Anna Maria Island Sun October 12, 2022

JOE HENDRICKS | SUN

County commission authorizes $700,000 for water taxi

The water taxi service will initially operate on Fridays, Saturdays and Sundays only.

BY JOE HENDRICKS SUN CORRESPONDENT | jhendricks@amisun.com

MANATEE COUNTY – Manatee County commissioners have autho rized County Administrator Scott Hopes to spend up to $700,000 to design and build two pontoon boats for use as water taxis to serve Anna Maria Island and Bradenton.

Manatee County will own the boats and place liens on the vessels to be managed and operated by the Clearwater-based Clearwater Ferry company.

Bradenton Area Convention and Visitors Bureau (CVB) Executive Director Elliott Falcione presented the funding request to county com missioners during the commission’s Oct. 6 land use meeting.

The county commission has not

yet been presented with a formal contract agreement with Clearwa ter Ferry. Nor have commissioners been presented with the interlocal agreements pertaining to the public day dock in downtown Bradenton, the City Pier in Anna Maria and the floating dock next to the Bridge Street Pier in Bradenton Beach, all contemplated as water taxi stops. The taxis will also stop at the countyowned Coquina South boat ramp in Bradenton Beach.

With an anticipated start date in February or March, the water taxi

service is expected to initially oper ate from 10:30 a.m. to 9:30 p.m. on Fridays, Saturdays and Sundays only. A memo included in the Oct. 6 meeting packet notes that service could be enhanced based on monthly demand and consumer feedback and the routes could be expanded to include additional stops. There is cur rently no water taxi stop proposed in Holmes Beach.

According to the route schedule

Local fishermen help devastated neighbors

The Organized Fishermen of Florida Cortez chapter is taking boatloads of supplies to barrier islands hit by Ian.

BY LESLIE LAKE

SUN CORRESPONDENT | leslielake@aol.com

CORTEZ - The local commercial fishing community has mobilized to help their southern counterparts fol lowing the devastation from Hurricane Ian.

The Organized Fisherman of Florida (OFF) Cortez chapter has already made one boat trip to Pine Island to deliver supplies to fellow fishermen who lost ev erything, and more trips are planned.

OFF Executive Director Alexis Meschelle is spear heading the campaign with her husband, OFF Presi dent Nathan Meschelle.

“When our guys saw that fish houses down there that had been in existence for three generations were gone, their boats were gone, their traps were gone, we knew we had to help,” she said. “We couldn’t imagine what that would be like to lose all that. And we knew that they would do the same for us.”

Another boat will be going down in about a week, she said, adding that supplies also are being sent to Arcadia.

“Right now, there’s a high need for coolers, pro pane and non-perishable foods,” Alexis said. “We can slow down a little bit on clothing.

“This started off small, we thought maybe we would help 20 families,” she said. “But I was told that our donations have already helped over 4,000 people. I am honestly so impressed with our community.”

According to the OFF Facebook page, drop-off sites and needs are as follows:

Swordfish Grill and Tiki Bar, 4628 119th St. W. in Cortez - Coolers and baby items. Additional supplies are needed, but these things are of high importance now. Please drop items off with the hostess.

A.P. Bell Fish Co., 4600 124th St. Court W. in Cortez – Everything, particularly non-perishable foods, dog food, cat food, horse feed, ice, gas, clothes, baby items and generators. Please drop items off with Savannah at the office.

P.J.’s Sandwich Shop, 12342 U.S. 301 in Parrishsame as at A.P. Bell. Please drop items off with Theresa.

According to the A.P. Bell Fish Co. website, “We are looking for donations for Arcadia as they are still underwater and most people have no homes. We are looking for toilet paper, dog food, cat food, nonperishable food, fuel for generators, soap, feminine hygiene products, baby food, diapers and blankets. Please drop at A.P. Bell in Cortez or PJ’s Sandwich Shop in Parrish.” Donations may also be made through Venmo to Organized Fisherman of Florida.

Hurricane cleanup completed in Anna Maria

The city of Anna Maria came through Hurricane Ian relatively unscathed.

BY JOE HENDRICKS SUN CORRESPONDENT | jhendricks@amisun.com

ANNA MARIA – The Hurricane Ian cleanup and recovery efforts went well in Anna Maria.

When contacted Thursday afternoon, Mayor Dan Murphy said the city’s con tracted storm debris removal company, Jet Hauling, had already removed 50 truckloads of storm debris and delivered it to the county landfill on Lena Road.

“It’s a long and arduous procedure, but 50 loads over four days is good. Debris removal will officially end on Tuesday of next week, after that, people have to bundle their yard waste as normal,” Murphy said.

On Friday, Murphy distributed an email that said, “Effective Wednesday, Oct. 12, the city of Anna Maria will no longer offer pick up of large storm debris. After that date, any lawn and yard waste must be bundled or bagged for Waste Manage ment to pick up on Mondays.”

JOE HENDRICKS | SUN

The city’s stormwater and drainage system performed well during and after Hurricane Ian.

The city website notes recycling services are suspended until further notice.

Murphy said power was fully restored in Anna Maria between 11 p.m. and midnight on Oct. 5. Murphy said the city hall build ing that had been partially powered by a generator became fully functional with email and internet services earlier that day.

“I think they did the best they could but with any restoration effort there’s always confusion. In this case, there were some delays with the restoration of power to our city. I had several conversations with

Bradenton Beach cleanup and debris removal completed

City staff earned praise for its actions before and after Hurricane Ian.

BY JOE HENDRICKS SUN CORRESPONDENT | jhendricks@amisun.com

BRADENTON BEACH – The city of Bradenton Beach essentially completed its post-Hurricane Ian debris removal and cleanup efforts on Friday.

Police Chief John Cosby serves as the city’s emergency operations manager and Public Works Director Tom Woodard leads the city’s post-storm debris removal and cleanup activities.

When contacted on Thursday, Cosby said the cleanup and removal of residential storm debris would be finished on Friday and normal sanitation and waste removal operations would resume on Monday.

Cosby said due to the relatively low amount of storm debris, the city relied on its public works department for the cleanup ef forts rather than using the city’s contracted debris removal service that is called upon when needed. Cosby said this approach was faster and more cost-effective.

Regarding possible FEMA reimburse

JOE HENDRICKS | SUN

Police Chief John Cosby also serves as Braden ton Beach’s emergency operations manager.

ment for the debris removal and cleanup costs, Cosby said he would participate in a FEMA briefing Friday morning to learn more about the eligibility guidelines.

“It took us 2½ days to get it cleaned up and there’s no debris piles sitting in front of people’s homes. It wasn’t worth the time wait on the FEMA reimbursement pro cess,” Cosby said.

Beginning Monday, the city’s new street sweeper truck will be used to remove re maining storm debris from the city streets, according to Woodard and Mayor John Chappie.

IN BRIEF

More rainwater from Piney Point released

Following an accumulation of just over 6 inches of rain from Hurricane Ian in retention ponds built on top of phosphogypsum waste stacks, rainwater from Piney Point has once again been discharged into Tampa Bay at Port Manatee.

According to a Florida Department of Environ mental Protection (FDEP) press release, the water was not mixed with phosphate process wastewater.

The shuttered phosphate plant is in the process of being permanently closed under the supervision of a court-appointed receiver.

As part of the closure process, the pond is being modified so that it will no longer accumulate rain water and eliminate the need for future rainwater releases to Port Manatee, according to FDEP.

Vote by mail ballots mailed

Hurricane Ian slightly delayed the mailing of the vote by mail ballots sent to county voters who pre viously requested them, according to Sharon Stief, chief deputy for the Manatee County Supervisor of Elections Office. “Vote by Mail ballots for the Nov. 8 general election were mailed out on Monday, Oct. 3. We had originally planned to mail them on Friday, Sept. 30. We had no hurricane impacts re garding our early voting and/or polling locations,” Stief told The Sun. According to Stief, 356 vote by mail ballots were mailed to Anna Maria voters, 297 ballots were mailed to Bradenton Beach voters and 1,147 ballots were mailed to Holmes Beach voters. The 2022 general election will conclude with inperson voting on Tuesday, Nov. 8.

Food truck zone on Thursday’s agenda

The Anna Maria City Commission is scheduled to meet on Thursday, Oct. 13 at 2 p.m. to continue a discussion on a proposed ordinance that would create a designated zone within the city for food truck operations. In August, the mayor and com mission discussed a proposed designated food truck zone at the northwest end of Bayfront Park, but some residents and property owners opposed that location and expressed support for a City Pier Park location instead. During Thursday’s meeting, the mayor also is expected to initiate discussion on staining the City Pier and the short-term pier clo sures that may be needed while that work occurs. The mayor will also provide an update on Hurri cane Ian recovery and cleanup efforts. The consent agenda includes a contract renewal with Piper Fire Protection, Dr. Jose Erbella’s reappointment to the planning and zoning board and a special permit re quest for a wedding on Nov. 5. Thursday’s meeting can be accessed by phone, and public input can be given, by calling 1-929-205-6099 and entering the meeting ID: 85392000280.

Term limits on Bradenton Beach ballot, again

For the third time in recent years, Bradenton Beach voters are being asked to weigh in on commission term limits.

BY JOE HENDRICKS SUN CORRESPONDENT | jhendricks@amisun.com

BRADENTON BEACH - With mail voting underway, Bradenton Beach voters have begun deciding the fate of five proposed amend ments to the city charter.

The charter amendment ques tions that appear on the ballot were proposed and supported by the majority of the city commis sion-appointed charter review committee and supported unani mously by the city commission.

The decisions made by Braden ton Beach voters regarding term limits and the filling of commis sion vacancies will impact the configuration of the Bradenton Beach City Commission for years to come.

The general election concludes with in-person voting on Tuesday, Nov. 8.

