of a large water taxi vessel.

All in all, Titsworth said she just didn’t see where in Holmes Beach a water taxi could be docked that would be beneficial to visitors, locals and service workers.

“I think it is a worthy way to reduce traffic, even if Holmes Beach doesn’t have a spot to utilize,” Holmes Beach Commissioner Terry Schaefer said, of the water taxi.

When some Manatee County commissioners accused city leaders of being unwilling to work with them to find a solution for water taxi issues, Holmes Beach Commission Chair Carol Soustek fired back: “If you think the cities haven’t been working to find a way to solve problems, then you haven’t been paying attention.”

Soustek said she’d been

participating in conversations about how to get a water taxi up and working on Anna Maria Island since 2005. She added that “just putting people on a boat” wasn’t the end of the process. To achieve a working water taxi, Soustek said it requires parking on both sides of the water taxi route, a way to move people to and from the docking station on both sides and money to make it all happen. And those issues all exist in addition to having an operator to run the water taxi, water taxi boats and a place to dock the boats at each stop.

In a bid to find common ground, County Commissioner Reggie Bellamy suggested that Soustek and other Island leaders who’ve worked on trying to get a water taxi for the Island share the roadblocks they’ve encountered in that endeavor with county commissioners as a way to begin collaborating on finding a workable solution to getting a water taxi launched.

MARCH 9, 2022

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City considering towing standards and maximum fees The city commission is considering establishing maximum towing fees.

BY JOE HENDRICKS SUN CORRESPONDENT | jhendricks@amisun.com

BRADENTON BEACH – City officials are concerned about the towing practices being used by a Bradenton-based towing company.

City Attorney Ricinda Perry initiated the towing concern discussion during the March 3 city commission meeting. Perry and Police Chief John Cosby were directed by commissioners to develop city-wide towing standards and maximum fees to be considered at a future meeting.

“I have received a number of communications from the community, businesses, elected officials and the police department about towing in the city,” Perry told the commission.

She said state law sets forth how and where towing signs are placed and worded to legally tow a vehicle. She said towing companies have to provide local law enforcement agencies with copies of their current rates and those rates must be posted at the properties where a towing company has towing rights.

JOE HENDRICKS | SUN

City officials are concerned about the fees charged and the business practices sometimes used

by Manatee Towing.

“I don’t really want to get into the business of telling the towing company or business where they’ve got to put the signs,” Perry said. “If they can’t read the statute and put the signs where they belong, then that’s on them; and the individual who is towed has the right to challenge that they

shouldn’t have been towed because it was improperly signed per the statute.”

POLICE CHIEF’S INSIGHT

“We have gotten several requests from attorneys that have dealt with this,” Chief Cosby said. “It’s just one company. My officers have cited them

twice already; one was because they had improper lights on their truck and the other was when they dropped the car off the truck. And they just had an incident up in Holmes Beach where they dropped a Cadillac Escalade off the truck. It veered across traffic and ran into something.”

Cosby told The Sun he was referring specifically to Manatee Towing.

He added that some properties containing the towing company’s signs are under construction or are being renovated and are not occupied or fully occupied. When those properties are occupied, he said, the property managers and patrons should know which vehicles are legally parked there.

Cosby referenced the Anna Maria Inn/Pelican Post resort property at 202 First Street N. and another property on Third Street South where towing has recently occurred.

A visit to the Anna Maria Inn/Pelican Post resort property that evening revealed at least one Manatee Towing sign present on the property.

“The gentleman is being given carte blanche to tow from the area,” Cosby said.

SEE TOWING, PAGE 8

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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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MARCH 9, 2022

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

LETTERS TO THE EDITOR

New police radios a good idea

It was brought before the city commission that the police chief is looking into new radios that would be on the county frequency, which would also be under the 911 dispatch system, where the chief stated they would be in contact with all departments.

This would be a great time for the city to move all dispatch to the 911 system, which we have been paying for through our taxes for some time. This would help cut expenses in the budget because there would be no need for the city to man its own dispatch system. This would also help with responses since calls wouldn’t be evaluated and separated on whether or not there should be a response. The calls would come straight from the 911 system to the officers, one response at a time.

This would give more credibility to our department with enforcement

and reporting.

I hope the commission moves to have everything switched to the 911 dispatch system with the purchase of these new radios. This could be a terrific upgrade in the way the city handles the dispatches to officers in the field.

Richard Motzer Holmes Beach

Silver Sneakers: Lace 'em up As The Center is a venue for hosting many community benefits, I ask that its board revisit its policy on Silver Sneakers, which is a benefit to many and fiscally responsible for The Center’s continuing financial health.

I realize the majority of members are youthful; as they age, the security of longterm benefits will become more attractive for families. Our family settled in Anna Maria in 1965 and we continue to be supportive, proactive residents.

The Center’s mission statement says: “The mission of The Center of Anna Maria Island is to enhance the overall wellbeing of individuals of all ages, while preserving a sense of community through creative programs and partnerships.”

I ask The Center’s board to reconsider a partnership with Medicare’s Silver Sneakers fitness program, as other nonprofit fitness entities are doing.

Silver Sneakers is a benefit of our Medicare premiums, which affords the ability for preventative health care perhaps not otherwise available.

In the true spirit of nondiscrimination, I ask The Center to reconsider its policy and accept the partnership with the SS/Medicare health program Silver Sneakers so that all can profit from their nonprofit community property.

Marsha Lindsey Anna Maria

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MARCH 9, 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.

March 17, 2 p.m. – Reimagining Pine Avenue special meeting

ISLAND-WIDE

March 15, 2 p.m. – Coalition of Barrier Island Elected Officials meeting, Holmes Beach City Hall March 15, 6 p.m. – West Manatee Fire Rescue board of commissioners meeting, administration building, 701 63rd St. W., Bradenton MARKYOUR CALENDAR

BRADENTON BEACH

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

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

March 16, 2 p.m. – Planning and Zoning board meeting March 17, 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.

March 9, 10 a.m. – Clean Water committee meeting March 22, 10 a.m. – Code Compliance special magistrate hearing March 22, 5 p.m. – City Commission meeting with work session to follow

WEDNESDAY, MARCH 9

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

Off Stage Ladies meeting, Scarpino’s Family Restaurant, 6152 14th St. W., Bradenton, noon, $26.

Tortoise Talk, Robinson Preserve, 1704 99th St. N.W., Bradenton, 3:30 p.m.

Island Time Book Club “Confessions on the 7:45,” Island Branch Library, 5701 Marina Drive, Holmes Beach, 6:30 p.m. Reserve online manateelibrary.libcal. com/event/8486382

THURSDAY, MARCH 10 RoserRobics, Roser Church, 512 Pine Ave., Anna Maria, 9:30 a.m., no cost but donations welcome.

AMI Chamber Member Luncheon, Annie’s Bait and Tackle, 4334 127th St. W., Cortez, 11:30 a.m., $18 for members or $30 for prospective members.

Sunshine Stitchers knit and crochet, Island Branch Library, 5701 Marina Drive, Holmes Beach, 2 p.m. Register online at manateelibrary. libcal.com/event/8511520 Thursdays in Paradise Stroll featuring local art, music and food, Bridge Street, Bradenton Beach, 5-8 p.m.

Craft Club, Robinson Preserve Nest, 840 Ninth Ave. N.W., Bradenton, 5:30 p.m.

Bingo, Annie Silver Community Center, 103 23rd St. N., Bradenton Beach, 6 p.m.

FRIDAY, MARCH 11

Seashell Shore Walk, Coquina Beach, 2650 Gulf Drive S., Bradenton Beach, 9 a.m.

Forty Carrots, Island Branch Library, 5701 Marina Drive, Holmes Beach, 10 a.m. Register online manateelibrary. libcal.com/event/8486855 Mahjong Club – Experienced Players, Island Branch Library, 5701 Marina

Drive, Holmes Beach, 11:30 a.m. Register online manateelibrary.libcal.com/ event/8486618 Holmes Beach Art Walk, downtown intersection of Marina and Gulf drives featuring local artists, 5:307:30 p.m.

Bingo, The Center of Anna Maria Island, 407 Magnolia Ave., Anna Maria, 6 p.m.

Cards are 10 for $10

SATURDAY, MARCH 12

Robinson Runners, Robinson Preserve, 1704 99th St. N.W., Bradenton, 8 a.m.

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

Master Gardener Tour, Riverview Pointe Preserve, 8300 DeSoto National Memorial Hwy., Bradenton, 9-11 a.m.

Women of the Moose beach cleanup, AMI Moose Lodge, 110 Gulf Drive S., 9 a.m.

Origami Club, Island Branch Library, 5701 Marina Drive, Holmes Beach, 10 a.m. Reserve online manateelibrary. libcal.com/event/8486406

THE SUN

Music on the Porch, Florida Maritime Museum, Bratton Store porch, 4415 119th St. W., Cortez, 2-4 p.m.

Movies at the Maritime, “Jaws,” 4415 119th St. W., Cortez, 6:30 p.m.

Starry Night Astronomy, Robinson Preserve, 1704 99th St. N.W., Bradenton, 7:30 p.m.

SUNDAY, MARCH 13

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

St. Patrick’s Day Parade, starts at Holmes Beach City Hall and continues to The Center in Anna Maria, 4 p.m.

TUESDAY, MARCH 15

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

RoserRobics, Roser Church, 512 Pine Ave., Anna Maria, 9:30 a.m., no cost but donations welcome.

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

Register online manateelibrary. libcal.com/event/8486816 Mahjong for Beginners, Island Branch Library,

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5701 Marina Drive, Holmes Beach, 11:30 a.m. Register online at manateelibrary. libcal.com/event/8486599 One-on-one tech help, Island Branch Library, 5701 Marina Drive, Holmes Beach, 2-3:30 p.m.

WEDNESDAY, MARCH 16

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

Tortoise Talk, Robinson Preserve, 1704 99th St. N.W., Bradenton, 3:30 p.m.

Seashell art night, Island Branch Library, 5701 Marina Drive, Holmes Beach, 6:30 p.m.

Reserve online manateelibrary. libcal.com/event/8486984

THURSDAY, MARCH 17 Happy St. Patrick’s Day! RoserRobics, Roser Church, 512 Pine Ave., Anna Maria, 9:30 a.m., no cost but donations welcome.

