- Named Best Florida Newspaper In Its Class -
VOL 22 No. 24
March 23, 2022
JOE HENDRICKS | SUN
Heritage Day Hoosegow! JOE HENDRICKS | SUN
During the Anna Maria Island Historical Society’s Heritage Day Festival, Anna Maria Mayor Dan Murphy surrenders to ceremonial “capture” by Privateer Roger “HooDat” Murphree, above, and is then confined at the Old City Jail, right. Story and photos on Page 3.
Bidding opens for Pine Avenue improvements The city commission currently has no plans to eliminate 50 parallel parking spaces along Pine Avenue. BY JOE HENDRICKS SUN CORRESPONDENT | jhendricks@amisun.com
ANNA MARIA – City officials are issuing a request for proposals (RFP) seeking bids for the installation of new sidewalks, crosswalks and lights along Pine Avenue. The proposed safety improvements are the cornerstone of the city’s Reimagining Pine Avenue efforts. During the March 17 work meeting, the Anna Maria City Commission authorized the issuance of an RFP that provides interested construction firms with about 30 days to submit their sealed bids. After reviewing the submitted bids, the commission will select
INSIDE NEWS CALENDAR OUTDOORS RESTAURANTS REAL ESTATE SPORTS CROSSWORD
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a preferred contractor and make some additional design decisions.
SIDEWALKS
The new sidewalks will either be constructed of pervious brick pavers or continuous stretches of rubberized Flexi-Pave material made from recycled tires. The bid proposals are to include brick paver sidewalks and the FlexiPave alternative available in several colors. Drainage elements will be installed below and beside the new sidewalks regardless of which surface material is selected. During Thursday’s meeting, the commission debated whether the new sidewalks would be 6 feet wide, or 5 feet wide as previously recommended by project engineer Gerry Traverso. As requested, Traverso provided the SEE PINE AVENUE, PAGE 36
brings tourists, family and banana French toast. In Food & Wine. 31 MARCH
Anna Maria Island, Florida
JOE HENDRICKS | SUN
Repairs, questions continue at Piney Point As another leak is under repair at Piney Point, state officials evaluate engineering plans to close the plant. BY CINDY LANE SUN STAFF WRITER | clane@amisun.com
PALMETTO – The Florida Department of Environmental Protection (FDEP) is scrutinizing proposed engineering plans to close wastewater ponds at Piney Point. The agency is requesting more information from the court-appointed receiver assigned to oversee the permanent closure of the former phosphate plant, which dumped 215 million gallons of contaminated water into Tampa Bay a year ago. The wastewater was stored in a pond dug into the top of an eightstory-tall gypsum stack that FDEP of-
ficials feared could collapse and flood surrounding homes and businesses. The pond’s capacity was roughly 500 million gallons of contaminated water. FDEP approved the March and April discharge, which spread throughout Tampa Bay and Sarasota Bay. The water contained nitrogen and phosphorus pollution, which worsened a bloom of the toxic algae red tide that lasted from April to November, causing fish kills and respiratory irritation. The state agency last week asked Piney Point receiver Herbert Donica for more details on how the contaminated water remaining in the stack system will be moved to a deep injection well, and how the stormwater management system is expected to perform. The 3,300-foot-deep well is now under construction near the plant at SEE PINEY POINT, PAGE 35
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Heritage Day celebrates Anna Maria’s past The Heritage Day festivities raised more than $700 for the Historical Society BY JOE HENDRICKS SUN CORRESPONDENT | jhendricks@amisun.com
ANNA MARIA – The Anna Maria Island Historical Society hosted another successful Heritage Day celebration last week. The annual festival was held on the Anna Maria Island Historical Museum grounds in Anna Maria on Tuesday, March 15. The event began at 9 a.m. and continued until 2 p.m. Heritage Day featured crafters and craft displays, a children’s scavenger hunt that took them through the crafters’ area, tours of the Historical Museum and historic Belle Haven Cottage, guest authors, live music, strawberry shortcake sales, ice cream sales, a food truck and the ceremonial capture, incarceration and release of Anna Maria Mayor
JOE HENDRICKS | SUN
Heritage Day introduced many visitors to the Historical Museum, above. The Belle Haven Cottage offers a glimpse of life in Anna Maria’s early days. Dan Murphy. Set up toward the rear of the museum grounds along the wooded shoreline, the Heritage Day crafters included Catwalk Weavings owner Donna Stansbury. “I am spinning sheep’s wool into yarn. I’ll ply two yarns together and weave it into blankets,” she explained while working at her old-fashioned, pedal-powered spinning wheel. While serving as a docent in the Belle Haven Cottage, Julie
Ray Spellissy pointed to one display and said, “This doctor’s kit belonged to Dr. Huth. He was the first doctor on the Island and his office was where The Doctor’s Office cocktail bar (in Holmes Beach) is now.” She also pointed out a wedding gown on display in the cottage’s lone bedroom that was worn by four generations of Island brides. At the scavenger hunt table, Historical Society board mem-
ber Valerie Wilson said, “The crowd is much larger than we expected and we’re delighted that people are having a good time. I hope they gain an appreciation for what they have here on the Island and with this museum complex.” Accompanied by her children at the scavenger hunt table, St. Louis resident Tiffany Kornmann said, “This is our first visit to Anna Maria Island. Mommy wanted to be
someplace warm.” Featuring Gene Zwolak, Ron Wedekind, Carolyn Wedekind, Howie Banfield and special guest Virginia Coggin, The Anna Maria String Band provided the musical entertainment. City Commission Chair Carol Carter and Historical Society Board member Barbara Murphy sold strawberry shortcake and additional baked goods prepared by Society volunteers. SEE HERITAGE DAY, PAGE 5
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ISLAND NEWS
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MARCH 23, 2022
IN BRIEF
Concert series closes with Felix Cavaliere’s Rascals This edition of the Bradenton Gulf Islands Concert Series is coming to a close on April 2 with a rocking performance by Felix Cavaliere’s Rascals at The Center of Anna Maria Island. Known for being one of the first rock bands in the world, the Rascals are headed by legendary singer/songwriter Felix Cavaliere. Some of the band’s biggest hits include “Groovin’,” “A Beautiful Morning,” “A Girl Like You” and “Good Lovin,’” which topped the Billboard charts in 1967. The evening promises to be one full of fun and feel-good tunes. The concert takes place indoors at The Center, 407 Magnolia Ave. in Anna Maria. Doors open at 6 p.m. and the music starts at 7 p.m. No outside food or drinks are allowed but The Sandbar will have a cash bar available inside. Street parking and valet parking are both available. Tickets are on sale now at www.centerami.org/events and start at $47 each.
AMI Chamber business card exchange The Anna Maria Island Chamber of Commerce will host a business card exchange featuring scholarship awards, Thursday, March 24 from 5-7 p.m. at LaPensee Plumbing, Pools, Air, 401 Manatee Ave., Holmes Beach. The cost is $5 for members and $10 for prospective members. Each year, the Chamber offers $1,000 scholarships to high school seniors in Manatee County. Thanks to continued community support of the Chamber’s annual events, scholarships are available to deserving graduates. For more information, visit www.annamariaislandchamber.org.
JOE HENDRICKS | SUN
The Coquina South boat ramp is scheduled to close on Monday, March 21.
Coquina South boat ramp temporarily closing BRADENTON BEACH – The Coquina South boat ramp in Bradenton Beach will be closed on Monday, March 21 and will remain closed while the public boating facility is renovated and expanded. According to a recent Manatee County press release,
the proposed improvements were designed to help meet the growing needs of boat ramp users. The ramp and docks will be completely closed and fenced off until the work is completed, which is expected to last through October. “Due to the deconstruction and re-
building processes, no part of the facility will be available for use by boaters who are being invited to visit the Coquina North boat ramp located approximately a half-mile north at 1507 Gulf Drive S.,” according to the press release.
Celebrate 40 years at the Island Library The Friends of the Island Library are celebrating 40 years of friendship with a party for the community. The library’s doors open at 5 p.m., March 23, for the 40thanniversary celebration with a ribbon-cutting by the Anna Maria Island Chamber of Commerce, a greeting from Manatee County commissioners, a proclamation by Holmes Beach Mayor Judy Titsworth and the unveiling of the Friends’ gift to the library in celebration of the occasion. Attendees can enjoy fun activities and demonstrations for all ages, along with cake and make-and-take goody bags for kids. The event is open to everyone. The library is at 5701 Marina Drive in Holmes Beach.
Start the weekend with pancakes Start the weekend off right this Saturday, March 26 with a pancake breakfast at Roser Church. From 8-11 a.m. enjoy pancakes, sausage, hot syrup, melted butter, biscuits and gravy, applesauce and more for $7 per person. Kids under the age of five eat free. Each breakfast comes with your choice of coffee, juice or tea. The pancake breakfast will be in the Roser fellowship hall at 512 Pine Ave. in Anna Maria. After breakfast, diners are invited to walk across the street to the Roser Guild Thrift Shop, open from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m., to see all of the bargains available. Volunteers are needed for the pancake breakfast. To see what shifts and jobs are available, or to sign up, go online to https://www.signupgenius.com/ go/4090f49ada822aaff2-pancake7.
Hit-and-run case goes to trial BY KRISTIN SWAIN SUN STAFF WRITER | kswain@amisun.com
MANATEE COUNTY – The trial for a Holmes Beach woman accused of leaving the scene of a crash that resulted in a death is scheduled to start more than a year after the traffic accident occurred. Cierra Shannon, a 28-year-old Holmes Beach resident, is charged with a felony in the death of 83-year-old Madelyn Dakin. The incident occurred just after 7 p.m. on Feb. 10, 2021, on Gulf Drive near
the Holmes Beach city limits with Bradenton Beach. Dakin was attempting to cross Gulf Drive outside of a crosswalk and was Shannon struck by a vehicle. The vehicle, identified by the city’s license plate reader cameras, belonged to Shannon. Multiple witnesses told police they saw a woman matching Shannon’s description approach the victim, shake her, ask for help and then
get in the vehicle and leave the scene of the incident. Witnesses later identified Shannon in a lineup as the woman at the accident scene. Dakin was pronounced dead at the crash scene. Shannon turned herself into police on Feb. 11, 2021. Attorney Ronald Filipkowski entered a plea of not guilty on Shannon’s behalf Feb. 15, 2021. Shannon’s jury trial has been assigned to Manatee County Circuit Court Judge Lon Arend and is scheduled to begin at 9 a.m. on April 4.
MARCH 23, 2022
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HERITAGE DAY: Celebrates Anna Maria’s past FROM PAGE 3
Carter said Hometown Desserts owner Cindy Tutterow provided the shortcake, while the fresh strawberries, prepared by Historical Society volunteers, were purchased from the Tillman fruit stand on Cortez Road. “We’re having a great time. We’ve got lots of visitors and the shortcake sales are fantastic.” Carter said. According to Barbara Murphy, the strawberry shortcake sales raised $530 for the Historical Society. The fundraising activities also included raffle ticket sales and the sale of books, T-shirts and other items featured in the museum gift shop.
