- Named Best Florida Newspaper In Its Class -
VOL 21 No. 2
October 21, 2020
JOE HENDRICKS | SUN
Sabrina Dumdei and Zach Winton were found dead inside this Bradenton Beach triplex, above, on Saturday. Investigators examine the balcony at the scene, top right. Splatters of blood could be seen on a chair, bottom right, outside the apartment.
Possible murder-suicide under investigation The deceased couple had a recent history of domestic disputes. BY JOE HENDRICKS SUN CORRESPONDENT | jhendricks@amisun.com
BRADENTON BEACH – A concerned father found his daughter and her roommate dead in their home on Saturday afternoon in what police say could be a case of murder-suicide. Bradenton Beach Police responded to a call yesterday around 2:40 p.m. at 2514 Avenue C to find the bodies of Sabrina Marie Dumdei, 37, and Zachary
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John Winton, 34, in what they described as a “gruesome crime scene.” “We’re working a suspicious death investigation. A possible murder-suicide is what it appears to be at Dumdei this time, but the investigation will be going on for quite a while,” Det. Sgt. Lenard Diaz, of the Bradenton Beach Police Department, said this morning. “This is probably the Winton most gruesome crime scene I’ve ever worked
FIND ALL things matrimonial in The Sun’s Wedding Guide. 22-23
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– the worst in 37 years that I’ve ever seen,” said Diaz, who is leading the investigation. “It’s going to be really hard to put together what occurred, what the chronological events were that led up to the actual deaths. Going through the crime scene and photos, I’ll try to put something together, but it’s going to be speculation because there’s no witnesses and nobody saw anything.” The Manatee County Sheriff’s Office Crime Scene Unit and the District 12 Medical Examiner’s Office are also participating in the ongoing investigation. Diaz said he would attend the autopsies on Monday and may be able
to provide additional details afterward. There are no signs of an additional person or persons being involved in the deaths, he said. “We arrested him in September for domestic violence,” Diaz said, referring to an Aug. 31/Sept. 1 incident at the Bradenton Beach triplex involving Winton and Dumdei. “I’m still trying to get ahold of the people who just bought the house so we can make arrangements for the families to go in and grab their stuff,” he said. SEE INVESTIGATION, PAGE 25
BRADENTON Beach Police Chief
Sam Speciale to retire. 3 ROGER the mannequin finds
true love. 24
CROSSWORD 33
Anna Maria Island, Florida
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OCTOBER 21, 2020
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OCTOBER 21, 2020
Chief Speciale sets retirement date BY JOE HENDRICKS SUN CORRESPONDENT | jhendricks@amisun.com
BRADENTON BEACH – Bradenton Beach Police Chief Sam Speciale says he will retire in 2021. On Oct. 9, Speciale presented Mayor John Chappie with written notice of his retirement plans. “Mayor Chappie, barring any unforeseen circumstances, after 35 years of service I am officially notifying you of my intention to retire from the city of Bradenton Beach Police Department on October 8, 2021,” Speciale wrote. The date Speciale chose to retire will mark exactly 35 years since he joined the police department in 1986. “It’s just time. I’m leaving on the same day I started,” Speciale told The Sun last week, when discussing his plans. Speciale said he’ll be 64 years old when he retires and he and his wife, MaryAnn, plan to divide their time between Bradenton Beach and their cabin in Georgia. Lt. John Cosby is the next highest-ranking member of the
JOE HENDRICKS | SUN
Bradenton Beach Police Chief Sam Speciale, above, plans to retire in October 2021. Sam Speciale joined the Bradenton Beach Police Department in 1986, right. Bradenton Beach Police Department and is the likely front-runner to succeed Speciale.
THE SUN
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HBPD receives more money for beach patrol HOLMES BEACH – City officers patrolling the Manatee County-maintained beaches in Holmes Beach will have a little more compensation this year. During an Oct. 13 meeting, Mayor Judy Titsworth and Chief Bill Tokajer presented commissioners with a newly updated interlocal agreement for the HBPD’s services to patrol the county beaches and Kingfish Boat Ramp. This year’s agreement increased to $46,412, a marked increase from the $15,000 offered the previous year and the $10,000 paid in fiscal years prior. Not wanting to count on an increase in compensation before the agreement was presented, $15,000 was included in the city’s budget for fiscal year 2020-21 which began Oct. 1. Commissioners voted four to one to accept the new contract with Commissioner Jim Kihm voting against it. Kihm said he finds the compensation offered in the interlocal agreement “woefully lacking versus the amount of dollars we put in.” In contrast to the agreement offered to Holmes Beach, Kihm said the city of Bradenton Beach receives $125,648 for beach patrol. Tokajer pointed out that Bradenton Beach has a dedicated officer for beach patrol all day every day along with a larger county owned parking area to keep safe. In contrast, Holmes Beach officers respond to calls at the public beach and patrol both the parking lot and the beach as time allows. Kihm said he estimates the city spends about $130,000 each year patrolling the beach. Tokajer said the additional funds are a step in the right direction but not enough to cover the city’s costs. “It’s a good number but not a great number,” he said.
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ISLAND NEWS
IN BRIEF
Masks still required in Holmes Beach Holmes Beach police officers may not be able to write a ticket for people violating the city’s mask ordinance but they can trespass them from city owned and private property. During an Oct. 13 meeting, Mayor Judy Titsworth said masks are still required in Holmes Beach when indoors or unable to social distance. Thanks to an order by Gov. Ron DeSantis, the mask ordinance cannot be enforced by writing citations, however, Titsworth said anyone found violating the ordinance inside a city-owned building will be trespassed from the property. She added that any business owner/manager in the city can also call the police to have violators removed from the property. The Holmes Beach mask ordinance is not set to expire until January 2021.
Help plan the new Cortez Bridge The Florida Department of Transportation is looking for a few interested community members to join the Cortez Bridge Aesthetics Committee. Members are expected to meet five times or more during the design process for the new high-rise bridge to help determine how the bridge and approaches will look, from colors to the style of the bridge and more. Interested parties are asked to contact Roxann Lake at roxann.lake@dot.state.fl.us or call 863509-2990.
Join the parks committee Holmes Beach city leaders still need one more person to join the Parks and Beautification Committee for a twoyear term. Committee members meet at 10 a.m. on the first Wednesday of the month October through May and help to plan and maintain the city’s greenspaces. While commissioners voted unanimously to accept the application of resident Mary Catherine Meloncon to a full member position on the committee, with a term expiring Aug. 1, 2022, an alternate position still remains vacant. To apply to be apart of the Holmes Beach Parks and Beautification Committee, contact the city clerk’s office at 941-708-5800 ext. 221 or email deputyclerk@holmesbeachfl.org. Applications must be received at city hall no later than Oct. 30.
AMI Chamber swings for scholarships The Anna Maria Island Chamber of Commerce will host and hold its 21st annual fundraising golf tournament on Friday, October 23rd. The tournament will be played at the IMG Academy Golf Club in Bradenton. “There has been overwhelming support of this great event benefiting the AMI Chamber’s scholarship fund,” AMI Chamber Vice President Cathy Pizzo said. A total of 76 golfers – four per hole and one foursome on the putting green – will tee off at 12:30 p.m. in a shotgun start. “Many chamber members and other local businesses have been extremely generous donating raffle prizes for what is sure to bring much excitement to the day. Thank you sponsors, supporters, golfers, volunteers, donors, and IMG for your support of this fabulous community event for such a great cause,” Pizzo said. For more information about this year’s tournament, call 941-778-1541 or email Pizzo at cathy. pizzo@amichamber.org
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OCTOBER 21, 2020
Boat speed zones considered at bridge
Traffic from a new marina converging with two boat channels bring safety into question under the Manatee Avenue bridge. BY CINDY LANE SUN STAFF WRITER | clane@amisun.com
Increased boat traffic may cause state officials to slow boating speed limits under the Anna Maria Island Bridge in the Intracoastal Waterway. The Manatee County commission voted Tuesday to ask the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC), which regulates boat speeds, to look into the issue at the request of Sgt. Russell Schnering of the Manatee County Sheriff’s Office Marine Unit. Schnering wrote county officials in July that the area should be made a slow speed zone, noting that most other area bridges are already designated slow speed zones. After witnessing several near-collisions of boats speeding in the area, he asked that the county request the FWC to review boating safety conditions to determine if evidence exists to warrant regulation. “The concern is the area has no speed restrictions currently and a new marina has been built with a channel intersecting the ICW on the northeast side of the bridge; across from that is the channel leading to Kingfish Boat Ramp, northwest of the bridge. This
CINDY LANE | SUN
The Intracoastal Waterway at the Anna Maria Island bridge, also known as the Manatee Avenue bridge, may soon have slow speed zones for boats. confluence of channels has made it dangerous due to the restricted visibility of the bridge itself,” he wrote. The Sheriff’s Office also received a copy of a letter requesting the review from a concerned boater who has experienced two near-collisions in the last two years. Dennis Vitton, of Palmetto, wrote the FWC in June about his concerns. “On two occasions over the last two years, we have encountered two incidents that I believe to be a serious safety issue with the Anna Maria Island Bridge as the result of the lack of a slow no wake speed limit, as most bridges do have,” he wrote. In one case, a motorboat sped so
close to his sailboat under the bridge that the wake nearly caused Vitton’s mast to hit the bridge, he wrote. In another case, a motorboat turned in front of his sailboat at a high rate of speed, cutting him off. “I am requesting that you seriously consider designating the area north and south of the Anna Maria Island Bridge as a slow no wake zone to reduce this significant safety hazard,” he wrote. The FWC is expected to solicit boater and stakeholder input through its review process prior to reaching a decision if it acts on the requests.
Stone crab season opens; crab festival canceled Commercial stone crabbers in Cortez are breaking a leg hauling in their catch during this first week of the 2020-21 stone crab season, but there will be no Cortez Stone Crab and Music Festival next month. Organizers cite the same reason as the Florida Institute for Saltwater Heritage (FISH), which last week canceled the annual Cortez Commercial Fishing Festival due to concerns about the coronavirus pandemic. So far, the stone crab catch is small, said Karen Bell, of A.P. Bell Fish Co. in Cortez, adding that the season often improves as it goes along because the crabs move from north to south. This year’s season will be two weeks shorter than previously, closing on May 1 under the
CINDY LANE | SUN
Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission’s new regulations, passed in July in response to the long-term decline in the
stone crab harvest. The change is intended to increase the stone crab population.
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OCTOBER 21, 2020
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A letter to Gov. Ron DeSantis
Floating the camp would eliminate the state’s objection to the stilts that support the building on submerged land owned by the state, making it subject only to boating laws, supporters say. One supporter is Karen Bell, manager of A.P. Bell Fish Co., who has made appeals to Gov. Ron DeSantis (see sidebar) and state legislators to overturn the Oct. 8 demolition order by Manatee
Dear Governor DeSantis, I am writing because I do not know where else to turn. I live in Cortez which is a small fishing village located on Sarasota’s northern perimeter. Cortez is unique in that it is still a working waterfront. Fish houses dot the shoreline where fishermen sell their catches. These fish are shipped all over the U.S. and throughout the world. The history of this community goes back for multiple generations. In the late 1800s, families moved here from the North Carolina coast and began fishing local waters. They brought with them their knowledge of net fishing. Part of that knowledge was the use and care of cotton nets. Cotton nets were the primary gear used to ply inshore waters for different species. And since fish differ in size these nets would have different size meshes (holes) designed to gill targeted fish. A fisherman might have five or six nets in his collection: mullet, pompano, Spanish mackerel, etc. As different seasons would come and go, different nets would be needed. Before cotton nets could be stowed they needed to be dried and limed to protect against rot. Once prepared they would be stored somewhere. And that place was net camps. Net camps were built just offshore of the village in Sarasota Bay. Fishermen would build these with whatever spare material was laying around and basically have a shed over the water. They were out of the way and made pulling a net on and off a boat much easier. At one time Cortez had over
SEE CAMP, PAGE 8
SEE LETTER, PAGE 8
CINDY LANE | SUN
Raymond Guthrie Jr. has called the structure, pictured far right, a net camp, saying it was built on the site of his family’s former net camps, similar to the fishing village’s historic net camp pictured to the left.
