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Year: 2020

Anna Maria Island bars ordered to close again

Anna Maria Island bars ordered to close again

Written by Joe Hendricks on . Posted in Business, Restaurants | Bars.

ANNA MARIA ISLAND – On Friday, the Florida Department of Business and Professional Regulation (DBPR) enacted an emergency order that once again prohibits bars, pubs, night clubs and other non-restaurant establishments from selling alcohol for consumption on premises.

In an effort to curtail the spread of COVID-19, Gov. Ron DeSantis issued an executive order on March 17 doing the same, but lifted it on June 5.

On Anna Maria Island, the second round of statewide bar closures impacts the Drift In, Sports Lounge, Tommy Knockers and the AMI Moose Lodge in Bradenton Beach and the Anchor Inn, Dcoy Ducks and The Doctor’s Office in Holmes Beach.

Issued late Friday morning and effective immediately, DBPR Order 2020-09 says, “All vendors licensed to sell alcoholic beverages for consumption on the premises who derive more than 50% of gross revenue from such sales of alcoholic beverages shall suspend such sales of alcoholic beverages for consumption on premises. Such vendors may continue to sell alcoholic beverages in sealed containers for consumption off premises in accordance with Executive Order 20-71.

“Vendors who are also licensed as public food service establishments or restaurants may continue to operate for on-premise consumption of food and beverages at tables so long as these vendors derive 50% or less of gross revenue from the sale of alcoholic beverages for on premises consumption,” the order says.

The DBPR order explains the reasoning behind these actions.

“Under Phase 2, bars and other vendors licensed to sell alcoholic beverages for consumption on the premises were given permission to operate at 50% of their indoor capacity so long as they provided seated service only.

“The governor directed the Department of Business and Professional Regulation to enforce restrictions in Executive Order 20-139. During the month of June, the number of individuals testing positive for COVID-19 increased significantly in the State of Florida, especially among younger individuals, and some of these cases involving younger individuals are suspected to have originated from visits to bars, pubs or nightclubs who have disregarded the restrictions set forth in Phase 2 of the Safe. Smart. Step-by-Step plan for Florida’s recovery.

“Non-compliance by bars and other vendors licensed to sell alcoholic beverages for consumption on premises is suspected throughout the state to such a degree as to make individualized enforcement efforts impractical and insufficient at this time,” the DBPR order says.

During his Friday afternoon press conference, Gov. Ron DeSantis mentioned the increased number of younger people testing positive for COVID-19 but he did not directly address the bar closures. He simply made a passing reference to an unnamed action taken that day by the DBPR president.

Local reaction

With no advance notice, Sports Lounge bartender Courtney McGough finds herself unemployed again.

“This is so devastating to bartenders and bar owners. We followed all the guidelines that were asked of us and we even hired a door man seven days a week to help us stay at 50% capacity. It’s just not fair,” she said Friday afternoon.

Anna Maria Island bars ordered to close again
The Sports Lounge in Bradenton Beach was among those forced to close on Friday. – Joe Hendricks | Sun

Anchor Inn owner Darla Tingler said, “There’s nothing to say except this is unbelievable.”

“I’m so upset I can barely comment,” Drift In manager Doreen Flynn said.

Flynn said Drift In owners Joe and Angie Cuervo were equally surprised and upset.

“Our employees are all texting me and they just can’t believe this is happening again. They are wondering how they’re going to pay their bills and whether they go back on unemployment,” Flynn said.

Flynn questions the fairness of restaurants still being allowed to sell alcohol while the bars are forced to close.

“This is not going to slow the spread of the virus. All this does is change where our customers go to drink,” Flynn said.

The AMI Moose Lodge reopened on Friday, June 12 – one week after the other Island bars reopened.

“I am very disappointed in our system,” Lodge Administrator Byron Dalton said. “It appears the right hand doesn’t know what the left hand is doing. How are we supposed to pay our employees and pay our bills? We just restocked our coolers and freezers and there’s a lot of money invested in the products we will lose.”

Jason Benn is the bar manager at the Anna Maria Island Beach Café at Manatee Beach in Holmes Beach. That establishment remains open, but Benn sympathizes with others in the industry.

“With the spike in cases, I can understand taking steps to get the numbers back under control, but I do not feel it is right to take away one type of business. I think it is wrong for those to suffer who are doing to the right things and taking extra steps to be safe,” Benn said.

“I hope the bar owners and bar employees are able to get help and assistance much easier this time. I know some that have still not heard or got anything from the first shutdown. And the bars have only been back open since June 5,” he added.

DBPR order 2020-09 can be viewed or downloaded here.

Explore Italy with ‘Viaggio in Sicilia’

Written by SUN contributor on . Posted in Entertainment, Writing.

A new poetry book brings the beauty and culture of Italy to life, immersing readers in stories of Sicily.

“Viaggio in Sicilia,” “Trip to Sicily” in English, is the first book of poetry released by author Antonello di Carlo with publisher CTL Editore Livorno. The book explores the beauty of di Carlo’s native Sicily through verse and photos of the island, with a heavy emphasis on his personal connection to and the history of the area.

“But between you, me and the sea,

obsolete a sweet remembrance emerges.

The waves cradle us happily,

leaving our limbs

satisfied and soothed

from the pain inflicted by the distance

and by mutual desire hidden

from motionless appearance

who, like an expert charmer,

a hypnotic addiction reawakens us

that stiffens all our cannons

and that does not allow us to free ourselves

from our demons.

Now, while listening to the sea,

Suddenly… you can hear your heart beat.”

– Excerpt from “Viaggio in Sicilia”

The first of four books coming to bookshelves in the coming months, “Viaggio in Sicilia” explores di Carlo’s deep familial connection to the area. Born in Palermo in 1974, it wasn’t until 2019 when di Carlo says he discovered his passion for writing, particularly poetry. Other passions include history and philosophy, both of which are evident in his writing. In addition to his work as a poet and author, di Carlo also works as a business consultant in his current home of Reggio Nell Emilia.

