Anna Maria Island Sun October 17, 2018

- Named Best Florida Newspaper In Its Class -

VOL 19 No. 1

October 17, 2018

JIMMY DAVIS | SUBMITTED

A lone surfer stares into an almost double-overhead storm wave as it barrels toward shore on Anna Maria Island. The huge waves, generated by the powerful Hurricane Michael out in the Gulf of Mexico, were some of the largest to pound AMI in years.

Hurricane Michael could make red tide better – or worse

BY CINDY LANE AND TOM VAUGHT SUN STAFF WRITERS | clane@amisun.com

Hurricane Michael’s violent churning in the Gulf of Mexico last week could break up the red tide bloom that has affected Southwest Florida for the past year, or it could make it worse, scientists say.

The storm made landfall Wednesday, Oct. 10 in the Florida Panhandle, just shy of a Category 5 hurricane. As its tail brushed past Anna Maria Island on Wednesday, it caused minor local flooding, but whipped up Gulf surf, making the red tide airborne.

Until Michael passed by, hurricane storm winds were blowing offshore, pushing most of the water containing red tide farther out into the Gulf, said Dr. Richard Pierce, associate vice president for research and a senior scientist at Mote Marine Laboratory in Sarasota.

However, as the hurricane traveled north past Anna Maria Island, its winds changed direction, bringing the red tide back onshore on west/southwesterly winds, he said.

Scientists are still collecting air and water samples

INSIDE NEWS 4 OPINION 6 OUTDOORS 26 STORM PHOTOS 32 ENTERTAINMENT 33 REAL ESTATE 36-40 SPORTS 42 CLASSIFIEDS 45-48

This year’s local hurricane relief efforts are focused on comfort items rather than food, water and clothing.

BY JOE HENDRICKS SUN CORRESPONDENT | jhendricks@amisun.com

CINDY LANE | SUN

Red tide-laced foam blows across an Anna Maria Island beach last week during Hurricane Michael. from the storm, so it’s too early to reach any conclusions, nor can researchers tell if past hurricanes helped or hindered past red tides, because there has not been enough continuous monitoring, he said.

“But there have been times when a hurricane came and dispersed red tide so it didn’t come back,” he

FIND all things

matrimonial in The Sun’s Wedding Guide. 16

Anna Maria Island, Florida

Hurricane relief drive underway in Cortez

CORTEZ – The Swordfish Grill, the Cortez Bait & Seafood Company and The Blessing Bags Project and the Service Industry Relief Festivities (SIRF) organization are teaming up to provide supplies to Floridian’s impacted by Hurricane Michael.

The relief efforts were to begin at 9 a.m. on Tuesday, Oct. 16, with two semi-trailers stationed in the plaza parking lot near the Cortez Fish Market (12110 Cortez Road) and Cortez Post Office.

The goal is to fill both trailers with donated backpacks filled with donated toys, baby supplies (diapers, baby wipes, etc.), personal hygiene products, first aid supplies, sun screen, bug spray and other comfort items. Cash donations will also be accepted.

SEE RELIEF DRIVE, PAGE 9

SEE RED TIDE, PAGE 41

DOG park lovers express support for revised H.B. City Field plan. 15 TOURISM board unveils renewed

effort to market AMI. 20 The Island’s award-winning weekly newspaper www.amisun.com

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OCTOBER 17, 2018

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OCTOBER 17, 2018

Air sampling for red tide toxins

BY CINDY LANE SUN STAFF WRITER | clane@amisun.com

Mote Marine Laboratory scientists and the Florida Department of Health are now taking air samples 8-10 miles from Sarasota County beaches to measure how far inland Florida red tide toxins travel.

The study will be expanded to surrounding counties, including possibly Manatee County, depending on where red tide is prevalent, Mote Ecotoxicology Program Manager and Senior Scientist Dr. Richard Pierce said.

Previous studies show that the neurotoxin from Florida red tide, called brevetoxin, can travel inland as far as 2.6 miles from the coast. But people have reported experiencing respiratory irritation even further from shore during the current bloom, which the new study will test.

“In this new effort, we will place air sampling instruments in a transect that reaches further inland than previous studies have covered, to see what concentrations of brevetoxins, if any, are traveling the distances at which these effects are being reported,” Pierce said.

Mote scientists are using 12 air sam-

plers, deployed 6-12 hours at a time, that pull air through filters to collect aerosolized toxins for later analysis at the Sarasota lab.

Pierce said a written report will be presented to local health officials when the study is completed to provide improved public information to those sensitive to the toxins, particularly people with chronic respiratory conditions such as asthma.

OTHER RED TIDE RESEARCH

• Researchers at Mote and the University of South Florida College of Marine Science also are using underwater gliders to collect data that can help scientists locate red tide blooms.

• USF researcher Dr. John Paul has developed a red tide Tricorder that tests water samples for the algae. The hand-held device, named for a fictional Star Trek scientific instrument, tests for red tide in the field, saving the time needed to return to the lab and expediting local government decisions on closing beaches and shellfish harvesting beds.

• Mote also is experimenting with clay and ozone to remove Karenia brevis algae from water.

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Red tide had decreased before Michael

BY CINDY LANE SUN STAFF WRITER | clane@amisun.com

Red tide had decreased in waters off Anna Maria Island before Hurricane Michael passed by on Oct. 10, according to the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC).

The Oct. 12 report shows that Manatee County water samples with medium or high levels of red tide decreased from 5 percent to 25 percent from the previous week. Low concentrations of red tide were found in water samples on Oct. 8 at Longboat Pass, with very low concentrations at the Rod & Reel Pier in Anna Maria and background concentrations at Cortez Beach in Bradenton Beach, with none at the Palma Sola Bay bridge.

Background concentrations of red tide cause no anticipated effects. Low levels can cause respiratory irritation, shellfish harvesting closures and possible fish kills. Medium levels can cause respiratory irritation, shellfish harvesting closures and probable fish kills. High levels can cause all of the above, plus water discoloration.

Respiratory irritation was reported on Oct. 4, and from Oct. 6-8 and Oct. 10-11 at Coquina Beach in Bradenton Beach, and Oct. 5-7 and Oct. 10-11 at Manatee Beach in Holmes Beach.

Fish kills also were reported in Manatee County over the past week.

Red tide is a type of algae that emits a neurotoxin when it blooms. Deadly to fish, sea turtles, marine mammals and shorebirds that feed on affected fish, red tide makes shellfish unfit to eat, and can cause respiratory irritation in people, especially those with asthma, COPD or other respiratory diseases.

WILDLIFE AFFECTED BY RED TIDE MANATEES

At least 172 manatees have died during the red tide bloom that has plagued Southwest Florida since October 2017, and which reached Anna Maria Island on Aug. 3.

To date, 67 dead manatees tested positive for red tide, and red tide is suspected in 105 manatee deaths, according to the FWC. SEE RED TIDE, PAGE 10

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ISLAND NEWS

IN BRIEF

Tree house case still unresolved The case of a tree house, a couple with a dream and the city leaders concerned about safety and building over the erosion control line remains unsolved. With the case still awaiting a hearing by a judge in the Manatee County Circuit Court, Holmes Beach Mayor Bob Johnson said no progress has been made either by the owners, Richard Hazen and FILE PHOTO Lynn Tran, to legally keep the The treehouse remains two-story tree house or by the aloft in its beachfront perch city to have it brought down. at the Angelinos Sea Lodge.

The case has been ongoing between the city and the couple, who own the nearby Angelinos Sea Lodge, for more than five years. The owners argue that they received verbal approval from the city’s building department before constructing the tree house, though no building permits were applied for. City leaders argue that the tree house was constructed without permits, crosses the erosion control line and presents a safety hazard to neighbors in the event of a hurricane.

The tree house structure does not meet Florida building codes.

Building Official Jim McGuinness refused to issue after the fact building permits for the structure because it could not be easily brought up to code. For their part, the owners have stated they plan to keep their tree house aloft in its Australian pine perch as long as possible.

Guests at the lodge are not permitted to utilize the tree house.

Join the fun Saturday The first festival of the season, Bayfest, will be on Pine Avenue in Anna Maria on Saturday, Oct. 20, from 10 a.m. to 9 p.m.

Attendance is free and in addition to offering great shopping, live music, regional food and liquid refreshments, there will be a car show and a play area for the kids.

The Anna Maria Island Chamber of Commerce will be collecting money for Island business owners and workers affected by the red tide outbreak and selling tickets for a raffle offering a luxurious Island Experience package.

Come on out to celebrate the Island and upcoming festival season. Parking will be scarce, so plan on taking the trolley or park in the CrossPointe Fellowship lot at 8605 Gulf Drive and take a trolley from there.

For information, call the Chamber at 941-778-1541.

Correction In the Oct. 10 issue of The Sun the pizza donor for National Night Out was incorrectly identified as Isola Bella. The donor was The Island Grill.

Visit our website, www.amisun.com.

Scan this code with your smartphone to go there.

OCTOBER 17, 2018

County Commission candidates address campaign issues

The District 6 at-large County Commission races pits an incumbent commissioner against a firsttime challenger.

that stay on the Island.

BY JOE HENDRICKS

Luther: The single most important issue facing our county right now is the red tide air and water pollution problem.

The sources for this problem have Whitmore still not been addressed, and nothing has been done to correct this problem. I have gone out myself to collect samples of water, sand, sludge and foam to find out what is in the water, so the sources can be properly identified.

We need to stop the sources of the pollution. Our residents’ health is being affected, tourism is being affected, the incomes of our residents are being affected, and the list goes on. Without clean air and water, nothing else really matters. There are many issues I want to address, but this is priority number one.

Whitmore: Searching for a new county administrator; acquiring and pushing the study for a new bridge over Manatee River to relieve traffic congestion; pushing to improve and update our parks; initiating a campaign to build a new animal shelter more centrally located in Manatee County; getting ahead of the infrastructure being built in north county with sidewalks, roads and bridges.

SUN CORRESPONDENT | jhendricks@amisun.com

Anna Maria Island and Cortez voters will help determine the winner of the District 6, at-large County Commission race between incumbent commissioner Carol Whitmore and challenger Candace Luther.

The two candidates recently responded to questions received from The Sun and some of those questions and answers appear below.

WHY DO YOU WANT TO SERVE ON THE COUNTY COMMISSION?

Luther: I don’t feel the citizens of Manatee County are being properly represented. Too often those making the decisions go against the wishes of the people in favor of the special interests. I want to be the voice for the people of Manatee County.

Too often county staff does not do due diligence in reviewing proposals before coming before the commissioners. I have seen errors in the past and it is time to stop this. I will do the research myself. I will not just rubber stamp whatever comes forward, and staff needs to do better.

Whitmore: There are many issues that will mold the future of the county and the islands and we need someone on the commission who knows Anna Maria Island. Before I became a county commissioner, I served as the Holmes Beach mayor for eight and a half years. I know how to work with other governments and agencies to get Manatee County its fair share of federal and state funds.

I pushed for the Island Trolley and for free transit for all county citizens over 80 years old. I worked with all three Island mayors to help them acquire beach concession funds

WHAT DO YOU SEE AS THE MOST IMPORTANT ISSUES FACING THE COUNTY? Luther

HOW WOULD YOU ASSESS THE COUNTY’S RED TIDE RESPONSE?

Luther: I think it has been a pathetic attempt at a cover-up with no solutions. Their response to the red tide was to dump the toxic biohazardous waste into the landfill. All this did was spread the toxins to the eastern part of the county too. It seems all anyone cared about was removing the carcasses from the beach to make it look as though everything was fine. I would like to know

where are the water tests showing what toxins and bacteria are present? Where are the air quality tests?

Whitmore: As a 49-year resident on Anna Maria Island, I have been through many red tides. I was on the first board of START when they formed after a terrible red tide in the 90s. The county is still assessing the beaches every day, cleaning when needed and reporting the status of the beaches. I recently received a call from someone wanting help in their canals and I referred them to Cortez fisherman Nathan Meschelle.

WHAT ARE YOUR THOUGHTS ON THE RECENT COUNTY COMMISSION APPROVALS OF THE AQUA BY THE BAY, LAKE FLORES, PENINSULA BAY AND HUNTERS POINT DEVELOPMENT PROJECTS?

Luther: Aqua by the Bay is a disaster in the making. I don’t know how it got approval without a complete site plan or even knowing how many buildings are to be built. This monstrosity does not fit the atmosphere of the fishing village around it. All this development is going to create an even bigger traffic problem and create more stormwater runoff due to there being less permeable land. Once again, approvals were given despite the public outcry for denial.

Whitmore: Aqua was a tough one, mainly because most people don’t understand what they wanted and what they got. They wanted to destroy the shoreline and The Kitchen. They got the number of units they have had the right to build since 1989, and they are allowed the same height as IMG. Lake Flores is being built by the Preston family, who have owned the property for over 100 years. This project was supported by many environmental groups.

Peninsula Bay, also a Whiting Preston project, allows them to develop land they have had the rights to since 1989, with no cutting of mangroves. Hunters Point is my favorite, with zero carbon footprint and tiny houses.

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OCTOBER 17, 2018

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Commission candidates address city issues The city elections will conclude on Tuesday, Nov. 6.

BY JOE HENDRICKS SUN CORRESPONDENT | jhendricks@amisun.com

BRADENTON BEACH – The campaign signs are out, and mail voting has begun in the city elections that will soon determine the winners of two City Commission seats.

The four-candidate field includes incumbent commissioners Ralph Cole and Marilyn Maro and challengers Tjet Martin and John Metz. The winners will serve two-year terms and join John Chappie, Jake Spooner and Randy White on the commission. All five commission members also serve on the seven-member Community Redevelopment Agency (CRA).

This is the third and final story in which the candidates answered campaign questions posed by The Sun.

Cole

Maro

WHAT CAN BE DONE TO CREATE MORE PARKING FOR THE BRIDGE STREET BUSINESS DISTRICT?

Cole: We’ve had a discussion with Elliott Falcione and we have directed the city engineer to work with him to come up with a solution for shuttles and pathways that lead to Bridge Street. We have 1,800 parking spaces at Cortez Beach and Coquina Beach that can be utilized.

Maro: We’re working on a shuttle and parking project for Cortez Beach. The mayor is working on after-hours parking at the post office and when we get the floating dock in, we can use water taxis.

Martin: I don’t think there should be more parking around Bridge Street. I wish

Martin

Metz

Bridge Street was closed and a park-like setting created.

Work on the proposed Cortez Beach plan I brought forth a year ago. Get a park and ride implemented.

Metz: Revise the LDC and city resolutions whereby the merchants have been able to avoid building adequate parking for the number of patrons in restaurants and bars.

WHAT WOULD YOU LIKE TO SEE DONE WITH THE PLANTERS ON BRIDGE STREET?

Cole: That was done before I joined the commission.

Unfortunately, we wound up with barren planters that are cracking. The Bridge Street merchants wouldn’t miss those planters if they were gone, and

we might have the opportunity to put trees back in after we underground the power lines.”

Maro: That’s going to be addressed by Emily Anne Smith and her vision plan for the CRA. Martin: I would like to see framed photos of the old Bridge Street on some of them, similar to the ones at the minigolf course. I would also like to see what Emily Anne Smith has to offer.

Metz: Listen to and study Emily Anne Smith’s forthcoming recommendations.

Maro: It’s in Tampa now.

There’s still permitting that needs to be done, which they (Technomarine) should have done; and there are questions about how many pilings are needed.

Martin: “There should have been a better contract. There were no teeth put in the contract, and it should have been canceled in January and the process started over.

Metz: It is an example of the need for a trained, experienced city manager to run projects.