Net camp may float to safety Cortez residents continue to prove that where there’s a will, there’s a way. BY CINDY LANE SUN STAFF WRITER | clane@amisun.com
CORTEZ – It may not be able to stand, but, by golly, it will float. The clock is ticking on a 90-day court order to demolish Raymond Guthrie Jr.’s net camp, which he built more than two years ago on pilings on state-owned submerged land in Sarasota Bay.
But residents of the fishing village – some whose families had net camps in the bay back in the day – have come together to support an alternative to demolition. “They will not tear down that camp. I will chain myself to it,” said Capt. Kathe Fannon, who came up with the idea to launch a GoFundMe page to raise $15,000 to build a barge to float the structure. She and other members of the tight-knit village would like to see their own family’s net camps rebuilt someday.
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OPINION
The Anna Maria Island Sun newspaper 3909 East Bay Drive, Suite 210, Holmes Beach, FL, 34217 Phone: (941) 778-3986 email: news@amisun.com | ads@amisun.com | classifieds@amisun.com
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OCTOBER 21, 2020
The Anna Maria Island Sun Staff Publishers Mike Field Maggie Field Editor/CEO Mike Field Layout Ricardo Fonseca Reporters Cindy Lane Joe Hendricks Kristin Swain Columnists Louise Bolger Outdoors editor Rusty Chinnis
LETTERS TO THE EDITOR
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Holmes Beach future - it's up to you
Ad assistant Pamela Lee Classified ads Bob Alexander Graphics Elaine Stroili Ricardo Fonseca Digital/Social Media editor Cindy Lane Accounting John Reitz Distribution Bob Alexander Tony McNulty Connor Field Contributors Tom Vaught Pat Copeland Steve Borggren Monica Simpson
This year's election looms as one of the most important in modern times, both for America and for Holmes Beach. Both are going through major transition periods. Who we elect will have a major impact both locally and nationally. As a 30-year resident of Holmes Beach, I've seen tremendous growth, some good, some bad. One thing is certain - it has seriously affected the lives of every resident and created major problems that have to be addressed. While all candidates for the city commission appear qualified, in my eyes, one stands out head and shoulders above the rest: Kim Rash. I have been his friend for many years, long before he entered the local political arena. Back
then he was constantly talking to all his neighbors and taking their concerns to the authorities. On his own, he spent untold hours listening and caring. No problem was beneath him taking a personal interest. As a commissioner, his record is clear. He got things done. The Holmes Beach noise ordinances and increased enforcement efforts can certainly be tracked to his untiring efforts. On Nov. 3, you have a choice, vote it wisely. Bob McCaffrey Holmes Beach
Rash listens to residents I am writing today to encourage the good citizens of Holmes Beach to re-elect Kim Rash to the Holmes Beach Commission.
Kim has always cared about and worked for the residents of this fine city. He is always in touch with the residents and takes their problems and issues seriously. They have his ear and he is always available to listen and share their concerns. When faced with problems, Kim attempts to present commonsense, pragmatic solutions. Over the years, Kim has volunteered countless time and effort to help beautify and maintain our beaches, and has contributed materials, time and muscle to community improvements. He has always volunteered to help with city-wide cleanups along with countless other acts of good citizenship. Please vote for Kim Rash for commissioner. He listens and works for the residents of Holmes Beach. Toni Kennedy Holmes Beach
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OCTOBER 21, 2020
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Commissioners ready autocycle moratorium Commissioners are considering banning the rental of autocycles in the city along with adding some regulations for the three-wheeled vehicles. BY KRISTIN SWAIN SUN STAFF WRITER | kswain@amisun.com
HOLMES BEACH – Officials here are working towards putting some restrictions on autocycle operations and rentals in the city. The moratorium, which is scheduled to begin as soon as the ordinance passes a final reading and continue until Feb. 1, 2021, blocks businesses from renting the three-wheeled autocycles in the city. The moratorium allows commissioners time to work on proposed legislation governing the operation and rental of the miniaturized vehicles in the city. The autocycles look like tiny cars and two different versions are rented on the Island. One version comes from Robinhood Rentals in Anna Maria and the other from The Toy Barn in Holmes Beach. If the moratorium passes, it won’t affect any existing rental businesses in the city which would be grandfathered in. Commissioners agreed there needs to be some type of regulation for the
vehicles, which can pose a safety hazard due to their low profile in comparison to standard vehicles on the road. Some of the vehicles also can't travel in reverse and have to be manually pushed. Holmes Beach Police Chief Bill Tokajer said he feels the vehicles need some regulation to be operated in the city for safety reasons. Some commissioners had stronger feelings. Commissioner Pat Morton said he feels some of the drivers of the vehicles are not trained properly by the rental
company and drive recklessly, potentially causing harm to themselves and other people. “People use this city like a playground,” Morton said, adding that he’s seen the vehicles traveling along twolane streets side-by-side, appearing to race while also being driven too close to pedestrians. “I think they see it as a beach toy,” Commissioner Carol Soustek said of the autocycle vehicles. “We have enough congestion. I’d like to see some of the
toys off the road.” While the moratorium moves to a first reading at an upcoming regular commission meeting, commissioners also are moving forward with regulation of the autocycles. The draft currently being considered would grandfather in the current businesses renting the vehicles but block any new businesses from coming to the city. It also would prohibit the use of the vehicles on city sidewalks and bicycle lanes.
ON THE AGENDA
HOLMES BEACH
Society Museum, 402 Pine Ave., Anna Maria, 5 to 7 p.m., $5 for members and $10 for prospective members. CDC guidelines will be followed and participation is capped at a 50 person maximum. Reservations required to info@amichamber.org or 941-778-1541. Thursdays in Paradise Stroll featuring local art, music and food, Bridge Street, Bradenton Beach, 5 to 8 p.m.
THURSDAY
ANNA MARIA
10005 GULF DRIVE FOR INFORMATION, CALL 941-708-6130
City hall is open to the public with limited capacity and safety protocols in place. Please visit www.cityofannamaria.com or contact city hall for more information. Oct. 22, 6 p.m. – City Commission meeting Oct. 29, 9 a.m. – Special Magistrate hearing
BRADENTON BEACH
107 GULF DRIVE N. FOR INFORMATION, CALL 941-778-1005
City hall is open to the public with limited capacity and safety protocols in place. Please visit www.cityofbradentonbeach. com or contact city hall for more information. Oct. 21, 1 p.m. – Planning and Zoning board meeting Oct. 22, 9:15 a.m. – City Commission emergency special meeting Oct. 22, 10 a.m. – City Commission special meeting Oct. 29, 9:15 a.m. – City Commission emergency meeting Nov. 4, 9 a.m. – Capital Improvement Plan meeting Nov. 4, 9:30 a.m. – Community Redevelopment Agency meeting Nov. 4, 2 p.m. – Scenic WAVES meeting Nov. 5, 6 p.m. – City Commission meeting
KRISTIN SWAIN | SUN
If commissioners vote to enact a moratorium banning businesses that rent three-wheeled autocycles in the city, the ban won’t pertain to the two businesses that currently rent the devices - Robinhood Rentals in Anna Maria and The Toy Barn in Holmes Beach.
5801 MARINA DRIVE FOR INFORMATION, CALL 941-708-5800
City hall is open to the public with limited capacity and safety protocols in place. Please visit www.holmesbeachfl.org or contact city hall for more information. Oct. 21, 10 a.m. – Code Compliance special magistrate hearing Oct. 27, 6 p.m. – City Commission meeting with work session to follow Nov. 4, 10 a.m. – Parks and Beautification Committee meeting Nov. 4, 6 p.m. – Planning Commission meeting
MARKYOUR CALENDAR October 21 - November 3 The Island Branch Library is open at 40% capacity. Please wear a face mask/covering. The Tingley Memorial Library is open. The Center of Anna Maria Island is open with social distancing and face masks required. The Holmes Beach dog park (Scentral Park), skate park, basketball courts and tennis courts are open. Local preserves are open, including Grassy Point Preserve, Neal Preserve, Perico Preserve and Robinson Preserve. Local beaches are open.
THURSDAY OCT. 22
AMI Chamber October Business Card Exchange, Anna Maria Island Historical
SATURDAY OCT. 24
Saturday mornings at the NEST, Robinson Preserve Mosaic NEST, 840 Ninth Ave. N.W., Bradenton, 9 a.m. to noon. Face masks required.
SUNDAY OCT. 25
Rise and Shine Power Flow Yoga, Robinson Preserve Mosaic NEST, 840 Ninth Ave. N.W., Bradenton 10:30 a.m. to 11:45 a.m., $10 fee payable online or by cash at the door. Bring your own yoga mat. Register at https://parks. mymanatee.org/wbwsc/webtrac.wsc/search. html?primarycode=110006 or call 941-7425923 ext. 6042 for more information.
TUESDAY OCT. 27
Farmer’s Market, City Pier Park, 101 N. Bay Blvd., Anna Maria, 8:30 a.m. to 2 p.m.
OCT. 29
Thursdays in Paradise Stroll featuring local art, music and food, Bridge Street, Bradenton Beach, 5 to 8 p.m.
SATURDAY OCT. 31
Happy Halloween! Saturday mornings at the NEST, Robinson Preserve Mosaic NEST, 840 Ninth Ave. N.W., Bradenton, 9 a.m. to noon. Face masks required.
SUNDAY NOV. 1
Beach market, Coquina Beach, 2650 Gulf Drive S., Bradenton Beach, 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Rise and Shine Power Flow Yoga, Robinson Preserve Mosaic NEST, 840 Ninth Ave. N.W., Bradenton 10:30 a.m. to 11:45 a.m., $10 fee payable online or by cash at the door. Bring your own yoga mat. Register at https://parks. mymanatee.org/wbwsc/webtrac.wsc/search. html?primarycode=110006 or call 941-7425923 ext. 6042 for more information.
TUESDAY NOV. 3
Election day. Polls open from 7 a.m. to 7 p.m. Farmer’s Market, City Pier Park, 101 N. Bay Blvd., Anna Maria, 8:30 a.m. to 2 p.m.
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OCTOBER 21, 2020
LETTER: To Governor DeSantis FROM PAGE 5
20 of these structures. With the invention of monofilament, the need for such structures was reduced. Monofilament nets did not require the care or protection like cotton nets. Over time most of the camps fell apart and were never rebuilt. Today Cortez is down to two net camps. One is due south of Star Fish Company, the other south of A.P. Bell Fish Company. Both have been rebuilt multiple times over the years. The more easterly one was rebuilt by a local non-profit in the late 1990s. The other was rebuilt by local fishermen after storms destroyed it. In 2018 the west camp, known locally as the Guthrie Camp, was rebuilt by Raymond Guthrie Jr. It had been his grandfather’s camp and as mentioned before it had been rebuilt at least three times that I personally recall. When Mr. Guthrie rebuilt the camp this time it was in the same spot as the one before it. In fact, the salvageable pilings were reused. For most of the village this was nothing unusual. Just like the east one having been rebuilt, it was just another camp being repaired. But unfortunately, there are now people residing in the village who do not know or appreciate our history. One of these residents (who moved here from Canada) called an island newspaper (The Islander) to complain about the camp rebuild. A reporter from that paper then called DEP to inquire about it. DEP recorded that call as a complaint and it has been a fight ever since.