Inspired heavily by famed German writer Johann Wolfgang von Goethe, reviews of di Carlo’s poetry is likened to that written by Goethe as the writer recounted his own travels through Sicily. Through verse, di Carlo brings to life the Sicily of his childhood and his imagination, bringing readers on the journey through the idyllic area with him.

If di Carlo’s name sounds familiar, it may be because Islanders are familiar with his family. His cousin, Jenny Agnelli, is a big supporter of di Carlo and his work as a poet.

“His poetry becomes full stories and it feels like you’re in the story,” she said of his latest work in “Viaggio in Sicilia.”

Through Agnelli, di Carlo has been introduced to Anna Maria Island from her photographs and stories of the area. She said he plans to visit the Island for the first time in the fall.

“Viaggio in Sicilia” is available online now at Amazon in both English and Italian editions in paperback and Kindle formats. You also can check out the book, including reviews, online at Goodreads.

Anna Maria enacts mandatory mask order

Anna Maria enacts mandatory mask order

Written by Joe Hendricks on . Posted in Anna Maria, Community News, Featured.

UPDATED June 28, 2020 at 2:41 p.m. ANNA MARIA – The Anna Maria City Commission has enacted a seven-day emergency order that mandates face masks be worn inside spaces beginning at 8 a.m. on Saturday.

Mayor Dan Murphy presented the proposed mask order to the commission during tonight’s city commission meeting.

The commission unanimously supported the mayor’s suggestion for an emergency mask order rather than an emergency mask ordinance.

“I hereby declare that every person working, living, visiting or doing business in the city of Anna Maria shall wear a face covering in any indoor location, other than their home or residence excluding family members or companions,” Emergency Order #33 says.
The order, drafted by City Attorney Becky Vose, contains the following exceptions:

  • Persons under the age of two years;
  • Persons for whom a face covering would cause impairment due to an existing health condition;
  • Persons working in a business or profession who do not have interactions with other persons;
  • Persons working in an office when all interactions with others are done with social distancing as recommended by the CDC;
  • Persons while eating and/or drinking at a restaurant; provided, however, that face coverings must otherwise be worn in restaurants.

Commissioner Amy Tripp noted that when she dined at Shore restaurant in Longboat Key patrons wore their masks while waiting inside to be seated and while making their way to their tables.

Commission Chair Carol Carter pointed out that Ginny’s and Jane E’s in Anna Maria already requires patrons to wear masks until they sit down at a table to eat or drink.

“We’re in a small city, our residents our older and many of them have other health issues. We need to do this. On this Island, the visitors are the ones who are not obeying any sort of rules regarding social distancing or face masks,” Carter said.

During public comment, Carter’s husband, Bob Carter, said federal, state and county governments have ceded much of the COVID-19 decision-making power to city officials.

“The safety of the residents is foremost in my mind. We are the targeted group on this Island with the combinations of age, health and with what I call the COVID-19 delivery system every seven days arriving. We’re more susceptible than many other parts of the county. I think it’s late to do this, but somebody important once said there’s never a wrong time to do the right thing,” he said.

Vose noted the order applies to retail establishments.

“Violations of this order shall be punished by a fine of $50 per violation assessed against a person not wearing a face covering when required,” the emergency order says.

Regarding the $50 fine, Mayor Dan Murphy said the city’s goal is to achieve compliance and not to generate significant fine revenues by issuing citations. The mask order will be enforced by the city’s code enforcement officers.

The mask order does not apply to outdoor areas.

Murphy said the city will provide, upon request, signs to Anna Maria businesses that reference the emergency order.

The mask order will be reviewed every seven days and will be tweaked and adjusted as needed. The commission is scheduled to review the mask order again for potential revision on Thursday, July 2 at 10 a.m. If deemed still needed, the mask order can be extended for additional seven-day periods.

The order can also be rescinded at any time.

The emergency mask order was enacted in accordance with the city’s amended declaration of emergency that was first enacted on March 26 as part of the city’s efforts to reduce the potential spread of COVID-19.

Holmes Beach logo OLD

Face masks/coverings required in Holmes Beach

Written by SUN contributor on . Posted in Community News, Featured, Holmes Beach.

HOLMES BEACH – Beginning today anyone entering a restaurant or other business in Holmes Beach has to wear a face mask to help slow the spread of COVID-19, with a few exceptions.

If you are in a situation where you can’t social distance outside, maintaining a space of at least 6 feet from others not in your family or group, a face mask also is required.

And while police and code compliance officers will only be giving warnings over the weekend, beginning at 5 p.m. on Sunday, June 28, officers will give a warning followed by a $250 fine for a second offense and $500 for subsequent offenses.

Commissioners voted unanimously during an emergency meeting held virtually to adopt an emergency ordinance requiring people in the city to wear face masks inside businesses and when they can’t maintain proper social distancing outside. There’s an exception to the rule for people with a medical condition that prevents them from being able to safely wear a mask and for children under 2 years old.

While masks are required when entering a restaurant, they can be removed once patrons are seated to allow for eating and drinking.

The new rules don’t apply just to patrons, they also apply to workers at local businesses.

Everyone who is not exempt from the rule and is required to wear a mask should wear one that covers both the nose and mouth. It can be a surgical mask, homemade cloth mask, gaiter or bandana.

While police and code compliance officers will be able to issue warnings and tickets to individuals who are not compliant with the new mask regulations, Police Chief Bill Tokajer said the officers’ first priority is education about the mask requirements with enforcement by levying fines reserved as a last resort for people who refuse to abide by the mask regulations.

City Attorney Tom Thanus, sitting in for Patricia Petruff, said that the ordinance goes into effect as soon as it’s approved by commissioners and the mayor, however, it must be published before it becomes enforceable, leading to Sunday afternoon being the date enforcement can begin.

Commissioner Jim Kihm said he liked being able to give time to officers for the education of local business owners and residents before beginning enforcement of the ordinance.

