Anna Maria Island Sun May 5, 2021 by Anna Maria Island Sun

- Named Best Florida Newspaper In Its Class -

VOL 21 No. 30

May 5, 2021

Food, music fest rocks despite propane tank scare BY JASON SCHAFFER SUN CORRESPONDENT | jschaffer@amisun.com

JASON SCHAFFER | SUN

HOLMES BEACH - The aroma of food truck cuisine and the sounds of local music filled the air on Saturday at the 5th Annual Beach ‘n Food Truck and Music Festival, until a propane leak shut down the event three hours early. The pressure release valve blew on the aboveground propane tank behind Holmes Beach City Hall, next to the festival grounds, around 4:30 p.m., said Terri Kinder, president of the Anna Maria Island Chamber of Commerce, which sponsored the festival. A band was on stage and merchants were manning their booths when it happened. “We immediately called police and the fire department came,” Kinder said. “They pushed everyone back about halfway on the field because they wanted to make sure we were all safe. They had to burn off the propane. There was an enormous flame shooting up. Thankfully, no one was hurt.”

The sound of live music and the smell of area food trucks filled the air at the 5th Annual Beach ‘n Food Truck and Music Festival. SEE FESTIVAL, PAGE 24

DeSantis suspends local COVID orders The governor’s actions coincide with a new state law that will take effect July 1.

Vacation rental bills defeated The Senate and House bills each died in committee before reaching their respective floors for a final vote. BY JOE HENDRICKS SUN CORRESPONDENT | jhendricks@amisun.com

BY JOE HENDRICKS

future non-hurricane related emergencies regarding business closures, school closures and other quality of life issues for Floridians. “I’ll also sign an executive order

TALLAHASSEE – The Florida Legislature’s latest attempt to give the state sole authority over vacation rental regulations has failed. When the Legislature concluded its 2021 session last Friday, two vacation rentals bills, Senate Bill 522 and House Bill 219, both died without being adopted as new state law. In past years, stated legislators attempted - and failed - to preempt virtually all vacation rental regulation to the state. Those failed efforts would have stripped local governments of their

SEE DESANTIS, PAGE 24

SEE BILL, PAGE 30

SUN CORRESPONDENT | jhendricks@amisun.com

Local government emergency orders regarding COVID-19 have been invalidated statewide under an executive order that Gov. Ron DeSantis issued Monday morning. At a press conference in St. Petersburg, DeSantis said the suspension of local emergency COVID orders will remain in effect until a new state law he signed today on emergency management procedures takes effect July 1. The new law, passed last week as Senate Bill 2006, will limit local government’s emergency powers during

INSIDE NEWS CALENDAR OUTDOORS RESTAURANTS REAL ESTATE SPORTS CROSSWORD

4 7 20 25 26-31 32 33

JOE HENDRICKS | SUN

Masks will no longer be required for Bradenton Beach City Hall visitors.

ability to regulate, register and inspect vacation rentals at the local level. In the Florida House of Representatives, those all-encompassing regulatory efforts continued and failed again this year. The Florida Senate’s legislative efforts produced an amended bill that eventually focused directly on the state regulation of the remittance of applicable rental and tourist taxes collected by online vacation rental advertising platforms such as Airbnb, VRBO and others. Filed by Sen. Manny Diaz Jr. (R-Miami-Dade), SB 522 originally sought to require advertising platforms to collect and remit taxes for certain transactions; revise an exemption to the prohibition against certain local regulation of vacation rentals; preempt the regulation of advertising platforms to the state; and require advertising platforms to adopt an anti-discrimination policy and to

MEMORIAL DAY

ANNA MARIA intends to share fed

Salute is returning to Anna Maria. 5

rescue funds with nonprofits. 11

Anna Maria Island, Florida

BOAT, water scooter collide near

Longboat Pass. 16 The Island’s award-winning weekly newspaper www.amisun.com

THE SUN

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MAY 5, 2021

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MAY 5, 2021

THE SUN

WMFR board eyes rate hike Board members held their mid-year budget review workshop April 20 and discussed implementing a 4% assessment rate increase in the coming fiscal year. BY KRISTIN SWAIN SUN STAFF WRITER | kswain@amisun.com

BRADENTON – Rates may be increasing for residents and business owners in the West Manatee Fire Rescue District, but if they do it should be by no more than 4% for the 2021-22 fiscal year. Commissioners held their annual mid-year budget workshop on April 20 prior to the start of their monthly meeting. During the meeting, they reviewed where the district currently sits with its 2020-21 budget six months into the fiscal year and where staff sees the district going financially during the next fiscal year beginning Oct. 1. At the mid-year point, staff reported that the district is right

on target with 51.44% of expenses accounted for and 86.15% of total income collected. WMFR’s total break-even budget for the 2020-21 fiscal year includes $9,410,362 in expenses. Those expenses take into account $1.631 million in capital expenses largely attributed to the construction of WMFR’s new administration building. The proposed 2021-22 fiscal year budget is projected to break even at $8,238,154, a difference of -$1,172,208 from the current year. That number includes a 4% assessment increase proposed by Chief Ben Rigney to help cover the costs of a new three-year employment contract currently wrapping up in negotiations between the district and the firefighters’ union. WMFR’s assessments are non-ad valorem, meaning that the amount of the assessment is tied to the size of a structure on a lot, or a flat fee if the lot is vacant, and whether the use is residential or commercial. A 4% increase in rates would bring the district’s projected

assessment rate revenue up to $7,820,586.80, an estimated increase of $300,791.80 over the current fiscal year’s projected assessment revenue of $7,519,795. Rigney projects $365,967.67 in increased costs for the 2021-22 fiscal year but says what the district doesn’t make up for in rate increases can be achieved through lowered costs in other areas. If commissioners vote during their May meeting to increase the district’s rates by 4%, the residential base rate will increase by $7.82 to $203.35 with a residential per square foot increase from $0.1153 to $0.1199 for every square foot of a building over 1,000 square feet. For a 2,000-square-foot home, the rate would increase from the current $310.85 to $323.28; a 3,000-square-foot home would increase from $426.17 to $443.22 and a 4,000-square-foot home would increase from $541.50 to $563.16. With a 4% increase, the commercial base rate would go from $485.94 to $505.38, an increase of

$19.41. The commercial per square foot rate would go from $0.2104 to $0.2188 for the amount of square feet over 1,000. For a 2,000-squarefoot commercial space, the rate would increase to $724.23. At 3,000 square feet, the rate would be $943.08 and at 4,000 square feet, the rate would increase to $1,161.92 for a commercial building. For residential properties, Rigney said the average increase would be $12.50 with a $28 increase for commercial properties. WMFR’s assessment rate is noted on the TRIM notices mailed out in the fall and collected as a part of the owner’s property tax bill. Assessment rates are allowed to be increased by the fire district each year according to the personal income growth number, or PIG, determined by the U. S. Bureau of Economic Analysis. This year’s PIG is 6.8% for the state of Florida, though the maximum increase considered and dismissed by WMFR commissioners was 5.64%.

THE SUN

ISLAND NEWS

IN BRIEF

Net camp supporters seek deadline extension Raymond Guthrie Jr.’s Cortez net camp is still standing after the court-imposed deadline for its demolition passed as supporters work for another extension. 12th Judicial Circuit Court Judge Edward Nicholas gave Guthrie until the last day of the Florida legislative session to persuade legislators to save the stilt structure Guthrie built in Sarasota Bay in 2017 without a permit. Guthrie claims ownership based on prior net camps his family built on the same spot. The court ruled that the state owns the submerged land under the structure. While the Legislature did not act by the last day of the session on April 30, members of Manatee County’s legislative delegation are still working behind the scenes to preserve the structure, said Karen Bell, of A.P. Bell Fish Co., who requested help on Guthrie’s behalf. “I haven’t given up,” she said.

SRO to continue at AME Students at Anna Maria Elementary School will stay safe next year thanks in large part to the Holmes Beach Police Department, which has agreed to loan out Officer Josh Fleischer for another school year as school resource officer. During an April 27 commission meeting, commissioners agreed to accept an annual contract for SRO services with the Manatee County Board of Education. For the 2021-22 school year, the total cost to the school district is $102,506.41, 70% of the officer’s pay, benefits, equipment, supplies and other costs. For the months that the officer works at the school, the school district covers 100% of the costs of employment for that officer, according to Chief Bill Tokajer.

Thurell sells Cortez home for $2.5 million Developer Peter Thurell, of Stocksund, Sweden, has sold his .97-acre Cortez waterfront home at 4510 125th St. W. in Cortez to Clint and Lisa Burgess, managers of Cortez-based Rule 32 Holdings LLC, for $2.5 million - one of the historic fishing village’s largest residential home sales in history. Thurell, president of Item Development Inc., once owned the 12.5-acre Hunter’s Hill property at 12505 Cortez Road in Cortez, which was approved for a 43-unit subdivision. That property is now under development as Hunters Point Pearl Homes and Marina, an 86-home community by subsequent purchaser and developer Marshall Gobuty, featuring 3,480-square-foot homes, enlarged from the original plan of 525-square-foot homes.

Holmes Beach receives stellar audit report Holmes Beach commissioners heard the results of the city’s annual financial audit during an April 27 meeting, and they couldn’t have asked for a better outcome. Certified Public Accountant Randy Dillingham, of CS&L CPAs, presented the audit results, saying the city’s finances once again passed the test and received an unmodified opinion for the 2019-20 fiscal year, the highest rating possible. He also praised City Treasurer Lori Hill for her hard work on the city’s financials and assistance with quickly providing the necessary documentation to the auditors.

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MAY 5, 2021

Map revisions could impact Bradenton Beach property owners

Public hearings will be held before any map revisions are finalized. BY JOE HENDRICKS SUN CORRESPONDENT | jhendricks@amisun.com

BRADENTON BEACH – The city’s ongoing efforts to resolve inconsistencies between its future land use and zoning maps could potentially impact property values and the future use of many properties citywide. The inconsistencies were created when the city adopted a revised future land use map as part of its 2020 comprehensive plan. Building Official Steve Gilbert and City Planner Luis Serna are now guiding the Planning and Zoning Board (P&Z) and the city commission through the early stages of the map revision process. The goal is to make the zoning and future land use maps consistent with each other. The map revisions being considered are not intended to alter the current use of an impacted property but could become a significant issue if the property is sold, demolished by a storm, or redeveloped in a manner that differs from its current use, possibly impacting the property value. During the April 21 P&Z meeting, the future land use and zoning maps for the Sandpiper Resort Co-Op were discussed in depth. The future land use and zoning map designations for several properties in the 2300 and 2500 blocks of Gulf Drive North were also discussed in depth. The potentially impacted properties in the 2500 block of Gulf Drive North include Sharky’s Seagrill, the Shell gas pumps and Circle K convenience store, a vacant lot, Club Bamboo and the two-story structure occupied on the ground level by the Studio 104 salon, the KW on the Water real estate office and the Blooms by the Beach florist shop, with residential units located above. Similar map inconsistencies exist in the 2300 block of Gulf Drive that could potentially impact the Aluna Wellness Center & Spa and Wagner Real Estate properties. Several other potentially impacted properties throughout the city have not yet been discussed by the P&Z board. The additional maps of these potentially impacted areas and properties can be viewed here. The board’s map revision discussions will continue on

JOE HENDRICKS | SUN

The map revisions could impact the Sandpiper Resort’s future land use and zoning designations. Wednesday, May 5 at 11 a.m., with the issue also expected to be discussed at the Wednesday, May 19 P&Z meeting. During the April 21 meeting, Gilbert said the purpose of that day’s meeting was for the P&Z members to review the proposed map revisions and make their recommendations to the city commission. The city commission has the sole authority to make any final decisions regarding map revisions. “This is not a public hearing to formally adopt these maps,” Gilbert noted.

