Anna Maria Island Sun September 29, 2021 by Anna Maria Island Sun

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VOL 21 No. 51

September 29, 2021

Reimagining Pine Avenue will not include one-way streets The proposed Pine Avenue safety improvements call for buffered sidewalks and bike paths. BY JOE HENDRICKS SUN CORRESPONDENT | jhendricks@amisun.com

ANNA MARIA – One-way streets will not be part of the Reimagining Pine Avenue safety and traffic improvements being discussed by Anna Maria city commissioners. The commission reached that 5-0 decision during a special meeting on Wednesday, Sept. 22. The decision to eliminate the concept of the one-way streets was met with approval and relief by attending residents. The commission also reduced from four to two the potential design alternatives that contracted traffic engineer Gerry Traverso first presented on Aug. 19. The commission selected Alternatives 2 and 3 as the choices they will continue discussing. Mayor Dan Murphy noted these two alternatives may include variations to be proposed later by commissioners Deanie Sebring and Doug Copeland. The safety and traffic improvements discussed Wednesday pertain to Pine Avenue only. Potential improvements to Spring Avenue and Magnolia Avenue will be addressed later. JOE HENDRICKS | SUN

The proposed elimination of the parallel parking spaces along Pine Avenue remains a topic of city commission discussion.

Piney Point ‘closure’ not the last word When it comes to phosphate plants, “closed” doesn’t mean “gone.” Piney Point and its problems will be here for a long, long time. BY CINDY LANE SUN STAFF WRITER | clane@amisun.com

PALMETTO – When the former Piney Point phosphate plant is finally closed, the site will require monitoring – permanently – the Florida House of Representatives' Agriculture and Flooding Subcommittee learned last week. Closure of the environmentally-compromised site “… does mean that we’ll be doing monitoring of the site perpetually now until you and I are long gone from this planet,” subcommittee member Rep. Tobin "Toby" Overdorf (R- Port St. Lucie) said to Florida De-

INSIDE NEWS 4 CALENDAR 7 OUTDOORS 18 REAL ESTATE 22-27 OBITUARIES 27 CROSSWORD 29 CLASSIFIEDS 30-31

partment of Environmental Protection (FDEP) Secretary Shawn Hamilton on Sept. 22 during Hamilton’s update on Piney Point. “Yes, sir. Long-term monitoring will be required. That is a fact and is expected,” said Hamilton, calling the closure process of the site at 13300 U.S. Hwy. 41 N. a “multi-year event.” A leak was detected at the site in a gypsum stack that holds a retention pond on March 25, and FDEP approved the discharge of 215 million gallons of contaminated water into Tampa Bay to avoid an even larger spill that could have flooded area homes and businesses. The damaged area was patched. The contaminated water contains phosphogypsum process water, seawater, rain, dredge material from Port SEE PINEY POINT, PAGE 23

SEE PINE AVE., PAGE 19

Introducing the 2021 Holmes Beach commission candidates Five candidates are vying for three seats on the Holmes Beach commission this November. BY KRISTIN SWAIN SUN STAFF WRITER | kswain@amisun.com

HOLMES BEACH – The November election is looming and there are five candidates seeking the support of voters to earn one of three seats on the city commission for the next two years. The candidates include incumbent Commissioners Terry Schaefer and Carol Soustek, former commissioners John Monetti and Pat Morton and political newcomer Renee Ferguson. The Sun reached out to each candidate and will feature their answers to some of the issues facing the city of Holmes Beach

and its residents, beginning this week with the question, "Why should voters cast their ballots for you?"

RENEE FERGUSON

• Regularly attends Holmes Beach city commission meetings, planning commission meetings, code compliance special magistrate Ferguson hearings, parks and beautification committee meetings, Island Transportation Planning Organization meetings, Coalition of Barrier Island Elected Officials meetings, and Manatee County board of county commissioners’ meetings • Served on the Holmes Beach parking and congestion committee, code enforceSEE HOLMES BEACH, PAGE 20

HEAD FOR HANKS

APPLY TO RUN for the Anna

Sept. 29 from 4-6 p.m. to help out sea turtles and shorebirds. 5

Maria Commission next month. 4 VOTERS WILL DECIDE a beachfront land swap proposal. 8

Anna Maria Island, Florida

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

THE SUN

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SEPTEMBER 29, 2021

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SEPTEMBER 29, 2021

Gilson to serve as Anna Maria building official Through a contractual agreement with Charles Abbott and Associates, David Gilson will serve as the city of Anna Maria’s new contracted building official. On Thursday, Sept. 23, the city commission approved the contract agreement and authorized Gilson to serve in this capacity. Gilson will report to Mayor Dan Murphy. Full-time city employee and City Planner Chad Minor will continue reporting to the mayor and will now assist with the oversight of the building department staff. The city will pay Charles Abbott and Associates $95 per hour for Gilson’s services. When seeking commission authorization of the agreement and the appointment, Murphy said he’s already had the opportunity to work with Gilson and he’s impressed with his experience, analytical capabilities and people skills. According to his LinkedIn profile, Gilson has spent his entire adult life working in the construction industries

THE SUN

Manatee County offers free COVID-19 vaccines If you need a COVID-19 vaccine, Manatee County wants to help you get inoculated. The Florida Department of Health - Manatee is offering free Pfizer, Moderna and Johnson & Johnson vaccines along with free booster shots to anyone who is age 65 and older or is immunocompromised. Vaccines are available by ap-

pointment only from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. Monday through Friday at the Department of Health Clinic, 410 Sixth Ave. E. in Bradenton. Call 941-242-6646 to book an appointment. Anyone under age 18 must be accompanied by a parent or guardian to receive a vaccine. Anyone with an appointment to receive a vaccine must com-

plete a consent form at www. manatee.floridahealth.gov. If you’re receiving a booster shot of a COVID-19 vaccine, you need to have a completed consent form along with your COVID-19 vaccine card at your appointment.

Anna Maria commission adopts 2021-22 budget JOE HENDRICKS | SUN

David Gilson is Anna Maria’s new building official. as a tradesman, licensed contractor, business owner and building inspector. His most recent position was as a municipal building official and plans examiner. Gilson succeeds Luke Curtis, who recently resigned as the city’s building official after accepting a similar position with a municipality located closer to his home.

Anna Maria commissioners have adopted the city’s 2021-22 fiscal year budget that takes effect on Friday, Oct. 1. The $11 million budget is based on maintaining the same 2.05 millage rate that has remained in effect for the past decade. When the budget was adopted on second and final reading on Thursday, Sept. 23, Mayor Dan Murphy said the city’s millage rate remains the lowest in Manatee County. Commission Chair Carol Carter noted most Anna Maria property owners will still ex-

perience ad valorem property tax increases due to increased property values. According to budget documents, maintaining the current millage rate will generate an additional $358,582 in ad valorem property tax revenues for the city, which anticipates receiving a total of $2.96 million in ad valorem property tax revenues during the coming fiscal year. The city expects to receive approximately $882,000 in American Rescue Plan funds from the federal government and $500,000

from Manatee County for the installation of a Mote Marine Educational Outreach Center on the City Pier. The adopted budget calls for $1.9 million to be spent on general government operations, $1.05 million to be spent on public safety and law enforcement, $1.7 million to be spent on public works, $1.38 million to be spent on stormwater and drainage improvements and maintenance and approximately $780,000 to be spent on road paving and improvements.

THE SUN

ISLAND NEWS

IN BRIEF

Holmes Beach receives federal funds Commissioners have received a great present from the federal government - more than $2 million in American Rescue Plan Act funds. Commissioners voted unanimously to allow Mayor Judy Titsworth to enter into an agreement on behalf of the city to accept a total of $2,156,175 in funding with about $1,078,000 coming in this year to Holmes Beach. Though use of the funds is limited, Titsworth is preparing a plan to present to commissioners to use the monies for stormwater improvements. She said that plan should be presented to commissioners for consideration along with a proposed capital improvement schedule in October. The funds have to be used by Dec. 31, 2024 and the process has to be carefully documented to prevent city leaders from having to pay back the money. To that end, commissioners voted unanimously to accept an agreement to have Ernst & Young take charge of the documentation process for the ARPA funding. The agreement is for three years, expiring Feb. 29, 2024, with the option to extend for three more years. For the initial contract period, the agreement is retroactive to March 1, 2021. The total fees to set up the project are not to exceed $25,000. The contract states that the remainder of services provided will be discussed and a price agreed upon by city leaders on an asneeded basis.

Vacation rental donations to be discussed The second and final public hearing on an ordinance governing the donation of stays at vacation rental units in Holmes Beach is scheduled for consideration by commissioners on Tuesday, Sept. 28 at 5 p.m. The ordinance is designed to limit stays at vacation rental units to the minimum required in the zoning district where the rental unit is located. In the R-1 district, the minimum length of stay is 30 days, with a seven-day minimum in the R-2, R-3 and R-4 districts. If it passes a second reading, the ordinance will require that all donated, auctioned or other stays at rental units in which the owner receives no monetary compensation are required to meet the minimum length of stay requirements. The ordinance will not apply to any stays by the owner or their family members. The item was up for discussion and a final vote during a Sept. 15 commission meeting but commissioners voted unanimously to table the discussion until a future meeting due to ongoing changes being considered to the ordinance.

Correction Holmes Beach city leaders are considering a speed limit reduction on Gulf Drive in the A-1 mixed use district along the beach. A story in the Sept. 22 edition of The Sun stated otherwise.

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SEPTEMBER 29, 2021

Anna Maria seeks city commission applicants

Anna Maria commissioners earn $400 a month for their service to the community. BY JOE HENDRICKS SUN CORRESPONDENT | jhendricks@amisun.com

ANNA MARIA – The city will soon be accepting applications from residents interested in filling the commission seat that Doug Copeland will vacate after the November elections. The month-long application period for those interested in serving a full two-year commission term will begin on Friday, Oct. 1 and end on Oct. 31. Applications can be downloaded at the city website, www.cityofannamaria.com, or obtained in person from the city clerk’s office. According to the city charter, commission candidates must have been residents of the city of Anna Maria for at least two years before seeking office. Anna Maria commissioners earn $400 per month. On Thursday, Sept. 23, the city commission approved the application period and selection process suggested by Mayor Dan Murphy and City Attorney Becky Vose. During that meeting, Murphy said the new commissioner will be selected during the commission’s first meeting in November. As has been the case with past appointments, each commissioner will rank the applicants in their preferred order, with each commissioner’s top choice receiving one point, their second choice receiving two points and so on. The applicant with the lowest total score will be appointed to fill the vacant commission seat. The appointee will then take office after being sworn in at the commission’s annual organizational meeting in December. “I’d love to see us get more people interested in serving on the commission and I’m just not quite sure how,” Commissioner Jon Crane said during Thursday’s meeting.