Unless the ordinance is extended, it automatically expires in 61 days.

Tokajer said the city is printing up signs to be made available to business owners to place at the entrances of their businesses. He equated wearing a mask to the “no shirt, no shoes, no service” rule employed by many businesses. He added that anyone who receives a fine for not wearing a mask will be able to appeal the fine by appearing before the special magistrate.

Mayor Judy Titsworth said she’s spoken with Manatee County Commissioner Carol Whitmore, whom she said put her support behind the mask ordinance. On June 23 and again on June 24 Manatee County commissioners voted to leave the county mask requirements as a suggestion to wear a mask in public rather than a mandate.

Commissioners all expressed their thanks to city staff for getting the ordinance together so quickly and for their support for the requirement to wear masks.

“If wearing a mask would save a life, why would you not do it?” Commissioner Carol Soustek said, adding that the commissioners are charged with protecting residents.

Commissioner Kim Rash cited information from the Centers for Disease Control, Mayo Clinic and Cleveland Clinic that all recommended wearing masks over the nose and mouth to slow the spread of COVID-19 in addition to frequent handwashing and sanitization practices.

“My top priority is the safety of the people and residents of Holmes Beach,” he said, adding that the recent spike in COVID-19 cases in Manatee County was a cause for concern.

Some members of the public also spoke up during the meeting from both sides of the issue.

“I think this is way overdue,” said Richard Motzer, a retired paramedic. “You have to look at everyone, not just yourself.”

“I applaud this move,” Gale Tedhams said. “The data does show action needs to be taken.” She added that she and others she knows are making the decision to patronize businesses based on whether or not staff members are wearing masks.

“I think the mask thing is way overrated,” Richard Hosterman said. Vicki McIntyre said that she feels each person should be able to make their own decision regarding wearing masks. Maria DiMenna said that she also thinks it’s too much for the local government to try to control people’s actions.

“If people are that fearful, they need to stay home,” she said.

Commissioner Terry Schaefer said that while he is in favor of requiring masks in businesses and when social distancing isn’t an option, he said he’d received many comments on the issue, including some that threatened legal action against the city if a mask ordinance was enacted. Thanus addressed the issue, stating that he believes the ordinance is legally sound and would stand up to a test in court.

“If we all do it we’re protecting each other and can finally get this thing under control, at least in our community,” Commissioner Jim Kihm said, urging everyone to wear masks correctly and make sure to clean cloth masks or change disposable ones.

As of June 24, the city of Holmes Beach saw a jump in COVID-19 cases from one to five, with six cases in Bradenton Beach.

Related coverage

State health officer: ‘Wear your mask’

County commission has no plans to make masks mandatory

Spike in COVID-19 cases follows reopenings

County commission has no plans to make masks mandatory

County commission has no plans to make masks mandatory

Written by Joe Hendricks on . Posted in Community News, Manatee County.

MANATEE COUNTY – This afternoon, Manatee County commissioners informally discussed face masks as they pertain to the COVID-19 pandemic, but no commissioner proposed making masks mandatory or pursuing a county ordinance that would enact such a law.

“I wish every person would have a sense of personal responsibility that they could cause the death of somebody by bringing this home. Do I think it’s right to have an ordinance that mandates you wear a mask? No, because I don’t think it will do any good. As your chair of the Manatee County Board of Commissioners, I think you should wear a mask when you’re out in public,” Commission Chair Betsy Benac said.

Commissioner Misty Servia proposed the commission collectively issue and continue to issue a public health alert using the reverse 911 system and various other communication platforms at the county’s disposal.

When reading aloud her proposed public health alert, Servia said, “COVID-19 is a highly contagious virus and currently a worldwide pandemic with no cure. The current death rate of positive cases in Manatee County is 10%. Manatee County urges all businesses to require patrons and staff, as well as our citizens, to take these smart steps to keep yourself, your family and our community safe:

  • Frequently wash your hands;
  • Don’t touch your face;
  • Maintain a 6-foot social distance from others;
  • Wear a mask when inside buildings and public transit;
  • Avoid large crowds as much as possible:
  • Our vulnerable populations should remain safer at home much as possible.”

Servia’s motion received some initial support but eventually died without a second from another commissioner.

Benac noted business owners have the right to require employees and patrons to wear masks, but that remains a decision each business owner must make.

Public Safety Director Jake Sauer said Florida Surgeon General Scott Rivkees recently issued a statement similar to Servia’s proposed health alert.

https://amisun.com/2020/06/22/state-health-officer-wear-your-mask/

Servia said she was OK if the commission wanted to issue Rivkees’ message instead of the public health alert she drafted.

Commissioner Priscilla Trace made a motion directing Sauer and County Administrator Cheri Coryea to come up with some form of public health statement to be presented to the commission no later than the conclusion of the commission’s land use meeting on Wednesday, June 24.

The commission voted 5-2 in favor of Trace’s motion. Commissioner Carol Whitmore and Steve Jonsson opposed the motion.

Whitmore said she wanted more time to consider what was being proposed. Jonsson did not explain his vote, but during the discussion, he expressed his opposition to mandatory masks. He questioned how a mandatory mask requirement could be enforced and he stressed the importance of each individual taking personal responsibility for protecting themselves and their loved ones.

During the meeting, Sauer told commissioners positive COVID-19 cases and the percentage of positive tests continue to rise in Manatee County. He said those numbers rose significantly in the past week or so and are not attributed to increased testing.

Eight people have tested positive for COVID-19 in Bradenton Beach and Holmes Beach, while no cases have been reported in Anna Maria, according to the Florida Department of Health. As of this morning, Florida had 111,973 reported cases with 3,333 deaths. Manatee County had 2,135 reported cases with 129 deaths.

“This indicates we have sustained community spread within our younger age groups,” Sauer told the commission.

Be ready if a hurricane strikes

Written by SUN contributor on . Posted in Community News, Weather.