SANDPIPER RESORT

In 2008, the city commission amended the future land use map, decreasing the maximum units allowed on the majority of the Sandpiper property from 18 units per acre to nine. But the coinciding zoning map that establishes the M-1 (mobile home park) zoning district was not revised in 2008 and has not been revised since then. The number of lots allowed by the land development code on the Sandpiper property exceeds the density established by the current future land use map. According to the future land use map, the majority of the Sandpiper property carries a medium-density residential land use designation. The portion of the property closest to the Anna Maria Sound shoreline carries a low-density residential land use designation. Gilbert and Serna recommend amending the future land use map designation to high-density residential, which would return the Sandpiper’s

future land use designation to its pre2008 status. P&Z member John Burns opposed that action and instead proposed revising the zoning map to match the nine units per acre allowed by the future land use map. The board members expressed concerns that revising the zoning map to allow 18 units per acre could result in a more intense future use of the Sandpiper Resort property should it ever be redeveloped as something other than a mobile home park. Burns said reversing the 2008 future land use map amendment would double the allowed density. In response, Serna said, “The intent is to reflect what’s on the ground there currently. This was a change that occurred in 2008, which is basically making those properties non-conforming. They conform to the zoning, but the zoning does not conform to the future land use. We’re really just trying to give them back what they had prior to 2008.” Burns said he was not aware of any Sandpiper Resort property owners who objected to the 2008 future land use map revision. “I’m not sure what the public response was back then, but it is definitely something where the city is out of compliance with its own plan. That’s a concern,” Serna said. Gilbert said the Sandpiper property has historically been zoned M-1, SEE MAP, PAGE 17

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THE SUN

Memorial Day Salute returning to Anna Maria The Memorial Day Salute will take place on Monday, May 31. BY JOE HENDRICKS SUN CORRESPONDENT | jhendricks@amisun.com

ANNA MARIA – As another sign of the gradual return to normalcy, the city plans to host its annual Memorial Day Salute at City Pier Park. Last year’s Memorial Day Salute was canceled due to the COVID-19 pandemic. Featuring a special recognition ceremony for all veterans and their spouses, this year’s Salute will take place on Monday, May 31 from 1011:30 a.m. The event will also feature a return performance by the Anna Maria Island Concert Chorus and Orchestra (AMICCO), however, only the Orchestra is performing this year, not the Chorus. Mayor Dan Murphy and Public Works Manager Dean Jones, both of whom are veterans, presented their special event request to city commissioners on Thursday, April 22. “As things are right now, from a COVID point of view, I think we know a lot more about it. A lot more of us

JOE HENDRICKS | SUN

The orchestra from The Anna Maria Island Concert Chorus and Orchestra will perform at this year’s Memorial Day Salute. are vaccinated and we’ve also learned a lot about how to handle crowds and what we need to have in place in order to accommodate the CDC guidelines,” Murphy told the commission. “This event has always been well attended in the past. We expect it will be again. The musicians are very excited to participate in this event. The musicians have been unable to play for any event on the west coast of Florida. This will be their debut, so to speak. We have the same conductor (Navy

veteran Leonard Murphy) that we had two years ago,” Murphy said. Murphy then asked Jones to explain the logistics of the special event. “This has been one of our most coveted events. 2019 was just fantastic,” Jones said. “We’ll be following CDC guidelines,” he said, noting the event area at City Pier Park will include at least 10 hand-sanitizing stations, a portable hand-washing station and signs that remind attendees to maintain proper social distancing.

“I’m working on a plan right now about using pods and how many people we can safely bring under the shade sail. We feel strongly that logistically we can pull this off. Like the farmer’s market, we’re going to require masks. If you don’t wear a mask, we’re going to kindly ask you to leave,” Jones said. He noted deputies from the Manatee County Sheriff’s Office Anna Maria unit will be on hand to politely and professionally enforce city and CDC safety guidelines and requirements. “We really want to make this happen. Being a veteran myself, and for the veterans I know in this city, it’s a very special event. It really means a lot and it means a lot to the city,” Jones said. Commissioner Joe Muscatello made the motion to allow the Memorial Day Salute to occur. Commission Chair Carol Carter said members of the ad hoc For the Love of Anna Maria Island committee would be volunteering their services to assist with the event. “We’re excited that this is something that would be brought to fruition,” Carter said.

THE SUN

OPINION

The Anna Maria Island Sun newspaper 3909 East Bay Drive, Suite 210, Holmes Beach, FL, 34217 Phone: (941) 778-3986 email: news@amisun.com | ads@amisun.com | classifieds@amisun.com

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MAY 5, 2021

The Anna Maria Island Sun Staff Publishers Mike Field Maggie Field Editor/CEO Mike Field Layout Ricardo Fonseca Reporters Cindy Lane Joe Hendricks Kristin Swain 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 John Reitz Distribution Bob Alexander Tony McNulty Connor Field Contributors Tom Vaught Steve Borggren Monica Simpson

LETTERS TO THE EDITOR

Seeking a voice

Residents take the initiative to speak at commission meetings. There have been expressions of frustration when being cut off at three minutes over quality-of-life issues, which are much more complex than what can be addressed in the strict adherence to three minutes. Robert's Rules of Order set speaking time at two separate 10-minute speeches per day. During public comment recently, to the surprise of many, a single resident received a single platform of more than 20 minutes for an issue that was not even on the agenda. What were the discriminating circumstances? What was the reason for this special treat-

ment and selective enforcement when others would have been ruled out of order? This occurred on the heels of some commissioners being "chastised" for reaching out to constituents for open communication and for communication in the role of liaison positions. We know the city has both openly and secretively "blocked" communications. If resident concerns make it on the agenda at all, they may be put at the end, they may die by never being returned to the agenda, or they may be placed again on the agenda so far in the future it is difficult to retain continuity. With many meetings extending until 10 p.m., the time is not coming from three-minute resident presentations. Many city resources

in staff time, attorney expenses, and commission time and effort seem to be devoted to solicitations for "special exceptions" which are not in the residents' best interest, nor in alignment with the Comprehensive Plan or ULI recommendations. Suppression of communication, suppression of positive and innovative suggestions, and apparent inequities are preventing Holmes Beach from being the best that it can be. The issuance of all the proclamations in the world cannot substitute for this. We hope for an open and responsive government, and until that occurs, we thank the press for those who are seeking a voice. Richard and Margie Motzer Holmes Beach

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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MAY 5, 2021

ON THE AGENDA ANNA MARIA

10005 GULF DRIVE FOR INFORMATION, CALL 941-708-6130

City hall is open to the public with limited capacity and safety protocols in place. Please visit www.cityofannamaria.com or contact city hall for more information. May 13, 2 p.m. – City Commission meeting May 17, 2:30 p.m. – Planning and Zoning board meeting May 27, 6 p.m. – City Commission meeting

BRADENTON BEACH

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

City hall is open to the public with limited capacity and safety protocols in place. Please visit www.cityofbradentonbeach.com or contact city hall for more information. May 5, 9:15 a.m. – City Commission emergency meeting May 5, 9:30 a.m. – Community Redevelopment Agency meeting May 5, 11 a.m. – Planning and Zoning board meeting May 6, 6 p.m. – City Commission meeting May 11, 9 a.m. – City Commission work meeting May 12, 9:15 a.m. – City Commission emergency meeting May 19, 9:15 a.m. – City Commission emergency meeting May 19, 1 p.m. – Planning and Zoning board meeting

HOLMES BEACH

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

May 5, 10 a.m. – Parks and Beautification Committee meeting May 5, 6 p.m. – Planning Commission meeting May 11, 6 p.m. – City Commission meeting with work session to follow May 19, 10 a.m. – Code Compliance special magistrate hearing May 25, 6 p.m. – City Commission meeting with work session to follow Island-wide May 10, 2 p.m. – Island Transportation Planning Organization meeting, Holmes Beach City Hall

May 18, 6 p.m. – West Manatee Fire Rescue board meeting, administration office, Palma Sola Presbyterian Church, 6510 Third Ave. W., Bradenton, 6 p.m. MARKYOUR CALENDAR The Island Branch Library is open at 60% capacity. Please wear a face mask/covering. The Tingley Memorial Library is open. The Center of Anna Maria Island is open with social distancing and face masks required. The Holmes Beach dog park (Scentral Park), skate park, basketball courts, pickleball courts and tennis courts are open. Local preserves are open, including Grassy Point Preserve, Neal Preserve, Perico Preserve and Robinson Preserve. Local beaches are open.

WEDNESDAY MAY 5

Beach market, Coquina Beach, 2650 Gulf Drive S., Bradenton Beach, 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Golfing for God, IMG Academy Golf Club, 4350 El Conquistador Pkwy, Bradenton, 2:45 p.m. tee time, 5:30 p.m. bible study and dinner, $40 for golf and dinner, $20 for dinner. Reservations required. Reserve to www.roserchurch.com/g4g/.

THURSDAY MAY 6

RoserRobics, Roser Church, 512 Pine Ave., Anna Maria, 9:30 a.m., no cost but donations welcome. Participants asked to bring bottled water and wear a face mask or shield. Farm stand, Holmes Beach City Hall, 5801 Marina Drive, Holmes Beach, 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Thursdays in Paradise Stroll featuring local art, music and food, Bridge Street, Bradenton Beach, 5 to 8 p.m.

FRIDAY MAY 7

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

SATURDAY MAY 8

Robinson Runners, Robinson Preserve Mosaic Nest, 840 Ninth Ave. N.W., Bradenton, 8 a.m.

Saturday mornings at the NEST, Robinson Preserve Mosaic Nest, 840 Ninth Ave. N.W., Bradenton, 9 a.m. to noon. Face masks required. Coastal Cleanup, Coquina Beach Bayside, 2651 Gulf Drive S., Bradenton Beach, 9 a.m. to noon. Reservations required at www. eventbrite.com/e/151200381411.

SUNDAY MAY 9

Rise and Shine Power Flow Yoga, Robinson Preserve Mosaic Nest, 840 Ninth Ave. N.W., Bradenton 10:30 a.m. to 11:45 a.m., $10 fee payable online. Bring your own yoga mat. Register at https://parks.mymanatee.org/wbwsc/webtrac.wsc/search. html?primarycode=110006 or call 941-7425923 ext. 6042 for more information.

MONDAY MAY 10

Prevention Plus health screening, Soiree Room, The Center of Anna Maria Island, 407 Magnolia Ave., Anna Maria, costs vary by test. No prescriptions required. Reserve to 1-888-667-7587.

TUESDAY MAY 11

Farmer’s Market, City Pier Park, 101 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. Participants asked to bring bottled water and wear a face mask or shield.

THE SUN

Beach, 5 to 8 p.m. Marshall Tucker Band, The Center of Anna Maria Island, 407 Magnolia Ave., Anna Maria, 6 p.m. Tickets on sale at www.centerami.org.

FRIDAY MAY 14

Beach market, Coquina Beach, 2650 Gulf Drive S., Bradenton Beach, 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Anna Maria Island Chamber of Commerce 22nd Annual Golf Tournament benefitting the scholarship fund, IMG Academy Golf Club, 4350 El Conquistador Pkwy, Bradenton, 11:30 a.m. Reserve to 941-778-1541 or info@ amichamber.org. Palma Sola Cleanup and Seaside Safari, Palma Sola Causeway Park, 9917 Manatee Ave. W., Bradenton, 6 to 8 p.m. Reservations required at www.eventbrite. com/e/151211962049.