WHAT ARE YOUR THOUGHTS ON THE DELAYS WITH THE REPLACEMENT OF THE FLOATING DAY DOCK NEXT TO THE BRIDGE STREET PIER?

ARE THERE ANY OTHER CITY ISSUES YOU WOULD LIKE TO ADDRESS?

Cole: It’s unfortunate that it’s been delayed this long.

Hopefully it’s coming to a head. It’s in Tampa if we have to go get it. I don’t know what caused their failure, but this happens and you have to deal with it.

Cole: I have no hidden agenda. I’m not anybody’s puppet. I want to do things that make our city better. I’m a true resident, property owner, business owner and taxpayer.

I try to do what I think is best for everybody.

SEE BB COMMISSION, PAGE 31

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OPINION

The Anna Maria Island Sun newspaper Island Sun Plaza, 9801 Gulf Drive P.O. Box 1189 Anna Maria, FL 34216-1189 Phone: (941) 778-3986 e-mail: news@amisun.com | ads@amisun.com | classifieds@amisun.com

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OCTOBER 17, 2018

EDITORIAL Red tide's cost is more than money

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e ought to start pounding on the table!"

With those words, local restaurateur and Tourist Development Council member Ed Chiles expressed his outlook and his frustration at the grim impact red tide has had on Anna Maria Island and Manatee County.

Chiles, who owns three barrier island restaurants, including two on AMI, spoke at Monday's TDC meeting in Bradenton, at which some sobering numbers were released on red tide's effect on the local economy. The figures were provided by the county's tourism consultant, Walter Klages, of Research Data Services.

Consider this data: • The number of visitors dropped from 48,700 in August 2017 to 42,000 this August, the month when this outbreak of red tide first hit Manatee County.

• Room nights decreased by 9.3 percent.

• Economic impact dropped 11.4 percent and occupancy dropped 13.7 percent.

• The number of Floridians visiting the area was down nearly 23 percent in August.

Numbers for September have not yet been released, but there's little doubt they will mirror the August figures or perhaps be even worse.

To combat this economic gut punch, the TDC announced an impressive new marketing program designed to bring visitors back to the area. The multi-faceted effort is being rolled out over the winter season and, if past TDC efforts are any indication, likely will be successful in convincing tourists around the globe that AMI and Longboat Key are as fine a place to vacation as anyplace on Earth.

But there's more to a red tide "cure" than once again filling up local coffers with tourist dollars. The environmental devastation caused by these algae blooms is equally as significant. Dead marine life washing ashore by the thousands of tons is not just a marketing nightmare - it's a dark reminder that more science is needed on how to stem the pollution that fuels the naturally occurring red tide algae and results in these deadly, massive blooms.

Controlling farm runoff and leaking septic systems while improving sewage treatment are just a few of the critical environmental issues that need addressing, Chiles said Monday.

And he should know. More than 20 years ago Chiles helped found START - Solutions To Avoid Red Tide - following a red tide outbreak that lasted more than 13 months. The group has been an advocate for sensible, sound environmental research and regulation ever since.

But it's been 20 years and here we are again.

It's time to start pounding on the table.

LETTERS TO THE EDITOR

Professional support needed The 1950s ended 60 years ago. Holmes Beach government is now a sizable operation with 49 full-time employees and a $$15.9 million budget for 2018-9 (up 3 employees and $$2.5 million in one year.) And, we are facing lost tax revenue if Florida voters approve another $25K in homestead exemptions. We need professional management to efficiently run city government, support our elected officials, and meet the needs of our residents and businesses. A professional manager typically has a Masters degree in public administration / policy, several years of work experience in city government, and relationships with other cities to research common issues and shared solutions. Efficiencies typically cover their cost.

Allowing weekly rentals in residential areas created many problems due to a poor understanding of potential issues and a failure to enact regulations in advance. After a long struggle by recent Commissions to implement controls, we have lost many residents, have grandfathered mega-rentals, and face $25M++ in Bert Harris claims. There is no guarantee that a professional manager will provide the best guidance or the Commission accept it, but together there is a far higher probability of making the best decisions.

The manager would implement Commission priorities and ordinances. We need profes-

sional support with much fewer citizen volunteers to run – ideally two reasonably qualified candidates for each open position so voters can make the best choices. We’re not there.

Please support those Charter Review candidates who are open to the need for professional management. Other important items such as term limits and term lengths to ensure stability AND bring fresh ideas also need to be considered. Thanks to these dedicated volunteers who have and will devote the substantial time and effort to bring well-researched recommendations to you for your decision.

David Cheshire Holmes Beach

Your thoughts?

Got an opinion, a complaint or a compliment?

Is there something you need to get off your chest?

Send us a letter to the editor and have your say.

There are several ways to doit. Visit our website at www.amisun.com and click on the “contact us” link at the top of the home page. Or, e-mail The Sun directly at news@amisun.com. You can mail a letter to us at The Anna Maria Island Sun, Island Sun Plaza, P.O. Box 1189, Anna Maria, FL 34216.

Letters should be kept to 300 words or less and must contain your name and the city in which you reside. Personal attacks and obscene language will not be printed. Letters also may be edited for length and content.

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OCTOBER 17, 2018

THE SUN

Ship shape shopping in Cortez The 21st Annual Cortez Nautical Flea Market will be held on Saturday, Oct. 20, from 8 a.m. to 1 p.m. at the Florida Maritime Museum with a rain date of Oct. 27.

Boat lovers can shop for anything nautical from fishing supplies to boat and motor parts and home decoration.

There will be live music by The Treble Hooks Dock 'n' Reel from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m., and food and drinks will be available for purchase.

This event is free to the public and is primarily located on the grounds of the Florida Maritime Museum. Parking will be available at the F.I.S.H. Preserve located after 115th Street West going west.

The preserve will be on the left.

The flea market sponsors are The Anna Maria Island Sun,

ON THE AGENDA ANNA MARIA

10005 Gulf Drive For information, call 7086130

BRADENTON BEACH

107 Gulf Drive N. For information, call 7781005 Oct. 17, 1 p.m. – Planning and Zoning Board meeting Oct. 18, 10 a.m. – Special CRA meeting Oct. 18, noon – City Commission meeting

FILE PHOTO

The Nautical Flea Market will have something for just about everyone this Saturday in Cortez.

Southwinds Magazine, Bonefish Grill, Snead Island Boat Works Inc., Mackey Law Group PA and

our partners Florida Institute for Saltwater Heritage and the Cortez Village Cultural Center.

NOTE: EVENTS ARE FREE UNLESS INDICATED.

WEDNESDAY OCT. 17

Kayaking on the Ohio River, Island Branch Library, 5701 Marina Drive, Holmes Beach, 1 p.m.

TIFF – To Inform Families First, Island Branch Library, 5701 Marina Drive, Holmes Beach, 4 p.m.

THURSDAY

BY TAL REEVE

OCT. 18

SUN CORRESPONDENT | treeve@amisun.com

FILE PHOTO

The Manatee High Marching Band will be among those in the Old Soldiers & Sailors Parade Nov. 12 in Anna Maria. most importantly, marching veterans.

The Anna Maria Island Historical Society also will host an ice cream social at their museum at 402 Pine Ave. City officials said the event was a huge success last year. They’re making sure to have plenty of ice

cream for everyone.

Parties interested in participating in the parade can find applications on the city’s website at www.cityofannamaria.com. The deadline to apply is Nov. 5.

AME Fall Festival moves north There will be a haunted house at the PTO fund-raiser.

BY TOM VAUGHT SUN STAFF WRITER | tvaught@amisun.com

The Anna Maria Elementary School PTO’s Fall Festival moves to the city of Anna Maria on Saturday, Oct. 27, at The Center, 407 Magnolia Ave. PTO President Nicole Teich said the Center was very generous in offering the facility.

HOLMES BEACH

5801 Marina Drive For information, call 7085800 Oct. 23, 6 p.m. – City Commission meeting with work session to follow.

ISLAND-WIDE

Oct. 22, 2 p.m. – Island Transportation Planning Organization meeting, Anna Maria City Hall.

MARK YOUR CALENDAR

Anna Maria set to honor old Soldiers, Sailors Anna Maria is gearing up to honor the community’s veterans Nov. 12 with its second annual Old Soldiers & Sailors Parade.

The city is planning to hold an afternoon parade beginning promptly at 1 p.m. starting at Anna Maria City Hall, 10005 Gulf Drive, and ending at Anna Maria City Pier Park at the intersection of Pine Avenue and North Bay Boulevard.

The parade will feature marching bands from Manatee High School, Southeast High School and Lakewood Ranch High School, a flyover by the United States Coast Guard, the swashbuckling Anna Maria Island Privateers, representation from local businesses and organizations and,

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“This year, we’re going to have a haunted house,” she said.

The haunted house proved too labor intensive in the past, and access to the auditorium was limited at times.

Teich said kids and parents will assemble at Anna Maria City Pier Park at 9 a.m. The kids will wear their costumes, and there will be a winning boy and girl for each class. Winners will receive ice cream treats from Small Town Creamery. The kids will parade from City Pier Park to The Center

where the fun begins, The event goes from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m., and there will be games with prizes, a bounce house or two, live music, hot dogs, cotton candy and frozen treats. Teich said they are working on a slider contest.

As planning continues, Teich said they are trying to make it as fun as they can. For questions and donations, call the school at 941708-5525 and leave a message for Nicole Teich.

Veteran services information, Island Branch Library, 5701 Marina Drive, Holmes Beach, 9 a.m.

Roser-Robics chair-based exercise class, Roser Church, 512 Pine Ave., Anna Maria, 9:30 a.m.

Book Club, "America’s First Daughter," Island Branch Library, 5701 Marina Drive, Holmes Beach, 10:15 a.m.

Zumba and mat pilates for seniors, The Paradise Center, 567 Bay Isles Rd., Longboat Key,10 a.m., $10 per class.

Reserve to maryannbrady@ theparadisecenter.org or 941-383-6493.

Learn to knit and crochet, Island Branch Library, 5701 Marina Drive, Holmes Beach, 1 p.m.

Sunshine Stitchers knit and crochet, Island Branch Library, 5701 Marina Drive, Holmes Beach, 2 p.m.

Jam in the Sand, Anna Maria Island Beach Café, 4000 Gulf Drive, Holmes Beach, 5 to 8 p.m.

FRIDAY OCT. 19

Fridays at Paradise Café, The Paradise Center, 567 Bay Isles Rd., Longboat Key, 10:30 a.m., $10. Reserve to maryannbrady@theparadisecenter.org or 941-383-6493.

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

Sunset drum circle, Manatee Public Beach, 4000 Gulf Drive, Holmes Beach, 7 to 8:30 p.m.

SATURDAY OCT. 20

18th Annual Bayfest, Pine Avenue, Anna Maria, 10 a.m. to 9 p.m.

MONDAY OCT. 22

Social bridge games, Roser Church, 512 Pine Ave., Anna Maria, noon.

Mindset, 3-part series, The Paradise Center, 567 Bay Isles Rd., Longboat Key, 1 p.m., $30 for the series.

Reserve to maryannbrady@ theparadisecenter.org or 941-383-6493.

TUESDAY OCT. 23

Farmer’s Market, City Pier Park, 100 Bay Dr. N., Anna Maria, 8:30 a.m.-2 p.m.

Roser-Robics chair-based exercise class, Roser Church, 512 Pine Ave., Anna Maria, 9:30 a.m.

Preschool storytime, Island Branch Library, 5701 Marina Drive, Holmes Beach, 10 a.m.

Salt Scrub, The Folk School at Florida Maritime Museum, 4415 119th St. W., Cortez, 10 a.m., $38.

Yoga for Seniors, The Paradise Center, 567 Bay Isles Rd., Longboat Key, 10 a.m., $10. Reserve to maryannbrady@theparadisecenter. org or 941-383-6493.

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

SEE CALENDAR, PAGE 34

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OCTOBER 17, 2018

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WITH TWO SIDES! UNTIL SUPPLIES LAST

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

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OCTOBER 17, 2018

RELIEF: Drive underway FROM PAGE 1

As he did last year after Hurricane Harvey hit Texas, Swordfish Grill General Manager Bob Slicker is helping spearhead the local relief efforts.

“I was sitting there this morning sitting by myself, watching the news and crying, and I thought I needed to do something,” Slicker said Monday morning.

Applying lessons learned last year, Slicker said the focus this year is on comfort items that are easier to stage, transport and distribute than the bulkier food, water and clothing that were among the many items collected last year.

The Bradenton/Sarasota-based Blessing Bags Project has a great deal of experience collecting, filling and distributing backpacks to those in need locally, and one Monday afternoon Director Betsy Plante told Slicker 300 backpacks had already been donated to the hurricane relief efforts, but more are needed.

The donated backpacks and supplies will be delivered to Port Saint Joe High School in Port St. Joe, where resident Jay Rish is helping to coordinate the distribution efforts. Rish is a friend of Robert DeMino, territory manager for U.S. Foods, the company that supplies the Swordfish Grill and several other local restaurants.

DeMino said Rish is a third-generation Port St. Joe resident and a prominent realtor and developer in the area. Port St. Joe is approximately 12 miles southeast of Mexico Beach, one of the areas hard-

THE SUN

Hurricane relief donations

est hit by Hurricane Michael.

According to Slicker, Rish said there’s already plenty of food and water making its way to the area and the comfort items will be greatly appreciated.

“What we are collecting are the best possible things for now,” Slicker said.

Slicker expects it will take at least a couple days, maybe a week, to fill the trailers provided by Cortez businessman John Banyas.

“We’ll do it as long as we need to,” Slicker said.

“If you would like to make a cash donation we will have our good friend Simon Lord purchase supplies for us and get those supplies up there also,” Slicker added.

Financial donations will be processed through the recently created, SIRFaffiliated, 501(c)(3), non-profit Florida Restaurant Employee Red Tide Relief Fund. The fund was established to provide relief to Cortez and Anna Maria Island restaurant employees and others impacted in future years by red tide outbreaks, hurricanes and the annual slow season.

On Monday afternoon, SIRF set up a wish list at Amazon.com that allows folks to order relief supplies to be delivered to the Swordfish Grill and then loaded onto a trailer headed for Port St. Joe. Visit SIRF online at www.joinsirf. com.

Slicker said the relief efforts will continue during the 7th Annual Cortez Stone Crab & Music Festival on Satur-

The Manatee County Sheriff’s Office, through Anna Maria City Hall, is collecting items to send to the areas hit by Hurricane Michael last week. The hallway at city hall was already full of items donated

by Anna Maria Island Turtle Watch volunteers 0n Monday. The collection period ends Sunday, Oct. 21 and, city hall is open 8 a.m. through 4 p.m.

New items being collected include toilet paper, paper towels, shampoo, conditioner, hair brushes/ combs, hair ties, deodorant, tooth brushes, toothpaste, Chapstick, soap/ body wash, body lotion, first-aid kits and items, razors, shaving cream, feminine products, sanitary wipes/gel, sunscreen, insect repellant, laundry soap, cleaning supplies, towels, sheets, blankets, sleeping bags, flip flops,

TOM VAUGHT | SUN

These relief supplies in Anna Maria City Hall were donated

by Anna Maria Island Turtle Watch volunteers. water shoes, work gloves, shovels, rakes, saws, empty gas cans, flashlights, batteries, tarps, ropes, box fans, extension cords, paper plates, plastic silverware and cups, mops and brooms and Ziploc bags and trash bags, pet food and supplies and baby products such as diapers, formula and bottles, wipes, baby food (no glass,

day, Nov. 10 and Sunday, Nov. 11.

“It’s almost November and the holidays are approaching. Some of those families will not be able to buy toys for their children. Toys probably aren’t on anyone’s priority list, but that’s going to

please) baby wash and shampoo. Donate canned food only.