MANATEE COUNTY – Emergency Management Chief Steve Litschauer joined forces with Director Jake Saur and Manatee County Commissioner Carol Whitmore on Monday, June 22 to help prepare residents in the event a hurricane comes to the area.

While many things have stayed the same, such as the need to have food, water, medicine and other supplies for each member of your household, including pets, some things are changing this year due to COVID-19.

Shelters

One of the major changes this year is that the county emergency shelter capacity is reduced to 35% due to social distancing procedures. And while social distancing will be employed at shelters, Whitmore said that doesn’t mean that people coming to shelters will be safe from contracting the virus, even while wearing a mask.

“Shelters should be used as a refuge of last resort,” Litschauer said, asking that anyone who can go somewhere else outside of the evacuation zone make plans to do so now, before a storm strikes. If you must go to a shelter, you must bring all personal items including bedding, a cot or mattress, sanitary supplies and other necessary items.

Anyone who would need to go to a medical special needs shelter is advised to sign up now to make sure that space and equipment are available for them in case of a storm. Medical special needs shelters are open only to those who are oxygen dependent, electricity dependent or who suffer from Alzheimer’s or dementia. One caregiver or family member is allowed to accompany the patient, as well as a pet. To sign up, visit www.mymanatee.org/needs.

Sheltering in place and evacuating

If you live in a storm surge flood zone or a mobile/manufactured home and a hurricane comes this way, be prepared to evacuate. If you must evacuate, Litschauer says to go 10s of miles, not 100s of miles. He suggested planning to stay with a friend or family member or hotel outside of the evacuation zone but close enough that you don’t risk getting trapped in traffic during the storm or running out of gas in heavy traffic. If you do leave, take your hurricane kit with you and leave as early as possible to avoid long traffic delays.

If you can, Litschauer recommends sheltering in place at your home. Cover the windows and doors, if not hurricane windows, with plywood or hurricane shutters. Secure loose gutters, downspouts and loose shingles. Bring in your lawn furniture and anything that could become a flying projectile in the storm. Make sure your vehicles have a full tank of gas and that you have gas for your generator, if you have one. Trim tree limbs that could fall on your house and secure your garage door. Get sandbags early and use them to prevent water from creeping into your home underneath doorways.

To know your evacuation level, get information about the year your home was built, where your local shelters are, locations for sandbag pickup and other information helpful in an emergency, visit www.mymanatee.org/resident/information and enter your home address. To find out what local shelters and sandbag locations are open, visit www.mymanatee.org/emergencyinfo.

The year your home was built is valuable information in a storm emergency because it tells you what Manatee County building codes were in effect when it was built and estimates its wind resistance, not factoring in improvements, such as a new roof. Houses built before March 2002 were built to withstand 90-110-mile-per-hour winds at minimum standards. From March 2002-2012 those standards were raised to 130 mph. In March 2012, those standards were raised again to 150 mph where they currently stay.

Hurricane kits

Another change this year is that it’s now recommended to have enough food, drinking water, sanitary supplies, medicine and medical supplies for each member of your family for seven to 10 days, an increase from the previously recommended three to five days supply. If you have children, make sure to have comfort items, toys/games and kid-friendly foods in your kit. For pets, make sure to have food, water, a manual can opener, a copy of your pets’ medical records, a recent picture of you with the pet, a carrier or crate big enough for the animal to stand and turn around in, litter and a litter box, a collar with tags and leash and any favorite toys or blankets and bedding.

New this year is the requirement to also have masks, hand sanitizer and gloves to last up to a week.

If you take prescription medication, make sure to bring your medicine bottles with you in case you need a refill after the storm passes.

Litschauer recommends preparing now for a storm, not waiting until one is almost here, warning that some storms can turn into major hurricanes in as little as three days.

“Three days is not enough time to prepare and make your decision,” he said. “That’s why we want you to be prepared now.”

Emergency response

Emergencies don’t stop for a hurricane, but residents should only dial 911 to report an immediate emergency, such as a fire, theft, medical emergency or other life-threatening situation. Keep in mind that during a storm event, fire and EMS staff will not be able to respond to an emergency once wind speeds are sustained at 45 mph or higher. Law enforcement officials are required to stop responding to emergencies once wind speeds are sustained at 55 mph or higher.

For general questions, to learn what shelters are open, to find a sandbag location or learn what evacuations have been announced, call 311. You also can use 311 to find out utility information or ask questions about Manatee County government.

Manatee County government and its various departments also can be found on social media. On Facebook, look for Manatee County Government. On Twitter and Instagram, follow @ManateeGov.

To receive emergency alerts to your phone, text “ManateeReady” to 888777 or visit www.mymanatee.org/emergency to sign up for Code Red.

Visit www.toinformfamiliesfirst.org to register your emergency contact information for first responders in case of an emergency or accident.

To view a recording of the June 22 town hall meeting, visit www.mymanatee.org/townhall.

State health officer: ‘Wear your mask’

Written by Sun staff on . Posted in Community News, Featured, Health.

UPDATED June 23, 2020 at 9:58 p.m.

In response to rising COVID-19 cases, “All individuals in Florida should wear face coverings in any setting where social distancing is not possible,” with very limited exceptions, Florida Surgeon General Dr. Scott Rivkees said in a public health advisory on June 20.

Manatee Beach cafe closed due to COVID-19

 

The Anna Maria Island Beach Café at Manatee Beach in Holmes Beach is closed until further notice due to an employee testing positive for COVID-19. While employees have been required to wear masks and the café’s management has employed increased cleaning protocols and social distancing for diners, management announced on social media June 22 that the café is voluntarily closed until all employees have been tested, the building has been disinfected and a plan to reopen safely can be implemented.

Everyone over 65 or with high-risk health conditions such as lung, heart, kidney or liver disease, asthma or diabetes, among other conditions, “should limit personal interactions outside of the home and take all measures to limit the risk of exposure to COVID-19,” according to the statement.

Measures include wearing a mask, social distancing of at least 6 feet, frequently washing hands for at least 20 seconds, using hand sanitizer with at least 60% alcohol, and frequently cleaning and disinfecting high-touch surfaces.