FORFEITURE OF OFFICE

Ballot question 1 pertains to the forfeiture of office provisions that apply to the city’s elected officials and reads as follows: “Currently the city charter vests authority in three arbitrators to hold forfeiture of office proceedings against an elected official with costs to be borne by the city. Should the city revise its charter to eliminate the three arbitrator-panel procedure and replace it with the former forfeiture provision utilizing the city commission to conduct the proceedings?”

Voter approval of this proposed amendment would eliminate the current charter requirement that requires a three-person arbitra tion panel in order to initiate the process of removing an elected mayor or commissioner from office before their term expires. Approval of this proposed amend ment would allow the city commis sion to initiate forfeiture of office proceedings on its own.

COMMISSION VACANCIES

Ballot question 2 pertains to the filling of commission vacancies and reads as follows: “The cur rent city charter requires a ward commissioner to reside in the ward they represent. Should the city amend its charter to establish a procedure to temporarily fill the ward seat for one term with an at-large commissioner if no ward resident is available or willing to run for office?”

Approval of this proposed amendment would allow the commission to fill a vacant com mission seat with a qualified candidate who resides in any area of Bradenton Beach. The charter currently requires the appointee to live in the specific commission ward for which the vacancy exists.

This proposed amendment could come into play if incumbent Com missioner Marilyn Maro’s commis sion seat is vacated in November because city voters again vote to retain term limits. This matter is addressed in ballot question 4.

Ballot question 3 pertains to the length of a commission vacancy that can be filled by commission appointment rather than a special election.

Ballot question 3 reads as fol lows: “The current city charter requires the city to provide a spe cial election to fill a vacancy that results in more than six months

from a resignation required by Section 99.012, Florida Statutes. Should the charter be amended to allow for all vacancies to be ap pointed by the city commission?”

Voter approval of this proposed charter amendment would elimi nate the current charter provision that requires a special election to fill any commission seat to be vacated for more than six months. This would allow the city com mission to fill all vacant commis sion seats by appointment rather than allowing the city’s registered voters to make that decision in a special election.

TERM LIMITS

Ballot question 4 may be the most significant charter amend ment question to be decided by Bradenton Beach voters. It pertains to the qualifications and terms of elected office and reads as follows: “Should the city amend its charter to remove term limits and maintain two-year terms for all elected positions with an effec tive date of June 16, 2022, in order to allow currently seated elected officials the ability to run for of fice, if otherwise termed out?”

Although she’s currently run ning unopposed as the Ward 2 commissioner, Maro is sched uled to term limit out of office in

JOE HENDRICKS | SUN

The term limit ballot question will determine if Commissioner Marilyn Maro serves another term in office.

Storm relief help available

If you’re looking for storm relief help in Manatee County after Hurricane Ian, there are a few resources to help ease the burden of recovery.

For all property owners, the first course of action should be to take photographs of the property. Ideally, you would have photographs before and after the storm passes through the area. These pictures can be used to help determine how much assistance a property owner qualifies for, whether through insurance or through a federal program such as FEMA.

All property owners with hurricane or flood insurance should contact their insurance agent immediately following a storm to start a claim.

Depending on the policy, some homeowners can be eli gible to receive funds to replace food losses due to an electrical outage.

For property owners who lost a roof during Hurricane Ian, you can apply for assistance, including the placement of a blue tarp over the affected area,

by visiting www.blueroof.us or calling 1-888-766-3258.

Manatee County leaders have waived the fees through the end of the calendar year for certain building permits. While emergency repairs can be done without a permit, a building permit must be applied for the following business day to avoid fines.

In the wake of Hurricane Ian, scams have popped up to try and convince homeown ers to part with their money in exchange for renovations that will never happen. To stay safe from scam artists, Mana tee County leaders advise that residents should only enter into agreements with contrac tors whose credentials can be verified through the state.

Property owners also should verify that their chosen contrac tor is allowed to operate in the state of Florida, is licensed and has active liability and workers’ compensation insurance. Prop erty owners can verify their contractors’ license by visiting www.myfloridalicense.com.

Chiles Group assists hurricane victims

The Chiles Group assisted the World Central Kitchen’s hurricane relief efforts by providing more than 2,000 free meals last week to hurricane victims, linemen and contractors in Englewood and Port Charlotte. The meals were prepared at the Chiles Group’s BeachHouse restaurant in Bradenton Beach and at Gamble Creek Farms in Parrish. The meal preparations were a team effort that also included the Sandbar restaurant in Anna Maria and the Mar Vista Dockside restaurant in Long boat Key. According to Chiles Hospitality Culinary Director Seth Kondor, 784 meals consisting of seafood gumbo with rice and vegetables were served on Wednesday, 630 ham and provolone cheese sandwiches were served on Thursday and 650 meals consisting of soy ginger-glazed chicken with rice and vegetables were served on Friday. Approximately eight Chiles Group volunteers participated in each day’s meal preparation and distribution efforts. “We passed areas that were still out of power and water. Roofs ripped off and flooding. Most people wanted a hot meal and cold water,” Kondor said. Founded by Chef José Andrés in 2010, the World Central Kitchen is a nonprofit organization whose efforts include partnering with local restaurants to provide fresh meals after natural disas ters.

CHILES GROUP | SUBMITTED

Chiles Group volunteers provided fresh meals in Englewood and Port Charlotte.

The Anna Maria Island Sun Staff

Owner/CEO Mike Field Editor

Cindy Lane General Manager Bob Alexander

Reporters/Photographers

Joe Hendricks Jason Schaffer

Kristin Swain

Columnists

Louise Bolger Rusty Chinnis

Contributors

Steve Borggren

Captain Rick Grassett

Leslie Lake Monica Simpson

Tom Vaught

Captain Kevin Wessel

Captain Dave White

Anne Yarbrough Layout Ricardo Fonseca

Digital Editor

Kristin Swain

Advertising Director Shona Otto

Advertising Assistant

Pamela Lee

Classifieds

Bob Alexander Graphics

Elaine Stroili

Ricardo Fonseca

Distribution

Bob Alexander Connor Field

Tony McNulty

Brian Smith

Accounting

Leslie Ketchum

Co-founding publishers

Mike Field Maggie McGinley Field

Holmes Beach annual city budget high

Based on the population size (3,017) of Holmes Beach including the number of homes (2,538+), the city’s annual budget is not in proportion. Year over year the city budget goes up, from $15M to $18M. Up to $22M last year and now the commission is asked to approve a budget of over $25M.

Keep in mind that the city of Holmes Beach is 1.9 square miles. There has been exhaustive analy sis by concerned residents of the “expense per capita” for Holmes Beach and how we compare to similar “like cities.” When it comes to the budget, Holmes Beach is substantially above and signifi cantly out of line from the norm.

I take pride in the job I am elected to do. I use every form of commu nication to listen to the voters and property owners alike to take a tem perature on how people feel about topics of concern, including taxes.

Budgets go up for several rea sons:

• When property values in crease.

• When the city does not reduce the millage rate enough.

• When the county does not pay its fair share.

• Grants applied for.

The millage rate and the bud get are what the city commission can control. Over the years we have heard promises of tax relief/ tax savings and the commitment to lower the millage rate. The millage was reduced from 2.25 to 2.07. Yet, the budget still went from $22.2M to $25.4M. Up $3M, a 14.4% increase. A millage reduc tion but still a tax increase as our property values continue to go up. I guess that’s good if you are selling. Which is what some longterm residents who are on fixed incomes are doing. Our residents are being replaced by a different type of owner/investor. We are seeing a change in the diversity of

our community. The tax increases are pushing people out, which is changing the face of Holmes Beach and Anna Maria Island.

Our property owners need tax relief. Our city can reduce the “nice to have” expenses, which continue to increase year over year. At each budget hearing, I asked for a more significant mill age reduction, and I am staying consistent with that message.

Jayne Christenson Holmes Beach city commissioner

Kudos for Seagrape Cottage in Bradenton Beach

This was done beautifully. My thanks to the Morris couple for taking such a special interest in this seaside location and restoring some historic architecture here.

Karen Veirs Bradenton, Florida

ANNA MARIA

10005 GULF DRIVE

FOR INFORMATION, CALL 941-708-6130

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

Oct. 12, 9 a.m. – Planning and Zoning board meeting

Oct. 13, 2 p.m. – City Commission meeting

Oct. 27, 6 p.m. – City Commission meeting

BRADENTON BEACH

107 GULF DRIVE N.

FOR INFORMATION, CALL 941-778-1005

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

Oct. 12, 10 a.m. – Department Head meeting

Oct. 19, 1 p.m. – Planning and Zoning board meeting

Oct. 20, 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. Oct. 25, 10 a.m. – Code Compliance special magistrate hearing Oct. 25, 5 p.m. – City Commission meeting with work session to follow Oct. 26, 9 a.m. – Clean Water Ad-Hoc Committee meeting

Oct. 27, 11 a.m. – Police officers’ pen sion board meeting

ISLAND-WIDE

Oct. 17, 2 p.m. – Island Transportation Planning Organization meeting, Holmes Beach City Hall

Oct. 18, 6 p.m. – West Manatee Fire Rescue board meeting, administration building, 701 63rd St., Bradenton

EVENTS

WEDNESDAY, OCT. 12

Offstage Ladies meeting, The Porch, 9707 Gulf Drive, Anna Maria, 11:30 a.m. To join, call Roe Duncan at 941-9322798.

Mahjong for beginners, Island Branch Library, 5701 Marina Drive, Holmes Beach, 1 p.m.

Island Time Book Club, “The Personal Librarian” by Marie Benedict and Victo ria Christopher Murray, Island Branch Library, 5701 Marina Drive, Holmes Beach, 6:30 p.m.

THURSDAY, OCT. 13

Hispanic Heritage Month: Latin cook ing, Island Branch Library, 5701 Marina Drive, Holmes Beach, 11 a.m.

AMI Chamber luncheon, Slicker’s Eatery, 12012 Cortez Road W., Cortez, 11:30 a.m., $18 for members or $30 for guests. Reserve to 941-778-1541 Sunshine Stitchers Knit and Crochet, Island Branch Library, 5701 Marina

Drive, Holmes Beach, 2 p.m.

