City ends rental ban
City leaders vote unanimously to rescind the vacation rental moratorium blocking rentals in the city.
BY KRISTIN SWAIN SUN STAFF WRITER | kswain@amisun.com
HOLMES BEACH – City leaders opted to end the moratorium stopping vacation rentals to tourists in the city more than two weeks before it was scheduled to end. Commissioners voted unanimously at the urging of the public, Mayor Judy Titsworth and city staff to end the moratorium early with an effective date of Nov. 2, 16 days before it was scheduled to expire.
During discussion at the Oct. 29 special meeting, Titsworth said that she expected the first pass of debris removal in Holmes Beach to be completed by Nov. 2, one of the benchmarks in hurricane recovery
after Helene and Milton that she wanted to reach before inviting guests back to the city. She said she wanted the moratorium to be lifted as quickly as possible, noting that it’s up to property owners to determine if their rentals are safe and ready to rent.
“I think we did a good job,” she said of the moratorium, which was enacted on Oct. 2 in response to Hurricanes Helene and Milton, both of which caused widespread devastation in the city. “It took guts to do what we did.”
Holmes Beach Police Chief Bill Tokajer agreed, stating that he felt it was time for the government to take a step back and allow property owners and rental agents to do their own due diligence. Tokajer said that if the city is safe enough to reopen Anna Maria Elementary School on Nov. 4, he feels that it’s safe enough to welcome vacationers to return.
SEE RENTAL, PAGE 18
Ferry service resumes in Bradenton Beach
Ferry service to Anna Maria is expected to resume soon.
BY JOE HENDRICKS SUN CORRESPONDENT | jhendricks@amisun.com
BRADENTON BEACH – Gulf Islands Ferry service between downtown Bradenton and the Bradenton Beach Pier resumed on Friday.
The county’s contracted ferry service is operating free of charge. Ferry service to the recently installed temporary floating dock in Anna Maria, near the hurricanedamaged City Pier, is expected to resume soon.
Palmetto resident Cathy Brown and Parrish resident Kim Schuerman were the first two passengers to make a post-hurricane trip from Bradenton to Bradenton Beach. Mayor John Chappie and City Attorney Ricinda Perry were on hand to greet them, Capt. Nicholas Francis and mate Terrie Birkett when they arrived.
Anna Maria debris removal responsibility shifts
Debris removal is now the responsibility of the property owner.
BY JOE HENDRICKS SUN CORRESPONDENT | jhendricks@amisun.com
ANNA MARIA – The deadlines have passed to place hurricane-related household and landscaping debris streetside to be removed by the city. But both types of debris piles can still be found alongside city streets even though debris removal is now the responsibility of the property owner. Oct. 24 was the city’s deadline to place hurricane-damaged household goods curbside to be removed by Oct. 27. Oct. 31 was the deadline to place landscaping debris curbside to be removed by Nov. 3.
On Nov. 1, Mayor Dan Murphy and the city commission discussed
hurricane-related debris removal, street damage, swimming pool dewatering and FEMA damage assessments.
DEBRIS REMOVAL
Murphy said city staff had already identified approximately 150 new household debris piles placed curbside since the Oct. 24 deadline. After acknowledging that number will probably grow, Murphy said city staff is recording the debris pile locations that include non-hurricanerelated debris placed in front of vacation rental homes and construction sites. He said Waste Management picked up some of the post-deadline debris piles even though they’re not obligated to do so.
Murphy said the city will continue assessing post-deadline debris place-
SEE DEBRIS, PAGE 13
JOE HENDRICKS | SUN
Mayor John Chappie greeted the first post-hurricane ferry arrival in Bradenton Beach.
Commission supports mayor’s pier repair request
A large portion of the City Pier walkway was destroyed by Hurricane Milton.
BY JOE HENDRICKS SUN CORRESPONDENT | jhendricks@amisun.com
ANNA MARIA – City commissioners
support Mayor Dan Murphy’s request to pursue a proposed $331,992 contract with the George F. Young engineering firm to assist with the repair of the hurricane-damaged City Pier.
On Oct. 9, hurricane force winds and/or a tornado or waterspout associated with Hurricane Milton destroyed 75-100 yards of the City Pier walkway, leaving the city-owned buildings at the T-end of the pier stranded in Tampa Bay with no pedestrian access.
During the Nov. 1 emergency city commission meeting, Murphy and the commission discussed the proposal received from George F. Young Project Manager Jeremy Lunsford the previous day.
The proposal includes assessing the damage to the pier and what remains of the pier walkway and concrete
pilings, locating the submerged remains of the pilings that snapped off during the hurricane, engineering the pier repairs, handling the extensive permitting process and providing project management and oversight for the yet-to-be-selected marine construction firm that will repair the pier.
After acknowledging the commissioners hadn’t had much time to review the proposal, Murphy sought commission census to accept the bid,
study the bid for another week or issue a more time-consuming request for proposals (RFP) that would extend the repair project permitting process beyond the 180-day emergency permitting period currently allowed by the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers. Murphy stressed the importance of completing the expedited emergency permitting process during the 180-day time frame if the desire is to get the pier reopened as soon as possible.
He and former commissioner Brian
Seymour noted the standard permitting process for the construction of the current pier took about a year and half
Participating by phone, Commissioner Jon Crane said he was “underwhelmed” by the initial engineering and design work the George F. Young firm did on the Reimagining Pine Avenue safety improvement project and he was reluctant to use the same firm for the pier repair project.
In response, Commission Chair Mark Short noted that he, Murphy and Seymour, the City Pier Grill tenant, were impressed with the George F. Young engineer who recently accompanied them on a boat trip to the T-end of the pier.
“This guy knew his business,” Murphy said.
Crane later joined the rest of the commission in supporting the use of the George F. Young firm for the pier repair project if a contract can be successfully negotiated. Murphy said the city can seek reimbursement for the expenses associated with the engineering firm’s services.
JOE HENDRICKS | SUN
Hurricane Milton destroyed much of the City Pier walkway.
ISLAND NEWS
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Police tasing reviewed by prosecutor’s office
The tasing of a 30-year-old autistic man created international headlines.
BY JOE HENDRICKS SUN CORRESPONDENT | jhendricks@amisun.com
HOLMES BEACH – State
Rod & Reel Pier owner provides update
On Nov. 2, the iconic Rod & Reel Pier sign was removed for safekeeping.
When contacted by The Sun by email on Nov. 2, Germany-based Rod & Reel Pier owner Oliver ‘Oli’ Lemke provided an update on the initial hopes and efforts to rebuild the Rod & Reel Pier that was destroyed by hurricanes Helene and Milton. Lemke said more details will be shared on social media in the days to come. “The good news: We found out the city, as well as the state, want the pier back,” he wrote. “We don’t know how long it’ll take to get permits though. We have no estimate on how much money we need yet and we’re working on getting estimates. We are working to get a disaster loan. Also, we have ideas to open up an interim business while waiting for the permits in order to raise money and get the staff back to work. The GoFundMe money is already being used for payroll and we still have some staff working. One thing is for sure, to say it with Dave’s (Cochran) words: “It’s gonna be a marathon, not a sprint.” On Nov. 2, the iconic Rod & Reel Pier sign was removed for safekeeping by Cochran, Dave Bouchard
Attorney Ed Brodsky of the 12th Judicial Circuit has determined that the arrest and tasing of a 30-year-old autistic man, Francisco Diaz, and the arrest of his father, Orlando Diaz, for repeatedly driving with a suspended driver’s license was “appropriate.”