“All About Manatees” presented by Dr. Beth Brady, Lecture and Travel Series presented by the Friends of the Island Library, Roser Church, 512 Pine Ave., Anna Maria, 2 p.m.

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MARCH 9, 2022

TOWING: City considering towing standards and maximum fees FROM PAGE 5

Regarding other properties, Cosby said that before a vehicle can be towed from the Circle K convenience store property the tow truck driver has to consult with the sales clerk.

The towing company has carte blanche to tow cars illegally parked at the Bradenton Beach Post Office, where after-hours and weekend parking is allowed in certain parking spaces only, with three spaces reserved at all times for post office patrons only, he said.

Commissioner Jake Spooner said tow trucks constantly circling in the Bridge Street area contribute to the traffic congestion.

“They’re making a fortune doing it, too,” he added.

Cosby said legal fees being incurred by the towing company may be cutting into their profits.

“I wish we had a company that was somewhat reasonable and professional, where they’re not dropping cars and have functioning equipment,” Spooner said.

He questioned whether the city

could select one towing company to serve as the city’s towing vendor.

Mayor John Chappie noted the city previously issued a request for proposals seeking a designated towing company for the city’s towing needs, but the city received no responses.

Cosby said the city doesn’t have the legal right to require a property owner to use a certain city-approved towing company.

CITY STANDARDS

JOE HENDRICKS | SUN

Spooner asked if the city could establish maximum fees for towing or releasing a vehicle that’s about to be towed. Perry said the state statute allows a city or county government to establish those maximum fees.

“I would suggest the city seriously consider exercising its right under the statute and help mitigate the problem that people are complaining about,” Perry said.

“I’d be happy to do that,” Spooner said.

Spooner then commented on an incident that took place the previ-

The city commission will consider implementing city standards for towing companies. ous night.

“A couple of elderly ladies parked in the handicapped spot in front of the post office,” he recalled. “They (the towing company) jerked their car and now they’re stranded out here. They’ve never taken an Uber in their life.

One of my employees got them an Uber. It creates major issues for people and then you get there and they only take cash and need another Uber to go to a 7-Eleven

or somewhere to get cash.”

“Imagine if your car is in east Bradenton and you have no way to get there,” Spooner said of the inconvenience created by towing.

Perry said she knows someone who was recently towed and had to walk a mile to get cash to get their vehicle back.

Cosby said the city could establish maximum fees, but he doesn’t know how the city could enforce those towing rates that

St. Patrick's Day

are paid to the towing company at its property in Bradenton. He also said every car towed needs to be reported to the Manatee County Sheriff’s Office so the owner knows the vehicle wasn’t stolen.

Commissioner Jan Vosburgh said aggressive tow companies give the city of Bradenton Beach a bad reputation.

Cosby said, “Somebody that has a business in the city – I’m not going to say who – is allowing him to use property in the village (Cortez) to tow the cars to so he doesn’t have to take them all the way out (to the Bradenton headquarters).”

Spooner questioned whether that practice is legal and whether each vehicle has to be towed directly to the towing company property, where the vehicle can be reclaimed.

“That is going to be Manatee County’s responsibility. Once it goes over that bridge, we’re not responsible for it anymore,” Cosby responded.

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MARCH 9, 2022

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No navigational markers for newly dredged channel Last year, the channel was dredged to an average depth of at least 5 feet.

If we put markers in, we are responsible. We

BY JOE HENDRICKS SUN CORRESPONDENT | jhendricks@amisun.com

BRADENTON BEACH – Due to liability and maintenance concerns, navigational markers will not be installed in the recently dredged channel between the Bridge Street Pier and the Coquina North boat ramp.

Over the years, the channel that runs parallel to Bradenton Beach’s bayside shoreline and around Leffis Key became too shallow for some boats to navigate.

Using a state appropriation and a West Coast Inland Navigation District (WCIND) grant, the Bradenton Beach Community Redevelopment Agency (CRA) had the channel dredged in 2021 to an average depth of at least 5 feet.

The dredging project did not include the installation of channel markers.

The possibility of installing channel markers was a topic of discussion during the March 2 CRA meeting and the March 3 city commission meeting.

During Wednesday’s meeting, city attorney and CRA liaison Ricinda Perry said some additional seagrass and mangrove plantings would occur as early as this month to complete the project-related seagrass and mangrove mitigation requirements.

CRA member Jake Spooner then asked about channel markers.

“We did this nice thing, but nobody knows where to go,” Spooner said of the dredged channel.

are liable for it. The county doesn’t even do it unless they absolutely have to.”

CITY OF BRADENTON BEACH | SUBMITTED

John Chappie, Bradenton Beach CRA member

This aerial photograph provides a south to north view of the dredged navigation channel.

Commissioner Jan Vosburgh also expressed concerns about the channel not being marked.

CRA member John Chappie said the channel has always been used by boaters, and even though WCIND designated that area as a navigation channel, to his knowledge the channel has never contained channel markers.

“If we put markers in, we are responsible. We are liable for it. The county doesn’t even do it unless they absolutely have to,” Chappie said.

CRA Chairman Ralph Cole said the installation of channel markers would include a Coast Guard permitting process that if approved would then require the city to maintain the markers and replace any markers that became damaged or went missing.

“If one disappears and someone runs aground because it’s not marked clearly, then you’re liable,” Cole said of

the city’s potential responsibilities.

Cole also said the city could be held liable if a boater was injured or a boat was damaged as a result of running into a channel marker.

“It would be nice if we had some way of showing people. We spent all this money to make that happen and now it’s there but nobody knows where it is,” Spooner reiterated.

Chappie said he’s never heard anyone say they couldn’t find the channel and he noted most boaters have depth finders and/or GPS navigation devices on their boats.

Spooner wondered if the GPS information for the channel has been updated to reflect the deeper depths produced by the dredging.

When addressing another concern, Perry and Police Chief John Cosby said they’re not aware of any of the liveaboard boaters mooring their vessels

in a manner that encroaches on the navigation channel.

The channel marker discussion resumed during Thursday’s city commission meeting.

After Perry displayed aerial photographs of the channel area, Cosby noted there have not been any markers in that channel in the past and Manatee County has no plans to install them.

Cosby said boaters should be able navigate the channel without markers and should avoid the area if they have any navigational concerns. Chappie noted boaters must assume their own navigational responsibilities when using the channel.

Thursday’s discussion ended with no formal action being taken and the discussion appears to have run its course.

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Arts and crafts lovers had a chance to shop the works of local artists at the Invitational Fine Art and Craft Show.

BY JASON SCHAFFER SUN CORRESPONDENT | jschaffer@amisun.com

HOLMES BEACH - Arts and crafts lovers made their way to City Field over the weekend for the annual Invitational Fine Art and Craft Show, which offered everything from custom furniture to hand-crafted jewelry.

ON FANS PRICED $299.99 & UP .99 $ “We’re down here forOR the29 month INSTALL ON FANS PRICED $99 to $299 SOME RESTRICTIONS APPLY. BRING THIS AD INTO STORE FOR DETAILS. PRIOR SALES of March from Grand Rapids, MichiEXCLUDED. NOT COMBINED WITH OTHER OFFERS. DAN'S FAN CITY, LLC LIC#EC13004528 gan, and just came across this,” said Nora Young. “My husband and I are decorating our sunroom back home JASON SCHAFFER | SUN with art from the Island. We have Shoppers stop to peruse local arts and crafts at the Invitational Fine Art and Craft picked up some great stuff here Show in Holmes Beach. already and still have some money left. The prices are really fair and the quality is great.”

Other than some love bugs, which also seem to have a great affinity for fine arts and crafts festivals, it was the perfect weekend as the sun shone over an entire field of artistic treasures.

While many vendors are regulars at shows and events on the Island, some were here for the first time.

ALSO AVAILABLE! “I create custom pet portraits," said Jeanelle Demers, a Maine 3 FINISHES; resident who is now spending the LED LIGHT & REMOTE winter months here in Florida in INCLUDED hopes of growing her business.

"They’re acrylic on canvas. My goal is to capture the personality of the pet and make them come to life on the canvas. Animals are very special, and I like to bring them to life with colors and turn them into a work of art.”

This is one of many events that will be held at City Field throughout the year. Keep an eye on The Sun’s weekly events calendar for more to JASON SCHAFFER | SUN come.

Jeanelle Demers with her pet art at the Invitational Fine Art and Craft Show in Holmes Beach.

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11

AMI Moose Lodge welcomes distinguished visitor The Anna Maria Island Moose Lodge made a $5,000 donation to Moose Charities.

BY JOE HENDRICKS SUN CORRESPONDENT | jhendricks@amisun.com

BRADENTON BEACH – Moose International Board of Directors Chairman Paul Curtis visited Anna Maria Island Moose Lodge #2188 Thursday afternoon and evening.

Accompanied by his wife Bonnie, Curtis stopped by the lodge as part of the couple’s tour of Florida Moose Lodges.

The couple lives in CamasWashougal, Washington and their March 3 visit was their first to Anna Maria Island.

During the visit, Curtis accepted a $5,000 donation from the AMI Moose Lodge and he presented Bradenton Beach Police Chief John Cosby with a box of Tommy Moose stuffed animals to share with youngsters. The couple joined local Moose officers and members for a ribeye steak and shrimp skewer dinner prepared by head chef Zack Machleit and his kitchen crew.

Curtis currently serves in the highest member-elected position within the Moose fraternity.

“As chairman of the board, we’re the goodwill ambassadors for this fraternity. This is a one-year commitment.

During the course of our year, my wife and I spend our

JOE HENDRICKS | SUN

Honored guests, lodge members and lodge officers gathered for a photo on the AMI Moose Lodge’s Gulf-front patio. time traveling throughout the United States visiting different associations and lodges. We tell them how much we appreciate who they are and what they do, and we thank them for being great Moose members,” Curtis told The Sun. “We visited four lodges in Florida. This is the last one on the list. This is really fantastic,” Curtis said of the AMI lodge located along the Gulf of Mexico shoreline.

“This lodge has the largest membership in the United States and Canada; and the Florida association is the biggest association we have in the Moose fraternity. There are

somewhere around 121 Moose Lodges in Florida. I’m from Washington and we have 23 lodges,” Curtis said.

Bonnie Curtis is a Women of the Moose member and last year she received her senior regent’s honor. In that role, she leads meetings and helps organize lodge events, dinners, memorial services and more back in Washington.

