Pines residents must pay
BY LESLIE LAKE SUN CORRESPONDENT | llake@amisun.com
BRADENTON BEACH – Some Pines Trailer Park residents who withheld lot rental payments following last year’s hurricanes were served with demand for payment notices on March 17. The notices required either immediate payment of the full amounts of past due lot rental fees or vacating the premises within five days.
Skim's up!
Barrel, 12, above (his surf nickname), makes a smooth landing. Cooper (inset), 7, does a hop trick.
Holmes Beach mayor responds to DOGE letter
Gov. Ron DeSantis’ new DOGE task force seeks to reduce wasteful government spending.
BY JOE HENDRICKS SUN CORRESPONDENT | jhendricks@amisun.com
HOLMES BEACH – Island leaders are under a deadline to respond to a letter they received this month from the new state DOGE task force, and the Holmes Beach mayor has already taken action. Gov. Ron DeSantis issued an executive order on Feb. 24 that created the Florida State Department of Governmental Efficiency (DOGE) task force. On March 18, the Office of the Governor’s new DOGE task force electronically transmitted a two-page letter to the cities of Holmes Beach, Anna Maria, Bradenton Beach and all other Florida municipalities regarding their financial condition.
GOV. RON DESANTIS | SUBMITTED Gov. Ron DeSantis shared this graphic on social media when announcing the formation of the DOGE task force.
Addressed to “Dear Local Official,” the letter begins by stating, “Pursuant to Executive Order 25-44, the Executive Office of the Governor has established an EOG DOGE Team which will use advanced technology to identify, review and report on unnecessary spending within county and municipal governments and recommend legislative
The notices, taped to the doors of mobile homes at the park and sent by certified mail, are from park ownership Pines Park Investors LLC and the Agent for Community, The Urban Group.
“You have failed to pay lot rental amount for the period through March 17, 2025 in the amount of ($...). The total amount due as of the date of this demand is ($...),” the notice states, with amounts due varying by unit.
“Demand is hereby made that you pay the total lot rental amount now due, or deliver possession of the premises to the undersigned within five days from the date of delivery of this notice (allowing five days from the postmark date, excluding
Drift-In owners granted temporary use permit to reopen
The Drift-In is scheduled to re-open on Friday, April 4.
BY LESLIE LAKE SUN CORRESPONDENT | llake@amsisun.com
BRADENTON BEACH – Six months after Hurricane Helene and subsequent permitting obstacles shuttered the doors to the Drift-In, the Bridge Street bar will reopen, at least temporarily pending city review, on Friday, April 4.
The city commission voted unanimously on March 20 to grant the Drift-In a temporary use permit allowing the use of the main building and new tiki bar pending the completion and inspection of remaining improvements.
In a narrative submitted to the city, property owner Derek Williams (1715 Ventures LLC) stated that the Drift-In
property was damaged during last year’s hurricanes, and he has been diligently working to re-open and put his employees back to work.
“The tiki structure and tent area existing on site prior to the hurricanes were replaced with a single tiki structure and the property owner is in the process of seeking Major Development Plan approval for the permanent use of that structure,” according to the document. “The property owner is requesting that the city consider issuing a Temporary Use Permit so that the tiki area may be utilized in the meantime to allow this business to operate during this critical season.”
The proposed use would have the same number (60) and configuration of outdoor seats as existed on the site prior to the hurricanes.
CINDY LANE | SUN
Mingo’s restaurant coming to Holmes Beach
Ben and Jason Sato’s new restaurant will occupy the second floor of the former Wells Fargo bank building.
BY JOE HENDRICKS SUN CORRESPONDENT | jhendricks@amisun.com
HOLMES BEACH – Three years ago, Ben Sato opened his gRub tropical barbeque restaurant in Anna Maria. He now plans to open Mingo’s Rooftop Restaurant and Sports Bar in Holmes Beach with his brother, Jason Sato, as his business partner. Mingo’s name is derived from the word flamingo and a flamingo holding a tropical drink is featured in the restaurant logo. The 125-seat, family-friendly restaurant and bar will occupy the second floor of the former Wells Fargo bank building at the corner of Gulf Drive and Marina Drive, at 5327 and 5325 Gulf Drive. The former bank building and properties are being redeveloped by Island businessman Jake
Spooner. The space leased to Mingo’s will sit atop Spooner’s ground-level Island Bazaar retail store and the space leased to The Fudge Factory candy and ice cream shop. Spooner’s business operations will also include a miniature golf course on the east side of the property and a small, stand-alone arcade.
Ben will oversee the pending interior buildout of the restaurant space and the day-to-day business operations when Mingo’s opens in late 2025 or early 2026. He recently gave The Sun a tour of the vacant space to be transformed into Mingo’s.
“I’ve known Jake forever. We grew up on the Island together. It’s a great location and being up top here will give us great visibility,” he said.
The exterior wall at the south end of the Mingo’s space will be removed so the interior restaurant space can be extended further south towards Gulf Drive, leaving enough space for a covered deck at the south end
of the building. In the center of the deck area will be an artificial turf-covered play area where cornhole and other games can be played.
“The footprint of the building’s going to be the same. We’ll have a fun vibe with a turf area outside for the kids to play,” Sato said. “The restaurant concept is elevated bar food – bar food with a little twist on it.”
The Mingo’s menu will include “Tachos” (nachos made with tater tots), other types of nachos, chicken wings, seafood tacos, flatbreads, salads and more. gRub sells beer and wine but not liquor, so liquor service will be a new experience for Sato; and he’s already developing some signature frozen cocktails with a focus on tequila-based drinks.
“We’ll have full liquor but it’s
not going to be a party atmosphere. This concept will be more focused on kids because of the miniature golf course and that’s how I approached the menu, the layout and the vibe,” he said.
Mingo’s will open at 11 a.m. and close at 10 p.m., when the miniature golf course closes.
“We won’t have late-night hours,” he said.
The south end of the expanded interior space will feature an accordion-style door that can be opened to create an open-air feel inside the restaurant.
“We’ll open it up so it’s basically indoor-outdoor seating with a breeze,” Sato said.
Mingo’s will have a tropical appearance and feel that highlights the pink and teal colors often associated with Florida. The exposed “wave ceiling” will have cloth hanging from it that creates a wave effect when the breeze moves it.
“I learned a lot opening gRub and I’m excited to open Mingo’s,” Sato said.
JOE HENDRICKS | SUN
Ben Sato provided a tour of the future Mingo’s restaurant space.
ISLAND NEWS
IN BRIEF
Planning and Zoning Board member sought
The city of Anna Maria has an opening on the Planning and Zoning Board and is accepting applications. The board meets one Wednesday per month to review city regulations and land use matters and make recommendations to the mayor and city commission. The application form can be downloaded at the city website, www.cityofannamaria.com or obtained from the city clerk’s office. For more information, email amadmin@ cityofannamaria.com or call 941-708-6130.
Anna Maria Commission meets Thursday
The Anna Maria City Commission will meet Thursday, March 27 at 1 p.m. The meeting will begin with general public comment on non-agenda items. The commission will then be presented with the second and final reading of an ordinance that will allow qualified historic preservation board members to also serve as Planning and Zoning Board members. The mayor and commission will extend the local emergency declarations for the city’s ongoing hurricane recovery efforts. The mayor and city general manager will provide a capital projects update. To access the meeting by phone, call 1-929-205-6099 and enter the meeting ID: 85392000280.
Bradenton Beach code enforcement now under planning department
At the March 20 Bradenton Beach commission meeting, Police Chief and Public Works Director John Cosby asked that the Code Enforcement Department be returned to the purview of the Planning Department. “Code enforcement has been under the PD (Police Department) for a couple of years now,” Cosby said. “It was moved over. There were some structural issues and it was suggested that I take it on to straighten it out and we did.” Regarding Code Enforcement officer Evan Harbus, Cosby said, “In speaking with the new building official (Bill Palmer), we’re very confident in his abilities and they are working together on a day to day basis. There’s no need for me to be in the middle of it. I feel comfortable moving it back over.” A motion to approve moving code enforcement back under the planning department was made by Commissioner Scott Bear and seconded by Commissioner Jan Vosburgh. There was no public comment and the motion passed unanimously.
Correction
Jake Parsons is one of the businessmen interested in opening a package liquor store on Pine Avenue in Anna Maria. A story in last week’s Sun listed an incorrect first name for Parsons.
Clarification
On March 11, Holmes Beach Police Chief Bill Tokajer said e-bikes are allowed to travel on sidewalks. He later clarified that state law allows e-bikes on sidewalks but a city ordinance prohibits riding e-bikes on Holmes Beach sidewalks.
Scan this code with your smartphone to go there.
Pines residents question seawall cap permitting
Residents say the cap acted as a dam during the hurricanes and increased flooding to adjacent property.