The advisory discourages gatherings of more than 50 people and states, “For all gatherings of fewer than 50 people, individuals should practice social distancing by maintaining a distance of at least six feet from each other and wear a face covering.”

Eight people have tested positive for COVID-19 in Bradenton Beach and Holmes Beach, while no cases have been reported in Anna Maria, according to the Florida Department of Health. As of today, Florida had 111,973 reported cases with 3,333 deaths. Manatee County had 2,135 reported cases with 129 deaths.

Related coverage

Spike in COVID-19 cases follow reopenings

Reel Time

Reel Time: Line, leaders and hooks

Written by Rusty Chinnis on . Posted in Outdoors, Reel Time.

While rods, reels, lures and accessories are most often discussed when it comes to an angler’s resources, lines, leaders and hooks are an integral part of the equation.

Line connects the angler to the action and three choices are available – braid, monofilament, and fluorocarbon. While fluorocarbon, monofilament and braided lines were created to spool reels, fluorocarbon is most often used as a leader material. Each has its advantages and disadvantages and anglers should choose them based on their fishing style and use.

Monofilament has been around for decades and is probably the most commonly used line. It has many advantages and a few disadvantages that will affect the angler’s choice. Chief among its advantages are affordability and the fact that it sinks slowly and is more forgiving (stretches), making it less likely to break when shocked. Its disadvantages include the fact that it is less durable, has a larger diameter and can’t be cast as far.

Braided lines have made significant inroads since their introduction in the early ’90s. They are constructed of a special blend of polyethylene fibers. Some brands are wound loosely while others are fused. Braided lines are extremely durable, with no stretch. The unfused lines are generally suppler, while the fused ones are stiffer but less likely to wrap around guides and form knots during casting, one of the disadvantages of braided lines. When using braid, it’s important to be aware that no loops form on your reel, a sure sign of trouble to come. It’s also wise to raise the rod tip to tighten the line after a cast and before retrieving.

Braided lines are much stronger than mono lines, so pound for pound they have a much smaller diameter. In order to get the line to spool on the reel like mono it is necessary to choose a matching diameter, which will be much stronger than the equivalent an angler is used to. Most anglers choose to go with a matching line test (i.e. smaller diameter line) and add a base of mono on the spool. That way you don’t have to use extra braid that will never see the light of day.

The major advantage of braided lines is that they don’t stretch and are more sensitive, telegraphing subtle strikes. This makes it easier to feel a bite and to set the hook on a fish. This is a big advantage when bottom fishing and targeting fish like sheepshead and mangrove snapper.

Fluorocarbon lines are expensive, and while it was intended as a filler line, most anglers use it primarily for leaders. It has a number of advantages over monofilament line, the most important being that it is less visible in the water. In addition, it is denser, sinks faster and is more abrasion-resistant. It’s important to carefully seat all knots and this is especially true with fluorocarbon. Wet knots and draw them up tight with pliers. Knots break when they slip and a carefully tied knot won’t slip.

There are so many lines and variations on the market that it would take a book to cover them all.

There is a lot of information on the internet, but probably the best advice would be to seek out local knowledge from anglers and tackle shops and try the different lines to see which suits your fishing style. That may end up being a particular type of braid, monofilament or fluorocarbon.  Hooks are, as they say, where the “rubber meets the road,” and choosing the proper size for the fish you pursue is important. Having said that, the relationship between hook size and fish size isn’t necessarily linear. Fly anglers catch some very big tarpon on hooks as small as number 1 or 2. What is critical is the strength of the wire used to construct the hook. The most important consideration when considering hooks is that they are sharp. Most hooks today are chemically sharpened, are extremely sharp out of the package but can become dull with use or contact with boats or bottom. Test the hook regularly to make sure it hasn’t dulled and keep a hook hone handy at all times. This is particularly important when pursuing fish like tarpon with boney mouths. When you fill spools properly, tie proper leaders with tight knots and regularly sharpen hooks, you’ll maximize your time on the water and up your hookup odds!

Schoenfelder seeks $65,000 to terminate pier lease early

Busy Atlantic hurricane season predicted

Written by SUN contributor on . Posted in Hurricane Guide Archives.

The forecasters at the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration’s Climate Prediction Center are predicting a busier than average Atlantic hurricane season, with the possibility of 13 to 19 named storms, six to 10 hurricanes and three to six major hurricanes.

To be named, a storm must have wind speeds of 39 miles per hour or higher with a circular rotational pattern. Hurricanes are named storms with winds of 74 miles per hour or higher while a major hurricane is considered one that ranks as a category three, four or five storm with wind speeds of 111 miles per hour or higher.

NOAA forecasters also predict a 60% chance of an above-normal hurricane season, a 30% chance of a near-normal season and a 10% chance of a below-normal season. Reasons for the predictions include above-average ocean surface temperatures in the Atlantic Ocean and Caribbean Sea, no El Nino conditions to suppress hurricane formation and weak tropical tradewinds.

This year, three of the 21 names for storms have already been assigned to Tropical Storm Arthur and Tropical Storm Bertha in May and Tropical Storm Cristobal in early June.

2020 Atlantic hurricane season names

Written by SUN contributor on . Posted in Hurricane Guide Archives.

Each year the World Meteorological Organization releases names for Atlantic tropical storms and hurricanes. If this year’s names sound familiar, that’s because they were last used in 2014. This year’s list will move back into rotation in 2026.

If a storm is particularly devastating, the name may be retired and replaced with a new name, as was Hurricane Katrina. If a hurricane season is particularly active and more than 21 storms form, the additional storms are named after letters in the Greek alphabet.

To be named, a storm must have wind speeds of at least 39 miles per hour and have a rotating circular pattern.