“We won the award of achievement for our state. We help take care of the sick and disabled. We take them to doctor’s appointments and things like that. We’re a big family,” she said.

When asked about their

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first visit to the lodge and the Island, she said, “I love this lodge. The people are great and they’re so much fun.”

Lodge administrator Byron Dalton said, “It’s an honor to have a man of Paul’s stature at our lodge and for Paul and Bonnie to join us for dinner.

It’s great that our members get to meet one of the guys in charge of the fraternity.

It’s like a fireside chat for our members and they realize the people at the top of the organization do care about the membership.”

MOOSEHEART CHILD CITY

Curtis received from the AMI

Moose Lodge a $5,000 check made out to Moose Charities in his honor. The money will be used for the new Mooseheart Activity Center (MAC) being built in Mooseheart, Illinois.

Having its own zip code, Mooseheart Child City is a residential childcare facility located on a 1,000-plus-acre campus about 40 miles west of Chicago. Dedicated in 1913, Mooseheart provides housing and care for infants through high-schoolers whose families are unable to care for them.

Regarding the activity center, Curtis said, “It’s the athletic center for the kids on the Mooseheart campus, especially the high school kids.

We’re going to tear down the old athletic center and we’ve already started building the new one. It’s going to have bowling alleys, game rooms, workout rooms, a weight center and other stuff kids want to do. On behalf of our kids on the Mooseheart campus and others, we thank this Moose Lodge from the bottom or our hearts. We’re very appreciative.

“We’re also grateful for the 1.2 million Moose members we have throughout the United States and Canada. Without their membership, support and financial donations, we wouldn’t be able to do what we do for our kids on the Mooseheart campus and our seniors SEE MOOSE, PAGE 12

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MOOSE: Welcomes distinguished visitor FROM PAGE 11

on the Moosehaven campus,” he added.

Moosehaven is a private membership retirement community in Orange Park, just outside of Jacksonville.

TOMMY MOOSE TO THE RESCUE

During Thursday’s visit, Curtis and lodge President Steve Boniberger presented Police Chief Cosby with a box of Tommy Moose plush toys.

“These stuffed animals are presented to first responders throughout the United States and Canada. In the performance of their duty, they run into situations where they have to separate the children from the parents. These Tommy Moose stuffed animals don’t solve the problem, but it helps relieve some of the trauma and tension the child may be going through,” Curtis told the members.

“The Tommy Moose program was started about 18 years ago by the supreme governor at that time, Tommy Hatcher, so it’s been known as Tommy Moose ever since. We’re very proud to present these to our first responders everywhere. From coast to coast, Moose members everywhere respect you, admire you, stand by you and will always have your back.”

Cosby told The Sun his officers give the stuffed animals to children whose parents are involved in traffic accidents and other police interactions.

“It’s something nice to give to the

JOE HENDRICKS | SUN

Above, Police Chief John Cosby, Steve Boniberger, Paul Curtis, Bonnie Curtis and Byron Dalton displayed some of the Tommy Moose plush toys given to the police department.

Right, Thursday’s festivities included a steak and shrimp dinner for members and guests. kids and it provides them a little comfort,” Cosby said.

Friday morning, the Curtis’ headed to Fort Myers before traveling to Jacksonville for the annual Moose Charities and Moosehaven board meetings.

MARCH 9, 2022

MARCH 9, 2022

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13

SUBMITTED | THE CENTER

Richard Marx will bring his pop/rock hits to The Center March 23.

Love song crooner to play The Center The Center of Anna Maria Island will be the place to be March 23 as pop/rock icon Richard Marx takes the stage as part of the Bradenton Gulf Islands Concert Series.

Selling more than 30 million albums worldwide, Marx is the voice behind No. 1 singles “Right Here Waiting” and “Satisfied” and Top 5 singles “Hold on to the Nights” and “Don’t Mean Nothing.” The award-winning singer/ songwriter will hit the stage at 8 p.m. on March 23 for an indoor concert at The Center, 407 Magnolia Ave. in Anna Maria. Doors open at 6 p.m. with an opening act scheduled to begin at 7 p.m. No outside food or drink is allowed but The Sandbar will have a cash bar on site. Valet and street parking are available. Tickets start at $57 and can be purchased online at www.centerami.org/events. The concert series is sponsored by Bradenton Area Arts & Culture, The Sandbar and Cedar Cove Resort and Cottages.

New number for Turtle Watch

‛S YOUR COMFORT ZONE? WHERE

Anna Maria Island Turtle Watch and Shorebird Monitoring has a new phone number. To reach the organization call 941-232-1405 or go online at islandturtlewatch.com.

Turtle Watch has been a fixture on the Island for more than 30 years, coordinating conservation efforts for 12 miles of Manatee County shoreline. In three decades, they have monitored 7,339 turtle activities, protected 4,454 nests, 301,694 turtle eggs, and watched 271,680 hatchlings depart to become future generations of loggerheads that will return to the region as they reach maturity in about 30 years.

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JOE HENDRICKS | SUN

Top, after being sworn in, Officer Kyle Orms, right, was congratulated by Police Chief John Cosby. Above, Accompanied by Chief Cosby, Police Clerk ChrisAnn Allen was sworn in Monday morning. She joined the department in December.

Officer and police clerk sworn in Officer Kyle Orms and Police Clerk ChrisAnn Allen were sworn in as members of the Bradenton Beach Police Department Monday morning.

With Police Chief John Cosby pres-

ent, City Clerk Terri Sanclemente conducted the swearing in ceremonies.

Cosby said with Orms’ hiring the police department is now fully staffed with 10 officers.

MARCH 9, 2022

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MARCH 9, 2022

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15

Island Players bring laughs with ‘A Comedy of Tenors’ The Island Players deliver non-stop laughs in their production of Ken Ludwig’s “A Comedy of Tenors,” playing now at the Island Playhouse.

BY JASON SCHAFFER SUN CORRESPONDENT | jschaffer@amisun.com

ANNA MARIA - The Island Players have struck comedy gold with their latest production, “A Comedy of Tenors,” the fourth of five plays in the 73rd season of productions at the Island Playhouse. Directed

by Preston Boyd, whose wife, Priscilla, is the stage manager, Ken Ludwig’s sequel to his hit, “Lend Me a Tenor” finds that a trio of temperamental tenors, one wife, one lover and a few significant others have been recruited to create havoc, make love to the wrong person, slam the usual number of doors, leap headfirst off a balcony, hide, dress and undress in corresponding bedrooms

with one pretending to be who he is not.

The events all center around world-famous tenor Tito Merelli (John Andruzzi) as he arrives at his Paris hotel with his wife Maria (Valerie Lipscomb) to perform for 30,000 fans at a soccer stadium for a concert being billed as the biggest concert in the history of Paris. Tito is contracted to sing with two other tenors, Max (Mikey Lynch) and Carlo (Colin Brady) for the “show of the century” being promoted by the highly stressed, anxietyriddled producer Saunders (James Thaggard), who wants nothing more than to get the tenors from the luxurious hotel room (brilliantly designed by set designer Jan Van Wart and the construction crew) that is the center of the chaos to the soccer stadium next door.

Unknown to Tito is the affair that is going on between his lovely daughter, Mimi (Katie Zanders), and Carlo, of whom Tito not only disapproves but

JASON SCHAFFER | SUN

The cast of the Island Players’ “A Comedy of Tenors” from left are Colin Brady (Carlo), Sharon Bartley (Tatiana Racon), Valery Lipscomb (Maria), James Thaggard (Saunders), John Andruzzi (Tito), Mikey Lynch (Max) and Katie Zanders (Mimi). who he mistakenly believes is having an affair with his wife.

Add to this mixup the singing hotel porter (also played by Andruzzi) and a sexy Russian soprano (Sharon Bartley) who, unbeknownst to Maria, once had had an affair with Tito be-

2021

fore they were married. Max, who was Saunders’ assistant in “Lend Me a Tenor” and is now his son-in-law, is anxious to get through the concert before his wife (not seen) goes into labor.

Director Boyd does a bril-

liant job of bringing out the best in each actor in this production. Andruzzi is simply hilarious from the moment he walks on stage with his comical Italian accent to the closing of the curtain, playing not only himself but also Beppo, the singing bellhop. The only thing lacking in this play is the audience having backstage access during act two. Doors slamming open and closed, Tito and Beppo being two characters played by one man means lightning-fast costume changes (this is the case for other characters as well) which must be complete pandemonium behind the scenes but is pulled off flawlessly. If only we could get a look at how they must be frantically changing costumes with seconds to spare.

“A Comedy of Tenors” runs through March 20 at the Island Playhouse, 10009 Gulf Drive. Contact the box office at 941-778-5755 or visit www. theislandplayers.org for ticket information.

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OUTDOORS

MARCH 9, 2022

‘We'll see, we’ll see’ Reel Time RUSTY CHINNIS

R

ecently I was intent on fishing an area that has become one of my favorite haunts. Unfortunately, when I got there, another boat was anchored nearby. As I started working my way towards my intended target, yet another boat pulled up behind me, intent on heading in the same direction.

My first reaction? Disappointment crept over me and I was thinking my carefully planned strategy had failed me.

Then I remembered a fable I had read in a book by Zen master Thich Nhat Hahn. In a parable from his book, “The Art of Living,” the poet,

global spiritual leader and international peace activist tells the story of a farmer’s son who fell off his horse and broke his leg. His neighbors tell him how unfortunate that is. His response? “We’ll see, we’ll see.” Two weeks later the military comes to conscript new recruits for a war and his son was not taken because of his broken leg. Once again, the neighbors chime in, this time saying how lucky he and his son are. His response, once again, is, “We’ll see… we’ll see.”

Suddenly my mindset changed and I saw this as an opportunity to maybe actually benefit from what had initially been my frustration.

Although there wasn’t any catching involved, I fished a place close by and discovered some promising areas I had never explored. I’ll definitely return there again as I’ve learned over the years one certain fact about fishing (thank you

Captain Scott Moore), “Fish move around!” How many times over the years have we as fishermen developed a plan that was altered by factors out of our control? Wind, rain, cold, heat, tides, competition for territory and a hundred other things conspire to alter and sometimes completely destroy a wellthought-out plan.