BY LESLIE LAKE SUN CORRESPONDENT | llake@amisun.com
BRADENTON BEACH – Some Pines Trailer Park residents are questioning whether permits exist for a seawall cap built in 2024 at the park that they say may have acted as a dam during the 2024 hurricanes, exacerbating the flooding of mobile homes.
The Sun requested a copy of the permit for the seawall cap on March 13 and the Bradenton Beach permit clerk wrote in an email that she was unable to locate such a permit. The seawall cap is adjacent to another seawall cap reportedly owned by the city.
The Sun asked Bradenton attorney Louis Najmy, who represents Pines Park Investors LLC and its manager, Shawn Kaleta, the owners of the Pines Trailer Park, for a copy of the permit on March 14 and received the following response by text: “While I was not able to confirm if the current ownership did the cap, we’ve confirmed with the city that permits are not required for caps only especially for flood protection when matching neighboring caps,” he wrote.
However, Bradenton Beach Building Official Bill Palmer said a permit and inspection is required for a seawall cap.
“I cannot speak to this particular issue since I was not present at the time, but a permit and inspections are required for a seawall cap,” Palmer wrote in a March 17 email to The Sun. “Section 808 of the City's Land Development Code regulates the repair and construction of seawalls.”
“We saw it being built around March last year,” Pines Park resident Joe Klingler said, adding that during the hurricanes last fall, water came up from the Gulf side and pooled at the seawall.
“Once it hit that filled up,” he said. “The damage was worse because of that - 100%. I’m a farmer. I built three lakes on my farm and there’s real strict rules. When you put a dam on a farm, you cannot put it against the water - it could come up into the neighbor’s property. This is the same thing. He built a dam knowing it was going to flood us.”
“Don’t get me wrong, we still would have had a flood, but we wouldn’t have had it hit the wall, stay and go higher and come back this way and sit here for four hours,” Klingler said. “That’s where you get the seepage and it’s more damage. When the water just comes up and goes away, we wouldn’t have even had to come up and replace our walls.”
He said the sea life that was once abundant beyond the seawall is no longer there.
“No matter what, they made a lake out of this place,” Klingler said. “We used to have manatees and fish at this wall, not anymore. The seagrass there is gone.”
Another Pines resident, who asked not to have his name used, said, “While proving motive in court is difficult, what’s undeniable is that this 200-foot illegal structure acted as a dam, significantly worsening the flooding.”
In his email, Palmer outlined
the requirements of permits and inspections: “808.6. Permits. An application for a permit to construct a seawall shall be submitted for review, along with plans and specifications. Permits for construction or repair of a seawall shall not be also a permit to dredge, fill, and grade.
“808.8. Specifications - Caps. Caps shall be cast over tops of the sheet piles and shall be continuous. Caps shall be reinforced by horizontal bars not smaller than No. 4, and shall have a minimum of two (2) inches of concrete cover in all directions. Design, spacing, and reinforcing shall be provided according to the referenced standards for formed in place concrete. When forms and reinforcing bars are in place, the building official shall cause an inspection to be made before the concrete is poured.
“808.9. Tiebacks. Vertical sheet piling bulkheads shall have tiebacks every 12 feet, and the anchor block shall be a minimum of 12 feet from and at right angles to the bulkhead. Tiebacks shall be hot dipped galvanized at minimum and not less than ¾” thick. Backfill shall be placed after tiebacks and anchor blocks shall have been inspected and approved by the city.”
LESLIE LAKE | SUN
Some Pines residents say the seawall cap constructed in 2024 acted as a dam, causing increased flooding during the hurricanes last year. Building official said permits and inspections are required.
Commissioners consider temporary shelter ordinance
Under a proposed ordinance, hurricane-impacted residents could put an RV or trailer on their property for up to three years.
BY LESLIE LAKE SUN CORRESPONDENT | llake@amisun.com
BRADENTON BEACH – At the March 20 commission meeting, commissioners considered Ordinance 25-563, which would allow hurricane-impacted homeowners to place a temporary shelter - an RV or trailer - on their residential property for up to three years following the governor’s declaration of a state of emergency while repairs to the home are being made.
“The ordinance will accommo -
date individuals who have suffered a loss of their homes from the hurricanes with an immediate way of continuing to stay on the Island in a temporary shelter,” City Attorney Ricinda Perry said.
Commissioner Ralph Cole asked Perry to define allowable temporary shelter.
“The statute that I referenced says for the purpose of this section the term ‘temporary shelter’ includes but is not limited to a recreational vehicle, a trailer or similar structure placed on a residential property,” Perry said.
According to the ordinance, “All recreational vehicles and park trailers shall be fully licensed and ready for highway use, which means the recreational vehicle
or park trailer is on wheels or jacking system (wheel-based unit), is attached to the site only by quick-disconnect type utilities and security devices for water, sewer and electric.”
Permanent attachments, such as stairs, decks and porches are not allowed.
Bradenton Beach resident Betsy Sillers has been displaced from her home since Hurricane Helene on Sept. 26.
“We took a big hit, we cannot live in it and we’ve been in a hotel for five months,” she said.
She said she and her husband are actively looking for a trailer and asked about size restrictions, placement and screening.
“Let’s try to make this as easy as
we possibly can,” Cole said.
Commissioner Deborah Scaccianoce said she is working on the permit form.
“Basically what we need is a site plan,” she said. “You apply for the permit. You put the dimensions of the trailer, where you want to put it. If it’s large, they’re going to require you to screen it so that it’s not unsightly for people around you.”
An addition to the ordinance was made requiring the property owner to remove the trailer from the property in the event of a storm event for safety reasons.
The second reading of the ordinance will be at the Thursday, April 3 city commission meeting.
The Anna Maria Island Sun Staff
Owner | CEO
Mike Field
Editor
Cindy Lane
General Manager
Bob Alexander
Reporters | Photographers
Joe Hendricks
Leslie Lake
Columnists
Louise Bolger
Rusty Chinnis
Contributors
Steve Borggren
Capt. Rick Grassett
Layout Ricardo Fonseca
Advertising Director
Shona Otto
Classified Ads
Bob Alexander
Graphics
Elaine Stroili
Ricardo Fonseca
Distribution
Bob Alexander
Connor Field
Tony McNulty
Brian Smith
Accounting
Leslie Ketchum
Co-founding publishers
Mike Field
Maggie McGinley Field
Family-owned since 2000 ©2025
Longboard Communications Inc.
Drop us a line
Got an opinion, a complaint or a compliment? Is there something you need to get off your chest? Send us a letter to the editor and have your say. There are a couple of ways to do it. The easiest and most direct is to email The Sun at news@amisun.com. Remember to put Letter to the Editor in the subject field. Or you can snail-mail
a letter to us at The Anna Maria Island Sun, P.O. Box 1189, Anna Maria, FL 34216. Letters should be kept to 300 words or less and must contain your name and the city in which you reside. Personal attacks and obscene language will not be printed. The Sun reserves the right to edit letters for length or content.
Roser Church hosting pancake breakfast
ON THE AGENDA EVENTS
ANNA MARIA
10005 GULF DRIVE
FOR INFORMATION, CALL 941-708-6130
Visit www.cityofannamaria. com or contact city hall for more information.
HOLMES
BEACH
5801 MARINA DRIVE
FOR INFORMATION, CALL 941-708-5800
Visit www.holmesbeachfl.org or contact city hall for more information.
FRIDAY, MARCH 28
ROSER CHURCH | SUBMITTED Breakfast will be served at Roser Church on Saturday, March 29.
Roser Memorial Community Church will host its last pancake breakfast of the season in the Fellowship Hall on Saturday, March 29 from 8-11 a.m. All are welcome and the $10 fee includes pancakes, sausage, applesauce, biscuits and gravy, juice, coffee or tea. Children under 5 eat free. Volunteers are needed to help serve breakfast and clean up afterwards. To volunteer, please visit www.RoserChurch. com/pancake-breakfast or call the church office at 941-778-0414. After breakfast, stroll across the street and browse the bargains in the Guild Thrift Shop that’s open from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m.
March 27, 1 p.m. City Commission
BRADENTON BEACH
107 GULF DRIVE N. FOR INFORMATION, CALL 941-778-1005
Visit www.cityofbradentonbeach.com or contact city hall for more information.
April 2, 1 p.m. Planning and Zoning
April 3, 6 p.m. City Commission
March 25, 2 p.m., City Commission meeting/work session
April 1, 8:30-10:30 a.m., Landscape Best Practices Workshop
April 2, 10 a.m., Parks & Beautification Committee Meeting
BRADENTON
April 15, 6 p.m. West Manatee Fire and Rescue District monthly meeting, 701 63rd St. W., Bradenton
The Haunting of AMI, The Center of Anna Maria Island, 407 Magnolia Ave., Anna Maria, 6 p.m.
Cortez Village Historical Society/Florida Maritime Museum coffee social with coffee, tea and conversation at the Cortez Cultural Center, 11655 Cortez Road W., 9-11 a.m.