Cash is not acceptable; money can be donated to the Red Cross.

HOLMES BEACH POLICE ALSO INVOLVED

The Holmes Beach Police Department is

SEE RELIEF ON PAGE 40

be part of our focus working with The Blessing Bags Project,” Slicker said. “If you come to the stone crab festival bring a toy to get in. We will make the festival a hurricane relief toy drive.”

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OCTOBER 17, 2018

AMI northern shore lost, gained says AM mayor

RED TIDE: Decreased before Michael

BY TAL REEVE FROM PAGE 3

SUN CORRESPONDENT | treeve@amisun.com

ANNA MARIA – Mayor Dan Murphy said Oct. 11 he thinks the city's north shore lost 30-35 percent of its white sands, but, he added, Bean Point has grown.

Murphy and Manatee County Sheriff’s Office Sergeant Mike Jones toured the city’s beaches after the high waters caused by Hurricane Michael receded. Murphy’s opinion of the state of the beach is based on opinion and visual inspection, not on a formal study.

“We got really lucky,” Murphy said, adding the sea oats planted along the coastline helped keep the sand on shore. “That’s what they’re there for.”

Anna Maria’s beaches also were spared from major erosion during Hurricane Irma in 2017. According to a coastal impact report published by the Florida Department of Environmental Protection, the beaches of Anna Maria were listed as only suffering “minor damage” due to the storm losing a lot of its momentum after making landfall.

Murphy said there’s no plan to replace the eroded sand at this time.

Nine manatee deaths have been recorded in Manatee County so far this year, three in Anna Maria Sound; none are confirmed from red tide.

So far this year, 676 manatees have died in state waters, compared to 538 in all of 2017.

SEA TURTLES

Since the red tide began locally in August, the Mote Marine Laboratory Stranding Investigations Program, serving Sarasota County and part of Manatee County, has taken in 216 sea turtles, only 14 of which were alive, with many of the deaths due to red tide exposure. Anna Maria Island Turtle Watch and Shorebird Monitoring has recorded 36 sea turtle strandings.

DOLPHINS

Mote has recorded 21 deceased bottlenose dolphins, 10 from red tide exposure. In all, 66 dolphins have stranded during the red tide as of Oct. 11, according to NOAA. No new strandings have been reported since Sept. 27.

TAL REEVE | SUN

Above, Melissa Rodriguez, from Cape Coral, Fla., frolics through a small colony of seagulls at Bean Point on the northwestern tip of Anna Maria. Rodriguez and her husband, Noel, were visiting AMI for the weekend. Right, families returned to the beach to enjoy the sun and the big surf.

BIRDS

Wildlife Education and Rehabilitation Inc. in Bradenton Beach has taken in between 60-70 birds sick from eating fish contaminated with red tide, mostly cormorants and laughing gulls.

MIKE FIELD | SUN

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OCTOBER 17, 2018

THE SUN

11

King Tides contribute to localized flooding Street flooding remains a reoccurring issue in some Bradenton Beach neighborhoods.

BY JOE HENDRICKS

SUN CORRESPONDENT | jhendricks@amisun.com

The combination of possible King Tides and Hurricane Michael’s presence in the Gulf of Mexico produced some localized flooding and standing water in Bradenton Beach and Anna Maria last week.

“A King Tide is a non-scientific term people often use to describe exceptionally high tides. Higher than normal tides typically occur during a new or full moon and when the moon is at its perigee or during specific seasons around the country,” according to the NOAA National Ocean Service website.

In Bradenton Beach, the street flooding began early Tuesday afternoon, on Oct. 9.

On the north side of the city, rising water covered portions of Avenue A and Avenue B and portions of 24th, 25th and 26th streets north. Localized flooding also was seen on the south end of town at and near the Bradenton Beach Marina on Tuesday afternoon.

At mid-day Wednesday, the bay water was as high as the docks near the Bridge Tender Inn on Bay Drive South.

In Anna Maria, a portion of Spring Avenue was covered with water Tuesday afternoon. At mid-day Wednesday, North Shore Drive, between the Rod & Reel Pier and Jacaranda Road, was partially flooded and at least one driveway was underwater.

A HOMEOWNER’S PERSPECTIVE

On Tuesday morning, part-time Bradenton Beach resident Marc Sillars attended a City Commission work meeting regarding future stormwater and drainage proj-

CHANTELLE LEWIN | SUN

This section of Spring Avenue in Anna Maria was flooded on Tuesday, Oct. 9.

JOE HENDRICKS | SUN

ects along Avenue C and Avenue B. When Sillars got home shortly after noon, he and his wife Betsy watched the bay water rise toward their ground-level home near 24th Street North and Avenue A. “The worst flooding was Tuesday night and early Wednesday morning. Tuesday night we had maybe an inch of water seeping into the front porch. Wednesday afternoon wasn’t as bad as Tuesday,” Sillars said of the twice-daily tide cycles.

“I block off the doors with boards and I seal them. If the tide doesn’t stay too high for too long, I have floor-mounted pumps that can pump it out. It’s like bailing out a boat with a hole in it – as long as you can bail faster than the water’s coming in you’re OK,” he explained.

Sillars said some of his neighbors also had water seeping into their ground-level, enclosed porches.

“We move all the furniture, the water doesn’t stay long and we clean it with bleach,” he said.

In anticipation of the King Tide and the

26th Street North in Bradenton Beach was flooded last Tuesday afternoon. passing offshore hurricane, Public Works Director Tom Woodard had signs set out that said, “Road Under Water” or “Street Flooding Drive Slow” placed in areas prone to flooding.

Sillars said the signs don’t stop some drivers from passing by at a speed that creates a wake that pushes water toward their house.

“People drive past the signs. You have to tell them to slow down so they don’t make a wake,” Sillars said.

Later in the week, Woodard ordered additional signs that reference salt water being driven through and the need to avoid creating a wake.

King Tide flooding occurred near the Sillars’ Florida home around this time last year too – and Sillars believes the design of the streets and drainage system contributes to the flooding that occurs during very high tides and/or heavy rains.

“For the system in front of my house, they purposely changed the pitch of the

road to hold the water in front of the swales, so the water can stay there and drain into the swales later. We have the flooded street because they designed it that way, which is my basis for saying they’ve done something to permanently damage my property,” Sillars said.

“We have to elevate our house. I’m already drawing plans up. There’s not a choice if we want to live here as full-time residents, which we do. All our valuable stuff is in Chicago still. There’s no way I would bring stuff down here that we could lose to flooding,” Sillars said.

Holmes Beach City Commissioner Judy Titsworth said she wasn’t aware of any significant impacts created by the King Tide in Holmes Beach.

“We had water in the spots where we expected it, but nothing too bad. We don’t have all our WaStop valves installed yet and that should help once we do.”

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THE SUN

13

TAL REEVE | SUN

Seagulls sit on pylons installed to protect the beach along Tampa Bay where the Anna Maria City Pier used to sit.

Anna Maria City Pier proposals still awaiting approval

BY TAL REEVE | treeve@amisun.com SUN CORRESPONDENT

ANNA MARIA – The city's plans to rebuild it’s famous city pier are still being kept confidential.

Mayor Dan Murphy said Oct. 11 he sent requests for more information to the five Florida-based construction companies that applied to the city Oct. 3 with plans to rebuild the pier.

Murphy told the City Commision that he gave the five companies a deadline of Oct. 12 to return with clarification on several questions. Murphy wouldn’t go into detail about what issues needed answers.

Once the answers were received, Murphy said he will release the proposals to the commission for review and

possible selection.

The mayor said until then the contents of the packages had to be kept confidential.

The five companies that submitted applications were Cone & Graham, Inc., from Port Saint Lucie; GLF Construction Corporation, from Miami; Speeler & Associates, Inc., from Largo; and i+iconUSA and American Bridge, both from Tampa.

City officials have budgeted approximately $2.5 million for the reconstruction. Murphy also has submitted applications to Florida and federal departments for funding, but the mayor has said they’re still waiting for answers.

A meeting date for the RFP decisions hasn’t been scheduled as of publication.

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THE SUN

OCTOBER 17, 2018

Anna Maria landscaping plans on hold

BY TAL REEVE | treeve@amisun.com SUN CORRESPONDENT

ANNA MARIA – The second, final reading of the city's landscaping ordinance was put on hold Oct. 11 after a brief public comment stopped city commissioners short.

A question about exactly constitutes landscapable property from Anna Maria resident Sam Pakbaz caused the commissioners to question the wording in the proposed ordinance.

Pakbaz inquired how the ordinance, which is written to create a landscaping standard across the city for all new construction, would affect property along the city’s beaches. Coastline lots can lie across protected beaches and sometimes into the waterline where land development isn’t allowed.

Protected features such as dunes, sea oats, public beach access points and other natural and manmade erosion control features can lie in a person’s property but can not be disturbed or developed.

The question about how best to clearly regulate how a property owner should landscape his/her lot while protecting the shoreline controls left commissioners without a clear answer.

As it’s currently written, the landscape ordinance requires all new residential construction to landscape a minimum of 10 percent of the lot with Florida-friendly vegetation, include five Florida-friendly trees, at least one of which is encouraged be a large tree, and of the five, it should be a minimum three varieties, including to nine shrubs along the property.

It’s possible for coastline properties,

TAL REEVE | SUN

A family visiting from Europe walks in front of a house under construction on 811 North Shore Dr. while on their way to Bean Point. The home is being built on a lot which extends to the Anna Maria coastline. to put the ordinance on hold Oct. 11, Crane’s letter detailed concerns such as after a residence is built, driveways the Anna Maria Planning & Zoning inconsistent wording, such the difference beconstructed and protected land acBoard met Oct. 9 to discuss it as well. tween Florida-friendly in the new ordinance counted for, to have less than 10 perThe members weren’t happy with the and non-invasive in the city’s comprehensive cent available to be landscaped.

Commissioners unanimously decided to city’s proposed landscaping regulations. plan, enforcement issues and if it’s feasible have City Attorney Becky Vose find the corBoard members unanimously agreed to have several canopy trees on a typical 50 rect, clear legal term for the area property to recommend the city’s ordinance be by 100-foot lot. owners are allowed to landscape when a stopped before it could take root.

Commissioners thanked the P&Z but lot runs through the coastline and has less In a letter to the commissioners, P&Z said they were confident the concerns were than the regulated percentage available for Chair Jonathan Crane wrote the board clarified in the ordinance or were enforced greenery. A date hasn’t been set for the applauded the city’s efforts make sure in other ordinances, but voting was halted by second reading. greenery flourished throughout the city the coastal question presented by Pakbaz. but “we also determined that the curCrane’s full letter detailing the P&Z’s P&Z DISAPPROVAL rent proposed ordinance has a number opinion can be read at City Hall, 10005 Before the city commission decided of fatal flaws.”

Gulf Dr.

www.amisun.com

OCTOBER 17, 2018

THE SUN

15

New plans emerge for city field Now that commissioners have made changes to the redesign plans for city field, it’s up to City Engineer Lynn Burnett to see if those changes can become reality.

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

HOLMES BEACH – Though commissioners didn’t approve City Engineer Lynn Burnett’s entire layout for the city field complex, they did combine her plan and theirs to create a layout that could work for everyone.

During an Oct. 9 work session, Burnett provided commissioners with an updated concept plan for the remodel of the city field complex, located adjacent to city hall. In her plan, she moved the baseball field slightly to the southeast, making the field a multiuse area rather than a designated ball field.

Where third base and part of the outfield are now, she suggested installing a new concrete skate park, demolishing the old one and using that area to relocate the construction staging area currently taking up part of the parking

lot near the basketball courts and dog park.

She recommended moving the city’s shuffleboard courts to the current home plate area, adding a bocce court and horseshoe pits along the first base area and pushing the large dog park north into the current staging area. She also suggested relocating the tot lot park from Marina Drive to next to the existing gazebo on Flotilla Drive and creating a parking and focal point entry area long Marina Drive. Eventually, she said the whole complex could be surrounded by a multi-use track with exercise stations.

Over a two-year period, including the current fiscal year, she projects the project will cost an estimated $300,000 to complete.

While commissioners were in favor of some items, such as relocating the staging area and the tot lot, the two big items, the dog park and the skate park, caused some concern.

Commissioner Judy Titsworth got the ball rolling on a compromise, one that dog park users in attendance at the work session approved of, when she suggested using the third base and outfield area for the large dog park,

KRISTIN SWAIN | SUN

Clockwise from above, the city’s current skate park is planned to be removed and the area utilized as a staging area for public works employees and city construction contractors. Refinishing the shade structures in the city’s dog park is one of the temporary improvements planned for the current dog parks before city field goes under construction.

It may serve as the stretch from home plate to third base and the outfield now, but commissioners propose that this area be renovated to accommodate the large dog park. allowing for a large dog run.

Titsworth said the placement would put the dogs further away from residential neighbors and allow the small dog park, which is expected to remain in its current location, to share a fence with the large dog park, allowing users

to speak with each other and dogs to chase each other along the fence. She said the main two things for Burnett to consider with the relocation of the dog park is that the park should not be any SEE CITY FIELD, PAGE 31

16

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THE SUN

The Sandbar wedding and event pavilion creates memories that last a lifetime

tubs & HBO. Pristine private beach with complimentary

The Sandbar wedding and event pavilion didn’t set the standard for beach weddings, it perfected it. Adjacent to the historic Sandbar restaurant is the site of the Sandbar pavilion. Weddings and events at the Sandbar pavilion are recognized worldwide as award winning and unique.

With breathtaking sunsets, exceptional customer service and outstanding food, the Sandbar venue has, for decades, attracted couples celebrating their special day. For multiple years, couples of The Knot have voted the Sandbar venue top ceremony and wedding site. Readers of weddingwire. com have given the Sandbar the Brides Choice Award continuously.

Designated as one of the top venues for destination weddings and special events on the west coast of Florida, the Sandbar pavilion is a stand-alone, open-air pavilion steps from the Gulf of Mexico that can comfortably seat 150 plus guests under the pavilion with additional seating along its perimeter. Innovative menus offer a wide variety of locally sourced and sustainable seafood dishes, land fare and fresh produce grown at the restaurant’s own farm. The Sandbar’s expert culinary team is happy to customize a menu unique to any style or size event. Sandbar wedding coordinator, Molly Powers will be with you throughout the planning and event stages.

For information on hosting a special event at the Sandbar Pavilion, contact Powers, 941-778-8709, mpowers@chilesgroup.com. Follow them on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram and Pinterest. Search reviews on The Knot and Weddingwire or see photos on their website www.islanddining.com.

OCTOBER 17, 2018

www.amisun.com

OCTOBER 17, 2018

THE SUN

DARA CAUDILL | WWW.ISLANDPHOTOGRAPHY.ORG

DARA CAUDILL | WWW.ISLANDPHOTOGRAPHY.ORG

Anna Maria Island holds a special place in the hearts of the Donahue family. They have visited the Island annually for more than 30 years. Laurie and Pete Donahue with their children Peter, Caitlin, Meghan and Colleen. Laurie and Pete just celebrated their 33rd wedding anniversary.

Kyle Weller made a surprise wedding proposal to Caitlin Anne Donahue during a walk on their favorite beach on Anna Maria Island on May 21, 2017. Family and friends from Illinois and England surprised the newly engaged couple with a celebration at the Sandbar restaurant, coordinated by Sandbar manager Arty Cholminski and Meghan Donahue. Kyle and Caitlin will be married Oct. 27, 2018, on Anna Maria Island surrounded by family and friends.