On Oct. 28, Holmes Beach Police Chief Bill Tokajer provided The Sun with 12 police camera video recordings of the Sept. 10 arrests.
“The tape was reviewed by State Attorney Ed Brodsky and by Cynthia Evers and Dawn Buff, also with the state attorney’s office, who all said the charges were appropriate and the officers appeared to act within policy,” Tokajer told The Sun on Oct. 31.
Temporary post office expanding
The temporary postal operations at City Pier Park in Anna Maria will be expanded with the recent arrival of a mobile home-like trailer that will now serve as the temporary post office due to the nearby hurricane-damaged Anna Maria Post Office being unavailable. According to Postmaster Sheila Brunger, the air-conditioned trailer will offer a limited number of post office boxes and other postal services. According to Mayor Dan Murphy, the expanded postal operations are expected to soon include the sale of stamps and postage labels, a service not provided at the initial makeshift post office consisting of three mail trucks parked under the City Pier Park shade sail.
The Sun then contacted Brodsky to confirm Tokajer’s statement. After noting that he can’t speak in great detail about a pending case, Brodsky said, “We determined the actions of the officers were appropriate.”
Francisco Diaz is currently charged with two third degree felony counts of battery on a law enforcement officer, two third degree felony counts of resisting an officer with violence and one first degree misdemeanor count of resisting an officer without violence. According to court records, this was his first arrest in Manatee County. He remained in jail for approximately three weeks before being released on five bonds totaling $50,000.
Orlando Diaz is currently charged with driving with a license canceled, suspended or
revoked after prior conviction (a third degree misdemeanor) and resisting, obstructing or opposing an officer without violence (a first degree misdemeanor). According to court records, Orlando has received at least five citations for driving with a suspended or expired driver’s license since 2018, including one in Holmes Beach. Orlando was released from jail on Sept. 11. on two bail bonds totaling $3,000.
Speaking in general terms, Brodsky said, “Typically what happens with a case is law enforcement’s report comes into us with the charges they’ve referred to us. We’ll review those charges then the prosecutor will make a filing decision as to whether to go forward on those charges.”
When asked if a person’s medical condition factors into the charges filed by the prosecuting attorney, Brodsky said, “In every circumstance, we’re always going to consider all the facts and circumstances and that’s a factor in deciding the charge, whether to charge it, how to charge it and how you ultimately seek to resolve a case.”
THE ARRESTS
Using cell phone video provided by bystanders, the Spanish-language Telemundo network and the London-based Daily Mail were the first news agencies to report these incidents. The initial reporting generated intense social media criticism and the Holmes Beach Police Department Facebook page was bombarded with calls for the officers involved to be fired.
According to the significant incident report filed by Sgt. Joshua Betts, at approximately 10 p.m. on Sept. 10 the police department’s license place recognition system issued an alert regarding a vehicle potentially being driven by someone with a suspended driver’s license.
Off. Christopher Liotti then conducted a traffic stop in the plaza parking lot in front of the Dollar Tree store at 3260 East Bay Drive.
According to Liotti’s body camera footage, he approached the driver’s side of the car and asked Orlando Diaz to step out of the car and whether he spoke English.
“A little,” Diaz responded.
F. Diaz
O. Diaz
HBPD | SUBMITTED Francisco Diaz was tased by Off. Alex Hurt, center, with assistance from Off. Christopher Liotti. Left, Holmes Beach Police Chief Bill Tokajer reviewed the police officers' body camera and dash camera footage multiple times.
BY LESLIE LAKE
Pines discussion expands to include fire code
SUN CORRESPONDENT | llake@amisun.com
BRADENTON BEACH – In addition to FEMA guidelines and city flood ordinances, the fire code – specifically, setbacks within that code – has become part of the discussion about the continued existence of mobile homes at the Pines Trailer Park.
“The city has reached out to the property owner to discuss some of the concerns about the health, safety and welfare of the future there and I’ve had a number of conversations with Shawn Kaleta and Sam Negrin about what their plans are and how we can all work together to save as much of the community there as possible,”
City Attorney Ricinda Perry said on Nov. 1. “I think we’ve come up with a solution that complies with the FEMA regulations and the city’s floodplain ordinance as well as the Florida Building Code. We’re looking forward to solidifying that plan and putting it forward at the city commission meeting to the commission for approval in as much of an expedited timeframe as possible.”
Kaleta is the manager of Pines Park Investors LLC, which owns the Pines
Trailer Park. Negrin has been the spokesperson for the LLC at recent public meetings.
City Building Official Darin Cushing said on Oct. 17, following the storm surge from Hurricane Helene, that FEMA guidelines characterized the subsequent water intrusion into Pines’ mobile homes as major damage, triggering a city ordinance requiring elevation of the units.
Perry said The Pines will be discussed at a Nov. 7 city commission meeting. Public comment will be allowed at that meeting.
“Because of a discussion in the field with the West Manatee Fire Rescue (WMFR) District about elevating the buildings and also some fire separation, a large number of trailers in the Pines are actually out of compliance with setbacks as it relates to the city’s
codes as well as the West Manatee Fire District codes, so Rodney (WMFR Fire Marshal Rodney Kwiatkowski) issued a letter saying as you’re doing the restoration, it needs to meet those setback requirements.”
Perry said the city has been in discussion with the Pines owners.
“Ultimately the property owner has the right to make sure that that development, as it relates to public health, safety and welfare, is addressed to their concerns, and you don’t want to have another situation where every single structure floods out,” Perry said. “They’re working with the city to find a way to make that happen.”
Perry said the Pines ownership’s goal is to have the Pines community stay in that section of the city.
“There are setbacks that we know about, there are densities and intensities, there’s zoning and comp plan provisions, so it’s just a matter of laying that all out and coming up with an organized game plan to get that park staying a part of the community here in the city,” she said.
PAGE 19
LESLIE LAKE | SUN
The Pines Trailer Park will be a topic of discussion at the Nov. 7 city commission meeting. SEE PINES,
OPINION
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ANNA MARIA
10005 GULF DRIVE FOR INFORMATION, CALL 941-708-6130
Please visit www.cityofannamaria.com or contact city hall for more information.
Nov. 6, 10 a.m. – City Commission special meeting
Nov. 11, all day – City offices closed in honor of Veterans Day
Nov. 19, 2 p.m. – City Commission meeting
BRADENTON BEACH
107 GULF DRIVE N.
FOR INFORMATION, CALL 941-778-1005
Please visit www.cityofbradentonbeach.com or contact city hall for more information.
Nov. 6, 9 a.m. – City Commission emergency special meeting
Nov. 7, 6 p.m. – City Commission meeting
Nov. 11, all day – City offices closed in honor of Veterans Day
Nov. 13, 9 a.m. – City Commission emergency special meeting
Nov. 20, 1 p.m. – Scenic WAVES meeting
Nov. 21, 9:30 a.m. – Community Redevelopment Agency meeting
Nov. 21, noon – City Commission meeting
HOLMES BEACH
5801 MARINA DRIVE FOR INFORMATION, CALL 941-708-5800
Please visit www.holmesbeachfl.org or contact city hall for more information.
Nov. 11, all day – City offices closed in honor of Veterans Day
Nov. 13, 9 a.m. – Clean Water Ad-hoc Committee meeting
Nov. 19, 2 p.m. – City Commission organization meeting
Nov. 22, 11:30 a.m. – Police officer’s pension board meeting
ISLAND-WIDE
Nov. 14, 9:30 a.m. – ManaSota League of Cities meeting, Town of Longboat Key, 501 Bay Isles Road, Longboat Key
Nov. 19, 6 p.m. – West Manatee Fire Rescue board meeting, administration building, 701 63rd St. W., Bradenton
‘Let’s Give Thanks Together’ on Thanksgiving
Attendees of the free Thanksgiving dinner are asked to reserve their seats in advance.
