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Reel Time: Catch and release

Reel Time: Catch and release

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

Catch and release used to be a relatively new concept in sport fishing, one that recognized that fish populations are vulnerable and not the endless resource that they were once thought to be. Now the concept is commonplace and has even spawned a sort of backlash, as the “I Kill Fish” sticker on the back of a truck I saw recently attests.

Fishermen who fish mostly for fun have been criticized because many see catching and releasing fish as playing with fish. Anglers, unlike hunters, can pursue their passion and release their prey. Both hunters and anglers are quite often great champions of their respective passions and invest their time and money in protecting the habitat and well-being of fish and animals.

Most anglers I know who practice catch and release have no problem with taking an occasional fish home for dinner. It’s more about enjoying the sport and trying to be proactive in helping it to remain healthy and viable. There are many species, notable among them tarpon, that anglers seldom, if ever, kill. Catch and release is not just about releasing fish that you don’t want, it’s also about safely releasing undersized fish or species that aren’t valued at the table. Catch and release in any form is a wise use of the resource, but unfortunately, many anglers don’t know how to properly handle fish.

When we get cut, bruised or battered we can head for the local drug store, or in more extreme cases the Emergency Room. Not so for fish. For them, it’s heal or die, and in their world, it’s the sick and wounded that first fall prey to predators. What a shame to do the right thing, releasing a big speckled trout full of roe, only to have it eaten by a shark, barracuda or other predator because it wasn’t handled properly.

The first step I would suggest is to make sure you match tackle to the task. Trying to land a big tarpon on 20-pound tackle might be OK if you’re experienced, but to the uninitiated, it’s like announcing a free meal to the sharks that ply local waters looking for weak or injured prey. Enjoy the action, but land the fish as quickly as possible. Once you have the fish subdued, the best course is to never take them out of the water. If you’ve been fighting them for a long time (think tarpon), make sure you revive them properly. If you can reach the water over the gunwale, slowly move the boat forward while holding the fish firmly but lightly. This forces water and oxygen through their gills and helps them recover from oxygen depletion. They’ll let you know when they’re ready to go.

The hook is probably the next most important consideration. Either a circle hook or a barbless hook is usually best for anglers and their fish. The key to keeping fish on a barbless hook is to keep the line tight. Circle hooks are recommended for inexperienced anglers and on fish that tend to swallow the hook, like speckled trout. Fish secrete a protective coating that covers the scales and skin. This slime coat acts as a defense against invasion by bacterial, parasitic and fungal pathogens. Whatever hook you use, a de-hooker will keep your hands safe and clean, preventing you from inadvertently harming the fish’s protective slime coat and protecting hands from sharp gills and teeth. De-hookers come in various shapes depending on how they’re used. The simplest is J-shaped and removes hooks in or near the jaw. A circular-shaped longer version allows anglers to remove hooks that are deep in the throat of a fish or in the jays of a big fish like a barracuda.

Anglers who fish for reef fish like snapper and grouper need to learn how to “vent” fish with inflated swim bladders. Bringing the fish up from deep depths fast bloats the bladder, which has to be punctured to allow the fish to reach the bottom. A good presentation of the process is available online.

Anglers that release a trophy-sized fish may want to take home a picture. Here are a few tips that will help you record your catch. Set your exposure in advance and have an idea where in the boat you want to take the picture. The best picture for the fish would be when it’s still in the water, but if you do remove the fish, hold it horizontally, with one hand near the head, and the other hand under the fish’s belly to support its weight. Holding a fish vertically puts a strain on the internal organs and can potentially dislocate its jaw. This is particularly important with large fish. Lastly, eliminate any extraneous objects like rods and focus in on the subject.

By being prepared we can get the fish back in the water fast, thus ensuring its chances of survival. Taking the time and having the tools and knowledge to release fish mindfully is a great way to help ensure we have a healthy population of fish now and into the future.

Record crowds predicted for Memorial Day

Written by Jason Schaffer on . Posted in Business, Featured, Tourism.

BRADENTON BEACH – With COVID-19 restrictions being lifted, flights back to 100% capacity, people vaccinated and school coming to an end, Anna Maria Island could potentially see a record number of visitors for the Memorial Day holiday. With many service industry businesses already being understaffed, owners and managers are doing their best to prepare. 

According to Research Data Services, which tracks monthly visitor statistics to the Island, there is every reason to believe the number of visitors will likely surpass not only 2020, but pre-COVID-19 as well. Data also shows that the length of time people are staying has continued to increase. This is also supported by data from Sarasota Bradenton International Airport (SRQ). Southwest Airlines has added new cities such as Columbus, Houston and Nashville, and continues to increase the number of daily flights. SRQ is currently the fastest-growing airport in America, and a large number of those passengers are headed to the beach. 

“We’ve been sold out for Memorial Day since the beginning of April,” said Dawn Hollar, of the Anna Maria Island Dream Inn. “It was pretty crazy during spring break in March, especially with a limited staff. We’re expecting more of the same for Memorial Day.” Dream Inn, like many other businesses on the Island, continues to work with a smaller-than-normal crew.

It may come as a surprise, but according to Hollar, Memorial Day and Valentine’s Day are the two busiest holidays of the year.

“Regardless of being sold out and short on staff, we’re still able to handle it. Still ready for everybody to come in, still here with a smile on our face, with clean rooms and a ready staff,” she said.