JOE HENDRICKS | SUN

Commissioner Doug Copeland will vacate his appointed commission seat after the November elections. “I’ve heard a couple people who are dangling some interest out there, so I’m encouraged in that regard,” Commission Chair Carol Carter said in response to Crane. In July, Copeland was appointed to fill the remaining months of the two-year commission term unexpectedly vacated by Commissioner Joe Muscatello, who relocated to his native state of West Virginia to operate a bed and breakfast with his wife. Copeland, who previously served many terms as an Anna Maria commissioner, was the only applicant to fill the seat vacated by Muscatello. When accepting the short-term commission appointment, Copeland indicated he would not seek election in the fall in hopes of serving another full two-year term in office. After last week’s meeting, Copeland reiterated that he’s not able to serve another full twoyear term in office, and he doesn’t think it would be fair to others if he were to be reappointed to that seat when it’s unlikely he’d be able to serve the full term. Carter and Crane are running unopposed in the upcoming elections that will conclude on Tuesday, Nov. 2. By default, Carter and Crane will each earn another

I’d love to see us get more people interested in serving on the commission and I’m just not quite sure how.” Jon Crane, Anna Maria City Commissioner

two-year term in office. No additional candidates qualified to run for the seat previously vacated by Muscatello and soon to be vacated by Copeland.

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SEPTEMBER 29, 2021

THE SUN

Have fun, help turtles at Hank’s HOLMES BEACH – Come to Hurricane Hanks on Wednesday, Sept. 29 from 4-6 p.m. for good food, live local music and live and silent auctions to help raise money for sea turtles and shorebirds. The Third Annual Turtle Watch Wednesday is a fundraiser for Anna Maria Island Turtle Watch and Shorebird Monitoring, whose volunteers protect sea turtles and shorebirds on Anna Maria Island beaches. Loggerhead sea turtles, a threatened species, and green sea turtles, an endangered species, both nest on Island beaches, as do least terns, a threatened shorebird species. The indoor-outdoor event will provide plenty of room for safe social distancing with an outside bar, and newly-designed Turtle Watch masks will be available free to everyone who attends. Limited VIP seats will be available inside Hank’s to follow COVID-19 precautions, and will include a T-shirt, swag bag, free drink specials and more for $75; call 941-778-5788 for reservations. Appetizer specials will be served during the event, with $1 donated to Turtle Watch by Hanks for every food item or drink sold. The first 75 people to attend

SUBMITTED

will receive a complimentary first beer or wine courtesy of A Paradise Realty and Vacation Rentals. Volunteer auctioneer Bob Slicker will emcee silent and live auctions, and a 50-50 donation raffle also will be up for grabs. New Turtle Watch T-shirts will be available for a $20 donation. Local music legend Mike Sales will provide the entertainment and has a special surprise for attendees, who will be the first to… well, you have to attend to find out! Ample parking will be available this

year courtesy of Hancock Whitney Bank next door. The first annual event in 2018 raised $3,000, with the total increasing to $13,000 in 2019. The event was canceled in 2020 due to the pandemic. Sponsors are A Paradise Realty, Mike Sales Entertainment, J n’J Graphics, Florida Underwater Sports, CabanUp, Harbor Lane Court Vacation Rentals and The Anna Maria Island Sun.

TURTLE TIPS

During sea turtle season, May 1 – Oct. 31, please follow these tips: • Turn off lights visible from the beach and close blinds from sundown to sunrise; lights confuse nesting sea turtles and may cause them to go back to sea and drop their eggs in the water, where they won’t hatch. Light can also

attract hatchlings away from the water. • Don’t use flashlights, lanterns or camera flashes on the beach at night. • Remove all objects from the sand from sundown to sunrise; they can deter sea turtles from nesting and can disorient hatchlings. • Fill in the holes you dig in the sand and level sandcastles before leaving the beach; they can obstruct or trap nesting and hatching sea turtles, which cannot live long out of the water. • Don’t use wish lanterns or fireworks; they litter the beach and Gulf. • Do not trim trees and plants that shield the beach from lights. • Never touch a sea turtle; it’s the law. If you see people disturbing turtles, call the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission’s Wildlife Alert hotline at 888-404-FWCC (3922).

NESTING NEWS

Turtle nests laid: 421 (Record: 544 in 2019) False crawls: 556 Nests hatched: 217 Hatchlings hatched: 14,958 (Record: 35,788 in 2018) Nest disorientations: 32

THE SUN

OPINION

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

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SEPTEMBER 29, 2021

The Anna Maria Island Sun Staff Publishers Mike Field Maggie Field Editor/CEO Mike Field Layout Ricardo Fonseca Reporters Cindy Lane Joe Hendricks Kristin Swain Jason Schaffer Columnists Louise Bolger Outdoors Editor Rusty Chinnis Advertising director Shona Otto Ad assistant Pamela Lee Classified ads Bob Alexander Graphics Elaine Stroili Ricardo Fonseca Digital/Social Media Editor Cindy Lane Accounting John Reitz Leslie Ketchum Distribution Bob Alexander Tony McNulty Connor Field Contributors Tom Vaught Steve Borggren Monica Simpson

Drop us a line Got an opinion, a complaint or a compliment? Is there something you need to get off your chest? Send us a letter to the editor and have your say. There are a couple of ways to do it. The easiest and most direct is to email The Sun at news@amisun.com. Remember to put Letter to the Editor in the subject field. Or you can snail-mail a letter to us at The Anna Maria Island Sun,

P.O. Box 1189, Anna Maria, FL 34216. Letters should be kept to 300 words or less and must contain your name and the city in which you reside. Personal attacks and obscene language will not be printed. The Sun reserves the right to edit letters for length or content.

SEPTEMBER 29, 2021

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ON THE AGENDA

ANNA MARIA

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

City hall is open to the public with limited capacity and safety protocols in place. Please visit www.cityofannamaria.com or contact city hall for more information. Oct. 14, 2 p.m. – City Commission meeting Oct. 18, 2:30 – Planning and Zoning meeting

BRADENTON BEACH

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

City hall is open to the public with limited capacity and safety protocols in place. Please visit www. cityofbradentonbeach.com or contact city hall for more information. Oct. 6, 9:30 a.m. – Community Redevelopment Agency meeting Oct. 6, 2 p.m. – Scenic WAVES meeting Oct. 7, 6 p.m. – City Commission meeting Oct. 11, 10 a.m. – Swearing in of new police chief

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. 6, 10 a.m. – Parks and Beautification committee meeting Oct. 6, 5 p.m. – Planning Commission meeting Oct. 12, 5 p.m. – City Commission meeting with work session to follow MARKYOUR CALENDAR

WEDNESDAY, SEPT. 29

Third Annual Turtle Watch Wednesday benefitting Anna Maria Island Turtle Watch and Shorebird Monitoring, Hurricane Hanks, 5346 Gulf Drive, Holmes Beach, 4-6 p.m.

THURSDAY, SEPT. 30

Locals Realty Island Shoppe Crawl, pick up shopping card at 9801 Gulf Drive, Ste. 4, Anna Maria, 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Shop at local boutiques to win a prize. Call 941-4048438 for more information. RoserRobics, Roser Church, 512 Pine Ave., Anna Maria, 9:30 a.m., no cost but donations welcome. Farm stand, Holmes Beach City Hall, 5801 Marina Drive,

THE SUN

Holmes Beach, 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Sunshine Stitchers knit and crochet, Island Branch Library, 5701 Marina Drive, Holmes Beach, 2 p.m. Reserve to https:// manateelibrary.libcal.com/ event/7996411?hs=a Thursdays in Paradise Stroll featuring local art, music and food, Bridge Street, Bradenton Beach, 5 to 8 p.m.

FRIDAY, OCT. 1

Locals Realty Island Shoppe Crawl, pick up shopping card at 9801 Gulf Drive, Ste. 4, Anna Maria, 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Shop at local boutiques to win a prize. Call 941-4048438 for more information. Seashell shore walk, Coquina Beach, 2650 Gulf Drive S., Bradenton Beach, 9 a.m. Reserve at 941-7425923 ext. 6036. Forty Carrots, Island Branch Library, 5701 Marina Drive, Holmes Beach, 10 a.m. Reserve to https:// manateelibrary.libcal.com/ event/7958987. Mahjong, Island Branch Library, 5701 Marina Drive, Holmes Beach, 11:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. Register online at https://manateelibrary.libcal. com/event/7996688

SATURDAY, OCT. 2

Robinson Runners, Robinson Preserve Mosaic Nest, 840 Ninth Ave. N.W., Bradenton, 8 a.m. Saturday mornings at the NEST, Robinson Preserve Mosaic Nest, 840 Ninth Ave. N.W., Bradenton, 9 a.m. to noon. Face masks required. International Coastal Cleanup, Coquina Beach, 2650 Gulf Drive S., Bradenton Beach, 9 a.m. to noon. Locals Realty Island Shoppe Crawl, pick up shopping card at 9801 Gulf Drive, Ste. 4, Anna Maria, 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Shop at local boutiques to win a prize. Call 941-4048438 for more information.

SUNDAY, OCT. 3

Farm stand, Holmes Beach City Hall, 5801 Marina Drive, Holmes 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. Bring your own yoga mat. Register at https:// parks.mymanatee.org/

wbwsc/webtrac.wsc/search. html?primarycode=110006 or call 941-742-5923 ext. 6042 for more information.

TUESDAY, OCT. 5

RoserRobics, Roser Church, 512 Pine Ave., Anna Maria, 9:30 a.m., no cost but donations welcome. Family story time, Island Branch Library, 5701 Marina Drive, Holmes Beach 10 a.m. Reserve to https:// manateelibrary.libcal.com/ event/8303014 Mahjong, Island Branch Library, 5701 Marina Drive, Holmes Beach, 11:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. Register online at https://manateelibrary.libcal. com/event/7996689 Tech help, Island Branch Library, 5701 Marina Drive, Holmes Beach, 3-3:30 p.m. Register online at https:// manateelibrary.libcal.com/ event/7996154

WEDNESDAY, OCT. 6

Ukulele Instruction for Beginners, Island Branch Library, 5701 Marina Drive, Holmes Beach, 1 p.m. Register online at https:// manateelibrary.libcal.com/ event/8315406

THURSDAY, OCT. 7

RoserRobics, Roser Church, 512 Pine Ave., Anna Maria, 9:30 a.m., no cost but donations welcome. Farm stand, Holmes Beach City Hall, 5801 Marina Drive, Holmes Beach, 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Sunshine Stitchers knit and crochet, Island Branch Library, 5701 Marina Drive, Holmes Beach 2 p.m. Register online at https:// manateelibrary.libcal.com/ event/7996412 Thursdays in Paradise Stroll featuring local art, music and food, Bridge Street, Bradenton Beach, 5 to 8 p.m.

FRIDAY, OCT. 8

Forty Carrots, Island Branch Library, 5701 Marina Drive, Holmes Beach, 10 a.m. Register online https:// manateelibrary.libcal.com/ event/7958988 Mahjong Club, Island Branch Library, 5701 Marina Drive, Holmes Beach, 11:30 a.m. Register online https:// manateelibrary.libcal.com/ event/7996690

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THE SUN

SEPTEMBER 29, 2021

Voters to decide land swap The future of a piece of city right of way and how a family will build their dream house will land in the hands of voters this November. BY KRISTIN SWAIN SUN STAFF WRITER | kswain@amisun.com

HOLMES BEACH – When voters go to the polls this November, they’ll be deciding more than just who will take three open seats on the city commission. They also will be deciding if the city completes a land swap with a local property owner. Jonathan and Jessica Cooper appealed to city leaders over the summer to swap a 25-by-100-foot section of a 50-by-100-foot city right of way bisecting their property at 104 34th St. for a 2,911-square-foot trapezoid section of beachfront property they own. The couple’s attorney, Maggie Mooney, said that they would also be willing to pay $10,000 for dune restoration at a beach access point near their property or donate $10,000 to the city to be used for an environmental project of the city leaders’ choice.