BY JOE HENDRICKS SUN CORRESPONDENT
| jhendricks@amisun.com
ANNA MARIA – Duncan Real Estate owner Darcie Duncan, The Center of Anna Maria Island Executive Director Chris Culhane and others are organizing a Thanksgiving Day “Let’s Give Thanks Together” community gathering for Anna Maria Island residents.
The Thursday, Nov. 28 gathering from noon until 4 p.m. will be hosted at The Center, 407 Magnolia Ave. Full thanksgiving meals with all the trimmings will be provided free of charge but attendees are asked to reserve their seats in advance by visiting www.eventbrite.com and searching for the “Let’s Give Thanks Together” page.
Regarding the gathering, Duncan said, “What I started to recognize, as I have been out visiting with residents in their homes and just listening to the needs of the community, is that people are feeling disconnected. They don’t have their normal places to gather, as many are still in the process of rebuilding. Also, it is very apparent that many won’t have a kitchen to cook in or a home to gather in with friends and family. This just pulled at my heart so I thought what better way to bring our community together than over a Thanksgiving meal – a time for all of us to gather with our friends and neighbors and reconnect. We have so much to be grateful for.
Having time to connect as our community heals is so important and the outpouring of support for this event is already overwhelming.”
The Gathering Cookbook will be published after the event and recipe contributors are asked to email or text their Thanksgiving recipes to darcie@ teamduncan.com or 941-725-1589. You may also bring a printed or written recipe to the gathering on the day of the event.
Attendees are asked to bring non-perishable food items for the Food Bank of Manatee. Volunteer sign-up sheets and additional details will be coming soon.
SUBMITTED
The “Let’s Give Thanks Together” community gathering will take place on Thanksgiving Day.
Star Fish Co. reopens following hurricanes
Human nature triumphs over Mother Nature.
BY LESLIE LAKE SUN CORRESPONDENT | llake@amisun.com
CORTEZ – With weeks of hard work behind them in cleaning up the flood damage caused by Hurricane Helene, Star Fish Co. dockside restaurant and seafood market reopened on Oct. 31.
“Mother Nature always wins, but human nature will always come back,” Star Fish Manager Jim Gowett said, as he saw the full lunch crowd at the outdoor landmark restaurant.
Gowett, who has worked at Star Fish Co. for 26 years and has been manager for eight, said the buildings there had never gotten water before.
Following the storm surge from Hurricane Helene on Sept. 27 though, more than 2 feet of water got into the buildings carrying along with it mud and silt.
“We came here right after the hurricane and we were in shock,” he said. “We didn’t even know where to start.”
Gowett said staff then got to work on cleaning every item in the restaurant and seafood shop.
“We cleaned every shell, every bottle,” he said. “We had this cleaned up and ready to go a week ago, but like everyone else, our coolers and equipment got destroyed with the water, so we were waiting for new ones to be delivered.”
Following Hurricane Helene, broken dock planks were scattered on the dock and tables were overturned from the force of the water.
Owner Karen Bell said it took a lot of work to get everything back together.
“The docks were a mess, and we are still missing the
floating dock,” she said. “All the kitchen equipment had to be replaced due to flood water. But we got it done and I am so happy to be open.”
Star Fish Co., 12306 46th Ave. W., has a long history as a Cortez landmark.
According to its website, Star Fish Co. was started in the early 1920s by Judge Millis. Gaylord Garner purchased the business in the 1950s and his son, Allen Garner, took it over in the late 1980s.
It was primarily a wholesale company before the addition of the retail market in the 1960s.
“In 1996, Allen Garner sold the company to its current owner, Karen Bell. Karen felt that in addition to offering the public fresh seafood in the retail market, it made sense to start offering cooked seafood also. A small kitchen was upgraded and eight picnic tables were placed on the back dock. A restaurant was born,” according to the Star Fish website.
Star Fish Co. serves locally harvested seafood from Cortez fishermen. Outdoor seating provides views of the local commercial fishing fleet and Sarasota Bay.
The Star Fish Co. Seafood Market features seafood from local waters including grouper, snapper, mullet and stone crab claws.
LESLIE LAKE | SUN
Star Fish Co. manager Jim Gowett welcomes customers back to the restaurant on Oct. 31 following recovery from hurricane damage.
First Bridge Street retailer reopens post-Milton
BY LESLIE LAKE SUN CORRESPONDENT | llake@amisun.com
BRADENTON BEACH – As the first Bridge Street retailer to reopen following back-to-back hurricanes, Monetti Apparel owner Rejane Monetti is looking forward to the return of the bustling positive energy in the city’s commercial district.
“I think this will be better than before, I have a vision and a feeling it’s going to come back stronger,” she said. “My advice to other store owners here is just find a way to open and let’s get the vibe back in. That’s what Bridge Street is all about. The street is small, but so full of good energy. We need that back.”
Some Bridge Street restaurants and bars have reopened following the hurricanes, and many of the retail shops there are undergoing restoration efforts with the intent of reopening by the end of November.
Monetti had been planning to open a second shop months before the hurricanes hit and is moving forward with that plan.
“This was planned months before the hurricanes,” Monetti said. “During the first hurricane I was in Brazil creating the new collection. I got back home, and the next one came. I don’t give up. So, I just decided, I’m going to open.”
Monetti said floodgates on the retail building at 119 Bridge St. kept much of the water out of Monetti
Apparel during the storm surge from Hurricane Helene.
“The floodgates actually saved us,” she said. “They covered the whole building front and back, the only reason why we got any water is we have an area indoors that is open, so the rain got in.”
Prior to the storm, all of Monetti’s inventory was moved upstairs to the currently empty space that will house her new venture.
The new shop, Lourdes Boutique,
is located directly upstairs from Monetti Apparel. The boutique is named for her mother, Lourdes, and will feature handcrafted crocheted clothing and accessories made by artisans in the Brazilian city of Fortaleza.
“We have the inventory, that was my dream to open this collection named after my mother,” Monetti said.
The crocheted items will include tops, bathing suits, beach cover ups,
pants, bracelets, bags, keychains and earrings.
“This will be all handcrafted items. This is a technique that is done in Brazil only,” said Monetti, who was born in Brazil. “People love it, and I keep the people there employed, that’s my main goal.”
In addition to the crocheted items, Monetti will have a collection of handmade bags, souvenir items and patchwork chair covers made from the unused fabric from her clothing collections.
“My whole intention is to use as much as I can without throwing anything away. That’s how I started making my dresses,” she said.
“I used to make them with my mother from leftover fabric. We used whatever we had. So on top of helping the people that are working, I’m going to be able to use all of my leftover fabric.”
Lourdes Boutique is located next to Bamboo Island Bar, 119 Bridge St.
“They are also from Brazil, so I’m going to keep that same vibe - all natural materials with an island atmosphere,” she said.
She said she is hoping the new shop will be opened around the time of the Bridge Street Christmas Tree Lighting. The date has not yet been announced.
“I’m going to keep moving forward,” she said. “I encourage everyone to just keep going and moving forward.”
LESLIE LAKE | SUN
Rejane Monetti, owner of Monetti Apparel, encourages other business owners to open and bring a positive vibe back to Bridge Street.
