- Named Best Florida Newspaper In Its Class -
VOL 21 No. 22
March 10, 2021
Here’s where to get vaccines in Manatee County While appointments for COVID-19 vaccines might still be the hottest tickets in the county, they are now a bit easier to get. BY KRISTIN SWAIN SUN STAFF WRITER | kswain@amisun.com
MANATEE COUNTY – After weeks of waiting, seniors and others qualified to receive a COVID-19 vaccine are finally about to see some relief as more shots make their way to the county. The county-run vaccination site at Tom Bennett Park, 280 Kay Road, Bradenton, has 5,100 first doses for seniors this week, according to Manatee County Public Safety Director Jacob Saur. With 4,500 more doses arriving at a new state-run vaccination site at the county’s Public Safety Center, a total of 9,600 first-dose vaccine appointments for seniors are scheduled. With both vaccination sites running, Saur says he hopes to reduce the county’s vaccine standby pool from 90,000 to near zero by the end of March. JOE HENDRICKS | SUN
The City Pier marine educational outreach center would be located inside this vacant pier building.
SEE VACCINE, PAGE 27
Mote Marine, City Pier discussions continue
Foul play not suspected in drowning The body of a woman was found on the beach but investigators don’t suspect foul play.
The discussions continue regarding a proposed Mote Marine educational outreach center on the City Pier.
BY KRISTIN SWAIN SUN STAFF WRITER | kswain@amisun.com
BY JOE HENDRICKS SUN CORRESPONDENT | jhendricks@amisun.com
ANNA MARIA – The city’s pursuit of a proposed Mote Marine educational outreach center on the City Pier remains on track. Mayor Dan Murphy met with Mote Marine President and CEO Dr. Michael Crosby and additional Mote staff members on Wednesday, March 3. Topics discussed during that preliminary fact-finding meeting included financial and operational responsibilities and the potential lease terms for Mote Marine’s proposed use of the vacant, city-owned pier building next to the City Pier Grill & Bait Shop. “We are on track,” Murphy said. “We met and exchanged our thoughts. I’m going to draft up a contract/lease next week and then have another fact-finding meeting as soon I can. I hope to have a
INSIDE NEWS LETTERS OUTDOORS RESTAURANTS CASTLES IN THE SAND REAL ESTATE SPORTS CLASSIFIEDS
4 6 18-19 21 22 22-26 28 30
MOTE MARINE | SUBMITTED
This rendering illustrates what the proposed City Pier marine educational outreach center would look like. detailed offer to present to the city commission by month’s end, maybe sooner.” On Feb. 25, Murphy told the city commission he spoke to Bradenton Area Convention and Visitors Bureau Director Elliott Falcione and submitted a SEE MOTE, PAGE 23
HOLMES BEACH – Police do not suspect foul play in the drowning death of a woman in Holmes Beach. Officers were called to the beach near the 35th Street beach access early on March 3 to investigate reports of a dead body. Two joggers found the woman’s body floating in the water just offshore around 6:32 a.m. and pulled her to shore, according to police reports. The deceased was later identified by Holmes Beach police officers as Tiffany Anne Williams, a 39-year-old from Bradenton. Williams was pronounced dead at the scene and officers said there were no signs of foul play. Once the news of Williams’s death broke online, friends and family took to social media to express their sadness and disbelief at the woman’s passing. SEE DROWNING, PAGE 25
A FLAVORFUL
CITY asked to join lawsuit opposing
dessert for a sweet finishing touch. Food & Wine. 20
new 65-foot Cortez Bridge. 13
Anna Maria Island, Florida
FINAL REPORT released in
Bradenton Beach murder-suicide. 3
The Island’s award-winning weekly newspaper www.amisun.com
2
www.amisun.com
THE SUN
FRESH AIR because
WE CARE Before we reopened The Waterfront for indoor seating, we installed the Fresh-Aire UV disinfection system to help protect our customers and staff. Our outdoor dining makes up two thirds of our restaurant seating. All seating is spaced 6 feet apart.
941.778.1515 | 111 SOUTH BAY BLVD | ANNA MARIA ISLAND, FL WWW.THEWATERFRONTRESTAURANT.NET
MARCH 10, 2021
www.amisun.com
MARCH 10, 2021
THE SUN
3
Final report released for murder-suicide The couple had previously been involved in a domestic incident that involved a death threat. BY JOE HENDRICKS SUN CORRESPONDENT | jhendricks@amisun.com
BRADENTON BEACH – The Bradenton Beach Police Department has released the final findings on the murder-suicide that occurred in October, determining that the death was, in fact, a homicide. The murder-suicide was discovered on Saturday, Oct. 17, in the upper level of a triplex at 2514 Ave. C in Bradenton Beach. Det. Sgt. Lenard Diaz released the findings on Friday. According to the 17-page report, the medical examiner’s autopsy determined 37-year-old Sabrina Dumdei’s cause of death was “incised wounds of the neck” and her manner of death was “Homicide – Cut by other person with box cutter.” The medical examiner’s findings note Dumdei’s fatal injuries included stab wounds and incised wounds to the head, neck, throat, torso, cervical vertebrae, extremities and muscles, and abrasions and contusions of the skin.
JOE HENDRICKS | SUN
Members of the Manatee County Sheriff's Office Crime Scene Unit assisted with the investigation. “The toxicology reports stated that Dumdei was positive for Ethanol in blood 0.32 G/DL (blood alcohol concentration) and urine 0.37 G/DL,” according to Diaz’s summary report of the medical examiner’s findings. According to the report, the cause of death for Zachary Winton, 34, was “incised wounds of the neck and upper
extremity” and the manner of death was “Suicide – Cut self with box cutter.” The medical examiner determined Winton had incised wounds of the neck and upper extremity, superficial incised wounds of the torso, blunt impact injuries that included subgaleal hemorrhage and also abrasions and lacerations of the skin.
“The toxicology report stated that Winton was positive for Ethanol in blood 0.24 G/DL (blood alcohol concentration) and urine 0.31 G/DL,” according to Diaz’s report. The summary of the medical examiner’s findings states that Bradenton Beach police had previously responded to domestic incidents involving Dumdei and Winton at that address. “It was a known fact that Dumdei and Winton had been arguing with each other the whole week leading up to their deaths,” Diaz stated in his final report. “During this investigation, several interviews were conducted, evidence was collected, crime scene techs responded and processed the scene along with medical examiner investigators and the medical examiner herself. I also invited the Manatee County Sheriff’s Office Homicide Task Force, which I am a part of, to come to the scene for an extra set of eyes a few days after,” Diaz stated in his report. “At this time, this case is closed as a murder-suicide. If any further information arises, a supplement will be done to this case,” Diaz’s report says in closing. SEE MURDER-SUICIDE, PAGE 16
4
THE SUN
ISLAND NEWS
IN BRIEF
Springfest returns to Holmes Beach After taking a year off due to COVID-19, the annual Springfest Festival of Fine Arts and Crafts returns for its 33rd year on March 13 and 14. This year’s festival features the work of SUBMITTED | AMI ART LEAGUE professional artists The crowds at Springfest will look and craftspeople a little different this year with all from around the attendees required to wear masks county along with and social distance. a live music stage featuring Koko Ray’s Uptown 4. A highlight of the two-day art festival will be a raffle of artwork donated by one of the festival’s exhibitors. Raffle tickets will be available onsite for $1 each or six for $5 and the winner will be required to be present to win. All proceeds from the raffle benefit the Art League’s scholarship fund to provide classes to children and adult students. The festivities take place from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. each day on the grass at Holmes Beach city field, 5901 Marina Drive. All attendees are required to wear a mask and social distance. Volunteers also are needed for both days of the festival. To volunteer, contact the AMI Art League at 941-778-2099 or email artleagueami@gmail.com.
Spring forward March 14 Don’t forget to reset your clocks and spring forward this coming weekend. Daylight saving time starts at 2 a.m. on Sunday, March 14.
Clarification A reader-submitted photo in the Feb. 3 edition of The Sun depicted hoverboarders riding their “Onewheels” completely legally on the beach at Bean Point. There were no city ordinances restricting hoverboarding at Bean Point at the time of the photo.
Holmes Beach city meetings continue despite COVID scare Holmes Beach city leaders and staff found themselves with a problem when several people at city hall were exposed to COVID-19 on Feb. 23. What started as one staff member testing positive turned into nearly a dozen, including some staff family members over the first week in March. However, Mayor Judy Titsworth said the city’s scheduled meetings, a March 9 commission meeting and work session, a March 10 parks and beautification committee meeting, and a March 10 planning commission meeting, will all go on as scheduled. Holmes Beach City Hall will be open to the public for the meetings and members of the public also can join in online through Zoom. For Zoom instructions, visit www.holmesbeachfl. org. Outside of meeting times, city hall continues to be open to the public by appointment only.
Visit our website, www.amisun.com. Scan this code with your smartphone to go there.
MARCH 10, 2021
Kruse no longer pursuing a county charter
City officials in all three Island cities opposed the pursuit of a county charter. BY JOE HENDRICKS SUN CORRESPONDENT | jhendricks@amisun.com
ANNA MARIA – Manatee County Commissioner George Kruse is no longer pursuing a county charter. Kruse made the decision after attending a City Commission work session Monday, March 1 in Anna Maria. During that meeting, attorney Wade Vose discussed the perils that a county charter would pose to the city of Anna Maria and the other five chartered cities in Manatee County. Bradenton Beach Mayor John Chappie and Holmes Beach commissioners Jayne Christenson, Jim Kihm and Carol Soustek also participated in the work session via Zoom teleconference. League of Women Voters of Manatee County (LWV) President Alice Newlon viewed the work session remotely but did not speak. The following day, however, the League withdrew its previous support for a county charter in a written statement that featured the headline, “Under current state regulations, The League of Women Voters of Manatee County finds charter government for Manatee holds too much risk.” Kruse informed Anna Maria Mayor Dan Murphy on Wednesday that he was “standing down” on his pursuit of a county charter. Kruse shared that news with the Manatee County Commission the next day. “While I still firmly believe a charter is a viable option for Manatee County to give more of a voice to the citizens, I was surprised at the 50% plus 1 threshold requirement,” Kruse said in an email to Murphy. “I can see how this absurdly low bar for change is, or at least could be, problematic in the future due to the significant population disparity of municipal vs. unincorporated residents. I’m standing down on my charter discussions for Manatee County until we can more comfortably ensure, through legislation, that the municipalities are adequately and permanently protected via verbiage and vote thresholds currently unavailable in Florida.” In response, Murphy sent Kruse an email that said, “Thank you for being
JOE HENDRICKS | SUN
County Commissioner George Kruse is “standing down” on his pursuit of a county charter. During last week’s work session, Attorney Wade Vose discussed the potential impacts a county charter could have on the three Island cities and beyond. sensitive toward those of us in the less populated areas of the county. Your candor in this matter is refreshing and appreciated as well.” During Thursday’s County Commission land use meeting, Kruse told the commission he was ending his pursuit of a county charter. “Until I can figure out how to work with the legislature in Florida and get that threshold moved up, I’m standing down on that charter for the time being. I don’t think it’s fair to the cities,” he said.
COUNTY CHARTER
The Anna Maria work session was scheduled in response to a Feb. 2 Council of Governments meeting at which Kruse discussed pursuing a county charter. The work session was also scheduled as a follow-up to previous Anna Maria commission discussions, during which the mayor and all five commissioners expressed opposition to a county charter. As a noncharter county, the Manatee County government is structured and operated according to state statutes. Under this structure, county laws, codes and regulations that pertain primarily to the county’s unincorporated areas do not preempt or supersede local laws, codes and regulations adopted by the six chartered cities within the county. During the Council of Governments meeting, chaired by Murphy, Kruse said the adoption of a county charter would allow county voters to impose county commission term limits, removal from office procedures, campaign finance restrictions and more. During that meeting, city officials from Bradenton Beach, Holmes Beach, Longboat Key, Bradenton and
Palmetto expressed their opposition to the proposed pursuit of a county charter. The main concern expressed that day was the potential for a county charter to be written, then later amended, in a manner that would allow county laws, codes and regulations to preempt city laws, codes and regulations – including the building height restrictions in all three Anna Maria Island cities. Kruse responded that day by saying a “starter charter” could include a provision saying city ordinances, codes and regulations preempt those adopted by the county. Kruse claimed a starter charter could include a provision requiring at least a 60% voter support threshold to later amend an adopted charter. The consensus of the attending city officials that day was that the county should include an opt-out clause for the cities if the county commission wished to pursue a county charter on its own.