While it doesn’t always turn out to be advantageous, who hasn’t in hindsight looked and found perceived disruptions to be “blessings in disguise?” Over-optimistic, you say? Maybe, but I’d rather look for the proverbial “pony under there somewhere” than let disruption ruin my day.

Don’t get me wrong, I am totally a fan of having a plan for my fishing.

I’ll check tides, wind and myriad other factors to try and develop a strategy to improve my odds of catching fish. Having said that, it’s

good to have a backup plan that includes addressing the actual conditions you find on any given day.

Maybe it’s the fact that I’m not really good at finding fish. I jokingly ”and fully in earnest” comment on the fact that fish and I don’t see things alike; the places I find that should hold fish don’t seem to appeal to them.

Then there’s the strategy of being persistent, definitely an advantage as fish get more spread out, pressured and spooky. Another seasoned fishing guide has a saying that resonates with me. Captain Steve Huff, arguably one of the best guides the Florida Keys ever produced, likes to tell anglers who seek his advice, “pole far enough and the fish will find you.” My advice? Go out with a plan but be willing to make a change. Will that strategy pay off?

We’ll see, we’ll see.

MARCH 9, 2022

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21

CAPTAIN DAVE WHITE | SUBMITTED

Shawn Kircher, of Old Bridge, N.J., shows off a beautiful African pompano caught with Captain David White of Anna Maria Charters.

Inshore fishing heats up with temperatures CAPTAIN DAVE WHITE

The weather has finally been good to us here the last week or so! We here at Anna Maria Charters are thoroughly enjoying the rise in temperatures and the drop in winds. The fish are loving it as well. On our inshore trips, snook season opened March 1 and you’re allowed to take them for harvest north of the Manatee Bridge. The last red tide was tough on these animals, so we try to discourage our clients from keeping them as much as possible. But at the end of the day, it’s legal, and the customer is top priority. But we try to keep them as informed as possible and let them know there are other great eating species to target that are more migratory and, therefore, less susceptible to water quality issues. As we push further into summer, the mangrove snapper will be more prevalent. We’re already getting limits for our clients and the water barely hit 70.

So, it should be a banner year for them. We’re also getting redfish, trout and starting to see a Spanish mackerel or two.

Personally, I’ve been excited to get offshore. The windy winter has kept me inshore and the slicked-out conditions are a fresh change for us. We did well on red

grouper under 120’, mangrove snapper and my favorite, African pompano. Live pinfish seem to be the go-to right now. We caught pompano up to 32 lbs. last week.

And if you’ve never eaten it, it’s definitely some of the best meat on the planet. It looks like we’ll have another week of great temperatures ahead. And things will only improve.

CAPTAIN RICK GRASSETT

Anglers fishing with me out of CB’s Saltwater Outfitters on Siesta Key recently had good action catching and releasing snook, reds and trout in Gasparilla Sound, trout in Sarasota Bay and snook and blues in the ICW at night on flies and DOA Lures.

Keith McClintock, from Lake Forest, Ill., fished backcountry areas of Gasparilla Sound on a couple of trips with me recently and had some action catching and releasing several reds, trout and snook on CAL jigs with shad tails. Friends Steve and Kathy Gibson also got in on the action in Gasparilla Sound, sight fishing several snook to 30”, redfish and several trout to 4-lbs on a Mirrodine and jerk worms on another trip with me recently.

Palmetto winter resident, Jerry Poslusny, had some action catching and releasing snook and blues on flies in the ICW on a couple of night trips with me recently. Bill Morrison, from Anna Maria Island, and grandsons, Patrick and Chris, from Massachusetts, fished Sarasota Bay with me and had good action with trout to 18” on CAL jigs with shad tails and Clouser flies.

There are still a few spots left for CB’s Saltwater Outfitters Orvis-endorsed fly fishing school on March 19. Contact them at (941) 349-4400 to sign up. Look for reds, snook and larger trout in shallow water.

Fishing deep grass flats of Sarasota Bay is usually a good choice for action with a variety of species including trout, pompano, blues and more.

Snook at night around dock lights in the ICW is also a good option depending on conditions. Our natural resources are under constant pressure from red tides fueled by industrial, agricultural and residential runoff, toxic spills and discharges, freezes, increasing fishing pressure and habitat loss and degradation, please limit your kill, don’t kill your limit!

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MARCH 9, 2022

PARKING: Holmes Beach and Manatee County leaders meet FROM PAGE 1

BEACH PATROL

During a discussion on beach patrol funding, Titsworth said she’d like the county to step up their financial support of the Holmes Beach Police Department, which is tasked with policing the county-owned beach, public beaches in Holmes Beach and Kingfish Boat Ramp, along with the rest of the city. While the county currently reimburses the city $46,612 for beach patrol services, Titsworth said the city pays about $150,000-160,000 per year to adequately patrol the beaches, boat ramp and beach parking.

The mayor said she’d like to see the county increase its financial support, working up to a minimum of $90,000 per year to be more in line with the amount offered to the Bradenton Beach Police Department annually for similar services, and ideally $115,000 or more to cover the entire cost of one HBPD officer.

While Titsworth acknowledged that the city of Bradenton Beach has a longer stretch of countyowned beach, she noted that Holmes Beach is a larger city and provides more public parking for beachgoers than the Anna Maria Island city to the south.

Manatee County Commissioner George Kruse said that while he appreciates Titsworth’s request for more beach patrol funding, he wanted to know what city leaders are prepared to do for the county in exchange for additional funding, a sentiment echoed by Commissioner Vanessa Baugh.

Holmes Beach Commissioner Terry Schaefer said Holmes Beach city leaders had come to the meeting to discuss items of concern, not to try and leverage one item for another.

County Commissioner Carol Whitmore, a Holmes Beach resident, said she thinks the stretch of beach in Holmes Beach is too small to necessitate the spending of more funds to police it. County Administrator Scott Hopes said he thinks the county’s funding to Holmes Beach is complementary to the amount given to Bradenton Beach, $125,000, given the size of the city versus the size of the county park, Manatee Beach and Kingfish Boat Ramp within the city.

ACCUSATIONS FLY

When leaders began discussing beach parking, accusations began to fly on both sides.

Van Ostenbridge accused Holmes Beach leaders of having less than 1% of the population of

Manatee County and closing its beaches to 99% of Manatee County residents to save its own residents.

Titsworth called out Van Ostenbridge for “weaponizing funding” in a bid to try and force city leaders’ hands to allow beach parking to go unrestricted in the small city to the detriment of Holmes Beach residents, who, she pointed out, are also Manatee County residents who pay county taxes. She accused Manatee County commissioners of being unwilling to work with the city and learn the facts about what happens in the Island city and how issues affect residents and tourists alike.

At the crux of the discussion was the status of about 480 parking spaces located solely on the sides of residential streets in neighborhoods near beach accesses. Those residential streets are maintained by the city of Holmes Beach and are funded by tax dollars paid to the city, not the county. Public parking also has long been a headache for nearby residents, who often find trash and litter in their yards, people vandalizing their property, some trespassing and using their private pools and water hoses as public facilities and others defecating in their yards.

After more than a decade of discussion, 124 of those 480 spaces were designated in 2021 as Holmes Beach resident permit parking only from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. daily after being closed to public access since 2020. Ever since that decision was made by Holmes Beach commissioners, it’s been a sore spot between city and county leaders.

Van Ostenbridge demanded that city leaders reopen all city streets to public parking.

“You want 400 spaces?” Soustek countered. “480 parking spaces is a spit in the ocean,” she said, noting that the number of people trying to find parking in Holmes Beach regularly exceeds that amount.

She added that opening residential streets to the onslaught of beach parking wouldn’t guarantee Manatee County residents a space to park, that they would still need to get up early to drive out to the Island to avoid traffic and parking stresses.

Holmes Beach Commissioner Jayne Christenson suggested county commissioners designate some of the spaces at Manatee Beach as Manatee County resident-only parking, a suggestion dismissed by county commissioners without comment.

“You’ll never have enough spaces and the people will never all be able to get out to the beach,” Titsworth

We’ve been coming there (to Anna Maria Island) for nine years. This was our last time.

Ridiculous traffic!

KRISTIN SWAIN | SUN

Holmes Beach and Manatee County leaders gathered together on March 1 at the county’s administration building to talk about building a better working relationship. The conversation quickly turned to beach parking.

So many other beautiful beaches to see.

Anita Cooney, from Michigan On The Sun’s Facebook page

KRISTIN SWAIN | SUN

With more visitors and locals coming to Anna Maria Island beaches every year, the issue of available parking near beach access points continues to cause animosity between city and county leaders. said, noting all of the housing developments currently planned for Manatee County and the increase of people expected to travel to Anna Maria Island’s beaches. At about seven miles long, with about three miles of that being Holmes Beach, she said Anna Maria Island only has so much room to fit people and vehicles on.

City Commissioner Terry Schaefer said residential street parking wasn’t going to be used as a bargaining chip between the city and county.

Whitmore said that while she wants to work with city leaders, she’s opposed to the permit parking system and refuses to pay for one.

She also said she feels that Holmes Beach has too many rules, including the newly instituted city-wide 25 mph speed limit.

GETTING DOWN TO BUSINESS

With tensions already flaring between the two groups, Manatee County Director of Parks and Natural Resources Charlie Hunsicker offered the results of a parking study conducted by APTIM/CPE, an independent group. The field study was completed in 2020 with the report from that study dated September 2021. The study area was limited to the city of Holmes Beach and conducted on parking spaces located within a quarter-mile of beach access points and compared to a similar report from 2013.

According to that report, the city of Holmes Beach has 775 public

parking spots located within a quarter-mile of public beach access points, with an additional 480 spaces that are either without a sign or reserved/permit only. According to the 2013 report, there were 1,255 public parking spaces with the only change being 480 spaces converted to unsigned/reserved status.

Of those 480 spaces, 124 were reserved for resident permit-only parking from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. with the other 356 “lost” spaces being attributed to parking obstructions and a potential increase in no parking signed areas. Signed public parking spaces in the study area actually increased by 12, with the number of unsigned spaces decreasing by 492 from 2013 to 2020, reducing driver uncertainty on where parking is allowed.

To receive beach renourishment funding, Holmes Beach is required by the state to have 364 public parking spaces located within a quarter-mile of the beach. In the city’s interlocal agreement with the county regarding beach renourishment funding, Holmes Beach is committed to having about 500 spaces within a quarter-mile of the beach. Currently, there are more than 1,200 public parking spaces, not including resident permit parking spaces, located within a quarter-mile of public beach access with more available throughout the city but located outside of the quarter-mile area.