Wanting to give guests the best experience possible is a sentiment shared by Island business owners and managers. While at times stressful due to the challenges they’re facing from the pandemic, owners expressed optimism that things are returning to as close to normal as possible.

“We’re seeing people who were here in February coming back in June; they’re trying to catch up on lost time,” said Kathy Wooten, General Manager of Queens Gate Resort in Bradenton Beach.

“June, as a general rule, brings families after the kids get out of school, but this year is over the top,” Wooten said. “We are sold out well into July and have been for weeks. We broke records in March, broke records in April, and are about to break our record for May. There’s a frenzy about Anna Maria. I’ve been here 30 years and never seen anything like it.” 

As with any busy holiday week on the Island, expect an increased police presence, parking rules being strictly enforced, and much higher-than-average traffic volume.

Castles in the Sand

Crazy rich homeowners

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

We’re in the “careful what you wish for” zone, not just Floridians, but every homeowner across the country. Prices are up, inventory is low and a lot of potential buyers are really unhappy; where will it end?

Home prices rose around the country during the first quarter of the year to a record level. The median sale price for existing single-family homes was higher in the first quarter compared with a year earlier for most of the metro area tracked by the National Association of Realtors. They reported that in 89% of the metro areas tracked, median prices rose by more than 10% from last year.

In addition, the National Association of Realtors reported the United States average median single-family home appreciation rate was up 16%. The following are first-quarter median single-family appreciation rates for some of the major areas around the country: Northeast up 22%; West up 18%; South up 15% and Midwest up 14%. This may be a confusing mouthful, but it boils down to no matter where you live or are trying to buy a home, you’ll pay a lot more than last year.

Realtor.com also reported the number of active listings on their website was down 52% from a year earlier at the beginning of May. The fact that mortgage rates are low, even though they did have a slight blip up, is not significant in some areas since all-cash buyers are representing a large slice of buyers. And Fannie Mae is forecasting median existing-home prices to rise 11.5% in 2021 then slow to a 4% increase in 2022, none of which is good news for buyers who are getting priced out of the market every month. Not to mention lenders who are less than enthusiastic about giving mortgages to first-time borrowers, especially if their credit ratings are less than very high 700s.

Before I go into Manatee County’s April sales statistics reported by the Realtor Association of Sarasota and Manatee, comparing April of last year to April of this year will show remarkable changes because April 1 of last year was the beginning of the COVID-19 lockdown and a pause in real estate sales. Regardless, the numbers are incredible, breaking yet another record for single-family median sales price.

April single-family closed sales were up 69.7%, cash sales were up 166.7% and the median sale price was $405,000 up 19.1% a new record. The average sales price was $578,162, up 42.2%, the median time to contract was seven days and month’s supply of available properties was 0.6 months.

April condo closed sales was up 126.8%, cash sales were up 121.7% and the median sale price was $235,000, up 10.8%. The average sale price was $303,121, up 28.9%, the median time to contract was 11 days and month’s supply of available properties was 0.7 months.

Make note of the cash sales, which keep going up every month. That number is having a significant influence on the market. First-time buyers are not only being outbid they are also being outmaneuvered by cash buyers and quick closings, frequently without an inspection contingency.

Every month, it’s hard to believe the numbers can improve as much as they do. But we are in real estate crazy land, something we all at one time wished for. Nevertheless, keep in mind that comparisons will be off for the next several months when you compare them to last year because of last year’s lockdowns. Stay safe.

Red tide advisory issued

Written by Cindy Lane on . Posted in Featured.

ANNA MARIA ISLAND – The Florida Department of Health in Manatee County has issued a red tide advisory for Anna Maria Island and Longboat Key.

Low levels of red tide persist in Manatee County, and fish kills were reported at the 59th Street canal in Holmes Beach on May 18, according to the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission weekly report.

Low concentrations were detected at the Rod & Reel Pier in Anna Maria and the Holmes Beach Boat Ramp.

Very low concentrations were detected in water samples at School Key (Key Royale on Anna Maria Island) and the Longboat Pass Boat Ramp.

Background concentrations of the toxic algae were detected at the Palma Sola Bay bridge.

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, go inside to an air-conditioned space, or wear masks, especially during onshore winds. Residents may consider wearing masks, especially if onshore winds are blowing.

No red tide-related respiratory irritation was reported over the past week in Manatee County.

Consuming shellfish exposed to red tide can cause neurotoxic shellfish poisoning. Health officials also warn against swimming near dead fish, and advise keeping pets away from dead fish and sea foam, which can contain high concentrations of algae. Pets are not allowed on Anna Maria Island’s beaches, but are allowed on the Palma Sola Causeway on Manatee Avenue.

Environmental officials say that the nutrients phosphorus and nitrogen, which feed toxic red tide algae blooms, were present in the 215 million gallons of polluted water discharged last month into Tampa Bay at Port Manatee from one of the closed Piney Point phosphate plant’s retention ponds, built into a gypsum stack. The emergency release, which ended April 9, took pressure off the compromised stack, avoiding its collapse and a more serious spill. The polluted water is spreading in Tampa Bay and its estuaries and into the Gulf of Mexico, according to the University of South Florida College of Marine Science.

Castles in the Sand

The never-ending saga of Florida insurance

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

Like a bad soap opera, the Florida insurance storyline keeps repeating itself. This time it’s not even flood insurance, which I touched on two weeks ago; it’s your regular homeowner’s insurance that is breaking hearts all over the Sunshine State.