Thursdays in Paradise Stroll featuring local art, music and food, Bridge Street, Bradenton Beach, 5-8 p.m.

FRIDAY, OCT. 14

Forty Carrots, Island Branch Library, 5701 Marina Drive, Holmes Beach, 10 a.m.

Mahjong Club, experienced players, Island Branch Library, 5701 Marina Drive, Holmes Beach, 11:30 a.m.

SATURDAY, OCT. 15

Robinson Runners, Robinson Pre serve, 1704 99th St. N.W., Bradenton, 7 a.m.

Saturday mornings at the NEST, Rob inson Preserve Mosaic Nest, 840 Ninth Ave. N.W., Bradenton, 9 a.m. to noon.

Love it like a local beach cleanup, Coquina Beach, 2650 Gulf Drive S., Bradenton Beach, 9 a.m.-noon. Meditation, Island Branch Library, 5701 Marina Drive, Holmes Beach, 10 a.m.

Bayfest, presented by the AMI Chamber, Pine Avenue, Anna Maria, 10 a.m.-9 p.m.

MONDAY, OCT. 17

Author Talk, “Oh, Florida” by Craig Pittman, Island Branch Library, 5701 Marina Drive, Holmes Beach, 6 p.m.

returns on Saturday to Pine Avenue in Anna Maria

21st

BY JASON SCHAFFER SUN CORRESPONDENT | jschaffer@amisun.com

family-

ANNA MARIA – Hurricane Ian did not stop Bayfest.

The 21st annual party on Pine Avenue returns Saturday, Oct. 15 for a day-long celebration from 10 a.m. to 9 p.m., free to the public and family friendly.

Highlights include a variety of food vendors for every taste, arts and crafts vendors, plenty of beer, wine and rum and a car show from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m.

This year’s Bayfest will feature live music all day with emcee Mike Sales. Musical acts include the Trevor Bys trom Band, Lisa and the Island Hop pers, the Karen and Jimmy Band and the Dr. Dave Band closing out the day.

The Anna Maria Island Chamber of Commerce, which hosts Bayfest, is still seeking volunteers for various shifts at the event. Anyone interested should contact the Chamber at 941-778-1541 or info@amichamber.org.

Surfrider needs Bayfest volunteers

Come out to Bayfest on Saturday, Oct. 15 and volunteer your time to help members of the Suncoast Surfrider Foundation assist with recycling and visitor education. Vol unteers are needed from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. with a two-hour commitment to help with onsite recycling efforts and educating visitors about the damage caused by single-use plastics and the environmental impacts of waste dis posal. To volunteer, contact William Romberger at 941-504-7821.

JASON SCHAFFER | SUN

The Dr. Dave Band, returning to headline this year, performed while people browsed local vendors at the 2021 Bayfest.

Wildlife Inc. cares for animals during, after hurricane

BY LESLIE LAKE SUN CORRESPONDENT | leslielake@aol.com

BRADENTON BEACH - With crates full of hungry adult and baby rescue animals at Wild life Education and Rehabilita tion Inc., it was business as usual following Hurricane Ian, despite the power outages.

The non-profit found itself with more than 140 new ani mals after the storm.

“Without power, we had generators going,” Wildlife Inc. volunteer Krista Carpenter said. “We were able to keep our refrigeration needed to keep the formulas cold and other items frozen.”

Carpenter said the micro wave was used to heat rice bags, heating pads and bags full of water to keep the babies warm.

“We had several volunteers that stayed on the Island,” Car penter said. “Gail (Wildlife Inc. co-director Gail Straight) kept vigil for the babies, keeping the generators running. Basi cally, she was a one-person show with some help from her husband, Ed.”

“We are working hard to do the very best we can for every single one of them, while still working with limited resourc es,” according to the Wildlife Inc. Facebook page, where donations are accepted.

Wildlife Inc. is a fully-

After being hit by a car in July, gopher tortoise Trixie was released after three months of treatment at the Anna Maria Island-based animal rescue organization, Wildlife Inc.

equipped clinic with incuba tors and cages needed to house, feed and rehabilitate wildlife. Founded by Ed and Gail Straight in 1988, the operation is run out of their

Bradenton Beach home.

“We have professional staff and volunteers who manage the feeding and care of the thousands of animals each year. Our ultimate goal is to

release native wildlife back into the wild,” according to the Wildlife Inc. website. “We also receive calls from the public about injured animals and send trained staff out to assist

and transport wildlife to our facility when necessary. This is currently a “free” service to the public and is supported, like all of our other services, through generous charitable donations.”

One animal, recently re leased after a three-month rehab at the facility, was a gopher tortoise that had been hit by a car in the Lakewood Ranch area.

“Shannon Warren called the facility on July 3 about an injured gopher tortoise that lived in the hedges near her house and it had been hit by a car,” Carpenter said. “Shan non arrived with the tortoise (nicknamed Trixie) and it had a rather large shell crack… the (shell) pieces were care fully and as closely matched as possible.”

After three months of treat ment and healing at Wildlife Inc., Trixie was ready to be released.

“On Oct. 4, Trixie was ready,” Carpenter said. “Her shell was stable, her appetite good and her playfulness returned. Back to Lakewood Ranch she went to live out her life under the neighborhood hedges.”

KRISTA CARPENTER/WILDLIFE INC. | SUBMITTED

Hurricane debris clearing underway

ANNA MARIA ISLAND – With cleanup from Hurricane Ian underway, Waste Pro and Waste Management have begun regular household trash pickups on the Island, however, while yard debris is being collected, recycling is not.

Manatee County staff has created temporary recycling centers for residents to drop off clean, sorted recyclables at Bayfront Park in Anna Maria, Manatee Beach in Holmes Beach and Coquina Beach in Bradenton Beach. These are all smaller collection sites with limited capacity. If you’re able, Manatee County officials are asking that everyone take their recyclables to the recycling col lection center at the Lena Road landfill, 3333 Lena Road in Bradenton.

Both Waste Pro and Waste Manage ment customers can expect their trash and yard debris to be picked up on the regular schedule for their area. For any hurricane debris placed by the road for pickup - including limbs, leaves and fencing - the items need to be bundled or bagged.

Contractors hired by city leaders to pick up curbside hurricane debris also will pick up piles of limbs, fencing and

SUBMITTED | FEMA

This diagram shows how to properly divide trash and debris to have it picked up as quickly as possible.

other items without them being bundled or bagged. The pickup of these items will depend on equipment capacity and the schedule of these contractors, so it’s pos sible that pickup could happen earlier or later than with regular trash and yard waste pickup.

To arrange for furniture, refrigerators, freezers or other large items to be picked up, property owners are asked to contact Manatee County utilities at 941-792-8811 to schedule a special pickup. Each prop erty receives one free pickup per year. Additional pickups may incur a fee.

Turtle Watch director dies after fall

BY LESLIE LAKE

SUN CORRESPONDENT | leslielake@aol.com

ANNA MARIA ISLAND

– Suzi Fox, a longtime former Island resident and executive director of Anna Maria Island Turtle Watch and Shorebird Monitor ing, died last week at HCA Florida Blake Hospital.

Fox, 65, died due to com plications following a fall at home on Sept. 24, according to family members, who said her death was unexpected. Her son, Dereck Norfleet, said she had been in the hospital for six days prior to her death.

Fox’s interest in the Island’s sea turtles began in 1990. She had moved with her mother and sisters from Michigan to Miami, where she was a hotel manager, then they relocated again to Anna Maria Island. Her turtle career began after she found a turtle nest at Bayfront Park.

She told The Sun in 2011 she felt she had a calling and joined the organiza tion’s 40 volunteers.

“We didn’t go to all the training we go to today,” because so little was known about sea turtles at the time, she told The Sun on the occasion of her 20th anniversary with Turtle Watch. Most turtle eggs were dug up and relocated to hatcheries, then the hatchlings were raised for several weeks before their release into the Gulf of Mexico.

As more became known about sea turtles, some in the organization de cided to try nature’s way, and leave the eggs in their nests to hatch. Fox agreed to try it for a year.

“I wasn’t certain this was going to work,” she said. “The first nest we left

on the beach was at Park Avenue. We saw it hatch and I was so excited.”

In 1996, Fox became the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Com mission’s turtle permit holder for the Island, adding nesting shorebird moni toring and protection to her duties.

Under her directorship, the organiza tion grew. According to the AMITW website: “For 30+ years Anna Maria Island Turtle Watch (AMITW) has coordinated conservation efforts for 12 miles of Manatee County shore line. In three decades, we monitored 7,339 turtle activities, protected 4,454 nests, 301,694 turtle eggs, and watched 271,680 hatchlings depart to become a future generation of loggerheads that will return to the region as they reach maturity – in about 30 years.”

Sea turtles broke both nesting and hatchling records this year on the Island.

In an email to The Sun from Charlie Hunsicker, director of the Manatee County Natural Resources Department, he wrote, “Words cannot explain the complications of life and fleeting mo ments mixed with joy of recovery and tragic endings. She will live on each and every time we remember her smile, her passion, and her good works for all the creatures that relied upon her for their very existence on the Island.”

Fox moved from the Island to West Bradenton a few months ago.

She is survived by her son Dereck, his wife Katherine, and their two chil dren, Elizabeth and Ashley. She is also survived by her sister, Nanci Banman and her husband Gene, and her sister, Kendra Fox.

The family said that a memorial ser vice will be planned for later this year at the beach.

Fox

CINDY LANE | SUN Suzi Fox and her late partner, Skip, patrol Anna Maria Island’s beaches for signs of sea turtle nesting.

CINDY LANE | SUN Suzi Fox directs onlookers during the 2015 release of a loggerhead sea turtle at Bayfront Park in Anna Maria.

Commissioners give budget final approval

Holmes Beach commissioners passed a final reading of the new fiscal year budget as Ian was bearing down on Florida.