CITY WORK SESSION
Vose is a managing partner for the Orlando-based, family-owned Vose Law Firm that serves as the city attorney’s office for the city of Anna Maria. The firm also represents seven other cities and one county in Florida. Vose is considered to be an expert on city and county charters because he has represented several charter review commissions throughout the state. He also represents Alachua County, which is a charter county. Vose, also using Zoom teleconferencing, detailed the potential threats a county charter would pose to Anna Maria’s home rule rights, and the home rule rights of Bradenton, SEE JUMP, PAGE 5
MARCH 10, 2021
www.amisun.com
THE SUN
5
CHARTER: Kruse no longer pursuing a county charter FROM PAGE 4
denton Beach, Holmes Beach, Palmetto and the northern portion of Longboat Key. The lawyer made it clear that a county charter would potentially allow the county to preempt city laws, codes and regulations, including those pertaining to land use, development and beaches. “Charter counties and county charters themselves have the ability to preempt whole fields of regulatory authority and have the county exclusively regulate in those areas,” Vose said. He said a county charter could provide the county with the authority to decide whether a property on Anna Maria Island could be used to build a small home or a 200-foot-tall resort. Several of the 20 charter counties in Florida, Vose said, have already leveraged the land use regulatory authority provided by their county charters. Those counties are Alachua, Broward, Charlotte, Hillsborough, Miami-Dade, Palm Beach, Sarasota, Seminole and Volusia. “I don’t mean this as I’m personally against charter counties. I represent charter counties, but I want my city that I represent, the city of Anna Maria, and folks in Manatee County to understand how incredibly powerful county charters can be, and the authority that can very easily be taken away
with a county charter. This could, if implemented in the county charter, preempt land use regulatory authority solely to the board of county commissioners,” Vose said. Charter counties can also regulate the use of beaches, he said. The Volusia County Commission implemented a unified beach code preempting all local authority and regulation of those beaches, including those in the city of Daytona Beach, Vose said. He also noted that Bradenton, Bradenton Beach and Palmetto have city-controlled Community Redevelopment Agencies that would automatically become countycontrolled with the adoption of a county charter. Vose dispelled the notion that a 60% voter approval threshold provision could be included in a Manatee County charter. He said that provision would violate the Florida Constitution, even though the state constitution requires a 60% threshold to adopt statewide constitutional amendments. “Unfortunately, the Florida Constitution very clearly specifies that a county charter can only be amended by a vote of the electors, which it defines as being 50% plus 1 of those voters voting in that election,” Vose said. “There is one county in Florida – Polk County – that has it in their charter that it’s 60%. Under the Florida Constitution and existing case law that provision is unen-
forceable, but to my knowledge, nobody has ever challenged it.” In response to a question posed by Murphy, Vose said an opt-out clause for the cities could provide some protection, but those protections could be removed by a future charter amendment. Kihm and Anna Maria Commissioner Jon Crane asked Vose what could be done to protect the cities’ existing regulatory authority. Vose replied that once a charter committee is formed by a citizens’ petition initiative or a simple majority vote of the county commission, there’s no pulling the plug on that process. At that point, a charter will be drafted and placed on a ballot. Vose said the key would be to convince the county commission to not go down that road to begin with. “This could be really devasting to the Island,” Commissioner Christensen said. “We need to make sure that (County Commission) District 3 clearly understands the damage that could be done to the characters of all of our communities of west Manatee,” Chappie said. Anna Maria Commission Chair Carol Carter described the potential impact of a county charter as “quite frightening.” Kruse did not speak during the work session.
Spring FORWARD and enjoy an extra hour of Florida sunshine!
LWV STATEMENT
The LWV statement issued on Tuesday, March 2, addressed the 50% + 1 person approval threshold and said, “This makes changes to a charter fairly easy to pass. Even if a provision is put in the charter prohibiting the county from overriding city ordinances, the cities will not want, nor should they, to take any chance that at some future election that provision would be eliminated.” The League’s statement provided the hypothetical example of a developer wanting to build a large resort hotel in Anna Maria. “They could do massive advertising and give large infusions of money to commissioners’ campaigns. With only 50% plus 1 needed to pass, they could use their influence to get this provision voted out of the charter. Then the (county) commission could allow the resort hotel on the grounds that we should allow people to do what they want with their property and it will bring jobs,” the statement said. “As much as the League supports charter government for Manatee County for all the flexibility and citizen input it allows until the State of Florida allows charters to have a higher threshold for changes to the charter the risks of manipulation and undue influence are too high,” the LWV statement concluded.
CHANGE YOUR CLOCKS ON SATURDAY BEFORE YOU GO TO BED!
941-218-2816
6
THE SUN
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
Like us on our Facebook page at www.facebook.com/AnnaMariaIslandSun
MARCH 10, 2021
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 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 John Reitz Distribution Bob Alexander Tony McNulty Connor Field Contributors Tom Vaught Steve Borggren Monica Simpson
LETTERS TO THE EDITOR
Thanks, everyone The Friends of the Island Library Board of Directors wanted to send our thanks to all of our friends who continue to support the public library on the Island through generous contributions, visiting in person and virtually. Throughout the past year, the Friends had no choice but to cancel many of our usual in-person activities such as the lecture and
travel series, book sale, volunteer brunch and our membership drive. We are astonished by our community and generous support for the library! We are overwhelmed and grateful. Thank you! We also want to send a shout-out to the wonderful staff that didn’t miss a beat, keeping social distancing in place, but allowing patrons to continue to access our libraries. Public libraries are vital to communities in Manatee County,
Florida and throughout the U.S. What happens is beyond books; it brings us together. Every person has equal access to the essential services our public libraries provide. Please continue to support all public libraries and our gem of a library on our Island. Thank you for being a friend. Julie Perry President, Friends of the Island Library
Drop us a line Got an opinion, a complaint or a compliment? Is there something you need to get off your chest? Send us a letter to the editor and have your say. There are a couple of ways to do it. The easiest and most direct is to email The Sun at news@amisun.com. Remember to put Letter to the Editor in the subject field. Or you can snail-mail a letter to us at The Anna Maria Island Sun,
P.O. Box 1189, Anna Maria, FL 34216. Letters should be kept to 300 words or less and must contain your name and the city in which you reside. Personal attacks and obscene language will not be printed. The Sun reserves the right to edit letters for length or content.
www.amisun.com
MARCH 10, 2021
ON THE AGENDA ANNA MARIA
10005 GULF DRIVE FOR INFORMATION, CALL 941-708-6130
City hall is open to the public with limited capacity and safety protocols in place. Please visit www.cityofannamaria.com or contact city hall for more information. March 11, 2 p.m. – City Commission meeting March 15, 2:30 p.m. – Planning and Zoning board meeting March 23, 10 a.m. – Historic Preservation board meeting March 25, 6 p.m. – City Commission meeting
BRADENTON BEACH
107 GULF DRIVE N. FOR INFORMATION, CALL 941-778-1005
City hall is open to the public with limited capacity and safety protocols in place. Please visit www.cityofbradentonbeach.com or contact city hall for more information. March 10, 9:15 a.m. – City Commission emergency meeting March 11, 10 a.m. – Department Head work meeting March 18, noon – City Commission meeting
HOLMES BEACH
5801 MARINA DRIVE FOR INFORMATION, CALL 941-708-5800
City hall is open to the public by appointment only. Please visit www.holmesbeachfl. org or contact city hall for more information. March 10, 10 a.m. – Parks and Beautification
Committee meeting March 10, 6 p.m. – Planning Commission meeting March 17, 10 a.m. – Code Compliance special magistrate hearing March 23, 6 p.m. – City Commission meeting with work session to follow March 16, 6 p.m. – West Manatee Fire Rescue board meeting, administration office and on Zoom, 6510 Third Ave. W., Bradenton. Zoom information at www.wmfr.org. MARKYOUR CALENDAR The Island Branch Library is open at 40% capacity. Please wear a face mask/covering. The Tingley Memorial Library is open. The Center of Anna Maria Island is open with social distancing and face masks required. The Holmes Beach dog park (Scentral Park), skate park, basketball courts, pickleball courts and tennis courts are open. Local preserves are open, including Grassy Point Preserve, Neal Preserve, Perico Preserve and Robinson Preserve. Local beaches are open.
TUESDAY MARCH 9
Farmer’s Market, City Pier Park, 101 N. Bay Blvd., Anna Maria, 8:30 a.m. to 2 p.m. Movie in the Park, “Trolls World Tour," City Pier Park, 101 N. Bay Blvd., Anna Maria, 6:30 p.m.
7
WEDNESDAY
SUNDAY
Beach market, Coquina Beach, 2650 Gulf Drive S., Bradenton Beach, 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.
Beach market, Coquina Beach, 2650 Gulf Drive S., Bradenton Beach, 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. SpringFest Fine Arts and Crafts Festival benefitting the Anna Maria Island Art League, city field, 5801 Marina Drive, 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Rise and Shine Power Flow Yoga, Robinson Preserve Mosaic Nest, 840 Ninth Ave. N.W., Bradenton 10:30 a.m. to 11:45 a.m., $10 fee payable online. Bring your own yoga mat. Register at https://parks.mymanatee.org/wbwsc/webtrac.wsc/search. html?primarycode=110006 or call 941-7425923 ext. 6042 for more information.
MARCH 10
THURSDAY MARCH 11
ISLAND-WIDE
THE SUN
Farmer’s Market, Holmes Beach city field, 5801 Marina Drive, Holmes Beach, 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Thursdays in Paradise Stroll featuring local art, music and food, Bridge Street, Bradenton Beach, 5 to 8 p.m.
SATURDAY
MARCH 14
MARCH 13
Robinson Runners, Robinson Preserve, 840 Ninth Ave. N.W., Bradenton, 8-9 a.m. No reservations required. Saturday mornings at the NEST, Robinson Preserve Mosaic Nest, 840 Ninth Ave. N.W., Bradenton, 9 a.m. to noon. Face masks required. Tour the Cortez Cultural Center, Boatworks and Cortez Treasure Sale featuring local artwork, baked goods and books from Cortez authors, 11655 Cortez Road W., Cortez, 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. Social distancing and face coverings required. SpringFest Fine Arts and Crafts Festival benefitting the Anna Maria Island Art League, city field, 5801 Marina Drive, 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Environmental film night at the NEST, Robinson Preserve Mosaic Nest, 840 Ninth Ave. N.W., Bradenton, 7 p.m. Reserve to elena. burke@mymanatee.org or 941-742-5923 ext. 6036.
TUESDAY MARCH 16
Farmer’s Market, City Pier Park, 101 N. Bay Blvd., Anna Maria, 8:30 a.m. to 2 p.m. Roser Guild Thrift Shop yard sale, 511 Pine Ave., Anna Maria, 9 a.m. to noon. Wednesday, March 17 Beach market, Coquina Beach, 2650 Gulf Drive S., Bradenton Beach, 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Thursday, March 18 Seashell Shore Walk, Coquina Beach, 2650 Gulf Drive S., Bradenton Beach, 9 a.m. Reserve to 941-742-5923 ext. 6036 or elena. burke@mymanatee.org. Farmer’s Market, Holmes Beach city field, 5801 Marina Drive, Holmes Beach, 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Thursdays in Paradise Stroll featuring local art, music and food, Bridge Street, Bradenton Beach, 5 to 8 p.m.