Here’s an interesting little fact; Florida is the most expensive state in the United States for home insurance, according to the insurance trade group Insurance Information Institute, and premiums are going up. Florida residents are projected to pay on average $2,380 in premiums this year, a 21% increase over 2018. The average American homeowner is expected to pay $1,297 this year, up 4% from 2018.

Some of the reasons Florida’s premiums are going up have to do with claims resulting from two hurricanes, Irma in 2017 and Michael in 2018. As we Floridians know or should know, even if we don’t take a direct hit from a hurricane, no matter where it hits in the state, we’re all subject to increases in insurance. Adding to payouts for storms, there is an increasing amount of litigation over insurance claims and sham roof-related claims, as well as increasing rates for reinsurance insurers to mitigate some of their risk.

The end result of this is insurance carriers experiencing mounting losses and increasing premiums or dropping coverage completely in certain areas. Some homeowners are being forced to go to Citizens Property Insurance Corp., the state-backed insurer of last resort, which is quickly increasing the number of policies they carry. We’ve been down this road before with flood insurance; in the end, it’s the Florida taxpayer who gets hurt.

What we don’t know at this point is if it will have any effect on the real estate market. Florida residents and out-of-state buyers are reeling from sticker shock, but will that translate into a cooling of the blow-out real estate market we’re in? My opinion, for what it’s worth, is it won’t have any significant effect on the value of the real estate market. Individuals relocate to Florida and continue living here for reasons other than insurance premiums. In all respects, Florida is a low-tax state with so many other benefits driving up the population I doubt an insurance increase will change too many minds.

Florida lawmakers have been attempting to change some legislation to help control the growth of insurance premiums with bills that put limits on attorney fees and frivolous lawsuits and claims, hopefully reducing the incentive for homeowners to go forward with false claims.

And all of this is happening at the same time we can expect flood insurance increases in October. FEMA is reviewing its national insurance program. It is estimated that one out of five Florida homeowners (19.8%) should see a decrease in their yearly flood premium. However, one out of 25 (4.2%) should see a yearly rate increase greater than $240. We’ll know more at the beginning of October.

I personally had about a 15% increase when my homeowner’s policy renewed a couple of months ago, and what I hear from other people is about the same. Will it drive anyone out of Florida? I don’t see that happening. When the flood insurance increased several years ago there was a momentary panic, but it evened off when the federal government made some changes, and it had no effect on the real estate market.

There’s always something as the world goes round. Stay safe.

City denies Center funding

Written by SUN contributor on . Posted in Anna Maria Island, Center of Anna Maria Island, Community News, Featured.

HOLMES BEACH – In what’s proved to be a controversial decision, commissioners voted to deny The Center of Anna Maria Island a financial contribution from the city.

The decision was a split one with Commissioners Carol Soustek and Terry Schaefer voting to give The Center an already-budgeted financial contribution of $22,500 and Commissioners Jim Kihm, Jayne Christenson and Kim Rash voting against the donation.

Carol Soustek
Soustek

Before the vote took place during the May 11 meeting, Schaefer reminded his fellow commissioners that they had previously decided to donate $5,000 to the Anna Maria Island Chamber of Commerce’s passport program from the approved budget line for charitable contributions, leaving $17,500 in the budget. City Treasurer Lori Hill suggested taking $5,000 from the mayor and commission discretionary fund, which has about $40,000 left in it for the 2020-21 fiscal year after other planned expenditures. She said the city has been contributing at least $22,500 annually to The Center since 1998.

The city of Anna Maria provided The Center with $25,000 in 2020. The city of Bradenton Beach provided The Center with no funds in 2020 and $5,000 in 2019.

Meet the candidate: Terry Schaefer
Schaefer

Manatee County Commissioner and former Holmes Beach Mayor Carol Whitmore said in an email to The Sun that when she left the position of mayor in 2006, the city was donating $30,000 per year to The Center.

Currently, the nonprofit is working to fill the $100,000 budget gap created by pandemic shutdowns and canceled events.

Christenson said that while she personally supports The Center, she’s not sure that taxpayer dollars should be given to one nonprofit. She added that while she understands the donation to The Center from the city was in the approved budget for the 2020-21 fiscal year, she feels that the city’s responsibility is to use taxpayer funds to make the city better for its residents and property owners. She said the city’s taxpayer base should personally choose which organizations they want to donate to. Christenson was not on the city commission when the budget for this fiscal year was approved.

Meet the Candidate: Kim Rash
Rash
Christenson

Rash said he had heard concerns from some city residents about city funding of a nonprofit, leading to his vote against releasing the funding.

Kihm said that while he feels that The Center is a worthy organization, he too feels that taxpayers should decide where they want their dollars donated and then donate personally.

“I am extremely disappointed,” Mayor Judy Titsworth said. “I think this is a punch in the gut and it’s very disappointing if it doesn’t go through.” She said The Center is a huge benefit to the Island and the effort to bring families back to the three Island cities.

Meet the candidate: Jim Kihm
Kihm

Soustek said she was not going to vote against giving a donation that had already been approved by a majority of commissioners during the budget process. She added that if commissioners want to change future donations it should be addressed during the budget process.

“If we make a commitment, we should stand by it,” Schaefer said.

After a plea from the mayor, Kihm said he would put funding for The Center on a future agenda for more discussion.

The decision to not fund The Center was unpopular with some Holmes Beach residents.

“I am appalled that this year, in the midst of a global pandemic, when more than ever we need to support The Center, commissioners would vote to strip promised funding,” Holmes Beach resident Christine Shuck wrote to commissioners in a letter to the editor. “I was under the impression that the job of the commissioner was to try to better the community. In fact, that was what many of you campaigned on.