Anna Maria officers receive laser radar guns
Dep. Jared Leggett was among the first to use one of the Manatee County Sheriff’s Office Anna Maria Unit’s three new handheld laser-based radar guns for the enforcement of the city’s speed limits. Unit leader Sgt. Brett Getman said the laser radar guns are more accurate than standard radar guns and provide pinpoint accuracy, which is helpful in a condensed Island environment.
Holmes Beach debris pickup continues
BY KRISTIN SWAIN SUN STAFF WRITER | kswain@amisun.com
HOLMES BEACH
- Hurricane debris pickup continues in Holmes Beach. Though the first pass for debris pickup has passed, some residents are still awaiting pickup of debris at their homes. For those residents, city leaders want to communicate that they are not being missed and their hurricane debris will be picked up on future cycles through the city.
Three more sweeps of debris collection are scheduled through the city. Each cycle will collect construction debris, white debris (appliances) and yard debris in separate sweeps. Residents are asked to place each type of debris in a separate pile at the side of the road for collection.
Waste Pro is on the regular pickup schedule for trash, recycling
and yard waste as of Nov. 4.
Approximately 24 sidewalks in the city cannot be used due to hurricane damage. Signs are installed where sidewalks are impassible.
Drivers must share the road with bicy -
clists. Bicycle lanes along most roads are still impassible or dangerous due to hurricane debris. Bicycles are allowed along all roads in Holmes Beach with drivers required to share the road and allow 3 feet of space
when passing. Anna Maria Elementary School reopened on Nov. 4; drivers should note that school zone speed cameras will be back in service in the school zone when the lights are flashing.
KRISTIN SWAIN | SUN
Debris that would fill more than 11 football fields 3 feet deep was removed from Holmes Beach city streets as of Oct. 29.
OUTDOORS
Island business owners rebuild, collaborate, rebound
urricanes Helene and Milton took a toll on Anna Maria Island businesses, who are showing their resilience in working together to rebuild and reopen to serve their clienteles.
AMI Outfitters and Anna Maria Island Dolphin Tours are prime examples. In the words of Jennifer and Dave Hagey of AMI Outfitters, “As business owners on the Island, we plan for hurricane season, but no one could anticipate months of closure – or a complete rebuild for some. Our store took on up to 23 inches of water with Hurricane Helene and lost valuable inventory, yet we feel fortunate compared to other small business owners who faced even greater devastation.
“Now, we focus on recovery,” Dave Hagey continued. “It’s inspiring to see The Center of Anna Maria Island coordinating volunteers and donations, with Ben Sato at Grub and other local restaurants providing free meals to first responders, residents and volunteers. The support from our loyal customers and businesses like Issa Homes
has been incredible. Issa Homes matched our (along with nine other Island businesses) online gift card sales for nearly two weeks. This generosity was completely unexpected and made a huge impact. Our online presence has been critical during this time, helping us stay connected with customers and allowing them to show their support in place of a GoFundMe account. We’re also joining several local pop-up events and plan to donate a portion of our sales to The Center. Now is the time to give back, shop local, and support small businesses.”
"Dave and I see this as an opportunity, not an obstacle, to expand our offerings,” Jennifer Hagey said. “We’ll be adding more women’s and children’s apparel to our traditionally menswear-focused shop. When you visit us next, you can expect a complimentary beer and an enhanced shopping experience.
"To our family and customers who feel like family, your encouragement and belief in our little shop on Pine Avenue mean so much. Your generosity is making a real difference, not only for AMI Outfitters but for the entire community,” she said.
Ben Webb, owner of Anna Maria Island Dolphin Tours and a big supporter of The Center, was on the scene right after the storms passed to assess the damage and prepare
to help fellow Islanders rebuild. According to Webb, “Our first priority was to help friends and neighbors with cleanup and to work closely with Chris Culhane at The Center of Anna Maria Island. I have been assisting with providing the dump trailers and roll-off dumpsters residents and businesses need to start the cleanup and recovery process."
"I’ve also been doing interviews on our Facebook page of different business owners and people giving their take on the storm and their struggles. It’s a chance to share everyone’s personal story," he said.
The Center of Anna Maria Island has been at the forefront of hurricane relief efforts and their website has valuable information for residents and business owners.
“In the aftermath of the storm, we understand many in our community may need assistance with clean-up and recovery. We are offering volunteer support for packing and light clean-up tasks," The Center’s website states.
Please be aware of the following limitations for volunteer assistance:
• Volunteers cannot remove drywall, cut down trees, or handle heavy demolition tasks;
• For safety reasons, if your home has mold or hazardous conditions, volunteers will not be able to enter or assist inside the house.;
• Volunteers can help with organizing and packing personal items, cleaning up debris from yards (such as leaves, and branches), and minor outdoor clean-up tasks;
• Please ensure all areas where volunteers will work are safe and accessible.
If you are interested in volunteer assistance, please call The Center at 941-778-1908.
Another way to help the community is to attend the Bradenton Gulf Islands Hurricane Relief Concert Rock ‘N’ Support featuring Lynyrd Skynyrd and special guest Marcus King. All proceeds from the Friday, Nov. 15 concert at the Bradenton Area Convention Center go to benefit local hospitality workers affected by the hurricanes. Supplies also are still available for pick-up at The Center, and anglers who need to order tackle and supplies (fishing reports have been very positive) can shop AMI Outfitters online store.
Now is a great time to make an effort to support all Island businesses as they work to reopen and serve the residents of Anna Maria Island.
Repairs are underway at AMI Outfitters and other local retailers.
RUSTY CHINNIS
DEBRIS: Removal responsibility shifts to property owner
ment and he and the commission will decide how to proceed during their next emergency meeting on Wednesday, Nov. 6. Murphy said the city will probably have to address post-deadline landscaping debris, too.
Although he doesn’t want the city to be taken advantage of, Murphy doesn’t want to see debris piles littering the city streets.
“Nobody wants that stuff sitting around,” he said. “It attracts rats. It’s ugly and it’s depressing to look at. Seeing your life out on the curb’s not good psychologically, and it’s not good morale-wise.”
On Oct. 24, Murphy estimated the city’s reimbursable debris removal costs to be approximately $1.5 million at that time. On Friday, he estimated it would cost an additional $80,000-$100,000 in reimbursable costs to remove the remaining household debris piles.
During the Oct. 24 meeting, longtime resident and former city Commissioner Doug Copeland said, “I want to commend and thank the commission, the staff and all the private partners who have done an amazing job cleaning up the city under the leadership of Mayor Murphy. It’s a prime example of how city government should work and I thank you.”
STREET DAMAGE
General Manager Dean Jones said five city streets sustained significant hurricanerelated erosion and deterioration: Sycamore, Coconut, Beach, Peppertree and Maple. Jones said the Woodruff & Sons construction company placed #57 stone in the washed-out areas as a temporary safety measure. He estimates it will cost $825,000 to repair the five streets, which he hopes to have completed by the end of November.
POOL DEWATERING
Jones said the city is now allowing pool dewatering to take place in a controlled
and city-permitted manner, with as many as 1,100 pools requiring hurricane-related dewatering. Jones said contractors must submit a dewatering permit for each impacted property. He then approves those permits in a manner that doesn’t allow any city street to become flooded and impassable.
Commissioner Gary McMullen noted many pool areas are now missing the fences required by city code. Murphy said that’s another matter to eventually be addressed by the code enforcement department.
FEMA ASSESSMENTS
Commissioner Mark Short said FEMA’s 16-person site assessment team was expected to complete the initial damage assessments that day for the 1,173 Anna Maria properties requiring a damage assessment.