SATURDAY MARCH 29
The Haunting of AMI, The Center of Anna Maria Island, 407 Magnolia Ave., Anna Maria, 6 p.m.
Roser Memorial Community Church Fellowship Hall, pancake breakfast, $10, 512 Pine Ave., 8-11 a.m.
‘Lights on Broadway’ inspires garden club flower show
“Lights on Broadway” was the theme for this year’s flower show.
BY JOE HENDRICKS SUN CORRESPONDENT | jhendricks@amisun.com
ANNA MARIA – Inspired by Broadway musicals, Anna Maria Island Garden Club members displayed their floral arranging talents and creativity during the club’s annual flower show.
Held in the Roser Memorial Community Church Fellowship Hall in Anna Maria on March 21, this year’s theme was “Lights on Broadway” and the Broadway musicals represented included “Annie,” “Wicked,” “The Phantom of the Opera,” “The Lion King, “Mary Poppins,” “Oklahoma,” “South Pacific,” “Mama Mia” and “Hello Dolly.”
Participating club members entered their floral arrangements in one or more of the 10 design and material categories and several club members entered multiple arrangements. Upon arrival, flower show attendees were given tickets to place next to their favorite arrangement in each of the 10 categories and some of the arrangements were auctioned in the silent auction that concluded the show.
Garden club member Ginger Huhn said she and the other club members were delighted to have as many arrangements as they did given that so many members remain displaced by Hurricanes Helene and Milton.
Founded in 1951, “The purpose of this club shall be to stimulate knowledge and love of gardening; to aid in the protection of native trees, plants and birds; provide charitable support for our community and to encourage civic planting and conservation.”
Recent AMI Garden Club beautification projects and partnerships include the installation of metal wind sculptures at City Pier Park in Anna Maria and the Island Branch Library in Holmes Beach. Club members meet once a month in the Roser Church Fellowship Hall. The Friday, April 11 meeting at 11:30 a.m. will feature the club’s annual high tea and will be the club’s last meeting of the season. The club doesn’t meet during the off-season summer months when many members return to their summer homes. The AMI Garden Club welcomes new members and the annual membership dues are $20. For more information, call 941-312-1880 or email gardenclubami@ gmail.com.
JANET RILEY | SUBMITTED
These seven ladies won the 10 categories featured in this year’s “Lights on Broadway” flower show. Front row, from left, are Joanne Taylor Brown, Kathy Morgan Johnson and Renita Bertoluzzi. Back row, from left, are Kitty Kole, Kim Darnell, Ginger Huhn and Janet Riley.
Ginger Huhn’s “Wicked”themed arrangement featured green mums and a single tulip.
JANET RILEY | SUBMITTED
JANET RILEY | SUBMITTED
Renita Bertoluzzi’s “Lion King”-themed arrangement included sunflowers and roses.
JANET RILEY | SUBMITTED
Sculptor and garden club member Joanne Taylor Brown created this “South Pacific”-themed arrangement using begonias, palm fronds and a ceramic bird house that she sculpted.
Heritage Day celebrates historical museum’s recovery
The hurricanedamaged historical museum officially reopened on March 25.
BY JOE HENDRICKS SUN CORRESPONDENT | jhendricks@amisun.com
ANNA MARIA – The annual Heritage Day Festival took on even greater significance this year because of the storm surge damage that the Anna Maria Island Historical Museum suffered during Hurricane Helene on Sept. 26, 2024.
Hosted by the Anna Maria Island Historical Society and held on the museum grounds at 402 Pine Ave., Heritage Day celebrated the history of an Island that’s weathered many storms since it was first settled in the mid-1800s.
The storm surge destroyed the museum’s display cases but most of the historical artifacts and items inside them were salvaged and placed in newlyreconfigured displays after the floors were replaced and the water-damaged walls were repaired. Some historical documents and newspaper archives were damaged, lost or displaced, including The Sun’s archives, which suffered minor damage and are no longer on display.
Carolyn Orshak serves as president of the board of directors for the Historical Society and about halfway
through the four-hour event, she said, “This is phenomenal. We had people here before we started at 10 o’clock. They’ve been so supportive and some were in awe that the museum has come back from the damage they saw in the pictures we shared on Facebook.
Thank you to everyone that helped and supported us.”
Inside the museum building originally constructed as an icehouse in 1920, attendees enjoyed self-guided or docentguided tours of the exhibits that include vintage clothing and military uniforms, historical artifacts, informational plaques, maps and illustrations, antique fishing gear, a digital photo collage of the damage that Hurricanes Helene and Milton inflicted on the Island and more.
This year’s event featured a dedication ceremony for
a painting donated by local artist and longtime Island resident Joan Voyles. The painting Voyles created in 2012 now hangs near the dresses and other artifacts she depicted in it.
“The painting by Joan was done when we had our museum refreshed and restored around 2011 and 2012,” Orshak explained. “Joan came in and saw these beautiful dresses and artifacts and went back to her studio and painted what our museum looked like back in 2012. It’s a pan pastel painting and it’s absolutely gorgeous. She came across this painting just a few weeks ago, brought it to the museum and asked if we’d like to have it. I was overcome with emotion because it captures our museum’s history; and Joan was happy to see the dresses had been saved. Heritage Day
is the essence of us giving back to the community, every one that’s helped us stay alive as a historical society and the donations and support from the townspeople, including artists like Joan.”
FESTIVAL ACTIVITIES
Holmes Beach-based Pizzano’s Pizza was this year’s
featured a dozen other ven dors whose offerings included locally-themed paintings, gel wax candles, jewelry and crystals, local honey, lemonade, face painting, crocheted items, historical novels and more.
JOE HENDRICKS | SUN
The AMI Historical Museum building was originally an icehouse.
JOE HENDRICKS | SUN
The museum exhibits have been reconfigured.
JOE HENDRICKS | SUN
Caroyln Orshak is the president of the board of directors for the AMI Historical Society.
CINDY LANE | SUN
Joan Voyles unveiled her pan pastel of the interior of the museum. SEE HERITAGE DAY, PAGE 24
Kiwanis donates to children’s library
The Kiwanis Club of Anna Maria Foundation presented a check to Savanah Byers, Youth Librarian of the Island Library in Holmes Beach, to be given to the Friends of the Island Library to purchase interactive books for the children's section of the library. From left are Kiwanis member Jeanne Faliveno, Foundation Secretary/ Treasurer Sandy Haas-Martens, Savanah Byers, Youth Librarian, Island Library, Foundation Vice President Darrel Shinn, Foundation President Lynn Kruse and Kiwanis member Malcolm Shantz.
Dream foundation awarded donation
The Kiwanis Club of Anna Maria Island Foundation presented a $500 check to the Foundation For Dreams on March 15. From left are Sandy Haas-Martens, foundation secretary/treasurer, Dwayne White and Kayla White, of the Foundation For Dreams, Darrel Shinn, foundation vice president and Brenda Reddy, Kiwanis member and Foundation For Dreams volunteer.
KIWANIS | SUBMITTED
KIWANIS | SUBMITTED
The colorful, boisterous and beloved Sun and Surf parrots have returned.
BY JOE HENDRICKS SUN CORRESPONDENT | jhendricks@amisun.com
HOLMES BEACH – The parrots that live at the Sun and Surf Beach Shop, 5418 Marina Drive, are back at their familiar perch.
On Oct. 7, two days before Hurricane Milton struck, the parrots were relocated to the Birds of Paradise sanctuary in Bradenton founded and operated by Debbie Huckaby. That ordeal required five vehicles, numerous dog crates and a U-Haul truck to transport the large parrot cages that are once again wheeled back inside the store each night.
On March 8, the parrots spent their first day outside the Holmes Beach business again. A visit to Sun and Surf on March 11 found store owner Jennifer Moore feeding and caring for her avian friends while waiting for her business to reopen, which she expects to happen soon.
After expressing her thanks for Huckaby and the Birds of Paradise sanctuary, Moore said, “The birds are back. They don’t like change and they’re so happy to be back in their home environment. They missed the sunshine and salt air. They definitely missed our customers and we’re looking forward to our customers coming back soon.”
The parrots have been part of the Sun and Surf business operations in The Island Shopping Center for 30 years. Moore’s step-dad, Marty Duytschaver, founded the store in 1983. Duytschaver and Moore’s mom, Heather, shared a
The birds are back in town
love for parrots that eventually became part of the Sun and Surf business model for the store that sells clothing, shoes, swimwear, accessories, beach supplies, souvenirs and more. The Sun and Surf website, www.sunandsurfami. com, touts the business as “The Store with the Birds.” Marty and Heather are now retired and live in Michigan.
“My parents, the original owners, would rescue them and adopt them out,” Moore said. “I came in when I was 11 and I’ve taken over the store.”