MAYOR CAPTURED
Armed with a pirate’s sword, Anna Maria Island Privateer Roger “HooDat” Murphree captured the mayor in his office at city hall. “Sir, you’re now a prisoner of the Privateers,” Murphree told the mayor, who was then transported to the museum grounds, shackled and placed in the Old City Jail
JOE HENDRICKS | SUN
Gene Zwolak, Ron Wedekind, Virginia Coggin, Carolyn Wedekind and Howie Banfield performed as The Anna Maria String Band. until enough ransom was raised to release him. Privateer Ron “Candyman” Fisher said, “We’re helping the Historical Society. It’s something we do every year. The Privateers have been on Anna Maria Island for 50 years now. We’re part of the city’s history and
we want to help. One guy just threw in $20 to keep the mayor in jail.” “I now know what it’s like to be an exhibit in a zoo,” the mayor joked. On a more serious note, the mayor said, “It’s a great event. The Historical Society plays an impor-
tant part in our community. They provide great introspect on the city’s past and that gives people a greater appreciation of the city and its history.” Mayor Murphy’s capture and release raised $110 for the Historical Society. Heritage Day visitors included a group of students from the Down by the Bay homeschool group. Founded by Brooke Svoboda, the homeschooling group meets weekly at the nearby CrossPointe Fellowship church. “We wanted them to learn about the museum and the history of the Island; and Pastor Ed Moss gave a talk to the kids about what his life was like growing up on the Island,” Svoboda said. In addition to touring the museum, the homeschoolers also visited the mayor in jail. During the event’s final hour, Barbara Murphy, the mayor’s wife, said, “It’s been a successful and fun event. Our volunteers have done a super job and the city has been so cooperative in helping us.”
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The Anna Maria Island Sun Staff Publishers Mike Field Maggie Field Editor/CEO Mike Field Layout Ricardo Fonseca Reporters Cindy Lane Joe Hendricks Kristin Swain Jason Schaffer Columnists Louise Bolger Outdoors Editor Rusty Chinnis Advertising director Shona Otto Ad assistant Pamela Lee Classified ads Bob Alexander Graphics Elaine Stroili Ricardo Fonseca Digital/Social Media Editor Cindy Lane Accounting Leslie Ketchum Distribution Bob Alexander Tony McNulty Connor Field Contributors Tom Vaught Steve Borggren Monica Simpson
Drop us a line Got an opinion, a complaint or a compliment? Is there something you need to get off your chest? Send us a letter to the editor and have your say. There are a couple of ways to do it. The easiest and most direct is to email The Sun at news@amisun.com. Remember to put Letter to the Editor in the subject field. Or you can snail-mail a letter to us at The Anna Maria Island Sun,
P.O. Box 1189, Anna Maria, FL 34216. Letters should be kept to 300 words or less and must contain your name and the city in which you reside. Personal attacks and obscene language will not be printed. The Sun reserves the right to edit letters for length or content.
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ON THE AGENDA
MARKYOUR CALENDAR
ANNA MARIA
WEDNESDAY, MARCH 23
Please visit www.cityofbradentonbeach.com or contact city hall for more information. April 6, 9:30 a.m. – Community Redevelopment Agency meeting
Beach market, Coquina Beach, 2650 Gulf Drive S., Bradenton Beach, 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Tortoise Talk, Robinson Preserve, 1704 99th St. N.W., Bradenton, 3:30 p.m. AMI Chamber ribbon cutting, Island Branch Library, 5701 Marina Drive, Holmes Beach, 5 p.m. Friends of the Island Library 40th Anniversary Celebration Party, Island Branch Library, 5701 Marina Drive, Holmes Beach, 5 p.m. Everyone is welcome to attend Richard Marx in concert, The Center, 407 Magnolia Ave., Anna Maria, doors at 6 p.m., concert starts at 7 p.m. Tickets on sale at centerami.org/events
HOLMES BEACH
THURSDAY, MARCH 24
10005 GULF DRIVE FOR INFORMATION, CALL 941-708-6130
Please visit www.cityofannamaria.com or contact city hall for more information. March 24, 9:30 a.m. – Local Construction Regulation board meeting March 24, 6 p.m. – City Commission meeting
BRADENTON BEACH
107 GULF DRIVE N. FOR INFORMATION, CALL 941-778-1005
5801 MARINA DRIVE FOR INFORMATION, CALL 941-708-5800
Please visit www.holmesbeachfl. org or contact city hall for more information. March 23, 9 a.m. – Clean Water Ad-Hoc committee work session March 30, 10 a.m. – Parks and Beautification committee meeting April 6, 5 p.m. – Planning Commission meeting
RoserRobics, Roser Church, 512 Pine Ave., Anna Maria, 9:30 a.m., no cost but donations welcome. Tree Tots: Color, Robinson Preserve Nest, 840 Ninth Ave. N.W., Bradenton, 10 a.m. Sunshine Stitchers knit and crochet, Island Branch Library, 5701 Marina Drive, Holmes Beach, 2 p.m. Register online at manateelibrary.libcal.com/event/8511521 AMI Chamber Business Card
Exchange and Scholarship Presentation, LaPensee Plumbing Pools & Air, 401 Manatee Ave., Holmes Beach, 5 p.m., $5 for members or $10 for potential members. Reserve online annamariaislandchamber.org Thursdays in Paradise Stroll featuring local art, music and food, Bridge Street, Bradenton Beach, 5-8 p.m. Bingo, Annie Silver Community Center, 103 23rd St. N., Bradenton Beach, 6 p.m.
FRIDAY, MARCH 25
Forty Carrots, Island Branch Library, 5701 Marina Drive, Holmes Beach, 10 a.m. Register online manateelibrary. libcal.com/event/8486857 Mahjong Club – Experienced Players, Island Branch Library, 5701 Marina Drive, Holmes Beach, 11:30 a.m. Register online manateelibrary.libcal.com/event/8486620 Twilight 5K and 10K, Robinson Preserve, 1704 99th St. N.W., Bradenton, 5:30 p.m. Register online at raceroster.com/ events/2022/38170/2022-robinsonpreserve-twilight-5k-and-10k-run
SATURDAY, MARCH 26
Robinson Runners, Robinson Preserve, 1704 99th St. N.W., Bradenton, 8 a.m.
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Pancake breakfast, Roser Church, 512 Pine Ave., Anna Maria, 8-11 a.m., $7 per person Saturday mornings at the NEST, Robinson Preserve Mosaic Nest, 840 Ninth Ave. N.W., Bradenton, 9 a.m. to noon. Face masks required. Master Gardener Tour, Perico Preserve, 11700 Manatee Ave. W., Bradenton, 9-11 a.m. Salt marsh planting, Robinson Preserve, 1704 99th St. N.W., Bradenton, 9 a.m. to noon. Music on the Porch, Florida Maritime Museum, Bratton Store porch, 4415 119th St. W., Cortez, 2-4 p.m. Families Flock Together, Florida Maritime Museum, 4415 119th St. W., Cortez, 2 p.m.
SUNDAY, MARCH 27
Master Gardener volunteer day, Robinson Preserve, 1704 99th St. N.W., Bradenton, 9 a.m. Beach market, Coquina Beach, 2650 Gulf Drive S., Bradenton Beach, 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.
TUESDAY, MARCH 29
Farmer’s market, City Pier Park, 103 N. Bay Blvd., Anna Maria, 8:30 a.m. to 2 p.m. RoserRobics, Roser Church, 512 Pine Ave., Anna Maria, 9:30 a.m., no cost but donations welcome.
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Family story time, Island Branch Library, 5701 Marina Drive, Holmes Beach, 10 a.m. Register online manateelibrary.libcal.com/event/8486818 Mahjong for Beginners, Island Branch Library, 5701 Marina Drive, Holmes Beach, 11:30 a.m. Register online at manateelibrary.libcal. com/event/8486601 One-on-one tech help, Island Branch Library, 5701 Marina Drive, Holmes Beach, 2-3:30 p.m.
WEDNESDAY, MARCH 30
Beach market, Coquina Beach, 2650 Gulf Drive S., Bradenton Beach, 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Tortoise Talk, Robinson Preserve, 1704 99th St. N.W., Bradenton, 3:30 p.m. Paint and Sip, The Center, 407 Magnolia Ave., Anna Maria, 6:30 p.m., $45 for members or $55 for non-members. Pre-registration required at culture@centerami.org or 941-778-1908
THURSDAY, MARCH 31
RoserRobics, Roser Church, 512 Pine Ave., Anna Maria, 9:30 a.m., no cost but donations welcome. Seaside Quilters, Island Branch Library, 5701 Marina Drive, Holmes Beach, 10 a.m. Reserve online manateelibrary.libcal.com/ event/8486586
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MARCH 23, 2022
Springfest features art, entertainment The annual Springfest art festival in Holmes Beach showcased the best of art and handcrafted items from both local and visiting artists. BY JASON SCHAFFER SUN CORRESPONDENT | jschaffer@amisun.com
HOLMES BEACH - The 34th Annual Springfest Fine Arts & Fine Crafts Festival returned to an appreciative crowd at City Field March 19-20. The event is touted by organizers as a combination of people, education, entertainment and food, where you can find amazing items, handcrafted and offered for sale by talented artists. Sponsored by the Anna Maria Island Art League, this year’s event featured 80 artists showcasing everything from oil paintings to wood carvings. The event also featured live music and plenty of food, making it a great way to spend a beautiful spring afternoon. “We are here from New York and had no idea this was happening this weekend. I told my husband we would check it out if we could find a parking spot,” said Linda Minardi, who attended with her husband, Walt. “We found a spot and are happy we did. We had some amazing food and
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Above left, Cynthia Walston, of Lutz, took Best in Show at Springfest in Holmes Beach. Above right, this painting by Bradenton School of the Arts ninth-grader, Dariana Garcia, took second place in the children’s division. bought a couple of nice pieces to take home and remember how much we love Anna Maria Island.” Springfest is a juried show for both adults and children. Prizes were $450 for Best in Show, $250 for Awards of Distinction and $100 for Awards of Merit. This year's winners included: • Best in Show - Cynthia Walston (oil painting)
• Award of Distinction - John Cheer (ceramic/glass fuse) • Award of Distinction - Ron Deel (oil painting) • Award of Merit - Kowena Suckstorf (glass) • Award of Merit - Maureen Abdullah (jewelry) • Award of Merit - Jay Canterbury (photography)
The Anna Maria Art League is a nonprofit organization dedicated to fostering the arts on the Island. In addition to classes, funds from the festival underwrite the operation of the art center, exhibits, and a variety of programs for the community. Springfest is a major source of the organization’s annual fundraising. For more information, visit the league's website, www.islandartleague.org.
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MARCH 23, 2022
Water taxi, clams on the agenda The Anna Maria City Commission will meet Thursday, March 24 at 6 p.m. During the meeting, the commission and
Bradenton Area Convention & Visitors Bureau Director Elliott Falcione will discuss Manatee County’s efforts to create a water taxi system from downtown Bradenton to Anna Maria Island, with
potential stops in Anna Maria and Bradenton Beach. The commission is expected to make a final decision on Ed Chiles’ $50,000 clam and seagrass restoration project funding request.
The commission will be presented with the second and final reading of an ordinance that would amend the city’s comp plan on the determination of a property’s buildable
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area. The commission will receive from Mayor Dan Murphy an update on the planning process for the Mote Marine educational outreach center to be installed on the City Pier. Thursday’s
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meeting is open to the public and can also be attended and participated in via telephone by calling 1-929-205-6099 and entering the meeting ID: 85392000280.