“I find it extremely concerning that not only are you failing to deliver already-promised funding, but you are also failing to fulfill the campaign promises on which you all ran,” her letter continued.

“Without this vital venue, the few families who can afford to live here will no longer have a reason to come live in Anna Maria. If we are going to have to drive off the Island for all our kids’ sports and camps, then what is the point of living here?” resident Mary Catherine Melancon asked in her letter.

“That our Center, truly AMI’s only recreation department, has to beg for dollars from each city is a sad statement of what our tax dollars are doing,” residents James and Lee McParland wrote in their letter to the editor.

In the recreation and open space element of the city’s comprehensive plan, the document which is intended to guide the future of Holmes Beach, it states that in the calculating of the level of parks, open space and outdoor facilities for residents, that city leaders will take into consideration “the city’s contribution to the continued operation of the Anna Maria Island Community Center and the recreational services it provides.”

“I will continue to encourage our citizens of Holmes Beach and visitors to be involved in our community but to respect a person’s right to choose the organization(s) they wish to give a charitable donation to,” Christenson said in a response email to one resident’s concerns about Center funding. “There are many deserving, community-based organizations on the Island and the choice to give should be the individual’s.”

Related coverage

 

Youth soccer fills the air at The Center

 

Center reports positive end of year results

 

The Center receives financial help

Influencers, national media descend on AMI in tourism campaign

Written by Jason Schaffer on . Posted in Business, Tourism.

ANNA MARIA ISLAND – After a year of quarantine, visitors are beginning to once again plan vacations. With tourism being so vital to the economic well-being of Anna Maria Island and Manatee County in general, public relations campaigns are essential to draw travelers to the area. At last week’s Manatee County Tourist Development Council (TDC) meeting, the Marketing and Communications Director for the Bradenton Area Convention and Visitors Bureau (CVB), Kelly Clark, along with Aqua Public Relations Director Megan Brewster, discussed how public relations is being used to encourage tourism in the area.

Over the past six months, the CVB has put together a multi-phase public relations campaign. Phase one focuses on hyper-local social media influencers. These are people with a strong social media presence that live in the area. According to Clark, these people are a safe way to spread the word about events and activities that will be of interest to potential visitors. They developed tiered packages based on how many people each social media influencer reached. Top-tier influencers, who reach hundreds of thousands of people, were offered a two-night stay experience. Those with less of a following were offered day trips. 

“The itineraries focused on what was open, what was safe, wide-open spaces, and stuff that research showed us people were looking to do if they were considering traveling,” said Brewster, who added that in exchange for hosting the influencers, participating partners received Instagram posts with direct links to their business via @Visit_Bradenton as well as Instagram stories at each stop. The combined audience reach of this phase of the campaign is 380,000 people. 

Phase two involved short trip itineraries for some in-state travel writers. Brewster said research showed that short trips would be the first to return after restrictions were lifted. This is known as the “drive market,” since those making this type of trip would most likely be coming by car from within the state of Florida. The slogan “Unwind With Peace of Mind” was used for this phase of the campaign. 

“You can come here, we’re being safe, and here’s how we’re doing it,” said Brewster, speaking of the slogan. Brewster also said this phase of the campaign garnered interest from Indulge Magazine, which is produced by the Miami Herald and has a large reach. Orlando Magazine, a lifestyle magazine for family-oriented professionals in the Orlando area, also visited and did a feature about Anna Maria. 

Phase three focused on markets of lift, bringing in travel writers to coincide with Southwest Airlines’ inaugural flights to Sarasota Bradenton International Airport (SRQ). With flights to Houston, Baltimore/Washington, Chicago and Nashville now added, social media influencers and media from all four of these markets were brought in for a visit. The most influential of these outlets to be hosted on Anna Maria was Forbes Magazine. With an audience reach of 33.7 million people, the in-depth article with multiple photos and interviews with area residents and business owners is great publicity for the area. 

Clark reviewed upcoming efforts, which include expanding Lift Market outreach in appropriate markets, continuing to expand markets showing SRQ passenger demand, expansion of outreach to national outlets, and shifting of focus to family travel in summer. 

Reel Time: Online angling

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

It might seem like the digital world has been around forever but it wasn’t that long ago that information about fishing was only available in books and magazines, on fishing shows, or by going fishing. Now, in the internet age, fishermen have a wealth of resources to supplement their days on the water.

Whatever your questions, answers can be found on YouTube instructional videos, Facebook posts, groups and live events. Searches reveal forums, illustrated articles, and much more right from your computer keyboard. Want to learn how to tie a particular knot, or a permit fly? Wondering where the fish are biting or what the tides are for your fishing trip (anywhere in the world) next week? You can even learn about the licensing requirements for an excursion to Belize or lodges that cater to fly fishermen in the Bahamas. The internet has a wealth of wonderful information and tons of junk. You have to know the right questions to ask to get the right answers.

Cast your net wide with “fishing” in Google, the net’s current #1 search engine, and you’ll have 271,000,000 websites to choose from. There are also 373 million fishing-related images and 209 million groups with fishing links, as well as directories and news. If you want to go fly fishing in the Bahamas and you’ve heard great things about the Abacos, type in “fly fishing the Abacos” – without quotation marks – and you’ll get approximately 431,000 websites. Google is looking up everything on fly fishing and Abacos. Narrow the search by putting quotes around the query and you’ll narrow the search to 272 sites specific to fly fishing the Abacos.