Peter Donahue surprised girlfriend Jackie Concialdi, with a proposal of marriage on the beach of the Sandbar restaurant on May 26, 2016. Jackie and Peter’s families traveled from Illinois to AMI to be present for the surprise proposal. Everyone celebrated with an excellent dinner on the deck of the Sandbar restaurant, coordinated by Arty Cholminski of the Sandbar. Peter and Jackie will be celebrating their first wedding anniversary on Nov. 7, 2018.

17

18

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THE SUN

OCTOBER 17, 2018

I AM ASKING FOR YOUR VOTE! As your commissioner, with your help, I will:

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Listen to the concerns of Holmes Beach residents. I will be the residents’ voice on the Commission.

Reduce unnecessary spending and lower taxes by controlling the budget and millage rate.

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Work with Code Enforcement to ensure the enforcement of our Holmes Beach codes so that we, the residents, can PEACEFULLY enjoy our homes.

Collaborate with city officials to solve traffic and parking issues.

Advocate and lobby the county for the tourist development tax dollars needed to assist in managing the daily/weekly impacts of a growing tourist trade.

Collaborate with the building department to implement a “fast track” permit process for residents making minor home updates.

www.amisun.com

OCTOBER 17, 2018

THE SUN

19

Bike moratorium moves to public hearing Changes to the proposed Holmes Beach bicycle and scooter sharing service moratorium mean that the ordinance must pass two commission votes at public hearings before it’s enacted.

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

HOLMES BEACH – Commissioners may have to wait until November to have their first vote on a pending moratorium banning the installation of docked and dockless bicycle and scooter sharing services.

The ordinance was on the agenda for approval at the Oct. 9 regular meeting, but changes to the proposal caused the vote to be delayed to allow for two public hearings to be held. The change that caused the delay and two public hearings is that rather than enact the moratorium

only on city and public property, commissioners agreed to enact the six-month moratorium throughout the city, including on privately owned commercial property.

The new version of the moratorium also will include docked bike and scooter rental systems, not just dockless ones.

City Attorney Patricia Petruff said that she hadn’t included privately owned businesses in the original version of the moratorium ordinance because she said most businesses in the C-2 and C-3 districts where the rentals would be allowed will need a site plan amendment to expand their business to include the scooter or bicycle rentals.

Commissioner Rick Hurst expressed concern that docked or dockless systems would encourage riders to drive to the docking station and leave their vehicles while utilizing the bicycle or scooter, resulting in a parking issue. City

planner Bill Brisson said at a previous meeting that nothing in the city’s land development code or city ordinances covers parking for alternative transportation rental companies outside of the required parking for retail spaces based on the square footage of the store. Since a business like the proposed Mobile Muttley’s docked bicycle rental service would be a home-based office business, there are currently no regulations requiring a certain number of parking spaces.

Before the proposed ordinance can come back to commissioners for a first public hearing and approval it must be given a recommendation by the city’s Planning Commission as to whether or not the moratorium is consistent with the city’s comprehensive plan. If the moratorium passes commission vote, it will be backdated to an effective date of Sept. 25.

20

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THE SUN

Tourism winter cure campaign set to launch Impact of red tide on Anna Maria Island and Longboat Key cited.

BY CINDY LANE SUN STAFF WRITER | clane@amisun.com

The county’s new tourism marketing campaign will run from November through the winter tourist season to counteract the loss of visitors during the red tide bloom that began locally in August.

The strategy is contrary to what Bradenton Area Convention and Visitor’s Bureau Director Elliott Falcione had promised Anna Maria Island residents requesting relief from burgeoning tourism, he told the Manatee County Tourist Development Council (TDC) on Monday.

But with the recent loss of visitors, “I think it makes sense,” he said. “Then next year we will get back to normal.”

The impact of red tide on Anna Maria Island and Longboat Key has been significant, said the

county’s tourism consultant, Walter Klages, of Research Data Services.

The number of visitors dropped from 48,700 in August 2017 to 42,000 this August.

“That’s a pretty significant impact and decrease,” he said.

Room nights decreased by 9.3 percent, economic impact dropped 11.4 percent and occupancy dropped 13.7 percent. The number of Floridians visiting the area was down nearly 23 percent in August, he said.

Tourism statistics are not yet available for September.

Red tide is a passing thing, Klages said, adding that visitors who have been to the area before will not be deterred from visiting again.

The county tourism agency no longer will respond to media requests to comment on the red tide, Falcione said.

“If you talk about economic loss, you create the perception in the market that we have a problem,” he said.

Monday’s red tide forecast from the University of South Florida/Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission Collaboration for Prediction of Red Tides is for low levels in Anna Maria Island waters and medium levels in Longboat Key waters through Wednesday, Oct. 17.

THE CURE

Local tourism marketers will use the new international digital marketing campaign to geotarget selected visitors, Falcione said.

The premise is based on ailments and a cure.

Got pale-a-tosis? Need-a-vacation-itis? Fam-nesia?

People searching online for vacation destinations will find cures for these conditions in Bradenton,

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Parking will be available at the F.I.S.H. Preserve located after 115th Street West going west. The preserve will be on your left.

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SEE TOURISM, PAGE 43

OCTOBER 17, 2018

Win a beach vacation on AMI The Bradenton Area Convention and Visitors Bureau has launched a sweepstakes with WFLA 970 Tampa Bay offering diners the chance to win the ultimate beach vacation for their friends or family throughout the month of October.

To be entered into the sweepstakes, those taking advantage of one of the 30 Day Deals offered at participating restaurants (listed at BradentonGulfIslands.com/RestaurantMonth) should post a picture of themselves enjoying their meal to either Facebook or Instagram alongside #DineCoastal.

Those who do will be entered to win one of two packages.

PACKAGE ONE

• Voucher for two (2) round-trip air fare to Sarasota/Bradenton International Airport; • Gift Certificate for two (2) adults for a five-night stay at Silver Surf Resort; • Gift Certificate for two (2) adults for a one-hour Segway tour compliments of Segs by the Sea; • Anna Maria Island restaurant vouchers.

PACKAGE TWO

• Voucher for two (2) round-trip air fare to Sarasota/Bradenton International Airport; • Gift Certificate for two (2) adults for a five-night stay at Bridgewalk Resort; • Gift Certificate for two (2) adults for a one-hour Segway tour compliments of Segs by the Sea; • Anna Maria Island restaurant vouchers.

The sweepstakes is part of the Bradenton Area Restaurant Month promotion, created to drive business to the coastal establishments hit hardest by the economic downturn resulting from red tide.

www.amisun.com

OCTOBER 17, 2018

THE SUN

21

Postcard causes issue for mayoral candidate

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

Holmes Beach mayoral candidate Josh Linney is coming under fire, this time for offering an hour of free technical support on his election postcard mailing. Offering anything of monetary value in election mailings, including services, is a violation of state statute because it implies that candidates are paying for votes.

The catch with Linney’s mailing is that, according to his company site, Digital Verb.com, he doesn’t charge for an hour of technical support, only labor which is listed at $50 per hour.

According to Sharon Stief, chief deputy at the Manatee County supervisor of election office, the statement on the postcard is in violation of Florida state statute 104.061, which states, “No person shall directly or indirectly give or promise anything of value to another intending thereby to buy that person’s or another’s vote.”

Linney argues that while he’s aware of the law, the statute doesn’t apply to him because the offered service has no monetary value.

SUBMITTED | SUN

An election mailing by Holmes Beach mayoral candidate Josh Linney offers an hour of technical support services for free, a statement county officials say is in violation of Florida state statutes.

“I think it’s important that it be known, the postcard doesn’t change the price or make it free; it’s always free. There isn’t any cash value, never has been because I don’t charge people,” Linney said to The Sun. Linney said that rather than offering a service to voters for their support of his campaign, he hopes

that the offer on his campaign postcards will be taken as an opportunity for him to interact with the public. He said in exchange for answering residents' questions he wants residents to tell him how, if elected, he could work to make Holmes Beach better.

SEE LINNEY, PAGE 31

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THE SUN

Turtle season soars into record books

BY CINDY LANE SUN STAFF WRITER | clane@amisun.com

The 2018 sea turtle season on Anna Maria Island is a record-breaking success, due primarily to the volunteers of Anna Maria Island Turtle Watch and Shorebird Monitoring, director Suzi Fox said at the annual banquet on Saturday.

Out of a record 534 turtle nests laid, 447 nests hatched, producing a record 35,788 hatchlings, about 10,000 more than in 2017, she said. About half the turtles that climbed up on the beach this season nested.

Not all news was good, however.

Fifty nests were disoriented by lights, which confuse both nesting and hatching turtles, keeping mothers from laying nests and attracting hatchlings away from the water.

Four nests were washed into the Gulf of Mexico by Hurricane Michael.

And for the first time in the organization’s 36-year history, a dog dug into a nest and pulled out the hatchlings, a week before they were due to hatch.

Dogs are not allowed on Anna Maria Island beaches.

Coyotes also have been spotted on the beach for the first time, she said, adding that there is no evidence of them digging into nests.

With 20 new volunteers this year, Turtle Watch will not be accepting any new people in 2019, Fox said.

She cited volunteers for their special contributions: Kathy Noonan for the Adopt-a-Nest program and office work; Scott Riggs, Linda and Pat Caldwell for nest stakes and office work; Maggie Carter, Barbara Riskey, Denise Gardner, Cindy Richmond, Bob Haynes and Lynn Brennen for giving Turtle Talks; Dave Ault “for just about everything;” Karen Norton for bird surveys and Amy Waterbury for photos.

Strike team Members of the Manatee County hurricane response strike team, including firefighters from West Manatee Fire Rescue and county emergency medical personnel, gather for a group photo while working to help clear debris in the Florida panhandle in the wake of Hurricane Michael.

WMFR | SUBMITTED

CINDY LANE | SUN

Suzi Fox points to the "lights out" reminder during turtle season.

Fox recognized coordinators with free car washes and said thanks and farewell to Mary Lechleidner and Marilyn George, who are retiring from Turtle Watch.

Turtle season officially ends on Oct. 31, but while all marked nests have been accounted for on the Island, some nests may have been laid that were not discovered and marked.

Please continue to comply with turtle lighting ordinances and keep beach-facing windows dark.

NESTINGNEWS Turtle nests laid: 534 (all-time AMI record) False crawls: 543 Nests hatched: 447 Not hatched: 87 Nests remaining: 0 Hatchlings hatched: 35,788 (all-time AMI record) Nest disorientations: 50 Source: Anna Maria Island Turtle Watch and Shorebird Monitoring

OCTOBER 17, 2018

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OCTOBER 17, 2018

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941.779.2337 9:00 AM - 10:00 PM 7 DAYS A WEEK 5344 3 GULF DRIVE, HOLMES BEACH

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OCTOBER 17, 2018

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THE SUN

OUTDOORS

OCTOBER 17, 2018

Cooling temps great for fishing CAPTAIN DAVE WHTE

The FWC reports, that after our recent bout of weather that the red tide seems to have left our area. They found a very small trace amount on the southern end of Coquina Beach but not enough to have any affect on the wildlife or environment. Fishing has been great both inshore and offshore.

The water temperatures are cooling down a bit, and this has a great effect on the fishing. I find that when water temperatures are around 74 degrees, the fishing is great. We’re still a ways off from that, but these cooler nights will get us there.

Snook, redfish, Jack crevalle, man-

grove snapper, Spanish mackerel and flounder fishing is all going strong in the waters around the island. Snook and redfish are catch and release until further notice. But it’s easy to get your share of snapper at the moment. Live pilchards, either free lined or under a cork will yield results.

Offshore, amberjack, red grouper, mangrove snapper, and African pompano are the targets. Although with the weather trending toward fall, we should start seeing tuna and kingfish showing up pretty good.

We here at Anna Maria Charters recommend taking advantage of the conditions. Tight lines.

CAPTAIN DAVE WHITE | SUBMITTED

Colleen Paige, of Southfield, Mich., shows off a plump redfish caught with Captain David White, of Anna Maria Charters.

www.amisun.com

OCTOBER 17, 2018

THE SUN

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CINDY LANE | SUN

Queen of the night From a spindly, thorny cactus in Bradenton Beach, this single bloom burst forth the night that Hurricane Michael hit Florida, Wednesday, Oct. 10. The flower of the night-blooming cereus, or Queen of the Night, blooms only one night each year.

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THE SUN

OCTOBER 17, 2018

Family fun at the fire house A crowd gathered Oct. 13 at WMFR’s station 1 on 67th Street for the district’s annual open house festivities.

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

BRADENTON – West Manatee Fire Rescue personnel took a little time off from the serious business of keeping the community safe to throw a family-friendly block party.

The district’s 2018 open house festivities took place Oct. 13 at Station 1 on 67th Street in Bradenton.

This year’s community gathering was so big that it reached from the fire station to the end of the block and brought out hundreds of families to meet their local first responders, take a tour of the fire station, play games and enjoy lunch.

On hand for this year’s event were representatives from Domino’s Pizza store 5038 providing pizza, Winn-Dixie store 2404 serving up hotdogs and hamburgers with firefighters and snow cones were served from the Kona Ice Truck.

Artists from Childlike Productions handed out balloon animals and painted faces. Members of the Manatee High School Keys and Canes club also donated their time by lending firefighters a helping hand wherever needed, and Holmes Beach Police Officers helped provide crowd and traffic control.

KRISTIN SWAIN | SUN

The crowd enjoys pizza, hot dogs, hamburgers and snow cones, above. Right, Old Glory flies gracefully over the open house at the end of the towering ladder.

WMFR commissioners, firefighters and even Chief Tom Sousa took turns in the dunk tank where some firefighters gave a helping hand to younger ball throwers.

Another popular attraction was the bounce house with a line rivaling that for the dunk tank.

Children also lined up to don firefighter gear and compete on an obstacle course. Firefighters helped families through the Southern Manatee Fire District safe house and took attendees on tours of the district’s rescue equipment

including the fire boat and ladder truck and allowed children to take a seat in one fire truck.

The free event drew large crowds and featured on-site music and live broadcasts from AMI Radio.

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SUBMITTED

Wedding vows on the beach On Friday, Aug. 3, 2018, at 5 p.m. Denise and Keith “Po” Porter united in marriage on the beach at 30th Street in Holmes Beach. The ceremony was officiated by Darla Tingler and witnessed by Debi and Troy Thompson. Afterwards, the newlyweds celebrated with friends at The Anchor.

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THE SUN

OCTOBER 17, 2018

Deciding the future of Spring Lake Commissioners hope residents will weigh in on whether Spring Lake should remain a saltwater lake or return to its freshwater origins.

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

HOLMES BEACH – Commissioners aren’t sure about what to do for the future of Spring Lake, and they’re hoping the lake’s residents will step up to help them make a decision.

City Engineer Lynn Burnett presented commissioners with a water quality report and lake assessment for Spring Lake during an Oct. 9 meeting. Burnett said she agreed with the assessment made by Aquatic Systems Lake and Wetland Services to install an aeration system to improve oxygen levels in the polluted lake and monitor the water quality periodically.

Burnett also suggested dredging the lake to remove pollutants on the bottom and adding a connection to a freshwater well to refill the lake as needed. Two things that city commissioners weren’t sure about with the plan are the cost to dredge the lake and whether the currently saltwater lake should be cut off from tidal waters and made into a freshwater lake.

The report listed the lake’s waters as well over the recommended levels for phosphorus, nitrogen and ammonia, with levels significantly higher at the bottom of the lake than at the top. The oxygen level in the lake is listed as critically low and unable to support aquatic

KRISTIN SWAIN | SUN

Commissioners are considering several options to help clear the waters of Spring Lake in Holmes Beach. life. The lake’s waters also have high levels of chloride, salt, dissolved solids and suspended solids.

Burnett said that pollution in the lake is caused by a number of things including fertilizers and sediment washing in from nearby houses, dumping into the lake and leakage from a nearby waste station, the same one that had a massive leak more than two years ago, dumping around 30,000 gallons of waste water into the lake.