Regarding the current parrot population, Moore said, “They are not for sale. This is their forever home and these birds are our forever babies. They’re the mascots of the store and sort of an accidental attraction. Birdie is the oldest bird here. She’s in her 50s. We adopted her from a lady who had to go into a nursing home. She had her for 30 years and we’ve had her for something like 20 years now. She sings ‘Old McDonald had a Farm,’ she loves opera and she brings a lot of joy to the store. And Buddy is our greeter.
“All these birds bring a lot of joy to people. They have their own little fan club and people look forward to seeing our birds every year. They sing songs with them, dance with them and the birds get socialization every day. It makes the store a little different than all the other stores on the Island. It’s something we’ve done for 30 years and the birds are part of the Island. They made their mark and it makes the Island even more special,” Moore said.
Sun and Surf employee Lori Kee later said of the parrots’ return: “We’re very happy and that was an emotional day.”
Visit the Birds of Paradise sanctuary online at www.birdsofparadise.org.
JOE HENDRICKS | SUN Yosemite Sam was hatched in 1995. Romeo’s back where he belongs.
JOE HENDRICKS | SUN Congo is a cross between a green-winged macaw and a scarlet macaw.
JENNIFER MOORE | SUBMITTED Birdie’s more than 50 years old and she’s still going strong.
JOE HENDRICKS | SUN Sun and Surf owner Jennifer Moore cares for the beloved store mascots.
JOE HENDRICKS | SUN
On Oct. 7, the Sun and Surf parrots were evacuated before Hurricane Milton arrived.
CRA could be impacted by state bills
The bills call for no new projects and no issuance of new debt after Oct. 1.
BY LESLIE LAKE SUN CORRESPONDENT | llake@amisun.com
BRADENTON BEACH –
Mayor John Chappie asked Community Redevelopment Agency (CRA) members to reach out to elected officials to oppose proposed state Senate and House bills governing the existence of and restrictions on Community Redevelopment Agencies.
“If any of you have any connections with our elected officials, you might want to call them because of the CRA House and Senate bill that would put restrictions on CRAs, and ask them to vote against it,” Chappie said at a March 20 CRA meeting.
Senate Bill 1242 and House Bill 991 propose that:
• A Community Redevelopment Agency may not initiate any new projects or issue any
new debt on or after Oct. 1;
• A community redevelopment agency in existence on July 1, 2025 shall terminate on the expiration date provided in the agency’s charter or on Sept. 30, 2045;
• A community redevelopment agency operating on or after Sept. 30, 2045 may not extend the maturity date of any outstanding bonds.
“As you recall, we renewed our CRA about three years early because this started about three years ago,” Chappie said. “So, we still have quite a long time to go, but there are still restrictions that they’re going to put on the existing CRAs about spending and new projects. It’s going to change business.”
The bills, filed on Feb. 25, provide for the “termination of community redevelopment agencies on a specified date; removing an exception; prohibiting community redevelopment agencies from performing certain actions
on or after a specified date; revising provisions relating to any outstanding bonds of a community redevelopment agency; prohibiting the creation of community redevelopment agencies on or after a specified date; authorizing existing agencies to continue to operate.”
The Bradenton Beach CRA is a special district of the city. Created on Feb. 5, 1992, by the City of Bradenton Beach, the CRA provides financial assistance to the city to create public projects. It oversees and approves the expenditure of annually budgeted and grant funds for projects in the overlay/CRA district, such as the Bradenton Beach Pier and Bridge Street.
The CRA district is bordered on the north by Cortez Road, on the east by Sarasota Bay, including the pier at the end of Bridge Street, on the south by Fifth Street South and on the west by the Gulf of Mexico.
Get a
free native tree at Island chamber for Arbor Day
BY LESLIE LAKE SUN CORRESPONDENT | llake@amisun.com
BRADENTON BEACH – Mayor John Chappie read a proclamation at the March 20 city commission meeting designating Friday, April 25 as Arbor Day in the city.
Chappie asked SCENIC WAVES chair Ingrid McClellan to speak about the proclamation.
“We have been a Tree City USA meeting national standards since 2011,” McClellan said.
“If anyone would like a tree, part of Arbor Day this year will be a tree giveaway of 200 native trees,” she said. “It will be at the Anna Maria Island Chamber of Commerce. It will start on Earth Day, April 22 and go through April 24. So if you would like a free native tree to replace anything lost on your property, come over.”
Additionally there will be an April 25 Bridge Street roundabout landscaping restoration project in honor of Arbor Day.
City to extend permit deadline for non-conforming structures
Holmes Beach city staff proposes amending the city’s Land Development Code (LDC) to assist property owners whose non-conforming structures were damaged by Hurricanes Helene and Milton in 2024.
According to city code, a nonconforming structure is a structure that was compliant, conforming and lawful when built according to previous code requirements but then became non-conforming when new codes were adopted.
The proposed LDC amendment will be discussed during the Tuesday, March 25 city commission work session.
On March 18, Director of Development Services Chad Minor sent the mayor and city commissioners a memo informing them that city ordinance imposes a 180-day timeframe within which
JOE HENDRICKS | SUN Director of Development Services Chad Minor proposes extending the permitting deadline for non-conforming structures.
the owner (or contractor) of an existing non-conforming structure must secure a building permit and start reconstruction. Minor’s memo notes the Wednesday, April 9 deadline to secure those permits is rapidly approaching and is unrealistic for many property owners. Minor’s memo says some property
owners are still waiting on their insurance providers and/or are having trouble securing contractors, demolition contractors and specialty tradespeople that include surveyors and engineers, and owners may also be impacted by other hurricane-related factors.
“Also, the current process to request an extension to the 180-day timeframe is burdensome and unnecessary,” he states in his memo. “Staff proposed extending the timeframe to 180 to 360 days and providing for a one-time administrative extension not to exceed 180 days.”
The proposed LDC amendment can’t be voted on during an informal, preliminary commission work session and the amendment will be presented again for formal city commission decision-making on April 8.
HBPD warns of YouTube scam
BY LESLIE LAKE SUN CORRESPONDENT | llake@amisun.com
HOLMES BEACH – The Holmes Beach Police Department warns against responding to a fake YouTube email in which cybercriminals attempt to obtain personal information.
Victims will receive an email containing a video from what appears to be YouTube’s CEO. In the video, the “CEO” claims that YouTube is changing its income policy, and you must accept new terms and conditions to make money from your channel. The video says you have seven days to comply, or you will lose access to important features.
The video directs you to click a link to accept the new terms and conditions. But the CEO in the video isn’t real. Cybercriminals have used Artificial Intelligence (AI) to create a fake video, and everything the “CEO” says is an attempt to trick you. Addi-
BEACH BEAT
HOLMES BEACH
March 12, 4:08 a.m., 2500 block, Gulf Drive. Fleeing to elude. Bradenton Beach police notified Holmes Beach police of a reckless driver heading toward the city. Holmes Beach police observed the vehicle, a pickup truck, and followed it, saying it was swerving and failing to maintain a lane. Police activated lights but the vehicle turned onto Manatee Avenue reaching speeds over 115 mph, and nearly crashing into fixed objects. Police deployed spike strips. The unoccupied vehicle was found in the 3000
tionally, the link in the video description leads to a fake web page that the cybercriminals control. If you enter your login information here, they will steal it immediately and access your YouTube account and use it to post cryptocurrency scam videos.
Follow these tips to avoid falling victim to a phishing scam:
• Always verify the source of unexpected emails. Be sure to log in to your YouTube account using the official website or app to check if an email you received is legitimate.
• Never click on unverified links. Hover your mouse over URL links to check if they are legitimate domains.
• Scammers frequently create a sense of urgency to try and trick you into acting impulsively. It is unlikely that YouTube would enact a major policy change with a short deadline for you to respond.
block of 51st Street West. Police say the vehicle contained marijuana, white powder and white crystal substances and an empty beer bottle. The center console contained an ID card along with a birth certificate. Police interviewed the truck’s owner, who said a family member had taken the vehicle without permission. Police applied for an arrest warrant for the driver.
March 18, 2:30 p.m., HBPD, Marina Drive. Rental scam. Complainants state they had booked a rental in January through “Floridagetawayrentals.com” and had paid a $1,000 deposit through Zelle. Additionally, they wired $7,456 through their bank. When they arrived at the address on Feb. 17, another party was at the residence. The complainants notified their bank about fraudulent payments. The website is not currently active.
AMI Chamber hosting golf tournament
The Anna Maria Island Chamber of Commerce will host its 26th annual golf tournament on Friday, May 9 at the IMG Academy Golf Club in Bradenton. Reservations are now being accepted and the registration fee is $650 per team or $170 for an individual golfer. The registration fee includes greens and cart fees, beer and beverages on the course and dinner.
Those who wish to attend the dinner banquet and not golf can do so for $50. The tournament is
sponsored by LaPensee Plumbing, Pools and Air and Tom Sanger Pools and additional event sponsors are sought. Shore Thing Tiki Cruises is sponsoring the in-thehole/closest-to-the-pin helicopter ball drop. 600 balls will be dropped and drop tickets are $20 for a single ticket, $50 for three tickets and $150 for a book of 10 tickets. To register or get more information call 941-778-1541 or email info@ amichamber.org.