“In a little over two weeks, they assessed almost 1,200 properties,” Short said. During the Oct. 24 meeting, Short said the FEMA assessment teams are collecting information but are not telling property owners what percentage of their property is considered to be hurricane damaged.
JOE HENDRICKS | SUN
This household debris pile sat alongside Spring Avenue on Friday afternoon. Sunday was the deadline for landscaping debris removal.
Community cleans up hurricane debris
Keep Manatee Beautiful, Waste Pro, the Holmes Beach Code Compliance team and dozens of volunteers took to the streets of Holmes Beach on Oct. 26 for a community-wide hurricane debris cleanup. The effort pulled an estimated 50,000 pounds of hurricane-related debris from rights of ways and residential properties.
PIER: Commission supports mayor’s pier repair request
As he did on Oct. 24, Murphy again recommended replacing the missing portion of the pier walkway with concrete support components similar to those used at the T-end of the pier that sustained very little damage.
The new City Pier completed in 2020 replaced the old City Pier damaged by Hurricane Irma in 2017. The current pier walkway is supported by wooden bents and beams placed atop concrete pilings.
Murphy said the engineering firm will help determine the status and stability of the remaining pier walkway that still connects to the shoreline. Murphy, who leaves office on Nov.
19, said replacing the still-standing portion of the walkway with a new and stronger walkway would likely fall outside of the hurricane-related reimbursement allowances. He noted that’s a decision the new mayor and newly-configured city commission will have to make. What remains of the pier walkway will remain closed until the pier is fully repaired.
On Oct. 24, Murphy estimated it might cost $3 million to repair the City Pier and he’s not yet able to estimate how long those repairs might take.
The George F. Young proposal will be discussed again during the Wednesday, Nov. 6 emergency city commission meeting that starts at 10 a.m.
CITY OF HOLMES BEACH | SUBMITTED
TASING: Reviewed by prosecutor's office
FROM PAGE 4
At Liotti’s request, Francisco Diaz exited the passenger door and walked around the front of the car to translate. After Orlando Diaz acknowledged his past suspended driver’s license violations, Liotti asked Francisco Diaz to tell his father he was being arrested. When Liotti placed the first handcuff on Orlando Diaz’ wrist, Diaz began screaming. Franscisco Diaz then came toward Liotti and tried to free his father from the officer’s grasp, making contact with Liotti in the process. As his mother restrained Francisco Diaz and led him back to the car, Liotti swept Orlando Diaz to the pavement and finished handcuffing him. He remained handcuffed for several minutes, screaming loudly despite not being tased or injured, joined at times by the mother’s screaming. When escorted to a police vehicle, Orlando Diaz resisted being placed in the back seat and he gently fell to the ground after apparently fainting, resulting in a call for medical assistance.
Liotti asked Off. Alex Hurt to handcuff Francisco Diaz, cautioning that “he’s going to fight.”
The probable cause affidavit filed by Liotti states, “The defendant had to be physically removed from the vehicle, at which time he began to resist and struggle with officers, eventually striking an officer in the face.”
According to Liotti’s body camera video, Liotti’s dash camera video and Hurt’s abbreviated 25-second body camera video, Hurt asked Francisco Diaz to step out of the car and turn around. He stepped out of the car and asked “Why?” three times, but he did not turn around to be handcuffed. Hurt then grabbed Francisco Diaz’ left arm and took him to the ground using an arm bar takedown before attempting to handcuff him. During
We determined the actions of the officers were appropriate.”
Ed Brodsky, 12th Judicial Circuit state attorney
the ensuing struggle, which Liotti joined, Hurt was allegedly struck in the face, which Tokajer later said may have been unintentional due to Francisco Diaz’ autistic state.
As the struggle continued, Liotti repeatedly told Francisco Diaz he was going to get tased if he didn’t comply. Using a handheld Taser Stun Drive, Hurt then discharged the Taser several times, with Francisco at one point yelling, “That’s no fair,” before he complied.
Francisco Diaz’ mother then approached Liotti and repeatedly said, “Mi hijo has autismo (my son has autism),” mentioning her son’s autism for the first time.
Francisco Diaz was placed in the back seat of a police vehicle and a short time later Liotti said to him: “When you tried to fight with us, that’s against the law.”
“That’s my parents. The police always trap everybody like us,” Francisco Diaz responded.
Both men were taken to the hospital for examination and then transported to the Manatee County Jail.
CHIEF’S RESPONSE
When speaking to The Sun on Oct. 28, Tokajer noted that Francisco Diaz was calm and helpful until the first handcuff was placed on his father.
“The officer was making a lawful arrest of the father, then the son pushed the officer and interfered with the lawful arrest,” Tokajer said.
When asked if the tasing was justified, Tokajer said, “As soon as they got his hands behind his back, they de-escalated. The drive stun is a useful tool to get compliance. They were merely trying to get him to comply so they could effect the arrest.”
He noted there was one Holmes Beach tasing in 2020, none in 2021, and one each in 2022 and 2023.
“That’s not a pattern of abuse,” he said.
He also noted Francisco Diaz’ autism was not mentioned until the tasing occurred and things might have turned out differently had that been mentioned earlier. Tokajer said his officers will now receive training on how to recognize and interact with those who have autism.
When asked about arresting someone for driving with a suspended license, Tokajer said that is within that officer’s discretion and Liotti was aware of Orlando Diaz’ previous infractions.
“He’s been driving on a suspended license for over 20 years,” Tokajer said.
ATTORNEY’S RESPONSE
When contacted by The Sun that same day, Bradenton-based attorney C.J. Czaia said he’s representing
Francisco Diaz, but not his father.
Czaia said he watched the video footage broadcast by Telemundo but he had not yet obtained or viewed the police camera footage. Czaia acknowledged the incident would not have happened if Orlando Diaz had not been driving with a suspended license, but he questioned why both men were arrested, why Francisco Diaz was tased and why it took so long to get him out of jail.
“Until we look at all the evidence and depose the officers, it’s very hard to judge what really happened. But this kid was in jail for three weeks and could not get a hearing to get a bond reduction or explain his situation. The big question to me regarding Francisco’s autism is why do you have to put this young man in a jail full of bad people? I really have an issue with that,” Czaia said.
Czaia said he’s known Tokajer for many years, dating back to Tokajer’s days with the Bradenton Police Department.
“He’s a straight-up guy,” Czaia said. Czaia said he would have more to say after he’s reviewed the police camera videos and has a better understanding of what happened.
(The police camera footage referenced in this story can be viewed in the online version of this story at www.amisun.com)
HBPD | SUBMITTED
Off. Christopher Liotti spoke with Orlando Diaz and Francisco Diaz before the arrests ensued.
REAL ESTATE
One month and we’re still standing
It’s been a month since Milton disturbed our idyllic lifestyle. The hurricane came in as a strong Category 3 storm, fortunately weakening before making landfall due to an increasing wind shear as it turned northeast.
That’s not to say Milton didn’t do a lot of damage along Florida’s coastal communi ties, generating tornados but fortunately, no tidal surge. Anna Maria Island, which was still recovering from Hurricane Helene’s flooding, was at least spared another flood event, freeing island residents and businesses to continue the cleanup from Helene as well as tackling Milton’s damage.
Castles in the Sand
addition, they will cover up to half the cost of roof-related projects and up to $1,500 per unit for doors and windows. There is a maximum grant of $175,000 available for each condo association.
There was legislation effective July 1 of this year to help keep condominiums safer from hurricanes in the form of grants to improve the stability of condominiums. Whether or not these grants can be applied for after a storm is unclear. The way I read it, the grants are for reinforcing condominium structures in the event of a storm. Nevertheless, as
we all know, there will be other storms. I mentioned this program briefly the week after the storm but here are some more details.