This year’s names are:

  1. Arthur
  2. Bertha
  3. Cristobal
  4. Dolly
  5. Edouard
  6. Fay
  7. Gonzalo
  8. Hanna
  9. Isaias
  10. Josephine
  11. Kyle
  12. Laura
  13. Marco
  14. Nana
  15. Omar
  16. Paulette
  17. Rene
  18. Sally
  19. Teddy
  20. Vicky
  21. Wilfred

 

Holmes Beach logo OLD

Changes for parking plans on the agenda

Written by SUN contributor on . Posted in Community News, Holmes Beach, Transportation.

HOLMES BEACH – It’s been just over two weeks since the city’s new parking plan was enacted and commissioners are already discussing making changes after receiving criticism from some city residents, business owners and Manatee County residents.

The parking plan eliminated side of the street and right of way parking in some neighborhoods near the beach. Commissioners are scheduled at the Tuesday, June 23 work session to begin discussions on enacting permit parking in the areas where parking was eliminated.

The proposal being discussed is a modified version of a parking-by-permit proposal considered in 2016 by commissioners after a presentation by the city’s congestion committee. The proposal was vetoed by then-Mayor Bob Johnson and didn’t receive a super-majority vote from commissioners.

Current Mayor Judy Titsworth and Commissioner Pat Morton, who were both commissioners at the time, voted against the 2016 parking plan, but both have recently expressed support for limiting public parking in residential neighborhoods close to the beach while also finding a balance to accommodate residents in those neighborhoods.

While providing residential parking on the side of the street could alleviate some of the concerns expressed by residents, it doesn’t address the concerns of business owners.

Another proposal being considered by city commissioners in the near future is the possibility of changing the Holmes Beach Land Development Code to allow businesses and churches to charge for beachgoers using their lots for parking. While being able to accept donations for parking could help local churches suffering from a lack of donations due to COVID-19 shutdowns, some city business owners are still concerned that the lack of residential neighborhood parking and increase of commercial parking could result in a lack of parking spaces for their business patrons.

Utilizing church parking for access to beach access points where there are no facilities for visitors also is a cause for concern for some residents. The lack of street parking may keep cars out of the neighborhoods, but it’s not slowing down the foot traffic or eliminating issues such as trash and beach equipment left behind or a lack of restroom facilities for beachgoers, according to emails received by The Sun from concerned residents.

Titsworth also said she’s meeting with representatives from the Manatee County School District to discuss the possibility of using the Anna Maria Elementary School parking lot for overflow beach parking when available.

Manatee County commissioners are discussing their own ideas to remedy the issue, including the potential for a parking garage in Holmes Beach.

Currently, Manatee County offers a free park and ride service from the Beachway Shopping Plaza on 75th Street and Cortez Road in Bradenton to Manatee Beach in Holmes Beach on weekends. Riders can park their vehicles and take the bus to Anna Maria Island’s beaches without worrying about having to try to find parking. The bus runs hourly Friday through Sunday with pickup near the Wells Fargo Bank.

Adult co-ed soccer kicks off another season

Adult co-ed soccer kicks off another season

Written by Monica Simpson on . Posted in Soccer, Sports.

The excitement of the adult flag football season’s grand finale leads right into the next recreational sports league at The Center – adult co-ed soccer. Trading football cleats for soccer boots, the men and women gathered once again on the Island’s main field.

With the quick turnaround of the sports season, early season schedule conflicts and summer commitments, some of the squads found themselves missing key players.

Ross Built Construction, playing without their usual front man, Connor Bystrom, received their first win of the season by forfeit when Solid Rock Construction could not man the field.

Bystrom, now wearing a Sato Real Estate jersey, had two goals in the second game of the night against Blalock Walters. Sato Real Estate took the win with an additional two points by Murat Akay and a solo goal by Josh Sato. Teammate Steve Oelfke, wearing the goalie jersey, had eight saves in the game.

Protecting the goal on the other end of the field, keeper Trey Horne was credited with nine saves for Blalock Walters. Top player Matthew Staggs put two points on the scoreboard, with another point contributed by Austin Nutting in the 5-3 loss.

In the last seconds of the game, Beach Bums was handed their first loss of the season, despite six saves by Jason Sato and two goals by Kevin Roman. The team’s female player, and arguably one of the best players in the league, Amy Ivin was held to a single point along with Robert Fellowes.

Vintage Beach’s top female player, Clancy Vaughn, took to the net and made 10 saves in the game. Niel Fellowes found the net once with a strike, while teammate Joey Hutchinson, with four goals in the night, showed why he is a force to be contained on the soccer field.

In the last game played last Thursday night, Moss Builders faced Gulfview Windows and Doors; neither team included the goalkeeping talents of Jordan DeMers as typically seen in past seasons.

Returning to the league after a long absence, Brent Moss topped the scoring for Moss Builders with two goals. His uncle, Ed Moss, put one in the net in addition to teammate Ashley Friszman. Friszman returns to the league after an injury kept her from playing most of the games last season.

Ryan Moss spent most of the game protecting his team’s goal. Moss was credited with 10 saves in the win.

Scoring was spread among four of the Gulfview squad. Daniel Adan, Jesse Kunc, Raul Loera and Nate Talucci all put a point on the scoreboard for their team in the close loss against Moss Builders to close out the night of soccer at the Island community center.

Sun Scoreboard

Thursday, June 18

Adult Co-Ed Soccer

 

Beach Bums 4

Vintage Beach 5

 

Sato Real Estate 5

Blalock Walters 3

 

Gulfview Windows 4

Moss Builders 5

 

Ross Built Construction W by forfeit

Solid Rock Construction L

Coquina Beach improvements require more Australian pine removals

More Australian pine removals at Coquina

Written by Joe Hendricks on . Posted in Bradenton Beach, Community News.

BRADENTON BEACH – Manatee County commissioners have approved the phase two Coquina Beach drainage improvement plans that call for the removal of 87 additional Australian pine trees.

Native trees will be planted on a one-to-one ratio as replacements for the removed Australian pines, as was the case with phase one of the county project, and in accordance with the city of Bradenton Beach’s land development code. The replacement trees will consist of shady lady black olive trees, gumbo limbos and green buttonwoods.