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MARCH 23, 2022
AMI Garden Club hosts ‘Paradise Found’ flower show Proceeds from the annual flower show help fund AMI Garden Club activities. BY JOE HENDRICKS SUN CORRESPONDENT | jhendricks@amisun.com
ANNA MARIA – By all accounts, this year’s Anna Maria Island Garden Club flower show was the club’s biggest and best show yet. Featuring flower and plant arrangements designed by garden club members, the two-hour show took place Wednesday, March 16 in the Fellowship Hall at Roser Memorial Community Church in Anna Maria. Show director Ginger Huhn developed this year’s Paradise Found theme and the 10 categories that included Sea Shells, Sunrise/Sunset, Bridges, Paradise (using exotic flowers), Au Natural (using native plants or flowers), Drifting Along (using driftwood), Under Water Beauty, Swaying Plants (using palms), Horticulture, Potted Plants and Sunny Beaches (fairy gardens featuring sand). “I was thinking about how wonderful this Island is, so I incorporated bridges, seashells, sunrise, sunset and the natural plants and trees we have here,” Huhn said. This year’s show included more than 70 entries. “This is the largest show we’ve ever had. As you can see, the interpretations are widespread,” Huhn said. Some of the flowers, plants and other natural elements were grown by club members and some were purchased. The show focused on how the elements were arranged. Upon arrival, attendees were given 10 tickets and asked to place one ticket beside their favorite arrangement in each category. The arrangements with the most tickets per category were deemed People's Choice Award winners and small prizes were awarded. “This is new. We’ve had judges in the past that would judge the different categories,” Huhn said. The show featured a silent auction that allowed attendees to bid on the arrangements offered for auction, with some arrangements not offered for auction at the request of those who designed them. Proceeds from the silent auction will help pay for AMI Garden Club activities. “We’ll use the money for beautification, education and charitable giving," said club member and past president Zan Fuller. "We have some big projects in the making. We’re looking to work with all three cities on Anna Maria Island because they all support the garden club. SEE GARDEN CLUB, PAGE 15
JOE HENDRICKS | SUN
Above, AMI Garden Club members hosted and participated in the annual flower show. Left, Tina Wolfe’s “A Bridge to Peace” arrangement was a People’s Choice award winner. Below left, this arrangement was entered in the Sunny Beaches category. Below, featuring roses, this arrangement was entered in the Under Water Beauty category.
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MARCH 23, 2022
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Wit, wisdom and wine shine at Center event The Tour of Homes may be gone but the wine event taking its place is a definite hit. BY KRISTIN SWAIN SUN STAFF WRITER | kswain@amisun.com
ANNA MARIA – The Center of Anna Maria Island is changing up its events and its newest entry, a wine tasting with friends, is a hit with attendees. The inaugural Wine Tasting with Center Friends, an evening featuring the wines, wit and wisdom of Thomas Jefferson, debuted March 19 with a soldout audience of more than 200 attendees. This first event, created by the same committee that organized the Tour of Homes for two decades at The Center, paid homage to the Tour while getting attendees excited for the future of new events helping to bring community to the Island while raising funds for the nonprofit Center. While the COVID-19 pandemic canceled the 2020 Tour of Homes and eventually brought the long-standing Tour to an end, the first of an annually planned wine tasting event honored the Tour by raffling off the 20th and final quilt and featured a miniature version of the Tour’s boutique. The quilt, created by the Eyeland Needlers, was the final one of 20 quilts created to raise funds for The Center. In honor of her years of contribution to the Tour quilt, local artist Joan Pettigrew
KRISTIN SWAIN | SUN
More than 200 people attended the inaugural wine tasting event at The Center of Anna Maria Island. The final Tour of Homes quilt, right, was raffled off during the event. pulled the winning raffle ticket during the wine tasting event. The Wine Tasting also featured one-of-a-kind artwork created by local artists and up for silent auction. Artists who donated a piece of artwork for the silent auction include Joann Taylor Brown, Wooley Dutton, Emerson, Robert Johnson, Janet Kingan, Maro Lorimer, Jean Murray, Cathy Tobias, Barbara Truemper-Green and Joan Voyles. And while the art on display was a highlight, the real showstoppers of the new event were the seven wines tasted by attendees with sommelier and certified wine educator MaryKate Scott as the host for the evening. Guests were greeted at the door with a glass of Crement, a sparkling wine. This Brut was an Antoine Muller Blanc de Blanc. As the night progressed, Scott told the story of Thomas Jefferson’s travels and influences as a
young man up until he entered the White House and how those influences shaped the wine that he drank. Guests enjoyed three white wines and three red wines while also dining on charcuterie boards. The featured wines included a Les Dauphins Cotes du Rhone white wine, a Borsao Spanish Macabeo Chardonnay, an Affreschi Pinot Grigio, a Domaine de Briante of Brouilly Beaujolais, a Tomaiolo Chianti and a Lewis and Clark Merlot. All of the featured wines were available for sale at $25 per bottle or $100 for five bottles from the Olive Oil Outpost, with half of the proceeds going to The Center. Kelly Kary and the Olive Oil Outpost served as featured sponsors of the event with Coldwell Banker, Diamond Turf, Beach Bums, Tom Sanger Pool & Spa, Sato Real Estate and Moss Builders as table sponsors.
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SUBMITTED | MARY LANGE
Volunteers plant butterfly-friendly plants in the tiers of a fountain located at Veterans Park next to Holmes Beach City Hall.
Bringing the butterfly garden back Thanks to the efforts of a group of volunteers and the Holmes Beach Parks and Beautification Committee, the butterfly garden is coming back to its former location next to city hall. Located in what is now known as Veterans Park, the new butterfly garden was planted March 17 by several volunteers, including members of the committee, the Anna Maria Island Garden Club and others according to a plan laid out by Manatee County master gardeners. Plants for the butterfly garden were paid for by a $500 grant from the Florida Native Plant Society. Members of the parks committee hope that installing butterflyfriendly plants will bring the winged insects back to Holmes Beach and give the community a peaceful place to watch them feed and grow.
SUBMITTED | MARY LANGE
This group of volunteer gardeners is helping to bring the butterfly garden back to life in its previous location at Veterans Park in Holmes Beach. The butterfly-friendly plants going into the ground are meant to help feed the insects and give them a safe place to hide from predators.
MARCH 23, 2022
MARCH 23, 2022
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Scholarship deadline approaches
‛S YOUR COMFORT ZONE? WHERE
Time is running out for 2022 high school seniors to apply for the John van Zandt Scholarship. The scholarship, awarded through The Center of Anna Maria Island, provides tuition assistance from $2,500-$5,000 to graduating seniors seeking careers requiring certification, licensing or apprenticeship in a variety of trades. These include construction, plumbing, electrical, machinery, marine services technology, chef, cosmetology, medical coding, firefighters, law enforcement and others. Applicants must live or work on Anna Maria Island or have parents who work on the Island. For more information, or to apply, visit www. centerami.org/scholarship. The deadline to apply is April 12.
Find your inner artist at The Center Join instructor Angie Prindle for one of three upcoming paint and sip nights at The Center of Anna Maria Island. Prindle will provide step-by-step painting instruction while you sip your favorite wine and put paint to canvas to create your very own masterpiece to take home. All of your painting supplies are provided, bring your own wine, opener and snacks. Classes take place from 6:30-8 p.m. on March 30, April 13 and April 27. The cost is $45 for Center members or $55 for nonmembers. Pre-registration is required. For more information, or to register, email culture@centerami.org or call 941-778-1908.
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MARCH 23, 2022
Roser Church
“...a beautiful place to explore your faith...”
SUNDAY WORSHIP 8:30 AM or 10:00 AM IN PERSON in the Sanctuary Nursery • Children’s Church ONLINE • Watch LIVE or LATER
RoserChurch.com
Text ROSER to 22828 to receive the weekly eBulletin The CHAPEL is open during office hours for prayer and meditation 941-778-0414 • 512 Pine Ave, Anna Maria • FOLLOW us on Facebook @RoserChurch
KRISTIN SWAIN | SUN
WMFR celebrates two promotions Above, newly-promoted Battalion Chief Tyler MacDonald has his new badge pinned on his uniform by his wife during a March 15 ceremony at the West Manatee Fire Rescue administration building. Right, Lisa Sedillo celebrates her promotion to firefighter second class with her family at the West Manatee Fire Rescue meeting.
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MARCH 23, 2022
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GARDEN CLUB: Hosts ‘Paradise Found’ flower show FROM PAGE 10
The club has been in existence since 1953 and this flower show’s been in existence for several decades.” People’s Choice Award winner Tina Wolfe designed the “A Bridge to Peace” arrangement that received 113 votes, the most in the show. Her arrangement featured a wooden bridge and a Buddha statuette as centerpieces. “It’s actually a sushi bridge. A friend gave it to me and I never did anything with it,” Wolfe said. “When I saw the different categories, I decided to use that bridge to make something tranquil and peaceful. A friend of mine had this Buddha and these other pieces. The succulents and other flowers gave it a flowing, Zen feeling. I wanted a water garden with a creek on both sides, so I used marbles and a mirror. It all came together nicely.” Wolfe’s friend, Emily DiSammartino, provided some of the elements used in the arrange-
JOE HENDRICKS | SUN
Left, Kathy Donnar’s award-winning arrangement featured driftwood and orchids. Right, Dianne Phinney entered her arrangement in the Paradise category. ment, including the Buddha statuette from Hong Kong and the Saki cups her brother got in Japan while serving in the Navy. Dianne Phinney's arrangement featured sunflowers and sliced grapefruit. “There are actually two vases in there, with the smaller one in the center holding the flowers," Phinney said. "I cut
up grapefruit and lined the larger vase with it. I like the pink color. Some of the flowers I bought and some are from my yard. The Confederate Jasmin was growing on my fence.” Featuring dried fungi, Ginger Wyss entered her arrangement in the Au Natural category. “I was going to enter the
exotic flowers category using birds of paradise," Wyss said. "One of my birds broke so this is my second choice. I went in my box of dried plants, picked out what I had and put it together this morning.” The AMI Garden Club has 100 members and meets in the Fellowship Hall at noon on the second Wednesday of the
month. The club has a Facebook page that provides more information on their events and activities. On behalf of the garden club, Huhn has posted a series of “AMIGC Flower Arrange Tutorial” videos online at Vimeo.com. “You can go online and see the basics of making an arrangement,” Huhn said.
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MARCH 23, 2022
Pop icon readies to take Center stage Select Models Now
Parts & Services Available
Parts & Services Available
Tickets are still available to see Richard Marx live in concert at The Center. BY KRISTIN SWAIN SUN STAFF WRITER | kswain@amisun.com
ANNA MARIA ISLAND – The latest icon to take the stage at The Center of Anna Maria Island will take audience members back to those endless summer nights. Award-winning singer, songwriter and author Richard Marx takes the stage on Wednesday, March 23 at The ON FANS PRICED $299.99 & UP .99 $ Center as part of the Bradenton GulfINSTALL ON FANS PRICED $99 to $299 OR 29 SOME RESTRICTIONS APPLY. BRING THIS AD INTO STORE FOR DETAILS. PRIOR SALES Islands Concert Series presented by COMBINED WITH OTHER OFFERS. DAN'S FAN CITY, LLC LIC#EC13004528 EXCLUDED. NOT Bradenton Area Arts and Culture, The SUBMITTED Sandbar and Cedar Cove Resort and Richard Marx takes the stage at The Center for one night only on March 23. Cottages. Marx told The Sun that this would Better,” Marx said the audience at The that led him to write some of his most be his first trip to Anna Maria Island, Center can expect a night full of great popular songs, though Marx said it’s and it’s an experience that he’s lookmusic, fun stories and just a great time not just about the stories behind the ing forward to. hanging out together for a few hours. songs. And with one book under his “It’s one of the few places that I “My goal every night is that people belt, Marx added that he may still haven’t been yet,” Marx said. “First go home feeling like they hung out have some more entertaining stories time’s a charm, hopefully.” with me for a couple of hours and that to tell that could one day make a After taking a two-year involuntary they kind of got to know me a little bit second book. For now, he’s focused on hiatus from performing due to the and that they laughed and that we just making music and getting back out on COVID-19 pandemic, Marx said he’s had fun together,” Marx said. “Now, the road. happy to be able to play for his fans more than ever, I feel like I have the His new album, “Songwriter,” is again and form a more personal conability to provide a two-hour escape due out in late summer 2022 and is a nection with the audience. from the world and reality and that’s a very different project for the Grammy ALSO AVAILABLE! Stepping back up on stage after two pretty valuable thing to be able to give award-winning singer and songwriter. years away from playing live was an somebody. I’m giving it to myself as “I love that process,” he said of the 3 FINISHES; emotional experience for Marx, who well at the same time.” recording process. “I love making up a LED LIGHT & REMOTE said he was a little nervous before the While at home during the pandemic, song in my head and hearing it come INCLUDED show began. “It turned into a two-and- Marx took time to play a few acoustic to life.” a-half-hour party,” he said of the show, shows available online. The pandemic After releasing more than a dozen something that he hopes to bring to also gave him the opportunity to pop studio albums, Marx said this one his performance at The Center. realize a career milestone outside of is a mash-up of four different types “They’re like my friends,” he said of the music industry – he became a best- of music that he loves – pop, country, the audience. “I’ve never enjoyed tour- selling author. rock and ballads spread across a ing more and I’ve never been more With his first book, “Stories to Tell,” 20-track, two-disc set. grateful to still be doing it, having Marx said it felt like less of a memoir “It’s all over the map and it’s all difpeople show up.” and more like a conversation about ferent kinds of songs,” he said, noting In addition to playing some of his some of his more entertaining life exthat there are five songs in each genre. best-known hits, including “Endless periences that he’s having with friends “It was really fun to make.” Summer Nights,” “Right Here Waitover a martini. The book illuminates To see Marx live, visit www.cening,” “Hazard” and “Should’ve Known some of the twists and turns in his life terami.org/events to purchase tickets.