With the lake being a man-made structure created from a natural freshwater wetland system, Burnett suggested cutting off the saltwater intrusion to the

lake, removing pollutants, dredging the bottom, installing an aeration system, and connecting the lake to natural artesian wells to make the lake a freshwater system. She said, if the residents want it, the lake could be stocked with freshwater fish for fishing. The catch for residents is that to keep the lake clean of pollutants, residents surrounding the lake would not be able to fertilize their rear yards because of runoff into the lake system.

“It’s beautiful back there,” she said. “I hope the residents would want to protect and preserve it.”

Commissioners Judy Titsworth and

Carol Soustek were both concerned about dredging at the lake. Titsworth said she understands dredging to be expensive and there’s a lack of access to Spring Lake. She also questioned where materials would be dumped after removal from the water. Soustek questioned if it would be possible to remove pollutants over time with aeration and pellets designed to break down the pollutants in the water. Burnett said she’d have to get quotes and speak with experts to be able to come back to commissioners with options for viable solutions.

“We need to find a way to fix it,” Soustek said of the lake.

Lake resident Melissa Williams gave commissioners an impassioned plea during public comment to allow the lake to remain saltwater, as it has been since the 1950s, calling it “a wonderful mistake.”

Titsworth noted the lake would be easier to maintain if it was left as a saltwater lake and questioned if it would be possible to clean the lake then restock it with fish.

Burnett said she would look into the possibility to present commissioners with all of the options. To allow the lake to remain tidal, she said the WaStop valve on the outflow pipe at Grand Canal would have to be removed and the lake’s residents would then be subject to flooding from king tides and sea level rise.

While she understands that the lake has been a saltwater lake since it was turned from wetlands without permits in the 1950s, sea level rise makes it a different situation for surrounding residents in the coming decades.

The matter will come back before commissioners on a future work session.

www.amisun.com

OCTOBER 17, 2018

CITY FIELD: New plans emerge FROM PAGE 15

smaller than its current size and adequate drainage will be needed.

Dog park users in attendance at the work session agreed with Titsworth’s plan. Both Don Anthony and Renee Ferguson said they were “very, very happy” with the new plan for the dog park. Anthony suggested leaving the third baseline dugout in place to provide a shaded spot for dog park users to sit just outside the proposed park area.

Burnett agreed to study the area and measure it to make sure that the improvements planned for the dog park would fit and that adequate drainage could be obtained.

After a lengthy discussion, commissioners also asked Burnett to study the feasibility of moving the skate park so that it fronts Marina Drive, where noise from skaters would be near commercial businesses rather than residential homes. They also suggested moving the parking area more toward the east along the city hall side of the park complex and expanding the Flotilla Drive parking area near the dog park and basketball courts. This, they suggested, could better serve park goers and overflow parking from the nearby public boat ramp.

Burnett agreed to come back before commissioners at a future work session with a new plan for city field incorporating their suggestions.

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THE SUN

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LINNEY: Postcard causes issue FROM PAGE21

“I just want to engage with the community,” he said. “I’ll do whatever they need. I’ll clean their house if they want me to.”

In an emailed statement, Linney said “I don’t think it’s fair to ask hardworking residents, citizens and merchants to take time out of their day if I’m not willing to do the same. If someone has a problem and they think I have the solution, I’m willing to take the time to go meet with them personally to see if I can help them. If any in the city of

Holmes Beach has anything they want me to hear about anything or wants to ask me any question any time, I’ll go to them personally to hear it. That’s the way it should be.”

The statement on his campaign postcards causes an issue because generally, technical support does lend itself to a cost, particularly in-home assistance.

Without a complaint to the state elections board that would have to be investigated, the issue won’t move forward or pose a threat to remove Linney from

candidacy in Holmes Beach.

Linney said that right now he has no plans to re-release the postcard mailing without the concerning offer, however, he said he will if necessary.

As of press time for The Sun, no complaints had been filed with the Florida Elections Commission concerning Linney’s election postcard.

Absentee voting is already underway in Holmes Beach. Early voting begins Oct. 24 in Manatee County. Election day is Tuesday, Nov. 6.

BB COMMISSION: Candidates speak FROM PAGE 5

Maro: “I’m just hoping for a good commission like we have now, where everybody works together to try to solve problems because we work for the residents.”

Martin: “I would like to see the

lighting on Gulf Drive addressed right away. We are a resort community with a lot of walkers and bicyclists, which we should embrace, but we need to address that safety issue.”

Metz: “All commission vacancies should be filled by election,

not appointment. City boards should only have residents on them. City residents should be exempt from TPLE regulations on vacation rentals. Moratorium should be reinstated. Housing size and capacity should be limited.”

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THE SUN

OCTOBER 17, 2018

Powerful Michael marches past AMI As Hurricane Michael barrelled up through the Gulf last week, it did suprisingly little damage to Anna Maria Island before devastating the Panhandle as a Category 5 storm. Here on AMI, minor flooding, beach erosion and a waterspout or two were all the hurricane left in its wake.

CHANTELLE LEWIN | SUN

KRISTIN SWAIN | SUN

Above left, one of the few places on the AMI shore where significant erosion was seen. Above, red tide foam blows across the beach as angry waves pound the shore, leaving the beach relatively unaffected. Right, high water in Anna Maria. Left, 24th Street North in Bradenton Beach was left underwater, looking more like a canal than a road.

JOE HENDRICKS | SUN

JOE HENDRICKS | SUN

KRISTIN SWAIN | SUN

Above, a turtle nest is inundated by the surging tide.

Left, a waterspout is just visible hanging out of the clouds in Holmes Beach.

CONNOR FIELD | SUN

OCTOBER 17, 2018

ENTERTAINMENT

FAMILY FUN At the Island Branch Library, 5701 Marina Drive, Holmes Beach: • Wednesday, Oct. 17, Lifelong Learning Academy, “Kayaking the Ohio River,” 1 to 2:30 p.m.; TIFF- To Inform Families First, 4 to 5 p.m.

• Thursday, Oct. 18, a veteran’s services professional will be available to help vets with needs, 9 to 11 a.m.; Book Club, “America’s First Daughter,” 10 to 11:30 a.m.; Learn to knit/crochet, 1 to 2 p.m.; Sunshine Stitchers knit and crochet, 2 to 4 p.m., • Friday, Oct. 19, Mahjongg Club, 1 to 3 p.m.

• Tuesday, Oct. 23, Preschool story time, “Fall,” 10 to 11 a.m.; Mahjongg Club, 11:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m.; Master Gardener “Culinary Herbs,” 2 to 3 p.m.

KAYAKER TELLS ALL

Former Anna Maria City Commissioner Tom Skoloda speaks to Einstein’s Circle about kayaking the Ohio, River, from 1 to 2:30 p.m. on Wednesday, Oct 17 at Island Branch Library, 5701 Marina Drive, Holmes Beach.

Last summer, Skoloda paddled from Pittsburg, Pa., to Cairo, Ill. His presentation includes a slide show. The show is free.

GARDEN CLUB MEETS

The Anna Maria Island Garden Club meets on Wednesday, Oct. 17, at 11:30 a.m. at Roser Community Church, 512 Pine Ave., to start another season.

Members will discuss beautification projects, and Nancy Stewart will talk about their plant sale on Saturday, Dec. 1. Ray Krueger will discuss orchids, and lunch will be served for members.

Visitors may eat for $5. A plant will raffled. Tickets are $5. They will also distribute club directories

DROP ANCHOR AND SHOP

The Florida Maritime Museum (FMM) hosts the 21st Annual Cortez Nautical Flea Market on Saturday, Oct. 20, from 8 a.m. to 1 p.m. with a rain date of Oct. 27.

Boat lovers can shop for anything nautical from décor to fishing supplies; they have it all for beginners to the saltiest pilots.

There will be live music from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m., and food and drinks will be available for purchase. There will be live music by The Treble Hooks Dock 'n' Reel.

This event is free to the public and is primarily located on the grounds of the Florida Maritime Museum. Parking will be available at the F.I.S.H. Preserve located after 115th Street West going west. The preserve will be on the left.

The flea market sponsors are The Anna Maria Island Sun, Southwinds Magazine, Bonefish Grill, Snead Island Boat Works Inc., Mackey Law Group PA and Florida Institute for Saltwater Heritage and the Cortez Village Cultural Center.

FMM is looking for nautical vendors to participate in this fun and familyfriendly event. Examples of vendors are used and new fishing supplies, powerboat equipment, diving gear and sailing gear. For vendors who provide their own tables and tents there is a $35 registration fee. Space is limited so reserve now to, https://www.cognitoforms.com/FriendsOfTheFloridaMaritimeMuseum/VendorApplicationNauticalFleaMarket.

Boaters can also donate their gently used boating and fishing gear to the Friends of the Florida Maritime Museum to be sold at their fundraising booth. Proceeds from this booth will support FMM’s continued efforts to preserve and share Florida’s maritime history.

THE FESTIVAL SEASON STARTS HERE

The 18th Annual Bayfest, sponsored by the Anna Maria Chamber of Commerce, kicks off the season on Saturday, Oct. 20, from 10 a.m. to 9 p.m. along Pine Avenue in Anna Maria. It’s time to shake off all those bad vibes from red tide and monster hurricanes and get back to celebrating the Island lifestyle.

This year, the Chamber is using the Island’s most attended festival to take care of those affected by the red tide outbreak by taking donations during the event and taking a percentage of proceeds from the sale of adult beverages and all the money from the tip jars to help those who have become under-employed or unemployed, due to

the lack of tourism, to get back on their feet. There will be a raffle for a luxurious Island Experience valued at more than $1,500.

Admission to Bayfest is free, and there’s something for everyone. There will be live music all day and liquid refreshments ranging from bottled water to soda to beer, wine and cocktails. For the youngsters, the Kids Zone offers bounce houses, face painting and games. The Bill Mergens Memorial Car Show will bring back memories of rock and roll, sock hops and cruising the streets. The show runs from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m.

Bayfest also brings something else to the table – a wide choice of delicious foods from local restaurants and distributors. Participating food vendors include Hurricane Hank’s, Eliza Ann’s Coastal Kitchen. Subz-N-Grubz, T&L’s Barbecue and Soul Food Catering, Joey D’s Chicago Style Eatery, Tyler’s Homemade Ice Cream, The Feast restaurant, Gran Arepa, Churrolicious, Hahn’s Kettle Corn, The Waterfront restaurant, Quality Food International, Tropi-coco, Superb Quality Foods and Kona Ice. If you live on the Island or can park along the Island Trolley route, take the free trolley. CrossPointe Fellowship at 8605 Gulf Drive has parking spots, and a free dedicated trolley will take riders to the event.

Come on out to Bayfest to celebrate the Island’s beauty and that laid back lifestyle that defines the Island. For more information, call the Chamber at 941-778-1541.

A SPOOKTACULAR TIME

The Manatee County Parks and Natural Resources Department presents its 16th annual Goblin Gathering on Friday, Oct. 19, from 6:30 to 9:30 p.m. at G.T. Bray Park This Halloween- themed event provides a fun family atmosphere for all ages featuring hayrides, face painting, bounce houses, inflatable slides and a costume contest with great prizes.

During the event, children will be able to trick-or-treat and receive free candy.

In addition, exhibitors and local businesses provide entertaining Halloween activities for participants. This year will feature a Trunk-or-Treat Alley spon-

THE SUN

33

sored by Manatee County Public Safety Department.

Admission and trick-or-treating is free, and a $5 wristband is sold for children to participate in activities.

Food vendors will be on site with food for sale at an additional cost. Parental participation is free. For more information, call 941-742-5923.

YOGA IN THE PARK

Yoga instructor Brandy Gray hosts a free and fun intermediate level yoga class on Sunday, Oct, 21, and every Sunday morning from 10 to 11:15 a.m. at Palma Sola Park, 9800 17th Ave. N.W., Bradenton. This class is open to public and community to connect, unwind and engage in shared mindful movement with intentions of supporting individual and collective (physical, mental, emotional, spiritual) health and well-being.

Attendees are asked to bring their own mat, water, towel and sunscreen.

This program is sponsored by Sacred Landings Crystal Creations: A Crystal & Yoga Wellness Studio. For more information, visit https://www.facebook. com/events/2187078391580244/

WOMEN’S WELLNESS EVENT SET

The Anna Maria Island Art League, 5312 Holmes Blvd, Holmes Beach, hosts Art, Play, Love, a Women’s Wellness Weekend from Friday, Nov. 9 through Sunday, Nov, 11 Enjoy enlightening, educational, artistic and inspirational programs that attendees get to choose. The event urges women to take this time to do something great for themselves. Minimum age is 18 and there are more than 13 classes to choose from for $85 per person if registered by Oct. 25. After that it is $100 per person. Spaces are limited, and additional fees will apply for some programs.

Featured instructors/facilitators are Frannie Hoffman, Sheryl Spikes, Lori Heintz, Cindy Phillips, Gigi Wiegman, Susan Huppert, Dr. Brian Nell, Jody Tschida, Karen Chambers, Todd McIntyre and Casey Hoffman.

To register or for information about the weekend program email artleagueami@gmail.com or call Fran at 941-778-2099.

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THE SUN

MARK YOUR CALENDAR From Page 7

Master Gardener, Culinary Herbs, Island Branch Library, 5701 Marina Drive, Holmes Beach, 2 p.m.

WEDNESDAY OCT. 24

Coloring Club, Island Branch Library, 5701 Marina Drive, Holmes Beach, noon.

AMI Chamber of Commerce October Business Card Exchange, Waller-Mixon Insurance, 5412 Marina Drive, Holmes Beach, 5-7 p.m., $5 for members and $10 for prospective members.

Reserve to 941-778-1541 or info@amichamber.org.

THURSDAY OCT. 25

Veteran Services Information, Island Branch Library, 5701 Marina Drive, Holmes Beach, 9 a.m.

Roser-Robics chair-based

exercise class, Roser Church, 512 Pine Ave., Anna Maria, 9:30 a.m.

Zumba and mat pilates for seniors, The Paradise Center, 567 Bay Isles Rd., Longboat Key, 10 a.m., $10 per class.

Reserve to maryannbrady@ theparadisecenter.org or 941-383-6493.

Seaside Quilters, Island Branch Library, 5701 Marina Drive, Holmes Beach, 10 a.m.

Jam in the Sand, Anna Maria Island Beach Café, 4000 Gulf Drive, Holmes Beach, 5 to 8 p.m.

Science and service book club, Mosaic NEST, Robinson Preserve, 1704 99th St. N.W., Bradenton, 5:30 p.m.

Reserve to 941-742-5923 ext.

6035.

FRIDAY OCT. 26

Forty Carrots, Island Branch

Library, 5701 Marina Drive, Holmes Beach, 10 a.m.

Fridays at Paradise Café, The Paradise Center, 567 Bay Isles Rd., Longboat Key, 10:30 a.m., $10. Reserve to maryannbrady@theparadisecenter.org or 941-383-6493.

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

Sunset drum circle, Manatee Beach, 4000 Gulf Drive, Holmes Beach, 5 to 8 p.m.

SATURDAY OCT. 27

NEST nature days, Mosaic NEST, Robinson Preserve, 1704 99th St. N.W., Bradenton, 9 a.m. to noon and 1 to 4 p.m.

CPR Training, Island Branch Library, 5701 Marina Drive, Holmes Beach, 9 a.m.

Pumpkin carving, Mosaic NEST, Robinson Preserve, 1704 99th St. N.W., Bradenton, 6 p.m., $10 cash only.

Reserve to aedan.stockdale@mymanatee.org.