When searching the internet, be as specific as you can by entering words that narrow the inquiry. This advice will get you close in your search, but it may take some further sleuthing to find just what you’re looking for. Narrow your search down as far as you can, and then start paging through the results to view the websites. I pay attention to page views when searching YouTube. More views are often a sign of a good result, but not always.

If this all seems very confusing, that’s because it is. But that doesn’t mean it’s not useful.  The best way to learn is to practice. Time on the web, when used intelligently, is fun, interesting and very informative.

Here are a few sites you might want to check out. They have information on tides, what’s biting, where the action is, clubs, events and much more.  Captain Mel Berman’s Online Fishing Florida Magazine has to be the most comprehensive site in our area. Many of you may remember Mel as the host of “The Mel Berman Show” on Tampa’s 970 WFLA Radio. His website has a wealth of information for local anglers. Even though Berman passed away over a decade ago, Neil Taylor administers the site and has kept Mel’s legacy alive and well. Learn from others, and share your thoughts through chats, forums and email.

When you’re planning your next trip, you might want to stop by The Angling Report, www.anglingreport.com, an independent online (and print) newsletter on fishing travel.

The Angling Report gives fishermen what they call the “The Good, The Bad and The Ugly” low down on destinations, lodges and guides. The site concentrates on quality fly and light tackle fishing in the U.S. and abroad and is written by anglers who actually traveled to and fished the destinations. Want to chat and share information with other anglers? Explore sites like www.flyfishingforum.com , or www.floridasportsman.com. There’s something out there for even the most sedate armchair angler.

The possibilities are endless, so sit down, turn on your computer and see what you can find. Just remember, it’s a jungle out there and you’ll want to narrow your focus to the sites that are worth your time!

Events

Written by SUN contributor on . Posted in Archives.

Here’s your local guide to Anna Maria Island events, beaches, parks, preserves, community centers, libraries, chamber happenings and more!

Monday, May 10

Prevention Plus health screening, Soiree Room, The Center of Anna Maria Island, 407 Magnolia Ave., Anna Maria, costs vary by test. No prescriptions required. Reserve to 1-888-667-7587.

Tuesday, May 11

Farmer’s Market, City Pier Park, 101 N. Bay Blvd., Anna Maria, 8:30 a.m. to 2 p.m.

RoserRobics, Roser Church, 512 Pine Ave., Anna Maria, 9:30 a.m., no cost but donations welcome. Participants asked to bring bottled water and wear a face mask or shield.

Wednesday, May 12

Beach market, Coquina Beach, 2650 Gulf Drive S., Bradenton Beach, 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.

Thursday, May 13

AMI Chamber Sunrise Breakfast, Compass Hotel, 12324 Manatee Ave. W., Bradenton, 7:30 a.m., $10 for members or $18 for prospective members. Reserve to becky@amichamber.org.

Farm stand, Holmes Beach City Hall, 5801 Marina Drive, Holmes Beach, 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.

RoserRobics, Roser Church, 512 Pine Ave., Anna Maria, 9:30 a.m., no cost but donations welcome. Participants asked to bring bottled water and wear a face mask or shield.

Thursdays in Paradise Stroll featuring local art, music and food, Bridge Street, Bradenton Beach, 5 to 8 p.m.

Marshall Tucker Band, The Center of Anna Maria Island, 407 Magnolia Ave., Anna Maria, 6 p.m. Tickets on sale at www.centerami.org.

Friday, May 14

Beach market, Coquina Beach, 2650 Gulf Drive S., Bradenton Beach, 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.

Anna Maria Island Chamber of Commerce 22nd Annual Golf Tournament benefitting the scholarship fund, IMG Academy Golf Club, 4350 El Conquistador Pkwy., Bradenton, 11:30 a.m. Reserve to 941-778-1541 or info@amichamber.org.

Palma Sola Cleanup and Seaside Safari, Palma Sola Causeway Park, 9917 Manatee Ave. W., Bradenton, 6 to 8 p.m. Reservations required at www.eventbrite.com/e/151211962049.

Saturday, May 15

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.

Sunday, May 16

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, May 18

Stroller Stroll, Robinson Preserve expansion kayak launch, 840 Ninth Ave. N.W., Bradenton, 10 a.m. Reservations required to coral.bass@mymanatee.org or 941-742-5923 ext. 6034.

Wednesday, May 19

Beach market, Coquina Beach, 2650 Gulf Drive S., Bradenton Beach, 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.

Golfing for God, IMG Academy Golf Club, 4350 El Conquistador Pkwy., Bradenton, 2:45 p.m. tee time, 5:30 p.m. bible study and dinner, $40 for golf and dinner, $20 for dinner. Reservations required. Reserve to www.roserchurch.com/g4g/.

Thursday, May 20

Seashell Shore Walk, Coquina Beach, 2650 Gulf Drive S., Bradenton Beach, 9 a.m. Registration required at www.eventbrite.com/e/149739748619.

RoserRobics, Roser Church, 512 Pine Ave., Anna Maria, 9:30 a.m., no cost but donations welcome. Participants asked to bring bottled water and wear a face mask or shield.

Farm stand, Holmes Beach City Hall, 5801 Marina Drive, Holmes Beach, 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.

Thursdays in Paradise Stroll featuring local art, music and food, Bridge Street, Bradenton Beach, 5 to 8 p.m.