8
www.amisun.com
THE SUN
MARCH 10, 2021
Van Ostenbridge to invoke Fifth Amendment in public reCounty Commissioner Kevin Van Ostenbridge is one of three county commissioners named as co-defendants in a public records-related lawsuit. BY JOE HENDRICKS SUN CORRESPONDENT | jhendricks@amisun.com JOE HENDRICKS | SUN
MANATEE COUNTY – County Commissioner Kevin Van Ostenbridge intends to invoke his Fifth Amendment rights when deposed under oath by Michael Barfield on Friday, March 12, according to court filings. Barfield, a paralegal, is representing himself in a civil case he filed in 12th Judicial Circuit Court on Dec. 7, 2020, against Van Ostenbridge and commissioners Vanessa Baugh and James Satcher, claiming they violated Florida’s public records law. During a hearing Friday afternoon conducted via Zoom, Judge Charles Sniffen denied Van Ostenbridge’s March 1 motion for an order protecting him from being deposed. During the deposition, Van Ostenbridge will invoke his Fifth Amendment right to refuse to answer questions that could incriminate him, according to Van Ostenbridge’s attorney, Morgan Bentley. The Florida Department of Law Enforce-
County Commissioner Kevin Van Ostenbridge intends to invoke his Fifth Amendment rights when deposed under oath on Friday. Plaintiff Michael Barfield plans to depose County Commissioner Kevin Van Ostenbridge on March 12. ment (FDLE) is conducting an independent criminal investigation of the case. The Fifth Amendment to the U.S. Constitution provides, “No person shall be compelled in any criminal case to be a witness against himself.” Barfield began making public records requests of Van Ostenbridge and fellow commissioners Baugh, Satcher and George Kruse on Nov. 20. That was one day after Van Ostenbridge made a motion at a county commission meeting to put then-County Administrator Cheri Coryea on notice that her proposed termination would be discussed and decided in early December. Van Ostenbridge made that motion two days after he, Satcher and Kruse took office, and with no advance notice given to
the public or the commission as a whole. Baugh, Satcher and Kruse supported the motion, which was later rescinded at the request of Kruse, who is not named as a co-defendant in the case. Coryea and the county commission agreed to a $204,000 separation settlement on Feb. 23, which ended by mutual agreement her tenure as county administrator.
MOTION FOR PROTECTIVE ORDER ARGUED
In the motion denied by the court, Bentley wrote, “Van Ostenbridge has produced all items requested by plaintiff. Nonetheless, on Feb. 19, plaintiff filed his notice of taking deposition. Such deposition is improper in the context of the current litigation, the purpose of which was to obtain
documents. As such documents have been produced, there is no ongoing purpose and no need to take the deposition of Van Ostenbridge other than to annoy and harass. “Moreover, there exists a pending Florida Department of Law Enforcement investigation. The FDLE investigation centers on the same issues as those involved in this case. As such, during the pendency of that investigation, Van Ostenbridge will necessarily invoke his Fifth Amendment rights in response to questions related to any matters subject to the investigation,” Bentley stated in his written motion. In his response to Bentley’s motion, Barfield wrote: “Van Ostenbridge claims he has produced all records responsive to the records request but wants to avoid questions about his production by invoking his Fifth Amendment rights due to a pending criminal investigation. As set forth below, there is a factual dispute about whether Van Ostenbridge has produced all records. Moreover, a blanket assertion of Fifth Amendment rights is not permitted under Florida law. “The contention that Van Ostenbridge produced all records responsive to the records request prior to the amended complaint is disputed by the parties. As one SEE VAN OSTENBRIDGE, PAGE 12
DOCK & DINE
Cruise to the Pier by land or sea! Boat docking is NOW AVAILABLE at the Pier location! LANDSIDE
6906 14th Street West 941.758.7880
CORTEZ
6696 Cortez Road 941.792.0077
ELLENTON
1525 51st Avenue East 941.721.7773
BRIDGE ST. PIER Bradenton Beach 941.778.AMOB (2662)
MARCH 10, 2021
www.amisun.com
THE SUN
Training a new generation of environmental scientists BY KRISTIN SWAIN SUN STAFF WRITER | kswain@amisun.com
ANNA MARIA – The community scientist program at The Center of Anna Maria Island is getting off to a great start thanks to some help from students at Eckerd College and Mote Marine Laboratory and Aquarium staff. Small groups of Eckerd College students are coming each Saturday morning to The Center to train with staff from Mote on the equipment they’ll be using. Part of the training involves how to take the water samples and video needed to observe the effects of the mini reefs from Ocean Habitats installed as a part of a fundraiser for the nonprofit. These students are the first of the community volunteers being trained to study the effects of the mini reefs on the local waters and marine life. Students will travel around the Island to the mini reef sites to conduct water testing and video the condition of the reefs. This also helps keep track of all of the reefs and observe any maintenance issues requiring attention. Community scientists will test the water for the presence of harmful algae blooms such as Karenia brevis red tide, keep track of water temperature and pH levels and study the organisms making the mini reefs their home. Once the program is better established, The Center’s Director of Development, Jim McDaniel, says he hopes to open it up to Island resident volunteers and others in the community. The program is the brainchild of McDaniel, who said he hopes to expand it in the future while also providing an important resource in the fight to
KRISTIN SWAIN | SUN
Clockwise above, Aspen Cook with Mote Marine Laboratory and Aquarium gives students an overview of a HAB microscope, used to analyze water samples for traces of hazardous algae blooms, such as the one that causes red tide. A volunteer takes a reading testing water temperature and pH levels. A student from Eckerd College takes a water sample off of the dock at the Anna Maria home of Bob and Carol Carter where one of the mini reefs from Ocean Habitats is installed. Students from Eckerd College get a little equipment training from staff members at Mote Marine Laboratory and Aquarium at The Center of Anna Maria Island before heading out in the field.
mitigate the effects of red tide, which can cause fish kills, skin irritation and breathing problems. Currently, there are 166 mini reefs installed in the waters around Anna
Maria Island and west Bradenton as a result of The Center’s partnership with Ocean Habitats.
9
10
www.amisun.com
THE SUN
MARCH 10, 2021
COMMUNITY CHURCH March 14, 21, 28
Essential Truths WHY THE CROSS
EASTER SUNDAY, April 4 • Why Believe?
SUNDAY WORSHIP 8:30 AM or 10:00 AM
In the SANCTUARY and ONLINE Go to www.RoserChurch.com Click WORSHIP-SIGNUP , WATCH LIVE or WATCH LATER Text ROSER to 22828 to receive the weekly eBulletin.
The CHAPEL is open during 8:30 AM in person and online • 10:00 AM outside! Good Friday, April 2 • 7:00 PM in person and online office hours for prayer & meditation. 941-778-0414 • 512 Pine Ave, Anna Maria • FOLLOW us on Facebook @RoserChurch
SUBMITTED | AMI CHAMBER OF COMMERCE
Clegg Insurance celebrates new location The Anna Maria Island Chamber of Commerce Board of Directors and members of the Clegg Insurance team celebrated the opening of the new Clegg Insurance office at 101 S. Bay Blvd., Ste. B2, in Anna Maria with a ribbon-cutting March 5.
Anna Maria Commission to meet Thursday The Anna Maria City Commission will meet at 2 p.m. on Thursday, March 11. The meeting will begin with citizens having three minutes each to address the commission on any matter not already included on the meeting agenda. As agenda items, the commission will discuss and vote on a resolution on the city’s home rule rights and the first reading of an ordinance on the division of land. Public Works Manager Dean Jones and City Clerk LeAnne Addy will update the commission on the city’s paving and
stormwater plans and projects. Jones will talk about matters pertaining to a storage shed and concrete slab and also to a generator. Mayor Dan Murphy will provide an update on his ongoing discussions with Mote Marine on a marine educational outreach center on the City Pier. During the ongoing pandemic, city hall is open to the public but meeting attendance is limited. Thursday’s meeting can also be attended by phone by calling 1-929-205-6099 and then entering the meeting ID: 85392000280.
Micromobility moratorium extended On Thursday, March 4, the Bradenton Beach City Commission has extended a temporary moratorium on the rental of micromobility devices. The commission voted 3-2 on March 4 in favor of adopting on second reading an ordinance that continues the moratorium for an additional 90 days. The action puts a temporary hold on the rental and storage of scoot coupes, scooters, and other such devices. “The emergency moratorium suspends for 90 additional days the city’s ability to issue any authorizations, permits, or franchises for the operation of micromobility hubs that offer for a fee the use of micromobility devices that include but are not limited to mo-
torized scooters and scoot coupes,” the measure reads. “The moratorium also applies to the storage of commercially used micromobility devices.” Commissioners Jake Spooner and Ralph Cole opposed the temporary moratorium. During the first reading of the ordinance on Feb. 18, Spooner said he opposed the moratorium because it also applies to Vespa scooters and other larger scooters that he feels do not pose the same safety risks as the low-visibility, three-wheeled scoot coupes, or the smaller powered scooters that have no seats. Cole did not attend the Feb 18 meeting and during last week’s meeting, he did not explain his opposition to the moratorium.
www.amisun.com
MARCH 10, 2021
THE SUN
11
Acting county administrator position advertised Manatee County commissioners debated whether to advertise the acting county administrator’s position. BY JOE HENDRICKS SUN CORRESPONDENT | jhendricks@amisun.com
MANATEE COUNTY – Manatee County is now seeking applicants interested in serving as the acting county administrator. The county issued a press release last Friday stating the acting county administrator job would be advertised through Friday, March 12. “Manatee County Board of County Commissioners is seeking applicants for an acting county administrator to serve as the local government's chief executive for up to one year while the commission begins a nationwide search for a permanent county administrator” the press release states. “The acting administrator will be responsible for the oversight of 12 county departments which includes 1,900 employees and an annual net budget of $740 million. The position will work collaboratively and strategically with the Board of County Commissioners to carry out policies approved by the board. The board is seeking applicants who bring vast experience in the private sector, as well as senior management experience in local or regional government,” according to the press release. “Nothing will disqualify the acting administrator from applying to be the permanent administrator. The salary for the position will be negotiated with the Board of County Commissioners per Florida statutes. The position is eligible for full benefits,” the press release states.
JOE HENDRICKS | SUN
School board member Dr. Scott Hopes had repeatedly expressed interest in serving as the acting county administrator. The release also notes that the job application can be found at www.governmentjobs.com.
CORYEA SEPARATION
On Feb. 23, County Administrator Cheri Coryea and the county commission mutually agreed to a $204,000 separation agreement that ended Coryea’s time as administrator. During that same meeting, the commission voted 4-3 in opposition to former Sarasota County Commissioner Charles Hines serving as acting administrator while a search is conducted for someone to fill that role permanently. At the request of the commission, Deputy County Administrator Karen Stewart then agreed to serve as the interim acting county administrator until March. 23.
ADVERTISEMENT DEBATED
The commissioners voted 4-3 at a March 4 land use committee meeting
5346 Gulf Drive, Holmes Beach (941) 778-5788 | hurricanehanks.com
in favor of asking the county’s Human Resources Department to advertise the acting administrator position for a short period. Commissioner Reggie Bellamy was the first to suggest and request that Human Resources assist the commission with its search. Bellamy was joined by commissioners George Kruse, Misty Servia, and Carol Whitmore when voting in favor of advertising the position. Based on that vote, all candidates who wish to be considered for the acting county administrator’s job must apply to Human Resources. At the request of Commission Chair Vanessa Baugh, the commission directive she opposed requests that all applications received be provided to the commission for review, regardless of the qualifications, or lack thereof, indicated on those applications. Baugh and commissioners James
Satcher and Kevin Van Ostenbridge opposed advertising the acting county administrator’s position. They prefer instead to choose between three previously mentioned candidates – none of whom had submitted a formal application or been interviewed by the commission. Those previously mentioned candidates are school board member Dr. Scott Hopes, former Manatee County School District Superintendent Rick Mills, and Lakewood Ranch Business Alliance President and CEO Dom DiMaio. To date, Hopes is the only one of the three to appear before the commission and express interest in serving as acting county administrator. Hopes has also expressed interest in serving as the permanent county administrator. During last week’s meeting, Hopes said he would resign from the school board if selected to serve as acting county administrator. During Thursday’s meeting, Van Ostenbridge and Kruse expressed their preliminary support for Hopes. Servia said she read in the East County Observer that DiMaio stated he was not interested in the acting administrator’s job but was interested in the permanent county administrator’s job. In February it was reported that DiMaio was believed to be the preferred candidate of developer Carlos Beruff and other members of the development community in 2019 – when Coryea was promoted from her deputy county administrator’s position to the position of county administrator after County Administrator Ed Hunzeker retired. It was also noted during last week’s meeting that Mills has not been seen at a county meeting in several years and had only recently returned to the area.