CAMP: May float to safety
For some reason, rather than DEP recognizing the historic significance of these last two structures (Cortez is on the National Register of Historic Places which mentions net camps in its content), they have been hellbent on having it torn down. Even after showing them aerials from the 1920s, 1940s, 1950s and 1970s that prove the structure was there, DEP has not relented. I personally spent over $30,000 hiring an attorney to intervene as I own the upland property. I finally had to withdraw my suit as I could not afford to continue fighting. I am asking for your help. These camps are iconic to this community. Artists come from all over the world and have memorialized these structures in their work. I do not understand how my state is not supportive of our history. Cortez today is not only a working fishing village, it is a tourist destination. We have managed to blend both industries by developing a symbiotic relationship between the two. Finally, a group of us decided as a last resort to reach out to you. We understand that you and everyone are dealing with a lot considering the pandemic and its effects on our lives and economy, but we do not want to lose this part of our heritage. Please, please help us protect these last two remaining net camps in Cortez. Time is of the essence. Mr. Guthrie appeared in court last week and was given 90 days to remove the camp. This is wrong and we need your help. Sincerely, Karen Bell
FROM PAGE 5
County Circuit Court Judge Edward Nicholas. Bell intervened in vain in the lawsuit brought successfully by the Florida Department of Environmental Protection against Guthrie, who has so far ignored both DEP and court orders to demolish the building. Bell unsuccessfully claimed ownership of the submerged land under the 1921 Butler Act, which awarded submerged lands to upland property owners who made improvements, including structures, to the submerged lands. Another supporter is the Manatee County Commission, which voted to keep the net camp in 2018.
However, the state agency, which has jurisdiction, won its claim against Guthrie in court last year, arguing that the state owns the submerged land upon which Guthrie built the structure. DEP investigated the case based on a complaint from The Islander newspaper. Guthrie claimed ownership of the submerged land, saying that he built the net camp where his family once had net camps. The structures were historically used by commercial fishermen to clean, dry and store nets; only one other net camp still exists off Cortez. The GoFundMe page was not yet active as of press time. For more information, visit Keep the Camp on Facebook.
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6696 Cortez Road 941.792.0077
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1525 51st Avenue East 941.721.7773
BRIDGE ST. PIER Bradenton Beach 941.778.AMOB (2662)
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OCTOBER 21, 2020
ONE ISLAND. ENDLESS POTENTIAL.
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OCTOBER 21, 2020
Commissioners finalize 2021 legislative priorities After making some minor changes, Holmes Beach commissioners agreed unanimously to send their legislative priorities to the city’s lobbyist in Tallahassee. BY KRISTIN SWAIN SUN STAFF WRITER | kswain@amisun.com
HOLMES BEACH – Commissioners are ready for the upcoming 2021 Florida state legislative season. After some discussion during an Oct. 13 work session, commissioners readied their final list of priorities to send to the city’s lobbyist in Tallahassee. Some issues that the lobbyist will argue on the city’s behalf to legislators include: • Vacation rentals – The city opposes additional limitations on local governments’ authority to regulate vacation rentals and supports the
repeal of the state’s preemption of the regulation of short-term rentals. The city also supports changes to existing state law that permit local governments to modify their existing shortterm rental regulations which were grandfathered in under state law. • Water and air quality – The city supports legislation providing for recurring funding sources for programs and projects to assist in mitigating the effects of red tide and other harmful algae blooms. • Local government revenue – The city supports legislation expanding the use of tourist/bed taxes for public safety and infrastructure projects. Commissioners added that they also support a distribution formula of the funds proportionally based on the amount contributed to Manatee County. The 2021 Florida State Legislative session is scheduled to begin meeting on March 2.
JOE HENDRICKS | SUN
During the pandemic, Gov. Ron DeSantis has allowed local governments to meet remotely.
Local governments must resume in-person meetings Local governments must begin meeting in person again as of Nov. 1 according to an executive order issued by Gov. Ron DeSantis. On Sept. 30, DeSantis issued Executive Order 20-246, an order that provides a final extension of a previous order and subsequent renewals that allow city and county governments to meet remotely rather than in person due to the COVID-19 pandemic. Beginning Nov. 1, a majority voting quorum must be physically
present at an official city or county government meeting where votes occur and decision making takes place. The order does not apply to election canvassing boards. Throughout the pandemic, the three local governments on Anna Maria Island have used Zoom videoconferencing technology and teleconferencing to varying degrees to conduct city commission and other official city meetings.
OCTOBER 21, 2020
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THE SUN
Increases coming for parking violations Moving to a first reading is an ordinance increasing parking violation fines in the city of Holmes Beach.
Lighting up residential districts BY KRISTIN SWAIN SUN STAFF WRITER | kswain@amisun.com
BY KRISTIN SWAIN SUN STAFF WRITER | kswain@amisun.com
HOLMES BEACH – Commissioners agreed unanimously to move a draft ordinance raising parking fine violations to a first reading. During an Oct. 13 work session, Holmes Beach Police Chief Bill Tokajer presented commissioners with a plan to increase parking violations in the city. After Tokajer made his case for the increase in fine amounts, Commissioner Jim Kihm suggested a few changes, namely increasing the proposed violation amount for permit fraud to a maximum of $250 and increasing the fine amount for impeding emergency vehicle access to the beach to $250. Here are all of the proposed fine amount increases: • Increase a general parking violation from $50 to $75; • Establish a $250 fine for using a fraudulent parking permit; • Charge a $15 late penalty to be charged 10 days after the parking fine is due instead of the current five days; • Increase illegal handicap and Purple Heart parking violations to $250.
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If approved, the fine for illegally parking in a Purple Heart or handicap parking space in Holmes Beach will be raised to the state maximum of $250. Tokajer said that out of the 2,920 parking tickets Holmes Beach police officers have written year to date through September, about 100 of those, or 4.5%, were written to residents with 41 of those voided as a onetime resident education opportunity. “Residents don’t get a lot of parking tickets in Holmes Beach,” he said.
Commissioner Carol Soustek said that she hopes that the larger parking fine amounts will discourage people from parking illegally to go to the beach, shrugging off the current $50 fine as a parking fee. The draft ordinance goes before commissioners for a first reading at an upcoming city commission meeting.
HOLMES BEACH – Commissioners are considering changing the city’s land development code to allow for lighted signs in the A-1 district where motels are sprinkled in with residential properties along Gulf Drive. While commissioners are not considering allowing backlit signs or LED message board signs, which won’t solve the city’s legal problems with the owners of the Anna Maria Beach Resort, they are considering allowing signs for easy identification of properties at night that are a maximum of 6 feet in width and have one exterior light fixture for illumination. The proposed change to the LDC would allow for the light to only point downward over the sign to reduce light pollution and adversely affecting nesting sea turtles on the beach. Commissioner Jim Kihm said he’d like to look at the possibility of requiring all sign lighting in the beachfront district to be turtle friendly, requiring red or amber bulbs during sea turtle nesting season. Signs in the district would not be able to be used for advertising or promotion, only for the identification of the hotel or condominium complex. Commissioners also are considering enacting a height restriction for signs and a brightness limit. A draft ordinance is scheduled to come back before commissioners at a future work session before it will go to a first reading and before the planning commission for approval of consistency with the LDC, then a final city commission vote.
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Planning commission member still sought Rather than appoint someone to fill the unexpired term of planning commissioner Scott Boyd, Holmes Beach City Commission Chair Jim Kihm pushed the decision to a future city commission meeting to allow more people to apply for the position. Planning commissioners meet at 6 p.m. on the first Wednesday of every month. They are responsible for making sure that city ordinances are compliant with the land development code and comprehensive plan. Currently, planning commissioners are working to update the comprehensive plan. Planning commissioners serve three-year terms. Boyd’s term is scheduled to expire on July 1, 2022. Alternate planning commissioner Gale Tedhams applied to move up to the full board member position. If commissioners accept her as Boyd’s replacement, Tedhams’ term as alternate, expiring July 1, 2023, will need to be filled. To apply for the planning commission, contact the city clerk’s office at 941-708-5800 ext. 221 or email deputyclerk@ holmesbeachfl.org. Applications must be received at city hall no later than Oct. 30.
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OCTOBER 21, 2020
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OCTOBER 21, 2020
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New sign coming to the library BY KRISTIN SWAIN SUN STAFF WRITER | kswain@amisun.com
‛S YOUR COMFORT ZONE? WHERE
HOLMES BEACH – The Island Branch Library is getting a new sign and this one will be back lit with an LED message board for library and public service announcements. Commissioners were presented with the proposition to exchange the current sign for a more updated one by Grant Vosburg of the Robson Corporation, a sign company out of Sarasota. Vosburg said he’s working with the county and grant funding to replace the sign. Using the federal grant funds, he added that the sign must be purchased and installed by Dec. 30. He said that the new sign will feature static messages that will change periodically and will be on a timer so that it will turn off at night. It will be placed in the same location as the current library sign and is planned to be about the same size. Vosburg said it would be up to commissioners as to what time the light turns on and off, how bright it is and how long the static messages stay on the message board before they change. Commissioners agreed to have the sign lit from 7 a.m. to 9 p.m., the same hours that a similar sign is lit at Anna Maria Elementary School, allowing the mayor and city planner to choose how brightly the sign will be lit and how long messages will be displayed before they change.
KRISTIN SWAIN | SUN
SUBMITTED | CITY OF HOLMES BEACH
The current sign at the Island Branch Library is being scheduled for replacement. The Island Branch Library will soon have a new roadside sign. This mock-up shows how the new sign at the Island Branch Library will look.
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OCTOBER 21, 2020
OCTOBER 21, 2020
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Beach 'n Rides Rentals: Easy and fun
BY LOUISE BOLGER
BEACH ‘n RIDES &
SUN STAFF WRITER
So, you can’t decide what to rent while you’re visiting the Island or entertaining your houseguests. Bikes are so been there done that; golf carts are fun and a definite option; but the latest exciting new rental option is Ebikes, and there’s a place where you can rent either a golf cart or an Ebike. Just off the Island, at Cortez Road and 122nd Street in the village of Cortez, is Beach ‘n Rides & Rentals. Terry Pansiera and his nephew, Jeff Pansiera, are partners in Beach ‘n Rides and have opened the location in the village as well as one at Cortez Road and 86th Street. In 2014 the Pansiera’s opened their 86th Street location designed to rent, sell, repair golf carts and sell parts and accessories. They have a wide range of golf carts for sale both new and used to accommodate four, six and eight passengers. Their newest model cart is called Bintelli Beyond, with an all-aluminum frame and uprights perfect for our humid environment, tending not to easily rust. They make renting a golf cart really easy and were among the first cart
RENTALS 941-251-7916 www.beachnrides.com info@beachnrides.com All Major Credit Cards Accepted • 8607 Cortez Road W., Bradenton (golf carts) Monday-Friday: 9 a.m. – 5 p.m. Saturday: 9 a.m. – 2 p.m. LOUISE BOLGER | SUN
Jeff and Terry Pansiera offer a variety of fun ways to see the Island.
Closed Sundays • 12208 Cortez Road W., Cortez (ebikes)
rental companies to deliver to the Island. They will deliver to Anna Maria, Longboat Key and West Bradenton for free, and carts can be rented for as few as four hours or up to several months. They also have both electric and gas
models and all are street legal. If you want your golf cart rental delivered to their second location at 122nd Street and Cortez Road they will deliver it SEE BEACH N RIDES, PAGE 16
Monday – Friday: 9 a.m. – 5 p.m. Saturday & Sunday: 10 a.m. – 5 p.m.
