Anna Maria Island Sun April 17, 2024

Locals join hands to fight big government

A crowd came out to Manatee Beach on April 13 to peacefully protest a state-led initiative to consolidate or eliminate the Island cities.

BY KRISTIN SWAIN SUN STAFF WRITER | kswain@amisun.com

HOLMES BEACH – A grassroots movement to bring awareness to Florida legisla-

tors’ efforts to consolidate or eliminate the three Anna Maria Island cities drew about 300 people to its first event, a peaceful protest on the sand.

The crowd gathered just north of Manatee Beach on April 13 for a Hands Across the Sand event held by Save Florida Home Rule, a group of residents, vacationers and property owners who want to stop the overreach of state

government. Members of the group are vocally against the consolidation or elimination of the three Island cities as well as the construction of a parking garage at Manatee Beach.

Joining hands, the group shouted, “Protect paradise” and “Keep your hands off our Island cities” as messages to Manatee County and Florida state lawmakers to stop governmental overreach and

allow local municipalities to govern their own cities.

The parking garage bill passed the Legislature without protest in 2023. The bill allows for Manatee County commissioners to construct a garage at the beach property against city of Holmes Beach land development regulations and zoning codes. The garage bill was

State seeks contempt ruling in net camp case

FDEP is asking the court to find Raymond Guthrie in civil contempt and to impose sanctions that could include jail time for non-compliance with a 2019 judgment mandating the removal of the net camp.

BY LESLIE LAKE SUN CORRESPONDENT | llake@amisun.com

CORTEZ – The Florida Department of Environmental Protection (FDEP) is continuing to tenaciously pursue the enforcement of a 2019 judgment against Raymond “Junior” Guthrie to remove his net camp off the coast of Cortez in Sarasota Bay.

According to the judgment, the state of Florida owns the submerged land under the net camp.

In a March 28 filing in the 12th

Judicial Circuit Court, FDEP Assistant General Counsel Cameron Polomski asked the court to find Guthrie in civil contempt of the court order and impose sanctions that could include incarceration.

Guthrie had a deadline of March 5 to either remove the structure or show cause why the final judgment ordering its removal should not be enforced. According to court records, he has not done so.

Polomski asked the court in his motion to “impose appropriate sanctions including, but not limited to the incarceration in the county jail for no more than six months or until defendant purges the contempt by completing the removal of the structure or any other remedy this court deems just and appropriate.”

Sea turtle nesting season begins

Turtle Watch volunteers are beginning patrols and the Suzi L. Fox Adopt-a-Nest program is in place.

BY LESLIE LAKE SUN CORRESPONDENT | llake@amisun.com

ANNA MARIA ISLAND – The traditional May 1 start of the sea turtle nesting season is now April 15, according to Anna Maria Island Turtle Watch and Shorebird Monitoring, whose volunteers began monitoring the beaches this week for signs of nesting.

Residents and beachgoers can help improve the chances of successful turtle nesting and hatching this season by turning off lights visible from the beach and closing blinds or drapes from sundown to sunrise. Lights confuse nesting sea turtles and may cause them to go back to sea and drop their eggs in the water,

where they won’t hatch. Light can also attract hatchlings away from the water.

Don’t use flashlights, lanterns or camera flashes on the beach at night; they can disorient turtles.

Remove all beach chairs and other objects from the sand from sundown to sunrise; they can deter sea turtles from nesting, entrap them and disorient hatchlings.

Fill in the holes you dig in the sand before leaving the beach. They can trap nesting and hatching sea turtles, which cannot live long out of the water. You might also accidentally dig into an unmarked nest. To report large holes or other turtle obstacles, call:

• City of Anna Maria code enforcement - 941-708-6130, ext. 111;

• City of Bradenton Beach code enforcement - 941-778-1005, ext. 227;

• City of Holmes Beach code enforcement - 941-778-0331, ext. 260.

KRISTIN SWAIN | SUN A crowd lined the sand at Manatee Beach for a Hands Across the Sand event peacefully protesting a measure being considered by state legislators to consolidate or eliminate the three Anna Maria Island cities.

City to grandfather existing CBD, hemp sales

The specific grandfathering exception rules and regulations will be set forth in a new city resolution.

BY JOE HENDRICKS SUN CORRESPONDENT | jhendricks@amisun.com

ANNA MARIA – Businesses in the city that currently sell CBD and hemp products will be allowed to continue doing so with a soon-to-be-adopted grandfathering exception.

A city ordinance adopted in 2015 to prohibit medical marijuana dispensaries also prohibits the sale of any product made from the cannabis plant, including CBD and hemp products – even though Florida law allows CBD and hemp sales.

Anna Maria leaders want to allow limited CBD and hemp sales without allowing full-blown CBD stores like those legally operated in Holmes Beach and many other Florida cities.