SUBMITTED
DRIFT-IN: Owners granted temporary use permit to reopen
ATTORNEY, COMMISSIONER COMMENTS
Williams was represented by Bradenton attorney Mark Barnebey at the March 20 public hearing.
“This is a fairly simple request,” Barnebey said. “We’ve been moving forward with this project after the hurricane damaged the tiki hut and the tent that had been there previously. We requested a building permit that was approved to replace the damaged structures and then somewhere in the process it was determined that additional approvals were needed. This delayed things and we have gone through the process of seeking a major development plan approval for the permanent use of the structure.”
He said Derek and Helena Williams are anxious to get the establishment up and operating.
“This is very difficult for them and their employees and their customers,” Barnebey said. “We understand that this is something that would be temporary. We propose 180 days or until you make a final decision on the major development permit. We believe this will mitigate some of the costs to the client and we are respectfully requesting approval of the temporary use permit.”
“The seating is the same as under the tents. The tiki hut was there before and there were tents. All this does is put a tiki structure under the entire area that was covered before, there’s no increase in seating at all,” Barnebey said.
“If in granting the temporary use, if you want to condition it or limit it, that might be appropriate,”
attorney Robert Lincoln, representing the city, told commissioners.
Mayor John Chappie asked
if the intent was to open not only the outdoor area, but also the indoor bar area.
“As early as an hour ago, Mr. Palmer (Building Official Bill Palmer) and I spoke, and I spoke to Mr. Serna (Luis Serna), your city planner,”
Williams said. “I’m trying to get the final clarification on the permit for my walk-in cooler, to get that installed and am trying to do it the right way. Once that walk-in is in and the ice machines are there, I can open the inside of
the building. The way the beer is delivered into the bar, it’s through the other bar. Once I get out of here today if you say yes and Mr. Palmer says yes, I have the people at the ready, I will get the installation completed and I will open the place safely.”
Williams said issues with the fire marshal have been resolved regarding the material used on the tiki hut roof.
“The short answer to that (Chappie’s question) is the intent of this request, while it only talks about outdoor seating, is to include all of the elements that are currently subject to building permitting, including the replacement bar under the tiki, the outdoor seating under the tiki and the ice machines under the tiki and to the extent that it is a zoning issue, a walk-in,” Lincoln said.
LESLIE LAKE | SUN
Bradenton Beach Building Official Bill Palmer, at podium, spoke to city commissioners at a March 20 temporary use hearing for the Drift-In with attorney Mark Barnebey, at table, left, and his client, Drift-In owner Derek Williams.
PINES: Pines residents served demand for payment notices
FROM PAGE 1
Saturday, Sunday and legal holidays). If the total lot rental amount now due is not paid on or before April 1, 2025, your lease agreement is terminated and you must immediately vacate the premises.”
The letter states that if lot rental payment is not made and premises are not vacated, an eviction action will be taken, and the recipient may be liable for court costs and attorney’s fees. The letter also states that late charges and delinquency fees will also be due.
The letter closes with: “Please govern yourself accordingly.”
On Dec. 9, 83 of the 86 Pines Trailer Park homeowners received notice from the city that they could repair their hurricane-damaged mobile homes with the proper permits. On Jan. 4, however, the homeowners received notification from the park’s ownership that the park was being closed: “As a direct result of the community-wide damage dealt by hurricanes Helene & Milton, coupled with non-payment of lot rent, Pines Trailer Park is no longer sustainable as a trailer park and must be closed, with an official park closure date of July 31, 2025.”
In a Jan. 27 letter to the Pines Trailer Park Homeowners Association (HOA), Pines Park Investors LLC offered to sell the mobile home park to the residents for $75 million.
On Aug. 5, 2023, Pines Park Investors, LLC purchased the 2.78-acre waterfront mobile home property from The
The Pines Trailer Park clubhouse sustained damage during Hurricanes Helene and Milton in 2024. Residents contend that they withheld lot rent payments due to the continued disrepair of park amenities.
Jackson Partnership LLLP for $16.25 million.
Pines Trailer Park homeowners received an email in February outlining terms for abandonment of their mobile homes and possible extension of their tenancy to Jan. 31, 2026. Those terms include transferring the ownership of their mobile homes to Pines Park Investors LLC.
RESIDENT DEFENDS NONPAYMENT
Pines residents have contended that they withheld lot rent payments due to the disrepair of the park following the hurricanes and lack of amenities that are included in the lot fees.
“Nothing has been repaired.
The clubhouse is a mess, there is no laundry facility or showers,” said one Pines resident who asked not to be named.
“After the hurricanes we
cleaned the park up ourselves and many people paid for their own dumpsters.”
The parking lot for nearly half of the Pines residents was converted to paid parking in December.
Developer Shawn Kaleta is the manager of Pines Park Investors LLC.
“If he (Kaleta) had come here even once after the hurricanes and shown some caring and taken care of the damage here, everyone would have been paying their rent,” the resident said.
That resident, who has lived at the park for more than 30 years, is packing up their belongings from the mobile home.
“I’m not a snowbird. I’m not a tourist,” the resident said. “This was my home.”
LESLIE LAKE | SUN
DOGE: Holmes Beach mayor responds to DOGE letter
reforms to promote efficiency, maximize productivity and eliminate waste in state and local government. These efforts are focused on ensuring fiscal responsibility throughout Florida.
“In addition to assessing your municipality’s publicly available information over the coming weeks and months, the EOG DOGE Team is also assessing compliance with the financial management requirements set forth in section 218.503, Florida Statutes. This provision outlines the circumstances under which a local governmental entity is deemed to be in financial emergency or distress, triggering necessary corrective actions,” the DOGE letter says.
“To fulfill our oversight role, and in accordance with article IV, section 1(a) of the Florida Constitution, we respectfully request confirmation as to whether your municipality has encountered any instances of financial emergency or distress, including those listed in section 218.503(1), Florida Statutes, such as:
• Failure to pay short-term loans or obligations when due as a result of lack of funds.
• Failure to make debt service payments on bonds, loans or other
debt instruments when due.
• Failure to timely pay uncontested claims from creditors for more than 90 days due to lack of funds.
• Failure to transfer taxes, Social Security contributions or retirement plan contributions as required by law.
• An unreserved or total fund balance deficit in the general fund or any major operating fund that persists for two consecutive years.”
The letter says, “If your municipality has encountered any of these conditions since state fiscal year 2018-19, or anticipates potential financial distress in the next six months, please provide a written response detailing the specific circumstances, any corrective
actions taken, a point of contact and any additional information relevant to compliance with statutory financial obligations.”
In closing, the DOGE letter says, “Please submit your response no later than April 8 to ensure timely review and, if necessary, assistance from state authorities. If we do not receive a response from you within 45 days, it will be presumed that your municipality is in possible statutory violation and in need of assistance. We appreciate your cooperation in maintaining the fiscal integrity of local governmental operations.”
The letter is signed, “Sincerely, EOG DOGE Team.”
FLORIDA LEAGUE OF CITIES' RESPONSE
The following day, the Florida League of Cities (FLC) distributed an electronic letter to city officials that said, “We are reaching out to confirm that the letter your city received from the Executive Office of the Governor DOGE Team is legitimate and was sent to every municipality in Florida. The governor’s office has requested that each city respond within 45 days of receiving the letter.”
The FLC letter includes a draft
response cities can use when submitting a response if the city can answer ‘No’ to all five questions posed in the DOGE letter and has not encountered any instances of financial emergency or distress.
The FLC draft response says, “Dear Executive Office of the Governor DOGE Team, This correspondence serves as [City Name]’s response to the financial review letter received from your office. After careful evaluation, we confirm that our municipality has not encountered any conditions of financial emergency or distress, as outlined in the letter, since the state fiscal year 2018-19. If additional information is required, please do not hesitate to contact us.”
In closing, the FLC letter says, “Please note: If a response is not received within 45 days, the governor’s office will presume that your municipality may be in possible statutory violation and in need of state assistance.”
HOLMES BEACH RESPONSE
On March 20, using the FLC draft response, Holmes Beach Mayor Judy Titsworth sent the following recommended response to the DOGE team: “This correspondence serves as the city of Holmes Beach’s response to the financial review letter received from your office. After careful evaluation, we confirm that our municipality has not encountered any conditions of financial emergency or distress, as outlined in the letter, since the state fiscal year 2018-19. If additional information is required, please do not hesitate to contact us.”
OUTDOORS
Get involved in keeping Sarasota Bay healthy
pring is a great time to enjoy our coastal waters while working to keep them healthy. Two upcoming events in April provide a terrific opportunity to do this vital work and meet others who share the passion. The first of these events is the 8th Annual Reef and Beach Clean Up scheduled for April 5-6 at Sea Breeze Park in Terra Ceia. This event was previously scheduled last September but postponed due to impacts from Hurricane Helene. The event combines environmental stewardship with friendly competition.