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

HOLMES BEACH – Commis sioners passed the final reading and public hearing for the 202223 fiscal year budget with only days to spare and a major hurri cane close to making landfall just to the city’s south.

City leaders had set Sept. 27 as the date of the second and final vote and public hearing for the new budget ahead of the Oct. 1 start of the fiscal year, however, the arrival of Hurricane Ian and a mandatory evacuation notice for Anna Maria Island upset those plans. To keep the meeting plans on track, commissioners met at city hall but the public was al lowed to participate and speak through Zoom.

Commissioners voted 4-1, with Commissioner Jayne Christenson

dissenting, to pass both the proposed 2.07 millage rate and the $25,336,242 proposed break-even budget.

The 2.07 millage rate is less than the previous 2.25 millage rate, however, it still creates a 6.1% increase for taxpayers over last year’s numbers due to increases in property values over the past year.

The new budget accounts for $260,605 in mayor and com mission spending, $1,725,857 in general government expenses, $793,646 to fund the city’s code compliance department, $5,105,342 in funding for the Holmes Beach Police Depart ment, $3,794,994 in public works expenses and $1,358,154 to fund the building department. Other expenditures include $2,919,647 from the collected stormwater utility fees, $11,000 from the fifthcent gas tax, $725,925 from the half-cent tax and $6,375,912 in carryover and reserve funds.

Revenue sources include $888,163 in state resources, $11,852,380 from local sources, including taxes paid by property owners, and $12,595,699 in car

ryover and reserves.

Christenson said she was vot ing against the millage rate and budget because she feels that the city could “do better” and reduce taxes for city property owners further than the .18 cut in the millage rate.

Commissioner Kim Rash, who is not running for re-election in November, said he hopes that future commissions can do more to reduce the financial burden on taxpayers.

Mayor Judy Titsworth said there’s only so much that city lead ers can do considering infrastruc ture and other city-wide repairs and replacements that need to be made as quickly as possible to combat the rising demand on roads, sewers, storm drains, water and other resources, along with increases in tourist populations that require more police officers to keep city streets safe. However, she added that city staff members are constantly seeking out other funding sources, including grant opportunities, to reduce the mon ies needed from taxpayers.

Where’s Esther?

Loggerhead sea turtle Esther, who was satellite-tagged on Coquina Beach on June 20 after nesting, isn’t covering the miles of her competitors in the Tour de Turtles like Dobby, who currently leads the race, but she braved Hurricane Ian in the vicinity of its landfall and continues to swim off the coast of Fort Myers. She’s holding her ninth place spot, having traveled a total of 443 miles since the start of the Sea Turtle Conservan cy’s 13th Annual Tour de Turtles race on Aug. 1. Esther is one of 15 turtles competing in her division in the event, with the title going to the turtle that travels the most distance between Aug. 1 and Oct. 31. Esther is competing to raise awareness of light pollution, and is sponsored by Waterline Villas & Marinas and Mainsail Vacation Rentals.

Volunteers help with Hurricane Ian recovery

Anna Maria Island may have avoided major damage when Hurricane Ian rolled through the area, however, some neighboring communities to the south were not so lucky. Volunteers from in and around Manatee County have been traveling south over the past week with supplies and helping hands. Two local groups, West Manatee Fire Rescue District and Roser Memorial Community Church, have each sent teams south to help with rescue and cleanup efforts. WMFR sent a team of three firefighter/paramedics along with the district’s fire response boat south on Oct. 5 to assist with water res cue and urban search and rescue efforts. The group’s transportation vehicle was furnished by the North River Fire Rescue District to tow the boat. One of Roser’s members and the church’s financial specialist, Matt Meehan, volunteered to join workers from Samaritan’s Purse in Englewood for cleanup efforts. He was joined by church member Randy Swain and facilities admin istrator Charles Wade to help assess damage and begin residential cleanup in impacted communities. Samari tan’s Purse is still seeking volunteers to help with storm recovery from Hurricane Ian. To donate or volunteer, visit www.samaritanspurse.org.

How to apply for FEMA help

Individuals and families needing assistance due to damages caused by Hurricane Ian can apply for fed eral assistance online at www.fema.gov/disaster/4673 or call to get answers to related questions by calling 1-800-621-3363 ext. 711 or 1-800-621-3362.

Have the following information available:

• Address with zip code

• Condition of damage to home

• Insurance information

• Social Security number

• Contact phone number

It is anticipated that FEMA will establish locations in Mana tee County for residents to submit applications in person.

FROM PAGE 3

a regional president of Florida Power & Light and a conference call with the CEO. We got things resolved and got our power restored,” Murphy said.

He noted the power restoration efforts were delayed in part by utility linemen hav ing to wait for vegetation removal crews to complete their work before they could ac cess the damaged power lines and electrical equipment.

Murphy also commented on Manatee County’s decision to cut water service to the Island prior to Hurricane Ian’s arrival to prevent the county water system from becoming compromised.

“The water being cut off was a first that I’m aware of,” Murphy said. “My primary concern was the sanitation aspect, but also what if we had a fire? Having one tanker truck out here is not enough to handle this Island if there’s a fire. People are using gen erators and handling gasoline in high winds and that increases the probability of a fire. That’s something that needs to be brought up in our post-hurricane discussion.”

Murphy was pleased with the performance of the city’s stormwater system.

“Our stormwater system worked fantastic,” he said. “We had some flooding on the north end by Bean Point, and we had a couple other flooded streets, but a day and a half after the storm passed there was no flooding. It was all dry. The street sweeper swept the streets Sunday night, is coming back tonight and we’ll probably have him come back next week too.

During debris removal you get more litter in the streets.”

Murphy praised the city staff for its ef forts.

“My staff worked diligently. They were working 14 to 16 hours a day. Everybody pitched in. I’m exceptionally proud of this city staff. They’re as good or better than any staff I’ve ever had. They were dedicated and they kept their focus despite the emotions running high for some of our residents.

They did a great job,” Murphy said.

Murphy was asked if he learned any new lessons before, during and after Hurricane Ian.

“You always learn something. This

time around, I never felt we were totally prepared. There are more things we need to do. After Hurricane Irma, we thought we knew everything. The city hall generator initially failed and we didn’t have a backup for that. We’re going to put universal back up battery packs on all of our computers and modems. That needs to be addressed,” Murphy said.

“From a communications point of view, we need to redesign our website so our messages are clearer. When we opened up city hall, we were slammed with calls from vacation rental guests who had pending reservations. They wanted to know if the city was open and whether power and water services had been restored. That’s another lesson to be learned: how to improve those lines of communication and

get accurate and clear estimated power and water restoration times. Information and updates were hard to get. I get that many of those resources were deployed in the harder-hit areas south of us, but I just need to know when we’re going to get our services restored,” Murphy said.

Murphy expressed gratitude that the city and the Island came through the hurricane as well as it did.

“I think all of us breathed a collective sigh of relief that our Island was spared of the devastation that happened in Sanibel and Fort Myers, Fort Myers Beach and Naples. Hurricane Charley dodged us and Irma just brushed us. Hopefully, our residents don’t become complacent. This should serve as a wake-up call for all of us that this could happen to us,” Murphy said.

Manatee County community level of COVID-19 transmission

The new COVID-19 booster vaccines aimed at fighting the omicron subvariants are now available at local pharmacies, including CVS and Walgreens in Holmes Beach.

Boaters grab

nautical treasures at flea market

New fiscal year off and running at The Center

Many capital improve ment projects are going on at The Center.

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

ANNA MARIA – Anyone who’s been to The Center of Anna Maria Island recently has probably noticed a flurry of construction work.

The new fiscal year started July 1 and financial results from that first month have been released. While the numbers show The Center ending July with -$76,765 in net income after all expenses, it’s not necessarily a negative issue considering that his torically, the late summer months are lean months for the nonprofit leading up to high season in the winter and spring with the return of snowbirds and several signature fundraising events.

Everything

fishing gear to musical instruments was up for grabs at the annual Cortez Nauti cal Flea Market last Saturday

the Florida

The nonprofit is in the midst of a number of capital improvements, including having the exterior pres sure washed and repainted, replacing the shade sails over the playground, remodeling the foyer, replacing floor ing on the first floor and completely remodeling the second-floor bath rooms and showers, just to name a few. Executive Director Chris Cul hane said the renovations have been long-planned and are being done in the off-season to lessen the impact on Center members.

The improvements began as sum mer camps drew to a close and the nonprofit’s new fiscal year began.

In July, The Center brought in $105,617 from programs, with $65,696 in direct costs and $62,691 in general, indirect and administra tive expenses to create a $22,769 loss from operations. Fundraising brought in $22,855, though coupled with di rect costs of $44,385, that cost center ended the month with a $44,300 loss.

After $32,465 in capital expenses for the ongoing improvements at The Center, the nonprofit ended with -$76,765 in net income.

To view The Center’s financial statements, visit www.centerami.org.

Homemade pancakes

Paul Foster

GINNY'S AND JANE E'S CAFE AND GIFT STORE

For many of us, is there anything better than a stack of homemade pancakes, served with butter and maple syrup, to start your day off? It is a breakfast item most of us grew up with. Pancakes have been enjoyed for thousands of years. How do we know this? When they found Otzi, the frozen iceman, they found he had consumed pancakes the day he met his demise, as they were found in his digestive tract. After his time, Greek and Roman history finds that they made pancakes using curdled milk, olive oil, honey and, of course, flour. They were eaten often with berries for breakfast, lunch or dinner. A staple of their diets.

Today, we even have a pancake day or, should I say, days. It happens twice a year, occurring in February and September. Pancake day was initially created by early Christians to use up all their milk and eggs before Lent, a period of fasting. Is there a better way to start a diet or a fasting period than with pancakes?

Maple syrup is strictly a treat, produced in Canada and the United States. It was discovered centuries ago by the indigenous people that lived here. The combination of maple sugar and pancakes was probably founded in the 1500s when the European settlers arrived. Could have been either the English or the French. There is no exact time known. But whoever put these two wonderful items together, we thank them. I grew up in an English household. The pancakes I grew up with were a thicker type of crepe. Crepes are a pancake made

My Mom would make three at a time, squeeze fresh lemon and sprinkle sugar and roll them up. My brother and I would see who could eat the most.