Visit us for a cold one! We’ve installed 5 Fresh-Aire UV units to provide 1_;lb1-ѴŊ=u;; -bu -m7 v u=-1; 7bvbm=;1ঞomĺ
5344 Gulf Drive, Holmes Beach (941) 779-2337 | hurricaneliquorami.com
12
THE SUN
FREE BASIC INSTALL ON FANS PRICED 299 & UP
www.amisun.com
MARCH 10, 2021
VAN OSTENBRIDGE: 29 INSTALL To invoke Fifth Amendment $
OR
$
.99
.99
ON FANS PRICED $99 to $299
SOME RESTRICTIONS APPLY. BRING THIS AD INTO STORE FOR DETAILS. PRIOR SALES EXCLUDED. NOT COMBINED WITH OTHER OFFERS. DAN'S FAN CITY, LLC LIC#EC13004528
FROM PAGE 8
example, Van Ostenbridge’s response to the amended order to show cause, filed on Dec. 23 claimed ‘all items’ sought in the records request had been produced. However, as recently as Jan. 26, Van Ostenbridge produced records responsive to the request that had not previously been produced. “Two days later, Van Ostenbridge produced another version of the same record but with a different filename. An evidentiary hearing is required to resolve the dispute about whether all records have been produced. It is inconsistent for Van Ostenbridge to claim he has produced everything while seeking shelter under the Fifth Amendment to prevent any adversarial inquiry to test his claim of full compliance,” Barfield stated in his response. “The litigation is related to the commissioners’ compliance with Florida’s open-government laws, which includes the Public Records Act and the Government in the Sunshine law. The purpose of the pending litigation is to ensure that all records responsive to the initial request have been produced. I have many questions about the production of records and whether
DAN'S FAN CITY
LARGEST SELECTION OF INDOOR & OUTDOOR FANS ANYWHERE!
The contention that Van Ostenbridge produced all records responsive to the
DC FANS! Reduce Your A/C Bill
TOUCH FREE VOICE CONTROL!
records request prior to the amended complaint is disputed by the parties.” Michael Barfield, plaintiff
Select Models Now
WiFi Enabled
Parts & Services Available
DESIGN
YOUR FAN
ASK US HOW
Bradenton
Van Ostenbridge has produced all items ALSO AVAILABLE!
requested by plaintiff.”
1808 Cortez Road
Open 7 Days A Week
755-3262
Parts, Services & Installation Available
ELEVATE
3 FINISHES; LEDMorgan LIGHT & REMOTE Bentley, INCLUDED attorney
Introducing ∆8OVETM Delta-8 THC Oil Tincture, Water Soluble, & Gummies from SunMed.TM
it was a full and complete production. That is why I scheduled Kevin Van Ostenbridge’s deposition,” Barfield stated after the motion was denied. When being deposed, the subject is questioned under oath, usually in a non-courtroom setting, with a court reporter present. The court reporter then produces a verbatim transcript
that serves as sworn preliminary testimony to be provided to the judge and others before a case goes to trial. As the county’s District 3 commissioner, Van Ostenbridge represents Anna Maria, Bradenton Beach, Holmes Beach, Cortez, the northern portion of Longboat Key and portions of Bradenton.
$10 OFF Your First ∆8OVE Purchase.
Bradenton 2723 Manatee Ave W (941) 226-1230
‛S YOUR COMFORT ZONE? WHERE
CINDY LANE | SUN
Abstract sand High winds on Anna Maria Island recently transformed sand mined from the Gulf of Mexico and deposited on the beach during last year’s renourishment project into abstract art.
www.amisun.com
MARCH 10, 2021
THE SUN
13
Cortez Bridge opponents ask city to join federal lawsuit A 2020 lawsuit filed by four bridge opponents is still making its way through federal court. BY JOE HENDRICKS SUN CORRESPONDENT | jhendricks@amisun.com
BRADENTON BEACH – The plaintiffs in a federal lawsuit opposing the replacement of the existing Cortez Bridge drawbridge with a higher fixed-span bridge are seeking the city’s support. Lawsuit plaintiff, Cortez resident, and former Manatee County Commissioner Jane von Hahmann, asked the Bradenton Beach City Commission to become the fifth plaintiff in the lawsuit, filed on March 9, 2020, with the United States District Court for the Middle District of Florida Tampa Division. “We are still trying to challenge the 65-foot bridge,” von Hahmann told the commission on March 4. “We are now in the federal court system. It is beginning to move forward.” “What we’re asking you to do is possibly become the fifth plaintiff in our opposition to this bridge,” she said. “We think if we have that, a municipality, we might be able to bring them (FDOT) to the table. We hope you will consider it.” In response to von Hahmann’s request, Mayor John Chappie said, “I would like to put that on the agenda for our next city commission meeting, just to have some more discussion. Most of us have not been in favor of the bridge, so I would like to have that discussion.” The commission will meet again
JOE MCCLASH | SUBMITTED
This 2020 photograph illustrates the contrast between the existing Bayway Bridge and the new Bayway Bridge expected to open in Pinellas County this summer. at noon on Thursday, March 18. Former County Commissioner and current Suncoast Waterkeeper board chairman Joe McClash is the lead plaintiff in the lawsuit, with Cortez residents Joe Kane and Linda Molto also named as plaintiffs. The lawsuit names the Florida Department of Transportation (FDOT), FDOT Secretary Kevin J. Thibault, the United States Department of Transportation and Federal Highway Administration Administrator Nicole R. Nason as defendants. The lawsuit was filed in opposition to FDOT’s plans to replace the aging drawbridge, built in 1956, with a $66.5 million fixedspan bridge that provides 65 feet of vertical clearance. According to a 2015 FDOT case study, the existing drawbridge provides 17.5 feet of vertical clearance when the bridge is down. As a compromise, the plaintiffs support a new drawbridge that provides 35-feet
of vertical clearance. In February, FDOT representatives said the bridge replacement project is expected to move forward as planned and be put out to bid in late 2025, with construction expected to begin in 2026.
VON HAHMANN’S REQUEST
The materials von Hahmann provided each commissioner included a copy of the city resolution the commission adopted in October 2019 stating the commission’s collective opposition to the 65-foot, fixed-span bridge. She also provided copies of the federal lawsuit, a proposed settlement agreement and photographs McClash took last year of the Bayway Bridge being built between the Isla Del Sol and Tierra Verde islands in Pinellas County. That new bridge is expected to open this summer. Von Hahmann said the Bayway Bridge is almost identical to the SEE BRIDGE, PAGE 24
14
www.amisun.com
THE SUN
Help plan the future of the Longboat Key Bridge The Florida Department of Transportation is considering its options for repair or replacement of the Longboat Key Bridge and representatives are looking for input from the public to help make their decision. FDOT is hosting a hybrid meeting March 23. The public kickoff meeting will be a venue for the department’s representatives to share
information about the project development and environmental study and get feedback from the community. Community members can attend online at www. swflroads.com/sr789/longboatkey or in person at the Harbourside Ballroom at 3000 Harbourside Drive, Longboat Key. The meeting takes place from 5-7 p.m. on Tuesday, March 23.
MARCH 10, 2021
www.amisun.com
MARCH 10, 2021
THE SUN
15
Gulf Drive undergrounding project begins Using state funds, the phase 1 undergrounding project must be completed by June 30. BY JOE HENDRICKS SUN CORRESPONDENT | jhendricks@amisun.com
BRADENTON BEACH – The undergrounding of utility lines along Gulf Drive is now underway. When completed, the first phase of the project will result in burying the utility lines along Gulf Drive, from the southern tip of the city, near Coquina Beach, to Sixth Street South. The utility lines will also be undergrounded on the lateral streets from 13th Street South to Sixth Street South that intersect with Gulf Drive. A work crew from Wilco Electrical on Friday began boring and installing underground conduits along 13th, 12th and 11th streets south. The undergrounded utility lines that will run from the street-side conduits and connect directly to the individual residential properties will be provided at no cost to those property owners, and only minor utility service interruption is anticipated. The existing overhead lines and util-
JOE HENDRICKS | SUN
Bradenton Beach resident Judd Landon inquired about the undergrounding project’s impact on the existing streetlights. The crew from Wilco Electrical began its work on Friday. ity poles will be removed by FPL after the project is complete. Those removals will occur when FPL can schedule and allocate a crew to do the work. The project is being funded by a $2 million state appropriation. City Attorney Ricinda Perry and lobbyist Dave Ramba helped secure the state funds, with legislative support provided by State Rep. Will Robinson and thenFlorida Senate President Bill Galvano. The state appropriation requires the city project to be completed by June 30. A second and separate phase is being
engineered and planned by the city. The phase 2 project will begin at Fifth Street South and complete the Gulf Drive utility line undergrounding to the Cortez Bridge – or as far as existing funds will permit. The phase 2 project will also result in the removal and burial of all utility lines along Fifth, Fourth and Third streets south. The phase 2 project will be completed using leftover appropriations funds and/or additional funds provided by the Bradenton Beach Community Redevelopment Agency.
When discussing the Gulf Drive undergrounding project last year, the city commission’s preference was to begin on the north end of the city, but logistical challenges and time constraints resulted in the project starting at the south end of the city instead. The city commission hopes to underground the Gulf Drive utility lines north of the Cortez Bridge when funding becomes available. Raul Zamarripa and Juan Martinez are guiding Wilco Electrical’s efforts as the construction contractor, working in conjunction with Florida Power & Light (FPL), Verizon, and Spectrum. Utility Consultants of Florida CEO and Project Manager Mark Porter is coordinating the engineering, design, easement, and equipment locations and the inspections. Porter is also providing oversight of the underground boring and the installation of the transformer pads, equipment, and wire. Wilco Electrical and Porter played similar roles in the Bridge Street undergrounding project completed in 2020 and have been involved with the ongoing Longboat Key undergroundSEE UNDERGROUNDING, PAGE 21
16
THE SUN
www.amisun.com
MARCH 10, 2021
MURDER-SUICIDE: Final report released FROM PAGE 3
INCIDENT NARRATIVE
The final report includes the incident narrative Diaz included in his original offense report dated Oct. 17. According to that narrative, Diaz and Lt. John Cosby were dispatched to 2514 Ave. C on Saturday, Oct. 17, and advised that two dead people had been discovered by the victim’s father, Keith Dumdei. “The father stated that he observed his daughter through the glass windows on the door, laying on the living room floor in a pool of blood. Keith advised that he had made entry by punching one of the small glass windows on the door,” the report states, noting the door was locked at the time. According to the report narrative, Diaz and Cosby then entered the home and observed a female lying on the floor, covered with blood and lying in a pool of blood. “We also noticed blood everywhere,” Diaz stated in his report, noting that Cosby then walked further into the house and discovered Winton’s body in the bedroom, on the bed. The narrative states, “The Dumdei family advised that they had received information from Winton’s sister, Wendy, through Facebook Messenger that Wendy had not been able to reach her brother or Sabrina all day. One of the Dumdei sisters called their dad, Keith. Keith stated that he was already heading toward the beach, so he could go to the house and check on them. Upon pulling into the driveway, they found Sabrina’s little dog outside. They knew something was wrong. The family stated the dog never left Sabrina’s side. That was when Keith went upstairs,” Diaz stated in his narrative. “We were able to identify both suspects due to being at the residence in the past for a disturbance and prior domestic violence arrest, and by the family identification,” the narrative notes.