Titsworth said she’s not only concerned with the issues resi-

dents see in neighborhoods but how those issues could also affect the city’s tourism, with more than 1,500 short-term rental properties located in residential neighborhoods. She added that for people just coming to the beach for the day, there need to be adequate restroom, trash and food facilities as well as crosswalks to get safely from parking areas to the beach.

PARKING GARAGE

Another idea floated around during the meeting was the construction of a parking garage in Holmes Beach to provide more public parking.

Titsworth suggested commissioners consider the purchase of additional property in the city to build a garage on, such as the old Bank of America building on the southeast corner of East Bay Drive and Manatee Avenue. The site is located about two blocks from the entrance to Manatee Beach.

That idea was shot down by Manatee County commissioners. Whitmore said it wasn’t worth it to the county to build a parking garage limited to the city’s 36-foot building height limitations. Titsworth said that with the height limitations in the city’s charter, it would take Holmes Beach voters casting their ballots in favor of changing it to allow for a larger garage to be built.

Van Ostenbridge said he opposes purchasing additional property in Holmes Beach and if commissioners decide to build a parking garage in the city, he’d want it to be at Manatee Beach.

Another meeting between Manatee County commissioners and Holmes Beach city leaders is planned to take place in the future to continue discussions.

MARCH 9, 2022

FOOD & WINE

THE SUN

23

Celebrating Ukrainian culture with pierogis Brian Mathae HURRICANE HANKS

I

’ve been glued to the coverage of the invasion of Ukraine. I am aghast at the death and destruction inflicted on the innocent people of Ukraine.

Many of my friends from Canada are of Ukrainian descent. Seeing their social media posts about the worry they feel for their relatives back in Ukraine is incredibly saddening and maddening.

Growing up, I never really thought about the history of Ukraine or the issues its people faced. I just knew Ukrainians as friends and neighbors who were kind and generous. Their traditions were shared with us, including very vibrant dance groups, elaborately decorated Easter eggs and, of course, some great cultural food.

We were very fortunate to experience church dinners, fall suppers and fundraising events where authentic dishes

Gorgonzola, Fig and Rosemary Pierogis

SUBMITTED

were prepared. We always left beyond stuffed! I’ve written about several of the traditional dishes in past articles and include a favorite dish today.

I’ve recently educated myself about Ukrainians in Canada. Initially I was surprised to learn that due to several different periods of immigration,

Dough Ingredients:

(makes 30 - 40 pierogis)

4 cups sour cream 4 cups all-purpose flour 2 tbs salt

Filling Ingredients

Garnish:

5 medium peeled russet potatoes 1/2 tsp salt 2 tbs butter, melted 3/4 cup crumbled gorgonzola cheese 4 tbs fig jam 1 tsp finely chopped fresh rosemary

Salt Pepper 1 cup sour cream 2 tbs chopped rosemary

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Canada has the world’s third-largest Ukrainian population behind Ukraine itself and Russia. The first wave of immigration to Canada started in the late 1890s. Approximately 170,000 Ukrainians from the Austro-Hungarian Empire territory arrived in Canada during that time. Subsequent larger waves of im-

Egg wash: 1 egg 2 tbs water

Directions

Gently mix the dough ingredients by hand and let rest refrigerated overnight. The next day, boil the potatoes until they are easily pierced with a fork.

Drain potatoes and allow steam to evaporate for 5 minutes, then mash. Add remaining ingredients and mix well. Set aside while rolling out dough.

Roll the dough on a floured surface and cut

migration occurred until the collapse of the USSR in 1991. Since then, there has been continuing immigration, but not as significant to necessarily call it another wave.

I was born in Winnipeg, Canada.

Census data indicates that just over 15% of Winnipeg’s population is of Ukrainian descent. In hindsight, that makes sense. That’s why we were so influenced by Ukrainian culture. My heart goes out to all my friends who are suffering and we celebrate their culture with today’s submission.

Varenyky, or pierogis, are filled dumplings made by wrapping unleavened dough around a savory or sweet filling. Typically, they are cooked in boiling water, but can be deep fried or pan fried after boiling. Baked pierogi casseroles also make an interesting dish. While typical ingredients are potato and cheese, you can use any filling you like. I tasted this recipe several years ago and was blown away by the flavor. It’s a new twist on a traditional recipe. We do hope you enjoy.

circles 3 inches in diameter using a coffee mug or large glass. Place a spoonful of the filling in the center of each circle. Lightly brush egg wash on the dough edges. Fold the dough over and pinch the edges firmly to seal them. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and slowly drop the pierogis in, cooking for 4 or 5 minutes or until they float. Remove and toss in a sauté pan of melted butter to finish for a few minutes. Serve immediately with salt and freshly ground pepper to taste along with some chopped fresh rosemary and sour cream.

24

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Artists’ Guild offering its latest class

recording, which is available for 30 days following completion. Visit www.amiartistsguildgallery.com.

The Anna Maria Island Artists’ Guild Gallery is offering a fourhour, online watercolor Zoom class with artist Cheryl Jorgensen. The class will be held on March 21 and March 22 and the fee is $56. The class will focus on colorful leaves and how shadows can liven up the composition. Jorgensen will be painting in mostly oranges and browns. Those unable to attend the day of the class will still get all materials and access to the class

Trolley advertising now available The Anna Maria Island trolley has advertising opportunities available for both inside and outside the trolley busses. Trolley advertising is available for all budgets starting at $150. With 311,000 riders in 2020, your ad will be seen by locals and visitors. Contact Terri at terri@amichamber.org for more information.

Top real estate producers for February 2022 A PARADISE

Kathy Nunnally - Listing Quinton Talbert - Selling

AN ISLAND PLACE REALTY Sue Carlson - Listing Tanya McCormick - Selling

DUNCAN REAL ESTATE Cindy Jones – Listing Robyn Hawk - Selling

EDGEWATER REAL ESTATE

Lynn Zemmer - Listing & Selling

FRAN MAXON

Stephanie Bell – Listing & Selling

ISLAND REAL ESTATE

Alan Galletto - Listing Kathleen White and Erin Leathem – Selling

MICHAEL SAUNDERS

Kathy Harman - Listing Hannah Hillyard - Selling

MIKE NORMAN

Carla Beddow - Listing Chet Coleman – Selling

PREMIER SOTHEBY

Lisa Rooks Morris - Selling

REMAX ALLIANCE GROUP

Christine Kourik – Listing & Selling

SALTY MERMAID REAL ESTATE Liz Blandford – Listing & Selling

SATO REAL ESTATE

Jason Sato – Listing & Selling

WAGNER REAL ESTATE Carmen Pedota - Selling

MARCH 9, 2022

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MARCH 9, 2022

THE SUN

25

KRISTIN SWAIN | SUN

Subway is out and Los Chiludos is coming in with a planned opening in late May or June.

New restaurant comes to Holmes Beach If you’ve been over to the Anna Maria Island Shops on East Bay Drive in Holmes Beach, you may have noticed a change happening. The Subway sandwich shop previously located in the center shuttered its storefront at the end of February without fanfare or even an announcement. The space won’t stay vacant, though, as Los Chiludos Mexican Restaurant and Catering was announced as the new tenant for the space March 1. With a planned opening in late May or early June, the restaurant will be a quick service spot with fresh ingredients and all of your Mexican dish favorites rotating through the menu. Los Chiludos will be located at 3232 East Bay Drive in Holmes Beach.

TYING THE KNOT IN PARADISE

TIME TO O

shell-a-brate.

A naMa An na aMa ariiaI aIsl slan sl an ndV dVen e ue ues. s..co om

Spring is in the air and that brings destination weddings and their guests to the Island. On any given day, beach walks turn into impromptu wedding sightings. Everything from barefoot walks down the aisle to more traditional, formal weddings can be found on this destination wedding hotspot. As the pandemic subsides, wedding experts and bloggers are predicting this will be the biggest wedding year to date.

Many Island businesses specialize in planning and hosting tropical paradise weddings, anniversary celebrations and vow renewals. The Sandbar in Anna Maria and the Beach House in Bradenton Beach are at the top of the list when it comes to toes in the sand, waterfront nuptials.

Outdoor venues are perfect for anyone with COVID-cautious guests. Open air ceremonies and receptions are increasingly popular right now as guests can spread out and access fresh air.

Molly Powers, the Event Sales Director for Anna Maria Island Venues organizes events at The Sandbar Restaurant and The Beach House and says that couples are eager to make reservations again for the wedding of their dreams and has seen some noteworthy trends that have come from the pandemic.

Shorter lead times are needed this year and key dates are still available as people begin to feel comfortable with travel again. Currently, couples are organizing a wedding in six months or less. Summer weddings are always a good choice on the Island. There’s a beautiful Gulf breeze, the

,VODQG LVQ¶W DV FURZGHG DQG JXHVWV FDQ ¿QG PRUH reasonably priced accommodations.

Organizers are also seeing a trend with venue and reception combination packages. Brides are choosing to get married and have the reception at the same location, eliminating the need for third party transportation. Catering agreements with the reception venue are also trending, eliminating the need for an outside food vendor. Fewer vendors make the event organization smoother and speedier.

Another wedding tip for 2022 is to schedule the rehearsal dinner and farewell brunch at the same time as scheduling the wedding. Venues book up with wedding dates so it’s important to go ahead and reserve the supporting event locations as well.

Boho weddings continue to be popular, DQG EHDFK ZHGGLQJV ¿W WKDW YLEH SHUIHFWO\ 7KH natural beauty of a beach wedding often means deFUHDVHG ÀRUDO FRVWV ZKLFK LV RIWHQ RQH RI WKH PRUH expensive features of an indoor wedding. Natural décor such as seashells photograph well and set the stage for a gorgeous wedding day.

The attentive events team at Anna Maria Island Venues specialize in long distance planning and personalized care. In fact, Molly, the Event Director was married at the Sandbar in 2005, and Shawn Rhoton, Catering Sales Manager was married at the Beach House in 2006!

Content provided by: The Chiles Group

26

THE SUN

REAL ESTATE

MARCH 9, 2022

When will the real estate market return to normal?