The replacement trees for the 103 Australian pines removed from the south end of the beach parking lot during the phase one project last year were planted last week.

Coquina Beach improvements require more Australian pine removals
The new phase one replacement trees were planted at Coquina Beach last week. – Joe Hendricks | Sun

Public Works Project Manager Michael Sturm presented the phase two plans to county commissioners on Tuesday, June 16.

The phase two drainage and parking improvements will take place in the center and north parking areas of the county-owned beach in Bradenton Beach. The drainage improvements will include new stormwater pipes and paving the remaining unpaved parking areas with pervious pavement that allows rainwater to drain through it.

Coquina Beach improvements require more Australian pine removals
The map illustrates where the phase two drainage improvements will be made. – Manatee County | Submitted

Sturm’s presentation noted the completion of phase two would result in more than 900 striped and paved parking spaces at Coquina Beach. Approximately 700 of those paved parking spaces will be created in phase two. Sturm’s presentation notes the previous number of parking spaces was unknown because there was no formal layout for the unpaved spaces.

The estimated phase one cost was $3.36 million. The estimated phase two cost is $3.62 million.

Commission feedback

Holmes Beach resident and County Commissioner Carol Whitmore voiced the only opposition to the phase two plans.

“Now’s probably not even a good time for this to be coming up,” she said in reference to other parking issues that have surfaced on Anna Maria Island.

“Use that $3.6 million on something else we desperately need,” she said.

Commissioner Misty Servia felt differently.

“I am excited about the phase two project, especially when we consider the lack of parking out on the Island. The removal of the Australian pines in favor of native trees that are going to provide shade and canopy to the beach area is a great thing in my opinion. I am ready to make the motion for approval,” she said.

Commissioner Steve Jonsson seconded Servia’s motion and said, “I was certainly in favor of doing phase one first and seeing how that came out. I was out the visiting the site three weeks ago and it came out really well. It was a huge improvement.”

Jonsson said he was skeptical at first of the pervious pavement but seeing the phase one improvements changed his mind.

“I’m looking forward to getting the second phase done. We’ll have those 900 spaces,” he said.

Coquina Beach improvements require more Australian pine removals
This is an aerial view of the completed phase one drainage improvements. – Manatee County | Submitted

Commissioner Vanessa Baugh referenced a summary of facts included in Sturm’s presentation.

“Originally there were 990-plus Australian pines. In phase one, we only removed 103 of those 990-plus. Then in phase two it would be 87,” she noted.

Commission Chair Betsy Benac asked Sturm if the phase one and phase two improvements would produce more usable parking spaces at Coquina Beach. Sturm said they would.

Benac asked if the Australian pines along the multi-use path would remain in place. Sturm said they would.

Benac said she has not received any negative feedback since the phase one tree removals occurred and the phase one work ensued, and during Tuesday’s meeting, no one provided public comment on the matter.

“I am going to support this due to the fact that we’re going to have more usable spaces with these improvements,” Benac said.

Benac noted the paved parking spaces will provide beach access for all Manatee County residents and visitors.

“I think that’s a good thing,” she said.

The commission voted 6-1 in favor of moving forward with phase two, with Whitmore casting the only opposition vote.

Castles in the Sand

How things have changed

Written by Louise Bolger on . Posted in Business, Castles in the Sand.

Change seems to be the word that I’m most using these days, and rightfully so since within the span of three short months our lives have completely been turned upside down. For real estate, the changes have been staggering and many will be permanent, including everything from the way we purchase homes to the way homes are designed.

The virus has turned our lives into a virtual world; many work from home, go to school virtually and as it turns out, buy homes virtually. The traditional home viewing system is starting to be a thing of the past, just like reading real books and reading virtual books; some people still need to hold that book in their hands and others think it’s a waste of time. Since buying a home is generally the largest investment of most people’s lives, the virtual technology is being approached carefully. It may not be the right fit for first-time buyers who don’t have the homeowning experience to understand everything they’re looking at, but if you’re familiar with the area and don’t have the time or inclination to travel, it may be a godsend.

According to the National Association of Realtors, last year only 3.5% of buyers purchased a home without viewing it in person. But a survey done the last week of April by the NAR found that 31% of agents had at least one sight-unseen sale. As the technology moves along and becomes more user friendly and specific, more and more buyers are becoming comfortable with the idea of a virtual purchase. Among other new devices, there are virtual reality goggles being made available to buyers, a Marco Polo video app for virtual walk-throughs in addition to traditional pictures and videos. Even home inspectors are videotaping their inspections, giving the buyer a permanent record of the inspection with the ability to review it several times.

Another real estate by-product of the shutdown is the desire for less open floor plans. Remember how everyone wanted an open floor plan to bring the family together in one place, well maybe now there has been too much togetherness. After months of trying to carve out their own work and entertainment areas, families are renovating or building with an eye towards a private space for family members and a smaller family gathering location at the end of the day.

Kitchens in particular are important to families now more than ever since most meals are being cooked at home, requiring more storage and appliances, and this may be more than just a COVID necessity which will be phased out. Families are starting to see the benefits of gathering together for a real family dinner each night that’s more than just takeout pizza once a week.

Homeowners with the ability and funds are also building separate structures or additions to their homes for the permanent at-home workspace they anticipate for the future. Since right now we don’t know how or when schools and colleges will begin normal classes, having a study area separate from the living area of the home may be more of a necessity than a luxury in the future. And apartment dwellers are also trying to create hidden storage areas where they can hide their electronic devices when not in use, assuming their current arrangement may not be temporary.

Upside down is somewhat of an understatement considering what we’ve been living through. I’m convinced that when we look back at this year, we’ll see how virtual home purchasing and home redesign are two of the major changes to real estate that come out of this crisis. I hope the family dinner aspect sticks too; a lot of us grew up that way and it was a good thing. Stay safe.