But when I left the house, it was thick fluffy pancakes, served with butter and maple syrup all the way. I use this recipe at home and love to make pancakes for those that are used to an “add water to dry mix” from the store. There is no comparison. At Ginny’s and Jane E’s, we use this same recipe, made from scratch and served daily with maple syrup. I hope you enjoy it.

Homemade

Pancakes

Ingredients (serves 8)

¼ cup butter

2 eggs

1 pint whole milk

1.5 cups flour

3 tablespoons white granulated sugar

2 tablespoons baking powder

1 teaspoon salt

Directions

In a large bowl, sift flour, baking powder, salt and sugar together. Make a bowl in the middle and add melted butter, eggs and milk. Mix until the batter is smooth. Heat a pan to mediumhigh. Use butter to cook the pancakes in and heat at a temperature so as not to burn the butter. You can use canola oil as well and they will brown up very nicely, although not quite the flavor you get from butter.

Calm, not crime as Ian passes

No looting, no violence and very few issues were reported by police as Hurricane Ian visited Anna Maria Island.

BY JASON SCHAFFER SUN CORRESPONDENT | jschaffer@amisun.com

ANNA MARIA ISLAND – While the aftermath of hurricanes often includes an increase in crime, the Island was spared both that and the worst of Ian’s wrath.

“Nobody reported any looting, any break-ins or any real crime during and in the days after Ian,” Bradenton Beach Police Lt. Lenard Diaz said. “Actually, as scary and as close as this hurricane was, it was a really good turnaround.”

Diaz said his department suffered significant damage to the roof of its building, but all police vehicles, includ ing the department’s boat, were not damaged.

Holmes Beach Police Lt. Brain Hall said his department did not suffer any damage to buildings or vehicles, and agreed with Diaz that things were orderly and calm.

“We haven’t had any reports of crime related to the storm either; we’ve been

very fortunate with that,” he said. “We were back out here early in the morn ing the day after the storm. It’s actually been a really smooth transition trying to get back to normal.”

Both Bradenton Beach and Holmes Beach police said that officers were present on the Island until the sus tained winds reached 45 mph, at which time officers evacuated the Island. There were approximately 24 hours during which there was no police pres ence on the Island.

The Manatee County Sheriff’s Office, which patrols the City of Anna Maria, did not respond to The Sun’s request for comment.

Both departments praised the work of the line workers who have come from hundreds and even a thousand miles or more to help restore power and get things back up and running.

Both Diaz and Hall also said they were very impressed with how serious ly most people took evacuation orders, and virtually no one remained in their cities. Had the Island been hit directly, police say this would have saved many lives, and should be the model for future evacuations.

OUTDOORS

Memories of Matlacha

Reel Time

RUSTY CHINNIS

o one who lives on the coast of Florida has escaped the fury of a hurricane in one form or another. Here on the Suncoast, we’ve managed to dodge the worst of the damage that these increasingly frequent and powerful storms bring, both to those of us who live here and the unique

Now, for the second time in the last two decades, a hurricane (Charley, then Ian) that was predicted to impact us directly devastated an area less than two hours to our south. As we were spared, one of Florida’s most prized angling destinations has been forever altered by what is being called one of the most powerful and dam aging storms ever.

As I ponder the unimaginable tragedy

that the inhabitants of this region are living through, my thoughts keep returning to memories of better times, as a boat rises to a plane, Smokehouse Bay’s labyrinth of mangrove-lined channels stretching out in the distance to Matlacha Pass. The feel of the soft southwest Florida breeze in my hair causing me to remove my cap and lift my gaze to the promise of the day ahead. This is how I will forever remember Pine Island, Matlacha, Cayo Costa and the myriad islands that dot Pine Island Sound and Charlotte Harbor. I first visited this area in the early 90s and it instantly became my favorite “travel” destination. Just an hour and a half south of our home waters of Sarasota Bay and Anna Maria Sound, these communities and the waters that surround them were among the finest examples of an “Old Florida” that is quickly disappearing. Located seven miles south of fabled Boca Grande Pass, Matlacha and Pine Island are bookmarked by the aquatic preserves that bear their name and Little Pine Island, an uninhabited, 4,700-acre island. These unique communities still

hadn’t been spoiled by development and Matlacha’s streets were lined with quaint, brightly-colored homes, businesses and art galleries. On Pine Island, the communities of St. James City, Bokeelia and Pineland featured only one traffic signal. Conspicu ously absent were the shopping malls and high rises that blight much of Florida’s

RUSTY CHINNIS | SUN

coastal landscape. With a little imagination, anglers could visualize a seascape reminis cent of what the first settlers might have found then.

While the history of Matlacha spans less than a hundred years, Pine Island’s first

One of the colorful businesses of Matlacha.

October brings fishing changes

CAPT. KEVIN WESSELL

With October comes some changes in local fishing. This month, I look for snook to begin working their way back into the bays and rivers. The water is beginning to cool ever so slightly, which will help the bite. Redfish will continue to be a huge contender up on the flats this month before they slowly start to break apart from their spawning schools, which have been taking place on the full and new moons the past couple of months. Large schools of bait will show up off the beaches and passes this month, bringing Spanish mackerel, king mackerel and false albacore. Situate your self just in front of the path of crashing fish and bird activity. Don’t be frustrated if this takes a few tries. These fish move fast and check direction at the drop of a hat!

Night snook fishing will remain full of action this month. Focus on moving tides. Anglers using fly tackle will have great luck on 6-8 wt floating lines with a Grassett min now. Spin casting with either live shrimp or suspending plugs have worked well lately. Juvenile tarpon love this rain water runoff! Freshwater forage is a huge part of their genetic makeup. Look for them around any type of spillway, dam or creek mouths. The dark water fishery can be frustrating to get your bait in front of the fish. To maximize your chances of getting that fish’s attention, use bright colors or noisemaking lures and flies. I love black and gold plugs for this.

CAPT. RICK GRASSETT

Fishing should turn on this month. Schools of reds will begin to break up and scatter on shallow flats. There should also be good action with snook and big trout in shallow water. Snook will gorge themselves at night around lighted docks in the ICW. There should also be good action in the coastal Gulf of Mexico with Spanish mack erel, false albacore (little tunny), tripletail and cobia. You might also still find tarpon anywhere from upper Char lotte Harbor and Tampa Bay to along the beaches.

REEL TIME: Memories of Matlacha

FROM PAGE 18

documented settlers, the Calusa, are thought to have inhabited the island from approximately 30 AD until just after 1513 when the Spanish conquistador, Ponce de Leon, arrived. Anglers who have fished these rich waters could visualize the clear waters and their vast seagrass beds as the Calusa might have. Even these first settlers experienced devastating storms, as is evidenced by artifacts found on their mounds in Pineland, which is the site of a museum and interpretive center. While there is a history of destructive storms constantly altering the resilient marine landscape, recovery is now impeded by “civilization” that taxes these waters with sewage, agricultural runoff and the thousand other cuts that development has brought in its wake. This is a cautionary tale reminding us to take care of our habitat and waters so that when they are impacted by a hurricane, they have a better chance at recovery. That’s also why it’s urgent that Island residents and anglers be part of the solution by working with advocacy groups like Suncoast Waterkeeper. You have an opportu nity to hear about the work they are doing and support their efforts by attending their annual fundraiser, Brunch For The Bay, at the Bradenton Yacht Club this Satur day, Oct. 15. The continued health of the area we love depends on our commitment to action.

Spotted seatrout has reopened to harvest in southwest Florida with a three-fish-per-person bag limit and a six-fish boat limit. Trout must be from 15”-19” with one allowed per vessel over 19.” I feel that it’s important to protect these larger trout, which are usually female breeders.

Snook remains closed to

harvest in the Charlotte Harbor area. Full regulations and details can be viewed at https://myfwc.com/

Snook will move from passes and the surf as water temperature cools and days get shorter. They will stage around docks and bridges in the ICW and along sandbars, potholes and along mangrove shorelines. They may blow up on top water plugs or fly poppers in shallow water early or late in the day. CAL jigs with shad tails and jerk worms or DOA Shrimp should work well around docks and bridges and on shallow flats. The 4” CAL shad tail should work very well on the flats since larger baits will be prevalent there. I like larger flies, like Lefty’s Deceiver and my Grassett Flats Bunny, for snook on the flats for the same reason. Fly anglers should also score with small white flies or Gurglers around lighted docks and bridge fenders. Fish peak tidal flows for the best action.

Tarpon will still be an option this month. I find them in upper Charlotte Harbor this time of year. Look for them feeding in ladyfish schools or rolling in deep water to

find them. DOA Baitbusters and Swimming Mullet are my top-producing lures for large tarpon. Fly anglers should score with many of the same flies that work for sight casting to them along the beaches. I use 12-wt fly tackle with a floating or clear intermediate sink tip line for large tarpon. You’ll also find juvenile tarpon from 10-30 pounds in many creeks and canals. Spin anglers should score with DOA Shrimp or TerrorEyz on snook tackle. Fly anglers can handle the smaller fish on 8- or 9-wt fly rods with sink tip fly lines and a scaled-down version of any fly that large tarpon will eat. I’ve also found tarpon feeding in the coastal Gulf in October. They are usually scattered over a broad area, feeding in bait schools. This “re verse migration” may only last for a short while but it can be really good!

Big schools of reds that are more com mon in August and September will break up into smaller schools, singles and doubles by the end of the month. As water cools and baitfish school up, reds will feed in shallow water. I like to pole my flats skiff to hunt for reds in shallow water. Focus on baitfish or mullet schools to find reds. CAL jigs with shad tails, including the 4” CAL shad tail and DOA Baitbusters are some of my favorite lures to locate reds with. If the tide is very low, weedless-rigged CAL shad tails or DOA Shrimp rigged backwards will work well in the thick turtle grass. Once I’ve located fish, wading is often the best way to approach them when fly fishing. I like a long leader (12’) on a floating fly line with a lightly weighted fly with a weed guard, like my Grassett Flats Minnow. When you have good sunlight, you may be able to sight-fish them on light-colored bottom, like sandbars or potholes.