Hosted by Suncoast Aqua Ventures, this year’s event promises to be bigger and better than ever, offering participants a chance to
Volunteers from a prior cleanup celebrate their efforts.
win cash prizes while making a tangible impact on our coastal environment. Suncoast Aqua Ventures is a community-driven organization dedicated to preserving and protecting Florida’s coastal and underwater environments through hands-on clean-up events, educational programs and advocacy.
The Reef and Beach Clean Up is not your typical beach clean-up. This unique event turns trash collection into a competitive sport, with cash prizes awarded in several categories, including Most Recyclables, Most Tires, Most Anchors and Most Shoes. Whether you’re a land lover or a certified SCUBA diver, there’s a way for
everyone to participate. Those with access to a boat can clean up underwater, ensuring our reefs are as pristine as our beaches and mangrove coastlines.
Since its inception in 2016, Suncoast Aqua Ventures has mobilized over 2,200 volunteers who have collectively removed an astonishing 182,000 pounds of trash from our beautiful coastline and underwater environments. What began as a small local effort has blossomed into a movement that has brought together community members, environmentalists and outdoor enthusiasts from all walks of life.
Cheryl Huntsinger, President of Suncoast Aqua Ventures, reflects on the origins of the event: “We started this organization after witnessing the sheer amount of human debris littering our coastlines and underwater habitats. We knew something had to be done,
Reel Time
RUSTY CHINNIS
SUBMITTED
REEL TIME: Get involved in keeping Sarasota Bay healthy
and what better way to tackle the problem than by bringing people together in a fun, competitive family-friendly environment? It’s incredible to see how much we’ve accomplished in just a few short years.”
The 8th Annual Reef and Beach Clean Up is more than just a day of trash collection—it's a celebration of community, conservation and the power of collective action. Whether you're here for the competition or to enjoy a day by the water, your participation helps protect our coastal environment for future generations. To register, visit https://suncoastaquaventures.com/event/8th-annualreef-beach-cleanup/ The second event just a week later on Saturday, April 12, is the Annual Sister
Keys Cleanup. Since 2009, Sarasota Bay Watch has been dedicated to caring for our “adopted islands” - the stunning Sister Keys. This event invites you to be a part of this important mission to protect and maintain the natural diversity of this incredible space. Whether you’re passionate about marine life, conservation, or simply love spending time on the water, your help ensures that Sister Keys remains a thriving sanctuary for generations to come. We’re looking for enthusiastic volunteers!
Whether you prefer to walk the shoreline collecting debris, captain a boat to ferry volunteers, or capture the action as a photographer, there’s a role for everyone! Boaters will transport volunteers to the cleanup site, as well as haul collected trash. Have a kayak? Bring it along
and paddle your way to the cleanup site. Your support makes a huge difference!
Continuing a tradition first started in 2009 by the Chiles Group, previous owners of Mar Vista on Longboat Key and the Beach House and Sandbar restaurants on Anna Maria Island, Beachside Hospitality will provide a complimentary boxed lunch after the cleanup. If you’ve never been to the Mar Vista, come and see what true coastal dining is all about while enjoying the new look and an unparalleled view of the Sister Keys. Come make a difference, enjoy the great outdoors, and connect with others who share a passion for conservation!
For more information, call Ronda Ryan at 941-232-2363 and register at sarasotabaywatch.org.
Learn fly fishing
CB’s Saltwater Outfitters, 1249 Stickney Point Road, Sarasota, will hold an Orvis-endorsed fly fishing school on Saturday, April 5. Instructor Capt. Rick Grassett, above, will cover basic fly casting principles, saltwater fly fishing techniques, fly selection, leader construction and wind casting. The cost for the class, which will run from 8 a.m. to approximately noon, is $225 per person and includes the use of fly tackle and a workbook. Optional instructional guided fly fishing trips are also available for an additional fee. Contact CB’s Saltwater Outfitters at 941-349-4400 or info@cbsoutfitters.com to make reservations.
REAL ESTATE
Balance of power is something we usually talk about as it relates to international positioning between powerful nations. Now the phrase is lending itself to the real estate market and the buyers are finally getting the upper hand.
Homebuyers are benefiting from the fading disappearance of bidding wars. Sellers are willing to lower prices and offer incentives. Increased home listings are working to the advantage of buyers with less competition and more negotiating room. And most important of all, sellers are becoming more flexible, accepting offers below the asking price especially for properties that need repairs - like on Anna Maria Island - or properties that are in less desirable areas. However, all real estate markets are not equal. The National Association of Realtors indicates that homeowners with ultra-low mortgage rates have been reluctant to sell, but that is starting to
It’s the buyers turn Castles in the Sand
compared with 42% in Illinois and 17% in New York. As we know, many of our out-of-state residents come from Illinois and New York.
loosen up as more people decide they can’t keep putting off a move and wait for rates to take a nosedive. The rates are starting to trend under 7% but not enough yet to move the needle and change the real estate market. Housing inventories are also rising in certain states where properties look overvalued, so buyers are backing off. Because of the migration to the Sunbelt states during the pandemic, property prices in some southern states rose faster than in other parts of the country. In Florida, for instance, the value of the median home increased 64% over the past five years according to Redfin,
The huge increase in value that Florida has enjoyed is slowing down as migration to Florida has slowed. The state is importing fewer new high wage earners to support the home prices and the insurance costs, putting affordability of home ownership out of balance for many buyers. Nevertheless, Florida is still a popular state and very tax friendly compared to northern states, with insurance costs starting to trend downward.
February sales statistics for Manatee County are out, published by the Realtor Association of Sarasota and Manatee: Single-family homes closed 22.1% more properties since February of last year. The median sale price was $480,000, down 8.6%, and the average sale price was $662,504, down 10%. Median time to contract was 49 days compared to 35
days last year, and the month’s supply of available properties was 4.6 months compared to 3.9 months last year.
Condos closed 7% fewer properties this February compared to last. The median price was $335,990, down 6.1% and the average was $408,238 down 7.5%.
Median days to contract was 60 days compared to 47 days last year and the month’s supply of available properties was 8 months compared to 5.6 last year.
The wrap-up on these numbers indicate that sellers are no longer in a competitive market and need to adjust their expectations. Median sale prices are down, it’s taking longer to sell and new listings are going up across all categories.
Homebuyers have the most leverage over sellers in years. In our region, last year’s storms have increased that leverage. Eventually the market will catch up to the number of properties available, so pay attention buyers, this is your window.
LOUISE BOLGER
Huibers, McSparren take first, second at KRC
MARCH 17 - STABLEFORD
First Place - Bob Paine, +5
Second Place - Rob Ellis, Rod Hammonds and Ken Nagengast, +2
Third Place - Jim Hitchen, Ron Huibers and Dom Livedoti, +1
MARCH 18 - LOW NET SCORE
First Place - Lisa Edmonds, 28
Second Place - Tamara Hogan, 30
Third Place - Jan Turner, 31
Fourth Place - Helen Pollock, 32
MARCH 20 - SCRAMBLE, NO PUTTERS
First Place - Jim Bailey, Brian Comers and Ron Huibers, 28, 4 under par
Fernandes, Allen win Pepka tournament
The 13th Annual Ron Pepka Memorial Horseshoe Tournament was held on March 22 in honor of Pepka, a long time pitcher and lead man for Anna Maria Horseshoes. First place went to Gersey Fernandes and Lisa Allen winning the final 21-17 over Dom Livedoti and John Poccynek, who had to settle for second, and third place went to Tom Farrington and Peggy Lothschutz. On March 19, Farrington and Ron Gagnon posted the only 3-0 record and earned the day's bragging rights.
ANNA MARIA HORSESHOES | SUBMITTED
The Key Royale Club 2025 Ladies Annual Handicap Match Play Tournament concluded on March 12 after four weeks of match-play contests. Reaching the finals were Nina McSparren, left, and Jenny Huibers, who prevailed as champion, winning the match 5 up with four holes to play.
Center hosts flag football, soccer championships
Second Place - David Derosiers, Harvey Stovers, Nub Turner and Tom Young, 30, 2 under par
THE CENTER | SUBMITTED
From left, Corey Banks, Frankie Romo, Jasmine Muldoon, Tim Holly, Chase Richardson, Cameron Reinke and Kevin Roman are flag football champions at The Center of Anna Maria Island.
THE CENTER | SUBMITTED
From left, James Roadman, Helio Gomez, Kevin Roman, Tyler Brewer and Kari Stephens are indoor soccer champions at The Center of Anna Maria Island.
KRC | SUBMITTED
DRIFT-IN: Owners granted temporary use permit to reopen
FROM PAGE 15
Palmer said he has received all of the proper permits from Williams and all that remains is inspections.
“As long as the inspections are approved, he’ll be good to go,” Palmer said.