While Mooney said the property is planned to be used exclusively for the use of the Coopers and their friends and family, if the land swap passes with voters, the couple also is willing to sign an agreement that the property will not be rented for a period of 10 years. The agreement would go with the land if the property is sold within that timeframe. A 2019 charter amendment requires the land swap issue to go before voters rather than leaving it in the hands of Holmes Beach elected officials. If it passes with voters, the land swap will increase the size of the buildable section of the Coopers' lot. If the land swap doesn’t pass, the Coopers still have options to use the city right of way bisecting their property. A recent issue at 127 50th St. in Holmes Beach illustrates what options owners with adjoining properties have concerning unimproved city rights of way. In both instances, the abutting right of way is an unimproved road, meaning that it was originally planned to be an extension of an existing road but that road was never built. In speaking with

FILE PHOTO | SUN

Voters will decide whether the city swaps a section of right of way (in red) for a privatelyowned beachfront parcel (left, in green). The Sun, Mayor Judy Titsworth said in these instances that the right of way cannot be annexed into the property owner’s private property without being put before voters, but it can be used as an access point. Titsworth said an abutting property owner can pave the unimproved road right of way, creating an access point to their property, which is what happened on 50th Street. She said the property

owner has to pay to improve the right of way to city standards for a road and provide infiltration for stormwater. The resident’s property will still have to meet all setbacks, onsite parking requirements, stormwater infiltration and other building regulations on the private property, not on the right of way. For the Cooper property, Titsworth said they could construct their home with the garage facing the beach, where the right of way in question is located, and use the entire right of way to access their driveway and garage even if the land swap isn’t approved by voters. What Titsworth said abutting property owners can’t do is to use the right of way as a driveway, parking area, build on it or use it as an extension of their property, such as putting out chairs, a tiki bar or storage shed on the right of way. For any of those uses, the property would have to be annexed into the private property by receiving voters’ blessing at the polls. If the Cooper land deal passes with voters during the Nov. 2 election, it will go back before city commissioners to be ratified by ordinance.

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SEPTEMBER 29, 2021

THE SUN

Bridge Street crosswalk replacement begins When completed, the new stamped asphalt crosswalks will have the appearance of red brick crosswalks. BY JOE HENDRICKS SUN CORRESPONDENT | jhendricks@amisun.com

BRADENTON BEACH – Bradenton-based construction company C-Squared has begun replacing four of the five failing brick paver crosswalks previously installed on Bridge Street by another company in early 2020. Working as a subcontractor for Utilities Consultants of Florida, Colliers Engineering engineered the new crosswalks for the Bradenton Beach Community Redevelopment Agency (CRA) at a cost not to exceed $3,000. The CRA is paying C-Squared $59,680 to replace the brick paver crosswalks according to the new plans engineered by Colliers. Two of the brick paver crosswalks were removed and partially replaced last week. Two more will be removed and partially replaced this week. The brick paver crosswalk at the east end of Bridge Street will not be replaced at this time but will be addressed as part of a future project, according to acting Police Chief John Cosby. The concrete ribbons that extended at least a foot downward and bordered the four brick paver crosswalks are being completely removed. When the two brick paver crosswalks near the Bradenton Beach Post Office were removed last week, the existing base materials also

JOE HENDRICKS | SUN

The failing brick paver crosswalk near the Bridge Street/Gulf Drive roundabout was scheduled for removal and partial replacement on Monday. were removed and replaced and then covered with an initial coat of black asphalt. After that asphalt has cured for at least 14 days, additional asphalt will be installed, stamped to resemble a brick surface and then painted brick red. The crosswalks will be bordered by painted white lines that further distinguish the crosswalks from the roadway. The west end of Bridge Street was scheduled to be temporarily closed for a short time Monday morning, Sept. 27, to allow the initial crosswalk replacement work to take place near the Bridge Street/Gulf Drive roundabout.

PAST EFFORTS

The brick paver crosswalks were installed by Classic Brick Construction in early 2020, according to plans engineered by Lynn Burnett and her

LTA Engineers firm. Burnett was vacationing and out of the state when the brick pavers were delivered earlier than anticipated. The brick paver crosswalks were then installed under the oversight of CRA liaison and City Attorney Ricinda Perry. Within months of being installed, the brick paver crosswalks began to settle and sink. This created a tripping hazard for pedestrians and bumpy surface for motorists traveling on Bridge Street. Under the original warranty, Classic Brick Construction attempted to repair and stabilize the brick paver crosswalks but those repairs proved unsuccessful. Rather than ask Classic Brick to attempt make the repairs for a second time, the CRA members decided earlier this year to contract C-Squared to install the new stamped asphalt crosswalks engineered by Colliers.

During those CRA discussions, Burnett and Perry blamed each other for the failing crosswalks. Burnett attributed the failures to her not being present when the installation began. Perry attributed the failures to Burnett’s engineering. It was also noted that Classic Brick may have lacked the equipment needed to properly compact the subsurface base materials in a manner that would withstand the high volume of traffic and delivery truck traffic on Bridge Street. The brick paver crosswalks were installed as part of a larger CRAfunded project that included the successful installation of brick paver parking areas along Bridge Street. The brick paver parking areas have not been plagued by the same settling issues and do not require repairs or replacement.

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THE SUN

SEPTEMBER 29, 2021

Return of red tide may be driving away tourists With the return of red tide, some tourists are leaving the Island to take their chances at other area beaches. BY JASON SCHAFFER SUN CORRESPONDENT | jschaffer@amisun.com

ANNA MARIA ISLAND – Red tide hit the Island this year in mid-April. By mid-September, it appeared the worst had subsided. A stroll down Bridge Street in Bradenton Beach or Pine Avenue in Anna Maria was free of coughing shoppers, and the air smelled like fresh donuts and grilled seafood rather than dead fish. Unfortunately, this relief was short-lived, and red tide returned in a concentration high enough to cause concern for locals and tourists alike. “We can’t take it, my daughter and husband have been coughing constantly,” said Jacksonville resident Jillian Sovine, who is staying in

JASON SCHAFFER | SUN

From left, Joe Lehman, Ginger Lehman, Bill Bennett and Lisa Bennett visit Bradenton Beach from Columbus, Ohio. Anna Maria with her family and two friends. “Tomorrow we’re going to drive down to Siesta Key and see if it’s any better there. There’s nothing we can do; we’ve already paid for the house so we’ll sleep

here, but as long as it’s this bad, we can’t have any fun on the beach or even by the pool. We’ve talked to other people on our street who are doing the same thing.” A drive by the Coquina

Beach public parking lot last week was a sign of the wrath of red tide. Even with construction that has temporarily closed hundreds of parking spaces, there was ample parking available with some

areas completely free of cars. Bridge Street, which makes use of The Old Town Tram parking shuttle service due to very little public parking, had plenty of empty spaces even during the busy lunch rush. This could be a bad sign, but not everybody is seriously concerned. “On a scale of 1-10 as far as being concerned, I’d put it at about a five. I have two young kids under the age of two, so of course there is concern,” said Joe Lehman, of Columbus, Ohio. who is visiting Bradenton Beach for a week with his family. While red tide wasn’t the optimum scenario for Lehman and his family, they all agreed it was a great choice to visit the Island and it wasn’t going to spoil their vacation. Red tide around AMI increased from low to medium concentrations last week, according to the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission.

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SEPTEMBER 29, 2021

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Red tide increases to medium concentrations BY CINDY LANE SUN STAFF WRITER | clane@amisun.com

ANNA MARIA ISLAND – Red tide has been detected in medium concentrations in Anna Maria Island waters, an increase from last week’s low concentrations, according to Friday’s Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission weekly report. The toxic algae began appearing in mid-April after 215 million gallons of contaminated water was dumped into Tampa Bay from Piney Point, a former phosphate plant. The water contained the nutrients nitrogen and phosphorus, which act as a fertilizer for red tide. The discharge was approved by the Florida Department of Environmental Protection to prevent contaminated water in a holding pond on top of a compromised gypsum stack from flooding the area. Piney Point is the subject of two pending lawsuits and is in receivership.

Red tide dissipated in Manatee County from Aug. 30 until Sept. 14, when low concentrations were detected. On Sept. 21, medium concentrations were detected in water samples taken at the Rod n’ Reel Pier in Anna Maria and at the 10th Street Pier in Bradenton Beach. Low concentrations were detected at Key Royale (School Key) and the Longboat Pass boat ramp, according to the report. Fish kills and respiratory irritation related to red tide were reported in Manatee County over the past week. Red tide produces a neurotoxin called brevetoxin that can cause respiratory irritation, coughing, and more serious illness for people with severe or chronic respiratory conditions such as asthma, emphysema or COPD, according to the Florida Department of Health. Health officials recommend that people experiencing symptoms stay away from the water and go inside to an air-conditioned space with closed windows and a clean A/C filter. Wear-

High

RED TIDE REPORT

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

Very low

(possible respiratory irritation)

Background

Medium

(no effects)

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

None

(no red tide present)

Low

(possible respiratory irritation, shellfish harvesting closures, fish kills) Source: Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission ing masks, especially during onshore winds, is also advised. Health officials warn against swimming near dead fish, and advise keeping pets away from dead fish and seafoam, which can contain high concentrations of red tide. Pets are not allowed on Anna Maria Island’s

beaches but are allowed on the Palma Sola Causeway on Manatee Avenue. Officials also warn that consuming shellfish exposed to red tide can cause neurotoxic shellfish poisoning. Updated red tide forecasts are available at habforecast.gcoos.org and at visitbeaches.org.

Mapping success Tommy and Beverly Kirkpatrick won this raffle prize donated by Island Print and Mail at the Anna Maria Island Chamber of Commerce event hosted by Compass Pointe on Thursday evening.

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Artists’ Guild invites you to learn online The Artists’ Guild of Anna Maria Island invites you to learn online in a live workshop entitled “Beach Birds” with watercolor artist Gwen Kodad on Monday, Oct. 11 from 10:30 a.m. to 2 p.m. Students will work with a limited palette to create shadows and contrasts

on white birds, and use several techniques to create the “sparkle” on the water and add textural interest to the sand. A recording will be available for 30 days after the class. To register, visit www.amiartistsguildgallery.com.

SEPTEMBER 29, 2021

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Commissioners update noise ordinance Holmes Beach commissioners voted 4-1 to pass the final reading of an ordinance amending the city’s noise ordinance to include “plainly audible” as a defined term. The ordinance also states that noise ordinance violations can be determined from up to 100 feet from the property line of the offending property. The distance limitation is not all-encompassing and is only one of many tools that

police and code compliance officers can use to determine a noise violation. Commissioner Kim Rash voted against the ordinance, saying that he would rather the distance from property lines be reduced to 50 feet. City leaders said that lowering the distance to 50 feet, despite the often small size of residential lots in the city, would be difficult if not impossible to defend in court if a citation was contested.