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BUSINESS
ANTIQUE/COLLECTIBLE STORE GINNY’S & JANE E’S 9807 Gulf Drive Anna Maria, 778-3170
AUTO SERVICE HOLMES BEACH AUTOMOTIVE SERVICE 5333 Gulf Drive Holmes Beach, 779-0487
BAIT & TACKLE SHOP ANNIE’S BAIT & TACKLE 4334 127th St. W. Cortez, 794-3580
BANK HANCOCK WHITNEY BANK 5324 Gulf Drive Holmes Beach, 778-4900
BIKE RENTAL BEACH BUMS RENTALS
427 Pine Ave. Anna Maria, 778-3316
BOATING STORE WEST MARINE
Bradenton, 34208
CAR WASH BLUE DOLPHIN
505 Cortez Rd W Bradenton, 34207
CARPET CLEANER FAT CAT CARPET CLEANING
FLOOR COVERINGS WADE’S
3801 9th Ave W. Bradenton, 778-2882
2911 Cortez Rd W Bradenton, 34210 941-758-5049
CBD STORE LIVE NATURALLY
MARCH 23, 2022
HEAT & AIR ANTHONY’S HEATING AND COOLING 1614 20th St. E. Palmetto, 749-5307
FLORIST BLOOMS BY THE BEACH
HOME BUILDER WASH FAMILY CONSTRUCTION
GIFT SHOP IRENE’S RESORT WEAR
HOTEL/MOTEL COMPASS HOTEL
CONVENIENCE STORE ANNA MARIA GENERAL STORE AND DELI
GOLF CART RENTAL BEACH BUMS
JEWELRY STORE IRENE’S RESORT WEAR
DRY CLEANER COURTESY CLEANERS
GROCERY STORE PUBLIX SUPERMARKET
LIQUOR STORE HURRICANE HANKS LIQUOR
ELECTRICIAN ANTHONY’S HEATING AND COOLING
HAIR SALON SALT AND SCISSORS SALON
MANICURIST JESSICA
5337 Gulf Dr #200 Holmes Beach, 34217
2501 Gulf Drive Bradenton Beach, 778-2555
CLOTHING STORE IRENE’S RESORT WEAR
5308 Marina Drive Holmes Beach, 778-7605
503 Pine Ave. Anna Maria, 779-9200
7421 Manatee Ave. W. Bradenton, 794-5145
1614 20th St. E. Palmetto, 749-5307
FITNESS THE VILLAGE HEALTH @ WELLNESS
5308 Marina Drive Holmes Beach, 778-7605
427 Pine Ave Anna Maria, 778-3316
3900 East Bay Drive Holmes Beach, 778-5422
313C Pine Ave Holmes Beach, 961-4458
HARDWARE STORE TRUE VALUE
5324 Marina Drive Holmes Beach, 778-2811
nothing
brings people
together
like
good food
941.778.1515 | 111 South Bay Blvd | Anna Maria Island, FL.
407 72nd St Holmes Beach, 941-725-0073
12324 Manatee Ave W. Bradenton, 741-9700
5308 Marina Drive Holmes Beach, 778-7605
5344 Gulf Dr Holmes Beach, 941-779-2337
Salt and Scissors Salon 313C Pine Ave Holmes Beach, 961-4458 SEE READERS, PAGE 19
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MARCH 23, 2022
FROM PAGE 18
MARINA KEYES MARINA
5501 Marina Dr Holmes Beach, 941-778-1977
MEN’S APPAREL PINEAPPLE JUNCTION
425 Pine Ave Anna Maria, 941-216-4226
OUTDOOR SPORTS STORE AMI OUTFITTERS COASTAL GEAR & APPAREL 401 Pine Ave. Anna Maria, 254-4996
PACK & SHIP ISLAND MAIL & MORE
3230 East Bay Drive Holmes Beach, 778-1911
PAINTER RON WELDON WELDON CUSTOM PAINTING 4202 2nd Ave NW Bradenton, 941-714-0229
PEST CONTROL ANNA MARIA PEST CONTROL 11610 3rd Ave. E. Bradenton, 778-1630
PET GROOMING THE PAW SPA
5343 Gulf Drive Holmes Beach, 778-0885
PET STORE PETCO ANIMAL SUPPLIES 6757 Manatee Ave. W. Bradenton, 792-1295
PHARMACIST JOE – WALGREENS
3200 East Bay Drive. Holmes Beach, 778-0451
PHARMACY WALGREENS
3200 East Bay Drive Holmes Beach, 778-0451
PLUMBER AIR & ENERGY
555 6th Ave. W. Bradenton, 778-0773
POOL CLEANER RYAN HOGAN STAND UP POOLS POOL CONTRACTOR ROYAL POOLSCAPES
7282 55th Ave E Bradenton, 218-2150
REAL ESTATE ASSOCIATE JOHN DAMATO
Sato Real Estate Inc. 519 Pine Ave. Anna Maria, 778-7200
REAL ESTATE COMPANY SATO REAL ESTATE INC.
519 Pine Ave. Anna Maria, 778-7200
RENTAL COMPANY SATO REAL ESTATE INC.
519 Pine Ave. Anna Maria, 778-7200
RESORT ANNA MARIA ISLAND RESORTS The Tortuga Inn 1325 Gulf Drive Bradenton Beach, 778-6611
RETIREMENT COMMUNITY FREEDOM VILLAGE 6406 21st Ave W. Bradenton, 210-6153
SERVICE ORGANIZATION EASTER SEALS 350 Brown Ave Sarasota, 34243 355-7637
THE SUN
SERVICE STATION GROOMS AUTOMOTIVE
5608 Marina Dr Holmes Beach, 896-7898
SHOPPING CENTER ISLAND SHOPPING PLAZA 5414 Marina Dr Holmes Beach
SOUVENIR SHOP BRIDGE ST BAZAAR
107 Bridge St Bradenton Beach, 778-3443
SPA BODY & SOL SPA AND WELLNESS 9805 Gulf Dr Anna Maria, 941-650-5441
TRAVEL AGENCY SPLENDID ESCAPE 941-724-0508
WINDOW REPAIR GRAYHAWK WINDOWS
6008 Cortez Rd W Bradenton, 941-527-7222
WOMEN’S APPAREL IRENE’S RESORT WEAR
5308 Marina Drive Holmes Beach, 778-7605 SEE READERS, PAGE 20
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FROM PAGE 19
PEOPLE & PLACES ARCHITECT ALLISON KAFFKA & ASSOCIATES 5303 4th Ave W Bradenton
ARCHITECTURAL DESIGN EMILY ANNE SMITH LLC
527 74th St. Holmes Beach, 778-3113
ART GALLERY ISLAND GALLERY WEST
5368 Gulf Drive Holmes Beach, 778-6648
ATTORNEY NICK SATO
2071 Ringling Blvd. #400 Sarasota, 861-4400
BAND
Pam Ward
BAR & GRILL HARRY’S GRILL
9903 Gulf Drive Anna Maria, 567-5999
BARTENDER ABBY MONDO HARRY’S BAR & GRILL
9903 Gulf Dr. Anna Maria, 941-567-5999
BEACH COQUINA BEACH BOAT CAPTAIN AARON LOWMAN SEAFOOD SHACK
4110 127 St W Cortez, 941-465-8932
BUSINESS PERSON MIKE ZEPPI ANTHONY’S HEATING & COOLING 1614 20th St. E. Palmetto, 749-5307
CATERER MOLLY O’CONNOR TRAVELING GOURMET
Anna Maria, 405-7627
CHARITY ROSER CHURCH
512 Pine Ave Anna Maria, 778-0414
CHEF EZIO ISOLA BELLA ITALIAN EATERY 5904 Marina Dr Holmes Beach, 242-5309
CHIROPRACTOR ADJUST YOUR LIFE
10910 SR 70E Ste. #101 Lakewood Ranch, 799-7207
DENTIST FLORIDA DENTAL CENTERS
5215 Manatee Ave W Bradenton, 941-792-7887
DOCTOR STEPHEN PELHAM, M.D.
3909 East Bay Drive #100 Holmes Beach, 778-1007
EYE CARE EYE CENTER
65106 Manatee Ave W Bradenton, 941-795-2020
FINANCIAL PLANNER EDWARD JONES
JB Tucker 3226 East Bay Dr. Holmes Beach, 779-2499
FISHING CHARTER GRAHAM SLAM FISHING CHARTER 4628 119th St W Cortez, 779-4078
MARCH 23, 2022
INTERIOR DESIGN HOLLY LOGAN
1863 Irving St Sarasota, 952-9490
INDIVIDUAL ENTERTAINER STEVE ARVERY stevearvey@aol.com
MASSAGE THERAPY ALUNA WELLNESS
2219 Gulf Dr N Bradenton beach, 778-8400
PERSONAL TRAINER BREANNA NEWTON
Home Fitness by Bre
SCHOOL ANNA MARIA ELEMENTARY 4700 Gulf Drive Holmes Beach, 708-5525
SCHOOL TEACHER KIM WILDER
Gene Witt Elementary 200 Rye Rd E Bradenton
VETERINARIAN CONNOR BYSTROM PALMA SOLA ANIMAL CLINIC 6116 Manatee Ave W. Bradenton, 794-3275
SEE READERS, PAGE 28
MARCH 23, 2022
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Thank you Again this year for choosing my work as #1 Architectural Designer Readers’ Choice Award 2022. “I hold the pencil and each morning I ask God to guide it!” If it’s His will I plan to push my pencil for 25 more years, then I am going fishing!
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MARCH 23, 2022
! u o y k Than
Tacos
Burgers
Seafood
FAVORITE MARGARITA
FAVORITE MEXICAN RESTAURANT
www.WickedCantina.com
Live Music ~ Gulf View Dining ~ Full Parking BRADENTON BEACH ~ 101 7th St. North ~ Open Daily 7:30 am - 10 pm SARASOTA ~ 1603 N. Tamiami Trail ~ Open Daily 11 am - 10 pm
Happy Hour 12 - 5 Daily and ALL DAY Sunday
MARCH 23, 2022
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Island Gallery West 5368 Gulf Drive, Holmes Beach, AMI Voted Anna Maria Island’s Favorite Art Gallery!