SATURDAY MAY 15

Robinson Runners, Robinson Preserve Mosaic Nest, 840 Ninth Ave. N.W., Bradenton, 8 a.m. Saturday mornings at the NEST, Robinson Preserve Mosaic Nest, 840 Ninth Ave. N.W., Bradenton, 9 a.m. to noon. Face masks required.

SUNDAY MAY 16

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

THURSDAY

TUESDAY

Farm stand, Holmes Beach City Hall, 5801 Marina Drive, Holmes Beach, 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. RoserRobics, Roser Church, 512 Pine Ave., Anna Maria, 9:30 a.m., no cost but donations welcome. Participants asked to bring bottled water and wear a face mask or shield. Thursdays in Paradise Stroll featuring local art, music and food, Bridge Street, Bradenton

Stroller Stroll, Robinson Preserve expansion kayak launch, 840 Ninth Ave. N.W., Bradenton, 10 a.m. Reservations required to coral. bass@mymanatee.org or 941-742-5923 ext. 6034.

WEDNESDAY MAY 12

MAY 13

MAY 18

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MAY 5, 2021

Red tide remains in low concentrations BY CINDY LANE SUN STAFF WRITER | clane@amisun.com

ANNA MARIA ISLAND – Red tide remains in Manatee County after being detected in water samples a week ago. Background concentrations were found at the Palma Sola Bay Bridge and at Mead Point (Perico Island), according to the most recent Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission weekly report. Background and very low concentrations were detected at School Key (Key Royale) on Anna Maria Island. Low concentrations were found at the Rod & Reel Pier in Anna Maria and the Longboat Pass boat ramp in Bradenton Beach. Red tide-related respiratory irritation was reported in Manatee County, with fish kills reported in Sarasota County to the south. Red tide produces a neurotoxin called brevetoxin that can cause

High

RED TIDE REPORT

(respiratory irritation, shellfish harvesting closures, fish kills, water discoloration)

Very low

(possible respiratory irritation)

Background

Medium

(no effects)

(probable respiratory irritation, shellfish harvesting closures, fish kills)

None

(no red tide present)

Low

(possible respiratory irritation, shellfish harvesting closures, fish kills) Source: Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission respiratory irritation, coughing, and more serious illness for people with severe or chronic respiratory conditions such as asthma, emphysema or COPD, according to the Florida Department of Health. Health officials recommend that people experiencing

symptoms stay away from the water, go inside to an air conditioned space, or wear masks, especially during onshore winds. Consuming shellfish exposed to red tide can cause neurotoxic shellfish poisoning.

Health officials also warn against swimming near dead fish, and advise keeping pets away from dead fish and sea foam, which can contain high concentrations of algae. Pets are not allowed on Anna Maria Island’s beaches, but are allowed on the Palma Sola Causeway on Manatee Avenue leading to the Island. Environmental officials say that the nutrients phosphorus and nitrogen, which feed toxic red tide algae blooms, were present in the 215 million gallons of polluted water discharged last month into Tampa Bay at Port Manatee from one of the inactive Piney Point phosphate plant’s retention ponds, built into a gypsum stack. The emergency release, which ended April 9, took pressure off the compromised stack to avoid an accidental spill of even more of its contents. The polluted water is spreading into the Gulf of Mexico, according to the University of South Florida College of Marine Science.

DOCK & DINE

Cruise to the Pier by land or sea! Boat docking is NOW AVAILABLE at the Pier location! LANDSIDE

6906 14th Street West 941.758.7880

CORTEZ

6696 Cortez Road 941.792.0077

ELLENTON

1525 51st Avenue East 941.721.7773

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

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MAY 5, 2021

THE SUN

Blue-green algae detected in Tampa Bay Blue-green algae was detected in nine water samples taken in Tampa Bay from April 23-29 in response to last month’s release of 215 million gallons of polluted water from the closed Piney Point phosphate plant in Tampa Bay, according to the Florida Department of Environmental Protection. Analysis has revealed trace levels

of cyanotoxins, neurotoxins that are produced by blue-green algae. Bloom conditions continue to be monitored. Exposure to cyanotoxins can cause hay fever-like symptoms, skin rashes, respiratory and gastrointestinal distress, and, if consumed, liver and kidney damage, according to the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency.

Stone crab season better than expected UNIVERSITY OF SOUTH FLORIDA COLLEGE OF MARINE SCIENCE | SUBMITTED

Piney Point pollution forecast Scientists at USF’s College of Marine Science in St. Petersburg are forecasting where the plume of polluted water from Piney Point will be on May 4 based on tides, currents and wind. The areas of most concern are indicated in orange and yellow. 215 million gallons of polluted water were released into Tampa Bay at Port Manatee last month from one of the closed Piney Point phosphate plant’s gyp stack retention ponds to take pressure off the compromised stack and avoid an accidental spill of even more of its contents. The water is an acidic blend of saltwater and debris from a Port Manatee dredge project, stormwater runoff, rainfall and “legacy process water” - wastewater from phosphate processing that contains nutrients such as phosphorus and nitrogen, which feed toxic red tide algae blooms. An accidental leak detected on March 26 led to the discharge, which ended April 9.

COVID-19 did not impact the stone crab market as much as expected this season, according to Karen Bell of A.P. Bell Fish Co. in Cortez. “I was wrong. It’s better than I thought it was going to be. I thought with COVID the price would be terrible,” she said. On April 30, 160 pounds of claws were delivered to the Bell docks, she said. The season closed on May 1.

The annual season closure date was modified last year from May 15 to May 1 in response to a long-term decline in harvest, and because the stone crab fishery is likely being overfished, according to the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission, which implemented the early date to increase the stone crab population and build resiliency in the fishery.

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THE SUN

MAY 5, 2021

COMMUNITY CHURCH

Essential Truths WHY AM I HERE?

SUNDAY WORSHIP 8:30 AM or 10:00 AM

In the SANCTUARY and ONLINE

HappyMother’sDay!

A GIFT for all MOMS and DAUGHTERS on May 9! Go to www.RoserChurch.com to WATCH LIVE or WATCH LATER

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City committee members and staff gather around as Mayor Judy Titsworth dedicates a new red cedar tree in honor of National Arbor Day April 30 at Prince Park.

Celebrating Arbor Day in Holmes Beach A small group gathered at Prince Park on April 30 but it was a group of happy faces all coming together to celebrate National Arbor Day. In honor of the day, a red cedar tree was planted in the park’s southeast corner. Mayor Judy Titsworth, Holmes Beach Parks and Beautification Committee member Alec Graham, Public Works Administrator Matt McDonough and public

works employees all gathered at the park to plant the new tree. Prince Park, located at 121 52nd St., is dedicated to Holmes Beach’s favorite feline resident, a cat named Prince who made his home among the city center businesses before passing away in July 2015. The pocket park was dedicated to his memory in early 2016.

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MAY 5, 2021

THE SUN

Anna Maria looks to share American Rescue Plan funds The city of Anna Maria expects to receive about $740,000 in federal funds. BY JOE HENDRICKS SUN CORRESPONDENT | jhendricks@amisun.com

ANNA MARIA – The city of Anna Maria intends to share some of its American Rescue Plan Act funds with the non-profit organizations that operate within the city. The anticipated sharing of federal funds associated with the Biden administration’s economic response to the COVID-19 pandemic will result in qualified non-profit organizations being partially compensated for revenues lost during the pandemic. On Thursday, April 22, City Clerk and Treasurer LeAnne Addy last week provided the city commission with an update on the receipt and use of the federal funds. The city expects to receive about $740,000, Addy said at the April 22 commission meeting. The potential uses for that money include responding to public health emergencies, transferring funds to non-profit organizations, making infrastructure adjustments and recouping past revenue losses, she said. Addy said the covered period for the use of the federal funds is March 2, 2021, through Sept. 30, 2021. “We’re working on it every day,” she said. Mayor Dan Murphy referenced the draft version of the request form for lost revenue due to COVID-19 included in the commission’s meeting packet. The form seeks information regarding the non-profit organization’s estimated lost revenues due to the pandemic, information about the organization’s gross income and expenses for the past three years and copies of the organization’s tax returns for the

JOE HENDRICKS | SUN

City Clerk and Treasurer LeAnne Addy is playing a key role in the receipt and distribution of the federal funds. Commissioner Mark Short wants to find the right balance when it comes to the city’s use and sharing of the money. past three years. It also requests information regarding the previous receipt of COVID-19-related funds from other sources. “There’s a lot of options. Bear in mind, we will be audited by the federal government,” Murphy told the commission. “I want to gather as much information as possible so we can make the right decisions on how much to compensate a nonprofit for its loss of revenue.” He mentioned The Center of Anna Maria Island, the Island Players, the Anna Maria Island Historical Society and the Anna Maria Garden Club as potential recipients. He said there may be others as well. “I know all four of them were impacted with some loss of revenue. Should we make them whole? Probably not,” Murphy said. After noting that some of the services and benefits provided by Anna Maria’s non-profit organizations extend to the rest of the Island community, too, Murphy said, “I think the other cities need to pony up as well.”

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Commissioner Jon Crane praised Addy and Murphy for creating the one-page request form. Regarding previous funding sources used by non-profit organizations, Crane said, “If you got a loan for COVID, that’s a source of funding. It probably ought to not be counted against them.” Murphy agreed. Commissioner Mark Short sought clarification on the March-September 2021 coverage period. “They’re really applying for what happened last year. This is a look back kind of thing, not a looking forward kind of thing?” he asked. Murphy said that was accurate. Short then addressed the city’s use of the federal funds. “The city stands to gain $740,000. What I don’t want us to do is give $740,000 to the non-profits and leave nothing for the city. We need to have a big picture view, vision and plan with respect to how the city would potentially use the $740,000,” Short said, noting this may require some “tough decisions.”

Murphy envisions some of the federal funds being used by the city and some being allocated to non-profits. He said he and city staff have already analyzed the city’s infrastructure needs and the potential use of federal funds to make drainage improvements, and possibly road improvements. “The final decision is yours as to how this gets spent,” he told the commission. Commissioner Deanie Sebring noted the American Rescue Plan funds must be spent by 2024. Murphy said the first installment of federal funds is scheduled to arrive on or before May 11 and the second installment is expected in or around May 2022. “When May 11 comes, and the money’s in the bank, you’ll have a plan,” Murphy said. In closing, Crane said, “We shouldn’t think of this as fluff versus potholes. Every one of these non-profits makes our city a better place.” The commission took no formal actions and made no binding decisions during its April 22 discussion.