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SEPTEMBER 29, 2021

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Island Gallery West announces new featured artist Island Gallery West in Holmes Beach has announced Jim Wheeler will be its October Featured Artist. BY JASON SCHAFFER SUN CORRESPONDENT | jschaffer@amisun.com

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HOLMES BEACH - Island Gallery West has announced its Featured Artist for the month of October. Jim Wheeler has been a photographer since Wheeler the age of 16, and is a longtime painter of acrylics. These skills combine in “Feathers,” an exhibit of Wheeler’s work featuring photographs that have been digitally and/or manually enhanced with the addition of acrylic over-painting for a unique "painterly" look. Wheeler chose the “Feathers” theme because of his love for birds of all kinds. Bird pictures have always dominated his body of work and he finds them to be a big part of the beauty of nature. He’s had a Timneh Grey Parrot who has been his companion since 1990 and has Parts & Services spent many hours on long bicycle Available rides with Wheeler, who has been a bicycle-ride leader, president and general board member with the Sarasota Manatee Bicycle Club for the past 15 years. Wheeler has had photographs

SUBMITTED

Island Gallery West’s October featured artist is Jim Wheeler.

published nationally on multiple occasions, served as a judge for the Cleveland Photographic Society and worked as the awardwinning chief editor for a national business magazine among other career achievements. Meet Wheeler at Island Gallery West on Friday, Oct. 8 from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. where he will be on hand to answer questions and discuss his unique process of

blending the two media to create his unique works of art. Island West Gallery is located at 5368 Gulf Drive in Holmes Beach, Trolley Stop 15, on Anna Maria Island. Gallery hours are 10 a.m. to 5 p.m., Tuesday through Sunday. Visit www.islandgallerywest.com or call 941-778-6648 for updates about the art and 30 member-artists of the gallery. Masks are encouraged. Hand sanitizer is available.

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SEPTEMBER 29, 2021

Myths and facts about COVID-19 vaccines BY JASON SCHAFFER SUN CORRESPONDENT | jschaffer@amisun.com

As the COVID-19 pandemic continues, here’s some guidance from the Centers for Disease Control and local doctors separating myth from fact about vaccines. Myth: I’m young (or I’m healthy), so I don’t need to get vaccinated. Fact: While younger adults are less likely than the elderly to die of COVID-19, the disease can still be dangerous for them. Studies indicate that among adults age 18 to 39 who developed COVID-19, nearly 30% now suffer from “long-hauler” symptoms, including fatigue, brain fog and loss of taste or smell. Many of these young adults had only a mild case of COVID-19 when they were first infected. Myth: Break-through infections prove the vaccines don’t work against the Delta variant. Fact: While mild breakthrough infections may be more common than once thought, the main goal of the vaccines is to prevent severe disease and death. That is something all of the vaccines do really well. They prevent hospitalization and severe disease in 90% of people who get a break-through infection. If you are vaccinated and get

the virus, chances are you’ll get very mild symptoms or no symptoms at all. Myth: I might get COVID-19 from the vaccine. Fact: None of the authorized vaccines in the U.S. contain live virus. This means that the vaccine cannot make you sick with COVID-19. Short-term symptoms that may follow a vaccination are normal and show that your body is building protection against the virus. Myth: I already had COVID-19 and have antibodies so I don’t need the vaccine. Fact: According to the CDC, you should be vaccinated regardless of whether you already had COVID-19. That’s because experts do not yet know how long you are protected from getting sick again after recovering. Having an infection does not guarantee a strong immune defense. Research indicates that immunity from vaccination is likely to be stronger than immunity following infection. Myth: COVID-19 vaccines were developed too fast to be safe. Fact: Both the Pfizer-BioNTech and Moderna COVID-19 vaccines are mRNA vaccines, which are not new. Scientists have been working on mRNA vaccines for decades for a variety of illnesses — SARS,

MERS, Zika, Ebola, newer influenza vaccines and even some seasonal coronaviruses — and that gave them a huge head start when it was time to work on COVID-19 vaccines. The other type of authorized COVID-19 vaccine (Johnson & Johnson) employs a weakened adenovirus, which also has been studied extensively in developing other vaccines. Additional reviews by the CDC and FDA have found the J&J vaccine is safe and effective in preventing COVID-19 among anyone age 18 and older. Women under age 50 concerned about the very rare risk of a clotting disorder should know that the clots have not been associated with the PfizerBioNTech or Moderna vaccines. The clinical trials for the three authorized COVID-19 vaccines were all done with the

same rigor applied to all vaccine trials, and the results were reviewed and approved by multiple independent advisory panels. Myth: I need to wait for full FDA approval to get vaccinated. Fact: Pfizer has now received full FDA approval. The Moderna and Johnson & Johnson vaccines are available under emergency use authorization by the FDA. Moderna is expected be fully approved in several weeks, and Johnson & Johnson is expected to go through the same steps in the coming months. With the Delta variant and increased transmission, the CDC says it’s more urgent than ever to get vaccinated as soon as possible, and all of the authorized vaccines in use are safe and effective. All of the vaccines have met the FDA’s rigorous standards for safety, effectiveness, and manufacturing quality. The vaccines were evaluated in tens of thousands of participants in clinical trials. Hundreds of millions of people in the U.S. have received the vaccines. According to the CDC, the vaccines have undergone and will continue to undergo the most intensive safety monitoring in U.S. history. This monitoring includes using both established and new safety monitoring systems to make sure vaccines are safe.

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SEPTEMBER 29, 2021

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AME two weeks COVID-19 free For the second week in a row, Anna Maria Elementary School reports no students or staff testing positive for COVID-19. BY JASON SCHAFFER SUN CORRESPONDENT | jschaffer@amisun.com

HOLMES BEACH - For the first time since the start of the 2021-22 school year, Anna Maria Elementary has not reported any positive COVID-19 cases among students or staff for two consecutive weeks. AME remains one of only two schools in Manatee County that has not reported any COVID-positive staff since the beginning of the year, and student cases remain among the lowest in the county at 12. The numbers are dropping throughout the county, which has seen a total of 2,401 student cases and 355 staff testing positive since

the beginning of the school year. As of Friday, Sept. 24, there were only nine students and nine staff reporting a positive COVID-19 status in the county. The School District of Manatee County has a mask mandate, but since there is an opt-out clause, it is not in violation of Gov. Ron DeSantis’ ban on mask mandates. Florida’s newly-appointed Surgeon General, Dr. Joseph Ladapo, signed new protocols on Sept. 22 allowing parents to decide whether their children should quarantine or stay in school if they are asymptomatic after being exposed to someone who has tested positive for COVID-19. In terms of quarantine rules, Ladapo eliminated previous mandates requiring students to quarantine for at least four days off-campus if they've been exposed. Under the new

JASON SCHAFFER | SUN

Anna Maria Elementary School in Holmes Beach has no COVID-19 cases for the second week in a row. guidelines, students who have been exposed can continue going to campus "without restrictions or disparate treatment" provided they are asymptomatic.

COVID-19 PROCEDURES IN MANATEE COUNTY SCHOOLS

• All students and employees who are sick or who have symptoms will be sent home until they are symptom-free. • Temperature checks will be taken daily for all employees and randomly for students.

• Reinforce and practice proper handwashing techniques among students and staff. • Provide and encourage the use of hand sanitizer that contains at least 60% alcohol. • Deep clean and disinfect schools and school buses daily, or in between uses as needed. • Make every effort to social distance as much as possible in schools. • District employees visiting schools, other than their own, must wear masks during the school day. • Provide plastic shields in elementary classrooms and cafeterias where possible. • All employees will answer COVID-related questions daily upon arriving at work. • Limit non-essential visitors and volunteers to school campuses. • Everyone eligible to be vaccinated is strongly encouraged to get vaccinated.

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KRISTIN SWAIN | SUN

Join the Roser cantata choir Roser Memorial Community Church is looking for a few good singers to join its cantata choir for the holiday season. After taking a year off due to COVID-19 protocols, the choir is coming back for a holiday cantata called, “Sing Joy to All the World.” A performance will be held at

8:30 a.m. and 10 a.m. on Sunday, Dec. 19 in a worldwide webcast on the church’s YouTube page. Weekly rehearsals will be held on Thursdays from 6:45-8 p.m. from now through Dec. 19. For more information, email craig@roserchurch.com or call the office at 941-778-0414.

Arts and Crafts Fair vendors needed There’s still time to join the Cortez Cultural Center Arts and Crafts Fair on Saturday, Oct. 23. Jointly sponsored with the Florida Maritime Museum, the fair is focused on nautical items like boating supplies and fishing gear. Local artists will offer vintage jewelry, Florida shell art, creative beachy flip flops, and a special Treasures of Cortez booth with prints, cookbooks, Cortez history and Florida authors. Delicious baked goods also will be available. Vendor spaces are $25 for the event,

scheduled from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m., with set-up by 8:30 a.m. Bring your own chairs and a table; vehicles may be pulled into the Cultural Center property to unload, then parked at the FISH Preserve past the boatworks east of the center. Apply now; space is limited. The deadline to apply is Oct. 10; email cvhs2016@aol.com. Photos and a description of the items for sale will be promoted on Facebook.

SEPTEMBER 29, 2021

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Farmer’s market returning soon Taking place at City Pier Park, the city of Anna Maria’s seasonal farmer’s market will resume on Tuesday, Oct. 12 and continue each Tuesday through May 10 from 8:30 a.m. to 2 p.m. With a focus on produce and fresh food, the city seeks a total of eight to 12 market vendors, including those who have participated in the past. Arts and crafts vendors are not desired. Vendors have until Friday, Oct. 1, to submit an application. Applications can be downloaded at the city website, www.cityofannamaria.com, or obtained from the city clerk’s office. For more information call 941-708-6130.

JOE HENDRICKS | SUN

The city of Anna Maria’s seasonal farmers market emphasizes produce and fresh food.

Big Brothers Big Sisters golf cart giveaway Big Brothers Big Sisters of the Sun Coast is holding a fundraising raffle for a chance to win a 2017 E-Z-Go golf cart valued at $7,500. Only 150 chances will be sold at $100 per chance. The cart features a one-year electrical warranty, new batteries, full mechanical inspection, rear seat, lights and more. Free delivery will also be available to any winner in Manatee or Sarasota county. The drawing will take place on Nov. 8 and

Shop local boutiques

the winner will be notified the same day. To enter, visit www.one.bidpal. net/tbclassic21/browse/featured.

Ameris Bank, AMI Chamber fight hunger The Anna Maria Island Chamber of Commerce is working with Ameris Bank to fight hunger. The Chamber will have a yellow bin in their office at 5313 Gulf Drive, Holmes Beach, through the end of October to collect non-perishable food donations, which are greatly appreciated.

Locals Realty is helping out local Anna Maria Island boutiques by hosting a shopping crawl. Pick up your shopping card at 9801 Gulf Drive, Suite 4 in Anna Maria. The goal is to shop at 10 Island boutiques from Sept. 30 to Oct. 2, collect a stamp from each store and turn in your card at Locals Realty to enter into a drawing to win prizes. The participating boutiques are Back Alley Treasures, Original Sand Dollar, Pink and Navy, West Coast Surf Shop, Beach Blossoms, The White Egret, Island Charms, Vintage Beach, Cove and Azure. For more information, call 941-404-8438.