2022
Thanks to all you wonderful art lovers and Sun readers that voted for Island Gallery West as your favorite local art gallery! Come visit us soon and see the best artwork the Island has to offer.
Open Tuesday - Sunday 10am-5pm islandgallerywest.com (941)778-6648
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MARCH 23, 2022
MARCH 23, 2022
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MARCH 23, 2022
THANK T HANK YO YOU U SO M MUCH! UCH!
Best Sub/Sandwich & Café on AMI
MARCH 23, 2022
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FROM PAGE 20
VETERINARIAN CLINIC DESOTO ANIMAL CLINIC 2910 Manatee Ave W Bradenton, 748-2637
VIEW SANDBAR RESTAURANT
100 Spring Ave Anna Maria, 778-0444
WAITER/WAITRESS MELISSA SMILEY UGLY GROUPER
5704 Marina Drive Holmes Beach, 778-4402
YOGA INSTRUCTOR SHARON MEIER THRIVE YOGA STUDIO
8819 Cortez Rd W Bradenton, 570-497-7801
FOOD & ENTERTAINMENT BAGEL SHOP PARADISE BAGELS & CAFÉ
3220 E. Bay Drive Holmes Beach, 779-1212
MARCH 23, 2022
BAKERY HOMETOWN DESSERTS
DELI SCOTT’S DELI
ITALIAN RESTAURANT ISOLA BELLA ITALIAN EATERY
BARBEQUE SMOQEHOUSE
FESTIVAL CORTEZ FISHING FESTIVAL
KEY LIME PIE HOMETOWN DESSERTS
507 Pine Ave. Anna Maria, 896-3167
1701 Gulf Drive N. Bradenton Beach, 242-5340
BREAKFAST GINNY’S & JANE E’S
9807 Gulf Drive Anna Maria, 778-3170
BURGER HARRY’S BAR & GRILL
9903 Gulf Drive Anna Maria, 567-5999
CAFÉ CHEESECAKE CUTIE
3324 E Bay Dr Holmes Beach, 779-2253
CANDY STORE THE FUDGE FACTORY
117 Bridge St Bradenton Beach, 281-2501
ASIAN RESTAURANT OCEAN STAR
902 S Bay Blvd Anna Maria, 251-6940
6000 Marina Dr. Unit D Holmes Beach, 778-3000
GERMAN RESTAURANT OLD HAMBURG SCHNITZELHAUS 3246 East Bay Drive Holmes Beach, 778-1320
GOLF COURSE KEY ROYALE GULF CLUB INC. 700 Key Royale Drive Holmes Beach, 778-3055
GROUPER SANDWICH ROD & REEL PIER
875 N Shore Dr Anna Maria, 778-1885
HEALTH FOOD STORE RICHARD’S FOODPORIUM 2601-B Manatee Ave W Bradenton, 749-0892
ICE CREAM SHOP TWO SCOOPS ICE CREAM 101 S. Bay Blvd. Anna Maria, 779-2422
5904 Marina Drive Holmes Beach, 242-5309
507 Pine Ave. Anna Maria, 896-3167
LIVE THEATER ISLAND PLAYERS
10009 Gulf Drive Anna Maria, 778-5755
MARGARITA WICKED CANTINA
101 7th St. N. Bradenton Beach, 281-2990
MEXICAN RESTAURANT WICKED CANTINA
101 7th St. N. Bradenton Beach, 281-2990
MOST ROMANTIC RESTAURANT BEACH BISTRO 6600 Gulf Drive Holmes Beach, 778-6444
NEW RESTAURANT THE PORCH
9707 Gulf Dr N. Anna Maria, 782-8683 SEE READERS, PAGE 29
MARCH 23, 2022
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NIGHT SPOT HARRY’S BAR & GRILL
9903 Gulf Drive Anna Maria, 567-5999
PIER ROD AND REEL PIER
875 North Shore Drive Anna Maria, 778-1885
PIZZA OMA’S PIZZA AND ITALIAN RESTAURANT 201 Gulf Drive North Bradenton Beach, 778-0771
PLACE TO SEE SUNSET SANDBAR RESTAURANT
100 Spring Ave W Anna Maria, 778-0444
RESTAURANT (OVERALL) THE WATERFRONT
111 S Bay Blvd. Anna Maria, 778-1515
MARCH 23, 2022
SEAFOOD RESTAURANT STARFISH 12306 6th Ave W Cortez, 794-1243
SPECIALTY COCKTAIL DR. OFFICE
5312 Holmes Blvd Holmes Beach, 213-9926
SPECIALTY GOURMET OCEAN STAR
902 S Bay Blvd Anna Maria, 251-6940
SUB/SANDWICH CHEESECAKE CUTIE
3324 E Bay Dr Holmes Beach, 779-2253
TAKEOUT HARRY’S BAR & GRILL
9903 Gulf Drive Anna Maria, 567-5999
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Thanks for voting us your Island favorite AGAIN!
This year in SIX categories!
MARCH 23, 2022
FOOD & WINE
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Morning Rush Brian Mathae HURRICANE HANKS
T
he month of March is always an exciting time around here. It’s one of the busiest months of the year for tourism on beautiful Anna Maria Island. When traffic slows and lines form, I remind myself how blessed we are to live in such a beautiful place. Like all things beautiful, this Island was meant to be shared. It may mean that we need to modify our movement and behaviors during the peak of season, but the benefits outweigh the inconveniences. The influx of tourists supports a much larger and much more vibrant restaurant and shopping experience than the local population alone could support. So, while it’s difficult right now to get into your
Banana French Toast Casserole ingredients
8 large eggs 1 lb whole loaf sourdough bread cut into 1-inch squares 6 bananas, chopped 2 cups whole milk 1/2 cup heavy cream 1/2 cup granulated sugar 1/4 cup brown sugar 2 tsp vanilla extract 1 1/2 tsp ground cinnamon
favorite restaurants like Hurricane Hanks, it’s an important time for the local restaurant industry to recover from the effects of Covid and get back on track. I’m very appreciative that we have an opportunity to look forward with confidence and once again save for the next rainy day. We are doing our best to welcome and accommodate locals and tourists alike. We are also fortunate that March brings our own family and friends to the Island for a visit. After these past few years, it’s nice to feel a hug from those you love. The house is a little fuller and we may have to time showers so we don’t run out of hot water but I think these are good problems to have. We also experience the challenges of taking a group out for a meal during the height of tourist season. We balance a few meals out with a few meals in. Today’s recipe is a great way to start your day with a meal in. It’s prepared the night before and baked in the morning. Your
Topping Ingredients
3/4 cup flour 3/4 cup brown sugar 1 tsp cinnamon 1/2 cup salted butter, cut into pieces
Directions
Grease a 9×13-inch casserole dish. Add the cubed bread to a large bowl and set aside. In another large bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, cream, sugars, vanilla extract and
SUBMITTED
guests will awake to the delicious smells and you will be a hero! I first made this years ago when we had many guests visiting and we hosted a brunch at home. One of the guests recently reminded me of it because he thinks back all the time about how much he enjoyed it. That’s about the best compliment someone can give me. Knowing food made them happy makes me happy! cinnamon. Pour the egg mixture over the bread chunks and add the chopped banana, then gently stir to combine everything. Pour the bread mixture into the prepared casserole dish and spread evenly in the pan. Cover the casserole and store in the fridge overnight. When ready to bake the casserole, preheat the oven to 350°F. Bake the casserole for about 35 minutes until a pick comes out clean. While baking the casserole, combine all
This item will be featured at Fifty Three Fifty The Pourhouse, our newest business venture. Final touches are being made and we are actively recruiting staff. Finding employees right now is a real challenge, and a greater one than I anticipated, but we will get there. If you love people, food and entertaining as much as we do, please come talk to us. It’s going to be fun!
the topping ingredients, except the butter in a bowl. Add the butter and press with a fork until a crumbly mixture forms. Remove the casserole from the oven and spread the topping mixture over the top of the casserole. Return it to the oven and bake an additional five minutes until the topping is golden brown. Remove from oven, cut into large squares and serve with syrup.
Now with two locations to serve you better Anna Maria Island & Longboat Key Whether you are looking for that perfect wine to compliment your meal or a fun new cocktail recipe, our knowledgeable staff are pleased to help.
5344 Gulf Drive, Holmes Beach (941) 779-2337
6854 Gulf of Mexico Drive, Longboat Key (941) 953-1835
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OUTDOORS
MARCH 23, 2022
All hands on deck Reel Time RUSTY CHINNIS
T
his past week I had the pleasure of fishing with Captain Scott Moore, Tampa Bay Waterkeeper board member Adam Fernandez and his two boys, AJ and Henry, ages 7 and 5. I’ve been a fisherman my whole life, having been fortunate to be raised by a father who enjoyed the outdoors and introduced me to fishing when I was 5 years old. During that day on the water, memories flooded back as I watched the boy’s enthusiasm and delight catching and releasing snook, trout and sheepshead. It also brought into clear focus why I commit time writing about working to protect water quality and habitat along the Suncoast. Often these days I can only wonder what kind of opportunities AJ and Henry will have when they grow up and what opportunities they might have to share time on the water with their sons or daughters. It’s times like this that bolster my resolve to protect this special resource. The fishing was good that day despite the high pressure and slick conditions we
RUSTY CHINNIS | SUN
Captain Scott Moore holds a snook that AJ Fernandez, left, and Henry Fernandez, right, collaborated on catching at Egmont Key. experienced on the backside of a front. We started on the east side of Egmont Key, where Henry and AJ landed snook and sheepshead. After catching several fish, we left what was becoming a very crowded area and crossed the bay to Rattlesnake Key on the south shore near the Skyway bridge. It didn’t take long before Moore had snook boiling at the back of the boat and AJ and Henry leaned into bent rods, filled with joyful enthusiasm, as
they reeled in snook after snook. As we passed rods to the boys and unhooked fish, the conversation turned to the unprecedented loss of seagrass in Tampa and Sarasota Bay. I have fished Rattlesnake Key many times over the years, and when I mentioned to Fernandez how thin the grass looked in areas and that it appeared to be missing in others, Moore responded, “I’ve been fishing this part of Tampa Bay for more than 50 years and
I would estimate that onethird of the grass has disappeared in just the last three years.” Suddenly it became clear that if AJ and Henry were to have a future of good fishing that it was time for “all hands on deck!” When I looked up the definition in Webster’s dictionary, I realized the definition perfectly described the situation “of, relating to, or being a situation in which every available person is needed or called
to assist.” The problem is that waiting might equal being too late. This amazing habitat that was a gift to us is slipping away. It’s not too late, but the clock is ticking. Everyone who values this resource needs to lend a hand and maybe most importantly, elect leaders who will work for the people and not for special interests. I’ve said it before but it’s worth repeating, don’t judge candidates by what they're promising to do to get elected, but instead how they’ve voted in the past. The information is public record and one of the best places I’ve found to vet politicians is at the website of the non-partisan League of Conservation Voters, www.lcv.org. I cast my vote for candidates who have a proven record of voting in support of the clean water I drink and fish in. While addressing water quality is most important, we need organizations like the Sarasota and Tampa Bay Estuary Programs, START, Sarasota Bay Watch, Tampa Bay Watch, Suncoast Waterkeeper, Tampa Bay Waterkeeper, Vote Water and All Clams on Deck to be spreading the word, educating young advocates and doing restoration work with fish, oysters and clams. I believe it rises to a moral obligation.