Prior to the commission vote on the temporary use permit, Lincoln reminded the com missioners that they would be approving it without the zoning report.
“The zoning report is going to be critical to the major development plan,”” Lincoln said. “If when you hear the application for the major development plan it is possible there could be zoning criteria that the tiki doesn’t meet such that it could only be improved by a Planned Development approval and that is one potential scenario.”
The tiki hut project had been approved by former city Building Official Darin Cushing, but was placed on hold when
City Attorney Ricinda Perry said at a Jan. 16 commission meeting that the permit approval should not have been issued based on factors which included the city-owned easements on the property as well as the size of the new tiki structure. She said the project should be classified as a major development and must undergo the hearing process.
The Bradenton Beach Planning and Zoning board
will consider the major development application on Wednesday, April 2 and the city commission will meet on Tuesday, April 8 to consider the major development application and easement modification.
Commissioner Jan Vosburgh said she is in favor of reopening the Drift-In.
“The rules and the regulations they have to follow seem to be very easily overcome,” she said.
Commissioner Ralph Cole said he would like to see the Drift-In open up as soon as possible.
“I am excited that the DriftIn is going to be back bigger and better,” Commissioner Deborah Scaccianoce said.
Cole made the motion and it was seconded by Vosburgh.
The motion passed unanimously and was followed by applause from the Drift-In employees and supporters who attended the hearing.
JOE HENDRICKS | SUN
Attorney Robert Lincoln represented the city during the March 20 public hearing.
HERITAGE DAY: Celebrates historical museum’s recovery
Longtime festival participant Donna Stansbury used her old-fashioned spinning wheel to once again demonstrate how yarn is spun from wool. Holmes Beach resident Nancy Deal and Assistant Librarian June Battersby represented the Friends of the Island Library and local musician Mike Sales provided the live music.
Carrying on a Heritage Day fundraising tradition, Historical Society members Mary Lange, Renée Goodheart and Barbara Murphy sold strawberry shortcake for $5 a serving. Detwiler’s Farm Market donated four flats of fresh strawberries and Pine Avenue-based Hometown Desserts provided the gourmet shortcake. The trio also sold 18 loaves of Settlers Bread baked at home by volunteers using a traditional recipe. The Anna Maria Island Coffee Shack donated the coffee sold for $1 a cup and the fundraising activities
also included raffles and a silent auction.
MAYORS JAILED
At noon, the Anna Maria Island Privateers captured and shackled Anna Maria Mayor Mark Short, Holmes Beach Mayor Judy Titsworth and Bradenton Beach Mayor John Chappie and transported them
to the “Old City Jail” on the museum grounds where they were held captive until they raised enough ransom to secure their release. The phone calls received from family members and friends posting bail included a call from Titsworth’s mother.
“It takes three mayors to run this Island,” Titsworth proclaimed as festival attendees
contributed to the mayors’ fundraising efforts that collectively raised $1,425 for the Historical Society.
Historical Society member and museum docent Judy Hildman chaired this year’s festival and she addressed the crowd while the mayors awaited their release.
“Heritage Day is an annual event. It is our gift to the community that supports us and is so generous to us. Our museum was devastated and when you walk into that museum you’ll see what we did with the help of the community,” Hildman said.
“I want to thank the mayors for being such good sports. It’s an honor to have you in our jail. I also want to thank the Privateers, the volunteers and our great board of directors that led us from devastation to where we are today,” she added.
After being released from captivity, Chappie said, “This is part of the tradition of the Island. This is ‘old Florida’ and the community getting together to
celebrate our heritage.”
“That’s the second year in a row I had to be locked up in that un-air-conditioned jail, but it was for a great cause,” Titsworth said.
“A big shout out to the mayors of the other Island cities for participating in this fundraiser and to the community that turned out for this. It’s another example of the great things that happen on this Island. We’re still recovering but we’re certainly on the right path,” Short said.
Offering free admission, the museum officially reopened on March 25 and is open TuesdaySaturday from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. through the end of March. Beginning April 1, the museum will be open from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. and those hours will remain in effect through the summer and fall seasons. An announcement is expected soon regarding the weekly Settlers Bread sales that help fund the Historical Society’s annual scholarship awards.
JOE HENDRICKS | SUN
From left inside the jail, the AMI Privateers captured Bradenton Beach Mayor John Chappie, Holmes Beach Mayor Judy Titsworth and Anna Maria Mayor Mark Short.
FUN IN THE SUN
CLASSIFIEDS
ANNOUNCEMENTS
THRIVE BEACH YOGA: All Levels Welcome! 100 Pine Ave on AMI. 8:30am every Saturday & Sunday, Wednesdays (Oct-May). $15 PreRegistration required at ThriveYogaFit.com
BRIDGE GAMES AT THE CENTER on Magnolia Ave., Fridays, 11:30 AM to 2:30 PM on a first come, first serve basis. Call 314 324 5921 for additional details.
BOATS
BOAT ARE SELLING
VERY WELL. Season is here. Northerners are shopping now. Great Timing! We Also Buy Boats. Please visit- IslandBoatSales.net- 942228-3489Boatsalesflorida @Gmail.com
27' COM-PAC MK/II
SAILBOAT - 1989 in v/ good condition, no storm damage, ready to sail. New bottom paint and Genoa, 2yr old autopilot, chart plotter, 20A smart charger, enclosed head, propane stove w/oven, 6'1'" headroom, more info online. $21,500. 727-4794919
COMMERCIAL SALES, RENT & LEASE
HAVE YOU BEEN thinking of selling? We NEED properties to List for SALE!!! Duplexes, multi family, small resorts? Call BIG Alan Galletto of Island Real Estate to get it SOLD 941-232-2216
CLEANING SERVICE
TOTAL HOME SERVICES CLEANING: Residential, Commercial, Rentals, VRBO. Professional and Reliable. Call 941-756-4570 or 941-565-3931
EMPLOYMENT
SHAMPOO ASSISTANT
P/T for busy island salon, retired professionals welcome. 941-387-9897 Irina
EXPERIENCED NAIL TECHNICIAN and hair stylist, call for appointment. A Hair Day 941-195-5227
NOW HIRING: THE WHITE EGRET We are seeking someone creative to fill a part time position at our boutiques! Flexible days but weekend availability required. We are also looking for a handyman on an as needed basis. Please inquire in person or call 941-778-3782
HOME IMPROVEMENTS
RENOVATION SPECALIST
ALL carpentry repairs, Wash Family Construction, locally owned and operated CBC 1258250 Call 941-725-0073.
KERN & GILDER CONSTRUCTION, INC New Homes & Remodel. Design/Build. Since 1968. License # CBC 1261150. Call the Office. 941-7781115. NEW OFFICE ADDRESS: 1878 59th Street W Bradenton, FL 34209
GET’R DONE DRYWALL, INC Specializing in Remodels & Repairs. Island Resident for 20+ years. Call Neil. Cell 941-9621194
JSAN CORPORATION
Renovations Construction & Handyman Services 941-243-0995 Lic# CRC1332505 jsancorporation@gmail. com Flooring, Drywall, Painting, Repairs, Kitchen and Bathrooms, Trim & Doors. Free Estimates. Credit Cards Accepted.
GORILLA DRYWALL REPAIR, LLC. 15+ years of experience. Free Estimates. Let’s solve your Drywall problems together. Call 941-286-0607.
BMF INTERIORS Home repairs and more, No job too small. Please call 786318-8585
CCS DRYWALL REPAIRS
We are local. Family owned & operated since 1991. Free Estimates. Licensed/Insured/Bonded. License # SCC131149803 Call 941-713-6531.
HURRICANE DAMAGE?
I’m an Island resident. Pressure washing, tree work, fence repair, mailbox replacement. Also see ads under “Landscaping & painting. Bill Witaszek 941-307-9315
FROM HOME TO BUSINESSES, we build it all. You’re Reliable General Contractor for new construction, water damage, restoration 941-894-7549 or email at@constructionatr.com
TANGERINE GROUP INC British Building standards, AMI based, commercial/ residential General Contractor and Real Estate, 941-350-9940
LANDSCAPING & LAWN CARE
R. GAROFALO’S Interlocking brick pavers, driveways, patios, pool decks. Free estimates. Licensed & Insured. Call Rafael 941-778-4823 or Veronik 941-526-7941
ISLAND RESIDENT. TREE/ BUSH Trimming, removal. Sweeping, blowing, and weeding. Weekly, bi-monthly or monthly schedule. Pressure washing. Call Bill Witaszek 941307-9315
SHELL DELIVERED AND spread. Hauling all kinds of gravel, mulch, top soil with free estimates. Call Larry at 941795-7775, "shell phone" 941-720-0770
SHELL DRIVEWAYS & LANDSCAPE. Specializing in Old Florida Seashell and Lime rock driveways and scapes. Also River Rock, Sand, Mulch, & Soil. Call Shark Mark 941-301-6067
DEVINE DESIGN LANDSCAPE - Professional Landscape and Design Services for your entire property. Irrigation services, Tree Removal and trimming, Sod, Mulch, Fencing, Pavers and Landscape Lighting. Commercial and Residential. Call 941-4656015 DevineDesign7@ yahoo.com
MOVING & STORAGE
MARTIN’S MOVING YOUR Island movers! Offering dependable, competitive rates. No hidden costs. 941-8095777.