You’ll also find big trout in many of the same areas in shallow water. I would ap proach locating big trout the same way as reds. Focus on baitfish or mullet schools to find them and use the same lures and flies to catch them. Some of the best action that I’ve experienced with big trout was at first light with big trout feeding in baitfish schools in very shallow water.

CAPT. RICK GRASSETT | SUBMITTED

Kyle Ruffing, of Sarasota, had good action catching and releasing reds and snook in shallow water on DOA CAL Shads while fishing Gasparilla Sound with Capt. Rick Grassett last October.

Farmer’s Market returns to City Pier Park

The City of Anna Maria Farmer’s Market is back at City Pier Park every Tuesday from 8:30 a.m. to 2 p.m. The market on the corner of Pine Avenue and South Bay Boulevard features Southwest Florida produce, baked goods, jams, honey, gourmet food and more. The famous Anna Maria Island Historical Society Settler’s Bread will also be offered with all proceeds going to the society’s scholarship fund.

Donate to the Friends jewelry sale

The Friends of the Island Branch Library are planning something a little different for March 2023. Instead of hosting their annual book sale, the group plans to hold a jewelry sale due to a lack of space to store book dona tions. Donations of gently used jewelry are welcome including bracelets, neck laces, earrings, pins, rings, tie tacks, cuff links, watches and other items. Both fine jewelry and costume pieces are accepted. In addition, small accesso ries such as wallets and scarves also are welcome for donation. All donations can be dropped off in a sealed plastic bag at the Island Branch Library, 5701 Marina Drive in Holmes Beach. Tax receipts are available at the circulation desk for all donors. All proceeds from the sale will go to benefit the Island Branch Library.

AMI Chamber luncheon at Slickers

The Anna Maria Island Chamber of Commerce will hold its next network ing event at Slicker’s Eatery in Cortez on Thursday, Oct. 13 from 11:30 a.m. to 1 p.m. The fee is $18 for members and $30 for non-members. This is an opportunity to mingle with Chamber members, exchange business cards and enjoy a meal. All attendees are encouraged to bring a raffle prize for added recognition. Slicker’s is located at 12012 Cortez Road W. and RSVP can be made by calling 941-778-1541 or by contacting becky@amichamber.org.

Coastal cleanup at Coquina Beach

The Bradenton Area Convention and Visitors Bureau and Keep Manatee Beautiful are holding their Love it Like a Local Coastal Cleanup on Saturday, Oct. 15 at Coquina Beach from 9 a.m. to 12 p.m. Amanda Champ from Surfing Coconuts is offering $2 off her coconut drinks at Bayfest to anyone bringing proof they were at the cleanup that day. For more information, or to register, visit www.loveitlikelocals.com or www. manateebeautiful.com.

JOE HENDRICKS | SUN

BB CLEANUP: Debris removal completed

FROM PAGE 3

Cosby said the city clerk’s office and other staff members packed up all the vital public records and helped trans port them to the designated off-Island storage facility and also assisted with the city’s evacuation efforts. Before the storm arrived, public works department personnel removed benches, trash cans and other items that could become air borne during the hurricane. They also boarded up the city buildings.

“Everybody did exactly what needed to be done – public works, the police department and the entire city staff,” Cosby said.

“I commend them all, including my officers who were back on patrol and mingling with residents during the first few days when we had no power. Public Works immediately began formulating a plan for debris removal and coordinated with WastePro for an additional courtesy pickup. We were also able to get them to do an ad ditional pickup in coordination with public works. Public works deployed two tractors and a truck and stored the debris in the parking lot next to the cell tower until it could be hauled away by WastePro,” Cosby said.

Cosby said the previously declared and extended state of local emergency was scheduled to expire on Oct. 10.

BUILDINGS DAMAGED

Cosby said the police department building and adjacent public works de partment building both suffered water infiltration during Hurricane Ian. He said the Florida League of Cities had already sent one of its contractors out to inspect the damage and place tarps on both of those buildings.

Cosby said the police department building lost a lot of shingles and also lost some of its exterior facia, both of which contributed to the water intrusion. He

said the public works building has a hole in its roof and also lost a lot of shingles.

LESSONS LEARNED

Cosby was asked if any lessons were learned before, during and after Hur ricane Ian.

“The biggest thing this time was the constant shifting of the storm and try ing to organize staff. We had warnings, they were canceled, we had warnings again. It was difficult to get staff sched uled appropriately,” he said.

Phones and internet service at city hall remained out of service for a few days after the power was restored. The lack of phone and internet service resulted in the Oct. 5 CRA meeting and the Oct. 6 city commission meeting be ing canceled.

“The city’s new web-based phone system has backup capabilities that we’re going to look into so we hope fully have fewer issues with getting the phones back up and running the next time,” Cosby said.

MAYOR’S COMMENTS

When contacted Thursday, Mayor Chappie shared his thoughts on the city’s preparation and recovery efforts.

“I can’t say enough good things about our staff. Our police department, our public works department, our clerks and administration department and our building department all did a stellar job for the residents and visitors of our com munity. We also had great cooperation with Manatee County,” Chappie said.

“The fact that we’re already cleaned up is great. Our new street sweeper will be out cleaning the streets of our community. The street sweeper can also be used to vacuum the drainage grates and stormwater catch basins, which is one of the reasons we recently purchased this vehicle,” Chappie said.

The city’s new street sweeper and vacuum truck assisted with the hurricane cleanup efforts.

REAL ESTATE

The Ian effect

My friend who lived near me in Cortez calls it the “Cortez Effect.”

The legend is that the Native Americans who inhabited the Cortez pen insula put a curse on the storms so they wouldn’t come ashore in their homeland, keeping their burial grounds protected. She and I lived through many storms and almost-storms during the more than 20 years we both lived in Cortez, and we always seemed to dodge the bullet. Well, this time we dodged the biggest bullet of all, and we should all be grateful.

The other question is now that we’re all safe and comfortable, we can start to think about the economic impact of one of the most expensive storms to ever hit Florida. The economists are already addressing this and indicate that Ian will likely negatively affect the economic growth of the coun try through this year. Typically, when the rebuilding and recovery starts, the economic benefits will be spread out over the next few years. Unfortunately, because of the short age of construction workers and materials,

Castles in the Sand

LOUISE BOLGER

Florida’s economic comeback could take some time.

The economists’ consensus is that natural disasters have a relatively modest economic impact, especially short term once businesses start to rebuild and reopen. As far as real estate values, Florida’s worst hit regions were also the fastest growing in the state and indeed the country and won’t be permanently damaged. The unemployment rate in both Tampa and Fort Myers were 2.7% in August, lower than the national rate. Both of these regions have seen a rapid influx of new residents during the pandemic. In addition, Florida’s economic growth has outpaced the country’s every quar ter since the beginning of 2021.

Long-term Florida residents are used to major storms, and they and the state have prepared for them. In May the state set aside $2 billion to help insurance companies handle claims. That said, you can be sure the fallout for insurance companies will be big. Underfunded companies may go out of busi ness, homeowner’s policies will be dropped, and rates will go up. This is just what we don’t need at a time that attracting new insurance companies to the state has been a challenge. As always, my recommendation is if you have a good homeowner’s policy and you don’t get dropped, live with the possible premium increase and be happy, especially for the next few years.

Finally, the U.S. Census Bureau and the Bureau of Labor Statistics say that the earn ings of people affected by hurricanes out paced other workers who weren’t affected within three years of the storm. As previ ously stated, this is all because of workers needed to help rebuild and get the economy rolling again.

There will be pain at the beginning a lot

of it - just look at those awful pictures from our neighbors not too far south and try and imagine yourself in that situation. Help is needed, mostly donations - especially to the Red Cross - but anything you and your family can do to ease their pain even a little would certainly be appreciated.

I don’t hold a lot of belief in legends, and, as another friend pointed out, maybe the in digenous Native Americans actually studied weather patterns over a period of decades and never really cast spells. But legend or not, we in Cortez and on Anna Maria Island have been extraordinarily lucky, and we shouldn’t forget that eventually luck runs out. Let’s remember that in 1921 the Cortez fishing village was all but destroyed by a major hurricane.

This is October, the month of Halloween, so let’s hope the Native Americans are still casting their magic spells, if indeed that’s the reason. I for one want to believe whatever keeps those storms away, magic spells or the study of weather science. I’ll accept either one as long as it works.

BEACH BEAT

BRADENTON BEACH

9/23, 11:36 p.m., stolen vehicle, 1007 Gulf Drive N. The officer responded to a condo in reference to a stolen vehicle. The victim said she unloaded grocer ies in the parking garage then took her dog for a walk. When she returned, her vehicle was gone. She said while walk ing the dog, she saw a vehicle like hers speeding down Gulf Drive, but thought nothing of it at the time because she was not yet aware of the theft. The license plate was researched through automated readers in the area, but nothing was found. The case is pending further investigation.

9/26, 1:15 p.m., theft, 119 Bridge St. Beach Life AMI reported the theft of a vintage bicycle placed in front of the business for decoration. The bike is old and not operable, but does have value. No suspects in the theft have been identified.

HOLMES BEACH

9/29, 9:54 p.m., drug possession, 4200 Gulf Drive. After stopping a vehicle for not stopping at an inoperative traffic light during the power outage follow

ing Hurricane Ian, the driver was cited for driving on a suspended license and failure to stop. Due to the suspended license, the vehicle was to be towed, at which time officers did an inventory search of the vehicle. They found a pipe that tested positive for meth and a glass jar containing marijuana. Meth was also found in the center console. Since the drugs were within easy reach of both driver and passenger, both were charged with possession. Both driver and passenger were taken to Manatee County Jail.