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OUTDOORS

SEPTEMBER 29, 2021

Enjoy nature at the Florida Birding and Nature Festival Reel Time RUSTY CHINNIS

’ve had the pleasure of working with Ann Paul since the late 1980s when she and her late husband, Rich, head of Audubon’s Coastal Island Sanctuaries, worked with the Sister Keys Conservancy and the Town of Longboat Key to make sure the keys remained as open space for generations to come. Ann began her career with Audubon Florida’s Coastal Islands Sanctuaries in June 1991. Over the years, she has worked diligently to assure the protection of local wading bird species and was called “the wading birds’ best human friend” by the National Audubon Society. She was named the Theodore Roosevelt Hillsborough Forever Conservation Award winner in 2018 by Hillsborough County. Recently I got a call from Paul mentioning she was now heading the Florida Birding and Nature Festival Oct. 15-17. The mission of the Florida Birding and Nature Festival is to promote appreciation and conservation of Florida’s birds, wildlife and their habitats through responsible nature-based tourism and public awareness. A lofty mission, the festival works to host a festival once a year. This year their efforts reflect a sensitivity to the coronavirus, and all in-person events are located outdoors. Thirty-six field trips to special habitats in all of the region’s six counties will be led by expert birders and naturalists

TOM BELL | SUBMITTED

A roseate spoonbill takes off. and the managers of the preserves we visit. Fourteen seminars will be presented by Zoom about Florida’s most beloved and iconic birds and other wildlife, including gopher tortoises, rattlesnakes, coyotes, bees and butterflies by the scientists who know most about them. The festival coincides with the peak migration of more than 180 species and features expert-led field and boating trips to the best wildlife sites in West Central Florida. Among them are the Cross Bar Ranch in Spring Hill; Circle B Bar Reserve in Polk County; Egmont Key; Cockroach Bay Aquatic Preserve; Bullfrog Creek Mitigation Area and the Hillsborough River. A trip to the Shultz

Preserve will focus on butterflies and other insects, as well as birds. Some of the trips are to areas normally not open to the public. A Nature Expo on Friday and Saturday will be hosted at Tampa Electric’s Manatee Viewing Center in Apollo Beach, using the open air under the elevated buildings so exhibits are both outside and in the shade. Two evening keynote talks with sumptuous appetizers are planned – on Friday, Craig Pittman, award-winning author and investigative environmental reporter for the Tampa Bay Times, and Saturday, Clay Taylor, long-time birder, naturalist and nature photographer with Swarovski Optik North America. Pittman tells fascinating stories about

Florida’s wildlife and history in such compelling books as “Cat Tale: The Wild, Weird Battle to Save The Florida Panther,” “Oh, Florida!: How America's Weirdest State Influences the Rest of the Country,” and "Manatee Insanity.” Taylor has been photographing birds for more than 45 years and is the Naturalist Market Manager for Swarovski. Taylor will discuss a birder’s photographic options and field techniques and show stunning bird pictures. He will address how digital cameras and smartphones have changed how people go birding. The Nature Expo will include binoculars and optic companies Redstart and Swarovski. Other bird and nature-related merchandise, including butterfly plants by the Little Red Wagon Native Plant Nursery and agency and environmental groups will be featured. The opening will include a dinner buffet, including hors d’oeuvres, and a beer and wine cash bar. Hillsborough County Commissioner Mariella Smith will give a special welcome to festivalgoers. This is a robust and vigorous selection of opportunities for people to explore our region’s most significant preserves with the best naturalist interpretation about the wildlife and habitats during the height of the great North American bird migration season. It is a great opportunity to learn more, see more and appreciate more the area’s unique and special natural features. Space is limited so early registration is advised. Contact Andee Richards, administrator at 813-444-0115; or email info@fbnfestival.org. For more information and to register for tickets, go to www.fbnfestival.org.

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SEPTEMBER 29, 2021

Water quality at area beaches based on monitoring of enterococcus bacteria levels, which can pose an increased risk of infectious disease:

Source: Florida Department of Heath

PINE AVE: No one-way streets

Water quality report

Bayfront Park North Bradenton Beach Coquina Beach North Coquina Beach South Manatee Beach North Palma Sola Bay South

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Good Good Good Good Good Good

FROM PAGE 1

PREFERRED DESIGN ALTERNATIVES

Alternative 2 proposes buffered bike paths and sidewalks along each side of Pine Avenue. Separated from vehicular travel lanes, the new sidewalks and bike paths would improve pedestrian and bicyclist safety. Alternative 3 proposes sidewalks along both sides of Pine Avenue and side-by-side bike paths running in opposite directions along one side of Pine Avenue. Both alternatives include the potential for additional stormwater treatment and improved drainage through the use of an exfiltration trench or trenches with valley gutters and inlets. During previous discussions, Traverso said the sidewalks and bike paths could be constructed using permeable concrete or permeable pavers instead of standard concrete. This would allow for better drainage but would also significantly increase the project costs. Traverso said the new sidewalks would be configured in a manner that maintains the existing locations of the meandering pathways in front of some Pine Avenue businesses. Both alternatives propose the elimination of 33 public parking spaces currently located along Pine Avenue in city-owned rights of way, and that remains a subject of ongoing commission discussion.

TRAFFIC STUDY RESULTS

According to traffic studies that Traverso conducted in mid-June, 2,730 motor vehicles turned right from Gulf Drive onto Pine Avenue during a 24-hour weekday period and 2,639 vehicles made that turn during a 24-hour period on a Saturday. To account for peak tourist season from February through May, the Florida Department of Transportation (FDOT) recommends increasing non-peak season traffic study figures by 16%. When adjusted for peak season, Traverso estimated 3,167 vehicles per day turn right from Gulf Drive onto Pine Avenue during a 24-hour weekday period in peak season and 3,061 vehicles do so during a 24-hour period on a Saturday. According to the traffic study, 614 vehicles turned right onto Magnolia Avenue from Gulf Drive on a weekday and 704 vehicles did so on a Saturday. According to the study, 321 vehicles turned right

CITY OF ANNA MARIA | SUBMITTED

Left, Design Alternative 2 proposes a bike lane on each side of Pine Avenue. Design Alternative 3 proposes two bike lanes on the same side of Pine Avenue. from Gulf Drive onto Spring Avenue during the weekday and 415 vehicles did so on a Saturday.

ONE-WAY IMPLICATIONS

Before the commission eliminated the concept of the one-way streets, Traverso said converting Pine Avenue into a one-way street with traffic traveling from the City Pier toward Gulf Drive would result in an estimated 3,774 vehicles turning onto Gulf Drive on a weekday and 4,067 vehicles making that turn on a Saturday. Converting Magnolia Avenue into a one-way street with motorists traveling from Gulf Drive toward South Bay Boulevard would result in an estimated 2,525 vehicles turning right onto Magnolia from Gulf Drive on a weekday and 2,551 vehicles making that turn on a Saturday. With Pine Avenue and Magnolia Avenue transformed into one-way streets and Spring Avenue remaining a two-way street, Traverso estimated 1,140 vehicles would turn right off Gulf Drive onto Spring Avenue on a weekday and 1,207 vehicles would make that turn on a Saturday. He estimated 1,283 vehicles would turn off Spring Avenue onto Gulf Drive during that same weekday period and an estimated 1,414 vehicles would make that turn on a Saturday. After hearing those numbers, Copeland expressed strong opposition to the concept of the oneway streets. “If we did the one-way pairs, you’re adding almost 5,000 cars to Spring and Magnolia. I find that totally unacceptable for those neighborhoods. I would be putting a for sale sign up if I lived on either one of those streets,” he said. Commissioner Jon Crane suggested making Pine Avenue a oneway street while leaving Spring Avenue and Magnolia Avenue as two-way streets, but that suggestion received no support from the other commissioners.

PARALLEL PARKING SPACES

Commissioners expressed differing opinions on the elimination of the parallel parking spaces located along Pine Avenue and no final decision has been made in that regard. Copeland wants to preserve the existing parking spaces. He fears removing them would result in motorists parking in nearby residential neighborhoods and create a lack of public parking similar to what exists in the Bridge Street area of Bradenton Beach. Sebring supports eliminating the public parking spaces along Pine Avenue. She fears preserving those parallel parking spaces could result in car doors being opened into the path of bicyclists using the new bike paths. Traverso said the privatelyowned parking spaces in front of the Pine Avenue businesses would not be eliminated or significantly impacted. The question was again raised as to whether the privately-owned vacant lot at the corner of Pine Avenue and North Shore Drive could be used for parking. According to county records, the vacant lot was acquired by the 303 Pine LLC in June and the LLC secured a $1.3 million construction mortgage that could potentially be increased to $2.99 million. Sebring briefly addressed the Pine Avenue parking again during Thursday’s regular city commission meeting. She expressed her hope that if the Pine Avenue parking spaces are eliminated, the Roser Memorial Community Church would provide some public parking spaces across the street from the church in exchange for the church’s continued use of the city-owned property at the west end of Tarpon Street. Sebring also proposed using a gated area at the far end of the city-owned AMI Historical Museum property for public parking if the public parking spaces along Pine Avenue are eliminated.

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HOLMES BEACH: Commission candidates FROM PAGE 1

ment committee, form of government ad-hoc committee and dog park committee • Owned and operated an executive search firm for 28 years in Princeton, New Jersey, and as president of her professional personnel association • Volunteer work includes the Golden Retriever Rescue of Mid-Florida, Anna Maria Island Historical Society, Suncoast Waterkeeper, Friends of the Island Library and Roser Memorial Community Church • 11-year resident of Holmes Beach Q: Why should voters cast their ballots for you? A: “My civic responsibility to make our city the best coastal city in Florida is evident in my resume. For 11 years I have stepped up and served. I have been appointed to committees, volunteered at city functions, advocated for the city dog park, and attended and participated in commission meetings and work sessions. I have done hours of research in order to address areas that I felt needed resident input or clarification. I have committed myself to my city and its residents. I am a team player and a good listener. I strive to achieve fairness and compromise. My background is in Human Resources and this has taught me how to develop partnerships to bring people together for the betterment of all.”

JOHN MONETTI

• Formerly served three terms as a Holmes Beach city commissioner and five years on the planning commission • Worked as the Monetti general manager of the Columbia Restaurant on St. Armands Circle for 27 years • Part of the Florida Restaurant and Lodging Association for 20 years, served three years as its president • Volunteer work includes The Center of Anna Maria Island, Anna Maria Island Chamber of Commerce and Anna Maria Elementary School Parent/Teacher Organization • 26-year full-time resident of Holmes Beach Q: Why should voters cast their ballots for you? A: “To elect a well-rounded

individual who will try to offer a balanced approach to issues. I am a 26-year resident of Holmes Beach that can see perspectives as a family man with a wife and five children raised here, but also cognizant of our business community. They are not mutually exclusive.”

PAT MORTON

• Formerly served for 17 years as a Holmes Beach city commissioner, was first elected in 2003 • Formerly served with the United States Morton military and currently works part-time at the Holmes Beach ACE Hardware • Member of the Florida Emergency Preparedness Association and certified by FEMA’s Emergency Management Institute • Previously served as Holmes Beach city commission liaison to Waste Pro, Holmes Beach police pension board and Manatee County Emergency Operations Center • 23-year Holmes Beach resident Q: Why should voters cast their ballots for you? A: “Because I have a tremendous history and proven record in supporting our residents and business owners. Balance is key. Too much legislation to benefit only one aspect of the city will tip the scales in only one direction. I will continue to look at the entire picture. This, after all, is a wonderful place to visit but an even better place to live and raise a family.”