On April 11, City Attorney Becky Vose presented newly-proposed Ordinance 24293, which contains the following language: “Businesses with a business location in the city of Anna Maria – not to include mobile sales – that, as of April 1, 2024, regularly

sold product that would otherwise have been prohibited shall be eligible to receive grandfather status to continue such sales, but not to increase the volume of such sales, in accordance with procedures outlined in a resolution to be adopted by the city commission.”

To receive grandfathered status, businesses that currently sell CBD and/or hemp products will have to register those business activities with the city.

The city’s efforts to revise its CBD and hemp prohibitions began in February after Holmes Beach-based CBD vendor Mel Wendell was told she couldn’t participate in an arts and crafts fair taking place in Anna Maria.

The North Shore Café owners then received a notice of violation for selling food and drink products made with a legal hemp powder containing trace amounts of THC. The Cool Beans AMI coffee shop owners received a notice of violation for selling CBD products. Those two businesses will be eligible for city commission-approved grandfathering exemptions.

When offering public input during the April 11 meeting, AMI Beach & Dog Supply owner Janalee Gallagher informed city officials that canine-grade CBD products are currently sold at her Anna Maria business.

Existing businesses that don’t currently sell CBD and hemp products could also apply for a commission-approved grandfathering exception to allow such sales, as could new businesses, according to city officials.

The proposed ordinance has not been formally adopted yet and the accompanying city resolution that establishes the specific grandfathering rules and requirements is expected to be presented on Thursday, April 25.

The commission previously rejected a proposed ordinance that would have limited CBD and hemp offerings to no more than 10%

of a retail establishment’s total inventory. The commission felt the 10% threshold would be nearly impossible to enforce and would require an audit of the retailer’s entire inventory.

STATE LEGISLATION

Anna Maria’s efforts to amend its CBD regulations occur at a time when stricter CBD regulations proposed by the Florida Legislature await transmittal to Gov. Ron DeSantis to veto, sign into new state law or allow to become state law without his signature.

On April 9, Vose sent the mayor and commissioners a copy of SB 1698 and a brief summary of the proposed state law that said: “It basically prohibits the sale of hempbased products that create euphoric effects on people by putting caps on the amount of THC concentration in hemp-based products that can be sold. The publicity surrounding the bill seems to indicate that it will prohibit a large percentage of the products sold in CBD stores.”

The ordinance Vose presented on April 11 says, “Nothing in this ordinance shall be construed to allow the sale of any product which is otherwise prohibited by Florida law.”

On April 11, Vose also noted legalizing recreational marijuana statewide will be on the general election ballot this fall.

Gallagher was told she would also be eligible for the grandfathering exception.

JOE HENDRICKS | SUN

AMI Beach & Dog Supply owner Janalee Gallagher said canine grade CBD is sold at her store.

Scan this code with your smartphone to go there.

IN BRIEF

JOE HENDRICKS | SUN Anna Maria Unit relocates

The Anna Maria Unit of the Manatee County Sheriff’s Office is now in the city annex building at 307 Pine Ave. The building department, formerly at that location and led by Dean Jones, has returned to the city hall building at 10005 Gulf Drive.

Commission to discuss board appointments

Bradenton Beach commissioners will discuss the appointments of board members to liaison positions at the Thursday, April 18 commission meeting at noon. Also on the agenda is a discussion of obtaining Florida Records Management Association membership for Commissioner Deborah Scaccianoce and the Police Officer of the Year presentation. The meeting will be held at the Katie Pierola Commission Chambers, 107 Gulf Drive N.

Pat Copeland Scholarships to be announced

The Anna Maria Island Chamber of Commerce’s next Business Card Exchange will be held on Thursday, April 25 at The Anna Maria Island Historical Society, 402 Pine Ave. in Anna Maria from 5-7 p.m. Bring business cards and mingle with Island business owners and managers at this networking event. The exchange will also feature the presentation of the annual Pat Copeland Scholarship Awards by the Historical Society. Space is limited, so RSVP to ingrid@amichamber. org or call 941-778-1541. Beverages and light bites will be served. The fee is $5 for chamber members and $10 for prospective members.

Clarification

On April 11, Anna Maria Commissioner Gary McMullen clarified the position he took on March 28 regarding the potential extension of the multi-use path along Gulf Drive. McMullen said he supports Mayor Dan Murphy’s efforts to study and potentially extend the multi-use path even though McMullen disagrees that no street-side parking spaces can be eliminated as part of those efforts.

Responses filed in negligence suit

The two defendants have responded to a lawsuit filed by one of the victims in a 2023 Holmes Beach accident that killed a local woman.

BY JASON SCHAFFER SUN CORRESPONDENT | jschaffer@amisun.com

HOLMES BEACH - The two defendants in a civil suit filed by the daughter of Miriam Trotter, 86, of Bradenton, who was killed in a traffic accident on May 12, 2023, have filed responses to the suit in Manatee County’s 12th Judicial Circuit Court.