MARCH 23, 2022
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CAPTAIN RICK GRASSETT | SUBMITTED
Glen Runk, from Ste. Genevieve, Mo., caught this monster snook on CAL jigs with shad tails while fishing Gasparilla Sound with Capt. Rick Grassett recently.
Snook, trout action on grass flats CAPTAIN RICK GRASSETT
Spring is here and shallow flats are turning on! Anglers fishing with me, out of CB’s Saltwater Outfitters on Siesta Key, had good action catching and releasing numerous snook to 34” and trout to 24” in Gasparilla Sound and Sarasota Bay on DOA Lures recently. Fly anglers also scored with trout and pompano on Clouser flies on deep grass flats of Sarasota Bay. Keith McClintock, from Lake Forest, Ill., fished backcountry areas of Gasparilla Sound and Sarasota Bay on a couple of trips with me recently and had good action catching and releasing
several snook, trout and a couple of reds on CAL jigs with shad tails. Dave Smid, from Springfield, Mo., joined him in Gasparilla Sound on one trip and Glen Runk, from Missouri, fished Sarasota Bay with him on another trip and both got in on the action. Dave Reinhart, from Pittsfield, Mass., and Will Patterson, from Raleigh, N.C., fished Sarasota Bay with me recently and had good action catching and releasing snook and trout on CAL jigs with grubs and shad tails. Jim Hazlett, from Sarasota, also fished the same areas with me recently and caught and released snook and trout on CAL jigs with shad tails.
Look for reds, snook and larger trout in shallow water. Fishing deep grass flats of Sarasota Bay is a usually a good choice for action with a variety of species including trout, pompano, Spanish mackerel and more. Snook at night around dock lights in the ICW is also a good option depending on conditions. Our natural resources are under constant pressure from red tides fueled by industrial, agricultural and residential runoff, toxic spills and discharges, freezes, increasing fishing pressure and habitat loss and degradation, please limit your kill, don’t kill your limit!
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BEACH BEAT BRADENTON BEACH
3/16, 3 p.m., drug violation, 2653 Gulf Drive S. The officer responded to a call for assistance from the Coast Guard at the Coquina boat ramp after a subject was observed driving his Jet Ski at a high rate of speed in a no-wake zone. When the officer arrived, the Coast Guard had the man stopped as he was trying to get into a black Mercedes. The Coast Guard issued the subject a ticket for speeding on his Jet Ski, but as the Bradenton Beach officer approached the vehicle, he observed a passenger slide something under his seat, and also smelled the strong odor of burnt marijuana. Both men had no marijuana on their person, but a search of the vehicle turned up 19 grams of marijuana. Both subjects were issued a notice to appear for the possession charges.
HOLMES BEACH
3/9, 2:20 p.m., grand theft, 105 34th St. The officer responded to a report of a package stolen from the complainant’s mailbox. The complainant stated he was in New Jersey and had a neighbor checking his mail for a package from Amazon, but after receiving a message from Amazon that the package was delivered, he discovered it was not there. The man’s security camera showed a package being delivered but also showed a Chrysler sedan pull up to the mailbox and remove several items before driv-
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ing off. The video evidence was given to police and uploaded to the HBPD server. The case remains open and no suspects have been identified at this time. 3/11, 1:17 a.m., DUI, 4100 Gulf Drive. While on patrol, the officer observed a silver car traveling at a high rate of speed approaching the curve in the 4100 block of Gulf Drive. The vehicle spun out and lost control, ending up facing north in the southbound lane. The officer stopped the driver and advised her she was showing signs of impairment. The driver refused to take field sobriety exercises and demonstrated erratic behavior, ranging from laughing to crying. According to the report, the driver almost fell getting out of the vehicle, and after a female officer came to search her, she was eventually arrested for driving under the influence. The subject was taken to the Manatee County Jail and booked; no further action was taken. 3/14, 11:57 p.m., battery, 4307 Gulf Drive. Upon arrival at the listed location, the officer met with a woman in distress who admitted to being slightly intoxicated but was involved in an incident with another female staying at the residence after she tried to stop the woman from driving by taking her keys. During the altercation, the second woman grabbed and smashed the complainant’s mobile phone on the ground, making it unusable. The woman who smashed the phone was arrested for battery, tampering with a victim by hindering communication with law enforcement and criminal mischief.
PINEY POINT: Questions, repairs continue FROM PAGE 1
3105 Buckeye Road and is expected to be completed by next spring. FDEP officials issued a permit in December for Manatee County to build the well despite objections from five environmental groups that sued Piney Point owner HRK Holdings LLC, Gov. Ron DeSantis, the Manatee County Port Authority and FDEP, citing the potential for contaminating underground drinking water in the Floridan aquifer. The suit was filed in the U.S. District Court for the Middle District of Florida in Tampa. The case is pending as the judge considers FDEP’s motion to dismiss the case. Meanwhile, work continues to stop a new leak discovered in January in one of the gyp stacks on the site. The source of the leak has been identified, according to FDEP, which reports that workers plan to deploy a larger box structure over the existing box struc-
SUBMITTED
Ponds containing contaminated wastewater from phosphate processing operations at Piney Point are stored on gypsum stacks, another byproduct of the manufacturing process. ture they are using to filter the water and increase visibility so repairs can continue. There is no indication of any concern with the integrity or stability of the stack system, according to last week’s FDEP report.
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MARCH 23, 2022
PINE AVENUE: Bidding opens for improvements FROM PAGE 1
commission with diagrams that showed several areas where there is enough space to install 6-foot-wide sidewalks. Commissioner Mark Short said installing 6-foot-wide sidewalks would eliminate about 50 parallel parking spaces along Pine Avenue. Short noted each space must be at least 8 feet wide and there isn’t enough city-owned space to accommodate wider sidewalks and the existing spaces. “By putting these 6-foot sidewalks in, we’ve taken off the table the ability to parallel park on Pine Avenue,” Short said. “That would be a fair assessment,” Traverso replied. Commissioner Robert Kingan previously expressed support for 6-foot-wide sidewalks, but he changed his mind after learning about the consequent elimination of the parallel parking spaces. “That is a huge change,” he said. Kingan said he recently counted 39 vehicles parked along Pine Avenue. “That’s a lot of cars, and suddenly saying we’re eliminating that is a problem, so I’ve changed my tune,” he told the commission. Kingan said the Pine Avenue business owners would be upset if those spaces are eliminated. Traverso said due to sightline
and visibility concerns, the installation of 5-foot-wide sidewalks will still require the elimination of a small number of spaces. Short noted the new sidewalks will not eliminate any privatelyowned perpendicular parking spaces associated with the Pine Avenue businesses. Where applicable, the new sidewalks will maintain the current meandering path configurations that lead to nearby businesses. Commissioner Deanie Sebring noted that previous Reimagining Pine Avenue discussions included the potential removal of the parallel parking spaces in order to accommodate new sidewalks and bike paths. Sebring said eliminating the parallel parking spaces would encourage people to use alternative modes of transportation to get to Pine Avenue. Commission Chair Carol Carter said eliminating the street-side parking spaces would result in more people parking in the surrounding residential areas. The commission voted 4-1 in favor of 5-foot-wide sidewalks along the length of both sides of Pine Avenue, from Tampa Bay to the Gulf of Mexico, with Sebring casting the only opposition vote. That vote preserved, for now at least, the majority of the parallel parking spaces along Pine Avenue. Bike paths are not included in
JOE HENDRICKS | SUN
Pine Avenue is heavily used by motorists, pedestrians, bicyclists, golf carts and more. the RFP being issued for sidewalks, crosswalks and lights. Bike paths could be pursued later as a subsequent phase of the Reimagining Pine Avenue project, but there is not enough available space to install bike paths and preserve the existing street-side parking spaces. A commission decision on installing bike paths or preserving the existing parking spaces is not expected until after the new sidewalks, crosswalks and lights are installed and evaluated.
CROSSWALKS
The commission voted 5-0 in favor of three raised crosswalks with embedded flashers being installed across Pine Avenue. The crosswalks will be equipped with
control buttons that allow pedestrians to activate the flashers. Traverso recommended a raised crosswalk near Roser Memorial Community Church and another at the other end of the street near city hall, The Donut Experiment and Poppo’s Taqueria. Short suggested, and the commission supported, the installation of a third raised crosswalk across Gulf Drive at the Los Cedros Drive intersection. Existing non-raised crosswalks will be enhanced with additional lighting, safety striping and new signage. “I go up and down Pine every day and the problem I hoped we were going to solve is people walking in the street," Commis-
sioner Jon Crane said. "My biggest concern is getting people out of the street.” Crane is concerned that even with the new sidewalks and crosswalks many pedestrians will continue to walk in the road and cross where there are no crosswalks. “Rarely do I ever see a pedestrian use a crosswalk,” Crane said. Mayor Dan Murphy said shrubs or other landscaping elements could possibly be used to create natural barriers that guide pedestrians to the designated crossing areas. He also said the commission could consider adopting a jaywalking ordinance that would result in violators being subjected to citations and fines. No formal actions were taken on either of those actions.
LIGHTING
The commission voted 5-0 in favor of installing up to 27 new solar lights along Pine Avenue. The new lights and poles will replace the existing ones previously installed by Florida Power & Light. The commission reviewed some lighting options provided by Traverso, but the appearance and aesthetics of the new lights and poles will be determined during or after the RFP review and selection process.
MARCH 23, 2022
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F
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REAL ESTATE
MARCH 23, 2022
Condo rules out the window
or a while there I thought we would have one more headache to worry about in addition to insurance rates and hurricanes. On March 11, Florida legislators failed to reach an agreement on a bill to improve building structures. So, one less headache but far less oversight. Therefore, let’s take a quick review of what is going on. Because of the Champlain Towers South collapse on the east coast, everyone woke up to the possibility of older condos, especially those on or adjacent to barrier islands, being in jeopardy. Florida lawmakers attempted to pass legislation that would require specific inspections for condo buildings. However, at the end of the legislative session they were not able to come to an agreement. Some of the legislators cited hardships on condo owners and associations who are not in a financial position to bear the brunt of the inspection results. These discussions have been going on for a while and about a month ago the Florida House passed a bill outlining measures to
Castles in the Sand LOUISE BOLGER help alleviate the possibility of older condo buildings being neglected. It was passed in the Florida Senate to little avail since they closed the session without any agreement between the two houses. This came as a surprise since most of the legislators and the governor expected something to come out of the negotiations. The House bill stated that condo buildings that are three stories or taller need to be inspected and recertified at 30 years of age. In addition, those that are within 3 miles of the coast would require recertification at 25 years of age. After that, recertification would be required every 10 years. The Senate bill was similar, changing the
benchmark to 20 years for buildings near the coast and inspections every seven years thereafter. I wouldn’t get too excited about the end of this legislation. First of all, it could easily come back in the next legislative session. In addition, it’s possible that insurance companies and financial institutions may now impose reserve requirements on buildings, stepping in where the state officials have been absent. In spite of our what happens or does not happen in Tallahassee, Manatee County’s real estate is still rolling along. These are the February sales statistics published by the Realtor Association of Sarasota and Manatee. Single-family homes closed 4.3% more homes in February this year compared to last February. The median selling price was $478,000, up 25.8% above last February and almost the same as January of this year. The average sale price was $693,229, up 25.3% from last February. The median time for properties to get into contract is six days
of being listed. Condos closed 16.8% fewer units in February compared to last February. The median sales price was $325,000, up 41.3% compared to last February, and the average sale price was $371,367, up 36.1% from last year. The median time for properties to get into contract is five days of being listed. The primary problem our market faces is low inventory which is resulting in fewer closed sales. With mortgage rates going up, that will put more pressure on the market from buyers looking to purchase before they go up even further. According to the Realtor Association of Sarasota and Manatee, the imbalance of supply and demand contributes to the rapidly increasing prices. This is Florida, and for all our success in attracting new residents and having improving housing prices, we still have everything related to living on the water to contend with. I predict this isn’t the end of condo recertifications and a review of condo reserves.