JOE HENDRICKS | SUN
The area near the triplex mailboxes became a temporary memorial for Sabrina Dumdei. The Avenue C triplex was demolished in November. Diaz’s narrative states he spoke with a man who had been vacationing with his family in a rented home at 2517 Ave. C since Sunday, Oct. 11. The man told Diaz the couple at 2514 Ave. C argued numerous times that week, including while walking down the road. The man told Diaz at one point he heard the couple arguing while walking and “The male yelled that he was going to kill her.” Diaz spoke with another female who was living nearby and saw the couple walking and arguing during the middle of that week. Diaz also spoke with neighbors and visitors who heard no disturbances. According to Diaz’s narrative. Winton’s sister, Wendy, woke up that Saturday morning and noticed she had missed three calls from her brother, Zachary. Those missed calls were made at approximately 7, 8 and 9 p.m. Friday. “According to Wendy, the last call to her from Zachary’s phone was a message. The message was a voice message of Sabrina yelling at Zachary that he was the one that was going to have to leave. Wendy advised that after hearing that last missed call, she tried contacting Zachary and Sabrina but could not reach either of them. Wendy stated that she then Messengered Sabrina’s sisters on Facebook and asked if they could go
by and check on Sabrina and Zachary,” Diaz stated in his narrative.
PREVIOUS DEATH THREAT
According to court records, Winton was arrested by the Bradenton Beach Police Department on Aug. 31 on charges of aggravated assault with a deadly weapon, tampering with a witness, false imprisonment and domestic battery. The victim’s name and the address were redacted in the probable cause affidavit prepared then by officer Steve Masi. But after the suspected murder-suicide occurred, Diaz confirmed Dumdei was the victim in the August incident that occurred at the same Avenue C address. According to the probable cause affidavit Masi filed, “Defendant and victim had been arguing for the last two days. Victim stated Winton refused to let her leave the house, or his sight, by threats of violence. Defendant then grabbed her by the face and held a razor knife to her neck and said, ‘Leave and see what happens.’ Victim had a wellfounded fear that Winton had the ability to carry out such a threat and that it would take place. Victim finally got
away and made the call to 911 dispatch but had to hang up in the middle of the call, as defendant had found her and once again put her in fear of violence. “Upon my arrival, defendant was yelling and walking at victim with a large kitchen knife I observed in his right back pocket. Defendant was issued verbal commands at taser point to back away from the victim. He then complied and was detained. While detained in the police department, Winton made numerous threatening remarks about what he was going to do to victim when he gets out, such as ‘If I get charged with felonies, I’ll kill her then myself. I will cut her throat,’” according to the probable cause affidavit. According to court records, on Sept. 9 Winton’s attorney, Jacob Grollman, filed a motion to allow consensual contact with Dumdei. On Sept. 15, the no-contact order was lifted and the status of Winton’s criminal case was still pending at the time of their deaths. In November, the triplex was demolished by the new owners who had purchased the property shortly before the fatal incident occurred.
MARCH 10, 2021
www.amisun.com
THE SUN
17
JOE HENDRICKS | SUN
These new benches are made of Australian pine.
Pocket park created along Bridge Street The brick pavers and four new wooden benches installed in front of the Bradenton Beach Post Office have created a pocket park that provides a place to sit and
relax along Bridge Street. Similar to those previously installed at the Mar Vista Dockside Restaurant in Longboat Key, the new benches are made from the wood of an
Australian pine tree. The Bradenton Beach Community Redevelopment Agency funded the benches, brick pavers and creation of the pocket park.
18
THE SUN
OUTDOORS
MARCH 10, 2021
Volunteers clean up Sister Keys Reel Time RUSTY CHINNIS
S
uncoast Waterkeeper teamed up with Sarasota Bay Watch on Saturday, March 6 during the annual Sister Keys cleanup. Thirty-five volunteers braved inclement weather and collected almost 900 pounds of debris from the unique chain of islands in north Sarasota Bay. The event was a collaboration with the Town of Longboat Key and the Mar Vista Dockside Restaurant. Volunteers led by Sarasota Bay Watch Program Direc-
tor Ronda Ryan worked for four hours on the island and around the mangrove fringes collecting trash and recyclable items. Longbeach Village residents Becky Parrish, Michael Riter, Patty McBride and Barry Rooks managed traffic and ferried volunteers on their golf carts from parking at Whitney Beach Plaza. Other Village residents including Mark McBride, Benny Parrish and Dan Madole managed transporting and orienting helpers. Ivan Zunz and his daughter Zuleika, Ali Claypoole, Jen McLellan and Henry and Deborah Stachura all pitched in. After returning and sorting their “treasure,” participants were treated to a gourmet box lunch by the Mar Vista
staff. Anna Maria resident Ed Chiles, owner of the Mar Vista, has been a sponsor of the event since its inception in 2010. Special thanks go out to Larry Beggs of Reef Innovations who donated his time and barge to transport volunteers and debris. Longboat Key Public Works helped clear trails on the Sister Keys and provided a dump truck to haul the debris while Longboat Key Police officer Ed Kolodzieski was on hand to slow boat traffic in the Intracoastal Waterway. Through an arrangement with Longboat Key Public Works, volunteers can still do a cleanup on their own until Sunday, March 14 and deposit bags at the town dock for pickup.
RUSTY CHINNIS | SUN
From left, Peter Peduzzi, Ann Maria Shields and Federico Vasquez return with a load of trash collected with the help of sisters Ashley and Brianna Aular and their mother, Katie Aular.
www.amisun.com
MARCH 10, 2021
THE SUN
19
Help clean up the Island’s waters Holmes Beach city leaders are forming a new Clean Water Ad Hoc Committee and you don’t have to be a resident of the city to join. Committee members will be appointed by city commissioners to serve as advisors to commissioners on improving water quality in the region. While members
will not be able to replace, contradict or preempt existing water management plans, they will focus on how to ensure waters are clean for shellfish harvesting, swimming, fishing and drinking, and that a healthy, natural ecosystem is sustained. Members will meet as needed and will prioritize and coordinate community ac-
tivity and philanthropy projects to further water quality improvements. All appointed committee members will be sworn in and will be required to abide by all Sunshine Law requirements. While members do not have to be city residents, they are required to meet in Holmes Beach as needed.
Algae in river Blue-green algae was detected in the Manatee River off Ellenton on March 4, according to the Florida Department of Environmental Protection. The algae can produce harmful toxins and can cause abnormally-colored water or floating “muck mats,” and may create health risks for humans, pets and livestock.
Applications for the committee will be accepted through the end of March at the city clerk’s office in city hall, 5801 Marina Drive. To obtain an application, visit www.holmesbeachfl.org, http://cms9. revize.com/holmesbeachfl/departments/ clean_water_committee.php, or contact the city clerk’s office at 941-708-5800.
Water quality report
Bayfront Park North Bradenton Beach Coquina Beach North Coquina Beach South Manatee Beach North Palma Sola Bay South
To help keep algae growth at bay, Florida law bans the use of phosphorus and nitrogen fertilizers during the rainy season, June 1 through Sept. 30. Report algae blooms to DEP at 855305-3903. Report fish kills to FWC at 800-636-0511.
Good Good Good Good Good Good
Source: Florida Department of Heath
High
RED TIDE REPORT
(respiratory irritation, shellfish harvesting closures, fish kills, water discoloration)
Background
Medium
(probable respiratory irritation, shellfish harvesting closures, fish kills)
Low
Very low
(possible respiratory irritation)
(no effects)
None
(no red tide present)
(possible respiratory irritation, shellfish harvesting closures, fish kills) Source: Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission
20
THE SUN
FOOD & WINE The finishing touch
MARCH 10, 2021
Coconut Butterscotch Croissant Bread Pudding
Joe Rimer
Ingredients
10 large croissants, large diced 4 ounces toasted coconut ½ bag (5.5 ounces) Nestle Toll House Butterscotch Morsels
PESTO BISTRO AND WINE BAR
Toss the above ingredients in large bowl 6 whole eggs ½ quart heavy cream 4 ounces sugar 1 splash vanilla extract
A
dining experience needs to always end as well as it started. Often that will mean finishing with a flavorful dessert. A dessert has the challenge of still being appetizing to the guest after they have already filled up on what was hopefully a great entrée. It is the chef ’s final opportunity to show off his creativity. With that being said, desserts will often go the extra step in flavor and appearance. Most restaurants will also use their desserts as the final step in showing guests their style. At Pesto Bistro and Wine Bar we create most of our desserts in house. One of the exceptions is our specialty cheesecakes. They are produced from scratch for two of our dessert presentations by the awesome “Cheesecake Cutie” on Anna Maria Island. We have two different preparations that we do with the “Cheesecake Cuties” that adds our flare to these awesome products. For the Chocolate Ganache Encrusted Cheesecake, we add our Godiva chocolate mousse and a Bailey’s Irish Cream anglaise sauce. For the Twin Cheesecakes, featuring apple cream cheese and blueberry lemon, we accent with a wild berry
Directions
SUBMITTED
anglaise, fresh strawberries and shortbread. We enjoy creating and putting a new spin on dessert classics. A great example is our Nutty Irishman Tiramisu. This dessert incorporates Bailey’s Irish Cream and pistachios into a traditional mascarpone mousse with amaretto and espressosoaked lady fingers. We also have had much success with our Coconut Butterscotch Croissant Bread Pudding, which is the featured recipe. One of our biggest challenges in having great desserts is in having a correct balance and variety. From chocoholics to fruit lovers, it is important to create a range that satisfies a variety of guests’ desires. For our dessert selections, we even range on temperature desires
from a piping hot bread pudding to a frozen gelato trio. Our gelatos are made traditionally by a local Italian gelato producer and include sea salt caramel, berry cheesecake and double chocolate. Having a great cappuccino, a sweet sauterne, or port to sip can also be a nice touch. Even that final cup of coffee needs to be given attention. The dessert can be perfect and yet if it is served with a lukewarm or bitter cup of coffee the guest is going to remember the disappointment of that final cup. It is the final moments of the dining experience that will quite often be the most memorable. There is nothing better than a sweet finish, and hopefully your dining experiences will always have a fun and flavorful ending!
www.TheFeastRestaurantAMI.com
Thoroughly mix the above four ingredients and the pour over diced croissant mix, occasionally remix the mixture for the next 10 minutes at room temperature. Distribute recipe to 6 individual casseroles. Place casseroles on half sheet pan with a couple of ounces of water in the pan and bake at 350 degrees for 12 to 15 minutes until bubbly and brown on top. You may also do this in a single casserole. If so, 350 degrees is good and you should bake until the top slightly rises and is nicely browned.
Sauce Anglaise Ingredients
2 ounces Baileys Irish Cream 12 ounces cream 4 ounces sugar 8 yolks Splash vanilla
Directions
Incorporate all ingredients in a stainless steel bowl, whip together with a piano wire whip, continue to whip over double boil method until sauce stiffens; cool and adjust to proper sauce consistency with additional cream or half and half. Top the croissant bread pudding with sauce anglaise and then finish with caramel and chocolate sauce.
www.amisun.com
MARCH 10, 2021
January 2021 tourist tax collections compared to January 2020
Anna Maria Bradenton Beach Holmes Beach Manatee County Total*
24% 25% 32% 1%
*(Anna Maria Island, Bradenton, Longboat Key, unincorporated Manatee County, Palmetto)
Manatee County’s 5% resort tax, or tourist tax, is collected from owners of accommodations rented for six months or less who charge the tax to their renters, in most cases, tourists. About 50% of the tax proceeds are allocated to Bradenton Area Convention and Visitors Bureau tourism marketing efforts, with 20% allocated to beach renourishment. The tax also partially funds tourism-related attractions such as the Bradenton Beach and Anna Maria piers. Amounts shown were collected in 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
THE SUN
21
UNDERGROUNDING: Project begins FROM PAGE 15
ing project. As she did with the Bridge Street undergrounding project, Perry will again serve as the city’s on-site project liaison, working with all parties involved.