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MAY 5, 2021

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Lovebugs return, annoying as ever BY JASON SCHAFFER SUN CORRESPONDENT | jschaffer@amisun.com

‛S YOUR COMFORT ZONE? WHERE

ANNA MARIA - Car washes love them but most everyone else finds them to be an incredible nuisance. Twice a year, the Island is invaded by a tiny flying pest known to science as Plecia Nearctic, but better known to Floridians as the lovebug. And they’re back. Sometimes called the doubleheaded bug or honeymoon fly, lovebugs don’t actually have two heads, although at first glance they look like they do. Lovebugs are males and females that remain attached, even in flight, for up to several days after mating. Lovebugs don’t bite or sting and are not a health risk to humans, but their enormous numbers do cause real problems during mating season, which occurs late April into May, then again in late August into September. “They’re not native to here, they’re native to Central and South America. They migrated to the Gulf states to mate. The Florida heat is perfect for them,” said Kaeli Dye, the lead keeper at Sarasota Jungle Gardens. “They’re not considered an invasive species, they don’t do damage to crops, or cause damage to local wildlife; they’re just annoying.” Because of the massive numbers of these flying romantics, it is inevitable they will get stuck to vehicle exteriors. That’s where they do their damage. When alive, the bugs have a neutral acidity, but once they are

JASON SCHAFFER | SUN

Lovebug mating season is back, and unfortunately, there is little that can be done to stop this biannual annoyance. dead, they become very acidic. After only a few hours they become difficult to remove from windshields, grills, headlights and any other part of a vehicle they are stuck to. If they’re left splattered on a painted surface their bodies begin to eat away at the paint job. They also can clog vehicle filters and intake systems. Bottom line: Wash them off asap. “They love white surfaces, so it may not be a great idea to wear white during their mating season,” Dye added. Other things that seem to attract these pests include freshly painted surfaces, shiny metallic surfaces and hot asphalt. At the

peak of mating season, it is virtually impossible to avoid them, and there isn’t much any pest control company can do to get them out of your way. The best that can be hoped for is dry weather, which can cause fewer eggs to hatch. Some seasons are worse than others and some areas see higher concentrations than others. Predicting exactly when and where lovebugs will appear in the highest concentrations is dicey, at best. They only live a few days after breeding, which means they are usually gone by summer. The only certainty, however, is that the lovebugs will be back.

THE SUN

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MAY 5, 2021

Tourism campaign draws national media to AMI BY JASON SCHAFFER SUN CORRESPONDENT | jschaffer@amisun.com

BRADENTON - After a year of quarantine, visitors are beginning to once again plan vacations. With tourism being so vital to the economic well-being of Anna Maria Island and Manatee County, public relations campaigns are essential to draw travelers to the area. At last week’s Tourist Development Council (TDC) meeting, the marketing and communications director for the Bradenton Area Convention and Visitors Bureau (BACVB), Kelly Clark, along with Aqua Public Relations Director Megan Brewster, discussed how public relations are being used to encourage tourism in the area. Over the past six months, the BACVB has put together a multi-phase public relations campaign. Phase one focuses on hyper-local social media influencers. These are people with a strong social media presence that live here in the area. According to Clark, these people are a safe way to spread the word about events and activities that will be of interest to potential visitors. They developed tiered packages based on how many people each social media

MEMBERS OF THE MANATEE COUNTY TOURIST DEVELOPMENT COUNCIL | SUBMITTED

A multi-tiered campaign to bring social media influencers and national media to Manatee County results in huge exposure. influencer reached. Top-tier influencers, who reach hundreds of thousands of people, were offered a two-night stay experience. Those with less of a following were offered day trips. “The itineraries focused on what was open, what was safe, wide-open spaces, and stuff that research showed us people were looking to do if they were considering traveling,” said Brewster. She added that in exchange for hosting the influencers, participating partners received Instagram posts with direct links to their business via @Visit_Bradenton as well as Instagram stories at each stop. The combined audience reach of this phase of the campaign

was 380,000 people. Phase two involved short trip itineraries for some in-state travel writers. Brewster said research showed that short trips would be the first to return after restrictions were lifted. This is known as the “drive market,” since those making this type of trip would most likely be coming by car from within the state of Florida. The slogan “Unwind With Peace of Mind” was used for this phase of the campaign. “You can come here, we’re being safe, and here’s how we’re doing it,” said Brewster, speaking of the slogan. Brewster also said this phase of the campaign garnered interest from In-

dulge Magazine, which is produced by the Miami Herald and has a very large reach. Orlando Magazine, a lifestyle magazine for family-oriented professionals in the Orlando area, also visited and did a feature about Anna Maria. Phase three focused on markets of lift, bringing in travel writers to coincide with Southwest Airline’s inaugural flights to Sarasota Bradenton International Airport (SRQ). With flights to Houston, Baltimore/Washington, Chicago, and Nashville now added, social media influencers and media from all four of these markets were brought in for a visit. The most influential of these outlets to be hosted on Anna Maria was Forbes Magazine. With an audience reach of 33.7 million people, the in-depth article with multiple photos and interviews with area residents and business owners is great publicity for the area. Clark reviewed upcoming efforts, which include expanding lift market outreach in appropriate markets, continuing to expand markets showing SRQ passenger demand, expansion of outreach to national outlets, and shifting of focus to family travel in summer.

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MAY 5, 2021

THE SUN

Public Works Department appreciates new ATV The new vehicle is much appreciated by the Public Works Department. BY JOE HENDRICKS SUN CORRESPONDENT | jhendricks@amisun.com

ANNA MARIA – The Anna Maria Public Works Department has a new all-terrain vehicle (ATV) that’s already had a positive effect on the department and its employees. “We purchased an all-terrain vehicle for the Public Works Department to use in swales and the areas that require four-wheel-drive, as well as on the beach where we have to pick up trash and garbage, fill in holes and things of that nature,” Mayor Dan Murphy told the city commission on Thursday, April 22. The commission had previously approved the purchase. “Since we’ve gotten the vehicle work has greatly improved. We’re able to be more flexible. The manhours have become more effective,” Public Works Manager Dean Jones said. “It’s just a wonderful vehicle to have. It’s amazing how much one vehicle can change the morale of the group and our ability to get more work done in shorter periods of time. It’s really been a godsend and money well-spent,” Jones said.

ANNA MARIA PUBLIC WORKS DEPARTMENT | SUBMITTED

This new ATV vehicle is now part of the city of Anna Maria’s vehicle fleet. According to Jones, the ATV cost about $20,000 and was purchased a few weeks before the April 22 meeting. During that meeting, the commission adopted a city resolution that allows the non-street legal vehicle to be operated on public streets by city staff when conducting city business. “You can’t get a tag for this vehicle,” Murphy told the commission.

2021

BARBARA MURPHY | SUBMITTED

Belle Haven Cottage sign restored Al Gilchrist, a longtime member of the Anna Maria Island Historical Society, and a docent and settler’s bread baker for the AMI Historical Museum, recently restored the Belle Haven Historic Cottage sign that stands on the museum grounds along Pine Avenue in Anna Maria.

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MAY 5, 2021

Boat, personal watercraft collide near Longboat Pass The accident caused no fatalities.

I’m glad we came

BY JOE HENDRICKS

along when we

SUN CORRESPONDENT | jhendricks@amisun.com

BRADENTON BEACH – While operating a tour boat for Paradise Boat Tours on Sunday, Captain John (Mike) Draayom helped pull a male and a female from the Intracoastal Waterway near Longboat Pass and the Coquina DC FANS! boat ramps. Reduce Your Draayom said the tour boat A/Cwas Bill traveling south on the ICW at about 5:45 p.m. when he spotted two people in the water near a boat and a personal watercraft that appeared to be floundering just north of mile marker 47.& Parts Services Available “We came upon two folks in the water and they were in pretty bad shape. We were able to lower our ladder and assist them up onto the vessel. I called 911 and we took them to the closest boat ramp (Coquina South) and waited there for EMS,” Draayom said. “We were able to pick up the two JetSkiers and there was a lady in the boat that was injured as well,” he said. “On Sunday, at approximately 5:30 p.m., the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC) received notification from Manatee County

did because there was a lot of boats going pretty fast through that area at

Sheriff’s Office of a boating accident near North Coquina Boat Ramp in Manatee County,” FWC Public Information Officer Bryce Phillippi said in a prepared statement. The FWC is the lead agency in the investigation. “The FWC, MCSO marine unit, Manatee County Fire Rescue and the United States Coast Guard responded to the scene of a two-vessel boating accident involving a 17-foot vessel and a 10-foot personal watercraft. The personal watercraft operator and the vessel passenger received injuries and

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both individuals were transported to a hospital for treatment. The vessel operator and PWC passenger were uninjured,” according to Phillippi. “I’m glad we came along when we did because there was a lot of boats going pretty fast through that area at the time,” Draayom said. “The gentleman in the water was struggling pretty hard. If he wasn’t wearing a life vest, he could have been in serious trouble. He walked away. She got transported with rib issues.” Regarding the female boat passenger

who was injured, Draayom said, “From what I’m told, the cowling came off the Jet-Ski, went into the boat and hit her.” The man driving the boat told Draayom that the boat and the personal watercraft collided, he said, adding that he did not know the cause of the collision. Draayom said he had passengers aboard the tour boat while the events transpired. “They were just fine. I apologized profusely and they remained seated throughout the whole thing, just watching,” he said.

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MAP: Revisions could impact property owners FROM PAGE 4

under the high-density residential criteria, and changing that zoning would have consequences. “We would be taking away dwelling unit density from them. Which is why we’re recommending making this (the future land use map) consistent with the historic use and the current use rather than rezoning it and potentially causing damage to their property value by changing future land use back to what it was before this map was done,” Gilbert said. Board member Bill Morrow asked if the Sandpiper Resort community is currently configured to nine units per acre. Gilbert said the current density is much higher than that. “There are two choices to be made here: one is to revert back to high density for that entire parcel and a future developer could fit quite a few units in there. If you keep it the way it is, future developers are not going to be able to pack as many buildings or dwelling units in there. The second option is to change it (the future land use designation) back so that the mobile home park remains conforming to current zoning, but that also gives them the ability, if they choose to sell the property, to develop the property at 18 units per acre,” Gilbert said. “I see no benefit to the city nor to adjacent properties in changing it back to the way it was,” Burns said. The board voted 5-0 in support of Burns’ motion to recommend the city commission amend the zoning map to match the nine units per acre currently allowed by the future land use map, despite the recommendations of Gilbert and Serna.

GULF DRIVE NORTH

The board also discussed the map inconsistencies that exist in the 2500 and 2300 blocks of Gulf Drive North. The future land use map currently designates those areas as R-2 medium density residential with a C-2 general commercial zoning designation. “All the uses on the property are commercial,” Serna said of the existing property uses. Serna and Gilbert recommended amending those future land use map designations to Retail/Office/Residential (ROR) in order to be consistent with the existing zoning and current uses of those properties. Burns expressed concerns that commercially zoned property with an ROR future land use designation would allow new structures to be built with 90% lot coverage. “You might have 90% lot coverage when you get done with the parking lot, but building coverage, no,” Gilbert responded. Board member Fred Bartizal said he likes the existing zoning the way it is. “Why change it?” Burns asked. “Because the uses of the property are not residential,” Serna replied. Serna said the Circle K property is zoned C-2 but the future land use designation is medium density residential. “That’s where the inconsistency is,” he noted. Burns asked if a new Circle K building could be built on that property if a storm or some other disaster destroyed the existing structure. In response, Gilbert said, “Not really, because C-2 zoning is not consistent with the medium density dwelling as established by the future land use map. The future land use map says zero to nine dwelling units per acre and no commercial development

is to occur there. It’s a residential land use. Your commercial zoning is not consistent with your comprehensive plan and the existing uses there would become nonconforming uses. In order to make them conforming, you either change the future land use map or you change the zoning. To preserve the character of what’s up there now, the future land use map goes to ROR and the zoning goes to mixed-use, rather than commercial.” “The comp plan is saying that should be residential and what’s on the ground isn’t residential. That’s all we’re trying to fix,” Serna said. “You’re opening a can of worms to fix it,” Burns replied. Serna said not allowing commercial structures in those areas could subject the city to legal challenges. “They could sue the city and that’s the concern we’re trying to address. We don’t want to take away anyone’s rights through down-zoning,” Serna said. Regarding properties made non-conforming with city code due to past or future commission actions, Serna said, “They can exist as long as they’re not destroyed, but the owners of those properties could rightly come and say we’ve had a development right under zoning and now it’s being taken away.” Board member Fred Bartizal expressed concerns about making zoning revisions that could potentially allow for more intense development. “What worries me is there’s some pretty smart developers out there right now with some real smart lawyers. If we change any of them, will it make it easier for them?” he said. Board chair Ken McDonough noted the challenge for the city is what happens if a property owner wants to develop a property

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They could sue the city and that’s the concern we’re trying to address. We don’t want to take away anyone’s rights through down-zoning.” Luis Serna, City Planner where there are inconsistencies between the zoning and future land use maps. “What do you do? Do you go by the zone map? Do you go by the future land use map?” he asked. “That’s why we’re having this discussion,” Gilbert said. “There’s a vacant lot next to the Circle K. It’s zoned C-2. The land use is duplex and they want to put in shopping. If we follow the zoning it will become a duplex.” The board unanimously supported Burns’ motion to recommend the city commission change the zoning map to match the current future land use map, which is medium density residential, R-2 – which allows single-family residences or multi-family duplexes and apartments, despite what Gilbert and Serna recommended. Gilbert noted that before any final map revision decisions are made by the city commission, all potentially impacted property owners will be notified and will have the opportunity to address the P&Z board and the city commission when future public hearings are held.