10/1, 3:17 a.m., possession of controlled substance, 100 39th St. While on foot patrol, the officer saw a man park at a private parking lot, then walk toward a picnic table at the public beach park area. After explaining the beach area was not open due to the late hour, the man walked back toward his car. Since he was parked on private property, the officer asked the man for identification, which he provided. When reaching in his pocket for his ID, he also pulled out a plastic bag with a white crystal substance in it. The man was hand cuffed and the officer field tested the substance, which tested positive for the illegal substance MDPV, known as “bath salts.” The man was arrested and taken to Manatee County Jail.

OBITUARIES

Evan Clarke

Evan Clarke passed away peacefully on Sept. 19, 2022 at his home. He was 32 years old. He lived with his beloved partner, Lisa Grassi, in Parrish, Florida. She was the love of his life. He enjoyed traveling with Lisa and his favorite local spot was Ybor in Tampa.

He was a very talented and dedicated tattoo artist for 15 years and he enjoyed his work immensely. Recently he was an artist at Goodfeathers Tattoo in Bra denton, Florida. He also lived on Anna Maria Island and worked at Island Tat too in Holmes Beach, a shop he adored until red tide forced its closure.

He loved his friends and family and held them all close to his big heart. He had a fierce love and affection for all animals and also tried to help any one in need in any way that he could.

He leaves behind his mother, Patti Clarke, father, Forrest Adams, step mom, Janice Adams, several steps iblings and cherished cousins, aunts and uncles.

A celebration of life was held on Oct. 9 at Pier 22 in Bradenton, Florida.

Jack Abene

It is with great sadness that the family of Jack Anthony Abene an nounces his passing. Jack was born in Tampa, Florida on Nov. 2, 1930 and passed away at home in Bradenton, Florida on Sept. 16, 2022 at the age of 91.

Jack loved his job at the Island Players Inc., the theater on Anna Maria Island. He worked there for 18 years all the way until his final days.

Jack’s kind heart and gentle spirit will be greatly missed by family and friends.

Jack leaves behind his son, Mike; daughter, Nancy; grandsons, Sean (Ashley) and Beau (Erin); and greatgrandchildren Arianna, Joanna, Ben net and Gabriella.

A graveside service was held on Oct. 5, 2022 at Myrtle Hill Memo rial Park, 4202 E. Lake Ave., Tampa, Florida.

Fond memories and expressions of sympathy may be shared at www. ManasotaMemorial.com.

August 2022 tourist tax collections

County

*(Anna Maria Island, Bradenton, Longboat Key, unincorporated Manatee County, Palmetto)

Manatee County’s 5% resort tax, or tourist tax, is collected from owners of accommoda tions 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 August and paid to the Manatee County Tax Collector’s Office in September. 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

WATER

Commission authorizes expenditure

FROM PAGE 1

included in the meeting packet, one water taxi would depart from the Bridge Street Pier at 10:30 a.m. and make its first stop in Anna Maria. The other water taxi would depart from the downtown Bradenton dock at 10:30 a.m. en route to the City Pier in Anna Maria.

According to the fee schedule included in the meeting packet, a one-way ride will cost $8 for adults, $6 for seniors, $5 for children 3-11 years old and free for children under three. An all-day hopper pass will cost $10 for adults, $8 for seniors, $6 for children 3-11 years old, with those under three rid ing for free.

The memo notes the county will spend up to $700,000 to build two water taxis and spend an additional $350,000 per year to subsidize the operation for at least the first two years. The memo lists Coquina Beach Market revenues, surplus beach conces sion revenues and tourist development tax revenues as funding sources for the water taxi operations.

The CVB will market and promote the service throughout Manatee County and beyond.

Falcione said coolers, beach chairs and other items will be allowed on the water taxis and the water taxi design team hopes to accommodate bicycles too. The Clear water Ferry website notes Coast Guard regulations prohibit bicycles on the vessels they operate in the Clearwater area.

“The operator that we’re going to be bringing forth to you has committed to hir ing local captains that have local knowl edge of the waterways,” Hopes said.

PUBLIC INPUT

During public input, county resident Glen Gibellina said of the water taxi service: “It’s going to lose money, but that’s what transit does, and I don’t have a problem with that.”

The Clearwater Ferry website includes images of some vessels that feature protec tive siding and/or windows and some vessels that do not. After noting that he previously operated a parasailing business in Siesta Key and has a 100-ton captain’s license, Gibellina expressed concerns about water taxi passengers being exposed to inclement weather.

TERM LIMITS: On Bradenton Beach ballot WATER TAXI: Commission authorizes expenditure

FROM PAGE 4

November after serving three consecutive two-year terms in office. Mayor John Chappie and Commissioner Jake Spooner are currently scheduled to term limit out of office in November 2023. Incumbent Ward 4 commis sioner Ralph Cole is also running unopposed this year and at some point, in or after 2024, he too would term limit out of office if term limits are retained.

Voter approval of the proposed term limit amend ment would allow Maro to serve another two-year term and would allow Chappie and Spooner to seek reelection in 2023 if they so desire. If city voters reject this proposed charter amendment, Maro would leave office in November and that vacant seat would be filled by commission appointment or a special elec tion, depending on the outcome of ballot question 2. In recent years, Bradenton Beach voters have twice, by close margins, supported the retention of the city’s term limits.

EMPLOYEE BENEFITS

Ballot question 5 is logistical in nature and pertains to commission actions that require a city ordinance. Ballot question 5 reads as follows: “Currently the city charter sets forth actions requiring an ordi nance. Should the city amend the charter to remove employee personnel benefits and procedures from this section and require actions of the city regarding employee personnel benefits and procedures to be adopted in a public meeting through a resolution of the commission?”

Voter approval of this proposed amendment would have minimal impact on city residents and city opera tions and would simply streamline the manner in which employee benefits and employee procedures are addressed.

FROM PAGE 26

“You have to protect the inside of that cabin or else it’s going to be a disaster. You need to rede sign that shuttle for inclement weather,” he said.

Gibellina also addressed the potential impact the water taxis could have on Anna Maria Island’s service and hospitality industry workforce.

“You can turn this into a great workforce shuttle. The tourists might be your bread and butter, but if you can get the workers onto that Island for a reasonable price and timely manner, I think it would be a home run,” he said.

Gibellina noted that workforce transportation could be disrupted by bad weather and he said some employees who use the water taxis will still need ground trans port to their workplaces. He also suggested starting the water taxi service earlier in the morning to better accommodate workforce transportation needs.

COMMISSION COMMENTS

In response to Gibellina’s comments, Commissioner Misty Servia said, “I’m sure the design is something that will be carefully considered by the staff.”

She then said, “I would like to see our employers on the Island give

passes to their employees – not the county subsidizing it, but the employ ers on the Island who can do that as a benefit for their employees.”

Commissioner Carol Whitmore noted the City Pier in Anna Maria does not have safety rails in the area proposed for use as a water taxi landing area. The majority of the floating dock in Bradenton Beach does not feature safety rails either. Whitmore asked who would be responsible for any safety improvements needed at the city-owned docking facilities.

“We’ve already gone to all the stopping points. You’re going to have to have ADA compliance,” Falcione said. “You’re going to have to have some floating docks. The Bridge Street Pier is almost there, if not there. The Anna

Maria pier’s going to have to get some modifications. The day dock in downtown Bradenton, a little bit.” Falcione previously stated that any water taxi-related improvements made to the cityowned docking facilities would be done at the county’s expense.

During Thursday’s meeting, Falcione acknowledged the po tential for weather-related service disruptions.

“Coming out of the Manatee River, that bulkhead gets a little windy sometimes, so there’s going to be times that we’re not going to be able to run the shuttles. That’s why we have an expert with a lot of experience doing business in Florida that can help us,” he said.

“The backup will be our MCAT (bus) service,” Hopes added.

CLEARWATERFERRY.COM | SUBMITTED

This Clearwater Ferry vessel features vinyl siding that can be lowered during inclement weather.

Slim’s Place undefeated in adult soccer action

BY MONICA SIMPSON SPECAL TO THE SUN

ANNA MARIA – On the beautiful fall night at The Center, players, friends, family and referees all came together for a night of soccer, grateful to have been spared by Hurricane Ian. Even though the action on the pitch was a bit over shadowed by non-stop conversations of gratefulness on the sidelines and in the stands, the eight adult soccer teams played hard-fought battles.

In the first game last Thursday night, Joey Hutchinson had the hot foot for Slim’s Place. Scoring six of the nine goals in the game for his team, Hutchinson also made an assist in the team’s 9-6 win against Pool America.

Kris Yavalar, for Pool America, lit up the scoreboard scoring the first goal of the game, finishing with four goals and an assist. Yavalar and Hutchinson worked for position on the field throughout the match-up, ending with Hutchinson dou bling his scoring record for the season.

At the end of week three, Hutchinson leads the scoring in the league with a total of 12 points and three assists.

Slim’s Place scored three additional goals with a single by Eliza Faillace and two by Eric Pullen. Early in the game, Pullen sailed his strikes over the crossbar. Making the necessary adjustments, Pul len moved into third for scoring. With five goals, Pullen is tied with four other play ers in the scoring ranks. Amy Ivin, Kevin Roman, Keith Mahoney and Yavalar each closed out the third week of play with five goals.

For Pool America, Gerardo Urbiola Bo lano put up two points in the loss. These are the first two points of the season for Bolano.

MONICA SIMPSON | SUN

With Eric Pullen in position to help for Slim’s Place and Chris Klotz closing from the side for Pool America, Joey Hutchinson and Kris Yavalar strong-arm each other to get to the soccer ball on the community center’s pitch.

In the goal, Jack Goodier was credited with two saves in the game. Goodier was relieved by Pool America teammate and captain Chris Klotz, who had an injury in the game.

Slim’s Place’s P.J. Smargisso made criti cal saves for his team. Making six stops in the game helped his team to victory.