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OCTOBER 21, 2020
BEACH ‘N RIDES: Fun and easy FROM PAGE 15
there, where it can be legally driven from that point to the Island. In 2017 the Pansiera’s opened their store in Cortez Village, with a product new to our area for both rentals and sales. Electric bicycles - or Ebikes - are power assisted bikes that can be either operated as a conventional bike with gears, totally power or low throttle, or peddle assisted. Since they
are classified as bikes, there is no license required and they are subject only to the traffic laws of a conventional bike. There are a variety of Ebikes to rent, including Ebike tricycles, and a large supply of new and some used Ebikes to purchase. Most Ebikes can be purchased for $2,000 or under, and rental rates are very affordable. Although Beach ‘n
Rides does not rent conventional bikes, they do provide a repair service for bikes. Check out their website with photos and rates for both golf carts and Ebikes. Time to get yourself and your guest off the beach and into something new. Whether you’re Ebiking or golf carting, Beach ‘n Rides & Rentals will make it easy and fun. Give it a try.
CINDY LANE | SUN
Turtle season crawling to a close
CINDY LANE | SUN
FISH seeks grant for bridge project CORTEZ - The Florida Institute for Saltwater Heritage (FISH) is one of five finalists competing for one of three $114,000 grants provided by Impact100 SRQ. The grant would fund a connective bridge project on the 95-acre FISH Preserve east of the historic Cortez fishing village. The east side of the preserve is not accessible to visitors due to a tidal creek installed in the last phase of restoration. The grant would pay for the construction of two bridges that would connect the east side of the preserve to the west side, and for educational trail signs to help visitors understand what they are seeing as they walk the newly-installed shell covered trails. A new FISH Preserve entrance sign also will be designed and installed, as well as two benches and an informational kiosk to welcome visitors. The FISH Preserve protects 33 species of native plants, 39 species of birds, 27 species of fish, 18 species of marine mammals and reptiles and three types of soil.
Sea turtle nesting season is nearly over, ending officially on Oct. 31, but sea turtles aren’t the only turtles on the beach. Gopher tortoises, which are land dwellers, are coming out of their sandy holes to survey the new habitat provided by the ongoing beach renourishment project, also scheduled to end Oct. 31, according to Suzi Fox, director of Anna Maria Island Turtle Watch and Shorebird Monitoring. The tortoises are joined by shorebirds that are also enjoying the meals hiding in the new sand, pumped from offshore of Bean Point at the north end of the Island. Until Oct. 31, it’s important to follow turtle lighting laws to allow any hatchlings in both known and undiscovered nests to make it safely to the Gulf of Mexico, Fox said.
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CARES Act funding applications reopen Nonprofits, small businesses and residents can all apply for a portion of $70 million in Manatee County CARES Act funding. BY KRISTIN SWAIN SUN STAFF WRITER | kswain@amisun.com
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MANATEE COUNTY – Applications are reopening for local nonprofit managers, small business owners and residents financially affected by the COVID-19 pandemic to request CARES Act funding through the county. CARES Act funding applications for nonprofits open Oct. 19 with Recover Manatee Safety First Small Business Grant Program applications opening Oct. 21 and Manatee CARES Housing Assistance Program applications opening Oct. 28. The nonprofit funding is only
available to expand an existing program for food distribution, including holiday meals, to assist people in recovering from the pandemic. Only food distribution related expenditures are being considered for this round of funding. A $5,000 grant for the purchase of personal protective equipment and other items needed to reopen safely is also open to applications for nonprofits. Nonprofits that previously received funding through this grant are invited to apply again. The Recover Manatee Safety First Small Business Grant Program is in its third round and offers up to $50,000 in funding for Manatee County small businesses employing up to 500 people. The funding includes a $5,000 to fund safe operations and up to $45,000 for reimbursement of documented COVID-19 related business losses. Applications are not open to those
businesses who’ve already received CARES Act funding. The Housing Assistance Program provides eligible Manatee County residents with rent and mortgage assistance up to $10,000. Anyone affected by the pandemic with a household income at or below 150% of the area’s median income, $80,400 for a single person or $114,750 for a four-person household, is eligible to apply for funding. Out of the $70 million in federal CARES Act funding expected to be distributed by Manatee County leaders, more than $6 million has been distributed so far for community health and well-being programs with an additional $10 million given to economic recovery programs, including nonprofits, small businesses and in rental and mortgage assistance. For more information, or to apply, visit www.mymanatee.org/ manateecares.
Dondanville theft charges dropped The State Attorney’s Office has dropped the second-degree felony charge of grand theft filed against Daiquiri Deck manager Tabatha Dondanville. Dondanville was arrested Sept. 9 and accused of stealing $20,000 in cash from a purse left behind by Daiquiri Deck customer Jasmine Bryant on Labor Day, Monday, Sept. 7. The purse was originally returned minus the cash, but the $20,000 was later returned to Bryant in
hopes that the police would not be involved. Upon her arrest, Dondanville admitted to Bradenton Beach Police Department Det. Sgt. Lenard Diaz that she took the cash. The charges were dropped on Oct. 8 after Bryant informed the state attorney’s office that she no longer wished to cooperate with the prosecution efforts. According to court records, no further legal action will be taken and the case is now closed.
MANATEE COUNTY SHERIFF’S OFFICE | SUBMITTED
Daiquiri Deck manager Tabatha Dondanville no longer faces felony charges.
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OCTOBER 21, 2020
941.779.2337 9:00 AM - 10:00 PM 7 DAYS A WEEK 5344 3 GULF DRIVE, HOLMES BEACH
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OCTOBER 21, 2020
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OUTDOORS
OCTOBER 21, 2020
The land of shining water Reel Time RUSTY CHINNIS
N
oontootla is a word derived from the language of the Cherokee Nation in northeastern Georgia. The translation, “land of shining waters,” perfectly describes Noontootla Creek, an 11-mile tributary of the Toccoa River that originates in the mountains near the southern terminus of the Appalachian Trail on Springer Mountain. The small mountain stream is managed as a “natural” stream and holds the healthiest population of “bright” rainbow and brown trout I have encountered in the east. Last week I had an opportunity to fish the creek where it passes through Noontootla Creek Farms, a thousand-plus acre property that was converted from a large farm operation and private hunting club. The property is now open to the public and features excellent trout fishing, quail hunting and an impressive sporting clays course.
The property has been on my list of places to fish for a few years, but it was this trip to Georgia when it all came to fruition. I booked with Unicoi Outfitters in Helen, Georgia just outside of Sautee Nacoochee where our cabin is located. I’ve fished with owner Jimmy Harris and his excellent staff of guides over the years and depend on them to set me up with a knowledgeable guide. I’ve always been pleased, and this trip was no exception. I fished with my friend Bob Seegar from Blue Ridge, Georgia. Bob and his wife, Judy, relocated to North Georgia after many years in Longbeach Village and we have made it a ritual to go fishing when we reconnect in Georgia and Florida. Our guide for the day was Chuck Head, a third-generation area native who guides fly fishers in Colorado during the summer. We met Head at 7:30 a.m. and were on the stream fishing at 8:00 a.m. Seegar fished a double nymph under a strike indicator while I elected to try a dry dropper, a dry fly that doubles as a strike indicator for the nymph. It didn’t take long for me to convert as Seegar had landed three fat rainbow trout before
SUBMITTED
The author prepares to release a brightly colored Noontootla SEE REEL TIME, PAGE 21 rainbow trout.
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OCTOBER 21, 2020
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Local action heats up despite wind CAPTAIN DAVID WHITE
The fishing around Anna Maria Island has been stellar the last week. I was on my annual month vacation in Blue Ridge, Ga., and also Montana. Although it was an amazing trip, I’m happy to get back to fishing. I fished offshore midweek, catching mangrove snapper up to 25 inches, red grouper up to 30 inches, yellowtail snapper up to 22 inches and blackfin tuna up to 20 lbs. It was stellar all the way around. But this wind has picked up significantly and we won’t be offshore for a while. Inshore, snook and redfish have been plentiful. But for our anglers trying to score some dinner, Spanish mackerel have been the ticket. Although cobia have been popping up here and there, they aren’t guaranteed by any means. And kingfish are great for smoking, not great if you’re in a rental with only a stove. So the Spanish mackerel are the go-to fish. Live pilchards are plentiful, so it’s been easy to score the
CAPTAIN DAVE WHITE | SUBMITTED
James Todoran Jr., of Fort Wayne, Ind., shows off a blackfin tuna in the 20-lb. range caught with Captain David White of Anna Maria Charters. The fish ate a yellowtail jig on a 4000 size reel! Crazy fight! day’s bait. We hope this wind subsides soon and we can mix it up a little bit.
CAPTAIN RICK GRASSETT
Anglers fishing Sarasota Bay with me, out of CB’s Saltwater
Outfitters on Siesta Key, had some action with trout, blues, tripletail and more on flies and
DOA Lures recently. Spin fishing anglers caught and released trout, blues and jacks on CAL jigs with a variety of tails and DOA Deadly Combos while fly anglers scored with a Clouser fly fished on a sink tip fly line on several trips recently. With stone crab traps in the water, tripletail are starting to show up. Spin fishing anglers also caught and released a couple of small tripletail in the coastal Gulf on DOA Shrimp. Fish the coastal Gulf for false albacore (little tunny), Spanish mackerel and tripletail when conditions are good. Fishing the deep grass flats of Sarasota Bay is also a good choice for action with a variety of species including trout, blues and Spanish mackerel. Shallow water action for reds and snook should turn on as the water cools. Our natural resources are under constant pressure from red tides fueled by industrial, agricultural and residential runoff, freezes, increasing fishing pressure and habitat loss and degradation. Please limit your kill, don’t kill your limit.
REEL TIME: The land of shining water FROM PAGE 20
I had a hit. That’s why Head originally suggested the double rig under an indicator. The stream’s fast-flowing water required split shot to get the flies down to the bottom where the trout feed on the aquatic stages of various insects. A dry fly wasn’t buoyant enough to support the added weight. After re-rigging, I was into fish immediately. What made these fish special was their beauti-
ful colors and strong fight. They very closely resembled the bright native trout found out west. I almost always fight trout by hand, but after a couple of break-offs, I started clearing the line and fighting them on the reel. This experience was a perfect opportunity to test my new Hardy 5-weight fly rod and reel. The smooth drag and fast rod made the fight a blast. Seegar is fairly new to fly casting,
especially since our times on the water are widely spaced, but has always proved a quick study. This was no exception and in the eight hours we fished, we both had what was arguably our best fishing trip ever. Over the course of the day, we landed close to a dozen rainbow trout, each in the 20- to 24-inch range. This was one of those days that fishermen know to savor as the combination of camaraderie,
weather and fishing made for a memorable experience, one I look forward to repeating. If you’re ever in this part of the world, I highly recommend contacting Unicoi Outfitters to experience this and their other excellent trout fishing waters. Check them out on their website at unicoioutfitters.com. The land of shining waters will not disappoint you.
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Beachfront, award-winning rooms As long as you’re getting married on the beach, why not stay on the beach? Bungalow Beach Resort, 2000 Gulf Drive N., Bradenton Beach, has won the Top Romance award in the US by tripadvisor.com, and it is located right on the beach – the perfect place to escape between the rehearsal dinner, the ceremony and the reception. With the Gulf of Mexico just steps from your lushly landscaped cedar bungalow, it’s a great place for an extended stay after the bride and groom leave for their honeymoon. If the bride and groom want to continue their stay, Bungalow Beach Resort, which also won the 2013 Excellence Award from tripadvisor.com, is a very popular honeymoon destination. Originally a group of beachfront army barracks, each of the Bungalow Beach Resort units retains the old Florida charm that is Anna Maria Island, with modern conveniences inside. And you will stay in luxury with personal touches like baskets of embroidered towels, flowers and candy. Whether you’re getting married or part of the wedding party, pick awardwinning Bungalow Beach Resort as your home base where you will cherish those moments when you’re not involved with the ceremony. You’ll want to return when there is nothing to distract you from your stay. Call Bungalow Beach Resort at 1-800-779-3601 or log onto www.bungalowbeach.com.