LIGHTING IMPACTS
During public comment at the Thursday, March 4, city commission meeting, 12th Street South resident Judd Landon asked the commission what impact the undergrounding project would have on the existing hard-wired
streetlights. He was referring to the streetlights currently in place at the Gulf Drive intersections and the bayside street ends. According to correspondence Perry recently received from Florida Department of Transportation, District Traffic Operations Engineer Mark Mathes, streetlights are not required along the FDOT-controlled Gulf Drive corridor. During the impromptu commission discussion prompted by Landon’s question, the commission agreed that for the safety of resi-
dents and visitors, solar lighting will be installed at those impacted intersections and street ends. According to Perry, the estimated cost for the replacement solar lighting along Gulf Drive is about $35,000. The new lights installed along Gulf Drive will match the new solar lights recently ordered for Bridge Street. The existing streetlights on the impacted lateral streets will be replaced with solar lights and light fixtures removed from Bridge Street after the new lights are installed.
22
I
THE SUN
REAL ESTATE
MARCH 10, 2021
Look before you leap
n case you haven’t noticed, there is a pandemic housing fever going around the country. This is putting a lot of pressure on buyers to buy fast, buy online, compromise, and - probably the biggest mistake - not research locations they’re not familiar with. Houses, like so many other shiny objects, are emotional purchases, but unlike jewelry, electronics and clothing, they can’t be returned the next day. Even emotional purchases of cars could give you a way out after a few months, but houses are a lot more complicated. Because of this frenzy, many buyers are living in homes in areas they learn to hate in a very short period of time. They have faced engineering issues not disclosed or easily seen and many have overlooked potential risks in an effort to get to the finish line before someone else does. Waiving inspections is one of the biggest mistakes motivated buyers will make in order to make their offer look better than the competition, but that could lead to costly repairs down the road.
Castles in the Sand LOUISE BOLGER Another big mistake COVID buyers are making is relocating and buying in an area they’re not familiar with. Think of a buyer from, say, low-humidity California or Nevada who falls in love with Anna Maria Island. If you’ve never lived in a humid environment close to or on the water, the concept of mold, dampness and peeling paint could come as a shock - not to mention salt-encrusted windows. Worse still is a city dweller who runs to the country or suburbs during the height of the virus infections and discovers a couple of months later they hate the culture, miss the activity and wake up one day and have no idea why they’re there.
A lot of this frenzy is fueled by the ability to shop online, make offers and close properties without ever stepping foot inside. Online homebuying has picked up speed at an extraordinary pace this past year and so far is not showing signs of slowing. There has been a widespread adoption of tech tools that allow buyers to not just browse real estate but also apply for loans, finalize transactions and even have documents notarized. This is becoming the new normal, especially for millennials who are tech-savvy and not intimidated by sending all their savings to the cloud or some other virtual entity. Want to know how widespread this is? Look at these statistics according to Redfin, Realtor.com and Zillow.com: 63% of buyers in November and December made an offer on a house they hadn’t seen in person; 41% increase in traffic on Zillow searching for sale listings compared to a year ago; and 63% of millennial homebuyers say their home search is motivated by the fact that
they are now working remotely. Adding to the ease of choosing a home online, Zillow and Realtor.com recently rolled out new interactive home tours. The new home tours are 3D with really exciting imagery and the hope is to provide a better alternative to the existing prerecorded video tours. It gives you the ability to click on a particular room and move about the room at your own pace, and one of them even gives you a bird’s eye view of the interior of the property and the ability to have floor plan interaction. I noticed some of the Island real estate brokers have this new technology attached to their listings, and I expect to see many more in the future. We’re living in a new world for many reasons, and home buying in particular has changed drastically in the past 12 months. Nevertheless, don’t let the COVID buying fever force you into something you’ll regret. Fevers are bad - both COVID fever and COVID homebuying fever. Stay safe.
www.amisun.com
MARCH 10, 2021
THE SUN
MOTE: City pier discussions continue FROM PAGE 1
funding application for consideration by the Tourist Development Council (TDC) and the Manatee County Commission. Murphy said he’s trying to gauge the county’s interest in providing some or all of the $500,000 the city would have to raise to establish the marine educational outreach center that Mote Marine would then operate at its expense. The Mote proposal presented on Feb. 10, and further discussed on Feb. 17, doesn’t call for Mote Marine to make monthly lease payments or compensate the city for the use of the building. On Feb. 17, the commission voted 4-1 to explore the Mote option first. Commissioner Mark Short cast the lone opposition vote, saying he felt it was too soon to limit the city’s pursuit to a single option. Other potential uses discussed included a full-service restaurant, a special events venue, a retail shop, or an open-air cantina. During the past three pier-related commission discussions, no in-person public opposition has been expressed regarding the proposed Mote Marine
facility. The proposal has generated some criticism from Facebook users, however, who feel the city-owned space should house a full-service restaurant. That opinion has also been reflected in some emails sent to the mayor and commissioners.
COMMISSION SUPPORT
When expressing her continued support for the Mote Marine proposal during the Feb. 25 meeting, Commission Chair Carol Carter referenced the city’s comprehensive plan – a document that establishes the city’s overall vision for development and future growth. Carter noted the comp plan includes elements that call for the city to provide recreational, environmental and educational facilities and opportunities. “I think that’s an important thing for us to consider,” she said. “I’m just astounded some people are still demanding a restaurant,” Commissioner Joe Muscatello added. Murphy said, “Nowhere in the comprehensive plan does it say that we should be renting property for profit. But it does say we should be providing recreational facilities and we
JOE HENDRICKS | SUN
Mayor Dan Murphy met with Mote Marine representatives last week and plans to meet with them again soon. should be endorsing environmental education. We don’t get any revenue from the (Island) Players. We don’t get any revenue from the historical museum. We don’t get any money from the community center. This is not a new concept to this city, to take city space and use it to fulfill what’s in the comprehensive plan. I truly believe government fulfills a space that private enterprise cannot fill. That’s our mission.” Carter thanked Murphy for his preliminary efforts and said, “It’s not a done deal. We understand that.”
BOB CARTER CLARIFICATION
During public comment at the Feb. 25 meeting, Carter’s husband, Bob, referenced his status as a current
23
Mote Marine board member and he clarified his role in the pursuit of a Mote Marine facility on the City Pier. He said serving as a volunteer Mote Marine board member provides him with no financial gain. He also noted he previously chaired the National Aquarium Board and has served on several other volunteer boards as well – positions he said cost him money rather than making him money. “There’s been some question about my motives in suggesting that Mote be out there. People on the Island know that I, as well as my spouse, am very interested in the environment. We helped bring Philippe Cousteau here to talk about clean oceans. We helped bring John Englander here to talk about sea-level rise. I don’t make any apologies for financially supporting and advocating for these causes in education, conservation, environment and global health. That’s why I suggested to Dr. Crosby that he might want to do something out here, and I’m delighted the commission has seen fit to give them a chance to do this. It will set this pier apart from a commercial-only enterprise and it will become a landmark of a different kind,” Carter said, noting it’s not always about “how many hamburgers you can sell.”
24
www.amisun.com
THE SUN
MARCH 10, 2021
BRIDGE: Opponents ask city to join federal lawsuit FROM PAGE13
proposed bridge FDOT plans to build between Cortez and Bradenton Beach and the photographs she shared illustrate the contrasts in size between the old and new bridges. Von Hahmann also expressed continued concern about the walleffect the new bridge will create in the areas where the bridge begins to rise from the ground-level roadway. “They keep saying that we’re not going to get a wall in Cortez. They are going to have a wall. It’s going to require a wall for the takeoff, especially on our side because there’s a road that will have to go underneath the bridge in order to access Tide Tables and the trailer park,” she said. Von Hahmann said she used a flyover video illustration previously produced by FDOT to compile a still illustration showing where the walled sides of the bridge will occur. She said the bridge opponents will provide that illustration to FDOT District Secretary L.K. Nandam as part of their ongoing efforts to garner his support for their position. “We’re hoping to talk to him and get him on our side,” von Hahmann said.
JOE HENDRICKS | SUN
Cortez resident and lawsuit plaintiff Jane von Hahmann addressed the Bradenton Beach Commission last week. Regarding the new bridge’s potential impact, she said, “It’s going to impact the village, there’s just no two ways about it. And I’m frankly quite sick of doing everything just for automobiles. It’s not helping us in the village westbound, because you can’t take any more traffic out here. It starts at 9:15 (a.m.) and the last two weeks it has not ended until quarter-to-six at night.” she said. She also expressed her opinion that technology could be used to
Perico Bay Club—As Good As It Gets!! JUST SOLD!!! 1223 Spoonbill Landings Circle I $320,000 518 Woodstork Circle I $308,000 NOW PENDING 627 Estuary Drive 1107 Edgewater Circle 1189 Edgewater Circle Give me a callll today toda if you ou’re ’ lookingg lookin to Buy or Sellll on Anna Ann naa Maria n Ma M Island Islaand or the surrounding oun area! a!
941.248.0882 I Lynn@Edgewaterami.com www.EdgewaterRealEstateInc.com
reduce the expense of a drawbridge by eliminating the labor costs of bridgetenders. “There’s no need to have somebody sit at that bridge to have it go up and down,” she said, noting that boaters could place a phone call that results in the bridge being opened at the appropriate and allowed intervals. “When we traveled across the state by boat, we had to do that at three bridges,” she said.
www.amisun.com
MARCH 10, 2021
OBITUARIES Vivian Barrett Wahlman Vivian Barrett Wahlman, 100, of Bradenton, passed away on Feb. 28, 2021. Born in Rockaway Beach, NY, she moved to Hollywood, FL in the 1960s and to Bradenton in the 1970s. She worked as a legal secretary in both New York City and Florida. A skilled and talented seamstress, she made beautiful clothing for herself and family members and assisted with the costumes for the Island Players for many years. She is survived by her nephew, Bill Barrett, and his wife, Sherrain, of Grand Forks, ND, and her devoted first cousin, Dorothy Eder, 101, with whom she lived. She is also survived by many other much-loved cousins and dedicated friends, helpers and Mahjong partners. She was predeceased by her husband, Erik Wahlman; her parents, Julius and Mabel Barrett; her brother, William Barrett; and her nephew, Robert Barrett. At Vivian's request, there will be no services. Brown & Sons
Funeral Homes & Crematory 43rd Street Chapel is in charge of the arrangements. Condolences may be made to www.brownandsonsfuneral.com.
BEACH BEAT HOLMES BEACH
2/24, found property, Gulf Drive and 75th Street. A bicycle was found and police took it for safekeeping. 2/23, possession of less than five grams of marijuana, 5800 block of Marina Drive. The officers made a traffic stop for vehicle registration problems and smelled marijuana. They seized the pot and issued a code violation citation and ticket for driving with a license plate not assigned to the vehicle. 2/24, driving an unregistered vehicle, 600 Manatee Ave. An unregistered vehicle was involved in an accident; the officer ticketed the driver. 2/25, 2 a.m., Camping code violation, warrant arrest, 3800 Gulf Drive. The officer found the subject sleeping and a search of his record showed a warrant for his
THE SUN
arrest. He was taken into custody. 2/26, theft, Freckled Fin, 5337 Gulf Drive. A mannequin was stolen. 2/27, 9:49 a.m., driving with no valid driver’s license, 700 Manatee Ave. The officer was alerted about a vehicle with an unlicensed driver, who was given a summons to appear in court. 2/27, 5:10 p.m., battery, spouse abuse, resisting a law enforcement officer, child abuse, 4000 Gulf Drive. The officer was directed to the Manatee Beach parking lot where an argument between a male and female was in progress. Each person showed evidence of physical violence and witnesses said the female hit the male first. She argued with officers while holding a baby by one arm and was arrested. 2/27, 10 p.m., noise violation, 204 72nd St. The officer responded to a vacation rental after numerous complaints. The noise from children and adults registered past acceptable limits, according to the officer, who wrote a code violation citation to the renters.
25
CINDY LANE | SUN
Investigators surround the scene of a drowning near the 35th Street beach access March 3 in Holmes Beach.