MAY 5, 2021

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MAY 5, 2021

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OUTDOORS

MAY 5, 2021

Angler’s action guide Reel Time RUSTY CHINNIS

’ve written a lot lately about the critical issues facing our local waters and the need for anglers (everyone, really) to get involved in efforts to protect them. What does it mean to get involved? How can you best accomplish your goals? Good questions. I realized late in life the power and necessity to make my voice heard and exercise my power at the polls. That’s why I wanted to share the information I’ve gleaned by asking those very questions. Complaining about something we have some control over and doing nothing about it works against your interests. Unfortunately, inaction often becomes glaringly apparent when it’s too late. Learning how to exercise your rights effectively and efficiently is more critical than ever. Here are a few ways I’ve found to be efficient and links you can use to get your voice heard. Write letters. I’ve found writing letters to the editor of the local newspapers is a terrific way for the average citizen to be heard. Chances are the people who need to hear what you’re saying are paying attention. Locally I submit letters to the Anna Maria Island Sun, The Observer Group, The Bradenton Herald and the Sarasota Herald-Tribune. Each of these same papers may allow you to submit a guest editorial. Also consider writing letters

CAPT. JUSTIN MOORE | SUBMITTED

A lyngyba algae bloom stretched from the Manatee River to Perico Island on Monday, May 3. and perhaps asking for a meeting with a legislator. Attend meetings and speak out. The slogan, “Think globally, act locally” is powerful and locally perhaps the most effective way to make a real difference. Attend local commission meetings and either speak in person or have your comments read to commissioners. Check on how to do this by using search terms like address the Anna

Maria (substitute your city) City Commission. The same goes for Manatee County or whatever county you may reside in. If you’re concerned about an issue that affects you and your children’s future and you don’t act, there’s one thing you can count on - others will be making the decisions based on interests that might support them financially but have a negative effect on you.

Nothing makes that point as dramatically as the recent debacle at Piney Point, where inaction over decades led to the dumping of 215 million gallons of phosphate process water containing 10 times the nitrogen of raw sewage. I think you’ll find taking action is empowering. By taking action you’ll soon realize that you have a voice and that voice has power. But only if you use it.

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MAY 5, 2021

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Rex Klepfer, a lifelong Bradenton resident, hoists a 34-lb African pompano caught with Captain David White of Anna Maria Charters.

CINDY LANE | SUN

Taking flight

CAPTAIN DAVE WHITE | SUBMITTED

Spring temperatures bring hot inshore action CAPTAIN DAVE WHITE

Water temperatures are increasing and spring seems to be in full effect around our little Island. Inshore, the action has been the best it’s been all year so far. The snook, redfish and larger trout are cooperating nicely on the grass flats. While on the local reefs, Spanish mackerel, jack crevalle, and the occasional cobia are getting caught as well. We’re starting to see a tarpon here and there. I assume with these south

winds and higher temperatures, it’ll be full-on in the next two weeks. Offshore, it’s been phenomenal, with limits of yellowtail snapper, mangrove snapper, red grouper and African pompano. We’ve been putting our clients on big fish consistently. And we like that! We actually had about a 300-lb blue marlin swim up to the boat in 160 feet of water on May 2. This is definitely a first for me. We’re hoping conditions get better for offshore and the fishing remains the same!

A kiteboarder launching his kite in Holmes Beach flushes a flock of black skimmers, squawking at the unfamiliar airborne “predator.”

BIRD TIPS During bird nesting season, March through August, please follow these tips: • Never touch a shorebird chick, even if it’s wandering outside a staked nesting area. • Teach kids not to chase birds – if they’re disturbed, bird parents may abandon nests. • Don’t feed birds – our food is not good for their health, and it encourages them to fly at people aggressively. • If birds are screeching and flying at you,

you’re too close. • Avoid posted bird nesting areas and use designated walkways to the beach. • Keep pets away from bird nesting areas; dogs are not allowed on the beach by law. • Keep the beach clean; food scraps attract bird predators such as raccoons and crows to the beach, and litter can entangle birds and other wildlife. • If you see people disturbing nesting birds, call the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission’s Wildlife Alert hotline at 888404-FWCC (3922).

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MAY 5, 2021

SUBMITTED | GOOGLE MAPS

City, resort may settle in sign lawsuit

Settlement offered in illuminated sign battle Commissioners need more time to consider a litigation settlement offer from the Anna Maria Beach Resort’s owners. BY KRISTIN SWAIN SUN STAFF WRITER | kswain@amisun.com

HOLMES BEACH – Litigation between city leaders and the owners of the Anna Maria Beach Resort concerning the resort’s signage may soon come to an end if both parties can agree on a settlement. At the April 27 commission meeting, Mayor Judy Titsworth said attorneys for the city had officially received the settlement agreement promised during the previous week’s code compliance special magistrate hearing. If accepted, the settlement agreement will bring to an end a lawsuit between the city and resort owners over the illuminated signs at the resort, located in the A-1 district along Gulf Drive. Though a permit was received from the city’s building department for the backlit street-front

sign, LED board and neon-style signage on the resort’s portico, all of the signage is not allowed under city codes. And while commissioners are considering changes to the city’s sign ordinance for that zone, which includes residences as well as hotel/motels, the changes still wouldn’t allow backlit signs but would instead give the roadside sign at the resort a five-year sunset period. Titsworth said the settlement offer received from the resort owners’ attorney would require the city to allow the lighted signage on the portico to remain as-is and lit. The LED board on the roadside sign would not be used and the backlit sign would be reduced to 25% of its capacity. She added that the attorney had requested an answer on the offer by April 28, just one day after the commission meeting. As an additional consideration, Titsworth made a settlement proposal of her own. In light of the Anna Maria Beach Resort’s case being decided in favor of the city by the Holmes Beach special magistrate, she suggested commissioners counter

the offer with one of their own, offering to split the cost of the sign’s installation 50/50 with the resort owners and give a five-year sunset period to the roadside sign, which would be required to be illuminated at 25% capacity during that time. The LED signboard and portico signage would not be allowed. By the end of the five-year period, all of the signs would have to be either removed or completely disconnected. Titsworth said the cost of the sign installation was $46,996. After a little discussion, commissioners agreed to have their attorneys ask those representing the resort’s owners for more time to consider the settlement agreement. They also asked for a date when the sign would be reduced to 25% capacity so they can view it at night and see what impact it has on surrounding residential neighbors. The potential settlement agreement with the Anna Maria Beach Resort has been tentatively placed on the commission’s May 11 work session agenda for discussion.

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MAY 5, 2021

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Island business owner, fitness enthusiast looks to go pro BY JASON SCHAFFER SUN CORRESPONDENT | jschaffer@amisun.com

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ANNA MARIA ISLAND - After a serious illness that left her in and out of the hospital for close to a year, Island resident Kourtney Eason set her sights on a life of health and fitness. Eason is a personal trainer at AMI Fitness, licensed esthetician, health coach, and owner of “The Cryo Chick,” a business that uses alternating cold and warm components to shock away fat cells and rejuvenate the skin. “I was walking my dog and she got off her leash, and when I went to run after her I just fell and face planted - my body just wasn’t having it,” Eason said. It was the moment in her life when she decided to get fit and dedicate herself to fitness, bodybuilding, personal health and fitness competitions. “I decided to drop everything and go to personal training school. While I was in school I was bartending and a customer suggested I enter bikini competitions,” she said, explaining how she began the process of entering competitions.

JASON SCHAFFER | SUN

AMI Fitness trainer and local business owner, Kourtney Eason Personal trainer and business owner, Kourtney Eason is serious about fitness. Eason decided to enter one bikini competition a year starting in 2017. She did well, coming in 5th place in her first show, and winning the next show she entered in 2018. “At that point, I was addicted and hired a coach and won first place in my class, and second place overall in my next competition,” she said. Recently, Eason went on to

win first place at the NPC Mel Chancey Champion Muscle Classic in Tampa. With this win, she is headed to the NPC competition in Charleston, S.C., on May 15. With a finish in the top four at this event, Eason will be eligible to get her pro card. If she does go professional, she said she sees a future training other professional fitness competitors.

Bradenton 2723 Manatee Ave W (941) 226-1230

February 2021 tourist tax collections compared to February 2020

Anna Maria Bradenton Beach Holmes Beach Manatee County Total*

5% 21% 5% 9%

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

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THE SUN

MAY 5, 2021

FESTIVAL: Propane leak shuts down festival early FROM PAGE 1

It was the first festival since 2019; last year’s event was canceled by COVID-19, Kinder said and it will not be repeated this year. “We were disappointed,” she said, but the 20th Annual Bayfest, which also was canceled last year by the pandemic, is set for Oct. 6 on Pine Avenue in Anna Maria. Big crowds throughout the day danced, ate, drank and shopped at the festival on Saturday before the incident. “The weather is absolutely perfect for this, not a cloud in the sky and plenty of shady spots to cool off with a cold beer and some pizza,” said Walter Blevins, who was visiting with his wife from Canton, Ohio. Blevins purchased several items from local vendors on hand, including a bracelet he surprised his wife with. Several bands kept the energy high throughout the day, including Chuck Caudill, Memphis Rub, Jack’D Up and The Dr. Dave Band. Many music lovers

JASON SCHAFFER | SUN

worked up a sweat dancing in front of the stage, while others chose to relax and just tap their feet under one of the large shade trees. “The music has been great,” said Ma-

ria Nunez. “Whoever booked this did a great job. They managed to mix it up but keep a good energy that everybody seems to be enjoying.” The most common sentiment among

attendees seemed to be simply how nice it was to attend something like this after a year of no live entertainment or social gatherings. “After the last year of being locked down and shut in, I was really starting to think we would never have things like this again,” remarked Tim Carrol, who was with a group of seven friends. “To be able to pull up a chair with other people and have some good food and listen to some good music, it’s just fantastic; almost like life is getting back to normal.” In addition to the live music, arts and crafts vendors, food trucks, and beer and wine, there were also some beautiful classic cars on display and ample seating under two large tents. “We’ve got lobster, pizza, ribs, Philly cheesesteaks, and plenty of cold drinks,” Carrol added. “I don’t know about you, but that’s all I need.” - Cindy Lane contributed to this report

DESANTIS: Suspends local COVID orders FROM PAGE 1

to school closings, business closings and emergency actions taken during non-hurricane-related emergencies. The new state law was created by the adoption of Senate Bill 2006 and its companion bill in the Florida House of Representatives. Regarding the actions he’s taking in addition to signing the new state law, DeSantis said, “I’ll also sign an executive order pursuant to that bill invalidating all remaining local emergency COVID orders effective on July 1. To bridge the gap between then and now, I’m going to suspend, under my executive power, the local emergency orders as it related to COVID. I think that’s the evidence-based thing to do. I think folks that are saying they need to be policing people at this point are saying you don’t believe in the vaccine. You don’t believe in the data. You don’t believe in the science. We’ve embraced the vaccines. We’ve embraced the science on it. It’s even better in real life.” Regarding the COVID-19 vaccines themselves, DeSantis said, “It’s available. We want everyone to get it and if you get it just know the reason you get it is because we want people to enjoy themselves and live freely in the state of Florida.”