OCTOBER 21, 2020
OCTOBER 21, 2020
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Happy 1st Anniversary to Sarah Jordan Foland and David Brothers who were married on October 12, 2019 at the Snow Hill Country Club in Wilmington Ohio. Aniston Brothers was their flower girl. Sarah's mother, Mary Ann Haines Foland coordinated the ceremony and reception, and also designed all of the floral arrangements in antique vases that belonged to Sarah's grandmothers. Chuck Caudill provided the music for the ceremony and reception. Sarah and David honeymooned on Anna Maria Island. They welcomed their son Remy Kendall Brothers on June 29, 2020. The Brothers family currently reside in Wilmington, Ohio.
Laurie and Pete Donahue, pictured here at daughter Caitlin's wedding on Anna Maria Island, celebrated their 35th wedding anniversary with a trip to Kauai where they honeymooned. Although they reside in Arlington Heights, Illinois, they are honorary Anna Maria Islanders.
Happy 2nd Anniversay to the Wellers! Caitlin Donahue's dream of getting married on Anna Maria Island came true when she and Kyle Weller said "I do" a the St. Bernard Catholic Church, on October 27, 2018. The bride's uncle, Father Scott Donahue, performed the marriage ceremony. The reception was held at the Gulf Drive Café. Music was provided by Chuck Caudill, who sang and performed on ukulele for the first dance. Chuck was also the DJ for their reception. Hair and makeup were by Body & Sol Wedding Salon on location at the Tortuga Inn, where the bride and groom as well as all of their guests stayed. Caitlin and Kyle honeymooned in Australia and New Zealand, before returning home to Arlington Heights, Illinois.
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OCTOBER 21, 2020
CINDY LANE | SUN
Fresh produce is the star of the weekly farmer’s market, above. The farmer’s market takes place at City Pier park in Anna Maria, left.
Farmers market back in business SUBMITTED | MAGGIE PATALL
Roger finds true love Female mannequins across Anna Maria Island are in mourning as the Island’s most eligible inanimate bachelor is taken. Passersby on Gulf Drive may have noticed that Roger the mannequin has some company up on his second-floor balcony. Owner Maggie Patall said that Roger seemed lonely after his return following his recent kidnapping that found him in literal pieces on the beach. Now Roger has a mannequin girlfriend, Gretchen, named for the woman who gifted the female mannequin to Patall. The new couple is dressed up in their Halloween best for the month of October.
The city of Anna Maria’s weekly farmer’s market resumed on Tuesday, Oct. 13 and will continue every Tuesday, weather permitting, through mid-May from 8:30 a.m. until 2 p.m. Featuring fresh produce and other food products, the farmers market takes place under the shade sail at City Pier Park, across the street from the new City Pier. Due to the COVID-19 pandemic, social distancing and facecoverings are required of vendors and patrons. Deputy City Clerk Debbie
Haynes serves as the market manager and she was pleased with seasonal market’s seasonal return. “The market was great. There were no mask issues and the vendors I spoke with were happy with the turnout. Total turnout throughout the day was probably around 200 people. It was a beautiful day too,” Haynes said. Because of the ongoing pandemic, the number of vendors is currently limited, but more vendors may be added as the season progresses and conditions allow.
Chamber networks at Floridays The Anna Maria Island Chamber of Commerce held its Thursday, Oct. 15 networking luncheon at the new Floridays Woodfire Grill & Pub on the mainland side of the Anna Maria Island Bridge along Manatee Avenue. The Chamber will host a member networking event on Thursday, Oct. 22, behind the Belle Haven cottage and under the trees by the water behind the Anna Maria Island Historical Society Museum on Pine Avenue in Anna Maria. The
networking event will be held outdoors and will adhere to COVID -19 safety precautions. The cost to attend is $5 for members and $10 for non-members. RSVPs are required and payment must be made in advance. Please contact info@amichamber.org or call 941-7781541 to RSVP. Tickets are available on the AMI Chamber website, www.annamariaislandchamber.org, where additional information can also be found regarding future Chamber events. AMI CHAMBER | SUBMITTED
Chamber members gathered for lunch at Floridays last week.
OCTOBER 21, 2020
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INVESTIGATION: Possible murder-suicide in Bradenton Beach FROM PAGE 1
The couple who sold the triplex and reportedly closed on that sale on Friday arrived at the crime scene late Saturday afternoon and spoke with officers.
INVESTIGATION UNFOLDS
Diaz, Police Chief Sam Speciale and officers Steve Masi and Devon Straight were among those who responded to the crime scene Saturday afternoon. “We’ve got what appears to be a murdersuicide. We have two victims, a male and a female,” Speciale said, adding that the deceased individuals lived in one of the units and there were no known occupants of the other two units at the time. “The father tried to get in contact with his daughter and was unable to. He came to the house and noticed that she was on the floor. He broke a door window to gain entry and found her on the floor,” Speciale said. From outside the triplex, a blood-stained plastic deck chair could be seen on the balcony deck and bloodstains were visible on the sliding glass door. “Crime scene investigators are here now. They’re going through all the evidence. They’re documenting everything. The medical examiner will then move the deceased so we can get a better idea of what type of wounds and where they’re at,” Speciale said. When asked if the wounds appeared to be from a gun, knife or some other weapon, Speciale said, “We have no idea. All I can tell you is there’s a lot of blood. We’re waiting to find out exactly where the wounds are and what they consist of. We do know their identities and we’ll go from there,” Speciale said. “We’ve had domestic incidents at this location,” he added. Speciale said they could not release the names of the deceased on Saturday because Diaz was still trying to contact a family member of the deceased man. Speciale said he knew the female victim and she had been working at a nearby Bradenton Beach hair salon prior to her death. At approximately 5:30 p.m., Diaz said, “We really don’t know what happened. It’s a rough scene in there right now, so it’s going to be awhile. It’s an ongoing death investigation.” Upon their arrival, members of the Medical Examiner’s Office removed the two bodies from the second story living area shortly after 10 p.m. After the medical examiner’s van departed, Diaz said he was unable to provide any additional details because he was still trying to contact a family member.
RECENT DOMESTIC ALTERCATIONS
Several neighbors told The Sun they heard nothing that indicated a violent altercation on Friday or Saturday, but some noted the couple could often be heard arguing, sometimes loudly.
TRACY ECKERT | SUBMITTED
Friends and loved ones have created a memorial for Sabrina Dumdei outside of the Avenue C home where she perished on Saturday, Oct. 17. Manatee County court records indicate a history of recent physical confrontations between Winton and Dumdei. On July 19, Dumdei was arrested on suspicion of alleged domestic battery stemming from an incident that occurred in Bradenton. According to the probable cause affidavit prepared by the arresting Bradenton Police Department officer, “I responded to 11045-808 Bristol Bay Dr. in reference to domestic trouble. I met with Ms. Sabrina Dumdei and Mr. Zachary Winton, who have been dating for approximately four months and have lived together at this location for approximately three months. Mr. Winton reported that they were arguing while sitting on the porch when Ms. Dumdei threw a can at him. He was struck on the lip and he suffered a small laceration, as well as some swelling. “Mr. Winton stated that he and Ms. Dumdei were then standing on the porch when she began punching him several times in the chest with a closed fist. Mr. Winton did not wish to press charges. Ms. Dumdei was placed under arrest for domestic battery and transported to the Manatee County jail,” according to the affidavit. Court records indicate that on July 23, the charges against Dumdei were dropped by Assistant State Attorney Victoria Gray and no further action was taken. According to court records, Winton was arrested at the same Bradenton address by the Bradenton Police Department on charges of domestic battery on Aug. 10. According to the probable cause af-
fidavit, “On 8/8/20, at approximately 2303 hours (11:03 p.m.), officers responded to the victim’s residence in reference to a battery. On 8/7/20, while inside the victim’s residence, the defendant and victim became involved in a verbal altercation. During the course of the argument, the defendant struck the victim on the right eye with a closed fist in a backhanded motion. “The officers responded to the residence on the listed date and could hear a disturbance. Officers attempted to make contact at the residence but were unsuccessful. As of result of this incident, the victim sustained broken blood vessels to the right eye, as well as a large bruise which extends from the eyebrow to the bridge of the nose and also covers the right cheek. The defendant in this case also sustained a large bruise to the left eye. The victim stated the defendant struck himself in the face after striking the victim as the victim threatened to notify law enforcement,” according to the affidavit. “The defendant stated that at no point did he strike the victim. The victim made no Marsy’s Law request and did not wish to press charges. However, the victim wished to have an injunction filed on her behalf,” the affidavit notes. Winton entered a not guilty plea on Aug. 12 and the charges were dropped by the state attorney’s office on Aug. 24.
DEATH THREAT MADE
According to court records, on Aug. 31, Winton was arrested by the Bradenton Beach Police Department on suspected charges of aggravated assault with a
deadly weapon, tampering with a witness, false imprisonment and domestic battery. The victim’s name and the address where the incident occurred are redacted in the probable cause affidavit prepared by arresting officer Steve Masi. But on Sunday, Diaz confirmed Dumdei was the victim in that incident that occurred at the Avenue C address. According to the probable cause affidavit, “Defendant and victim had been arguing for the last two days, but today victim said it got worse. Victim stated Winton refused to let her leave the house or his sight by threats of violence. She felt confined. Defendant then grabbed her by the face and held a razor knife to her neck and said, ‘Leave and see what happens.’ Victim had a well-founded fear that Winton had the ability to carry out such a threat and that it would take place. “Victim stated defendant would not allow her to use the phone, but only to call his sister, as he hindered or delayed her from making any other calls. Victim finally got away and made the call to 911 dispatch but had to hang up in the middle of the call, as defendant had found her and once again put her in fear of violence. Upon my arrival, defendant was yelling and walking at victim with a large kitchen knife I observed in his right back pocket. Defendant was then issued verbal commands at taser point to back away from the victim. He then complied and was detained. “While detained in the police department, Winton made numerous threatening remarks about what he was going to do to victim when he gets out, such as ‘I will kill her. She gonna pay. If I get charged with felonies, I’ll kill her then myself. I will cut her throat,’ ” according to the affidavit. Winton was charged with three felonies in the incident – domestic aggravated assault with a deadly weapon, false imprisonment and tampering with a witness – and misdemeanor battery, according to court records. On Sept. 9, Winton’s attorney, Jacob Grollman, filed a motion for consensual contact with the victim (Dumdei). That document states Winton had no previous felony charges and no history of physical violence. On Sept. 15, an order was filed granting the motion to lift the no contact order and the status of the pending case remained open as of Saturday. On Oct. 21, 2018, Dumdei was arrested by the Holmes Beach Police Department on suspicion of driving under the influence. According to the probable cause affidavit, Dumdei was also in possession of 21 clonazepam pills contained in a generic white bottle with no attached prescription information. On May 20, 2019, Dumdei pled no contest and was placed on probation for 12 months.
