Just when you thought there wasn’t any good news for the local fishwrap, along comes some uplifting bits of information.
Just take a look at The Sun’s front page this week.
First, Island native Jason Sato wins top real estate salesperson in Manatee County for 2017.
Next, our local fire department honors the best of the best within its ranks, recognizing the amazing job these first responders do year in and year out.
And finally, the city of Anna Maria is included in Coastal Living Magazine’s 10 “happiest seaside towns in America.”
Not a bad collection of good news for one week.
Sato, whose office is on Pine Avenue, was recognized as the top real estate seller in Manatee County for the third year in a row. He grew up on the Island and after earning a college degree in business, he turned to real estate, opening Sato Real Estate with his mother, Barb.
Sato knows what buyers are looking for because he has been living the dream all his life. He said he is seeing more buyers purchase homes for their own use, a good trend for the future of the Island. He also acts as an ambassador to the buyers because of his local background. Nice going Jason.
West Manatee Fire Rescue also handed out its honors recently. Firefighter Jeff Philips was named Firefighter of the Year for adapting to his new assignment with the department’s marine unit. He also works at the fire school at Manatee Technical College.
Richard Losek, a 30-year veteran, was recognized as Officer of the Year for his dedication. Fire Chief Tom Sousa said Losek tries to move the department forward every day.
Buddy Bowen was honored with the Meritorious Service Award for his additional work as union representative and working on health and safety issues at the department.
These are people who work hard every day to make life on our Island paradise a little better.
And while some may agree or disagree with the “happiest seaside town in America” designation for Anna Maria, it’s all in good fun and should be taken as such.
As for the honorees in the other categories, a hearty congratulations to you and continued success. What you do enhances Anna Maria Island for everyone.