MONDAY OCT. 29

Social bridge games, Roser Church, 512 Pine Ave., Anna Maria, noon.

TUESDAY OCT. 30

Farmer’s Market, City Pier Park, 100 Bay Dr. N., Anna Maria, 8:30 a.m.-2 p.m.

Roser-Robics chair-based exercise class, Roser Church, 512 Pine Ave., Anna Maria, 9:30 a.m.

Preschool story time, Island Branch Library, 5701 Marina Drive, Holmes Beach, 10 a.m.

Yoga for Seniors, The Paradise Center, 567 Bay Isles Rd., Longboat Key, 10 a.m., $10. Reserve to maryannbrady@theparadisecenter. org or 941-383-649 Mahjong, Island Branch Library, 5701 Marina Drive, Holmes Beach, 11:30 a.m.

Catch illness in time You could be alerted to possible stroke or other health problems by taking Prevention Plus Stroke and Vascular Screening offered on Friday, Oct. 19, at The Center, 407 Magnolia, Anna Maria.

The screenings are being offered at reduced prices. They include stroke/carotid ultrasound for $40, abdominal aortic aneurysm for $40, arterial disease test for $40, thyroid ultrasound for $40, abdom-

inal ultrasound for $95 and heart scan-echocardiogram for $95 or all six tests for only $179. Blood tests, liver, cholesterol, PSA and TSH tests are also available. To register, call 888-667-7587.

OCTOBER 17, 2018

OCTOBER 17, 2018

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County considers grant for beach shuttle service The project with a $59,000 three-year budget would begin in December 2019.

BY TOM VAUGHT SUN STAFF WRITER | tvaught@amisun.com

HOLMES BEACH – The Manatee County Board of Commissioners is bidding for a Florida Department of Transportation grant that would ease demand for parking spaces at Manatee Public Beach.

During season, the beach parking lot fills up rapidly, and beachgoers park on the side of Manatee Avenue, causing a nightmare for Holmes Beach Police when afternoon thunderstorms cause everyone to pack up and head for home at the same time.

At its Sept. 25 meeting, the Manatee County Commission approved a request for a $59,000 three-year grant to fund free shuttle buses operating from 9 a.m. to 7 p.m.

on weekends and holidays during peak season, from Dec. 1 through April 30.

Beachgoers would park their vehicles in underutilized shopping center lots at 75th Street West and Manatee Avenue, where they would catch the shuttles.

The service would be called the Beach ConneXion, and in some cases, residents without their own transportation could catch a bus to the parking lots.

Manatee County Area Transit Planning Director Ryan Suarez said this service already shuttles to the Island from various points in Bradenton, although not from a parking lot. He said if they get the grant, the Beach ConneXion grant money would not be available until the 2020 fiscal year.

The request said that the shuttle would likely decrease the number of vehicles that tie up Manatee Avenue from as far as 59th Street West and farther during peak beach days.

TOM VAUGHT | SUN

If Manatee County Area Transit's attempts to get a grant are successful, shuttle buses will be used by beachgoers on weekends and holidays to keep their vehicles off the Island.

P R E PA R E T O B E FA S C I N AT E D

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THE SUN

REAL ESTATE

OCTOBER 17, 2018

Understanding real estate finance

T

he majority of home sales are transacted with a mortgage for the buyer. If you’re one of those buyers or if you’re buyer is obtaining a mortgage, there are laws that are mandated by the federal government, which all parties to the transaction should know.

These regulations are written and enforced through the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau, and we’ll review some of those laws here.

The Consumer Financial Protection Bureau was created under the Dodd-Frank Wall Street Reform and Consumer Protection Act of 2010 shortly after the housing bubble burst and the subsequent financial crises and funded by the Federal Reserve and the Department of the Treasury. It has on occasion been criticized for banking regulations that were perceived as too strict, however, it has been successful in protecting consumers seeking home financing.

The act prohibits discrimination in any aspect of a credit transaction, reinforcing other anti-discrimination laws. Individuals cannot

Castles in the Sand LOUISE BOLGER be discriminated for race, religion, national origin, sex, marital status, age or income derived from public assistance programs. The anti-age discrimination aspect to the law is very interesting, since I am frequently asked by people my age and older if they can still obtain a mortgage for a property purchase or if they will qualify for a refinance on their existing property. The answer is yes, as long as they qualify in all other aspects.

The law also stipulates that lenders must consider reliable public assistance income, reliable part-time income, Social Security income, pension income and annuities. Again, much of this relates to senior citizens’ ability to obtain financing.

In addition, alimony, child support or other types of maintenance income must be considered. And lenders cannot, for example, consider a man’s salary at 100 percent and a woman’s at 75 percent, nor can they assume a woman of childbearing age will stop working. When I read this aspect of the law, I was reminded that I’m old enough not to have my income counted when my husband and I bought our first house. All the bank wanted to know was my name.

Credit is also a very important factor when applying for home financing and the Fair Credit Reporting Act enforces discrepancies in credit reporting. The three major national credit reporting companies – Equifax, Experian and TransUnion compile information supplied by credit card companies and banks. Consumers have the right to a free copy of their credit reports annually to verify correct information. Negative information can remain on a credit report for seven years, however, recently it was approved that smaller dollar value negative informa-

tion can be removed sooner, as well as some medical debt. Credit scoring is part of this, commonly known as FICO scores, and they range from 400 to 900. Mortgage lenders use these scores as a first step in analyzing credit worthiness.

The Consumer Financial Protection Bureau also enacted the Truth in Lending Act requiring costs and fees to be written in plain, understandable language, particularly in advertising. For example, the term APR or Annual Percentage Rate must include interest, points, origination fees, application fee, assignment, assumption fee and other lesser known fees as well as an amortization schedule.

Finally, The Real Estate Settlement Procedures Act has changed how the closing documents and previous mortgage disclosure forms were drawn. The three major areas affected is the loan estimate which now requires the lender to be within 10 percent SEE BOLGER, PAGE 37

OCTOBER 17, 2018

Wrestling hits Center Youth wrestling comes back to the mat as a specialty sport at The Center of Anna Maria Island with the season beginning Nov. 9. Wrestling is open to children of all experience levels.

Coaches will teach grappling techniques including clinch fighting, joint locks, throws and takedowns and pins along with other wrestling techniques. Wrestling is a combat sport.

The cost for the season is $100 for members and $130 for non-members. The last day to register is Nov. 3. Practice will be held from 5:15-6:30 p.m. on Thursdays and Fridays with a third practice day added later in the season. The Center’s Wrestling Club will travel to nearby local tournaments on weekends to compete.

Participants can register by calling the Center at 941-778-1908, going online to www.centerami.org or visiting the nonprofit at 407 Magnolia Ave., Anna Maria. For more information, contact Will Schenerlein at 941-778-1908, ext. 9205, or will@centerami. org.

BOLGER: Real estate finance FROM PAGE 37

of the actual cost and be available within three days after specifics to the loan is provided. The new Closing Disclosure form and closing documents are now required to be provided to the consumer three business days before closing.

Certainly, these updates are only the highlights of changes enacted to protect you as the consumer but it does provide the basics of mortgage lending. We’re all responsible for what we sign make sure you’re understanding the papers before you.

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Hoping for a good season Monday, Oct. 15, was the first day of Florida’s annual stone crab harvesting season, and at least one local restaurant was already serving them up.

“We had 20 pounds come in for lunch today, and we’ll have more for dinner tonight. I think that’s a good sign,” Bob Slicker, general manager at the Swordfish Grill in Cortez, said Monday afternoon.

When asked about the impact the recent red tide blooms might have on this year’s season, Slicker said, “At this point it’s too early to tell, but I’m hearing from the captains that the waters look good.”

Stone crabbers are allowed to set their traps 10 days in advance of opening day.

CHANTELLE LEWIN | SUN

Above, Swordfish Grill Manager Katrina Cox and General Manager Bob Slicker hold a plate of stone crabs Monday at the restaurant. Left, a pile of stone crabs at Star Fish Co.

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THE SUN

TOM VAUGHT | SUN

First place Marie Garafano’s “Coquina Path” received the blue ribbon in the Plein Aire competition recently on the Island. The reception was held last Thursday at the Studio at Gulf and Pine with snacks and wine from the Sandbar restaurant. Thirty artists competed in the judged event. There was also a one-day event where artists had to finish their works the same day they started. Garafano was doubly excited at the reception because she sold her work to an attendee that night.

Library dolls

Marion Duncan’s collection of Japanese dolls is on display at the Island Branch Library, 5701 Marina Drive, Holmes Beach.

TOM VAUGHT | SUN

OCTOBER 17, 2018

OCTOBER 17, 2018

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Avenue C restoration accelerated The commission’s new plan calls for Avenue C to be fully restored by the end of April.

BY JOE HENDRICKS SUN CORRESPONDENT | jhendricks@amisun.com

BRADENTON BEACH – City commissioners want to make stormwater and drainage improvements along Avenue C sooner rather than later. As part of that process, the commission also wants to restore, at the city’s expense, the Avenue C driveways disturbed as part of Manatee County’s force main replacement project.

During the Tuesday, Oct. 9, work meeting, commissioners tentatively agreed to accelerate these previously discussed city projects. City Engineer Lynn Burnett was authorized to bring back to the commission a proposed $302,626 contract from Westra Construction – the company hired

by Manatee County to do its force main project.

In the past, the city contracted Woodruff & Sons to install the 57 stone-topped vertical infiltration trenches and alley-based drainage improvements. The original plan was to use Woodruff again for the Avenue C stormwater and drainage improvements planned for the 2019-2020 fiscal year.

During last week’s work meeting, Burnett

said the city could save approximately $20,000 in mobilization costs by having Westra do the job now, while still onsite finishing up the county force main project.

More importantly to Avenue C residents, Burnett said having Westra do the work would significantly reduce the time that the Avenue C driveways and city rights of way remained in an unfinished state.

Approximately 10 months ago, Westra began tearing up Avenue C and the connecting driveways and yards located in the city-owned rights of way.

The project timetable Burnett presented last week proposed the contract with Westra be executed this month, which would then allow the stormwater and drainage projects to begin in November and be completed in February. The final restoration of the Avenue C driveways and rights of ways would then occur in March and April and include the final paving of Avenue C. The previous plan called for Westra to simply restore the impacted driveways and rights of ways with the 57-stone that would remain in place until the city’s contractor came along to do the city-funded stormwater improvements beginning in late 2019.

As part of this modified approach, Burnett proposed the new four-foot wide infiltration trenches include honeycombed, plastic eco-grids that sit atop the fine sand

that replaces the muddy soil removed to create the trenches.

The eco-grid will then sit below the final surface material of the property owner’s choice. If the property owner had brick driveway pavers removed and stored as a result of the county project, those pavers will be replaced atop the eco-grid. If the driveways and rights of way were covered sod, grass, concrete, asphalt, 89 stone or 250 shell mix, those areas will be similarly restored.

Driveways not already disturbed by the force main project will not be disrupted by the stormwater project.

Previous infiltration trenches installed elsewhere in the city were topped with white, lime rock 57 stone that proved problematic in high traffic areas. Burnett said later there will be no visible lime rock associated with the Avenue C project.

During the work meeting, Mayor John Chappie and Commissioner Ralph Cole stressed the importance of the repaved Avenue C being graded in a manner that allows rainwater to properly drain toward the outfalls that empty into the bay.

The Avenue C residents who attended last week’s meeting encouraged the commission to get Avenue C fully stored as soon as possible, even if that means working through another peak tourism season.

JOE HENDRICKS | SUN

Avenue C has been in a constant state of disruption for the past 10 months due to the county’s force main replacement project.

PROJECT FUNDING

For the stormwater and driveway restoration projects to begin nearly a year ahead of schedule, two budget amendments have been scheduled for discussion at the commission’s regular meeting at noon on Thursday, Oct. 18.

The commission will be asked to approve a $140,161 budget amendment for the driveway restoration project and a $151,350 budget amendment for the stormwater and drainage improvements.

Before the budget amendments are voted on, the commission will be asked to release $400,000 previously set aside in the restricted pier reserve fund. On Monday, Chappie said that fund previously provided the city with self-insurance for the Bridge Street Pier that is now insured.

Southwest Florida Water Management District grants and future stormwater assessment revenue will help the city recoup the cost of these projects in future fiscal years.

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RELIEF: Drives under way FROM PAGE 9

partnering with Manatee County Search and Rescue to be a drop off location for hurricane relief goods to be transported to the Panhandle.

Items may be delivered to the police station, 5801 Marina Drive, from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m.

Monday through Friday until Oct. 21.

You can also drop them off at the following Beef O'Brady's locations: 8913 US-301 N Parrish 1795 Lakewood Ranch Blvd. Bradenton 4286 53rd Ave E ( corner of Lockwood Ridge Road and SR 70) Items requested include: duct tape, tarps, cleaning supplies, toys for little children, clothes such as T-shirts, socks, underwear and shoes, plus other nonperishable items like diapers, personal hygiene and feminine products.

There also is a desperate need for pants and boots for the first responders. Any help would be appreciated.

OCTOBER 17, 2018

Retribution sought for sea grape destruction Holmes Beach commissioners want justice for the vegetation removed from city property without permission by a local builder.

By Kristin Swain Sun Staff Writer | kswain@amisun.com

HOLMES BEACH – City commissioners are asking police officers and City Attorney Patricia Petruff to work together to find a way to prosecute local builder Shawn Kaleta for the destruction of sea grapes and other vegetation on city property.

The destruction of the sea grapes and sea oats was observed over the summer with Building Official Jim McGuinness putting a stop work order on the 102 47th Street property and adjacent lot until Kaleta came into compliance and received permitting from the Florida Department of Environmental Protection.

Kaleta owns two parcels of land at the western end of 47th Street from which he cleared of all vegetation up to the dune line and public beach access on the southern side of the property. He also cleared the vegetation from the city unimproved right of way that would extend Fourth Avenue from 48th to 47th Street that divides his two properties without permission from the city.

The incident is similar to a situation Kaleta found himself in over the summer of 2017 when he removed sea grapes and sea oats from another property he was developing at 102 77th Street. The property remained under a stop work order for more than a month while

KISTIN SWAIN | SUN

Two residential lots and the unimproved city right of way to extend Fourth Avenue between 47th and 48th streets have been cleared of all vegetation. the builder struggled to receive after the fact permits from the DEP, make an agreement to replace the removed sea grapes and sea oats with the DEP and come into compliance with the city’s building department. Though the sea grapes and sea oats were replanted at the location, it will take years for the plants to return to their previous size.

“This is minimal,” Commissioner Carol Soustek said of the replanting, a plan that will repeat itself at 47th Street. “What they destroyed at 77th Street was natural. What’s there now looks like a model house.”

Commissioner Judy Titsworth agreed, push-

ing for consideration of some sort of prosecution for the destruction at 47th Street and Fourth Avenue.

“Sea grapes need to be wild, not trimmed and pruned,” she said. “Fourth Avenue looks like a war zone.”

She added that as a licensed contractor, Kaleta should know the local laws and regulations about the removal of sea grapes. At the site of the sea grape removal on 47th Street, there is a sign at the beach access advising of the find for damaging sea grapes.

SEE RETRIBUTION ON PAGE 41

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OCTOBER 17, 2018

RED TIDE: Could get better FROM PAGE 1

said, adding that other times, storms concentrated nutrients near the shore, which makes red tide worse.

“We can’t really predict it. Every situation is different,” Pierce said.

Past hurricanes have not caused red tide blooms to dissipate, although the research is incomplete because the number of cases where blooms and hurricanes occurred at the same time is small, said Jerry Slaff, Public Affairs Specialist with the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA), noting, "We will be watching to see what effects Hurricane Michael has on the current bloom.”