TERRY SCHAEFER

• Incumbent commissioner, first elected in November 2019 • Serves as city commission liaison to the Anna Maria Island Chamber of ComSchaefer merce, Anna Maria Elementary School, The Center of Anna Maria Island, Holmes Beach police pension board. Alternate liaison for legislative matters and the Manatee County Emergency Operations Center • Worked for 35 years in banking and business management • Volunteer work includes 16 years as a public school board member in Belleville, Illinois and 12 years as a board member of the Southwestern Illinois Development Authority • Member of the Key Royale Club and served on the Holmes

Beach Form of Government AdHoc committee Q: Why should voters cast their ballots for you? A: “I believe voters can have the confidence that my deliberations and opinions are based on solid research, fact-finding and the ultimate effect my decisions and vote will have on our community. My knowledge and experience of our city’s operations, gained over the past years’ service, provide the basis of evaluating each issue and deciding what the net benefit to our community will be. I also believe that it is vital to listen to my fellow commissioners’ statements concerning issues prior to my ultimate decision and vote. I have the time and desire to serve the city and will continue to invest the time in preparation for meetings in order to be fully prepared to discuss all agenda items. In addition, I have the lifelong desire to help when and where I can be effective.”

CAROL SOUSTEK

• Incumbent commissioner, first elected in November 2014 • City commission liaison to code compliance, Grassy Point Preserve, Manatee Soustek County Emergency Operations Center, planning commission and parks and beautification committee • Worked as a corporate accountant for more than 50 years • Volunteer work includes Anna Maria Island Turtle Watch and Shorebird Monitoring, Serving Anna Maria and Friends of the Island Library • Served as chair of the Holmes Beach Island Congestion Committee in 2013 Q: Why should voters cast their ballots for you? A: “Much depends on your commissioners taking the right path for you. Please look at my voting record and you will see the ordinances I have voted on. Limited bedrooms in structures to four, larger setbacks between properties, house sizes to lot ratios, noise restrictions, safety on our roads and in our homes, protection of wildlife, dunes and sea oats, reduced parking in our residential areas, better site plans, mask regulations, vacation rental regulations. These are just a few of hundreds.”

SEPTEMBER 29, 2021

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SEPTEMBER 29, 2021

THE SUN

Moriarty joining Anna Maria city staff Mayor Dan Murphy has hired Amy Moriarty to serve as the city of Anna Maria’s new webmaster. On Thursday, Sept. 23, Murphy informed city commissioners of the hiring. He said Moriarty’s expertise includes web analysis and Google analytics. She will also manage the city’s Home Rule Florida website. Based on her legislative expertise, Moriarty will work closely with the city’s legislative lobbyist, Chip Case, on preserving the city’s home rule rights, which include the local regulation of vacation rentals. Moriarty will also assist the city with grant writing. “I’m really excited about this new employee. I think Amy’s going to be a great addition,” Murphy said, noting she previously served as member of the U.S. Air Force. Moriarty begins her new job on Monday, Oct. 13. She spent the past year working as a reporter for The Islander, where her duties included covering the Anna Maria mayor and city commission.

Visit us today! Happy Hour is from 2pm until 5pm! 9707 Gulf Drive, Anna Maria FL. 34216

JOE HENDRICKS | SUN

Local reporter Amy Moriarty has been hired by the city of Anna Maria. “I’m thrilled you’re going to be joining us,” Commissioner Jon Crane said. “I’m surprised, but I’m so thrilled,” Commission Chair Carol Carter added. “I’ve enjoyed covering the city and I’ve appreciated all the input the commissioners have given me when I requested it,” Moriarty said.

THE SUN

REAL ESTATE

SEPTEMBER 29, 2021

Here today, gone tomorrow

f you want to buy a property in the Bradenton-Sarasota area you have to act fast, and I mean lightning fast. Whatever comes on the market today will likely be gone within a week, selling at record-breaking prices every month. None of this is a surprise to buyers who are out there beating the bushes daily or to their agents who are scurrying around looking for properties to satisfy the buyers lined up at their doors. But what’s interesting about some of these buyers is that they are coming from less traditional areas of the country. Local real estate professionals are reporting buyers from California, Washington state and other areas on the west coast of the country. When this was confirmed at the Island Publix check-out when I asked where all these people were coming from, I knew it was true. Further confirmation of our hot market came from CoreLogic when they published the hottest metro areas in the country that people are relocating to. Bradenton-Sara-

Castles in the Sand LOUISE BOLGER sota came in at #14, Tampa at #5 and five other Florida regions were all in the top 15. The New York-Newark-Jersey City region was #1 in loss of residents. Further, the National Association of Realtors reported in their July and August existing home sales reports the four regions of the country that are seeing the most home sales: The South continues to be the highest, maintaining over 40% of the market for both months; the Midwest comes in second at over 20%; the West is third, also over 20% and the Northeast is the lowest, just breaking 10% of the market share. In Manatee County, the sales statistics from the Realtor Association of Sarasota and

Manatee for July are: Single-family homes closed 5.8% fewer properties compared to last year. The median sales price was $430,000, up 19.8%; the average sale price was $566,595, up 19%; the median time to contract was six days, and the month’s supply of properties was .08 months. Condos also closed fewer units, down 6.5%. The median sale price was $250,050, up 13.7%; the average sale price was $309,887, up 14.5%; the median time to contract was six days and the month’s supply of properties was 0.6 months. By comparison, the National Association of Realtors reported the median price of existing single-family home sales for July was $359,900. Now on to August: Single-family homes closed 2.7% fewer homes compared to last year. The median sale price was $430,000, same as July, up 19.4%; the average sale price was $579,647, up 20.5%; the median time to contract was five days and the month’s supply of properties was 0.8 months.

Condos closed 12.2% fewer units; the median price was $275,000, up 23.3%; the average sale price was $302,733, up 15.5%; the median time to contract was seven days and the month’s supply was 0.7 months. By comparison, the National Association of Realtors reported the median price of existing single-family home sales for August was $356,700, slightly down from July. In addition, the Realtor Association of Sarasota and Manatee reported that August was the 15th consecutive month that the price of single-family homes increased for this region. At this point, I don’t think there is any relief for the poor buyers. The fewer properties on the market, the higher the prices will go, resulting in fewer actual sales, as we can see from July and August. Since we’re at the beginning of our busy sale season in Florida, it will be interesting to see where we are with available properties in a few months. Not sure when it will end, but I’m pretty sure you will find out first at the Publix check-out.

SEPTEMBER 29, 2021

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THE SUN

PINEY POINT: 'Closure' not the final word FROM PAGE 1

Manatee and nitrogen and phosphorus, which act as fertilizer for red tide. The toxic algae has caused fish kills and respiratory irritation in and around Tampa Bay, Hamilton the Gulf of Mexico and connected waterways – including around Anna Maria Island – since mid-April. Medium levels of the toxic algae were detected in water samples last week off AMI. “Nutrients cause red tide. There’s no debate about that,” Hamilton said. Since the discharge, the contaminated water is being treated to remove nitrogen and phosphorus in the “unfortunate event” that another discharge becomes necessary, he said. Each time it rains into the open pond, stormwater comes in contact with the contaminated water, increasing its volume, which was 273 million gallons as of Saturday,

Sept. 25. Hamilton said the goal is to prevent stormwater from contacting the contaminated water, “… so you’re talking about getting to a point where the only thing coming off of that site to a large degree is clean stormwater.” More than 2.2 million gallons of treated water have been transported to Manatee County’s North Regional Water Reclamation Facility to keep the pond from overflowing, with stormwater being discharged separately. As of last weekend, the pond had the capacity to store another 9.4 inches of rainfall. “Dewatering” the plant is the first priority for the new receiver, Herbert Donica, a business lawyer and partner of the Tampa-based Donica Law Firm, appointed in August to manage the 466-acre site owned by HRK Holdings LLC. The company is in bankruptcy and is the subject of a repossession, as well as the defendant in two other lawsuits, one brought by FDEP and one by a group of environmental organizations.

A meeting is scheduled on Wednesday, Oct. 6 from 4–7 p.m. at the Manatee County Central Library Auditorium, 1301 Barcarrota Blvd., Bradenton for public comment on the FDEP’s draft permit to allow Manatee County to build a deep injection well for Piney Point’s wastewater. To that end, FDEP issued a draft permit earlier this month for Manatee County to build a deep injection well to contain the contaminated water, which local environmental organizations oppose. Asked about the safety of the well system, Hamilton called it “a proven technology,” adding, “We would not be supportive of anything that directly put our drinking water at risk.” A public meeting is scheduled on Wednesday, Oct. 6 from 4–7 p.m. at the Manatee County Central Library

Auditorium, 1301 Barcarrota Blvd., Bradenton, to allow an opportunity for citizens to provide input on the draft permit as well ask questions and obtain information about the draft permit and permitting process. Anyone unable to attend the meeting in person who wishes to provide public comments in writing can mail them to the Florida Department of Environmental Protection, Aquifer Protection Program, 2600 Blair Stone Road, MS 3530, Tallahassee, Florida 32399-2400.

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THE SUN

SEPTEMBER 29, 2021

Have your say on shorebird regulations Four bird species that nest on Anna Maria Island may be impacted by new guidelines proposed by the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC). The FWC is seeking public comment on its draft Species Conservation Measures and Permitting Guidelines for four state-listed beach-nesting bird species, including the American oystercatcher, snowy plover, least tern and black skimmer. Once approved, the guidelines will be part of Florida’s Imperiled Species Management Plan. All four species are included in one set of draft guidelines, which is now available for review and comment. The guidelines are intended to provide information on rule requirements as they relate to permitting. They also provide information on the species’ range, survey methodology and voluntary practices that can benefit the species. Key information included in the guidelines will be presented at four public webinars. The webinars also offer an opportunity for public questions and feedback. Each webinar

KATHY DODDRIDGE | SUBMITTED

Least tern chicks hatched on Anna Maria Island earlier this year. will offer the same information. Webinars are scheduled for: • Wednesday, Sept. 29, 6-7 p.m. (ET) • Monday, Oct. 11, noon-1 p.m. (ET) Participation in the webinars will require access to a computer or access to a telephone for audio-only access. To learn more about how to attend the webinars, visit: MyFWC. com/Shorebirds. Once available, a

copy of the webinar presentation and draft guidelines will also be available on the website. Written comments will be accepted until Oct. 17. Email comments to Imperiled@MyFWC.com. If you would like to comment but are unable to do so in the specified timeframe, or if you require an alternate format in which to comment or review the draft guidelines, contact Imperiled@MyFWC.com.

Perico Bay Club—As Good As It Gets!!

Business As Usual…..Just A Li le Differently. If you’re looking to buy or sell in Perico Bay Club, or know someone who is, please give me a call!

Give me a call today if you yo ou u’re ’ree lookin looking ngg to Buyy or Sell on Anna Maria Maria Island Mari Islaand or the surrounding ounding ngg aarea! rea eaaa!!

Lynn Zemmer 941 4141 1-730 3030 0-1294 9 94

941.209.1542 I Lynn@Edgewaterami.com 941.730.1294 | Lynn@Edgewaterami.com www.EdgewaterRealEstateInc.com www.EdgewaterRealEstateInc.com Street, Bradenton Beach, FL 34217 106 Bridge

Join the Holmes Beach clean water committee Holmes Beach commissioners are looking for local residents to join a clean water committee with the goal of helping to improve waters in and around Anna Maria Island. Committee members will be appointed by commissioners, with the first appointments to the new committee planned for a Tuesday, Sept. 28 discussion during the regular city commission meeting at 5 p.m. Any resident of Holmes Beach who is interested in learning more about the committee or putting in their application for potential appointment may visit http://cms9.revize.com/ revize/holmesbeachfl/government/general_ government/city_clerk/city_board_and_committee_openings.php or call the city clerk’s office at 941-708-5800. Application submission is currently open-ended until the committee is full. Once the new clean water committee is formed, members will decide when and how frequently they meet. Meetings are expected to take place at Holmes Beach City Hall.