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MARCH 23, 2022
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Couple paints windows of opportunity A married couple is changing the way people look at business windows on the Island with their unique works of art. JASON SCHAFFER SUN CORRESPONDENT | jschaffer@amisun.com
BRADENTON BEACH - A couple with a vision to work together is making a living doing what they love on Bridge Street - painting windows. Married for three years, Christina and Jessica Fonseca, of M Lynn Creative, realized they have talents that complement each other. “I’ve always been into art," Jessica said. "I’ve always joked that I have never met an art medium that I didn’t like. If I don’t like it, it’s probably that I’m just not good at it!" "I’m the business side of this. I have a degree in business administration. I do the marketing, social media and everything involving the business side of this,” Christina said, adding that de-
JASON SCHAFFER | SUN
M Lynn Creative’s completed work is featured at Back Alley Treasures on Bridge Street in Bradenton Beach. spite what Jessica may say, her partner has plenty of artistic aptitude. The couple is based out of Orlando, but has a special fondness for Anna Maria Island, and has acquired a dozen businesses that use their services here on the Island. The Fonsecas acknowledge that, despite their marketing skills, a lot of their work comes from word of mouth. Christina Fonseca says despite the rapid growth of their busi-
Perico Bay Club—As Good As It Gets!!
Business As Usual…..Just A Li le Differently. If you’re looking to buy or sell in Perico Bay Club, or know someone who is, please give me a call!
Give me a call today if you yo ou u’re ’ree lookin looking ngg to Buyy or Sell on Anna Maria Maria Island Mari Islaand or the surrounding ounding ngg aarea! rea eaaa!!
Lynn Zemmer 941 4141 1-730 3030 0-1294 9 94
941.209.1542 I Lynn@Edgewaterami.com 941.730.1294 | Lynn@Edgewaterami.com www.EdgewaterRealEstateInc.com www.EdgewaterRealEstateInc.com Street, Bradenton Beach, FL 34217 106 Bridge
ness, they are available for Easter window scenes now, and future holidays have openings as well. To have M Lynn Creative dress up a
window, call 407-259-1450, email marialynn.creative@gmail.com, or follow them on Instagram at mlynn.creative or on Facebook at MLynnCreative.
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MARCH 23, 2022
THIS IS HOW WE
FLORIDA
Get Away from it All or Ge t Into it All Daily life at Lakewood Ranch doesn’t look the same for everyone. Let loose at Music on Main or stroll the Farmers’ Market for new finds. Take advantage of our close-to-the-coast location with an afternoon trip to the beach, or join in the excitement of a Tampa Bay sporting event. Connect with nature on our trails or catch dinner and a concert at our newest lakefront town center. This is how Florida is meant to be lived. 18+ VILLAGES TO CHOOSE FROM I DISTINCTIVE HOME STYLES & SIZES I MULTIGEN LIVING OPTIONS I COUNTRY CLUB GOLF & RACQUET SPORTS I SOCIAL & SPORTS CLUBS I AWARD-WINNING LIFESTYLE I YEAR-ROUND FARMERS’ MARKET I TOP-RATED SCHOOLS 3 TOWN CENTERS WITH SHOPPING, DINING, ARTS & ENTERTAINMENT I 150 MILES OF TRAILS I THRIVING BUSINESS ECONOMY
NEW HOMES FROM THE $300S TO OVER $1 MILLION *
*Prices subject to change without notice. © 2022 Lakewood Ranch
20220223_LWR_AMI_AD_10X13_mf4.indd 1
.com 2/25/22 3:47 PM
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Work with the region’s best in real estate. We celebrate our peak performers for their extraordinary efforts and remarkable achievements in a record-breaking year – our 45th anniversary – across our region, with $4.79 billion in sales volume. Working tirelessly, collaboratively, and professionally while delivering exceptional service to customers in Sarasota, Manatee and Charlotte Counties – they are simply the best of the best. Stacy Haas & Gloria Bracciano
Adam Cuffaro Bradenton - IMG
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Tina Ciaccio
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Hannah Hillyard & George Myers
Pamela Miller
Deborah Angelo-O’Mara Lakewood Ranch
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Barbara Milian
Tom Cinquegrano
Laura & Stuart Lawrence
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Erica Thomas Bradenton
Anna Maria Island
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Leah Secondo
Kathy Valente & Gregory Zies
They are not only an inspiration within the industry but also within the communities we serve.
Bradenton
Judy Wright
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Chris Baylis
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Mark Boehmig
Christopher & Jamie Van Vliet
Mary Pihl, Laura Navratil & Timothy Carney
Anna Maria Island
Jonnie Dwyer
Cheryl Roberts
Nancy Phillips
Thomas Arthur
Beth Ann Boyer
Debra Vogler
Aaron Corr & Leslie Emery
Karla Davidson
Lakewood Ranch
Lakewood Ranch
Bradenton
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Bradenton
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Laura Naese
Stephanie Annable
Jody Shinn
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Lakewood Ranch
Ray Rausa
Lynne Callahan
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Fran DeDona & Pamela Goodwin
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Offices in Sarasota, St. Armands, Longboat Key, Bradenton, Anna Maria Island, Lakewood Ranch, Palmer Ranch, Siesta Key, Venice, Englewood, Boca Grande, Punta Gorda | MICHAELSAUNDERS.COM | 888.552.5228
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MARCH 23, 2022
CINDY LANE | SUN
Amaryllis by morning It’s common to see amaryllis bloom at Christmas, but in Florida, the bulbs also bloom in spring. The South African native is subtropical, like Anna Maria Island.
Watch the little ones The Anna Maria Island Privateers are sending out a big thank you to PIT Krewe and the Manatee High Key Club, who joined them Saturday, March 19 in support of the West Manatee Fire and Rescue for Drowning Awareness Day. Members of the Privateers held signs to alert passers-by of the dangers associated with swimming alone, and other possible hazards that come with a simple day at the beach. The rowdy pirates are encouraging everyone to closely watch the little ones when having a beach day and they thank all who honked in support of the cause.
PRIVATEERS | SUBMITTED
Let A Local Be Your Guide • 25 Year Island Resident • Listing Agent Specialist • Ethical & Efficient
941.504.7821 william@annamariaislandrealproperty.com instagram @annamariarealestateagent 941.779.0304
MARCH 23, 2022
Cindy Jones-Burke ke Realtor/Staging Certified Residential Specialistt
Cindy@CJonesRE.com m Direct: 941.773.9770
310 Pine Avenue • Anna Maria, FL 34216
teamduncan.com
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SPORTS
MARCH 23, 2022
Beach Bums, WTBL end season as champions BY MONICA SIMPSON SPECIAL TO THE SUN
ANNA MARIA - The rain delay the previous week gave four teams additional time to plan their strategy for the semifinal adult flag football games last Thursday night. In a nail-biter, WTBL narrowly won against TBT with the final score 27-26. In a game that came down to a failed extra point conversion by TBT, the WTBL squad moved on to face a worthy opponent in team Moss Builders. The Moss Builders team, led by Ryan Moss, defeated the Solid Rock Construction squad by five points, without the sure hands and speed of Jesse Griffin. Their win in the semifinal matchup put Moss in his third flag football final game this season as either a coach or player. What was anticipated to be a close game ended in a 20-point win by the less experienced, younger squad. Putting the pressure on QB Moss was key to the team’s win, with two sacks by Daniel O'Connor and a single by Tyler Brewer. The heat on the quarterback forced throws and caused one interception by WTBL’s Brandon Kull. Kull had two receiving touchdowns in the game in addition to his interception. WTBL teammates Julia King, Dominick Otteni and Jaret Rojas each had a touchdown catch in the championship game to give their team 18 points. Rojas and Brewer helped to seal the deal each with points after conversions. On the passing side of the game, Otteni had the top statistics of the game with four completed touchdown passes. Rojas, serving as QB, threw for six.
MONICA SIMPSON | SUN
Left, Team WTBL won the big game under the bright lights at The Center Thursday night in the co-ed flag football league. From left, Tyler “Bean” Brewer, Brandon Kull, Julia King, Jaret Rojas, Dominick Otteni and Daniel O'Connor. Right, the adult indoor soccer champions, team Beach Bums, won the big game at The Center of Anna Maria Island Thursday night. From left, Yuri Pereira, Lucky Durmaz, Osvaldo Cabello, Francisco Vecchio, Kevin Roman and David Noval. Moss Builders’ quarterback was down critical players in the big game. Missing some of his key targets, JB Shuck and Brandon Holcomb became the marks for Moss’ missiles. Shuck had eight catches for positive yardage and a touchdown. The football hit the hands of Holcomb twice and once for six points. The defense of WTBL and the skeleton roster widened the scoring gap as the game clock ticked down to the final 31 seconds on the scoreboard clock. In the classic Moss sportsmanship way, the game was called with time on the clock, with the final score 32-12 and WTBL champions. In The Center’s gym, adult indoor soccer playoff action kicked off, with the Beach Bums team finishing on top against Gulfview
Windows & Doors in the championship game. Gulfview made it to the Big Show after beating Sato Real Estate in semifinal action in a close game. Beach Bums took the victory against Slim’s Place by three goals, putting the team in the final against Gulfview. In the final game of the night at The Center, Gulfview continued to fight until the last second, but the scoring powerhouse of Beach Bums team was just too much. Gulfview’s Mark Long and Luca Vecchio each had hat tricks for their team. Julian Rodriguez, Keith Mahoney, and Raul Loera scored a total of five points for their team. Despite this and the 17 total goals saved by Long, Mahoney and Loera, the Gulfview Windows & Doors team could not capture the win.
Lucky Durmaz finished the top scorer of the game with six goals for Beach Bums. Kevin Roman and Mauro Vecchio scored five goals each, with an additional two by teammate David Noval. Osvaldo Cabello protected the net for his team, making 14 stops for Beach Bums. Vecchio is credited for two saves in the game, along with a save. After a crazy season of indoor soccer games and forfeits, the season ended with an action-packed final game with Beach Bums champions.
Moss Builders Solid Rock Construction
SUN SCOREBOARD THURSDAY, MARCH 17 ADULT CO-ED FLAG FOOTBALL SEMIFINAL PLAYOFF GAMES
ADULT CO-ED INDOOR SOCCER CHAMPIONSHIP
WTBL TBT
27 26
ADULT CO-ED FLAG FOOTBALL CHAMPIONSHIP GAME WTBL Moss Builders
25 20
32 12
ADULT CO-ED INDOOR SOCCER SEMIFINAL PLAYOFF GAMES
Gulfview Windows & Doors 5 Sato Real Estate 4 Beach Bums Slim’s Place
7 4
Beach Bums 18 Gulfview Windows & Doors 11
MARCH 23, 2022
FUN IN THE SUN
Across 1 *With 4-Across, researcher's wear 4 *See 1-Across 8 Nested newborns' noises 14 Be off 15 Major employer? 16 Like some quaint lamps 17 "Get it?" 18 Back 19 Old-fashioned type 20 *Briefs alternative 23 Soccer cheer 24 Lena of "Riviera" 25 Feast with poi 26 50 Cent piece, e.g. 27 Send-ups 31 Sixth sense: Abbr. 32 2021 World Series champs: Abbr. 33 Relish 35 "Garfield" dog 36 *Jewel-encrusted film noir title bird Answers to 03-16-22 Crossword Puzzle.