The My Safe Florida Condominium Pilot Program is an extension of the My Safe Florida Home program. This is designed to enhance the resilience of condominiums against hurricanes and reduce insurance costs.
The program provides licensed inspectors, grants and guidelines for hurricane mitigation projects funded by the state. The state would spend $2 for every $1 spent by eligible condominium associations for structural hurricane improvements. In
To apply for a grant, an association must receive approval by a majority vote of the board of directors or a majority vote of the total voting interests of the association to participate in the pilot program. Also, the association will need a unanimous vote of all unit owners within the structure or building that is the subject of the mitigation grant. A unit owner cannot participate individually in the pilot program, and implementation of this pilot program is subject to annual legislative appropriations for grants for eligible condominium associations.
After approval, the mitigation inspection grants for eligible associations may be used for the following improvements:
• Opening protection including exterior doors, garage doors, windows and skylights;
• Reinforcing roof-to-wall connections;
• Improving the strength of roof-deck attachments; and
• Secondary water resistance for roof.
There is more information and additional details about this bill on the myfloridahouse.gov website under HB 1029. Condominium association board members and property managers should seek the advice of an attorney familiar with legislative bills to see if your association may qualify for a grant before making an application.
We’re all still getting over the posttraumatic stress disorder that many of us have from Helene and Milton, and some of us never will. Certainly, a month is too soon for a full recovery. At least the roadside debris is starting to disappear and beaches are reopening, giving us a sense of normalcy. All we can do is move forward, work towards making our properties more secure, and keep standing. This, too, shall pass.
LOUISE BOLGER
Rotary seeks car, bike donations for hurricane victims
BY LESLIE LAKE SUN CORRESPONDENT | llake@amisun.com
CORTEZ – The storm surge from Hurricane Helene not only flooded homes in Cortez, but also destroyed many vehicles.
To help residents recover their mobility, the Rotary Club of Anna Maria Island has initiated both a vehicle donation program and a bicycle donation program.
“A significant number of our neighbors have lost their vehicles during the recent hurricanes and are now left with no transportation to work and do simple things, such as buy groceries,”
The Rotary Club posted on its Facebook page.
The Rotary Club is accepting donations of used cars to help these individuals get back on their feet.
“Do you own a car that you no longer need? We would love to take it off your hands and are able to offer drivers for vehicles not located on the Island. This is a way to truly make a difference in our community while making a tax deductible donation for
the value of your vehicle,” the Facebook post continues.
“We’re working from a list,” Rotary Board member Bob Slicker said. “We’re starting first in Cortez village then on to Sunny Shores and then we’ll move out from there.”
Slicker said the first on the list is an 87-year-old with cancer who needs the means to get back and forth to treatments.
“Three people in their home, the car was ruined in the storm. The oldest person in the home is
going through cancer treatment,” Slicker wrote on his personal Facebook page. “This car will help them get to and from treatments and work. I know someone knows somebody that has a car they are not using. Won't you consider this lifechanging donation?”
Slicker said 17 donated bicycles have been distributed and donations of working bikes will be appreciated. He said Bring on the Ministry is repairing some donated bicycles.
Slicker said he has been involved in hurricane relief efforts for more than 20 years.
“I know what people need right away after a storm,” he said.
“There are health needs now and financial needs.”
The Rotary Club has also been providing meals daily at the Sunny Shores distribution center.
They have also provided dehumidifiers to locals including the Cortez Cultural Center, The Cortez Church of Christ and mul-
tiple residences. The Rotary has donated 20 mini-refrigerators to residents and he said he is hoping to get larger ones.
Slicker has been personally affected by recent hurricanes, both at his home and his restaurant, Slicker’s Eatery.
“We are all in this together,” he said.
At a recent fundraiser, more than $17,000 was raised for the Rotary Club of Anna Maria Island to benefit Cortez and the surrounding area.
“Thank You Harbor Landings, a two-hour party just over 50 people, live music, thank you Mike Sales, silent auction, and a live auction, BYOB, that's all it took,” Slicker wrote on his Facebook page following the fundraiser.
Donations to the hurricane relief efforts may be made at: http://ami-rotary-helene.square. site/
Those having a vehicle they wish to donate can call Bob Slicker at 941-650-2333.
LESLIE LAKE | SUN
People lost vehicles and bikes in the floodwaters of Hurricane Helene. The Rotary Club of Anna Maria is asking for vehicle donations to help residents.
Bear takes Bradenton Beach commission seat
Scott Bear will be sworn in on Monday, Nov. 18 as the new Ward 2 city commissioner.
Bear, who ran unopposed, will take the seat currently held by Marilyn Maro. He will serve a two-year term. The election qualifying period ended on June 14 with Bear being the only candidate in the Nov. 5 election.
Manatee County Supervisor of Elections Deputy Chief Sharon
“Since he is unopposed, he is considered to be elected.”
City commissioners are paid $4,800 per year.
Maro had been absent with excuse from commission and CRA meetings for more than a year for an undisclosed reason. She has telephoned into some of the meetings.
Bear’s swearing in will take place at 10 a.m. at Bradenton Beach City Hall in the Katie Pierola Commission
Veterans Day parade canceled
Anna Maria Mayor Dan Murphy’s favorite city-hosted event, the annual Old Soldiers & Sailors Veterans Day parade and veterans’ recognition ceremony, will not take place this year as the city continues to recover from the impacts of hurricanes Helene and Milton. The city-hosted seasonal farmers market that usually begins in October at City Pier Park also remains on hold until further notice.
RENTAL: HB lifts rental moratorium
Holmes Beach was the only one of the three Anna Maria Island cities to enact a vacation rental moratorium in the wake of the two hurricanes.
Vacation rental owner Nicole Kaleta thanked commissioners for their efforts and hard work to help the city recover
after the storms. She said that her business has made the choice to not take reservations until mid-November, but wanted the moratorium revoked because with it in place, she said rental agents’ hands were tied legally regarding alreadybooked reservations. She said her company lost 20% of its annual revenue due to the storm and had to pay out of pocket for refunded processing fees.
Restaurateur Sean Murphy also thanked city leaders for their hard work and dedication to helping the city cleanup after the storms passed. He also asked that the moratorium be rescinded to help businesses recover.
KRISTIN SWAIN | SUN
Vacation rental owners stepped up on Oct. 29 to ask Holmes Beach commissioners to rescind the city’s moratorium blocking vacation rentals for 45 days.
FROM PAGE 1
JOE HENDRICKS | SUN
OBITUARIES
Harold Edward Ice
Harold (Ed) Ice's family is sad to announce that he passed away on Oct. 21, 2024. He was born in Elkins, West Virginia in 1940 and died as a resident of Anna Maria, Florida. He was a veteran - Captain of the United States Army - and has trav -
Celebrate!!!
By Ed Ice
Don't mourn the death of the body
Celebrate the life that was Remember the joy of the living Through children, through the underwater world
Through the mountains
Remember that this man saw many things not seen by others Sunsets in the South China Sea and Tobago Sunrises in Washington, DC and Florida Festivals in Singapore
Student riots in Seoul Fairs in Switzerland, Texas and California in the same month Wine and beer in Germany
Rebels in Ethiopia Snow in Italy
Russians staring across the border
Staring at the Suez canal from the Mitla Pass
Koreans/Japanese/Chinese/Malays/ Indonesians/Thais
Visiting every continent except Antarctica (didn't miss it at all)
Walking the Appalachian Trail with my Dad
Hunting and fishing with Pop, Carl Ray, Granpas Ice and Kelley, Uncle Artie
Motorcycles with Vic and Dianne
Remember the joy of knowing grandchildren and great-grandchildren
eled the world as a soldier, an engineer and as a tourist throughout his lifetime. He graduated from West Virginia University with an engineering degree in 1964.