ISLAND IMPACTSZ

When contacted Monday afternoon regarding the governor’s actions, Anna Maria Mayor Dan Murphy

said, “We will discuss our options at next Thursday’s (May 13) city commission meeting.” The city of Bradenton Beach has no COVID-related emergency orders in effect other than its ongoing declaration of a local state of emergency. When contacted Monday, City Attorney Ricinda Perry said, “I plan to recommend termination of the local state of emergency.” That anticipated action is expected to occur during Wednesday’s weekly emergency commission meeting. Regarding the city hall mask requirement, Perry said, “I need to read the Governor’s order, but I believe all regulations should be lifted. That’s an administrative office requirement that would also go away. City Clerk Terri Sanclemente confirmed that wearing a mask will now be up to each individual but will not be required inside city hall.” Holmes Beach Mayor Judy Titsworth said, “I urge everyone to get the vaccines. Unfortunately, they are not available for children.” When asked if the city plans to continue its mask requirement inside city hall and at other city facilities, Titsworth said, “I think it’s important.” The city commission meets again on Tuesday, May 11, and the governor’s order and its impacts are expected to be topics of discussion. Holmes Beach Police Chief Bill Tokajer said, “If the commission decides they want to keep that mask order for the city building and the City Field, that’s

SOURCE: FLORIDA DEPARTMENT OF HEALTH

something they will address at that time. If they want to go with the more relaxed approach, then they’ll make that decision at that time as well. “As for the businesses, we have left it up to them to police their own businesses. If they want to continue to err on the side of caution and have people wear masks inside their businesses it’s up to them to post signs and to discuss it with those not wearing masks. If someone refuses to comply, they can call the police and we would respond and take whatever action is necessary,” Tokajer said. Without having seen anything in writing from the governor’s office yet, Tokajer was asked if he believes the police department can still trespass, at the request of the business representative, a patron who refuses to wear a mask inside the business. “Yes, we do. Any business can refuse business to any patron as long as it’s justified,” Tokajer said.

FEBRUARY 3, 2021

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New members join parks committee Two more new members are stepping up to volunteer their services on the Holmes Beach Parks and Beautification Committee. During an April 27 meeting, city commissioners voted to accept the applications of both Katheryn Sandberg and Christian Ulanch. Both Sandberg and Ulanch will serve in alternate positions on the committee, which are nonvoting positions unless a full member of the committee is absent during a meeting. A planned swearingin ceremony for the two is scheduled to take place during the May 5 parks meeting, the last before the group breaks for summer with meetings resuming in the fall.

New code enforcement officer hired

JOE HENDRICKS | SUN

Ronald Peterson is the city of Bradenton Beach’s new code enforcement officer. Peterson was introduced to the city commission on April 22. Mayor John Chappie noted Peterson was born and raised in Bradenton and his sister works for Manatee County. Peterson replaces Gail Garneau, who retired in 2020.

THE SUN

REAL ESTATE

MAY 5, 2021

Good grief, it’s almost hurricane season

et me be the first to welcome you to the 2021 North Atlantic hurricane season. Technically, it doesn’t start until June 1, however, based on what we lived through last hurricane season in the middle of a 100-year pandemic, you can’t start too early to prepare. On April 8, Colorado State University released its predictions for the 2021 hurricane season, predicting an above-average season with 17 named storms, eight hurricanes and four major hurricanes. The average hurricane season is considered 14 named storms, seven hurricanes and three major hurricanes. In addition, the National Hurricane Center will begin tropical storm warnings this year on May 15 just to add a couple of more weeks to our “cone” watching. And we have a new list of names - one of the things I always look forward to. We start with Ana, then Bill, Claudette, Danny and Elsa for the first five. Wanda is the last and none of us ever wants to see

Castles in the Sand LOUISE BOLGER the Greek alphabet again in our lifetime. By now, even if you have only lived through one hurricane season, you know what to do. Last May, I said that preparing for hurricanes was the exact opposite of preparing for a COVID-19 lockdown in many ways. At the beginning of hurricane season, we clean out our freezers in preparation for losing power for an extended period, as opposed to the beginning of the COVID-19 lockdown, when many of us filled our freezers so we didn’t need to do too much big-store shopping. However, both natural disasters still require stocking up on non-perishables, water, batteries, canned goods, don’t

forget the manual can opener or buy pop tops, ice to get you through a few days, full gas tanks and prescriptions for you and your family. Now is also the time to think about those window and door coverings if they’re old and vulnerable to high winds. Start planning on where you will move outdoor furniture, plants, awnings and other objects that can become flying missiles in a storm. Boats in the water that can’t be moved to dry storage need to have their lines doubled up and extra lines added. The mymanatee.org website has a lot of detailed information concerning disaster kits and important papers that should be in a place that can be quickly accessed if you need to evacuate. Also, know where your local shelter is. Even though you think you’ll never need a shelter you may be surprised; I was during Hurricane Irma. Since flooding goes along with hur-

ricanes, understand which flood zone you live in and even if not required by a lender, purchase flood insurance. The Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) manages the subsidized program and it’s a prudent investment for all homeowners. Speaking of flood insurance, FEMA announced an overview of flood insurance premium rate increases that will go into effect on Oct. 1 of this year. This increase was delayed from last year after the agency received pressure from Congress to delay the increases. Keep in mind that Florida is in the crosshairs of FEMA, which always runs a deficit since 35% of their policies are in the state of Florida. More about this as we get closer to the October date. Since I welcomed you to hurricane season, I hope I can also be one of the first to say on Nov. 30, thank goodness it’s over. Be prepared, and we’ll all get through another year together. Stay safe.

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MAY 5, 2021

THE SUN

TURTLE TIPS

WILDLIFE INC. EDUCATION AND REHABILITATION CENTER | SUBMITTED

Fox orphans rescued Wildlife Inc. Education and Rehabilitation Center in Bradenton Beach received these orphan fox babies after their mother was trapped and released elsewhere. The trapper did not know she had pups. More rescue traps have been set in case more pups are out there.

During sea turtle season, May 1 – Oct. 31, please follow these tips: • Turn off lights visible from the beach and close blinds from sundown to sunrise; lights confuse nesting sea turtles and may cause them to go back to sea and drop their eggs in the water, where they won’t hatch. Light can also attract hatchlings away from the water. • Don’t use flashlights, lanterns or camera flashes on the beach at night. • Remove all objects from the sand from sundown to sunrise; they can deter sea turtles from nesting and can disorient hatchlings. • Fill in the holes you dig in the sand and level sandcastles before leaving the beach; they can obstruct or trap nesting and hatching sea turtles, which cannot live long out of the water. • Don’t use wish lanterns or fireworks; they litter the beach and Gulf. • Do not trim trees and plants that shield the beach from lights. • Never touch a sea turtle; it’s the law. If you see people disturbing turtles, call the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission’s Wildlife Alert hotline at 888-404FWCC (3922).

Perico Bay Club—As Good As It Gets!! PENDING-1270 Spoonbill Landings Cir

Another One SOLD/1207 Spoonbill Landings 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 www.EdgewaterRealEstateInc.com

SEA TURTLE CONSERVANCY | SUBMITTED

Where’s Bortie? Loggerhead sea turtle Bortie is headed away from Anna Maria Island Gulf waters, where she was spotted on April 17. Turtle watchers thought she might nest again on AMI - she was satellite-tagged after laying a nest in June 2018 on Coquina Beach (see the red star on the map) - but she swam by, perhaps because red tide appeared in local waters last month. Bortie competed in the Sea Turtle Conservancy’s 11th Annual Tour de Turtles in 2018, placing 10th out of 13 contestants with 351 logged miles. Turtle nesting season began locally on May 1 and ends on Oct. 31 Please keep beachfront lights out for nesting!

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THE SUN

MAY 5, 2021

Car crashes into Linger Longer resort A car headed south on Gulf Drive crashed into the Linger Longer resort building at 302 and 304 Gulf Drive South in Bradenton Beach on Saturday evening. The beachfront resort was previously owned by former Mayor Bill Shearon and was sold after Shearon’s recent passing. According to Bradenton Beach Police Chief Sam Speciale, the vehicle crashed through the Linger Longer sign and also damaged a water check valve before coming to rest. The car sustained significant damage and Speciale said the driver was arrested on suspicion of DUI by either the Manatee County Sheriff’s Office or the Florida Highway Patrol. As of press time Monday, a copy of the official crash report was not available to The Sun.

SUBMITTED

A car crashed into the Linger Longer resort Saturday evening. The car involved in Saturday’s single-car accident sustained significant damage.

There has never been a better time to sell your property

ANNA MARIA 209 South Bay Boulevard

Shellie Young

LONGBOAT KEY 4125 Gulf of Mexico Drive #S201 Moriah Taliaferro

$2,850,000

941.713.5458

LOOP OF NW BRADENTON $3,998,000 941.504.9910

There has never been a better time to sell your property

9641 18th Avenue Circle NW

Martha Marlar

$949,900

941.812.0455

BRADENTON

9601 9th Avenue NW $2,249,000 Louis Wery 941.232.3001

10327 Bayview Drive $1,500,000 Jason Skowronski 941.812.6090

RIVERVIEW LANDINGS

BRADENTON

2432 Landings Circle $740,000 Martha Marlar 941.812.0455

5011 Mangrove Point Road $535,000 Joe Ebert 941.932.1487

LAKEWOOD RANCH | 941.907.9541 SARASOTA - DOWNTOWN | 941.364.4000 LONGBOAT KEY | 941.383.1526 VENICE TO PUNTA GORDA | 941.412.3323

RENTALS | 941.487.6019

Sotheby’s International Realty® and the Sotheby’s International Realty logo are registered service marks used with permission. Each office is independently owned and operated. Equal Housing Opportunity. Property information herein is derived from various sources including, but not limited to, county records and multiple listing services, and may include approximations. All information is deemed accurate.

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MAY 5, 2021

THE SUN

MIKE FIELD | SUN

Bayou beauty A recent sunset lights up the sky over Bimini Bayou on Anna Maria Island.

LOCALLY KNOWN. GLOBALLY CONNECTED. SINCE 1976.