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SEPTEMBER 29, 2021

THE SUN

David Marshall’s legacy honored David Marshall left a lasting impression on the Bradenton Beach community. BY JOE HENDRICKS SUN CORRESPONDENT | jhendricks@amisun.com

BRADENTON BEACH – The life and legacy of longtime Bradenton Beach resident David Marshall was memorialized and celebrated on Saturday. Marshall, 74, was struck by a car while crossing the street near his Bradenton home on Aug. 24. On Sept. 5, he passed away as a result of the injuries he suffered. His memorial service took place Saturday morning at the Harvey Memorial Community Church in Bradenton Beach, followed that afternoon by a celebration of life at the Drift In, where Marshall worked in various capacities for the better part of four decades. During his time in Bradenton Beach, Marshall also worked at the Bridge Tender Inn, Oma’s pizza and the old Sun House restaurant. Known by locals and visitors worldwide for his gregarious personality, his beard and his feathered and decorated hat, Marshall was also well known for playing Santa Claus and Father Time during local holiday events.

MARSHALL EULOGIZED

Led by Pastor Steve King, the memorial service included a eulogy given by Marshall’s step-daughter Roberta Perella, who traveled from her home in Massachusetts.

JOE HENDRICKS | SUN

Roberta Perella, Martha Kelley Marshall and Martha “Marti” Michael appreciate the community’s support during a difficult time. “To know David was to meet an extraordinary person. He was his authentic self and his first impression was him to the core. He was unique and impressionable. His heart and soul were nothing less than kind, caring and peaceful,” Perella stated in her eulogy. “David was also a caring husband. Though they just wed this past June, David and my mom (Martha Kelley Marshall) were together 23 years. They were a unique couple with so much love for one another, and it was evident. As my sister said, our mother has lost her swan,” Perella stated in her eulogy. “The name David means ‘beloved.’ Indeed, he was. David was a legend. David, may we all remember your kindness, love and peace. Please watch over us all on your celestial travels with your wings made of shining gold. And, if we come across a random feather, we’ll always remember to stick it in our hat,” Perella stated in her eulogy.

JOE HENDRICKS | SUN

David Marshall’s life was celebrated at the Drift In on Saturday afternoon. Bradenton Beach Mayor John Chappie and acting Police Chief John Cosby were among those who attended Marshall’s memorial service, and they joined the others in singing “You Are My Sunshine” in Marshall’s honor. “It was an actual celebration of life. It was old Bradenton Beach,” Cosby said.

A LIFE CELEBRATED

The celebration of life included live music by Dos-Macs, a pot-luck dinner, a memory table and wall adorned with photographs of Marshall and his family members and friends, and a memory jar in which people could share their written memories of Marshall.

Perella expressed her gratitude and appreciation for the efforts of Drift In owners Joe and Angela Cuervo and manager Doreen Flynn. “The Cuervos have been nothing but hospitable to my mom and in memory of David having this phenomenal celebration. Doreen did a ton of work coordinating everything and that is so appreciated. I’m overwhelmed by the Privateers bringing their Santa’s Sleigh and having a plaque to hang on the sleigh in David’s honor. David loved his community and he gave back to it in so many different ways. The community is rallying around my mom and you can feel the love.”

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THE SUN

BEACH BEAT HOLMES BEACH

9/14, 1:01 p.m., recovered vehicle, 4700 Gulf Drive. Officers were notified of a U-Haul vehicle parked partially in the roadway. The vehicle was abandoned with hazard lights flashing and no fuel in the tank. After running the plate, officers learned from the Nashville Metro Police Department that the vehicle was stolen. The owner was contacted in Tennessee, and a representative from U-Haul arrived to claim the vehicle. 9/15, 3 a.m., concealed weapon/marijuana possession, 200 Haverkos Lane. The officer on patrol observed a silver truck traveling on Manatee Avenue at a high rate of speed. After stopping the vehicle, the officer smelled marijuana in the truck and asked the driver if he was in possession of marijuana. The suspect admitted to having marijuana with an expired medical marijuana card. He also admit-

ted to having a loaded .40 caliber pistol under the driver’s seat. The officer found five bags of marijuana weighing 27 grams, some paraphernalia and the loaded pistol. The suspect was arrested and transported to Port Manatee Jail without incident. 9/18, 2:26 p.m., shoplifting, 611 Manatee Ave. Officers responded to a call for shoplifting at CVS. The managers stated a male subject reached over the counter and took two bottles of perfume. In addition, the man also took two 12-packs of beer and two bottles of wine then walked out of the store without paying for them. The manager further stated another male subject tried to distract him while he chased the shoplifter out of the store. Officers did a search of the area with no results. 9/19, 2:30 a.m., DUI, 4000 Gulf Drive. The officer was on routine patrol in the parking lot at 4000 Gulf Drive when he observed a Jeep driving through the lot toward the entrance. Since the lot is closed at 10 p.m., this was suspicious behavior. The jeep then exited the

lot through the entrance, which is clearly marked. A traffic stop was conducted and the female driver did not have any of the required paperwork on the vehicle. The driver also had glassy eyes and slurred speech. When asked to take a field sobriety test, the driver refused and was arrested. The driver also refused to provide a breath sample once taken into custody. She was transported to Port Manatee Jail without incident. 9/21, 2:21 p.m., permitting an unauthorized operator to drive a motor vehicle, 4800 Second Ave. While on patrol the officer observed a pre-teen-aged boy driving a golf cart with the assistance of an adult helping to steer from the passenger seat. Upon contact, the officer confirmed the driver was 12 years of age. The adult stated he was teaching the child how to drive. There were two additional 11- and 12-year-old males in the back seat. All occupants were wearing seatbelts. the adult was given a notice to appear in the Manatee County Court and released.

Island population increasing New U.S. Census Bureau data indicates that the population in all three cities on Anna Maria Island is increasing, as well as Manatee County and Florida populations.

2020 2010 Approximate increase Anna Maria 1,775 1,503 18% Bradenton Beach 1,273 1,171 9% Holmes Beach 4,304 3,836 12% Manatee County 399,710 322,833 24% Florida 21,538,187 18,801,310 15% Source: U.S. Census Bureau

SEPTEMBER 29, 2021

OBITUARIES Roy N. Nevans Roy N. Nevans, a food products executive and producer, of Longboat Key, FL and New York, NY and formerly of Greenwich, CT; Rye, NY; and London, died August 27, 2021 at his New York home, surrounded by family. He was 90. Born in NY on July 1, 1931 to Al and Lillian (Schiff) Nevans, Mr. Nevans graduated from Bronx Science High School (1949) and the University of Pennsylvania’s Wharton School of Business (1953), where he roomed with his lifelong best friend, Jeff Rose. He earned an MBA from Columbia University (1957). A devoted U.S. Naval officer, Mr. Nevans served in the Suez Canal area, spent decades in the reserves and retired as a lieutenant commander. He married Virginia Place in 1960. A vice president for marketing and managing director of Henningsen Foods in New York; Waalwijk, the Netherlands; and London (1957-1990), Mr. Nevans was founder and president of Royco International (1991-present) and Teff International. On Broadway (with cousin Albert J. Schiff), Mr. Nevans co-produced Gandhi (1969) and Solitaire/Double Solitaire (1972); on television, produced in London and Los Angeles, Jukebox starring Twiggy and later Britt Ekland (1978-79), and The

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Roots of Rock and Roll (1981 – made part of the permanent collection of the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame in 2011); off-Broadway Fabulous, the Queen of Musical Comedies (2015) and Two by Tennessee Williams (2016), starring Kathryn Luce Garfunkel; and the Elton John concert in Central Park (1980). Mr. Nevans was president of the board of Seaplace Condominiums in Longboat Key, FL (2012-2020) and was a member of the Longboat Key Presidents’ Association. He served on the Board of Directors of Global Education Management, Wall Street Institute and World Trade Club. He was a member of the National Academy of Television Arts and Sciences; U.S. Naval Order; U.S. Naval War College; Penn Club of NY; Jaguar Touring Club; Coveleigh Club (Rye, NY) and River Club (Greenwich, CT). Known for his generosity and love of hosting others, Mr. Nevans at one time maintained homes in Greenwich, CT; Greenwich Village, NY; Longboat Key, FL; and London, all of which he shared with family, friends and friends of friends. He traveled to six continents, was a million-miler on numerous airlines, and especially loved the many decades he split his time between NY and London. An avid boater, he kept boats at Rye Marina and later at Greenwich’s Palmer Point Marina. An ardent sports fan, he held New York Giants season tickets for more than 40 years and was a loyal attendee at the Wimbledon tennis championships, enthusiastically sharing his tickets with

THE SUN

numerous family and friends. He was predeceased in death by his sister, Carol Star Safer. He is survived by his wife, Virginia Nevans (the former Virginia Place), the love of his life for 59 years; three daughters, Lisa Nevans Locke of Bethesda, MD, Laurel Nevans of Holmes Beach, FL, and Jude Nevans Cleaver of Virginia Beach, VA; son-in-law, Patrick Nevans Locke; four grandchildren, Jeremy, Tara, Stuart and Mikey; and 12 nieces and nephews and their families. A funeral with full military honors will be held at Sarasota National Cemetery in Florida in the future. For more information, contact Toale Brothers Funeral Home, https://www. toalebrothers.com/obituaries/. In lieu of flowers, the family suggests that donations be made in memory of Roy Nevans to Florida Studio Theatre (Attn: Development, 1241 North Palm Ave., Sarasota, FL 34236, floridastudiotheatre.org or call 941-366-9017) or the Navy-Marine Corps Relief Society (875 N. Randolph St., Suite 225, Arlington, VA 22203, or online at www.nmcrs.org).

Blanche Alder Moran Vanderzee Blanche Alder Moran Vanderzee passed away peacefully on August 24, 2021. She had reached the amazing age of 100 and had received a multitude of congratulations for this major accom-

plishment. Born in Brooklyn, New York, to Richard and Elizabeth Allen, she was raised in Dobbs Ferry, New York, with her sister, Josephine and brother, Richard. Upon finishing high school, she attended nursing school in New Rochelle, graduating as a fully licensed Registered Nurse. She was inducted into the Army Nurse Corps in 1944 during World War II. While a second lieutenant, she met her future husband Captain Joseph W. Moran, U.S. Army, whom she married in 1945. They had three children, Joseph W. Jr., Robert, and Elizabeth. They resided at 98 Sarles Lane in Pleasantville, New York until 1969 when they moved to Anna Maria Island, Florida. Blanche continued actively nursing until 1980. She was active in church, volunteering at the Island Library, and participating in all types of crafts and home projects. Divorced in 1975, Blanche married Storm Vanderzee in 1980. Blanche is survived by her sons, Joseph (Josh), and his wife, Sue; Rob, and his wife, Bea; as well as grandchildren Sarah and Chad; and great-grandchildren Nickolas, Samantha, Addison and Vincent. Blanche enjoyed making friends, playing games such as Scrabble, backgammon and bridge, doing crafts, going to the beach daily and traveling throughout the world. Memorials in her name should be made to Friends of the Island Library, Holmes Beach, Florida, 34217.