Friday, May 21

Beach market, Coquina Beach, 2650 Gulf Drive S., Bradenton Beach, 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.

Saturday, May 22

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.

Tortoise talks, Valentine House lawn, Robinson Preserve, 1704 99th St. N.W., Bradenton, 2 p.m.

Sunday, May 23

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, May 25

RoserRobics, Roser Church, 512 Pine Ave., Anna Maria, 9:30 a.m., no cost but donations welcome. Participants asked to bring bottled water and wear a face mask or shield.

What’s open

The Island Branch Library is open at 60% capacity. Please wear a face mask/covering. The Tingley Memorial Library is open.

The Center of Anna Maria Island is open with social distancing and face masks required.

The Holmes Beach dog park (Scentral Park), skate park, basketball courts, pickleball courts and tennis courts are open.

Local preserves are open, including Grassy Point Preserve, Neal Preserve, Perico Preserve and Robinson Preserve.

Local beaches are open.

Castles in the Sand

Governments change; so do taxes

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

There always seems to be something to talk about as it relates to taxes. Tax liability for real estate investors and individual homeowners is continually changing, especially when there is a change in government.

This time is no different.

I’ve written a few times about a 1031 exchange, which is a way to defer the capital gains on the profits from the sale of property by “exchanging” the property. Basically, this allows you to reinvest the proceeds from your original property and subsequently defer the capital gains if another property is purchased within six months of the sale. This tax benefit is, however, only eligible for either investment or second home properties, not for a primary residence.

During the last tax overhaul in 2017, some of the benefits of the 1031 exchange were rolled back. Properties could be exchanged for “like-kind” properties including artwork and valuable collectibles, however, that part of the law was amended to allow for only real estate to be recognized as an exchange.

The 1031 exchange has traditionally been used by corporations, small real estate investors and individuals alike. Real estate investors take the position that exchanges encourage businesses to expand and create jobs. Individuals use the exchange as a way to roll over their second home properties into larger family homes and then pass them on to their heirs without paying the capital gains accrued over the years. In fact, most 1031 exchanges are done by individuals rather than corporations.

Now as part of the Biden administration’s proposed new economic plan there will be a further reduction to the benefits of the 1031 exchanges. The proposal would abolish 1031 exchanges on real estate profits of more than $500,000. This would probably eliminate the benefit to corporations to use the exchanges, but still allow benefits for individuals and small investors. As always, everyone’s tax liability and positions need to be reviewed by professionals in the field.

There is no question that this has been a tax loophole since 1921 and this isn’t the first time the federal government has had its eye on it. I do, however, question how much benefit there will be left for individuals and small investors if the price of properties continues to skyrocket.

And, while we’re talking property values, there was an Emerging Housing Market Index published at the end of April by The WSJ/Realtor.com organization. The index ranks the 300 biggest metro areas in the U.S. based on economic health and lifestyle data, including unemployment rate, wages, commute time and small-business loans.

Out of the top 50 metro areas, the only one in the state of Florida was the North Port-Sarasota-Bradenton region, coming in at number 47. It’s an interesting list to look at if you follow real estate trends and how they may have changed in the past year. Coeur D’Alene in Idaho came in first, followed by Austin, Texas and Springfield, Ohio. The only areas in the northeast were two upstate New York regions – Rochester and Buffalo – and one in New Jersey, in Trenton. The index points to the metro areas where homebuyers are seeking an appreciating housing market and appealing lifestyle with amenities.

Keep your eye on the new proposed economic plan by the federal government. There may be other proposals tucked in the legislation that could affect the real estate market. Also, keep your eye on the emerging markets around the country. COVID-19 has changed many things this past year and real estate is definitely at the forefront. Stay safe.

Reel Time: Angler’s action guide

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

I’ve written a lot lately about the critical issues facing our local waters and the need for anglers (everyone really) to get involved in efforts to protect them. What does it mean to get involved? How can you best accomplish your goals? Good questions. I realized late in life the power and necessity to make my voice heard and exercise my power at the polls. That’s why I wanted to share the information I’ve gleaned by asking those very questions.

Complaining about something we have some control over and doing nothing about it works against your interests. Unfortunately, inaction often becomes glaringly apparent when it’s too late. Learning how to exercise your rights effectively and efficiently is more critical than ever.  Here are a few ways I’ve found to be efficient and links you can use to get your voice heard.

Reel Time
A lyngyba algae bloom stretches from the Manatee River to Perico Island on Monday, May 3. Capt. Justin Moore | Submitted

Write letters. I’ve found writing letters to the editor of the local newspapers is a terrific way for the average citizen to be heard. Chances are the people who need to hear what you’re saying are paying attention. Locally I submit letters to the Anna Maria Island Sun, The Observer Group, The Bradenton Herald and the Sarasota Herald-Tribune. Each of these same papers may allow you to submit a guest editorial. Also consider writing letters and perhaps asking for a meeting with a legislator.

Attend meetings and speak out. The slogan, “Think globally, act locally” is powerful and locally perhaps the most effective way to make a real difference. Attend local commission meetings and either speak in person or have your comments read to commissioners. Check on how to do this by using search terms like address the Anna Maria  (substitute your city) City Commission. The same goes for Manatee County or whatever county you may reside in. If you’re concerned about an issue that affects you and your children’s future and you don’t act, there’s one thing you can count on – others will be making the decisions based on interests that might support them financially but have a negative effect on you.