41 Curly cabbage 42 Vocally twangy 43 Nothing 44 Pound sound 47 Buffet with guacamole and salsa 51 Chekov's early "Star Trek" rank: Abbr. 52 Give (out) sparingly 54 Musical finale 55 CPR expert 56 *Sock hop attire 60 Seize, as an opportunity 62 __ proprietor 63 Poe's "Annabel __" 64 Infuriate 65 Latin 101 verb 66 Finish 67 Checked for prints 68 With 69-Across, Iditarod front-runner ... and a hint to the answers to starred clues 69 See 68-Across
Down 1 Sappho's island home 2 Anatomical ring 3 Secession approved in a 2016 U.K. referendum 4 Three-time Grammywinning singer Vikki 5 Valuable minerals 6 Asian nurse 7 Alpine region in Italy and Austria 8 Sportscaster Bob with 29 Emmys 9 Asks (for), as a loan 10 "Evil Woman" rock gp. 11 Legendary city of gold 12 Jargon with words ending in -ay 13 Church feature 21 Strand at sea 22 Poe's __ Morgue 28 Backstabber 29 Christmas __ 30 Aptly palindromic ABBA hit 34 "The Last Jedi" villain Kylo 35 The end of time? 36 Top-level computer list 37 Elite athletes 38 Lucrative, as a contract 39 Smart-whip link 40 Europe's __ de Genève 41 Prepared for a proposal 44 Common Sunday
newspaper insert 45 Supported from the bleachers, with "for" 46 Progressive spokeswoman 48 Heated to bubbling
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49 Glandular prefix 50 Like family-friendly films 53 '50s Ford failure 57 "You snooze, you __" 58 "Frozen II" sister
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59 Gardener's purchase 61 Tom Brady, before he became a Buc
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CLASSIFIED
ANNOUNCEMENTS BEACH YOGA ON Wednesdays, Saturdays & Sundays at 8:30am at the end of Pine Ave by the Sandbar Restaurant by donation. www.thriveyogafit.com THE BEST VOLUNTEER position on the island. The AMI Historical Museum needs docents and bread makers. Call Kathy Primeau at 989-560-6381. ROSER FOOD BANK needs donations of cash and non-perishable food, PAPER & PERSONAL HYGIENE PRODUCTS. Donations boxes are located at the Church, Moose Club, and Walgreen’s.
COMMERCIAL SALES, RENT & LEASE HAVE YOU BEEN thinking of selling? We NEED properties to List for SALE!!! Duplexes, multi family, small resorts? Call BIG Alan Galletto of Island Real Estate to get it SOLD 941-232-2216
CLEANING SERVICE THC CLEANING : Residential, Commercial, Rentals, VRBO. Professional and Reliable. Call 941-756-4570 or 941565-3931
EMPLOYMENT A POSITIVE IMAGE HAIR SALON is hiring 2 hair stylists for booth rental. Great working conditions, warm/ welcoming atmosphere for you and your clients. 7010 Cortez Rd West. Call Margie 941-962-2119. The award-winning ANNA MARIA ISLAND SUN, a weekly newspaper on Florida’s Gulf Coast, is looking for a freelance reporter/photographer to cover events on this tourism-driven island. The ideal candidate will have reporting and photography experience at a community newspaper and have some experience writing for a news website. Local residents or those with previous local knowledge and willing to relocate here a plus. Resumes and cover letters may be mailed to The Anna Maria Island Sun, P.O Box 1189, Anna Maria, FL 34216, Attention: Mike Field, publisher.
Call us today! 941-778-3986
FISHING CHARTERS CAPT. MAC GREGORY Fishing Charters. Full Day, Half Day, Night, Inshore & Near Shore. 941-809-5783 U.S.C.G. Certified/Insured
FOR SALE TOURING BICYCLE: LYNSKEY, TITANIUM, 'Sportive' 21gear., custom components: Shimano, Bontrager 'Race' carbon fork FSA, ASOO flat spoke wheels: virtually new, $4200 OBO. Call David 941-778-9315 CLASSIC BRITISH SEAGULL (1988), QBSeries, Curlew, pristine, no corrosion (used once), 4hp, Original Manual, $950 OBO. Call David in Holmes Beach: 941-778-9315
HOME IMPROVEMENT Michigan General Contractor 30+ yrs. experience. Large or small projects. Budget minded knowledgeable tradesman will complete your project start to finish: On Time/On Budget. Call Mike 616-204-8822.
HOME SERVICES CONCRETE FUSION, CRACK REPAIR sidewalks/ driveways. Why fix 95% of concrete when only 5% bad? Number 1 in concrete repair. Insured. Free estimate. Call Bobby 941-374-7670.
CUISINART MODEL TOA-60 toaster oven/air fryer Retail $230 never used. Asking $100 Call 941-348-7150
Decluttering and Organizing for your home or office. Packing/Unpacking & room revitalization to create comfortable and enjoyable environments. 765404-6608 Free Estimates!
HOME IMPROVEMENTS
LANDSCAPING & LAWN CARE
TILE! TILE! TILE! All variations of tile supplied and installed. Quality workmanship. Prompt, reliable, many Island references. Free estimates. Neil 941-726-3077
R. GAROFALO’S Interlocking brick pavers, driveways, patios, pool decks. Free estimates. Licensed & Insured. Call Rafael 941-778-4823 or Veronik 941-526-7941
RENOVATION SPECALIST ALL carpentry repairs, Wash Family Construction, locally owned and operated CBC 1258250 Call 941-7250073.
ISLAND RESIDENT. TREE/ BUSH Trimming, removal. Sweeping, blowing, weeding. Weekly, bi-monthly or monthly schedule. Pressure washing. Call Bill Witaszek 941-307-9315.
KERN CONSTRUCTION NEW Homes & Remodel. Design/Build. Since 1968. License # CBC 1261150. Call Mike Kern 941-7781115
SEARAY SPRINKLER SERVICES. Repairs, Additions, Drip, Timer Head Adjustments. Call Rick today Cell 720-299-1661 Office 941920-0775
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.
SHELL DRIVEWAYS & LANDSCAPE. Specializing in Old Florida Seashell driveways and scapes. Also Rock, Mulch, & Soil. Free estimates. Call Shark Mark 941-301-6067
API’S DRYWALL REPAIR 15+ years experience. Free estimates. No job too small. Love to help you. Call 941-524-8067.
LOST & FOUND LOST PRESCRIPTION SUNGLASSES in black case between Gulf Watch and Beach House Restaurant. Please call 847-563-8365. LOST at AMI MOOSE CLUB on Tuesday March 15 Brown wooden sunglasses with Abalone shell frame. Blue lenses. Call 941-2431444
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MARCH 23, 2022
MOVING & STORAGE MARTIN’S MOVING YOUR Island movers! Offering dependable, competitive rates. No hidden costs. 941-809-5777.
PAINTING & WALLCOVERING PAINT! PAINT! AND MORE 28 years of experienced interior/exterior custom painting. Pressure cleaning, drywall repairs and texture finishes. Many Island references. Please call Neil for free estimates. 941-812-0507 “WIZARD OF WALLS” Established 1980 Prompt quality service. Paperhanging/removal Faux finishes. Interior painting. Mary Bell Winegarden 941-794-0455 PROFESSIONAL PAINTING SERVICES. Prompt & Reliable. Island Resident. Quality Workmanship. Interior/Exterior. Also minor repairs & carpentry. Free written detailed estimates. Bill Witaszek 941-307-9315 DONALD PERKINS PAINTING LLC fully insured. 30 years experience. Many Island references. Call 941-705-7096
POOL SERVICES FOUR SEASONS POOL SERVICE AND CHEMICAL SERVICES. Certified Pool Operator. 10 + Years Experience. Residential/ commercial. Chemical Service Licensed & Insured. Call Dennis Clark 941-737-5657 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 Have you been thinking of selling? We NEED properties to List for SALE!!! GULF FRONT, CANAL FRONT, BAY FRONT CONDOS or HOMES ASK for BIG Alan Galletto of Island Real Estate to get it SOLD 941-232-2216 LOOKING FOR A highly motivated real estate broker to buy or sell your next home? Darcie Duncan, Broker Duncan Real Estate a lifelong island resident bringing success to her customers for 30 years. Proven track record brings you results! 941-725-1589
REALTOR FOR HIRE. BUYING OR SELLING on AMI? 17 years experience & USAF Veteran. Call Kelly Gitt Keller Williams Realty today 941-799-9299. 104 29th STREET UNIT #3 Holmes Beach Fl 34217. Steps to the beach, Peak a boo views from the unit of the GULF 2 BA/1.5BA. Upstairs unit. Weekly rental great income potential. $950,000 Sharon Hightower RE/MAX Alliance Group 941-3305054
RENTALS: ANNUAL ANNUAL RENTALS WANTED! We have well qualified tenants for beach and mainland annual rentals, Full management or Finders fee. Call today for details. Ask for Paige DUNCAN REAL ESTATE 513-3821992.
RENTALS: SEASONAL & VACATION TIFFANY PLACE Gulf Front Condo for Rent Incredible views from living room and master bedroom. 2BR/2BA Green Real Estate Call 941-778-0455
SEASONAL RENTAL in PALMA SOLA. 3BR/2BA weekly or monthly rates. Contact Barb Grace 941201-2190
ANNA MARIA ISLAND CONDOS Large pool, beach access, free WiFi, 1&2 Bedroom $900 to $1200 per week redekercondosonami.com Tim 941-704-7525 SUMMER AT THE BEACH Anna Maria Island. Updated 5 star Condo. Available May to November (monthly with multiple month discount) Million $ water view. First floor 2BR/2BA beautiful water view deck, walk to beach, pool, tennis. Smoke free. Email NOW rentamiwaterview@aol.com or Call 570-239-0431 VACATION RENTAL 2BR/2BA Cozy Cottage. Tastefully furnished, close to beach, tennis courts and boat ramp in Holmes Beach. Call 941-778-2919 Renting Weekly March 26 thru December 31.
TRANSPORTATION AMI TAXI metered-on-callcards accepted. Airport: Tampa $95, Sarasota $50, Clearwater $85, Orlando $195. Call 941-447-8372 or 941-447-8376. amitaxi4u@ gmail.com, www.amitaxi. com ANYTIME TRANSPORTATION to all Airports, Casino, etc. Tampa/St. Pete $80. Sarasota $40. Pets welcome. Very dependable. Reasonable rates. Contact Jeanne. 941-779-5095 AIRPORT RIDES- Tampa, St. Pete, Sarasota. Reasonable rates! Call or text Anna 941-932-1600
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MARCH 23, 2022
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the Team Duncan Difference! Local-Area Expertise Outstanding Customer C t S Service i Experienced Professionals Proven Performance
Darcie Duncan Broker - Owner
Cindy Jones Sales Associate
Michelle Laade Sales Associate
April Green Martha Jones Robel Sales Associate Sales Associate
Robyn Hawk Paige Rogers Joey Hutchinson Katie Self Sales Associate Sales Associate Sales Associate Sales Associate
Nancy Howle Sales Associate
William Romberger Sales Associate
Lindsey Leech Strickland Mary Anne Muniz Sales Associate Sales Associate
Home & Condominium Sales • Investment Properties • Vacation Rentals
BOUTIQUE PROPERTY MANAGEMENT Vacation Rentals • Annual Rentals • Association Management • Home Watch Service
• Dedicated, multi-lingual rental team • Performance tailored to your needs and expectations • Cutting-edge technology • Trusted by generations of Islanders, property owners, and visitors 310 Pine Avenue Anna Maria, FL 34216
Providing a top-no guest experien tch ce You call and we answer – 2 4/7 Always there for our owners Maximize yo ur revenue
TeamDuncan.com
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