Scientists agree that hurricanes can move red tide around. The 2005-06 red tide bloom off the coast of southwest Florida was carried up to the Florida Panhandle by Hurricane Katrina, according to NOAA, and the current bloom intensified and spread to the Florida Panhandle after Tropical Storm Gordon in September 2018.

RED TIDE WORSE LOCALLY AFTER MICHAEL

As the lifeguards in Bradenton Beach got ready to begin their day Thursday, there was hope that the high winds and surf would disperse the red tide.

But as midday approached on Coquina Beach, those hopes were dashed.

William and Rita Postino of Bradenton were two of the few people on the beach around 9 a.m. on Thursday.

“I collect shells, and we come out here two or three times per week,” said Rita Postino. “There are more people

here than yesterday watching the waves.”

She said the red tide was not as noticeable as the water rose at high tide and covered a lot of beach.

Thursday there were few dead fish on the beach.

At the Coquina Beach Café, Mark and Kathy Biscontine, of Bradenton, said the water covered the old groins that normally were buried by sand.

They said surfers were out, and they came close to the groins because they were not visible from the water.

Lifeguard Chelsea Hart guided a utility vehicle down the beach around 10:30 a.m. There were a few more people on the beach, but the irritation and smell of red tide were increasing. She said they use masks when it gets too bad. An Army veteran, she was a lifeguard in Volusia County on Florida’s East Coast before coming to Manatee County to work the beaches five years ago.

“The beach has a little deeper slope to it, but I don’t think too much sand washed away yesterday,” she said.

“There were some pretty intense waves yesterday.”

Hart said conditions were a “double red” Wednesday, meaning nobody was allowed in the water.

For the people who are on the beach to save lives, the red tide outbreak has been especially rough.

RED TIDE: WHAT SCIENTISTS KNOW

Florida red tide (Karenia brevis), a type of harmful algal bloom, is the

BEACH BEAT ANNA MARIA

10/6, lost property, Sandbar restaurant, 100 Spring Ave. The complainant said he lost his New York driver’s license, and he needs I.D. to board the plane back home. The deputy gave the complainant a case card.

9/30, lost property, 851 North Shore Drive. The waste and recycling cans were missing.

10/8, possession of marijuana and paraphernalia, trespassing on a construction site, 700 block of North Shore Drive, The deputy found the defendant on the construction site, and a search produced a small amount of marijuana and paraphernalia. He was arrested.

BRADENTON BEACH

10/4, theft, Circle K, 2513 Gulf Drive N. Somebody looted the air pressure machine, taking an undisclosed sum of money.

10/4, Marchman Act, Moose Lodge, 110 Gulf Drive N. Police responded to a report of an inebriated customer causing a commotion. The officer took the person into custody under the Marchman Act and to a treatment facility.

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41

Michael causes slight beach erosion “(Anna Maria Island) beaches fared very well with this storm overall, especially along the beaches from mid-Island to the north end. The waves certainly overtopped all of the sandy beaches but after the storm passed, wave action had the effect of leveling out the beaches on a gentle slope down to the waterline. Many low-profile dunes were overtopped as well, with a minor loss of sea oats, but overall conditions recovered well.

At Coquina Beach on the south end,

noticeable erosion occurred, almost to be expected as this stretch is one of our most active erodible beaches on the entire Island. We are working with FEMA and the Army Corps of Engineers to bring back a major beach renourishment project to the Island in the spring of next year to rebalance sand losses encountered with Hurricane Hermine and Irma combined.” Charlie Hunsicker, director of the Manatee County Parks and Recreation Department

result of uncontrolled algae growth in optimal conditions, including salinity, sunlight and nutrients such as nitrogen and iron, the latter carried on winds from the Sahara desert across the ocean and deposited in the Gulf.

Blooms produce neurotoxins called brevetoxins in the water, turning the Gulf’s light greenish-blue water to dark reddish-brown, killing fish, manatees, dolphins, sea turtles and even a whale shark earlier this year.

The darker water reduces the amount of sunlight that passes through it, affecting organisms on the sea floor that need sunlight to live, according to research at the University of South Florida College of Marine Science in St. Petersburg. The algae also can deplete oxygen in the water.

Red tide toxins in the water can become airborne with wind and wave action, causing respiratory problems, especially for people with asthma, emphysema, COPD or other chronic respiratory diseases. Red tide toxins affect the nervous system, and, when inhaled,

they cause respiratory irritation including coughing, sneezing and a scratchy throat and can trigger asthma attacks.

Red tide toxins also can accumulate in oysters and clams, which can lead to neurotoxic shellfish poisoning in people who consume contaminated shellfish.

Seafoam during a red tide is highly concentrated in toxins; don’t let children or pets play in it.

Red tide continues to seriously impact Florida tourism businesses. It reached Anna Maria Island on Aug. 3, but coastal Gulf communities to the south began experiencing red tide a year ago this month, and the bloom now covers 150 miles of Gulf coastline.

While not unprecedented in its duration, this bloom is unusually persistent, according to NOAA forecasters, who predict that coastal communities are likely to continue to experience the effects of the ongoing bloom, noting that the size of the bloom changes constantly, and is patchy – not every beach is affected every day.

RETRIBUTION: Sought for sea grape destruction FROM PAGE 40

"We can't continue tojust allow it to happen," Titsworth said, fearing that the situation would continue to be repeated if no further action is taken by city leaders.

City Attorney Patricia Petruff said she would have to investigate to see what action can be taken at this point. She suggested that commissioners also consider potential uses for the Fourth Avenue right of way now that it has been cleared.

Prior to Kaleta clearing the property, Petruff said the right of way was impassible due to vegetation.

The stop work order has been lifted on the property and McGuinness said Kaleta has reached an agreement with the

Fourth Avenue now looks like a war zone."

Judy Titsworth City commissioner

DEP to replant the sea grapes on the right of way, the sea oats on the western edge of the property and create a buffer between the dune line and the planned residential development.

“What he’s offering isn’t even a token,” Commissioner Pat Morton said of the plan to replant some of the destroyed

vegetation. Morton added that as a “habitual offender of city code” Kaleta should be “put in his place.”

Though several options for prosecution were suggested by commissioners, Petruff said it would take time to determine legally what the city’s prosecution options are and how strong of a case could be brought against Kaleta for the damage. She agreed to work with Mayor Bob Johnson and HBPD officers to determine what the best course of action will be. In the meantime, commissioners reached a consensus to write a letter reporting the incident to the state licensing board so that the issue is on record when Kaleta’s construction license comes up for renewal.

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SPORTS

OCTOBER 17, 2018

Youth soccer takes to the pitch for another season

BY MONICA SIMPSON SPECIAL TO THE SUN

The eight- to 10-year-old age group is a tight three-team league with Planet Stone currently on top with a record of 2-1-1 Ugly Grouper is right behind having played an additional game and having one more loss. Progressive Cabinetry’s fight hard attitude gives it a current record of 1-2-2 Team Planet Stone and Progressive Cabinetry met head-to head last Tuesday night. The defensive battle ended the first half of play with the score 1-1.

After 12 minutes of play in the first half of the game, both teams took the field for what would be a scoreless second half.

Putting the second tie in the record book, Planet Stone proved there are contenders in the fall soccer season.

Playing back-to-back games, Progressive Cabinetry could not keep up with the offensive attack of Team Ugly Grouper. Ugly Grouper dominated the field ending the game with the score 3-0.

In a role reversal, Ugly Grouper’s second game of the night was a challenge against Planet Stone. The third game of the night ended with Planet Stone taking the win with three goals.

The 11- to 13-year-old league has a clear leader early in the season with Bins Be Clean undefeated for the time being. Slim’s Place has a 1-1 record, while Wash Family Construction plays with determination looking for their first win.

Bins Be Clean won both of its games last Tuesday night, scoring two goals against Slim’s Place and four against Wash Family Construction.

In their head-to-head, Slim’s Place took the win against Wash Family Construction. Both teams worked hard on the field, having already played one game. The defense of Wash Family Construction could not stop the offensive attack of Slim’s Place, losing the game 3-6.

With four more weeks of regular season play, each of the six teams face off each Tuesday night leading to the championship games on Wed., Nov. 14.

MONICA SIMPSON | SUN

Clockwise from above, Ava Harlan supports her teammate for Team Planet Stone against the Progressive Cabinetry defenders Magness Rollins and William Pakbaz. Harlan comes on strong against Pakbaz. Progressive Cabinetry’s Duncan Cloutier moves the soccer ball with Jack Whiteside for Planet Stone hot on his heels.

SUN SCOREBOARD TUESDAY, OCTOBER 9, 2019 – YOUTH SOCCER 8- TO-10-YEAR-OLD LEAGUE Progressive Cabinetry Planet Stone

1

1

Ugly Grouper 3 Progressive Cabinetry 0 Planet Stone 3 Ugly Grouper 0

11- TO 11 13-YEAR-OLD LEAGUE Bins Be Clean Slim's Place

2 0

Wash Family Bins Be Clean

0 4

Slim's Place Wash Family

6 3

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OCTOBER 17, 2018

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43

Skullywag now a diesel beast The Anna Maria Island Privateers raised money to replace the original engine from the Ford truck that serves as a base for the parade ship.

BY TOM VAUGHT SUN STAFF WRITER | tvaught@amisun.com

HOLMES BEACH – If you’ve been around the Anna Maria Island Privateers’ ship, Skullywag, lately, you might have heard a deeper sounding engine. The venerable symbol of Anna Maria Island’s pirate’s life has gotten an engine transplant The Privateers found a used International DT466 inline, 6 cylinder, diesel engine that came with an Allison transmission. According to Privateers' Captain Jamie Van Deusen, the engine had led an easy life before they got it.

“This engine came out of a water truck that was being retired by the place of employment of one of our

members,” Van Deusen said in an email. “It has very low hours on it and should last for the foreseeable future.”

Van Deusen said it took just over three weeks to remove the old engine and transmission and install the new ones.

“The work was done by one of our members, John Gates,” Van Deusen said. “He is a diesel mechanic and donated his time to making the switch.”

After raising money for the drive train transplant, they got lucky, Van Deusen said.

“We did a couple fundraisers but most of the money we raised for it was in two grants from the Chamber’s Trolley grant program, he said.

“That said, the engine, transmission, and labor to replace them, all cost us nothing.”

The engine and transmission were donated by the company that was retiring the water truck. They wanted to remain anonymous for now. Gates donated all the hours it took to remove and replace the engines and transmis-

sions.

“The money that was granted to us by the Chamber is now being used to make other repairs on the Skullywag, such as a new fore deck, new sound system and soon a new generator,” he said. “That money will also be used to replace some of the broken and worn wood around the ship, making her both prettier and, most importantly, safer for riders and spectators alike.”

The Skullywag was finished in midJanuary, 2000 to replace their trailer ship, which had to be towed.

“She took her maiden voyage to Gasparilla as The Mystic Lady,” Van Deusen said. “She was never properly commissioned, so in July of 2007 she was officially commissioned the Skullywag honoring the late Jim Hungerford, whose pirate name was Skully.

Jim was instrumental in getting the Skullywag built.”

It was built over a school bus frame, and a Ford pickup body supplied the controls for the driver.

TOURISM: New campaign set to launch FROM PAGE 20

Anna Maria Island and Longboat Key, according to the county’s marketing agency, Aqua.

The cure for ailments like wanting more family time, needing a break from work or seeking a suntan is a vacation prescribed by a “doctor” who details the symptoms of the ailments on three videos that soon will be available at https://www.bradentongulfislands.com.

The campaign will include a sweepstakes with prizes such as beach vacations.

The county’s previous marketing campaign was Craft Your Own Vacation.

VISIT FLORIDA HELPING RED TIDE COUNTIES

Manatee County’s TDC is eligible for Visit Florida’s $500,000 Tourism Recovery Grant Program for Red Tide to assist counties affected by red tide, Visit Florida representative Jen Carlisle told the TDC. Grant funds will assist the TDC with increasing visitation once red tide has subsided through advertising, direct mail, brochures, website development and other related projects.

Grant applications will be

“We ought to start pounding on the table. We’ve got to get with it.”

Ed Chiles TDC member

accepted until the red tide has subsided, she said.

BLUE COMMUNITY

“Red tide is a naturally-occurring phenomenon. Of that there is no doubt,” TDC member Ed Chiles said, adding that there also is no doubt about what feeds it.

Addressing environmental issues including harmful algal blooms like red tide and bluegreen algae, shoreline restoration, seagrass, stormwater management, septic systems, sewage treatment and others is vital to tourism, he said.

“We ought to start pounding on the table,” Chiles said. “We’ve got

to get with it.”

With that in mind, the TDC unanimously recommended that Manatee County commissioners use $25,000 in tourist tax funds to hold two training seminars on the Blue Community One Planet Living program at the Studio on Pine Avenue in Anna Maria this fall and winter.

The program will detail methods to increase tourism profits while protecting the environment, according to promoter Dave Randle of the University of South Florida.

“I think it is something that can differentiate ourselves,” Chiles said. “This is about Anna Maria Island being recognized internationally for what we’ve done,” such as Green Village on Pine Avenue.

IN OTHER BUSINESS:

The TDC voted unanimously to recommend that Manatee County commissioners approve up to $5 million in tourist tax funds to improve drainage in the parking lot at Coquina Beach, a county park.

The project is estimated to cost $5.94 million, with other agencies contributing the difference.

Bradenton Beach reduced permit fees for the project from $30,000 to $500.

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FUN IN THE SUN

Across 1 Beauty queen's topper 6 Standoffish 11 Irish folk dance 14 Naysayers 15 "Z: The Beginning of Everything" star Christina 16 Santa __ winds 17 *Easy-to-read character 19 "Real World" channel 20 Triangular Indian pastry 21 Skinny fish 22 Buzzing insect 23 Luxury bag monogram 24 *Cruise stop 28 Like much Scotch 30 Purchase at Lowe's 31 July 4th nonstarter 34 Kagan of the Court 37 "Grr!," say 40 *Microsoft Outlook service 42 Freight weight 43 *FaceTime alternative 44 1988 film farce fish 45 Asian part of Egypt 47 Assist 48 Goes to seed 50 "Enchanted" fantasy film girl 52 *Emphatic typeface 56 Patriots' org.

59 Stool pigeon 60 Put a spell on 61 Decline to participate 64 Cigar refuse 65 Parting words suggested by all or part of the answers to starred clues 67 Peg for a round 68 "Grr!"

69 "Tomorrow" musical 70 Slip up 71 Cozy spots 72 Rent-a-car choice Down 1 File folder projections 2 Mosaic technique 3 Molecule parts 4 Cough drop name sung in ads 5 Seeks answers 6 "__ you listening?"

7 Soda bottle size 8 Four pairs 9 Spotted wildcat 10 Evergreen tree 11 One-pot New Orleans dish 12 Major chip maker 13 Chairperson's order keeper 18 Place for a campaign button 25 "Waiting for Lefty" playwright 26 Archaeologist's find 27 Fail suddenly, with "out" 29 Desserts in Little Italy

Answers to 10-10-18 Crossword Puzzle.

31 Morning drops 32 Actress Thurman 33 Longtime "CBS Evening News" anchor 35 "There's __ in team" 36 Building add-on 38 Hudson Riv. tech school 39 Went first 41 Worshiped star 46 "Iron Chef Gauntlet" host Brown 49 Devious plan 51 San __: Texas city, familiarly 52 Steaming mad 53 Law enforcement shocker 54 Overflows (with) 55 Yank in Yemen, for short 57 No longer lost 58 Saint __: Caribbean island 62 School bake sale orgs.