DROWNING: Foul play not suspected FROM PAGE 1
“I’m so heartbroken,” Emily Lane Payne said. “I love you, Tiff. May you rest in peace.” “So many fond memories with Tiff,” Shannon Harris posted. “She had a kind soul and deserved a long happy life. May you rest in peace, Tiff.” “You will be forever missed, Tiff,” Ashley Young said. Other friends questioned why Williams was at the beach swimming alone. Holmes Beach Police Chief Bill Tokajer said there no signs of, and officers do not suspect, foul play in this case.
LOCALLY KNOWN. GLOBALLY CONNECTED. SINCE 1976.
BAY PALMS 512 68th Street Hannah Hillyard 941-744-7358 A4484565 $985,000
MAINSAIL BEACH INN 107 66th Street 12 Kristi Berger & Deborah Capobianco 941-730-3801 A4452254 $848,888
TIDY ISLAND 73 Tidy Island Boulevard Kathy Valente & Gregory Zies, LLC 941-685-6767 A4477926 $670,000
PORTOBELLO 3240 Gulf Of Mexico Drive 602 Michael Moulton 941-928-3559 A4484014 $649,000
SANDHAMN 5372 Sandhamn Place Richard Perlman 941-228-8580 A4458496 $3,700,000
MAINSAIL BEACH INN 103 66th Street 10 Kristi Berger 941-730-3801 A4452245 $488,888
LE CHALET 221 21st Street W Lynne Callahan 941-720-3278 A4474894 $449,000
RIVER POINT OF MANATEE 3612 2nd Drive NE Stephanie Okuley 941-773-2677 A4491235 $349,999
RIVERVIEW PINES 1307 Riverview Circle Kathy Valente & Gregory Zies, LLC 941-685-6767 A4491349 $739,900
COUNTRY MEADOWS 705 Country Meadows Way Debbie Vogler 941-705-3328 A4491619 $675,000
MAINSAIL BEACH INN 101 66th Street 6 Kristi Berger 941-730-3801 A4452260 $588,888
TIDY ISLAND CONDO 10 Tidy Island Boulevard Kathy Marshall 941-900-9777 A4491987 $575,000
RIVER YACHT & RACQUET CLUB 204 3rd Street W 204 Patty Brooks 941-545-1194 A4462765 $217,000
PALMA SOLA BAY CLUB 79th Street Circle W 301 Pamela Miller & Mike Curtin 614-632-2801 A4483010 $442,285
NEW CONSTRUCTION
MSC MORTGAGE | MSC TITLE | MS&C COMMERCIAL NEW HOMES & CONDOMINIUMS
SAINT JUDES APTS 729 Saint Judes Drive S 2 Cathy Meldahl 941-724-7228 A4488291 $339,000
888.552.5228 | MICHAELSAUNDERS.COM
26
THE SUN
www.amisun.com
MARCH 10, 2021
Top real estate producers for February 2021 A PARADISE
Quentin Talbert - Listing & Selling
AN ISLAND PLACE REALTY
Billi Gartman - Listing Sue Carlson & Tanya McCormick - Selling
DUNCAN REAL ESTATE
Darcie Duncan – Listing & Selling
EDGEWATER REAL ESTATE
Lynn Zemmer - Listing & Selling
FRAN MAXON REAL ESTATE
Kathryn Sandberg – Listing Sharon and Tim Villars - Selling
ISLAND REAL ESTATE
Kathleen White & Erin Leathem - Listing Ryan Sheck - Selling
MICHAEL SAUNDERS
Kate Enis - Listing Hannah Hillyard - Selling
MIKE NORMAN
Marianne Norman-Ellis – Listing Kathy Caserta - Selling
REMAX ALLIANCE GROUP
Cindy Quinn - Listing & Selling
SALTY MERMAID REAL ESTATE Grant Cole - Listing Nicole Skaggs - Selling
SATO REAL ESTATE
Jason Sato – Listing & Selling
WAGNER REAL ESTATE
Miguel Rosa – Listing & Selling
www.amisun.com
MARCH 10, 2021
THE SUN
27
VACCINE: Where to get vaccines in Manatee County FROM PAGE 1
At the state-run site, Saur said the plan is to give 1,000 first doses per day, five days a week for four weeks followed by four weeks of second doses. All the appointments at the countyand state-run sites are filled at random from those registered in the county’s standby waiting pool. Recipients can expect to receive a text from 88911 or a call from 941-742-4300 to confirm their appointment. Recipients who do not confirm their appointment within two hours will be put back in the waiting pool. Thanks to changes in the qualifications to receive a COVID-19 vaccination in the state of Florida, more people are now eligible to receive shots. Florida residents 65 and older continue to be qualified to receive the shot and are joined by residents and staff at longterm care facilities, frontline healthcare workers who have direct patient contact, law enforcement officers and firefighters age 50 and older, daycare workers, and pre-kindergarten through 12th-grade teachers. Teachers age 50 and older can get their COVID-19 vaccinations through the state-run site while teachers younger than 50 can get them
from retail pharmacy locations. Anyone with an underlying condition that makes them susceptible to the novel coronavirus also is eligible to receive the vaccine from retail pharmacy locations with a letter of authorization from their doctor. The form can be found online at http://ww11.doh.state. fl.us/comm/_partners/covid19_report_archive/covid-physician-form/EO-21-47Form.pdf. Currently only seniors aged 65 and older, first responders and healthcare workers are eligible to receive the vaccine from the Manatee County site. To register for those standby waiting pools, call 311 between 9 a.m. and 5 p.m. Monday through Friday, or register online at www.mymanatee.org/vaccine. Everyone else who is deemed eligible by the state to receive the first dose of the vaccine can register online for appointments at local CVS, Publix, Walgreens, Walmart and Winn-Dixie locations. To register online for an appointment at an area CVS location, visit https:// www.cvs.com/immunizations/covid19-vaccine?icid=cvs-home-hero1-banner-1-coronavirus-vaccine. Publix locations are releasing ap-
JOE HENDRICKS | SUN
These brick pavers are left over from the completed Bridge Street paver installation project. SOURCE: FLORIDA DEPARTMENT OF HEALTH
pointment times to the public online every Monday, Wednesday and Friday at 7 a.m. To register for one of these appointments, visit https://www.publix. com/covid-vaccine/florida. For appointments at Walgreens locations, visit https://www.walgreens. com/findcare/vaccination/covid19?ban=covid_vaccine_landing_schedule. Appointments at Walmart are available at https://www.walmart.com/cp/flushots-immunizations/1228302. Appointments at local Winn-Dixie locations can be scheduled at https:// www.winndixie.com/pharmacy/covidvaccine.
The Gulf Coast Luxury Leader Thanks to our valued customers and talented team of professionals, we are proud to announce
HOLMES BEACH 606 Crestwood Lane $3,925,000 Laurie Mock 941.232.3665
ANNA MARIA 317 Iris Street $3,700,000 Shellie Young 941.713.5458
ANNA MARIA BEACH 515 Spring Avenue $1,195,000 Traute Winsor 941.504.1949
There has never been a better time to sell your property
HOLMES BEACH 3716 Gulf Drive #C $1,699,000 Laurie Mock 941.232.3665
HOLMES BEACH 7308 Gulf Drive #4 $1,174,000 Paul Scharf 813.362.6659
Brick pavers to be used at Lou Barolo Park The leftover brick pavers currently stored in the city-owned parking lot next to the Bradenton Beach Public Works Department building will soon be installed in the unpaved parking spaces that surround nearby Lou Barolo Park. The remaining pavers will then be used to cover or partially cover the unpaved parking lot where they are stored. The leftover pavers are from the previously completed, Community Redevelopment Agency funded, right of way, and parking improvements made along Bridge Street and elsewhere in the CRA district.
$7.1 Billion
in Total Company Sales Volume for 2020
ANNA MARIA 5619 Gulf Drive $1,225,000 Andrew Tanner & Peter Laughlin 941.539.0998
LOOP OF NW BRADENTON 9641 18th Avenue Circle NW $949,900 Martha Marlar 941.812.0455
LAKEWOOD RANCH | 941.907.9541 SARASOTA - DOWNTOWN | 941.364.4000 LONGBOAT KEY | 941.383.1526 VENICE TO PUNTA GORDA | 941.412.3323
RENTALS | 941.487.6019
Sotheby’s International Realty® and the Sotheby’s International Realty logo are registered service marks used with permission. Each office is independently owned and operated. Equal Housing Opportunity. Property information herein is derived from various sources including, but not limited to, county records and multiple listing services, and may include approximations. All information is deemed accurate.
28
THE SUN
SPORTS
MARCH 10, 2021
Youth flag football, adult sports in full swing BY MONICA SIMPSON SPECIAL TO THE SUN
The stage is set for youth flag football at The Center of Anna Maria Island. In the 8- to 10-year-old league, the small gridiron this week will be the location of the match-up between Moss Builders and Beach Bums, as well as Shady Lady versus Cloud. Top seed Moss Builders was set to capture a seat in the championship game this past Tuesday night. Root Logix, ranked first going into the playoffs, faces Ugly Grouper in the older youth flag football league, hoping to meet up with team Poppos or The Gitt Team in the final game of the season for the championship title. Finishing game seven in both the adult co-ed flag football league and adult co-ed soccer league, Sato Real Estate and Burton Brick and Tile go into the playoffs, both with 5-0-2 records. Allied finishes the regular season with a 5-1-1 record to round out the top three teams. In the four wins, goalkeeper Ryan Moss tops the night with 11 saves for Jiffy Lube in its loss against Sato Real Estate. Mark Rudacille was credited with eight saves in the night, contributing to his team’s win. Sato Real Estate’s Will Kretzmann and Damir Glavan each had single goals in the game. Teammate Race Arande scored two points for the Sato team to finish the game with the score 4-1. Burton Brick and Tile split the goalie duties between Jonathan Aragon with six saves and Chris Klotz with seven stops. The scoring for Burton was spread between Kris Yavalar, Klotz and Aragon with solo goals for each. Yavalar’s sister-in-law, Katie Christenson, also had a single goal against The Gitt Team keeper Neil Fellowes. Zach Leib rounds out the scoring for Burton Brick and Tile with two goals of his own.
In the loss, Fellowes was recorded to have five goals, while the team’s goal scorers were Tanner Zellmar, Jamie Hutchinson and Will Romberger. Slim’s Place could not find a win in the regular season with another loss against Blalock Walters. David Green and Hyun Kim each managed to get the soccer ball past Blalock goalie Kevin Mulcahy, who had seven saves in the game. Five of Blalock’s team members put points on the board against Slim’s Place’s Mark Long, keeper for the team. Nick Bouchard and Nate Welch both scored single goals in the game. Matt Staggs, Chris Scott and Kali Richardson all managed to get their foot on the soccer ball, each credited with two goals in the win against Slim’s Place, finishing the season with a 3-4-0 record. In the first soccer game of the night, Allied solidly won against Servis First Bank, winning by five goals. The single goal for Servis was scored by Sean Gray. Servis’ Andrew Sullivan and Nate Talucci worked as the team’s goalkeeper, battling the firepower of Zach Reda with four goals for Allied. Raul Loera and Cody Wright each had goals of their own to start the night of action at The Center. The coming weeks will determine who will play in the championship games for the adults. Can Sato Real Estate win another adult soccer title? Will Allied capture their first Hayward Cup win? Or will an underdog take it all?