BAY ISLES 500 Harbor Point Road Jenifer Schwell 941-780-0968 A4491328 $5,595,000

THE BEACH RESIDENCES 1300 Benjamin Franklin Drive 1208 Susan Fox & Jonathan Fox, PA 941-544-6648 A4492990 $3,900,000

WEST WIND SHORES 103 75th Street Kathy Marshall 941-900-9777 A4495220 $3,200,000

TENCON BEACH 1511 Gulf Of Mexico Drive 202 Carol Aviles 941-356-6777 A4481414 $3,075,000

HARBOUR WALK 541 Fore Drive Debbie Vogler 941-705-3328 A4496407 $1,750,000

BOLLETTIERI RESORT 3608 W 54th Drive W J101 & J102 Leah Secondo 941-545-4430 A4497828 $850,000

BAY ISLES 531 Harbor Cay Drive Maureen Horn 941-539-3384 A4494952 $3,800,000

WEST WIND SHORES 216 68th Street Rudy Dudon 941-234-3991 A4496801 $3,295,000

ANNA MARIA ISLAND 607, 609, 611 Fern Street & 610 Rose Street Hannah Hillyard & George Myers 941-744-7358 A4497933 $5,900,000

SANDHAMN 5382 Sandhamn Place Maria Beck PA & Jalina Beck 646-531-4118 A4496985 $2,950,000

SARABAY ESTATES 2708 Bay Drive Cheryl Roberts 941-266-1450 A4494263 $2,750,000

TIDY ISLAND 73 Tidy Island Boulevard Kathy Valente & Gregory Zies, LLC 941-685-6767 A4477926 $650,000

RUNAWAY BAY 1801 Gulf Drive N 215 Laura Rulon & Betsy Hagen 941-896-2757 A4497778 $300,000

PALMA SOLA BAY CLUB 3439 79th Street Circle W 201 Pamela Miller 614-632-2801 A4496134 $595,000

NEW CONSTRUCTION

MSC MORTGAGE | MSC TITLE | MS&C COMMERCIAL NEW HOMES & CONDOMINIUMS

LAGUNA AT RIVIERA DUNES 615 Riviera Dunes Way 205 Cheryl Roberts 941-266-1450 A4497161 $429,000

888.552.5228 | MICHAELSAUNDERS.COM

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BILLS: Vacation rental bills defeated FROM PAGE 1

inform their users of the policy provisions. The proposed legislation included a proposed $882,716 state appropriation for implementation and enforcement. In the Florida League of Cities (FLC) latest “On Tap @ the Cap” legislative update, it was noted SB 522 died in the Senate Rules Committee. “The original bill would have preempted all regulations of vacation rentals to the state, including the inspection and licensing of vacation rentals. The League worked with various stakeholders to amend the bill throughout the session to narrow the preemption. The (amended) bill would have protected existing vacation rental regulations but preempt cities from specifically regulating advertising platforms,” the FLC update noted. Co-sponsored by Rep. Jason Fischer (R-Jacksonville), Rep. Lauren Melo (R-Naples) and Rep. Anthony Sabatini (R-Howey-in-the-Hills), HB 219 sought to require advertising platforms to collect and remit specified taxes imposed for certain transactions; preempt regulation of vacation rentals to the state; prohibit local laws, ordinances or regulations from allowing or requiring inspections or licensing of public lodging establishments, including vacation rentals; and require licenses issued by the Division of Hotels and the Department of Business and Professional Regulation to be displayed conspicuously to the public inside the licensed establishment. The House bill was never fully amended to match the Senate bill that ultimately focused squarely on the remittance and collection of taxes by online advertising platforms.

The House companion bill, HB 219, died in the House Ways and Means Committee. “HB 219 would have undone any local registration, inspection or licensing requirements specific to short-term rentals adopted since 2011,” the FLC update noted.

ANNA MARIA RESPONSE

As has been the case for several years now, the city of Anna Maria and the city’s contracted lobbyist, Chip Case, were again very active in combating the proposed vacation rental legislation. This year’s efforts included the city taking over the management of the Home Rule Florida website, www. homerulefl.com, which provides information about proposed vacation rental legislation. The website encourages citizens to contact the governor and the state legislators and provides templates and contact information to make those communication efforts easier. When asked about this year’s outcome, Mayor Dan Murphy said, “While we are relieved that this bill failed to get to the floor, we are fully cognizant that the lobbyists for big business will be back again next session, if not sooner. They have deep pockets and have gained ground during each session over the past five years. “This year it was the ‘wolf in sheep’s clothing’ approach, stating they ‘only’ wanted the advertising platforms preempted to state control. By doing so, they would have taken away our ability to regulate occupancy requirements, which is at the very core of addressing noise and congestion issues and complaints,” Murphy said.

While we are relieved that this bill failed to get to the floor, we are fully cognizant that the lobbyists for big business will be back again next session, if not sooner.” Dan Murphy, Anna Maria Mayor

City Commission Chair Carol Carter again helped lead the city’s efforts to preserve its home rule rights. “I want to thank all the people on Home Rule Florida for responding to all the alerts that we sent out about opposing the bills. Once again, the people who care about this situation have made a difference and we were able to keep our home rule rights for vacation rentals for another year,” Carter said. “Our lobbyist, Chip Case, has been instrumental in these efforts for quite a number of years now. He and the Florida League of Cities have helped voice our concerns to key state legislators in Tallahassee. Chip works very closely with the lobbyist from the Florida League of Cities and we appreciate all of their hard work and effectiveness,” Carter said.

MAY 5, 2021

Florida license plate providing funds to the arts BY JASON SCHAFFER SUN CORRESPONDENT | jschaffer@amisun.com

BRADENTON - Whether a local resident or visitor to Anna Maria Island, you have probably noticed the wide variety of Florida license plates available to SUBMITTED residents. From education, Florida’s “State of the Arts” liwhales, support of the cense plate revenue gets funds seas and over a hundred to nonprofits. more, these plates do a great service to nonprofit organizations. At a recent event at the Manatee Performing Arts Center, Bradenton Area Convention and Visitors Bureau (CVB) Destination Sales Managers Aimee Blenker and Vanessa Zigich gave an update on how funds from the “State of the Arts” license plate will continue to benefit area art-related nonprofit organizations. The Florida Arts License Plate Program was created by the Legislature in 1994, and since its inception, funds collected through the sale of these plates are distributed to the counties where the plates are sold, and are used to support arts programs, organizations, and activities within the specific county. The counties are required to designate a recipient organization to administer the funds which will support arts activities within the specific county. Counties receive funding directly from the Department of Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles. “To date, the art plate has generated over $10 million for the state’s art programs,” said Zigich, who added the CVB receives $20 from the sale of each art tag in Manatee County. To be eligible to receive funds from the plate program, the organization must be a Manatee County-based nonprofit arts organization designated as a 501(c)(3) or 501(c) (4). Manatee County based educational institutions can also apply. Any educational institution can apply, but the funding must be for a program specifically for a program involving the arts. This money is specifically for artists fees, production or expedition expenses and supplies. Administrative expenses, promotions, marketing, and other similar expenses are not covered by the program.

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MAY 5, 2021

BEACH BEAT HOLMES BEACH

ANNA MARIA ISLAND TURTLE WATCH AND SHOREBIRD MONITORING | SUBMITTED

First nest Skip Coyne, a volunteer with Anna Maria Island Turtle Watch and Shorebird Monitoring, checks out the first loggerhead sea turtle nest of the 2021 season on Anna Maria Island. A false crawl, or abandoned nesting attempt, also was logged last week. Turtle season ends on Oct. 31.

NESTING NEWS Turtle nests laid: 1 (Record: 544 in 2019) False crawls: 1 Nests hatched: 0 Hatchlings hatched: 0 (Record: 35,788 in 2018) Nest disorientations: 0

4/20, 7:43 p.m., driving with an expired tag, possession of marijuana, 2900 Gulf Drive. The officer stopped the subject after the license plate identified the expired plate. He also smelled marijuana in the car and the driver was given a code violation citation for misdemeanor possession of the drug. 4/21, 12:24 a.m., marijuana ordinance violation, Kingfish Boat Ramp, 752 Manatee Ave. The officer on patrol found a male and female on a hammock after hours with marijuana and paraphernalia nearby. 4/21, 11:30 p.m., trespass after warning, Manatee Beach, 4000 Gulf Drive. A homeless person who had been trespassed last year was caught trying to spend the night at the beach again. 4/22, 11:06 a.m., battery, 3100 Gulf Drive. A driver contacted police saying he was travelling north on Gulf Drive when the object of his complaint was tailgating him and he slowed down. The suspect drove around the complainant and spat water at him as he passed. Both parties talked to the officer and the complainant said he wanted to press charges. The officer wrote a capias request to the state attorney’s office to investigate. 4/23, 11:49 p.m., noise complaint, 5501 Holmes Blvd. 4/24, 2:05 a.m., marijuana code violation, 100 Aqua Lane. Two people were spotted in a pickup truck smoking pot. They got a code violation citation

THE SUN

and the police got the contraband to destroy. 4/25, 1:59 a.m., battery, Freckled Fin, 5335 Gulf Drive. The officer was dispatched to the restaurant to investigate a fight and found no fight, but people milling around the street. He talked with a male who had been punched in the face. He declined medical care and refused to prosecute and the officer left. 4/26, 1:30 p.m., indecent exposure, Manatee Beach, 4000 Gulf Drive. The complainants reported a 66-year-old man repeatedly exposed himself to them while sunbathing. The victims identified him. 4/26, 10:05 p.m., noise violation, 2121 77th St.

OBITUARIES Freda M. Cole Freda M. Cole. February 13, 1926 - April 27, 2021 Freda M. Cole, 95, of Bradenton Beach, died April 27, 2021. She is survived by her husband, Gail; daughters; Debbie (Ed) Morken and Libby (Tom) Taylor; and sons; Gail R. II (Jackie) and Ralph (Beth); 14 grandchildren and 13 great-grandchildren. She was preceded in death by daughter, Marcy (Larry) Miller. A Memorial Service Mass will be at St Bernard Catholic Church, Holmes Beach, on June 26, 2021. Arrangements handled by Griffith-Cline Funeral Home.

THE SUN

SPORTS

MAY 5, 2021

Youth soccer fills air at The Center BY MONICA SIMPSON SPECIAL TO THE SUN

ANNA MARIA – Although the location of the Island’s community center is not literally the center of Anna Maria Island, The Center is the central gathering place for Islandarea families to play sports, see their friends and family, and support the Island as a community. With the normal cyclical rise and fall in sports participation on the Island, as well as changes in dynamics and demographics, the number of youth sports participants has diminished to all-time low numbers in recent years. But the feeling of The Center’s athletic fields was alive and electric again last Tuesday night. As in the classic days of Island youth sports, not a parking spot could be found around 407 Magnolia Ave. Sounds of cheers and the referee’s whistle could be heard from blocks away. Lawn chairs filled with parents and grandparents lined each of the many soccer fields. Some fans stayed on their feet so they could watch the action on multiple fields. Grandparents Karen and Mike LaPensee reminisce about the days that their son, Greg, was a kid playing on the community center field. Now the LaPensees’ grandchildren, including Preston, are running the pitch and scoring the goals. LaPensee scored one goal for Beach Bums along with teammate Noah Shoulson in the tie against Tidy MD in the Wednesday night games, played on back-to-back nights to make up for the rain cancellations from the previous week. Youth soccer opened to kids as young as 3 years old several years ago with a clinic-type format. Volunteer parent/coaches like P.J. Smargisso and Ryan Moss help the very young developing players learn a few critical skills while growing the love of the game. For years, Moss has given back to The Center as a coach for both of his sons’ teams. Mason and Miles Moss have benefited from the experience their father has gained over the years, including his time as an adult player in the co-ed soccer league. In the first game Wednesday night, Mason Moss scored the two goals in the tie ballgame for Tidy MD. Goal-

MONICA SIMPSON | SUN

Island-area kids pack the pitch at The Center every Tuesday night learning the skills of the game in clinics and recreation league play. keeping credits were given to Stryder Petit, Andre Harwood and Shane Bradley. Likewise, Smargisso – who more recently expanded his family with two daughters – has begun volunteering his time as a coach in the clinic level as he continues to play adult soccer himself. Moss and Smargisso are not the only parent-players who coach and support their kids at The Center on the pitch. At least temporarily hanging up his boots, David Zaccagnino continues to coach his sons, Jesse and Jack. Longtime Islanders Jason Sato and Scott Rudacille continue the tradition of youth sports at the Island community center with their sons, Dylan and Brandon Sato and Cale and Camden Rudacille, who are playing once again in the youth soccer league. Sato had six saves for the Beach Bums squad last Wednesday night with a single save by teammate Charlie Serra. Helping the Blalock Walters team capture the win against AM Bath Time, Cale Rudacille had five saves in the game, playing the key position his father dominated in the co-ed adult soccer league for a number of years.