T

he definition of “normal” is conforming to a standard; usual, typical or expected. This statement in no way resembles the real estate market we find ourselves in, and even economists whose job it is to know these things have no real clear idea of when “normal” will resume.

Last week, we published the January Manatee County real estate sales and, of course, we had another record-breaking month for both Sarasota and Manatee counties. For the third straight month, median prices have increased month over month in the two-county region. Singlefamily home prices increased year over year by 36.6% to a median of $464,500 in Sarasota County and an increase of 29.7% in Manatee County to $480,000. Condos also had large increases; Sarasota’s condo median sale price was $350,000, up 15.8%, and Manatee County’s median condo

Castles in the Sand LOUISE BOLGER sales price was $301,000, an increase of 30.3%.

In addition, according to the Realtor Association of Sarasota and Manatee, the Sarasota and Manatee housing market starts off the year with the lowest level of inventory reported in January. Nevertheless, January had more new listings than closed sales in both counties. Sarasota had 811 new listings and 553 sales, and Manatee had 712 new listings and 539 sales.

It remains to be seen if this trend will continue. And, as prices and interest rates go up, there should be additional supply. Homeowners are

likely watching the market carefully, trying to determine the best time to put their home on the market before the leveling off begins, if that, indeed, ever happens.

Nationally, the median existinghome sale price for January was $350,300, an increase of 15.4%. This is well below what we’re experiencing in Sarasota and Manatee counties. Generally, all over the country, the housing market continues to be booming, with an 18.8% increase for the 12 months ending in December, according to the annual S&P CoreLogic Case-Shiller National Home Price Index, which measures average home prices around the country.

Phoenix had the fastest home-price growth in the country for the 31st straight month at 32.5%. Tampa posted the second-fastest growth rate at 29.4%.

First-time buyers are having a terrible time trying to compete with

cash buyers and investors. The share of first-time buyers in the market fell to 27% in January from 33% a year earlier, according to the National Association of Realtors. If we are ever to return to normal, we need those first-time buyers. They are the engine of the real estate market, buying the homes of established homeowners who either want to move up or retire. Without them, we’re stuck in a real estate fantasy land that won’t end well.

These are a lot of statistics to wrap your brain around, and we are in a kind of time warp that we know is going to end, but we just don’t know when. Ideally, there will be a slow leveling-off, but based on the beach and road activity this past month, there are many out-of-state visitors here and a good percentage of them are interested in buying property.

Normal may be in our future - but not just yet.

www.amisun.com

MARCH 9, 2022

Comp plan changes heading to public hearing Changes to the Holmes Beach comprehensive plan will have a public hearing Tuesday, March 8.

BY KRISTIN SWAIN

SUN STAFF WRITER | kswain@amisun.com

HOLMES BEACH – It’s taken about 18 months for the Planning Commission to finish its review and revisions of the city’s comprehensive plan, and now city commissioners are ready to discuss those changes at a public hearing.

During a Feb. 22 work session, city commissioners reviewed the changes to the comprehensive plan submitted by planning commissioners along with representatives from LaRue Planning, who assisted in the audit.

Some of the biggest proposed changes include the addition of a property rights element and the incorporation of arts and

culture as a part of the recreation element. Each element of the comprehensive plan was also amended to make it easier to understand and to incorporate the city’s vision and value statements.

City commissioners praised everyone who worked on the revisions.

“A lot of people worked very hard on this. It took a lot of time,” Commissioner Carol Soustek said. “I think it’s about as good as it can get. It’s so clean now.”

As a part of the comprehensive plan review, planning commissioners held several public meetings along with a workshop to go over the proposed changes and get public input.

Now the amended comprehensive plan will go before city commissioners for a public hearing and a vote at the Tuesday, March 8 meeting before being submitted to the Florida Department of Economic Op-

portunity (DEO) for review.

If the changes pass the city commission’s first vote, they must be submitted to the DEO within 10 days, after which that organization has 30 days to review and provide comments and required changes to the document.

After those comments are received and any necessary revisions are made, city commissioners must schedule a final public hearing and vote for the comprehensive plan before it is resubmitted to the DEO for a final review and then officially adopted by the city.

City commissioners estimate the comprehensive plan changes could be officially adopted as early as the end of June, pending approval by the state.

To review all of the proposed changes for the comprehensive plan, visit the LaRue Planning website.

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27

Help illustrate the comprehensive plan

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

HOLMES BEACH – Planning commissioners are seeking 10 amazing photos taken in the city to help introduce each element of the updated comprehensive plan.

Photographs must be taken in the city of Holmes Beach and represent one of the 10 elements of the comprehensive plan – future land use; transportation; housing; infrastructure; coastal management and conservation; recreation, open space, arts and culture; intergovernmental coordination; capital improvement; public school facilities; and property rights.

Photographers are welcome to enter as many photographs as they wish. Please make sure that each submission lists which element of the comprehensive plan the image represents.

The deadline to enter the photo contest is Saturday, March 19. All submissions should be emailed to Greg Kerchner at gkerchner@holmesbeachfl. org.

Ten winning photographs will be chosen by planning commissioners. All winners must be willing to sign a release to allow the use of the photographs by the city of Holmes Beach.

28

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MARCH 9, 2022

Committee hopes to resolve Adopt-A-Spot issues

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

HOLMES BEACH – Parks and Beautification Committee members have been working hard on relaunching the city’s Adopt-A-Spot program in a bid to enhance the natural beauty of this Anna Maria Island city. Now, they’re appealing to city leaders for a little more involvement from staff.

While committee members are happy with the number of people and local

COVID-19 IN MANATEE COUNTY SCHOOLS

Feb. 28 Anna Maria Elementary - 0 staff, 0 students Manatee County - 0 staff, 3 students Total since first day of school (AME) - 2 staff, 24 students Total since first day of school (county) - 856 staff, 4501 students Feb. 8 Anna Maria Elementary - 0 staff, 0 students Manatee County - 0 staff, 0 students Total since first day of school (AME) - 2 staff, 25 students Total since first day of school (county) - 860 staff, 4510 students

businesses willing to lend a helping hand to beautify and maintain pocket parks and other locations throughout the city, they’re not as happy with a lack of response to applicants from Holmes Beach City Hall staff. During a March 2 meeting, which Holmes Beach engineer and committee chair Sage Kamiya was absent from, committee members discussed ongoing issues with the Adopt-A-Spot program.

Committee member Mary Lange said she had submitted an application for

COVID-19 IN MANATEE COUNTY

Feb. 28 Cases 460 % Positivity 9.38% Deaths 15 % Eligible population vaccinated 63.7% New hospital admissions 54 Mar. 8 Cases 297 % Positivity 5.14% Deaths 23 % Eligible population vaccinated 63.9% New hospital admissions 21 Source: CDC, Manatee County Schools

her adopted spot back in late 2021 but had received no response or acknowledgment from the city. Fellow committee member Eileen Jellison said she’d had the same issue. With a lack of communication from the city, Jellison said it leaves spot adopters and potential adopters in a kind of limbo where they’re not sure what they’re supposed to be doing or if they’re approved to work on their chosen spots.

“This is unacceptable for the city,” Jellison said. “This is not a good look

for the city.”

City Commission Chair Carol Soustek, liaison to the committee, was present at the meeting and promised to bring the committee’s concerns before Mayor Judy Titsworth to see how the mayor wants to handle it and if she wants to put a specific city employee in charge of receiving and following up on Adopt-A-Spot applications. The employee would also serve as the primary point of contact for participants in the program.

Januaray 2022 tourist tax collections compared to January 2021

Anna Maria Bradenton Beach Holmes Beach Manatee County Total*

6% 37% 40% 34%

*(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 tourismrelated attractions such as the Bradenton Beach and Anna Maria piers. Amounts shown were collected in January and paid to the Manatee County Tax Collector’s Office in February. 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

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MARCH 9, 2022

THE SUN

29

No solutions found to parking issues Former and current Holmes Beach mayors continue to debate parking ideas for Anna Maria Island.

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

MANATEE COUNTY – After a joint meeting between Manatee County commissioners and Holmes Beach city leaders didn’t satisfy either side regarding beach parking, the discussion is continuing by email.

After the March 1 meeting, county Commissioner Carol Whitmore, a Holmes Beach resident and former mayor of the city, and Holmes Beach Mayor Judy Titsworth began the exchange, with Whitmore listing what she took away from the joint meeting as actionable items on behalf of the county and the city.

She mentioned revamping the land lease at the Island Branch Library to use the site as after-hours beach parking, building a three- to fourstory parking garage at Manatee Beach, allowing angled street

parking along Manatee Avenue, allowing public parking at city hall and placing portable toilets at all possible designated parking areas with the agreement of both municipalities.

In her response, Titsworth addressed each issue, noting that public parking has always been allowed at city hall and that she would look at the agreement for the library land lease to see what can be done.

Regarding a parking garage, she said that she felt a garage could be constructed within the city’s height limits, 36 feet, and that county leaders would need to look at zoning requirements before planning to build a garage.

Titsworth also noted that parking along the side of Manatee Avenue between East Bay and Gulf drives isn’t allowed because of safety due to traffic congestion and that, if a change were to be made, it would have to be approved by not only city traffic engineers but also by state traffic engineers due to Manatee Avenue’s status as a state road.

The emails continued into the weekend with Whitmore stating

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LONGBOAT KEY 580 Birdie Lane 5 Beds 3/1 Baths 3,504 Sq. Ft. Julie Klick & Beverly St Hilaire 941-780-6001 A4525564 $3,695,000

HOLMES BEACH 530 67th Street 3 Beds 2 Baths 1,429 Sq. Ft. Becky Sirigotis 941-201-8000 A4525433 $1,950,000

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that she felt Titsworth was saying “no” to a parking garage in her response. She added that she feels it should be up to the residents of Holmes Beach to decide the fate of a parking garage, should county leaders go in that direction. Titsworth said during the joint meeting discussion on parking garages that if Manatee County leaders want to build a parking garage at Manatee Beach or any other location within the city larger than the current building height limitations, it would require a change of charter, which needs resident support at the polls.

Whitmore also said that she feels the crosswalk at Anna Maria Elementary is enough to keep pedestrians safe as they leave beach parking at the school to cross Gulf Drive to walk to a beach access.

She noted that the school crosswalk does not currently have a flashing beacon, as recommended by Titsworth.