SUN SCOREBOARD TUESDAY, MARCH 2 YOUTH CO-ED FLAG FOOTBALL WEEK QUARTER FINAL PLAYOFFS 8- TO 10-YEAR-OLD LEAGUE Tidy MD Shady Lady
L W
Key Royale Club Mixed Couples Championship
Cloud Ray’s Ramblings
W L
Coastline Contractors Beach Bums
L W
11- TO 13-YEAR-OLD LEAGUE Poppos HSH
W L
Ugly Grouper Gulf Drive Cafe
W L
Detweillers The Gitt Team
L W
WEDNESDAY, MARCH 3 ADULT CO-ED SOCCER WEEK #7 Servis First Bank Allied
(3-4-0) 1 (5-1-1) 6
Blalock Walters Slim’s Place
(3-4-0) 8 (0-5-2) 2
The Gitt Team Burton Brick and Tile
(2-5-0) 3 (5-0-2) 6
Sato Real Estate Jiffy Lube
(5-0-2) 4 (1-5-1) 1
THURSDAY, MARCH 4 ADULT CO-ED FLAG FOOTBALL WEEK #7 Ugly Grouper Sandbar
(7-0) 48 (2-5) 21
Solid Rock Construction Beach Bums
(4-3) 7 (6-1) 22
Moss Builders Salty Printing
(4-3) 47 (0-7) 13
Mi-Box Slim’s Place
(2-4) 29 (2-4) 33
On Saturday, Feb. 27, men and ladies golfers hit the links for the final of four rounds to determine winners of the Mixed Couples Tournament. There were 21 teams that played four matches each. Finishing and tied for third place were Pam and Gary Alvord and Monica and Eric Lawson. Second place went to Helen and Al Pollock. And the champions were Betsy Meyer and Bill MacMillan winning by the slim margin of two-tenths of one percent. After the event, accompanied by perfect weather, libations and snacks were enjoyed by all on the patio. MARCH 1 - MODIFIED STAPLEFORD (MEN AND LADIES PLAYING) 1st Place Individual (tie) - with a score of +5, Ken Nagengast, Larry Solberg, Quentin Talbert 1st Place Team - with a score of +7, Mike Clements, Ken Nagengast, Wayne Patterson, Gary Risner MARCH 2 - LOW NET SCORE - LADIES ONLY Flight A Helen Pollock 30 Sue Wheeler 31 Marcia Friesen 31 Monica Lawson 33 Flight B Carol Patterson 28 Susan VanOrsdale 30 Judy Todd 31 Mary Lou Dreier 31 Flight C Lisa Edmonds 27 Anne Kein 29 Jane Perkins 30 Marcia Friesen had two birdies on Holes #2 & #3 MARCH 4 – TWO-PERSON HANDICAP BEST BALL PLAYING ON A FOUR-PERSON TEAM - (MEN AND LADIES PLAYING) First place team – Longball: Ronnie Babcock, Jon Holcomb, Jim Menzies, John Purcell with a score of even par 64
MARCH 10, 2021
FUN IN THE SUN
Across 1 Makes a hasty getaway 5 Insect stage after larva 9 Bathroom wall piece 13 Not many 14 Umpires' decisions 16 Cabinet dept. with a windmill on its seal 17 Toy on a track 19 Volcanic output 20 WWI French soldier 21 Almanacs, calendars, etc. 23 Drag one's feet 24 Native growth in an Asian orchard 25 Philosopher __-tzu 27 Mme., in Madrid 28 Money for the poor 32 Ancient colonnade 35 Bumper sticker word 39 Grilling accessory 42 Award for "Green Answers to 03-03-21 Crossword Puzzle.
Book" 43 Spanish appetizer 44 Ward of "Once and Again" 45 Korean soldier 47 Springsteen's "Born in the __" 49 Result of too-tight jeans, perhaps 54 TV monitoring device 59 Directed 60 Maine college town 61 "Star Trek" helmsman 62 Blather, and a phonetic hint to the four other longest answers 65 "The Time Machine" race 66 Gave an address 67 Foul mood 68 Director Gus Van __ 69 Laundry blemish 70 Red and Coral, but
THE SUN
not pink Down 1 Reading lights 2 Underway, to Sherlock 3 TV, radio, newspapers, etc. 4 "Great!" 5 Interest rate fig. 6 Short-lived Egypt-Syr. alliance 7 __ del Rey: L.A. beach community 8 Roswell crash victim, supposedly 9 Stretch the truth 10 "... bombs bursting __" 11 Protective river embankment 12 Clear from the blackboard 15 Hitches 18 Temporary calm 22 Composer Ned 24 Sacred choral piece 26 Volcanic output 28 Latin "I love" 29 French article 30 Rock's Fleetwood __ 31 Tropical food that has a five-point shape when sliced 33 U.K. singer Rita __ 34 Intensify 36 Hot time on the Riviera 37 Cartoon frame
38 La-la lead-in 40 Square root of neuf 41 Western treaty gp. 46 "Trick" joints 48 Declare openly 49 Exodus leader
50 Throat dangler 51 Serious criminal 52 Subs at the office 53 "Hop __": Dr. Seuss book 55 In a foul mood
56 "Stormy Weather" singer Lena 57 Mumbai's land 58 Twitter updates 63 Ring ref's decision 64 To this point
29
30
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 ANNOUNCEMENT: Who wants to play bridge outside on the patio, or in the park, social distanced and face-masked, Call Kathleen at 314-324-5921 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.
CARPET CLEANING QUALITY COUNTS. CARPET cleaning. Upholstery cleaning. Tile & grout cleaning. Island's favorite cleaner. Manatee Chamber Member. Great price/free estimates. Call 941-7561082
CLEANING SERVICE THC CLEANING : Residential, Commercial, Rentals, VRBO. Professional and Reliable. Call 941-756-4570
COMMERCIAL SALES, RENT & LEASE
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
MR AJ AMI Maintenance and Repairs- All Jobs-Anna Maria Island 941-705-1793 Licensed/ Insured aj@mrajllc.com
LANDSCAPING & LAWN CARE
RENOVATION SPECALIST ALL carpentry repairs, Wash Family Construction, locally owned and operated CBC 1258250 Call 941-7250073.
R. GAROFALO’S Interlocking brick pavers, driveways, patios, pool decks. Free estimates. Licensed & Insured. Call Rafael 941-778-4823 or Veronik 941-526-7941
KERN CONSTRUCTION NEW Homes & Remodel. Design/Build. Since 1968. License # CBC 1261150. Call Mike Kern 941-7781115
STRAIGHT SHOT LANDSCAPE. Specializing in Old Florida Seashell driveways and scapes. Also Rock, Mulch, & Soil. Free estimates. Call Shark Mark 941-301-6067
MASTER CARPENTER. Decks-Docks-FencingStairs & Railing. Free Estimates. Handyman Work. Call Richard 941448-3571 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. ISLE TILE EXPERT INSTALLATION of floors, custom showers, backsplash, deck/lanai. Licensed and insured. References available. Call Chris at 941-3028759 please visit website: isletileservices.com
4 UNIT RESORT style 4-plex: $1,999,900 Holmes Beach fixer upper with View of beach on Gulf Dr. Duplex Near Beach Totally renovated near Beach $795,000. Island Real Estate Call Alan Galletto 941-232-2216
“HAMMERED HOMES” (SAVING HOMES SINCE 1984) Handyman services, renovations. Free Estimates & Consulting. Call before making decision, save money. 941-778-3206
FISHING CHARTERS
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.
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
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.
LOST & FOUND FOUND SUNGLASSES at 77TH Street parking lot in Holmes Beach text 613401-2318 Contact Tim
MOVING & STORAGE MARTIN’S MOVING YOUR Island movers! Offering dependable, competitive rates. No hidden costs. 941-809-5777.
PAINTING & WALLCOVERING PAINT! PAINT! AND MORE 28 years of experienced interior/exterior custom painting. Pressure cleaning, drywall repairs and texture finishes. Many Island references. Please call Neil for free estimates. 941-812-0507 “WIZARD OF WALLS” Established 1980 Prompt quality service. Paperhanging/removal Faux finishes. Interior painting. Mary Bell Winegarden 941-794-0455
MARCH 10, 2021
PROFESSIONAL PAINTING SERVICES. Prompt & Reliable. Island Resident. Quality Workmanship. Interior/Exterior. Also minor repairs & carpentry. Free written detailed estimates. Bill Witaszek 941-307-9315 CUSTOM PAINTING, Residential-Commercial, Interior/Exterior Professional quality work for over 40 years. Free estimates. Call Larry at 941-400-8754. References available.
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.
REAL ESTATE HOMES & CONDOS FOR SALE GULF FRONT CONDOS Vista Grande, WestWinds– CANAL FRONT HOME Holmes Beach –DUPLEXES & MORE Island Real Estate ASK big Alan Galletto 941-232-2216 IMMACULATE WATERFRONT HOME 520 Kumquat Dr. 4BD/5BA 3928sf Coastal Beauty! Prime location on AMI. $2,750,000 Call Charles Buky Coldwell Banker 941-228-6086 HOLMES BEACH 4BR/3.5BA home for sale. 1 ½ blocks from Beach. $1,399,000. Call 724-263-6390
LOOKING FOR A highly motivated real estate broker to buy or sell your next home? Darcie Duncan, Broker Duncan Real Estate a lifelong island resident bringing success to her customers for 30 years. Proven track record brings you results! 941-725-1589 REALTOR FOR HIRE. BUYING OR SELLING on AMI? 17 years experience & USAF Veteran. Call Kelly Gitt Keller Williams Realty today 941-799-9299.
1973 MOBILE HOME: REMODELED interior 2020, new insulation, vinyl roof with transferable warranty, flooring, windows, kitchen-bath, on-demand hot water unit, exterior doors, window shades and lighting. Fully furnished - dedicated parking space $98,500. (Located the Sandpiper Resort 55+ community co-op mobile home park) No land share. Call Erik for appointment 813-6793561 BY OWNER: 1BR/1.5BA end unit villa w/carport at 4418 Mt. Vernon Dr. in Mt. Vernon on Sarasota Bay, a 55+ community 5 minutes from AMI gulf beaches. The villa is cheery and bright. Extensively updated, including: hardwood floors, tiled baths, breakfast bar, birch kitchen cabinets, stove w/microwave above, dishwasher, kitchen and bath fixtures, and fans. Lots of closet space, storage, outside utility room. New A/C system installed 07/20. Mt. Vernon is an active senior community with many social clubs and activities, a clubhouse, pool, sauna, tennis, shuffleboard, walking/biking paths, fishing, woodworking shop, and more. Free boat docks and kayak/ RV/trailer storage subject to availability. OFFERED AT $162,500. To View Call 727-479-4919 or 303-7257160
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. 1BR/1BA DUPLEX in Holmes Beach. Lawn care included. First, last and security deposit required. $1175/mo. Contact A Paradise Realty 941-778-4800 COZY COTTAGE SANDPIPER 55+ Resort. 1 ½ minute walk to Beach or Bay. 1BR/1BA. Washer/ dryer For Sale or Rent. Call 941251-4767. Leave number on machine.
FREE
HOME DELIVERY
Call for Details
778-3986
www.amisun.com
MARCH 10, 2021
BUSINESS & SERVICE DIRECTORY HOME IMPROVEMENT
HOME IMPROVEMENT
THE SUN
Call today to place your ad: 941-778-3986 PET SITTING
PAINTING
TRANSPORTATION
RENTAL WANTED SEEKING AMI ANNUAL RENTAL Call Kelly Gitt Keller Williams Realty 941799-9299
RENTALS: SEASONAL & VACATION TIFFANY PLACE Gulf Front Condo for Rent Incredible views from living room and master bedroom. 2BR/2BA Green Real Estate Call 941-778-0455
SEASONAL RENTAL in PALMA SOLA. 3BR/2BA weekly or monthly rates. Contact Barb Grace 941201-2190 CONDOS AVAILABLE 1BR & 2BR on Anna Maria Island, March 27 thru season. Large pool, beach access, free WiFi, $700/$800/$900 a wk. redekercondosonami. com Tim 941-704-7525
TRANSPORTATION AMI TAXI metered-on-callcards accepted. Airport: Tampa $95, Sarasota $40, Clearwater $85, Orlando $195. Call 941-447-8372 or 941-447-8376. amitaxi4u@ gmail.com, www.amitaxi. com
31
ANYTIME TRANSPORTATION to all Airports, Casino, etc. Tampa $70. Sarasota $35. Pets welcome. Very dependable. Reasonable rates. Contact Jeanne. 941-779-5095 AIRPORT RIDES- Tampa, St. Pete, Sarasota. Mask & gloves provided. Reasonable rates! Call or text Anna 941-932-1600
32
THE SUN
www.amisun.com
MARCH 10, 2021