He retired to Anna Maria after a long and distinguished career as an engineer for
the Army and as a defense contractor. He then went on to own and operate several businesses and to volunteer for various organizations for over 25 years. Anna Maria was his home.
He wrote his own obituary many years ago. It is but a partial accounting of a well-lived life. After he wrote this, he was involved in and loved many other organizations, like the Loyal Order of the Moose 2188, where he served as an officer for many years.
The Moose will be holding a memorial in the future after the extensive hurricane damage from Helene and Milton has been repaired. In lieu of flowers, please donate to the charity of your choice, but consider the following charities that are important to our family: Loyal Order of the Moose 2188; Wounded Warrior Project; Cystic Fibrosis Foundation; and Hillsdale College.
And helping Kelley learn to read and write and cipher.
Learning about Black Friday from my girls
Remember the sadness of not knowing enough about the first three kiddos
Being gone a lot by choice to preserve sanity
But trying to make it up as they grew older with limited success
Remember the learning to like himself at a late age
And then being able to like others better
Remember successes at work
RJ, what became CB, Blue/Green, Leader Store, Dragonfly
And the friends made and lost in the process
Remember the joy of scuba
And the friendships gained
The Hoovers, Amy and Gary, Henderson (the cause of it all)
Chris, Ross, John. T-Rex, Russell, HBPD, Steve Stewart
Pete and Lorraine
If I missed any, blame it on old age!
Shrimp by the lake
Jemma's tree house
Ricardo and company
Cold water and warm water
Holmes Beach cops and their warmth and professionalism
Bonaire with Ross and Chris
Sharks circling in Provo
Wrecks in Truk
Down low at the Blue Corner in Palau
Corals in Fiji
PINES: Fire code adds to issues
WEST MANATEE FIRE RESCUE LETTER
On Oct. 29, Kwiatkowski drafted a letter outlining fire safety and regulatory standards to be followed for all new mobile home installations at the Pines.
“This came at the request of the city,” Kwiatkowski said. “My intention with the letter was to share the code.” He said the draft letter was given to Kaleta and the city.
“Please be advised that all new
installations at your park shall meet the NFPA 501A: Standard for Fire Safety Criteria for Manufactured Home Installations, Sites, and Communities, 2017 Edition,” the letter states in part. “This standard outlines critical fire safety criteria for the construction, installation and maintenance of manufactured homes and their surrounding areas.”
In addition, compliance with the Florida Administrative Code 69A-42: Uniform Fire Safety Standards for Mobile Home Parks and Recreational
The boat that wouldn't go home in Tortola
Remember Scarborough Faire
Renaissance fairs in Florida
Camping
Canoes on the lake
Kayaks in the ocean
(Andrew tipping Sonny)
Swimming pools in the yard and at hotels
Rides at the fairs
Surfing the net
Tears over movies
Fresh bread and popcorn
Chaperoning for Lee and Southeast bands
Cooking a gazillion hamburgers and hot dogs
Grouper burgers
The battle to become a boat Captain
And how to not catch fish
Poker runs through the countryside
Scooting with Kyle
Taking Junior to Linger Lodge
And to eat oysters
Running on the temporary island
With Capn Jack, Annie and Junior
Catching ladybugs with Pam
Watching Kelley walk across the stage from high school
And UCF. A Wonder this old heart didn't burst right there.
Remember the fight to regain strength after surgery
Remember the joy of at last loving a woman
Who loved back. Thanks, Missy Di.
Life is to be celebrated
Enjoyed
Vehicle Parks is mandatory, according to the letter.
“Specific attention must be given to Section 69A-42.0041, which governs the required setbacks between structures,” Kwiatkowski’s letter states.
That regulation states that no portion of a mobile home, excluding the tongue, shall be located closer than 10 feet side to side, 8 feet end to side or 6 feet end to end horizontally from any other mobile home or community building.
The setbacks must be adhered to
Remembered
Death is just another part of life
And must occur
Hopefully quickly and reasonably painless
With brain intact and body going
Children
Don't cry
Get out and live!!
Celebrate my life
By being what you want to be
My life wasn't great to anyone but me
I did what I could
Most of the time
Didn't do what I should some of the time
But it was mine
The pain, the sorrow
The loves lost
The loves won
The pride in my Mom and Dad
The joy of Dianne, Carrie, Meredith, Kelley, Timothy, Micki
Amber, Meghan, Chase, Kyle, Carolanne, Blayne, Nicholae, Thomas, Gracey, Kylee, Grant, Liam, Liela, Legend, Aiden, James and Bellamy.
The sadness of great grandbabies that I never got to hold. And the joy to the ones I did.
Celebrate!!!
Celebrate!!!
I lived for a while
Now it's your turn
unless one of the following conditions is met:
• The exposed composite walls and roof of either structure are without openings and constructed with materials that provide a one-hour fire resistance rating; or
• The structures are separated by a one-hour fire-rated barrier.
The Bradenton Beach city commission meeting will be held on Thursday, Nov. 7 at 6 p.m. at the Katie Pierola Commission Chambers, 107 Gulf Drive N.
BY MONICA SIMPSON SPECIAL TO THE SUN
ANNA MARIA – Youth recreational soccer resumed play last week at The Center of Anna Maria Island. The familiar sound of the cheers from friends and family supporting their players and teams was music to the Island’s ears after several weeks of storm recovery.
After a tied ballgame between La Creperie and Solid Rock Construction in the 8- to-10-year-old league, week three action continued with Adrian Griffin Interiors looking for their second win of the season and team Gulf Drive Café hoping for their first. Led by coach Keith Mahoney, the Gulf Drive squad handily defeated their opponent 5-0. Everly Chaplinsky scored two of the five goals for her team. Teammates Dominic Cusimano, Chandler LaPensee and Owen Mahoney each successfully struck the soccer ball, sending it past Adrian Griffin goalie Judah Treworgy.
Moss Builders undefeated
Treworgy had seven saves in the match. Despite his efforts and those of his teammates, the Adrian Griffin Interiors team just could not stop the Gulf Drive team. Working to stay undefeated, team Moss Builders played the final league match
against The Fish Guy Aquarium Services. The 6-0 win proved why the Moss squad is on top of the ranking with a 3-0 record going into week 4 competition. With playoffs starting Tuesday, Nov. 12, this week’s action will determine the matchups leading to the championship game on Tuesday, Nov. 19 at 6 p.m.
SUBMITTED
Horseshoes back after hurricanes
Tom Farrington, left, and Bob Hawks teamed up and posted the only 3-0 record at AMI Horseshoes on Nov. 2 and made the trip to the winner's circle after play returned to the Anna Maria City Hall horseshoe pits for the first time in five weeks after the 1-2 punch from Hurricanes Helene and Milton. Two teams reached the final on Oct. 30 at G.T. Bray Park after each went 3-0 during pool play. Farrington and Tim Sofran beat Gersey Fernandes 23-5 and earned the day's bragging rights.
CENTER NOTES
Ice Bath Mondays with Dev (New Day)
Drop in and experience the benefits of ice baths at The Center of Anna Maria Island, 407 Magnolia Ave., Anna Maria, on Mondays from 9 a.m.-noon with Devinne Whittaker of Devs Bevs. Ice baths can reduce inflammation and swelling, relieve sore muscles, improve exercise recovery, improve mental health and support immunity. The cost is $20 for members and $25 for non-members. No preregistration required.