Nothing makes that point as dramatically as the recent debacle at Piney Point where inaction over decades led to the dumping of 215 million gallons of phosphate process water containing 10 times the nitrogen of raw sewage.

I think you’ll find taking action is empowering. By taking action you’ll soon realize that you have a voice and that voice has power. But only if you use it.

Castles in the Sand

Good grief, it’s almost hurricane season

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

Let me be the first to welcome you to the 2021 North Atlantic hurricane season. Technically, it doesn’t start until June 1, however, based on what we lived through last hurricane season in the middle of a 100-year pandemic, you can’t start too early to prepare.

On April 8, Colorado State University released its predictions for the 2021 hurricane season, predicting an above-average season with 17 named storms, eight hurricanes and four major hurricanes. The average hurricane season is considered 14 named storms, seven hurricanes and three major hurricanes. In addition, the National Hurricane Center will begin tropical storm warnings this year on May 15 just to add a couple of more weeks to our “cone” watching.

And we have a new list of names – one of the things I always look forward to. We start with Ana, then Bill, Claudette, Danny and Elsa for the first five. Wanda is the last and none of us ever wants to see the Greek alphabet again in our lifetime.

By now, even if you have only lived through one hurricane season, you know what to do. Last May, I said that preparing for hurricanes was the exact opposite of preparing for a COVID-19 lockdown in many ways. At the beginning of hurricane season, we clean out our freezers in preparation for losing power for an extended period, as opposed to the beginning of the COVID-19 lockdown, when many of us filled our freezers so we didn’t need to do too much big-store shopping.

However, both natural disasters still require stocking up on non-perishables, water, batteries, canned goods, don’t forget the manual can opener or buy pop tops, ice to get you through a few days, full gas tanks and prescriptions for you and your family.

Now is also the time to think about those window and door coverings if they’re old and vulnerable to high winds. Start planning on where you will move outdoor furniture, plants, awnings and other objects that can become flying missiles in a storm. Boats in the water that can’t be moved to dry storage need to have their lines doubled up and extra lines added.

The mymanatee.org website has a lot of detailed information concerning disaster kits and important papers that should be in a place that can be quickly accessed if you need to evacuate. Also, know where your local shelter is. Even though you think you’ll never need a shelter you may be surprised; I was during Hurricane Irma.

Since flooding goes along with hurricanes, understand which flood zone you live in and even if not required by a lender, purchase flood insurance. The Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) manages the subsidized program and it’s a prudent investment for all homeowners.

Speaking of flood insurance, FEMA announced an overview of flood insurance premium rate increases that will go into effect on Oct. 1 of this year. This increase was delayed from last year after the agency received pressure from Congress to delay the increases. Keep in mind that Florida is in the crosshairs of FEMA, which always runs a deficit since 35% of their policies are in the state of Florida. More about this as we get closer to the October date.

Since I welcomed you to hurricane season, I hope I can also be one of the first to say on Nov. 30, thank goodness it’s over. Be prepared, and we’ll all get through another year together. Stay safe.

WMFR logo

WMFR board may raise 2021-22 assessment rates

Written by SUN contributor on . Posted in Community News, West Manatee Fire Rescue.

BRADENTON – Rates may be increasing for residents and business owners in the West Manatee Fire Rescue District, but if they do increase, it will only be by 4% for the 2021-22 fiscal year.

Commissioners held their annual mid-year budget workshop on April 20 prior to the start of their monthly meeting. During the meeting, they reviewed where the district currently sits with its 2020-21 budget six months into the fiscal year and where staff sees the district going financially during the next fiscal year beginning Oct. 1.

At the mid-year point, staff reported that the district is right on target with 51.44% of expenses accounted for and 86.15% of total income collected. WMFR’s total break-even budget for the 2020-21 fiscal year includes $9,410,362 in expenses. Those expenses take into account $1.631 million in capital expenses largely attributed to the construction of WMFR’s new administration building.

The proposed 2021-22 fiscal year budget is projected to break even at $8,238,154, a difference of -$1,172,208 from the current year. That number includes a 4% assessment increase proposed by Chief Ben Rigney to help cover the costs of a new three-year employment contract currently wrapping up in negotiations between the district and the firefighters’ union.

WMFR’s assessments are non-ad valorem, meaning that the amount of the assessment is tied to the size of a structure on a lot, or a flat fee if the lot is vacant, and whether the use is residential or commercial.

A 4% increase in rates would bring the district’s projected assessment rate revenue up to $7,820,586.80, an estimated increase of $300,791.80 over the current fiscal year’s projected assessment revenue of $7,519,795. Rigney projects $365,967.67 in increased costs for the 2021-22 fiscal year but says what the district doesn’t make up for in rate increases can be achieved through lowered costs in other areas.

If commissioners vote during their May meeting to increase the district’s rates by 4%, the residential base rate will increase by $7.82 to $203.35 with a residential per square foot increase from $0.1153 to $0.1199 for every square foot of a building over 1,000 square feet. For a 2,000-square-foot home, the rate would increase from the current $310.85 to $323.28; a 3,000-square-foot home would increase from $426.17 to $443.22 and a 4,000-square-foot home would increase from $541.50 to $563.16.

With a 4% increase, the commercial base rate would go from $485.94 to $505.38, an increase of $19.41. The commercial per square foot rate would go from $0.2104 to $0.2188 for the amount of square feet over 1,000. For a 2,000-square-foot commercial space, the rate would increase to $724.23. At 3,000 square feet, the rate would be $943.08 and at 4,000 square feet, the rate would increase to $1,161.92 for a commercial building.