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THE SUN
REAL ESTATE
OCTOBER 21, 2020
Appraisals in the time of COVID
ike everything during the difficult times we’re living in, property appraisals have become one more task to accomplish safely. Not only is it difficult for appraisers to avoid a COVID infection and still do a correct appraisal, it is also difficult for them to establish an accurate property value. Independent property appraisers work for mortgage lenders with the task of determining an accurate property value in order for lenders to proceed with a mortgage approval for a potential buyer. Traditionally this is accomplished with an in-person visit to the home, a series of photos of the property and online research to find comparable properties in the area and what they sold for. COVID has upended much of this system in spite of the fact that lenders still require a full appraisal before approving a mortgage. The appraisal industry, obviously concerned about their appraisers, has mandated protective gear in accordance with COVID protocols including masks and
Castles in the Sand LOUISE BOLGER gloves before entering a property. Most of them would also like the house to be empty of owners and family members so as not to be required to interact with them. In some cases, based on the estimated property value and loan amount, lenders will be satisfied with a desktop appraisal using online research of comparable properties with pictures. Since most real estate listings now have many pictures as well as virtual tours available, appraisers can get a really good look inside and outside the comparable properties and the appraisal property. Drive-by appraisals, used by lenders frequently for properties either already in foreclosure or getting ready for foreclo-
sure, is another appraisal option, however, most lenders will not allow that method for an original mortgage loan. The other issue appraisers are struggling with is the value of a property during a time when values are going up and inventory is very low. Since real estate sales are a lagging number, there could be properties in a pending status that would support an appreciating value, but appraisers cannot use them until the properties are actually closed. This coupled with the fact that there are fewer properties closing because of a lack of inventory is making the job of the appraiser more difficult than ever. If you’re applying for an original mortgage and the appraisal comes in short, you do have a few options. First of all, you could come up with more down payment money, reducing the amount of the mortgage you’re applying for. If you can’t do that, remember that appraisers are never anxious to change their numbers, but if there was an obvious error that could have
had a negative effect on the value you are certainly within your rights to point it out. Also, if additional information is available that was not considered by the appraiser you could attempt to get them to consider it. And as a last resort, there is a complaint hotline provided by the government if you feel that you have really been wronged, but that probably won’t help you get a mortgage approved. Home appraisals have always been more of an art than a science - more so in our current situation. Appraisers are mandated to develop a report that is impartial, objective and represents an independent opinion of the value of the property. Everyone’s job in the real estate industry has become more difficult since March. All the players, realtors, appraisers, exterminators and contractors should be commended for their efforts in accomplishing a job that for the most part needs at least some in-person contact. Stay safe.
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OCTOBER 21, 2020
THE SUN
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Ad-hoc committee to help study environmental issues City leaders are in the early stages of forming an ad-hoc committee to help decide how the city will approach mitigating environmental threats. BY KRISTIN SWAIN SUN STAFF WRITER | kswain@amisun.com
HOLMES BEACH – City leaders want to do something to help mitigate issues affecting water quality and other environmental issues both in and out of the waters around Anna Maria Island. To decide how best to proceed, they’re in the early stages of forming an ad-hoc committee. In a talk with The Sun, Mayor Judy Titsworth said she’s had a few people reach out to express their interest in joining the committee, however the process for application to the committee and member appointments is still being worked out.
The idea for the committee came up when commissioners were asked to help support The Center of Anna Maria Island and assist with a clean water initiative by purchasing several of the mini reefs provided by Ocean Habitats Inc. The reefs will be installed underneath city owned docks and would be tethered underneath the dock by rope and initially float. As the reefs fill with sea life, they become heavier and sink lower in the water. Eventually, the reefs have to be removed from the water and cleaned of the barnacles and other sea life before being disposed of. The reefs have an expected life span of 10 or more years. Several issues were brought up by commissioners in relation to the project including that some of the materials the reefs are made of aren’t biodegradable. The maintenance and eventual removal of the mini reefs also was a concern, as was some uncertainty that the
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reefs are even the best way to help improve water quality around the Island. Titsworth suggested using more eco friendly options, such as seeding clams or scallops to help curb the effects of red tide. Commission candidate Jayne Christenson suggested commissioners look into a concrete based reef from Reef Innovations that would be completely submerged without the risk of introducing additional micro plastics to the water. In addition to looking at ways to bring more sea life to the waterways around the city, committee members also will look at ways to clean the water of pollutants, combat the effects of red tide and blue-green algae blooms, and stop pollutants from running off of lawns and streets to outflow pipes into the bay. Once the committee is formed, members will be working with Director of Development Services Eran Wasserman to suggest solu-
tions for city commissioners to consider, potentially beginning with the mini reefs proposed by The Center. Currently, Wasserman is awaiting information from the Florida Department of Environmental Protection on whether the installation of the mini reefs will require permits. City leaders also are looking into where the mini reefs could be installed other than on docks that are rented, which they fear could reduce the interest of boaters to rent the docks and could cause safety and liability concerns with potential boat damage. Commissioners agreed to await the DEP’s response before moving forward with the mini reef project and voiced support for the formation of the ad-hoc committee to study all of their available options to help improve the natural environment both in and out of the water.
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THE SUN
OCTOBER 21, 2020
New changes to Holmes Beach parks BY KRISTIN SWAIN SUN STAFF WRITER | kswain@amisun.com
HOLMES BEACH – The employees at the city’s public works facility have been busy. During an Oct. 13 commission meeting, Director of Development Services Eran Wasserman gave an update on the projects that public works employees have recently completed. In addition to the recently-installed bocce ball courts at the city field complex, new pickleball courts have been constructed near the playground on the northeast end of the complex. Both the pickleball and basketball courts have been fitted with a geogrid covering to give players more traction. Wasserman said that the geogrid also requires less maintenance than a traditional court surface and is expected to last longer. At city hall, an upgraded generator
KRISTIN SWAIN | SUN
Above, the new pickleball courts located next to the playground at the city field complex are ready for players. New basketball courts, right, have been installed at the north end of the city field complex in place of the existing court. was installed, and a new kitchen is almost completed for Holmes Beach police officers. Wasserman added that grading is being done on Avenue F where the
stormwater infrastructure was recently upgraded. Stormwater infrastructure restoration projects also are continuing in Key Royale.
www.amisun.com
OCTOBER 21, 2020
THE SUN
29
Key Royale golf scores REAL ESTATE ~ 507 “C” PINE AVENUE, ANNA MARIA Located in the Historic Green Village (Behind Hometown Desserts)
Key Royale Club held an OktoberFest scramble on Saturday, Oct. 10, with 52 golfers playing. Playing a Miami scramble, the winning team was Ann Klein, Tom Nelson, Dan Haversten and Andi Saia with a score of 24.5. The long drive was won by Eric Lawson for the men and Debi Wohlers for the ladies. Closest to the pin was won by Ellen Boin for the ladies and Steve Vasbinder for the men. More than 60 members and guests enjoyed OktoberFest food and libations after the event.
MONDAY, OCT. 12 MODIFIED STAPLEFORD
1st Place - Terry Tarras with a score of +5 2nd Place - Larry poppel with a score of +4
TUESDAY, OCT. 13 - LOW NET SCORE Flight A Ellen Boin 31 Deb Wohlers 33
Flight B Sue Wheeler 27 Fran Barford 31 Flight C Mary Wilkie 31 Terry Westby 34 There were three chip-ins for birdies. Two were by Meredith Slavin on holes four and eight, one by Mary Wilkie on seven and also a birdie by Deb Wohlers two.
THURSDAY, OCT. 15 - SCRAMBLE
First place at four under, 28, were Bill DiMenna, Eric Lawson and Scott Mitchell. Second place at three under, 29, were Mike Clements, Tom Nelson and Dave and Deb Richardson.
LOCALLY KNOWN. GLOBALLY CONNECTED. SINCE 1976.
BEL MARE 140 Riviera Dunes Way 1503 Kathy Valente & Gregory Zies, LLC 941-685-6767 A4471685 $1,400,000
COVE SOUND YACHT CLUB 12903 Yacht Club Place Gregory Zies & Kathy Valente 941-779-3081 A4455943 $1,200,000
LONGBOAT KEY 735 Saint Judes Drive S Lynne Callahan 941-720-3278 A4468349 $699,000
LONGBOAT KEY 3416 Winding Oaks Drive Terri Derr 941-356-6694 A4471554 $599,000
HOLMES BEACH 97 52nd Street Hannah Hillyard 941-744-7358 A4468151 $2,350,000
MAINSAIL BEACH INN 103 66th Street 10 Kristi Berger & Deborah Capobianco 941-730-3801 A4452245 $567,125
TIDY ISLAND 51 Tidy Island Boulevard Kathy Marshall 941-900-9777 A4469997 $539,000
BAILEY-DOBSON 701 Gulf Bay Road 1 & 2 Lynne Callahan 941-720-3278 A4470251 $499,000
VILLAS OF HOLMES BEACH 206 52nd Street 3 Kathy Harman 941-900-9828 A4464002 $989,000
MAINSAIL BEACH INN 107 66th Street 12 Kristi Berger & Deborah Capobianco 941-730-3801 A4452254 $870,000
MAINSAIL BEACH INN 101 66th Street 6 Kristi Berger & Deborah Capobianco 941-730-3801 A4452260 $595,000
MARINA WALK ON HARBOUR ISLE 383 Aruba Circle 201 Hannah Hillyard 941-744-7358 A4466540 $570,000
PALM LAKE ESTATES 808 53rd Avenue E 208 Laura Rulon 941-896-2757 A4478827 $115,000
PALMA SOLA BAY CLUB 3431 79th Circle W 101 Pamela Miller 614-632-2801 A4472901 $395,000
NEW CONSTRUCTION
MSC MORTGAGE | MSC TITLE | MS&C COMMERCIAL NEW HOMES & CONDOMINIUMS
SHAWS POINT 7211 19th Avenue NW Laura Rulon & Betsy Hagen 941-896-2757 A4479051 $375,000
888.552.5228 | MICHAELSAUNDERS.COM
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BEACH BEAT BRADENTON BEACH
10/12, petit theft, Anna Maria Island Club, 2600 Gulf Drive N. The victim said his locked bicycle was stolen. 10/14, 3:23 a.m., trespass order, Bridge Street Pier. A homeless male was spotted drinking a beer and the officer said it was illegal and had him throw the beer away. Later, he found the subject sleeping on a bench with a beer. The officer awakened him, told him he was no longer welcome on Bridge Street and gave him a trespass order for one year.
HOLMES BEACH
10/8, driving with a suspended license, 700 Manatee Ave. While on patrol eastbound on 31st Street, the officer heard a diesel-engine truck accelerate rapidly northbound on Gulf Drive. He fol-
OBITUARIES
Carl Larner Parks
Carl Larner Parks, 75, died at home in Bradenton on September 11, 2020. He was a man of many talents. Raised in East Lansing, MI, he excelled in classical piano and pipe organ as a child. At age 12, he won the renowned Interlochen senior division piano competition and was assistant organist at a large local church. He graduated from Michigan State University with degrees in political science and a Masters in Journalism. While stationed at the Army base at Fort Dix, he was a sharpshooter, clerk typist and chaplain’s assistant, also accompanying entertainment personalities at their performances at the base. Returning to the Detroit area, he was a newspaper reporter, political speechwriter, technical writer for automotive companies and championed large pipe organs by giving concerts. His personal style was honed as a member of the Art Deco Society of Detroit. Carl relocated to Bradenton Beach, FL in the late 1990s where he served at many local churches and performed annual pipe organ concerts. He wrote for political campaigns, was appointed to the City of Bradenton Beach Scenic Highway Com-
OCTOBER 21, 2020
lowed it and recorded 70 mph as they went over the drawbridge eastbound. He caught up with the subject at the entrance of the Perico Bay Club, where the chase ended. When he asked for the subject’s license, registration and proof of insurance, he got a Louisiana ID card. When he ran the suspect’s information, he found out the driver’s Louisiana license was suspended, the truck’s registration was expired, and he had two warrants for his arrest. He was handcuffed and ticketed and his truck was towed. 10/10, 8:35 p.m., driving with a suspended license, 600 Manatee Ave. The license plate reader alerted the officer to a vehicle with a unlicensed owner. When stopped, the driver said she was unaware her license was suspended. She was ticketed. Her passengers were too drunk to drive so he told them to get an Uber. 10/11, 2:48 a.m., battery, Anchor Inn, 3007 Gulf Drive. A fight between female patrons of the bar led to violence. Most
of the parties were too intoxicated to make statements and it was late so the complainant was advised to come to the police station when she was sober, which she did. 10/12, 3:42 a.m., DUI and driving with a suspended license, 4100 Gulf Drive. The officer noticed a vehicle being driven in an erratic fashion. When stopped, the suspect “appeared to be in a stupor.” He could not perform a field sobriety test. He was arrested. 10/12, 5:24 p.m., petit theft, 3801 East Bay Drive, Sunbow Bay. A red and white Schwinn mountain bike was stolen from the bicycle rack in the underground parking area of the building. The bike was chained and locked. The thief took the chain and lock too. 10/13, midnight, trespass warning, Manatee Beach, 4100 Gulf Drive. The officer was using a light to patrol the closed beach and found two homeless people known to local authorities sleeping on picnic tables. They were trespassed for a year and took a Monkey Bus out of the area.