88 Keys with Miss Bev
Whether you’re a beginner piano player or polishing your skills, personalized one-on-one 30-minute sessions ensure growth and enjoyment. From
mastering tunes to dazzling in recitals, we’ve got you covered! Tuesday and Thursday time slots from 3:30 to 6:30 p.m. are limited, with new sessions each month. Reservations are required. The cost is $90 for members and $100 for nonmembers.
DBTB Juice Bar & Bakery
Dev’s Bevs and Ted’s Breads Juice Bar & Bakery (DBTB) is now at The Center from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. on Wednesdays and Fridays. Scratch-made breads, pastries, desserts, juices, coffee and smoothies using organic flour and produce will be on sale in The Center’s café. Tuesday nights with DBTB provides homemade pizza and juices during youth soccer.
The Holistic Nurse IV Services
Join Kialey Gratzer, holistic nurse, for IV vitamin infusions
and injections on Fridays from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. IV therapy delivers nutrients and hydration directly into the bloodstream for immediate absorption and use by the body. The cost is $40 for shots and $180 for IV treatments.
Fall Break Camp
When school is out, the fun begins at The Center on Monday, Nov. 25 through Wednesday, Nov. 27 from 8 a.m. to 6 p.m. for kindergartners through fifth graders. Enjoy games and crafts with a themed experience each day. Pre-registration is required. The cost is $140 for members and $155 for non-members.
To register for Center programs or for more information, email The Center at hello@ centerami.org or call 941-7781908.
Boxing out Adrian Griffin Interior’s Leo Tyler, Gulf Drive Café’s Everly Chaplinsky and Owen Mahoney work a strong defense at The Center last week in the youth soccer league.
FUN IN THE SUN
CLASSIFIEDS
BOATS
FIRST, I WISH ALL MY ISLAND FRIENDS WELL. This to shall pass. Yes, boats are selling. Yes, we will buy damaged boats. Yes, we need boats as folks are getting insurance checks.
Dave Struber/Owner 24 Years, Islandboatsales. net 941-288-3489
CARE GIVER
ELDER CARE by Longtime resident. Many References. Part time to help with shopping, companionship, cooking etc. Call Cheryl 941-685-0045
COMMERCIAL SALES, RENT & LEASE
HAVE YOU BEEN thinking of selling? We NEED properties to List for SALE!!! Duplexes, multi family, small resorts? Call BIG Alan Galletto of Island Real Estate to get it SOLD 941-232-2216
CLEANING SERVICE
TOTAL HOME SERVICES CLEANING: Residential, Commercial, Rentals, VRBO. Professional and Reliable. Call 941-756-4570 or 941-565-3931
HOME IMPROVEMENTS
RENOVATION SPECALIST ALL carpentry repairs, Wash Family Construction, locally owned and operated CBC 1258250 Call 941-725-0073.
KERN & GILDER CONSTRUCTION, INC New Homes & Remodel. Design/Build. Since 1968. License # CBC 1261150. Call the Office. 941-7781115
GET’R DONE DRYWALL, INC Specializing in Remodels & Repairs. Island Resident for 20+ years. Call Neil. Cell 941-9621194
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.
GORILLA DRYWALL REPAIR, LLC. 15+ years of experience. Free Estimates. Let’s solve your Drywall problems together. Call 941-286-0607.
BMF INTERIORS Home repairs and more, No job too small. Please call 786318-8585
A.R.E. Renovation’s WHOLESALE KITCHEN CABINETS DIRECT., Remodeling, Bathrooms. Trim Flooring and Decks Tile and more Free quote, references available. Lic. # CRC.1334176 941-4653045.
CCS DRYWALL REPAIRS
We are local. Family owned & operated since 1991. Free Estimates. Licensed/Insured/Bonded. License # SCC131149803 Call 941-713-6531.
LANDSCAPING & LAWN CARE
R. GAROFALO’S Interlocking brick pavers, driveways, patios, pool decks. Free estimates. Licensed & Insured. Call Rafael 941-778-4823 or Veronik 941-526-7941
ISLAND RESIDENT. TREE/ BUSH Trimming, removal. Sweeping, blowing, and weeding. Weekly, bi-monthly or monthly schedule. Pressure washing. Call Bill Witaszek 941307-9315
SHORTDOG TREE & LAWN SERVICE Free Estimates. Remove trees; trim palms, yard work, hauling everything. Call 941-746-3373 or 941-730-2694
MOVING & STORAGE
MARTIN’S MOVING YOUR Island movers! Offering dependable, competitive rates. No hidden costs. 941-8095777.
PAINTING & WALLCOVERING
PAINT! PAINT! AND MORE 28 years of experienced interior/exterior custom painting. Pressure cleaning, drywall repairs and texture finishes. Many Island references. Please call Neil for free estimates. 941-812-0507
“WIZARD OF WALLS” Established 1980 Prompt quality service. Wallpaper installation/ removal. Mary Bell Winegarden 941-794-0455
DONALD PERKINS ABRACADABRA PAINTING LLC fully insured. 30 years experience. Many Island references. Call 941705-7096
PROFESSIONAL PAINTING SERVICES. Prompt & Reliable. Island Resident. Quality Workmanship. Interior/ Exterior. Minor repairs & carpentry. Free estimates. Bill Witaszek 941-307-9315
POOL SERVICES
FOUR SEASONS POOL SERVICE AND CHEMICAL SERVICES. Certified Pool Operator. 18 + Years Experience. Residential/commercial. Chemical Service Licensed & Insured. Call Dennis Clark 941-7375657
COLE'S TROPICAL POOL SERVICE Call Cole Bowers for all your pool maintenance needs! Affordable and Dependable!! 941-7131893
PRESSURE WASHING & WINDOWS
TOTAL HOME SERVICES CLEANING: Residential, Commercial, Construction, Vacation, VRBO Rentals . Also available Pressure Washing, Roof Cleaning, Paver Sealing and Windows. Call 941-5653931.
REAL ESTATE HOMES & CONDOS FOR SALE
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FERRY: Service resumes in Bradenton Beach
“I’m so ecstatic to be back at work. I love what I do,” Birkett said.
Brown and Schuerman were on the Island for the first time since backto-back hurricanes struck in October and November. After disembarking, they spent a few minutes chatting with Police Chief John Cosby, who stood at the top of the ramp that connects with the pier.
“We’re thrilled to see the ferry running again,” Brown told Cosby.
“The restaurants are open and the shops are coming around,” Cosby said. “The ferry will definitely help because we still have all these big trucks driving around. There’s not a lot of parking yet and this area’s very walkable. The ferry’s the best way to come out here right now.”
Cosby noted the Free Island Trolley
and the Monkey Bus shuttle service can transport ferry passengers to other destinations Island-wide.
“We’re going to look around and patronize the Island,” Brown said.
“We want to support the restaurants, because that’s the servers’ livelihoods,” Schuerman added.
Ferry service to Anna Maria is expected to resume after modifications are made to the barge to be used as a ferry landing until the City Pier reopens. Francis said he was out there the previous day and the wind and currents made docking challenging as the barge is currently configured.
“They’re going to make some adjustments,” Francis said.
For ferry scheduling information, visit www.bradentongulfislands.com/ gulf-islands-ferry/
JOE HENDRICKS | SUN Ferry passengers Kim Schuerman and Cathy Brown spoke with Police Chief John Cosby.