The Satos and Rudacilles have, for generations, played sports as children and adults on the Island. The Center’s Executive Director, Chris Culhane, is no different. Culhane spent his youth playing Center sports. Following in his footsteps have been his two daughters, and in the current soccer league, Chris’ son, Maddox, continues to battle it out on the pitch just like his dad, who plays in the adult league. The tradition of fathers and mothers volunteering to coach their children’s teams continues at The Center. An even stronger tie to the Island’s community center exists as generation after generation of Island area residents, young and old, test their soccer skills on the pitch.

SUN SCOREBOARD TUESDAY, APRIL 27 YOUTH CO-ED SOCCER WEEK #2 EIGHT- TO 10-YEAR-OLD LEAGUE

WEDNESDAY, APRIL 28 YOUTH CO-ED SOCCER WEEK #3 EIGHT- TO 10-YEAR-OLD LEAGUE Beach Bums Tidy MD

(0-1-2) 2 (1-0-1) 2

Bridge Tender Shady Lady

(2-1-0) 0 (1-0-1) 1

11- TO 13-YEAR-OLD LEAGUE Blalock Walters AM Bath Time

(3-0-0) 4 (1-1-0) 2

The Gitt Team HSH

(1-1-1) 6 (0-2-0) 1

THURSDAY, APRIL 29 ADULT CO-ED SOCCER WEEK #3 Flynn Law Salty Printing

(3-0-0) 5 (1-2-0) 3

Sato Real Estate Sandbar

(0-3-0) 3 (1-2-0) 5

Beach Bums Shady Lady

3 3

Slim’s Place C.A.B.B.

(2-1-0) 4 (2-0-1) 5

Bridge Tender Solid Rock Construction

3 0

Killer Bait Beach Bums

(0-3-0) 1 (2-0-1) 7

11- TO 13-YEAR-OLD LEAGUE Blalock Walters HSH The Gitt Team Grooms Auto

4 3 2 2

MAY 5, 2021

FUN IN THE SUN

Across 1 Isla surrounder 5 Real cutup 10 Italian volcano 14 TV series that had flashbacks, flashforwards and multiple timelines 15 Kemper of "The Office" 16 Truant GI 17 *Brain trust member 19 Meander 20 Afflicted with illness, say 21 Gastric woe 22 *Nixon's cocker spaniel 25 PC key 26 Reel Big Fish music genre 29 Pigs out (on) 30 Flying frenemy of Godzilla 32 "Beaten" ways 34 One who is rotten to Answers to 04-28-21 Crossword Puzzle.

the core? 37 Quartet member 38 *Influential record company named for co-founding brothers Leonard and Phil 40 Serb or Croat 41 Went over again and again 43 Razz 44 Geometric given 45 Ox tail? 47 Hankering 48 Toward the stern 50 *Playful question spoiled by caller ID 53 2010 Supreme Court appointee 55 Shows derision for 59 Boast 60 *The USS Iowa, e.g. 62 Toon mail-order company 63 Be of use to 64 Sty sound 65 Swamp stalk

THE SUN

66 "Aw, fudge!" 67 Corddry of TV's "Mom" Down 1 Help for the needy 2 Animal on the Cubs' 2016 World Series rings 3 Space Race inits. 4 Room often with a slanted ceiling 5 Pulled quickly 6 Early Mexicans 7 "Hogan's Heroes" colonel 8 German article 9 Crimson, e.g. 10 Bluegrass legend Scruggs 11 With 28-Down, words to a cheater ... or an honest hint to the answers to starred clues 12 Original 13 At the ready 18 Heart sonograms, familiarly 21 Food safety agcy. 23 Paleozoic and Cenozoic 24 Retina cells 26 Exchange barbs 27 Curly cabbage 28 See 11-Down 31 Church area 33 The Cardiff Giant, notably 34 __ Bath & Beyond 35 Zap with a beam 36 Equally matched 38 __ En-lai

39 Iron-rich blood pigment 42 Portent 43 Giggly sound 45 "Don't you agree?" 46 Resides

48 1556-1605 Mogul emperor 49 Screwball comedy 51 Celestial red giant 52 Director Welles 54 Like good Scotch

56 LaBeouf of "Transformers" films 57 Informal contraction 58 Toll rd. 60 Prohibition 61 "__ Maria"

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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 AMI TURTLE WATCH needs donations & silent action items for our FUNDRAISER. We can pick up! Call or text 941-713-6531 ANNOUNCEMENT: Who wants to play bridge outside on the patio, or in the park, social distanced and face-masked, Call Kathleen at 314-324-5921 THE BEST VOLUNTEER position on the island. The AMI Historical Museum needs docents and bread makers. Call Kathy Primeau at 989-560-6381. ROSER FOOD BANK needs donations of cash and non-perishable food, PAPER & PERSONAL HYGIENE PRODUCTS. Donations boxes are located at the Church, Moose Club, and Walgreen’s.

CARPET CLEANING QUALITY COUNTS. CARPET cleaning. Upholstery cleaning. Tile & grout cleaning. Island's favorite cleaner. Manatee Chamber Member. Great price/free estimates. Call 941-756-1082

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

COMMERCIAL SALES, RENT & LEASE 4 UNIT RESORT style 4-plex: $1,999,900 Holmes Beach fixer upper with View of beach on Gulf Dr. Duplex Near Beach Totally renovated near Beach $795,000. Island Real Estate Call Alan Galletto 941-232-2216

EMPLOYMENT Videographer. Great opportunity for extra weekend income. Responsibilities include filming and internet posting of weekly Sunday church service. Please email resume to office@ gloriadeilutheran.com

Call us today! 941-778-3986

BEACH RESORTS (Smuggler's Cove & Umbrella Beach) - looking for full time maintenance personnel. Duties include opening of resort in the mornings, handling work orders, painting, etc. Saturday required. Please call 941-778-6667 MAY 12, 2021 11am to 1:00 4:30 to 6:30 At The Chateau Anna Maria, Holmes Beach in the Banquet Room We’re Hiring ! Our three family Restaurants located Upstate New York on Lake George Chefs, Prep Chefs, Pizza Chefs & front of the house all positions . Above Competitive pay & housing available upon request. Come join us for the summer season June-October. If you can’t attend job fair please contact us at the emails listed. catespizza52@gmail.com Cate’s Italian Garden & Diamond Point Grille info@BLchateau.com Chateau on the lake

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

JSAN CORPORATION Renovations Construction & Handyman Services 941-243-0995 Lic# CRC1332505 jsancorporation@gmail. com Flooring, Drywall, Painting, Repairs, Kitchen and Bathrooms, Trim & Doors. Free Estimates. Credit Cards Accepted. ISLE TILE EXPERT INSTALLATION of floors, custom showers, backsplash, deck/lanai. Licensed and insured. References available. Call Chris at 941-3028759 please visit website: isletileservices.com “HAMMERED HOMES” (SAVING HOMES SINCE 1984) Handyman services, renovations. Free Estimates & Consulting. Call before making decision, save money. 941-778-3206

LANDSCAPING & LAWN CARE

HOME IMPROVEMENTS

R. GAROFALO’S Interlocking brick pavers, driveways, patios, pool decks. Free estimates. Licensed & Insured. Call Rafael 941-778-4823 or Veronik 941-526-7941

TILE! TILE! TILE! All variations of tile supplied and installed. Quality workmanship. Prompt, reliable, many Island references. Free estimates. Neil 941-726-3077

STRAIGHT SHOT LANDSCAPE. Specializing in Old Florida Seashell driveways and scapes. Also Rock, Mulch, & Soil. Free estimates. Call Shark Mark 941-301-6067

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

KERN CONSTRUCTION NEW Homes & Remodel. Design/Build. Since 1968. License # CBC 1261150. Call Mike Kern 941-7781115 MASTER CARPENTER. Decks-Docks-FencingStairs & Railing. Free Estimates. Handyman Work. Call Richard 941448-3571

SEARAY SPRINKLER SERVICES. Repairs, Additions, Drip, Timer Head Adjustments. Call Rick today Cell 720-299-1661 Office 941518-6326

LOST & FOUND LOST ON MANATEE BEACH. 18" herringbone chain (4mm thick, square link, round clasp, 10k) with 3/4" Spanish gold coin pendant. Please call 585-755-3894. Contact Dennis

MAY 5, 2021

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 40-YEAR PAINTER from Kentucky. Hourly rate guaranteed savings over contractor price. Neat, dependable, equipped, insured. Highly productive. A+ rated by Better Business Bureau for 40 years. 502-817-6786. aapressurewash.com

POOL SERVICES FOUR SEASONS POOL SERVICE AND CHEMICAL SERVICES. Certified Pool Operator. 10 + Years Experience. Residential/commercial. Chemical Service Licensed & Insured. Call Dennis Clark 941-7375657 COLE'S TROPICAL POOL SERVICE Call Cole Bowers for all your pool maintenance needs! Affordable and Dependable!! 941-7131893

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

REAL ESTATE HOMES & CONDOS FOR SALE GULF FRONT CONDOS Vista Grande, WestWinds– CANAL FRONT HOME Holmes Beach –DUPLEXES & MORE Island Real Estate ASK big Alan Galletto 941-232-2216 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.

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. ANNUAL 2BR/2BA STEPS to Beach. Tile floors, dining area, deck with Gulf view, carport, storage room, washer/dryer. $1850/ mo. + utilities. First, last & security deposit. Call 941778-3427

RENTAL WANTED SEEKING AMI ANNUAL RENTAL Call Kelly Gitt Keller Williams Realty 941799-9299

RENTALS: SEASONAL & VACATION TIFFANY PLACE Gulf Front Condo for Rent Incredible views from living room and master bedroom. 2BR/2BA Green Real Estate Call 941-778-0455 SEASONAL RENTAL in PALMA SOLA. 3BR/2BA weekly or monthly rates. Contact Barb Grace 941201-2190 ANNA MARIA ISLAND CONDOS Large pool, beach access, free WiFi, 1BR 6 months $1550/mo. redekercondosonami.com Tim 941-704-7525.

TRANSPORTATION AMI TAXI metered-on-callcards accepted. Airport: Tampa $95, Sarasota $40, Clearwater $85, Orlando $195. Call 941-447-8372 or 941-447-8376. amitaxi4u@ gmail.com, www.amitaxi. com ANYTIME TRANSPORTATION to all Airports, Casino, etc. Tampa $70. Sarasota $35. Pets welcome. Very dependable. Reasonable rates. Contact Jeanne. 941-779-5095 AIRPORT RIDES- Tampa, St. Pete, Sarasota. Reasonable rates! Call or text Anna 941-932-1600

FREE

HOME DELIVERY

AMI 1BR ANNUAL CONDO. Nicely furnished, WIFI, cable all utilities included. Small complex, big pool. Steps to beach. $1650/mo. Call 941-447-3071

Call for Details

778-3986

www.amisun.com

MAY 5, 2021

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MAY 5, 2021

Anna Maria Island Sun May 5, 2021

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