63 In that case 65 They're related 66 Cards checked at the gate, briefly

OCTOBER 17, 2018

OCTOBER 17, 2018

CLASSIFIED

ANNOUNCEMENTS

AUTHORITY ONE SERVICES. Residential/Commercial/Vacation Rentals & Construction Cleaning.

Also Power Washing, Windows, Paver Sealing & Roof Cleaning.

Ask about your Senior Citizens Discount Call 941-251-5948 or 941565-3931

BEACH YOGA ON Saturdays & Sundays at 8:30am at the end of Pine Ave by the Sandbar Restaurant by donation. www.thriveyogafit.com FACE PAINTER/PORTRAIT ARTIST Island student artist, reasonable price for parties, events, and special portraits. Call/text Lillian 210-380-9691 THE BEST VOLUNTEER position on the island. The AMI Historical Museum needs docents and bread makers. Call Lynn at 813758-3234 or lbrennan47@ gmail.com ROSER FOOD BANK needs donations of cash and non-perishable food. Donations boxes are located at the Church, Moose Club, and Walgreen’s.

BOATS: SALES & RENTALS 2008 MAKO 204cc 150 Suzuki 450 hours T-Top. EZ Load Trailer.

Lift Kept, One Owner $23,000 Call 941-7268414

CARPET CLEANING QUALITY COUNTS. CARPET cleaning. Upholstery cleaning. Tile & grout cleaning. Island's favorite cleaner. Manatee Chamber Member. Great price/free estimates. Call 941-7561082

CLEANING SERVICE TOTAL HOME SERVICE CLEANING : Residential, Commercial & Rentals.

Professional and Reliable. Call 941-756-4570 THOMPSON CLEANING SERVICE CommercialResidential-Marine.

Island Based Company.

Seasonal Deep Cleaning-Weekly-Occasional.

Call for Free Estimate.

317-908-9483

Call us today! 941-778-3986

COMMERCIAL SALES

WAREHOUSE: 9300 sq ft possible Machine Shop with Heavy Duty Elect. Or Car Storage, So many Possibilities. Near SRQ Airport. $629,000 RESORT: 13 UNITS $4,999,000 Bradenton Beach. Island Real Estate Alan Galletto 941-232-2216

COMPUTER SERVICES EMPIRE COMPUTER SERVICE Computer problems fixed in your home or office. The fastest friendliest service around. Serving the Island since 2004. Call 941-739-6424

EMPLOYMENT EXPERIENCED NAIL TECH to take over clientele at established Longboat Key salon. Call Irina 941-3879807.

PT TOUR GUIDES NEEDED. If you are a people person, love food & Anna Maria then send us your bio! Previous guide experience a plus but not required. info@ keyculinarytours.com HELP WANTED. FULL/PART TIME. Island Discount Tackle at 5503 Marina Drive, Holmes Beach. Apply in person and ask for Jonny

FISHING CHARTERS

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

GARAGE, MOVING, RUMMAGE & YARD SALES ROSER THRIFT SHOP Open Tuesday, Thursday 9:30am-2pm.,Saturday 10a.m.-1pm. Annex till noon. Donations preferred Wednesdays 9a.m.-11a.m.

511 Pine Ave., Anna Maria Phone 941-779-2733

THE SUN

MULTI-FAMILY GARAGE Sale. October 20, Saturday 8:30am-1pm. Furniture, household, lighting fixtures and much more! 7700 Marina Dr, Holmes Beach.

FENCING, CAN'T GET ANYBODY? Wood, Vinyl. New or Repair. Call Richard. Free Estimates.

941-448-3571 Bespoke Services.

THRIFT SHOP CLOSE OUT SALE! All furniture & Home Decor must be sold. Bay Beach Plaza 10103 Cortez Rd West.

Tuesday thru Saturday 10am-4pm. 941-8127679

LIGHTHOUSE PROPERTY INNOVATIONS LLC State Certified General Contractor (Lic. #CGC 1515821) New Construction, Renovations & Additions. Call 941-266-7500

HAULING SITE CLEAN-UP to trash outs we can handle it all.

Call us for your dumpsters/ trash needs today 941-7538772

HOME IMPROVEMENTS

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

Neil 941-726-3077 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 # CRC1327296.

Call Jerry Kern 941-7781115 www.kernconstructioninc.com GET’R DONE DRYWALL, INC Specializing in Remodels & Repairs. Island Resident for 18 years. Call Neil Cell 941-962-1194 BATH ROOM & KITCHEN REMODELING. Anna Maria Home Accents. 25 years experience. Call 786-318-8585 DECKOUT MASTER CARPENTER Everything Patio & Dock Decking Work Repair, Replace, Maintenance Work, Cleaning, Treatments, New Decks.

Also Handyman/Painting work to home or office.

Call RICHARD Bespoke Service 941-448-3571 Island Resident.

AMISUN.COM

HOME IMPROVEMENT Michigan General Contractor 30+ yrs. experience. Large or small projects. Budget minded knowledgeable tradesman will complete your project start to finish: On Time/On Budget. Call Mike 616-204-8822.

HOME SERVICES HOME REPAIR. Anna Maria Home Accents. 25 years experience. Call 786-318-8585 GK HOME & PERSONAL SERVICES *Homewatch Service *Handyman Service *Landscaping & Irrigation Work *Pre and Post Tenant Cleanouts *Storm Board Up's ANYTHING you need help with give me a call!

Local, Reliable and Professional 508-221-7486 THE HARDWOOD STOP Flooring installation services; Laminate, hardwood, vinyl and tile. Bathroom and shower. Virtually dustless FLOOR REMOVAL License and insured FREE ESTIMATES 941-227-0041 www.thehardwoodstop. com DRYWALL, PRESSURE WASHING, Painting, Handyman, Roofing Coating. Total of 80 years experience.

Call 941-565-9446. Ask for Dave

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 SHELL DELIVERED AND spread $55/yd. Hauling all kinds of gravel, mulch, top soil with free estimates. Call Larry at 941-795-7775, "shell phone" 941-720-0770

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

LEGAL NOTICE NOTICE OF PUBLIC SALE: NORMS TOWING gives Notice of Foreclosure of Lien and intent to sell these vehicles on 11/28/2018, 09:00 am at 1855 63RD AVENUE E. BRADENTON, FL 34203, pursuant to subsection 713.78 of the Florida Statutes. NORMS TOWING reserves the right to accept or reject any and/or all bids.

1FAFP66L1YK120258 2000 FORD 1FMDU34E9XZA61068 1999 FORD 1GCCS1943W8147488 1998 CHEVROLET 1GKDS13S522354204 2002 GENERAL MOTORS CORP 1ZVFT84N975262194 2007 FORD 2FMDA58413BA75775 2003 FORD 2GCEK19T731248788 2003 CHEVROLET 3B7HC13Y6TG182689 1996 DODGE 3C4PDCAB4HT599441 2017 DODGE 3G5DB03E04S511197 2004 BUICK 5N1ED28T4YC553048 2000 NISSAN 5NPEB4AC8DH688936 2013 HYUNDAI JH2PC4044BK400447 2011 HONDA JM1CR293090351080 2009 MAZDA KNDUP131746549589 2004 KIA NM0LS6AN2DT136054 2013 FORD SAJDA01N31FL92299 2001 JAGUAR WAUDH94F88N037029 2008 AUDI

LOST & FOUND LOST WHITE GOLD 18 carat wedding band on Anna Maria Island on beach near Sandbar Restaurant. Call 352-484-4040 if found.

LOST ON AMI near the curve at Bradenton beach in the gulf a small red ricoh underwater camera and a size 14 gold wedding band of 25 years. reward if found. Has very sentimental pictures that I cannot duplicate the camera had a half of a lanyard attached to it and on the clip of the lanyard was my wedding ring. Call 205-223-1548

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LOST THICK STERLING Silver Ring between the Moose and Beach House Restaurant. Call 941-2431444

MOVING & STORAGE MARTIN’S MOVING YOUR Island movers! Offering dependable, competitive rates. No hidden costs. 941-809-5777.

TWO MEN and a TRUCK. Movers who care. Local and Long distance. www. twomen.com Call 941-3591904. We sell boxes!

PAINTING & WALLCOVERING PAINT! PAINT! AND MORE 28 years of experienced interior/exterior custom painting. Pressure cleaning, drywall repairs and texture finishes. Many Island references. Please call Neil for free estimates.

941-812-0507 “WIZARD OF WALLS” Established 1980 Prompt quality service.

Paperhanging/removal Faux finishes. Interior painting. Mary Bell Winegarden 941-794-0455 PROFESSIONAL PAINTING SERVICES. Prompt & Reliable. Island Resident.

Quality Workmanship.

Interior/Exterior. Also minor repairs & carpentry. Free written detailed estimates. Bill Witaszek 941-307-9315 BAYSIDE COMMERCIAL PAINTING. David Paduani Call 941-5659446 or Larry Zimmer 941-224-8123 Licensed & Insured DONALD PERKINS PAINTING LLC fully insured. 30 years experience. Many Island references. Call 941-7057096

PERSONAL SERVICES LOVING HEARTS PET CARE will take care of your pets like my own. $10/hr, 2 hours minimum. Also General House/Office Cleaning $15/hr. 20+ years experience. Windows, Laundry, Lawn care. Call Martha 989-916-5902

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CLASSIFIED

PETS

NO NEED FOR Doggie Daycare. I can walk your dog, exercise, Pet taxi to Vet or Groomer. Loving attention. Lots of cuddling. Mary Walsh 941-405-2496

POOL SERVICES FOUR SEASONS POOL SERVICE AND CHEMICAL SERVICES. Certified Pool Operator. Residential/commercial. Chemical Service Licensed & Insured. Call Dennis Clark 941-737-5657 COLE'S TROPICAL POOL SERVICE Call Cole Bowers for all your pool maintenance needs! Affordable and Dependable!! 941-7131893

PRINTING CUSTOM DIGITAL PRINTING "Your printing dream to reality" Specializing in Dye sublimation Printing.

Graphic Design. Performance Active ware. Logo Design. Call Rhonda 330-550-4847

PROFESSIONAL PRESSURE & WINDOW WASHING AUTHORITY ONE CLEANING : Residential, Commercial, Construction and Vacation Rentals . Also available Power Washing, Roof Cleaning and Windows.

Call 941-251-5948

REAL ESTATE HOMES & CONDOS FOR SALE

FROM THE LOW $300’s. Only minutes from the beach, this new active adult community is perfectly located just south of Manatee Ave, off Village Green Pkwy.

Perfectly designed, open 2BR or 3BR/2BA plus den & 2CG floor plans.

Luxurious amenities, pool, spa, gym, pickle ball and fenced-in dog park. HOA only $209/ month. Models open daily. Contact us 941254-3330 www.MirabellaFlorida.com

Call us today! 941-778-3986

INCREDIBLE NEW CONSTRUCTION Home 407 Pine Ave! Prime location to shops, restaurants, bay and beach! $2,295,000 Call Charles Buky Coldwell Banker 941-228-6086

CANAL FRONT HOMES Holmes Beach - Key Royale GULF FRONT CONDOS Gulf Place, L’Plage, Vista Grande & MORE. Island Real Estate ASK Alan Galletto 941-232-2216 INVESTOR'S DREAM only 4 houses from the beach, adorable 2BR/2BA cottage North End for $599,000. 2017 income=68K CASH FLOWS. Call Kathleen White Island Real Estate at 941-773-0165.

AnnaMariaSales.com PERICO BAY CLUB turnkey furnished updated 2BR/2BA condo minutes from AMI. Screened lanai with water views, new A/C and split floor plan for $249,000. Call Kathleen White Island Real Estate at 941-773-0165.

AnnaMariaSales.com LOOKING FOR A highly motivated real estate broker to buy or sell your next home? Darcie Duncan, Broker Duncan Real Estate a lifelong island resident bringing success to her customers for 28 years. Proven track record brings you results! 941-725-1589

RENTALS: ANNUAL

2BR/2BA GROUND LEVEL Villa near Blake Hospital. Very clean unit in quiet area. November 1st move in. 1st, last & security $1300/mo.

Background & application fee required. Contact Ed DUNCAN REAL ESTATE 941-737-6320 www.teamduncan.com ANNUAL RENTAL and CONDOMINIUM Association management serviced by (2) offices open 7 days a week! Contact junew@ islandreal.com – 941-3451295 - Island Real Estate of Anna Maria Island, Inc. 2BR/2BA GROUND LEVEL in the UTC area. $1500.

1st, last, sec dep. 1BR/1BA GROUND LEVEL in Bradenton Beach. $1200 1st, last, sec dep. No Pets. Call A Paradise Realty. 941-7784800 ANNUAL RENTAL 1BR/1BA Large back yard, huge shaded common area.

First, Last & $1000 security deposit. No Dogs $1295/ mo. Call 941-705-7463 HOLMES BEACH, large room for rent; furnished/ TV, utilities/cable included.

Call 941-201-2388 after 5 pm

OCTOBER 17, 2018

ANNUAL RENTAL, PERICO Bay Club, 2BR/2BA, 1468 sq.ft. under air, 3 wall mounted TVs. Lots of amenities - pools, spa, club house, tennis courts, gym, etc. No smoking, Application required, $1700/month plus security, Available Dec.1, 2018, call 603969-6840 for information.

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

ANNA MARIA ISLAND, Fl Condos. Pool beach access, fully equipped $650-$800/ wk Redekercondos.com 941-704-7525

SEASONAL RENTALS AVAILABLE: Spring, Summer and Fall. CITY OF ANNA MARIA 2BR/2BA Bay Front.

HOLMES BEACH 2BR/2BA 400’ to Gulf Bay. Horizon Realty of Anna Maria 941-778-0426 kringco@ tampabay.rr.com GREAT RATES! Weekly, Monthly. 3BR/2BA NW Bradenton. Call Grace 941-201-2190

HOLMES BEACH 1.5 BLOCKS to Beach.

Completely updated 2BR/2BA. Available December 2018 thru April 1, 2019. $4500/mo Nelson & Associates Real Estate. Call 863-6401864 2BR/2BA HIDDEN LAKE. January-April Ground level, Garage, Gated.

10 minuets to Island. $3200/mo. Call 941778-9486 BRADENTON 2BR/2BA CONDO Ground level, 2 miles from Gulf. Completely upgraded. No Smoking/No Pets.

Available November thru May 2019. 4 month minimum $2350/mo utilities included. Call Rick 336-848-3094 STUDIO FOR RENT on beautiful Anna Maria Island. Had cancellation for 2018/2019 winter season.

Very private, walk to beach.

Available monthly from December 15 thru March 15. $1700/mo. Sorry no pets. Call 908-914-1182.

Pictures available.

TRANSPORTATION AMI TAXI metered-on-callcards accepted. Airport: Tampa $95, Sarasota $40, Clearwater $85, Orlando $165. Call 800-301-4816. amitaxi4u@gmail.com, www.amitaxi.com

ANYTIME TRANSPORTATION to all airports, appointments, casino, cruises, etc. Tampa $65. Sarasota $30. Pets welcome. Very dependable. Reasonable rates. Contact Jeanne.

941-779-5095 ADMIRAL TOWN CAR Professional chauffeur, taxi prices! Airports (1@ $75, 10 $150 to Tampa), Appointments anywhere.

Credit cards accepted. Phil 941-320-1120 admiraltowncar@gmail.com, Licensed & Insured

www.amisun.com

OCTOBER 17, 2018

BUSINESS & SERVICE DIRECTORY COMPUTER SERVICE

HOME IMPROVEMENT

THE SUN

Call today to place your ad: 941-778-3986 MOVERS

HAULING

PAINTING

HOME IMPROVEMENT

TRANSPORTATION HOME SITTING / PET SITTING

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www.amisun.com

OCTOBER 17, 2018