In the hours before and after school, there is a school zone speed limit of 15 mph with a flashing beacon and Holmes Beach police or

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code compliance officers serve as crossing guards at the location. The ordinary speed through the area is 25 mph.

In her email, Whitmore also noted that she feels Titsworth’s comments on angled parking along Manatee Avenue are contradictory. She said that the area was regularly used for public parking for years before being closed due to safety concerns a few years ago. When Manatee County leaders closed the parking on the right of way further east on Manatee Avenue now used for the Kingfish Boat Ramp’s auxiliary parking, Whitmore said Titsworth appealed to the county’s leadership to reopen the spaces for boater use.

Whitmore said she sees no difference in the use of the two different areas.

In response, Titsworth invited Whitmore and other county leaders to come to the Tuesday, March 8 Holmes Beach commission work session where commissioners plan to discuss the joint meeting with Manatee County commissioners and what the next steps are for the city to move forward.

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30

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BEACH BEAT HOLMES BEACH

2/23, 6:30 a.m., grand theft of motor vehicle, 3008 Ave. E. Complainant stated her vehicle was used by her son and daughter-in-law the previous day and they left it unlocked with the keys inside. A search of the area yielded no results. The vehicle was recovered on 2/26 by police in Sarasota. Two juvenile suspects were arrested inside the vehicle and both were in possession of firearms. The vehicle did not appear damaged and was returned to the owner.

2/26, 8:51 p.m., information report, 100 52nd St. The officer was dispatched

NEWS BRIEFS Have wine with friends for a cause The Center of Anna Maria Island is hosting a night of wine, wit and wisdom featuring the words of Thomas Jefferson. Wine Tasting with Center Friends will be an evening of lighthearted fun, with an excellent selection of vintages and light appetizers. There also will be a silent auction. The event takes place on March 19 beginning at 4:30 p.m. and is presented by the Olive Oil Outpost. Tickets are $50 each and can be purchased online at www.centerami.org/events. The Center is at 407 Magnolia Ave. in Anna Maria. Funds raised from the event go to sponsor The Center’s programs.

to a possible drunk person at the 52nd St. beach access. The officer made contact with four subjects, two males who appeared to not be related to the incident, as well as a female who left the scene, and a fourth female who appeared to be very intoxicated with slurred speech and smelled of alcohol. Police learned the female subject went to IMG Academy and was at the beach with friends from her golf team. A staff member from IMG came and picked up the female subject and her father was contacted.

2/27, 5:37 p.m., grand theft (controlled substance), 206 66th. St. The victim told police his mother was terminally ill and instead of hospice, wanted to spend her final days at the beach. The victim filled a Fentanyl patch prescription at

Butterfly garden returning to Holmes Beach HOLMES BEACH – The former butterfly garden next to city hall is undergoing a transformation to become one again.

The city’s Parks and Beautification Committee plans to resurrect the butterfly park in its original location, where bricks that form a butterfly motif are still visible, along with the names of donors who made the park possible.

Now known as Veteran’s Park, the name won’t change, and a memorial wall is planned to honor Anna Maria Island’s late military veterans.

In addition, large planter boxes surrounding the water fountain are planned to be the prototype for a community garden.

the pharmacy for his mother and brought it back to the house. The victim said the exhaust fan was not working in the kitchen so the rental company sent a technician.

After the technician was leaving the unit, he told the victim there was no smoking in the house.

The victim stated there were some cigarettes on the bedroom nightstand upstairs, but they only smoked outside. The victim said the only way the technician could have known about the cigarettes was if he had been in the bedroom, which is where the medication was also stored. Police are waiting to speak to the technician, who was said to be one of the company’s oldest and most reliable employees. The case remains under investigation.

Committee member Mary Lange said she applied for and received a grant from the Florida Native Plant Society for up to $500 to purchase butterfly-friendly plants for the garden space.

Soil for the project is on order through the city’s public works department, with Lange planning to order the plants from Sweetbay Nursery once the soil arrives, possibly within the next couple of weeks.

After the plants arrive, the group hopes to host a volunteer planting day at Veteran’s Park to install the plants following a plan developed by the Manatee County Master Gardener group.

Once established, the committee hopes the garden will help the local butterfly population flourish.

MARCH 9, 2022

Cindy Jones-Burke ke Realtor/Staging Certified Residential Specialistt

Cindy@CJonesRE.com m Direct: 941.773.9770

310 Pine Avenue • Anna Maria, FL 34216

teamduncan.com

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MARCH 9, 2022

THE SUN

31

RECORD: World record seeker stops at Island FROM PAGE 1

He is celebrating the fifth centennial of the first circumnavigation of the Earth by Juan Sebastian Elcano in 1522, initiated in 1519 by Spanish explorer Ferdinand Magellan, and promoted by King Charles I of Spain. The next destination on the route is Pensacola, the first European settlement in the U.S. founded in 1559

by Tristán de Luna, predating the Florida east coast settlement of St. Augustine by six years.

De Marichalar says he is a direct descendant of de Luna and an honorary citizen of Pensacola for that reason, and is excited to make a stop in a city so important to his family heritage.

“I really wanted to replicate the original journey. I left Seville, Spain on Aug. 10, 2019 on the same day and the same hour of that historic date and time 500 years earlier,” he said. “If you don’t take risks, there is no progress. To discover is to learn, taking risks is the only way to advance knowledge. They knew this 500 years ago, and it’s the same today.”

Risk rings true on this journey.

The only time a chase boat assisted was during the long crossing of the Atlantic Ocean. Other than that, he has had to rely on the

generosity of others to find places to sleep, eat and shelter from what at times is almost unsurvivable weather conditions. His small Sea Doo watercraft can only go 200 miles on a tank of fuel, so he must not only carry extra fuel, which takes the place of food and water storage, but other things, such as clothing.

“Sometimes I have to go a day or more without food. I find a remote place to sleep and there isn’t always a place to get food or fuel; I just have to take what I can get,” he said. “I get some water and food when I find a place to get fuel. There just isn’t any room on my tiny vessel for much.”

Many have asked why he would attempt something so dangerous.

“It’s my hobby, my passion and my favorite way to navigate,” de Marichalar said. “With a craft this small, you’re not on the boat, you are the boat. I have to always be on my feet, I can’t sit down because it would destroy my spine.

Also, if I sit, my skin will tear off after a couple of days.”

The pandemic has delayed his progress, and during the downtime he has given more than 100 conferences around the world promoting the fifth centennial of the first tour of the world. He

SUBMITTED

The route Álvaro de Marichalar Sáenz de Tejada is taking on his Sea Doo watercraft. has spoken at universities, yacht clubs and schools in the U.S., Cuba, Haiti, Dominican Republic, Puerto Rico, Virgin Islands, Saint Barthélemy, Guadeloupe, Spain, Portugal, France, Monaco, Italy, Germany, Russia, Switzerland, Austria, England and Greece. In his lectures, de Marichalar always displays together the flags of Spain and Portugal next to that of the Fifth Centenary, and also shows the flag of Monaco.

He is an Academic of the Royal

COTTAGE: Historic Island cottage saved FROM PAGE 1

to climb stairs or use elevators and “dwarf the houses” elsewhere in the neighborhood and on the Island in general, said Helen Morris, who restored the cottage with her husband, David Morris. The couple does similar home restorations in Swansea, Wales, in the U.K. for university students to share.

“We feel the Island’s charm is being spoiled,” she said, adding that visitors who come to AMI for that charm are disappointed. “We haven’t spoiled the charm.”

The two-bedroom house was enlarged by connecting the former guest house on the property, which added two more bedrooms. The galley kitchen was refreshed with new countertops, and a dining table that came with the house was saved. Some of the knickknacks that were in the house when the couple bought it are displayed in original built-in shelves going to the second floor.

“You can still have a beautiful house by renovating,” she said.

CINDY LANE | SUN

David and Helen Morris have renovated the 1927 Sea Grape Cottage in Bradenton Beach.

The couple learned about Anna Maria Island from a friend in Orlando, who recommended they come to try the seafood. They liked it, and bought a vacation rental, later deciding they wanted to restore an “old Florida” house with a porch as their next vacation rental.

When it was done, “Someone came by and said, ‘thank you,’ ” David Morris said.

Academy of the Sea, as well as a member of the Explorers Club of New York and the Exploration Club of the Yacht Club of Monaco.

After Pensacola, de Marichalar plans to work his way to Galveston, Texas, then to the Panama Canal, which is 3,700 nautical miles from his post-pandemic start in Miami on Feb. 19. The route will follow the U.S., Mexican and Central American coastlines.

He will then turn north and follow the west coast of the U.S., then

make his way to Alaska and the rest of the world. This journey is not a direct route. Due to the size of his tiny craft, Álvaro can’t leave the coast unless there is no other option.

This journey is expected to last until late 2023 if everything goes as planned. To follow Álvaro’s progress and learn more about the undertaking that brought the explorer to Anna Maria Island, visit www.firstworldtour.com.

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SPORTS

MARCH 9, 2022

TBT reaches adult flag football semifinals

BY MONICA SIMPSON SPECIAL TO THE SUN

ANNA MARIA – The first game of the adult co-ed flag football playoff season started off with a close one between the TBT and Shady Lady squads. In the end, after two halves of play, quarterback Matthew Briley and the TBT team moved on to the semifinals after the win against Shady Lady last Thursday night 26-20.

Despite the three passing touchdowns by QB Connor Haughey, Shady Lady could not find the end zone for the tying score. Haughey found Jonathon Soultatos, who had a total of six catches in the game, for two scoring plays.

In addition to his 12 points, Soultatos made two critical point-after attempts, keeping Shady Lady in the mix the entire game.

Shady Lady teammate and youngster Shawn Balvin, graduating to the adult league after a long stint lighting up the gridiron in the youth leagues at The Center, had his own touchdown to go with six receptions in the game.

While on defense, Balvin stymied the TBT offense with two interceptions.

Jasmin Muldoon and Limarcus Waller made important offensive contributions for Shady Lady with catches from Haughey, keeping the team on the field with positive yardage.

In the 26-20 win, Briley’s scoring targets were Nick Cinelli, Yandy Rocamora and Jeremy Rodriguez, with touchdown catches for each of them.

Cinelli and Rodriguez added two additional points to the scoreboard with extra point conversions. On offense for TBT, Javier Rivera had solid hands with three positive-yard catches from Briley.