10/13, 8:19 p.m., driving with a suspended license, 7400 Palm Drive. The officer stopped the subject for driving without lights on. A computer check showed the driver’s license was suspended. He said he paid some traffic fines recently. The officer seized the driver’s license and vehicle plate and ticketed him. 10/14, 2:25 a.m., Marchman Act, 4600 Gulf Drive. Officers answered a call about a fight and found a woman face down on the grass next to the road. She was heavily intoxicated. Two witnesses said the woman had come to their home intoxicated saying she needed to get away from her husband. She stayed with them until one of the hosts said it was time for her to go home and she got violent, hitting her hostess in the face. EMS was called. The hosts said they did not want to press charges. The subject awakened and gave police her name, but she said she was in Houston. She did not know where she was staying. Police enacted the Marchman Act and took her into custody. EMS took her to Blake Medical Center.
mittee, where he served as chair for many years, and was elected Dean of the local American Guild of Organists to which he donated his vast musical library. Interment will be in Michigan where he is survived by a sister and her family.
career in the restaurant business to support her five children. In 1979, she moved with her family to Fort Myers, then in 1986, moved to Sarasota and and in 2016, to Cortez. Her latest home she called “heavenly” since she could sit on the porch and look at the bay waters and visit with her many friends. For those who knew my Mom, her smile was effortless as were her hugs and laughter, all of which we will always hold as cherished memories in our hearts. Her favorite things to do were trips to New Jersey to see family and especially watching the grandchildren grow up, as well as playing cards and dine-outs with her friends, doing puzzles, and knitting scarves and caps, which she sent thousands of to her grandchildren in NJ, plus doilies and blankets. In the past few years she looked so forward to her friend, Patty, taking her to church and dinner on Saturday afternoon. The family appreciates the kindness and friendships provided to our loving Mother over the years, especially the past four years during which she loved sitting on her porch near the water watching sunsets and people. Memorial Service will be held 9 a.m. on Monday, Oct. 26, at Ss. Peter & Paul the Apostles Catholic Church, 2850 75th St. W., Bradenton, FL 34209 for immediate family and friends. Brown & Sons Funeral Homes & Crematory 43rd Street Chapel, 604 43rd St. W., Bradenton, FL 34209 is in charge of arrangements. The family requests memorial
donations be made to Bishop Animal Shelter, 5718 21st Ave. W., Bradenton, FL 34209 (941-792-2863). Condolences may be made to: www.brownandsonsfuneral.com.
Constance “Connie” Louise Jens Constance “Connie” Louise Jens, of Cortez, passed away Oct. 14, 2020. She was born in Hell’s Kitchen, New York, in 1932. She raised five children, Gloria Weir, of Cortez; Anthony Jens (deceased); Constance Cranmer (Jeffrey), of Manahawkin, NJ; Leo Jens, Plant City; Judith Gutierrez (Luis), of Manahawkin, NJ; and five grandchildren: Ashley, Haleigh, Gehrig, Jason and Louden. Connie is preceded in death by her two brothers, Stanley and John; one sister, Diana. When Connie was three years old, her family moved to North Bergen, NJ for a few years, then she and her sister went into St. Mary’s Orphanage until the age of 16. She left the orphanage and moved back with her mother, finished high school and went to work at a sewing company, saving money to help get her sister out of the orphanage. Connie was married at the age of 20 and soon after began her 50-year
Thomas Foster Tyrrell Thomas Foster “Tommy” Tyrrell, son, brother, uncle and good friend, died October 12th, 2020. He was born on July 10th, 1980, the year his soon to be loved Philadelphia Phillies won the World Series. He lived in Manatee County, growing up with his family and close friends on Anna Maria Island. He was an avid competitive athlete and loved to practice and play ball with his good buddies on AMI and was captain of his basketball team at Manatee HS. If we didn’t mention the passion he had for his Philadelphia Eagles, he would frown down upon us. Fly Eagles Fly! He is survived by his father Michael Tyrrell, his mother Rosemary Fleck, his stepdad Todd Fleck, his sister Tiffany Vreeland, his niece Natalie, his nephew Beau and his good friends. His open heart and his kind, loving spirit will be missed by his family and friends. Online condolences can be posted at Shannonfuneralhomes.com.
OCTOBER 21, 2020
NESTING NEWS Turtle nests laid: 349 (Record: 544 in 2019) False crawls: 450 Nests hatched: 288 Hatchlings hatched: 20,174 (Record: 35,788 in 2018) Nest disorientations: 1
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FWC to host Florida State-Fish Art Contest The Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC), in partnership with Wildlife Forever, will host the Florida State-Fish Art Contest for students in kindergarten through 12th grade. The free contest will award state and national honors and prizes. Florida winners will be selected by the FWC in four grade categories, kindergarten through third grade, fourth through sixth grade, seventh through ninth grade and 10th through 12th grade. State winners will advance to the national competition to be judged for top prizes such as the Best of Show. The deadline to enter is March 31, 2021, so start designing today.
“We are committed to increasing youth participation in freshwater and saltwater fishing through this effort,” said Eric Sutton, director of the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission. “The State-Fish Art program is a unique and creative way to connect to youth anglers and the FWC is proud to be sponsoring the initiative for Florida.” To enter, students from Florida should submit their entry consisting of the following: • An original horizontal 9”x12” piece of artwork featuring any fish from the Official Fish List, a piece of creative writing, no longer than one page, about the chosen species (required
for grades 4-12), and • A Florida State-Fish Art Contest entry form. Participants may mail their entry to: Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission ATTN: Laura Rambo, Florida Fish Art Contest 620 S. Meridian Street Tallahassee, FL 32301 • Or submit photos or a scanned copy of their entry to R3@MyFWC.com. For contest information, entry forms and the Fish On! Lesson Plan, visit www.StateFishArt.org.
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THE SUN
SPORTS
OCTOBER 21, 2020
Ugly Grouper bests Skinny’s Place BY MONICA SIMPSON SPECIAL TO THE SUN
After being shut out last week, the Ugly Grouper adult soccer squad won over Skinny’s Place. Skinny’s Place was hoping to earn their first win of the season, but the hot feet of Chris Scott, Nate Welch and Greg Ross gave Ugly Grouper a win. The tone for the game was set in the first half of the game and continued early into the second half of play. Tough and aggressive play by both sides put Ross in position to take a penalty kick. The goalie for the other team, Hayden Brewer, made the stop, sending the soccer ball sailing behind the net. Taking the corner kick, Ross put the ball in perfect position for another Ugly Grouper goal. On the kickoff after the Ugly Grouper point, Katie Christenson sent the ball off the leg of opponent Chris Culhane past Ugly Grouper keeper Robb Marshall for an own goal. After giving Skinny’s Place a goal, Ugly Grouper came back with the seventh goal of the game from a Welch free kick off the goalie. Despite the goals of Christenson, Chase Diaz and a hat trick by Kevin Bell, Skinny’s Place just could not get the ball past Marshall enough times. Week five of adult co-ed flag football ended with Sandbar and Solid Rock Construction on top of the leader board with 4-1 records with the Sandbar win in the game that put the number one and two against each other on the gridiron. Sandbar’s Chase Richardson threw for three touchdowns to the hot hands of Anthony Mannino, ending the game with a total of eight receptions. On defense, Richardson had two interceptions, one for a touchdown. Solid Rock’s Danny Murphy and Bri Roberts were the big scorers in the game for their team. Along with an interception, Murphy had six catches in the game including one for a touchdown and two extra points nabs, and one interception. Roberts continued her offensive success with two touchdown catches for Solid Rock Construction from brother Tim Shaughnessy. More than midway through the regular season, the Shaughnessy-Roberts
MONICA SIMPSON | SUN
Above, Ugly Grouper’s Nate Welch attacks the soccer ball, rocketing it past the Skinny’s Place defender. Left, going hard to the ball, Ben Sato and Katie Christenson fight for possession for the Ugly Grouper and Skinny’s Place teams last Thursday night.
Sato Real Estate Solid Rock Construction
duo, along with the patriarch of the team, Mike Shaughnessy, fight for another championship to end the season with their veteran squad team.
YOUTH CO-ED SOCCER 11- TO 14-YEAR-OLD LEAGUE WEEK #6
SUN SCOREBOARD TUESDAY, OCTOBER 13 YOUTH CO-ED SOCCER 8- TO 10-YEAR-OLD LEAGUE WEEK #6
Slim’s Place Ugly Grouper
(1-5) 0 (3-2-1) 6
Gulf Drive Café Tidy MD
(2-0-2) 0 (4-1-1) 1
Beach Bums Progressive Cabinetry
(2-1-2) 1 (3-0-2) 5
Miz & Hiz Biz HSH
(0-4-1) 1 (2-3) 3
WEDNESDAY, OCTOBER 14 ADULT CO-ED SOCCER WEEK #4 Skinny’s Place Ugly Grouper
(0-4) 6 (2-2) 8
(3-1) 7 (1-3) 3
Blalock Walters Progressive Cabinetry
(2-1-1) 9 (1-3) 1
Signature Granite Slim’s Place
(2-0-2) 3 (3-0-1) 3
THURSDAY, OCTOBER 15 ADULT CO-ED FLAG FOOTBALL WEEK #5 Sandbar Solid Rock Construction
(4-1) 27 (4-1) 22
Beach Bums Progressive Cabinetry
(2-3) 41 (2-3) 14
Ugly Grouper Moss Builders
(2-2) 31 (2-3) 30
Slim’s Place (3-2) 26 Gulfview Windows and Doors (0-4) 6
OCTOBER 21, 2020
FUN IN THE SUN
Across 1 Quick blow 4 Weary worker's sigh 8 Dives 15 4 x 4, briefly 16 Six-ton predator 17 Leopard spot 18 ICU staffer 19 False claim about one's pioneer ancestors? 21 Taking courses? 23 Crest box abbr. 24 Crafty 25 Medieval German spendthrift? 30 Honey, in slang 31 Zip 32 Lot choice 36 Wall St. event 38 Enforcer of some ACA provisions 39 Vague unease 41 Transmitted documents with Red Riding Hood's
Answers to 10-14-20 Crossword Puzzle.
location? 45 Bending movement 46 __ clear 47 Large receptacle 48 Nods, maybe 49 It was precious to conquistadores 50 Oliver Twist or Tiny Tim 52 Beauty treatment for poultry? 58 Half-hearted 61 "There's __ in team" 62 Laundry employee 63 Big-screen entertainment for angels? 68 Hurdle for srs. 69 First religious leader of his title to be called "The Great" 70 Guy 71 Charlottesville sch. 72 Tools for some crossword solvers 73 500-mile race
THE SUN
74 Furry friend Down 1 Derby cocktail 2 For face value 3 Japanese takeout orders 4 Many an off-campus local 5 An Allman brother 6 Suffix with robot 7 Budgetary excess 8 Fendi rival 9 Seuss activist 10 Amer. capital 11 Bk. before Esther 12 Classic muscle cars 13 Shorthand for unlisted items 14 Alluring 20 With 35-Down, papery construction best left alone 22 Filmmaker Lupino 26 Blacksmith wear 27 For fear that 28 Capital on a fjord 29 Patricia of "Hud" 33 Tending to, as the loot 34 Like pirates, often 35 See 20-Down 36 Uncertain 37 Part of IPA 38 Midori in a rink 39 Gourd fruit 40 Piercing tool 42 Corner off. occupant 43 Share juicy details 44 Fabled braggart 49 Dust Bowl migrant
50 Dancing dinosaur 51 Kitchen gadget maker 53 __ circle 54 Pacific salmon 55 Brandish 56 Guts
57 "That's what I'm talking about!" 58 Sanitizing cloth 59 Latin love 60 California tourist valley 64 Kisses, in love letters
65 Paris' __ de la CitĂŠ 66 "What __ missing?" 67 FedEx fleet member
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CLASSIFIED
ANNOUNCEMENTS
EMPLOYMENT
FISHING CHARTERS
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
SOLO’S PIZZA LOOKING for part time evening cook. Call 941-778-8118.