Ties and close scoring action was the name of the game for the rest of the night. Wash Family Construction tied Servis 1st Bank in game two. The third game of the night ended in a tie between Moss Build ers and Sato Real Estate.

Wash Family Construction’s Kevin Ro man had a hat trick in the game, while Yuri Pereira made three saves for Servis.

Pereira’s teammates put five goals on the scoreboard with solo goals by Luca Vecchio and Juan Carlo Perez.

Servis 1st Bank’s Ugur “Lucky” Durmaz matched Roman’s hat trick with three goals of his own.

In the keeper position, Mark Long

made eight critical saves in the game for Wash Family, keeping them in the game.

Tyler Brewer’s two goals helped to get the Wash Family team to the tie.

Saving 11 shots, Ryan Moss kept the shooting power of Sato Real Estate to six goals. Moss’ team, Moss Builders, made their six shots count, with six points scored in the tie-ending game.

For Moss Builders scoring, Damir Gla van had four goals, with an additional two by Daniel Hampton and Jessica Williams.

Sato Real Estate’s points came at the foot of Danny Anderson with a hat trick and two by Lindsey Styka. Teammate Pedro Gonzalez added a goal in the 6-6 game.

Ending the night, Ross Built Construc tion matched up against Gulfview Win dows & Doors. Gulfview eked out the win with two goals, scored by captain Keith Mahoney and Raul Loera.

In the 2-1 game, Gulfview’s goalie Tuna McCracken supported his team defen

sively with seven big stops in the game. Steve Oelfke made five critical saves.

Avoiding the goose egg, off an assist by Raul Castano, Eduardo Schlueter scored Ross Builts’ only goal in the game.

After three games, Slim’s Place is on top with a 3-0-0 record. With more than half the season left to play, can the Slim’s crew stay on top?

SUN SCOREBOARD

OCT. 4

YOUTH SOCCER – WEEK 3

U10

LaPensee Plumbing (2-1-0) 2

Solid Rock Construction (0-2-1) 1

Island Real Estate (3-0-0) 6

Cloud Pest Control (0-3-0) 0

U14

HSH (2-0-1) 4 Progressive Cabinetry (0-2-0) 1

Mac Parkman (0-0-1) Bye Week

OCT. 6

YOUTH SOCCER – WEEK 3

U10

Sato Real Estate (1-0-2) 1

AMI Coconuts (1-0-2) 1

ADULT SOCCER – WEEK 3

Slim’s Place (3-0-0) 9 Pool America (1-2-0) 6

Wash Family Construction (2-0-1) 5 Servis First Bank (0-2-1) 5

Sato Real Estate (0-2-1) 6 Moss Builders (1-1-1) 6

Gulfview Windows and Doors (2-1-0) 2 Ross Built Construction (1-2-0) 1

CLASSIFIED

ANNOUNCEMENTS

BEACH YOGA ON Wednes days, Saturdays & Sundays at 8:30am at the end of Pine Ave by the Sandbar Restaurant by donation. Classes on Tues days & Fridays at 8:30 at 100 Broadway St. on LBK. www.thriveyogafit.com

THE BEST VOLUNTEER position on the island. The AMI Historical Museum needs docents and bread makers. Call Kathy Primeau at 989-560-6381.

ROSER FOOD BANK needs donations of cash and non-perishable food, PAPER & PERSON

AL HYGIENE PRODUCTS. Donations boxes are located at the Church, Moose Club, and Wal green’s.

HOSPITAL VOLUNTEERS

WANTED to assist at our in formation desk, especially weekends.

Great for teens needing volunteer hours (16yrs+). Other assignments avail able. Please call the Blake Volunteer Office at 941-798-6151.

CARE GIVER

CAREGIVER LOOKING

TO provide help for that special someone. Cook ing, shopping, cleaning, Dr. appts. etc. Local on island. 30+ yrs. experience. Refer ences. Call 941-374-1227.

COMMERCIAL SALES, RENT & LEASE

HAVE YOU BEEN think ing 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 941-7564570 or 941-565-3931

KIMBERLY’S BOCO CLEAN ING is accepting new clients for general home cleaning services call 252940-3293 for free estimate Bradenton Palmetto area

EMPLOYMENT

WANTED LICENSED REALTOR! Seeking real estate agent with island expertise to join our highly productive sales team! Contact us at 941-900-4974. All calls confidential

PERSON OR PERSONS for home maintenance. 2 days per week,4 hours per day,$20/hr Clean furniture, deck ,windows, etc Call 941-713-1586

NOW HIRING ENTHUSIAS

TIC front desk and sales person and Esthetician. Leah Chavie Skincare 6646 Cortez Rd W, Bradenton 941-896-7225

The award-winning ANNA MARIA ISLAND SUN, a weekly newspaper on Florida’s Gulf Coast, is looking for a freelance reporter/photographer to cover events on this tourism-driven island. The ideal candidate will have reporting and photography experience at a commu nity newspaper and have some experience writing for a news website. Local residents or those with previous local knowledge and willing to relocate here a plus. Resumes and cover letters may be mailed to The Anna Maria Island Sun, P.O Box 1189, Anna Maria, FL 34216, Attention: Mike Field, publisher.

FISHING CHARTERS

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

FOR SALE

TOPPER FOR F150 Long bed. $100 or Best Offer. Call 941-705-7560.

HOME IMPROVEMENTS

TILE! TILE! TILE! All varia tions of tile supplied and installed. Quality workmanship. Prompt, reliable, many Island ref erences. Free estimates. Neil 941-726-3077

RENOVATION SPECALIST

ALL carpentry repairs, Wash Family Construction, locally owned and operated CBC 1258250 Call 941-7250073.

KERN CONSTRUCTION

NEW Homes & Remodel. Design/Build. Since 1968. License # CBC 1261150. Call Mike Kern 941-7781115

GET’R DONE DRYWALL, INC Specializing in Re models & Repairs. Island Resident for 20+ years. Call Neil. Cell 941-962-1194

JSAN CORPORATION Renovations Construc tion & Handyman Services 941-243-0995 Lic# CRC1332505 jsancorporation@gmail. com Flooring, Drywall, Painting, Repairs, Kitchen and Bathrooms, Trim & Doors Free Estimates. Credit Cards Accepted.

API’S DRYWALL REPAIR

15+ years experience. Free estimates. No job too small. Love to help you. Call 941-524-8067.

ISLE TILE specializing in Custom Bath/Shower & Backsplash installation. Pressure washing available. Call 941-302-8759 isletileservices.com

HOME IMPROVEMENT

Michigan General Con tractor 30+ yrs. experi ence. Large or small projects. Budget minded knowledgeable trades man will complete your project start to finish: On Time/On Budget. Call Mike 616-204-8822.

HOME SERVICES

CONCRETE FUSION, CRACK REPAIR sidewalks/ driveways. Why fix 95% of concrete when only 5% bad? Number 1 in concrete repair. Insured. Free estimate. Call Bobby 941-374-7670.

LANDSCAPING & LAWN CARE

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

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

MOVING & STORAGE

MARTIN’S MOVING

YOUR Island movers! Of fering dependable, com petitive rates. No hidden costs. 941-809-5777.

PAINTING & WALLCOVERING

PAINT! PAINT! AND MORE 28 years of experienced interior/exterior custom painting. Pressure clean ing, 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 Win egarden 941-794-0455

DONALD PERKINS

ABRACADABRA PAINTING LLC fully insured. 30 years experience. Many Island references. Call 941-7057096

POOL SERVICES

FOUR SEASONS POOL SERVICE AND CHEMI CAL SERVICES. Certi fied Pool Operator. 10 + Years Experience. Residential/commer cial. 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, Construc tion, Vacation, VRBO Rentals . Also available Pressure Washing, Roof Cleaning, Paver Sealing and Windows. Call 941565-3931.

REAL ESTATE HOMES & CONDOS FOR SALE

Have you been thinking of selling? We NEED properties to List for SALE!!! GULF FRONT, CA NAL FRONT, BAY FRONT CONDOS or HOMES ASK for BIG Alan Galletto of Island Real Estate to get it SOLD 941-232-2216

LOOKING FOR A highly motivated real estate broker to buy or sell your next home? Darcie Duncan, Broker Duncan Real Estate a lifelong island resident bringing success to her custom ers for 30 years. Proven track record brings you results! 941-725-1589

ANNUAL RENTALS – AVAIL

ABLE NOW. 1BR/1BA, fully furnished, includes util. $3,000/month. 2BR/2BA, unfurnished. $3,300/ month. 3BR/3BA, unfur nished. $4,500/month.1ST, Last, and Security Deposit required. Call Sato Real Estate, Inc 941-778-7200 or Email monica@satoreal estate.com

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

REALTOR FOR HIRE. BUYING OR SELLING on AMI? 17 years experi ence & 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 man agement or Finders fee. Call today for details. Ask for Paige DUNCAN REAL ESTATE 513-3821992.

ANNUAL RENTAL-3BR/2BA, pool, canal w/ boat lift home on key Royale. 1700 sq.ft. $8500/mo. Call 941-713-1586

SEASONAL RENTAL in PALMA SOLA. 3BR/2BA weekly or monthly rates. Contact Barb Grace 941201-2190

ANNA MARIA ISLAND

CONDOS Large pool, beach access, free WiFi, 1&2 Bedroom $900 to $1200 per week redekercondosonami.com Tim 941-704-7525

TRANSPORTATION

AMI TAXI credit cards, cash, Venmo accepted. Airport: Tampa $105, Sarasota $50, St. Pete/Clearwater $105, Orlando $220. Call 941-447-8372 or 941-4478376. amitaxi4u@gmail. com, www.amitaxi.com

ANYTIME TRANSPORTA TION to all Airports, Casino, etc. Tampa/St. Pete $80. Sarasota $40. Pets wel come. Very dependable. Reasonable rates. Contact Jeanne. 941-779-5095

AIRPORT RIDES Sarasota, St. Pete, Tampa. Call/Text Vita 941-376-7555.