Anna Maria City Pier opening brings joy to the community

Anna Maria City Pier opening sends community spirit soaring

Written by Joe Hendricks on . Posted in Anna Maria, Community News, Featured.

ANNA MARIA – The new $6.8 million Anna Maria City Pier opened Friday morning at 8 a.m. when 6-year-old Sadie Agnelli swung open the gate at the foot of the pier.

The new pier is now open on a limited basis from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. on Fridays, Saturdays and Sundays. For now, the pier will be closed Monday through Thursday. The weekday closures will allow time to complete any needed final touch-ups and will also provide the new pier tenant time to begin the interior buildouts of the city-owned restaurant and bait shop buildings.

Anna Maria Mayor Dan Murphy is currently engaged in lease negotiations with Ugly Grouper restaurant co-owner Mike Ross and General Manager Thad Treadwell. Murphy recently said he expects a proposed long-term lease for the restaurant and bait shop buildings to be presented to the city commission in July. Once a lease is finalized, the interior buildouts can commence. The restaurant and bait shop are expected to open later this year or early next year.

Anna Maria City Pier opening brings joy to the community
Six-year-old Sadie Agnelli opened the gate to the new City Pier Friday morning. – Joe Hendricks | Sun

Sadie Agnelli is the daughter of Frank Agnelli, the Anna Maria contractor whose Mason Martin Builders built the new restaurant and bait shop buildings, and also the benches and tables that grace the new pier. Tampa-based i+iconSoutheast built the main pier structure that includes the pier walkway and the T-end platform.

The pier replacement project received significant funding assistance from Manatee County, the state of Florida and FEMA.

Speeler & Associates began demolishing the old pier in July 2018 and i+iconSoutheast drove the first pilings for the new pier in February 2019. The old City Pier closed in September 2017 due to damage sustained during Hurricane Irma. At the time, the aging pier was already in need of significant rehabilitation.

Opening day

Before his daughter opened the gate, Frank Agnelli said, “I’m happy to see it finished. It looks really good and it feels good to be a part of the Island’s history.”

He and Sadie were then the first visitors to set foot on the new pier Friday morning.

Anna Maria City Pier opening brings joy to the community
Frank and Sadie Agnelli were the first members of the public to walk onto to the new City Pier Friday morning. – Joe Hendricks | Sun

Palmetto resident Alexander Barthalis was the first fisherman on the new pier.

“It feels great. I was waiting for this moment for almost three years. I’ve been coming here for the past 15 years and I was devastated when the hurricane damaged this. I hope I can come here for another 20 years,” he said.

Anna Maria City Pier opening brings joy to the community
Alexander Barthalis, left, was the first fisherman on the new City Pier. – Joe Hendricks | Sun

Barthalis was joined at the T-end of the pier by 15-year-old Palmetto fisherman Donavan Dolan, 13-year-old Joseph Dolan and their dad, Daniel Dolan. Within minutes, Joseph Dolan caught a small red snapper and the mayor congratulated him for being the first to catch a fish on the new pier.

Anna Maria City Pier opening brings joy to the community
13-year-old Joseph Dolan, center, was the first to catch a fish on the new City Pier. – Joe Hendricks | Sun

Standing nearby, Bradenton resident Jeff Higgins said, “I’m psyched. It’s been awhile. As I was walking out it almost didn’t feel like it had been three years. It feels normal coming back out on the pier.”

Anna Maria resident Bob Carter said, “This is an exciting day we’ve all been waiting for. To see this new pier as beautiful as it is and in the same footprint is like the old pier being brought back to life. Congratulations to the mayor, the commissioners and the people who were patient enough to let it be done.”

City Commission Chair Carol Carter said, “It’s a red-letter day for us. It’s been almost three years of anticipation. It’s a lovely up-to-date rendition of the old pier and it means a lot to the city, particularly the businesses. As the mayor has said, the pier is the hub of our city and it symbolizes our sense of community.”

Murphy has guided the pier replacement project every step of the way.

“I can’t tell you how thrilling it is to have this pier open. This has been such a long time coming. I look at all the hurdles we’ve been through to bring it to this point and I’m pleased that we are where we are,” he said.

When asked if he felt a sense of relief, the mayor said, “Yes, but there’s a few miles to go. We’ve got to get a restaurant out here and we’ve got to get the bait shop open. What I feel the best about is that the residents of our city can come out and enjoy this pier. And this will help the businesses on Pine Avenue and Gulf Drive. They can maybe breathe a sigh of relief now that Manatee County’s number one attraction is open again.”

Anna Maria City Pier opening brings joy to the community
West Virginia visitor Laura Sommer and her eight-month-old granddaughter Vivian Rossignol strolled the new pier Friday morning. – Joe Hendricks | Sun

“It exceeded my expectations. This is gorgeous. It’s authentic looking and it’s solid. The pier means a lot to the city – it’s a fishing pier and it’s also a community connector,” Commissioner Amy Tripp said.

Tripp praised the quality of work and attention to detail paid by all involved in the project.

Former Commissioner Doug Copeland said, “It’s worth every penny to have what we ended up with.”

“It feels amazing and there’s a huge sense of relief,” City Clerk LeAnne Addy said.

“It’s an exciting day for the city and all of Anna Maria Island. It’s an absolutely beautiful pier,” Deputy City Clerk Debbie Haynes said.

“I’m ecstatic. Everybody did just a great job and this is a momentous occasion,” Public Works Manager Dean Jones said.

Anna Maria City Pier opening brings joy to the community
The new pier restrooms have an elegant touch. – Joe Hendricks | Sun

“I think it turned out terrific and the bathrooms are like a luxury hotel,” Anna Maria resident Jack Brennan said.

Brian Blaine used to tend bar in the old pier bait shop and hopes to return when the new bait shop opens.

“It’s beautiful,” he said of the new pier. “I hope for great things and hopefully I’ll be an asset.”

Anna Maria City Pier opening brings joy to the community
Former bait shop bartender Brian Blaine hopes to return to the job he loved so much. – Joe Hendricks | Sun