THE SUN

SPORTS

SEPTEMBER 29, 2021

Miz & Hiz Biz/Blalock Walters match-up ends in draw Paddy Wagon (3-1)

BY MONICA SIMPSON SPECIAL TO THE SUN

ANNA MARIA - It was picture day at The Center last Tuesday night and the excitement of youth soccer filled the air as 10 teams took to the pitch for week three action. As the youngest players left the soccer clinic fields, the tweens and teens of the 11- to 14-year-old league took their places to warm up. In the first game of the night on the big field, team Miz & Hiz Biz prepared to face the Blalock Walters squad. Two halves of recreational soccer proved how evenly matched the two teams are at this point in the season. Chad Nunez, for the Miz & Hiz team, scored the first goal of the game off an assist by Stephen Wilson with 9:49 left in the first half of play. As goalie, Wilson was credited with three saves in addition to the assist. With just two minutes left on the scoreboard clock, Blalock Walters’ Mason Moss tied up the score with a goal of his own. Ending the half with the score tied at 1-1, both teams returned to the field ready to battle against former teammates and friends in the youth recreational soccer league. Blalock Walters’ goalie Cale Rudacille finished his first half of work with four great saves. Giving Rudacille time on the field, Moss stepped into the goalkeeper position, making two critical stops of his own in the final 20 minutes of play. In the action-packed game, with solid match-ups on both sides of the game, the second half of play proved

YOUTH SOCCER - WEEK 2 8 -TO 10-YEAR-OLD LEAGUE Tidy MD The Gitt Team

2 0

Beach Bums Moss Builders

0 2

Shady Lady Solid Rock Construction

1 3

11- TO 14-YEAR-OLD LEAGUE

MONICA SIMPSON | SUN

Preparing to score, Blalock Walters' Mason Moss makes the moves to take a shot in the first game last Tuesday night. to be just as exciting as the first with two more goals scored before the last whistle was blown. For Miz & Hiz, Chad Nunez made a shot that got past the goalie for the second team point. Andrew Graham made the statistics sheet with a solid goal shot for Blalock Walters. After each team scored two goals in the second half with Konnor Oelfke making two goals in the game, 40 minutes of regulation play ended in a tie ball game with the score 2-2. The two teams will face each other again in week six of the season on Tuesday, Oct. 12 at 7:30 p.m., the last week of regular season play. The four teams in the league are each practicing and playing hard in hopes of making it to the championship game scheduled for Tuesday, Oct. 26 at a time to be determined.

THURSDAY, SEPT. 16 ADULT CO-ED FLAG FOOTBALL SEMIFINAL PLAYOFF GAMES #5 TBT #1 We The Best Lending

28 22

#3 Rays Ramblings #2 Catalyst

6 14

MONDAY, SEPT. 20 ADULT CO-ED BASKETBALL

Miz & Hiz Biz Anna Maria Island Wines

9 0

HSH Blalock Walters

3 6

TUESDAY, SEPT. 21 YOUTH SOCCER – WEEK 3 8- TO 10-YEAR-OLD LEAGUE

SUN SCOREBOARD

Moss Builders (3-1) Solid Rock Construction (2-2)

35 33

Slim’s Place (2-2) Beach Bums (4-1)

30 50

Sandbar (1-4) Blue Lagoon (0-4)

34 30

bye week

Tidy MD Solid Rock Construction

4 2

Beach Bums The Gitt Team

1 2

Moss Builders Shady Lady

1 1

11- TO 14-YEAR-OLD LEAGUE Miz & Hiz Biz Blalock Walters

2 2

HSH Anna Maria Island Wines

1 3

SEPTEMBER 29, 2021

FUN IN THE SUN

Across 1 Gull relatives 6 Spots to fast-forward through 11 Cleopatra's killer 14 Sharply inclined 15 Trip odometer function 16 Chinese steamed bun 17 *Realtor's client 19 Category 20 Rural stopover 21 __ d'Alene, Idaho 22 "Well, gosh!" 24 Social reformer Jacob 26 *Surface for slicing rye, say 28 Body ink 30 Eye part that may become detached 31 Golf's Slammin' Sammy 32 Karma 35 Vegas' "one-armed Answers to 09-22-21 Crossword Puzzle.

bandit" 36 *Vehicle's rear warning lamp 39 Head or tooth pain 42 Pick out with care 43 Aficionados 47 "Ye Olde" retailer 49 Lose its fizz, as soda 50 *Feline metaphor for an empty threat 54 Pâté de __ gras 55 Goodnight woman of song 56 "The __ Wears Prada": 2006 film 58 "__ you awake?" 59 Vied for office 60 Certain brain tissue, or what each half of the answers to the starred clues can be 63 Pre-marital (just barely) promise 64 Parisian love 65 Reagan attorney general Ed

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66 After taxes 67 Easy victories 68 Medicare Rx section Down 1 Tops with slogans 2 Ian Fleming or George Orwell, schoolwise 3 Get the old gang together 4 Old Nintendo game console: Abbr. 5 Job detail, briefly 6 More accurate 7 Change of __: trial request 8 Stars, in Latin 9 Lousy grade 10 Flasher at a disco 11 1797-1801 first lady Adams 12 City near Naples 13 Prodded 18 Stereotypical boxcar hopper 23 1979 Donna Summer hit 25 Local govt. prison 27 Bit of wine sediment 29 "Ghost" psychic __ Mae Brown 32 Winter malady 33 "__ My Children" 34 Shop __ you drop 37 Rapper/actor whose name sounds like a summer drink 38 "Westworld" network 39 Pill for pain 40 Pantomimed act in a parlor game

41 "Sure wish that doesn't happen" 44 Pool noodle, e.g. 45 "... who is the __ one of all?": Evil Queen 46 Manned the helm

48 Like the Great Depression, timewise 49 Like the Reaper 51 Figure of speech 52 Hop out of bed 53 Activist Medgar

57 Tanning device 61 Medical ins. plan 62 Scone go-with

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CLASSIFIED

ANNOUNCEMENTS BEACH YOGA ON Saturdays & Sundays at 8:30am at the end of Pine Ave by the Sandbar Restaurant by donation. www. thriveyogafit.com AMI TURTLE WATCH needs donations & silent action items for our FUNDRAISER. Accepting Donations at Holmes Beach City Police Department at the back door. We can pick up! Call or text Linda 863-287-1133 THE BEST VOLUNTEER position on the island. The AMI Historical Museum needs docents and bread makers. Call Kathy Primeau at 989-560-6381. ROSER FOOD BANK needs donations of cash and non-perishable food, PAPER & PERSONAL HYGIENE PRODUCTS. Donations boxes are located at the Church, Moose Club, and Walgreen’s.

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

CLEANING SERVICE THC CLEANING : Residential, Commercial, Rentals, VRBO. Professional and Reliable. Call 941-756-4570 or 941565-3931

COMMERCIAL SALES, RENT & LEASE HAVE YOU BEEN thinking of selling? We NEED properties to List for SALE!!! Duplexes, multi family, small resorts? Call BIG Alan Galletto of Island Real Estate to get it SOLD 941-232-2216

EMPLOYMENT TIMBER CREEK GOLF COURSE challenging scenic Par 3. PT pro shop/cashier position. Golf privileges included. Call Dave 941405-9199

Call us today! 941-778-3986

HELP WANTED FRIENDLY, Experienced Esthetican’s and Front desk help wanted. Leah Chavie Skin Care and Spa 6646 Cortez Rd W. Call Leah 312-513-3772

FOR SALE 10KW 3-PHASE ALTERNATOR. 60hz 220v. $265 OBO Call 941-538-8460.

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

GARAGE, MOVING, RUMMAGE & YARD SALES JEWLERY ONLY YARD SALE Saturday, October 2. 8:30 until 3pm. 10315 Cortez Road W. 51 First St. Bradenton. Large selection slightly used. Made by Linda Jewelry.

HEALTH CARE HOME CARE PROVIDER with Dennis Church a nursing assistant. 8+ years of experience. Licensed in Florida. SAFER at HOME. Call 815-519-3993

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 941-778-1115 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.

SEPTEMBER 29, 2021

“HAMMERED HOMES” (SAVING HOMES SINCE 1984) Handyman services, renovations. Free Estimates & Consulting. Call before making decision, save money. 941-778-3206

“WIZARD OF WALLS” Established 1980 Prompt quality service. Paperhanging/removal Faux finishes. Interior painting. Mary Bell Winegarden 941-794-0455

KITCHEN CABINET DOORS & REFACING - Made in USA products - AMI Local - call 941-713-0661.

PROFESSIONAL PAINTING SERVICES. Prompt & Reliable. Island Resident. Quality Workmanship. Interior/Exterior. Also minor repairs & carpentry. Free written detailed estimates. Bill Witaszek 941-307-9315

LANDSCAPING & LAWN CARE R. GAROFALO’S Interlocking brick pavers, driveways, patios, pool decks. Free estimates. Licensed & Insured. Call Rafael 941-778-4823 or Veronik 941-526-7941 ISLAND RESIDENT. TREE/ BUSH Trimming, removal. Sweeping, blowing, weeding. Weekly, bi-monthly or monthly schedule. Pressure washing: driveways, walkways, fences, pool decks/ cages. Call Bill Witaszek 941-307-9315.

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

LOST & FOUND

POOL SERVICES

FOUND TURTLE INLAYED silver/platinum ring with inscription ( Pease identity text to confirm). Found on Palm Harbor Dr near Manatee Public Beach. Call 540-312-5299.

FOUR SEASONS POOL SERVICE AND CHEMICAL SERVICES. Certified Pool Operator. 10 + Years Experience. Residential/commercial. Chemical Service Licensed & Insured. Call Dennis Clark 941-7375657

LOST ON MANATEE BEACH. 18" herringbone chain (4mm thick, square link, round clasp, 10k) with 3/4" Spanish gold coin pendant. Please call 585-755-3894. Contact Dennis LOST MEN'S GOLD wedding band in shallow water just south of new rock groin on beer can island. Very sentimental. Reward, call 941-504-0526

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

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 Have you been thinking of selling? We NEED properties to List for SALE!!! GULF FRONT, CANAL FRONT, BAY FRONT CONDOS or HOMES ASK for BIG Alan Galletto of Island Real Estate to get it SOLD 941-232-2216 LOOKING FOR A highly motivated real estate broker to buy or sell your next home? Darcie Duncan, Broker Duncan Real Estate a lifelong island resident bringing success to her customers for 30 years. Proven track record brings you results! 941-725-1589

REALTOR FOR HIRE. BUYING OR SELLING on AMI? 17 years experience & USAF Veteran. Call Kelly Gitt Keller Williams Realty today 941-799-9299.

RENTALS: ANNUAL ANNUAL RENTALS WANTED! We have well qualified tenants for beach and mainland annual rentals, Full management or Finders fee. Call today for details. Ask for Paige DUNCAN REAL ESTATE 513-3821992.

RENTALS: SEASONAL & VACATION TIFFANY PLACE Gulf Front Condo for Rent Incredible views from living room and master bedroom. 2BR/2BA Green Real Estate Call 941-778-0455

SEASONAL RENTAL in PALMA SOLA. 3BR/2BA weekly or monthly rates. Contact Barb Grace 941201-2190 ANNA MARIA ISLAND CONDOS Large pool, beach access, free WiFi, 1&2 Bedroom $700/$800/$900 a wk. redekercondosonami. com Tim 941-704-7525

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

SEPTEMBER 29, 2021

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Anna Maria Island Sun September 29, 2021

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