CAPT. MAC GREGORY Fishing Charters. Full Day, Half Day, Night, Inshore & Near Shore. 941-809-5783 U.S.C.G. Certified/Insured
ROSER FOOD BANK needs donations of cash and non-perishable food, PAPER & PERSONAL HYGIENE PRODUCTS. Donations boxes are located at the Church, Moose Club, and Walgreen’s.
BOATS BOATS ARE STILL SELLING Very Well. No Listing Agreements. No Time Constraints, Just Easy 20 years, Excellent Reputation, Hundreds of Boats Sold. Islandboatsales. net 941-228-3489
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 THC CLEANING : Residential, Commercial, Rentals, VRBO. Professional and Reliable. Call 941-756-4570
COMMERCIAL SALES, RENT & LEASE 13 UNIT RESORT: $3,999,900 Bradenton Beach on Gulf Dr. WAREHOUSE: 9300 sq ft possible Machine Shop w/ Heavy Duty Elect. Or Car Storage. So many Possibilities. Near SRQ Airport. $595,000. Island Real Estate call 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
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JESSIE’S ISLAND STORE has immediate openings for full and part time cashiers for both day and night shifts. 2 to 3 shifts per week apply in person at 5424 Marina Drive, Holmes Beach or call 941778-6903 HOTEL ON ANNA MARIA seeking Housekeeper Full time, Part time. Must have two years experience. We drug test. Must speak English. If no Answer, leave message. 813-735-4373. HELP WANTED. HARD WORKING AND MOTIVATED employee for a small family friendly restaurant. Full/Part Time available. Front or Back of House. Inquire in person at PIZZA SOCIAL, 308 Pine Ave, Anna Maria. TWO SCOOPS – Anna Maria Island’s Favorite IceCream... is now hiring full and part-time associates. Varied shifts available must be able to work nights and weekends. A great place to work and have a little fun…looking for a few friendly people to join our team. Food prep or server experience preferred. Great Pay! Apply today…Two Scoops 101 S. Bay Blvd. Anna Maria. THE AWARD-WINNING ANNA MARIA ISLAND SUN, a weekly newspaper on Florida’s Gulf Coast, (https://amisun. com; www.facebook. com/AnnaMariaIslandSun), is looking for a freelance reporter/ photographer to cover events on this tourismdriven island. The ideal candidate will have reporting and photography experience at a community newspaper and have some experience writing for a news website. Local residents or those with previous local knowledge and willing to relocate here a plus. Resumes and cover letters may be emailed to news@amisun.com or by U.S. Postal Service to The Anna Maria Island Sun, P.O Box 1189, Anna Maria, FL 34216, attention: Mike Field, publisher.
GARAGE, MOVING, RUMMAGE & YARD SALES ESTATE SALE EVERYTHING must go. 7003 Holmes Blvd Saturday from 8am-49m Sunday 9am to 2pm YARD SALE 2516 AVE.C Bradenton Beach HUGE tropical/ beach theme yard sale LOTS of everything. Starts 8AM. October 23, 24 & 25 Friday, Saturday, and Sunday.
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 # CBC 1261150. Call Mike Kern 941-7781115 MASTER CARPENTER. Decks-Docks-FencingStairs & Railing. Free Estimates. Handyman Work. Call Richard 941448-3571 JSAN CORPORATION Renovations Construction & Handyman Services 941-243-0995 Lic# CRC1332505 jsancorporation@gmail. com Flooring, Drywall, Painting, Repairs, Kitchen and Bathrooms, Trim & Doors. Free Estimates. Credit Cards Accepted. ISLE TILE EXPERT INSTALLATION of floors, custom showers, backsplash, deck/lanai. Licensed and insured. References available. Call Chris at 941-3028759 please visit website: isletileservices.com
OCTOBER 21, 2020
HAMMERED HOMES (Saving Homes since 1984) All Handyman services & building consulting. Free Estimates & Advice. Call before making decision, save money. 941-778-3206
HOME SERVICES 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
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 STRAIGHT SHOT LANDSCAPE. Specializing in Old Florida Seashell driveways and scapes. Also Rock, Mulch, & Soil. Free estimates. Call Shark Mark 941-301-6067 ISLAND RESIDENT. TREE/ BUSH Trimming, removal. Sweeping, blowing, weeding. Weekly, bi-monthly or monthly schedule. Pressure washing: driveways, walkways, fences, pool decks/ cages. Call Bill Witaszek 941-307-9315.
MOVING & STORAGE MARTIN’S MOVING YOUR Island movers! Offering dependable, competitive rates. No hidden costs. 941-809-5777.
PAINTING & WALLCOVERING PAINT! PAINT! AND MORE 28 years of experienced interior/exterior custom painting. Pressure cleaning, drywall repairs and texture finishes. Many Island references. Please call Neil for free estimates. 941-812-0507 “WIZARD OF WALLS” Established 1980 Prompt quality service. Paperhanging/removal Faux finishes. Interior painting. Mary Bell Winegarden 941-794-0455
AMISUN.COM
PROFESSIONAL PAINTING SERVICES. Prompt & Reliable. Island Resident. Quality Workmanship. Interior/Exterior. Also minor repairs & carpentry. Free written detailed estimates. Bill Witaszek 941-307-9315 CUSTOM PAINTING, Residential-Commercial, Interior/Exterior Professional quality work for over 40 years. Free estimates. Call Larry at 941-400-8754. References available.
POOL SERVICES FOUR SEASONS POOL SERVICE AND CHEMICAL SERVICES. Certified Pool Operator. 10 + Years Experience. Residential/commercial. Chemical Service Licensed & Insured. Call Dennis Clark 941-7375657 COLE'S TROPICAL POOL SERVICE Call Cole Bowers for all your pool maintenance needs! Affordable and Dependable!! 941-7131893
PRESSURE WASHING & WINDOWS AUTHORITY ONE CLEANING : Residential, Commercial, Construction, Vacation, VRBO Rentals . Also available Pressure Washing, Roof Cleaning, Paver Sealing and Windows. Call 941565-3931.
REAL ESTATE HOMES & CONDOS FOR SALE CANAL FRONT HOMES Holmes Beach – GULF FRONT CONDOS Gulf Place, L’Plage, Vista Grande, SPW, 5400 – DUPLEXES & MORE Island Real Estate ASK Alan Galletto 941232-2216 IMMACULATE WATERFRONT HOME 520 Kumquat Dr. 4BD/5BA 3928sf Coastal Beauty! Prime location on AMI. $2,750,000 Call Charles Buky Coldwell Banker 941-228-6086
LOOKING FOR A highly motivated real estate broker to buy or sell your next home? Darcie Duncan, Broker Duncan Real Estate a lifelong island resident bringing success to her customers for 30 years. Proven track record brings you results! 941-725-1589 TURN KEY FURNISHED VRBO River District Bradenton. Estately Gardens Vacasa. $769,000 Call Brenda Boyd May. Broker owner Boyd Realty. 941-730-8589 509 PINE AVE ,ANNA MARIA. $1,690,000. 2 Cottage homes w/pool. Zoned nightly rentals/ Retail/Commercial. Furnished w/rentals in place. Virtual Tour Avaliable. Christine Kourik Re/max 941-538-7414 RUNAWAY BAY CONDO-Bradenton Beach $335,000 water view 2BR/2BA furnished. Virtual Walk thru Tour Available. Christine Kourik Re/Max 941-538-7414
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OCTOBER 21, 2020
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RENTALS: ANNUAL ANNUAL RENTALS WANTED! We have well qualified tenants for beach and mainland annual rentals, Full management or Finders fee. Call today for details. Ask for Paige DUNCAN REAL ESTATE 941-7790304. ANNUAL 2BR/1BA STEPS to Beach. Tile floors, dining area, deck with Gulf View, carport, storage room, washer/dryer. $1800/ mo. + utilities. First, Last & security deposit. Call 941778-3427 ANNUAL HOLMES BEACH cute 1BR efficiency. Washer/dryer hookup. No dogs $950/mo. First, last & security. Credit check required. Available November 1. Call 941-809-2488
COZY COTTAGE SANDPIPER 55+ Resort. 1 ½ minute walk to Beach or Bay. 1BR/1BA. Washer/ dryer For Sale or Rent. Call 941251-4767. Leave number on machine.
ANNA MARIA ISLAND CONDOS Large pool, beach access, free WiFi, 1&2 Bedroom $700/$800/$900 a wk. redekercondosonami.com Tim 941-704-7525
RENTALS: SEASONAL & VACATION
AVAILABLE JANUARY 1, 2021 thru March 31. 1BR Condo. One block to Beach. Free WIFI, large pool. $9750 for 3 months. Call 941-447-3071 ROOMMATE WANTED
TIFFANY PLACE Gulf Front Condo for Rent Incredible views from living room and master bedroom. 2BR/2BA Green Real Estate Call 941-778-0455 SIX MONTH RENTAL West of Gulf Drive. City of Anna Maria. 2BR/1BA upstairs apartment. $3000/mo. Call 941-778-4499 SEASONAL RENTAL in PALMA SOLA. 3BR/2BA weekly or monthly rates. Contact Barb Grace 941201-2190
ROOMMATE WANTED VERY PRIVATE. MUST SEE. CALL 941-685-0045
TRANSPORTATION AMI TAXI metered-on-callcards accepted. Airport: Tampa $95, Sarasota $40, Clearwater $85, Orlando $195. Call 941-447-8372 or 941-447-8376. amitaxi4u@ gmail.com, www.amitaxi.com ANYTIME TRANSPORTATION to all Airports, Casino, etc. Tampa $70. Sarasota $35. Pets welcome. Very dependable. Reasonable rates. Contact Jeanne. 941-779-5095
AIRPORT RIDES- Tampa, St. Pete, Sarasota. Mask & gloves provided. Reasonable rates! Call or text Anna 941-932-1600
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THE SUN
OCTOBER 21, 2020
the Team Duncan Difference!
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310 Pine Avenue Anna Maria, FL 34216
TeamDuncan.com
941.779.0304