PAINTING & WALLCOVERING
PAINT! PAINT! AND MORE 28 years of experienced interior/exterior custom painting. Pressure cleaning, drywall repairs and texture finishes. Many Island references. Please call Neil for free estimates. 941-812-0507
“WIZARD OF WALLS” Established 1980 Prompt quality service. Wallpaper installation/ removal. Mary Bell Winegarden 941-794-0455
DONALD PERKINS ABRACADABRA PAINTING LLC fully insured. 30 years experience. Many Island references. Call 941-705-7096
PROFESSIONAL PAINTING SERVICES. Prompt & Reliable. Island Resident. Quality Workmanship. Interior/Exterior. Minor repairs & carpentry. Free estimates. Bill Witaszek 941-307-9315
PEST CONTROL
ANNA MARIA PEST CONTROL Call 941-7781630
POOL SERVICES
FOUR SEASONS POOL SERVICE AND CHEMICAL SERVICES. Certified Pool Operator. 18 + Years Experience. Residential/commercial. Chemical Service Licensed & Insured. Call Dennis Clark 941-7375657
COLE'S TROPICAL POOL SERVICE Call Cole Bowers for all your pool maintenance needs! Affordable and Dependable!! 941-7131893
PRESSURE WASHING & WINDOWS
TOTAL HOME SERVICES CLEANING: Residential, Commercial, Construction, Vacation, VRBO Rentals . Also available Pressure Washing, Roof Cleaning, Paver Sealing and Windows. Call 941-5653931.
REAL ESTATE HOMES & CONDOS FOR SALE
Have you been thinking of selling? We NEED properties to List for SALE!!! GULF FRONT, CANAL FRONT, BAY FRONT CONDOS or HOMES ASK for BIG Alan Galletto of Island Real Estate to get it SOLD 941-232-2216
LOOKING FOR A highly motivated real estate broker to buy or sell your next home? Darcie Duncan, Broker Duncan Real Estate a lifelong island resident bringing success to her customers for 30 years. Proven track record brings you results! 941-725-1589
HOLMES BEACH Partial Gulf View & Intracoastal views 5BR/4BA Custom built home private pool, elevator, all tile flooring. Best Price $2,600,000. Sharon Hightower RE/ MAX Alliance Group 941-330-5054.
GATED COMMUNITY ESTUARY 3BR/3.5BA, pool, 12 ft ceilings, open floor plan, Gorgeous kitchen, 2019 built all tile floors a must see Sharon Hightower RE/MAX Alliance Group 941-330-5054
NEW LISTING PERICO ISLAND single family home 3BA/2BA water views, partially furnished, sunroom, Best Buy $699,900 No flood ins required! Sharon Hightower Remax alliance group 941-3305054.
ESTURARY A GATED COMMUNITY Neal built 3BA/2BA with salt water pool built in hot tub, wine fridge, gas cook top, plantation blinds, near Robinson Preserve 2018 built.$1,275,000. Sharon Hightower Remax Alliance Group 941-330-5054
GLENN LAKES 3BR/2BA Inground pool, full lake views, new kitchen, new floors, fresh paint, move in ready $595,000. Sharon Hightower Remax Alliance Group 941-330-5054
PARK MODEL TRAILER priced to sell! 1994 Hy-line 34 ft long 2 bump outs, LR & BDRM 8x10 shed Turn key, furnished and ready to move in. Located in Sarasota Bay RV Park. This community is a 55+ park designed for snowbirds. Max stay is 6 mo. No sub leasing of any kind. Fun park with tons of activities and super social. Check out sarabayrvpark. com for more information on this community. Lot fees are paid to July 1st with 3 plus month of unused time for you to move in and enjoy. This is included in the price. $34,900 Call Sharon for more information, 269330-1884
REAL ESTATE HOMES & CONDOS FOR SALE
8144 37th AVE CIR WEST
$1,299.000 Bike to beach. 4 bedrooms plus Den. Newer designer Pool home 3900 sqf. Christine RE/MAX 314-440-7574
202 75th, ANNA MARIA
$2,500,000 4 bedrooms. Private elevator-2000 SQF Home with garage, Pool, GREAT INCOME PROPERTY! Christine RE/MAX 314-440-7574
5708 HOLMES BLVD, ANNA MARIA, $2,400,000 -Like New 4 bedroom home, garage, pool, Great income -in rental program. Christine Re/Max 314-440-7574
236 S HARBOR ANNA MARIA $1,995,000 Big almost 8000 sqf Big View! Zoned weekly rental-Room for BIG dock. Christine RE/ MAX 314-440-7574
DESIGNER VILLA $850,000 3BR/2BA 2 car garage -across from beach. Christine /Remax 314-440-7574 BEST DEAL IN ANNA MARIA
GREAT VIEW Perico Bay Club 2BR/2BA, 1st Floor Direct Bay View Garage, New Air, Water Heater, Tile Roof Renovated, like new Everywhere: Flooring, Cabinets, Countertops, Inside And Outside New Paint 1153 Edgewater Circle VERY DESIRABLE / GREAT VALUE Guard Gated Community—Minutes to Beach 352-339-3478 Lew $495,000 OPEN HOUSE: SUNDAYS 1-4
RENTALS: ANNUAL
ANNUAL RENTAL minutes to beaches 2BR/2BA Condo. Water/cable included, pool, washer/dryer. $1795/mo First Month Free. Call 941-713-6743
ANNUAL RENTAL HOLMES BEACH 2BR/2BA New appliances W/D in unit. Ground level, off street parking, pet friendly. First mo. + security. $2100/mo. Call 941-565-8409
HOLMES BEACH 209 83rd St.: 1BR/1BA efficiency apartment. Small but cute! $1700/mo. 2BR/2BA private pool, large screened lanai! $3500/mo. Water, trash, lawn care included. Also pool care. Annual, unfurnished. 1 Year lease. 1st, last & security. Call 941-809-2488
FULLY FURNISHED
4BR/3BA Recently Remodeled Bayfront view and 7 min walk to beach Condo in Holmes Beach. Includes Heated pool, tennis court, fishing pier, cable, WiFi, water and trash. Electric in your name. One year lease $5000 month. Call Nedra :352-875-6094
FULLY FURNISHED Nice
home 6 min walk to beach on 63rd St. 3BR/3.5BA with private heated pool, office, elevator in Holmes Beach.One year lease available. Tenant must pay all utilities. $5000 per month plus deposit. Call Nedra 352-875-6094.
BRADENTON BEACH two 2BR/1BA apartments available to rent. $2500/ mo. First, last and $1000 security deposit. Renovated/updated. No pets. Adults only. Call 941-7054737
BEAUTIFUL PERICO BAY Club Condo! 2BR/2BA, Second Floor Unit $4750/ mo seasonally, $2500/mo annually +Security Deposit Please call 941-7781979 for more details.
AVAILABLE NOW! ANNUAL RENTAL Beautiful sunny renovated condo 2BR/2BA - 1 floor Perico Bay Club Gym, pool, hot tub, tennis, parking $2500/month Call 612802-8357
RENTALS: SEASONAL & VACATION
ANNA MARIA ISLAND
CONDOS Large pool, beach access, free WiFi, 1&2 Bedroom $900 to $1200 per week redekercondosonami.com Tim 941-704-7525
FULLY FURNISHED
2BR/2BA Condo in Holmes Beach. Includes all utilities, cable, internet, and trash. Seasonal, monthly or 6-month lease available March 1, 2025. Call Jack at 312-835-2323
TIFFANY PLACE Gulf Front Condo for Rent Incredible views from living room and master bedroom. 2BR/2BA Green Real Estate Call 941-778-0455
SEASONAL RENTAL in PALMA SOLA. 3BR/2BA weekly or monthly rates. Contact Barb Grace 941201-2190
BEAUTIFUL BRIGHT QUIET renovated condo 2BR/2BA seasonal $4750/ month. On pond Perico Bay Club: pool, tennis, pickleball, gym, parking Min from AMI beaches Call 952818-4685
AVAILABLE NOW! SEASONAL RENTAL Beautiful bright renovated condo 2BR/2BA - 1 floor Perico Bay Club - gym, tennis, hot tub, pool, parking $4700/ month Call 612802-8357
TRANSPORTATION
ANYTIME TRANSPORTATION to all Airports, Casino, etc. Tampa/St. Pete $85. Sarasota $40. Pets welcome. Very dependable. Reasonable rates. Contact Jeanne. 941-7795095
AIRPORT SHUTTLE Quality Transportation: 10 Years by Lewber 352339-3478.