The defensive game of TBT may have made the difference in the playoff game. Rocamora’s sack on Haughey produced negative yardage and forced the Shady Lady offense to switch to quick and option plays.

Cinelli’s interception on a Haughey throw diminished any positive momentum Shady Lady was trying to build.

With the win, TBT returns to play another day in the semifinals. Also moving on to the next round of the playoff is WTBL, Solid Rock Construction and Moss Builders. The four-team showdown leads to the final game of the season when another squad can be called champions.

MONICA SIMPSON | SUN

Above, Yandy Rocamora pressures Shady Lady’s QB Connor Haughey and forces him to throw on the run at The Center last Thursday night. Left, on defense for TBT, Jeremy Rodriguez and Matthew Briley try to stop Shady Lady’s Jonathon Soultatos in the first quarterfinal game in adult flag football action.

The adult flag football championship game will be played on Thursday, March 17 at 7:30 p.m.

In other adult co-ed sports action, semifinal action for adult indoor soccer is slated for March 17 at 6:30 and 7:30 p.m. in The Center gymnasium, with the championship scheduled immediately after at 9 p.m.

Solid Rock Construction Bradenton Beach Parasailing

33 14

WTBL Cortez Deep Sea Fishing

42 25

Shady Lady Prosper Bradenton

14 19

Solid Rock Construction Sandbar

48 13

Miz & Hiz Biz Nissan of Bradenton

13 26

Prosper Bradenton Moss Builders

13 19

SUN SCOREBOARD TUESDAY, MARCH 1 YOUTH FLAG FOOTBALL – QUARTER FINAL PLAYOFF GAMES 8- TO 10-YEAR-OLD LEAGUE

Moss Builders Wash Family Construction

28 0

HSH Investigative Lawyers Group

22 0

Progressive Cabinetry Beach Bums

14 27

Mac Parkman Foundation Moss Builders

0 31

11- TO 13-YEAR-OLD LEAGUE

THURSDAY, MARCH 3 ADULT CO-ED FLAG FOOTBALL – QUARTER FINAL PLAYOFF GAMES TBT Shady Lady

26 20

ADULT CO-ED INDOOR SOCCER – WEEK 5

Sato Real Estate (4-0-1) Win by forfeit Progressive Cabinetry (2-3-0) Mi-Box (3-2-0) Slim’s Place (0-5-0)

Win by forfeit

Beach Bums (4-1-0) 15 Gulfview Windows & Doors (1-3-1) 6

MARCH 9, 2022

FUN IN THE SUN

Across 1 Followed 10 Charlie Parker genre 15 Carpenter's accessory 16 Not in the dark 17 "Perhaps" 18 Convene again 19 Wild 20 More than a little 21 Language class subject 22 Changed by time 24 Took in slowly 26 Volatile letters 27 Sports artist Neiman 29 Comics socks 30 Start to fill?

31 Green 33 Diner's grazing spot 35 Checked out 39 Bass product 40 Southwestern state symbol Answers to 03-02-22 Crossword Puzzle.

42 It sells in advertising 43 11-time Gold Glovewinning shortstop Vizquel 44 Bring (out) 46 Instrument with an end pin 50 Noir sleuth 51 Frequent fliers 53 Be overly sweet 54 Did some course work 56 Release 58 Shuttle __ 59 Douze mois 60 Now 62 What a hitchhiker aspires to be 63 Enclosure for dangerous underwater cinematography 64 Clothes closers 65 One who won't give

Down 1 __ shelter 2 Crash or crush 3 Get in the way of 4 "Don't Bring Me Down" gp.

5 "Aw, nuts!"

6 Japanese electronics giant 7 Devise 8 Capa wavers 9 Gender-neutral pronoun 10 Revealed 11 Bremner of "Black Hawk Down" 12 Low-pitched wind 13 Avenue after Reading Railroad 14 Seller of Lab supplies 21 Model 3 autos 23 "Conspiracy Theory" director Richard 25 Trade 28 Aches 30 Commercial bigwig 32 Soaked 34 Co-star of Meryl in "It's Complicated" 35 Toys that run on tracks 36 "Door's open" 37 Amazon predator 38 Projectile with a flight 41 Nile home of a historic stone

45 State of mind 47 New England retailer since 1912 48 Room for leisure activity

THE SUN

49 Bed occupant 51 Shows disapproval, in a way 52 Ready to pack it in 55 Stay fresh

57 Snitch 60 Shade of gray 61 It may be natural: Abbr.

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THE SUN

CLASSIFIED

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

AUTOMOTIVE/ GOLF CART FOR SALE GOLF CART for Sale Candy apple red, Club Car. Very little use. $5,795. Call 941705-0514

BOATS, WATER CRAFT LOOKING TO RENT BOAT LIFT in either Holmes Beach or Anna Maria to store a 24’ Center Console Tower boat. Direct access to Bimini Bay or Tampa Bay with no bridges to navigate under is a must.

Would consider a wet slip, but would prefer “out of water” storage on a lift.

A canal home that has an unused lift would be ideal.

Please contact Greg 434882-2112

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 THC CLEANING : Residential, Commercial, Rentals, VRBO. Professional and Reliable. Call 941-756-4570 or 941565-3931

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

Call us today! 941-778-3986

GARAGE, MOVING, RUMMAGE & YARD SALES GULFSHORE'S SPRING MARKETPLACE Crafts, Baked Goods, Plants Saturday March 12, 9-1:00 3710 Gulf of Mexico Drive, Longboat Key Clubhouse by pool

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.

HOME IMPROVEMENT Michigan General Contractor 30+ yrs. experience. Large or small projects. Budget minded knowledgeable tradesman will complete your project start to finish: On Time/On Budget. Call Mike 616-204-8822.

HOME SERVICES

Decluttering and Organizing for your home or office. Packing/Unpacking & room revitalization to create comfortable and enjoyable environments.

765-404-6608 Free Estimates!

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: driveways, walkways, fences, pool decks/ cages. Call Bill Witaszek 941-307-9315.

SEARAY SPRINKLER SERVICES. Repairs, Additions, Drip, Timer Head Adjustments. Call Rick today Cell 720-299-1661 Office 941-920-0775 SHELL DRIVEWAYS & LANDSCAPE. Specializing in Old Florida Seashell driveways and scapes. Also Rock, Mulch, & Soil. Free estimates. Call Shark Mark 941-301-6067

LOST & FOUND FOUND REMOTE DOG control device “DogTra” black unit between small dog park and Pickle ball court Holmes Beach. Call Brian 734-464-6978 LOST PRESCRIPTION SUNGLASSES in black case between Gulf Watch and Beach House Restaurant.

Please call 847-563-8365.

FOUND PACKAGE WITH CAMERA EQUIPMENT including SD cards, Cannon Lenses. Found near 1101 Gulf Dr N Queen’s Gate Resort Call 941-320-2697 FOUND MAN’S WEDDING RING. In Wal-Mart parking lot on Cortez. Call 518822-7315

MOVING & STORAGE 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.

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

AMISUN.COM

MARCH 9, 2022

PAINTING & WALLCOVERING

REAL ESTATE HOMES & CONDOS FOR SALE

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

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

“WIZARD OF WALLS” Established 1980 Prompt quality service.

Paperhanging/removal Faux finishes. Interior painting. Mary Bell Winegarden 941-794-0455

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

PROFESSIONAL PAINTING SERVICES. Prompt & Reliable. Island Resident.

Quality Workmanship.

Interior/Exterior. Also minor repairs & carpentry. Free written detailed estimates. Bill Witaszek 941-307-9315 DONALD PERKINS PAINTING LLC fully insured. 30 years experience. Many Island references. Call 941-7057096

POOL SERVICES FOUR SEASONS POOL SERVICE AND CHEMICAL SERVICES. Certified Pool Operator. 10 + Years Experience.

Residential/commercial. Chemical Service Licensed & Insured. Call Dennis Clark 941-7375657 COLE'S TROPICAL POOL SERVICE Call Cole Bowers for all your pool maintenance needs! Affordable and Dependable!! 941-7131893

PRESSURE WASHING & WINDOWS AUTHORITY ONE CLEANING : Residential, Commercial, Construction, Vacation, VRBO Rentals . Also available Pressure Washing, Roof Cleaning, Paver Sealing and Windows. Call 941565-3931.

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

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

104 29th STREET UNIT #3 Holmes Beach Fl 34217.

Steps to the beach, Peak a boo views from the unit of the GULF 2 BA/1.5BA. Upstairs unit. Weekly rental great income potential. $950,000 Sharon Hightower RE/MAX Alliance Group 941-3305054

RENTALS: ANNUAL ANNUAL RENTALS WANTED! We have well qualified tenants for beach and mainland annual rentals, Full management or Finders fee.

Call today for details.

Ask for Paige DUNCAN REAL ESTATE 513-3821992.

RENTALS: SEASONAL & VACATION

ANNA MARIA ISLAND CONDOS Large pool, beach access, free WiFi, 1&2 Bedroom $700/$800/$900 a wk. redekercondosonami. com Tim 941-704-7525 PERICO BAY CLUB rental.

3BR/2BA Available April through October. Call Dave 856-495-7200 SUMMER AT THE BEACH Anna Maria Island.

Updated 5 star Condo.

Available May to November (monthly with multiple month discount) Million $ water view. First floor 2BR/2BA beautiful water view deck, walk to beach, pool, tennis. Smoke free.

Boat dock available. Email NOW rentamiwaterview@ aol.com

TRANSPORTATION AMI TAXI metered-on-callcards accepted. Airport: Tampa $95, Sarasota $50, Clearwater $85, Orlando $195. Call 941-447-8372 or 941-447-8376. amitaxi4u@ gmail.com, www.amitaxi. com ANYTIME TRANSPORTATION to all Airports, Casino, etc. Tampa/St. Pete $80.

Sarasota $40. Pets welcome. Very dependable.

Reasonable rates. Contact Jeanne. 941-779-5095 AIRPORT RIDES- Tampa, St. Pete, Sarasota. Reasonable rates! Call or text Anna 941-932-1600

FREE

HOME DELIVERY

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

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MARCH 9, 2022

BUSINESS & SERVICE DIRECTORY HOME IMPROVEMENT

HOME IMPROVEMENT

THE SUN

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

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PAINTING

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MARCH 9, 2022

the Team Duncan Difference!

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