For residential properties, Rigney said the average increase would be $12.50 with a $28 increase for commercial properties.

WMFR’s assessment rate is noted on the TRIM notices mailed out in the fall and collected as a part of the owner’s property tax bill.

Assessment rates are allowed to be increased by the fire district each year according to the personal income growth number, or PIG, determined by the U. S. Bureau of Economic Analysis. This year’s PIG is 6.8% for the state of Florida, though the maximum increase considered and dismissed by WMFR commissioners was 5.64%.

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Where's Bortie?

Where’s Bortie?

Written by Cindy Lane on . Posted in Outdoors, Sea turtles.

Loggerhead sea turtle Bortie is headed away from Anna Maria Island Gulf waters, where she was spotted on April 17. Turtle watchers thought she might nest again on AMI – she was satellite-tagged after laying a nest in June 2018 on Coquina Beach (see the red star on the map) – but she swam by, perhaps because red tide appeared in local waters last month. Bortie competed in the Sea Turtle Conservancy’s 11th Annual Tour de Turtles in 2018, placing 10th out of 13 contestants with 351 logged miles. Turtle nesting season began locally on May 1 and ends on Oct. 31 Please keep beachfront lights out for nesting!

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WMFR staff celebrates four promotions

Written by SUN contributor on . Posted in Community News, West Manatee Fire Rescue.

BRADENTON – There was a festive atmosphere among the crowd gathered for West Manatee Fire Rescue District’s April board meeting as commissioners and staff celebrated the promotions of four firefighters.

Kicking off the celebrations were the promotions of firefighters Ashton Jasinski and Max Pollock from reserve to third-class firefighters with the district. These two promotions were especially touching for the gathered crowd because both men are legacy WMFR firefighters and both received their badges from their fathers.

First up was Pollock, who received his badge from his father Brett. Brett Pollock retired as the district’s deputy chief in January 2016. Max Pollock started off his career with the district more than two years ago as a reserve firefighter.

Next Jasinski was honored with his promotion to firefighter third-class and awarded his badge by his father, WMFR Battalion Chief Rich Jasinski.

“This is probably one of the proudest moments of my career,” Battalion Chief Jasinski said before hugging his son in congratulations in front of the assembled crowd.

Also celebrating a promotion with his family present was firefighter Frank Agresta. Agresta, who has been with the district for five years, was promoted to firefighter first-class.

Another firefighter celebrating during the April 20 district board meeting was Paul Hopkins who was promoted to captain after serving for four years with WMFR.

All of the promotions received a round of applause from the group of friends, family and district staff in attendance with WMFR’s commissioners and Chief Ben Rigney also offering a hearty congratulations to each firefighter.

Battalion Chief Rich Jasinski pins a badge on his son, firefighter Ashton Jasinski who was promoted from a reserve to firefighter third-class with West Manatee Fire Rescue District. - Submitted | WMFR

Battalion Chief Rich Jasinski pins a badge on his son, firefighter Ashton Jasinski who was promoted from a reserve to firefighter third-class with West Manatee Fire Rescue District. - Submitted | WMFR

Firefighter Max Pollock is congratulated on his promotion from reserve to firefighter third-class with WMFR by his father Brett, the district’s former deputy chief. - Submitted | WMFR

Firefighter Max Pollock is congratulated on his promotion from reserve to firefighter third-class with WMFR by his father Brett, the district’s former deputy chief. - Submitted | WMFR

Firefighter Frank Agresta celebrates his promotion to firefighter first-class with his wife pinning his new badge on his dress uniform. - Submitted | WMFR

Firefighter Frank Agresta celebrates his promotion to firefighter first-class with his wife pinning his new badge on his dress uniform. - Submitted | WMFR

The Jasinski family celebrates Ashton Jasinski’s promotion to firefighter third-class during an April board meeting at WMFR’s administration office. - Submitted | WMFR

The Jasinski family celebrates Ashton Jasinski’s promotion to firefighter third-class during an April board meeting at WMFR’s administration office. - Submitted | WMFR

Captain Paul Hopkins celebrates his promotion with his family after the promotion ceremony at WMFR. - Submitted | WMFR

Captain Paul Hopkins celebrates his promotion with his family after the promotion ceremony at WMFR. - Submitted | WMFR

Newly-promoted firefighter third-class Max Pollock celebrates the career milestone with his family. - Submitted | WMFR

Newly-promoted firefighter third-class Max Pollock celebrates the career milestone with his family. - Submitted | WMFR

WMFR Battalion Chief Rich Jasinski hugs his son Ashton after he was promoted to firefighter third-class with the district. - Submitted | WMFR

WMFR Battalion Chief Rich Jasinski hugs his son Ashton after he was promoted to firefighter third-class with the district. - Submitted | WMFR

Newly promoted Captain Paul Hopkins has his new badge pinned on him during an April 20 promotion ceremony at WMFR’s administration offices. - Submitted | WMFR

Newly promoted Captain Paul Hopkins has his new badge pinned on him during an April 20 promotion ceremony at WMFR’s administration offices. - Submitted | WMFR

Former WMFR Deputy Chief Brett Pollock pins a firefighter’s badge on his son, Max, April 20 during the fire district’s promotion ceremony. - Submitted |WMFR

Former WMFR Deputy Chief Brett Pollock pins a firefighter’s badge on his son, Max, April 20 during the fire district’s promotion ceremony. - Submitted |WMFR

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