Deborah Trotter, 66, of Maryland, was crossing the street with her mother, Miriam, shortly after the reopening of the Holmes Beach intersection of Marina Drive and Gulf Drive, according to the suit. The two were crossing the street in the crosswalk when a 2018 GMC truck driven by Michael Ritchie, 43, of Bradenton, made a left turn on a green light and did not see the women crossing, resulting in both being hit by the truck.

According to a Holmes Beach

police report, Ritchie was traveling south on Marina Drive turning left on Gulf Drive. The truck was stopped in the turn lane to turn onto Gulf Drive. The light turned green and Ritchie began to make the left turn onto Gulf Drive. The Trotters were crossing in the marked crosswalk, northbound over Gulf Drive, when they were struck by the truck. Both pedestrians were transported to HCA Florida Blake Hospital with injuries. Deborah was released from the hospital the same day, but Miriam suffered critical

injuries during the crash and died on May 17.

HBPD Chief Bill Tokajer said Ritchie was cited for failing to yield the right-of-way to a pedestrian at an intersection with a traffic control device, but was not charged with a criminal offense since their investigation determined he was not under the influence of drugs or alcohol and did not leave the scene. Ritchie was found guilty on Aug. 9, 2023, and fined $166.

Satcher named supervisor of elections

Satcher’s recent appointment creates a vacancy on the Manatee County Commission.

BY JOE HENDRICKS SUN CORRESPONDENT | jhendricks@amisun.com

MANATEE COUNTY – On April 12, Gov. Ron DeSantis appointed Manatee County Commissioner James Satcher to serve the remaining months of the current term in office vacated by retired Supervisor of Elections Mike Bennett.

Bennett’s retirement took effect March 1 and longtime Deputy Supervisor of Elections Scott Farrington had been overseeing the daily operations of the elections’ office. When appointing Satcher, DeSantis overlooked Farrington, whom Bennett recommended as his successor.

The four-year term Bennett vacated expires after the fall

2024 elections. Prior to DeSantis’ announcement, Farrington had filed to run in the fall elections seeking election to serve a full term in that office.

Now that Satcher has been appointed to serve the remainder of Bennett’s current term, Satcher is expected to seek election to a full term as super -

visor. Satcher, a minister, has no previous experience working as an employee of an elections

Elected in 2020, Satcher, a Republican, was serving the fourth and final year of his first term in office as a Manatee County commissioner. He now forfeits the remainder of that commission term to serve as supervisor of elections.

The press release issued by DeSantis’ office on Friday does not state when Satcher would forfeit his commission seat and assume the role of supervisor. DeSantis is expected to appoint someone to fill Satcher’s vacant county commission seat. Satcher previously filed to run for reelection to the District 1 county commission seat, joined by non-party-affiliated challenger Jennifer Hamey and Republican primary challenger Carol Felt.

HBPD | SUBMITTED A large truck struck two female pedestrians, killing one, on May 12, 2023, at the intersection of Marina and Gulf drives in Holmes Beach.

JOE HENDRICKS | SUN

James Satcher succeeds former Supervisor of Elections Mike Bennett.

Commission receives proposed charter amendments

One of the proposed amendments pertains to building height restrictions.

BY JOE HENDRICKS SUN CORRESPONDENT | jhendricks@amisun.com

ANNA MARIA – Six potential charter amendments and an additional recommendation proposed by the charter review committee have been presented for city commission consideration.

Charter Review Committee Chair

Chris Arendt presented the proposed amendments to the city commission on April 11.

The commission can accept, reject or modify any or all of the committee’s proposed charter amendments and future commission discussion and decision-making is still needed.

Any charter amendments supported by the commission will be placed before the city’s registered voters on the fall ballot. The commission can also propose additional amendments of its own to place on the ballot.

PROPOSED AMENDMENTS

The first proposed amendment is a response to state legislators who may seek the future consolidation or elimination of the three Anna Maria Island cities.

The committee proposes inserting into the charter a statement that adds a new reference to home rule while echoing a statement already included in the city’s comprehensive plan: “The city of Anna Maria will ensure that the single-family detached residential character and home rule of the city is maintained and protected while supporting commercial uses within the

commercial and ROR land use categories, while maximizing the enjoyment of natural and man-made resources by the citizens and minimizing the threat to health, safety and welfare posed by hazards, nuisances, incompatible land uses and environmental degradation.”

Anna Maria’s comp plan and building codes restrict building heights to three stories, but the comp plan and the building code could be amended by a future commission.

A building height-related charter amendment would ensure that any future changes to the height limit restrictions would require the majority

support of Anna Maria’s voters – as long as Anna Maria remains an independent municipality.

The committee proposes charter language similar to this: “Aside from approved exemptions, no building or part thereof shall exceed a height of 37 feet as measured from the crown of the road at the front center of the property to the highest point of any portion of the building.”

The charter currently requires a city ordinance supported by the commission majority to sell or lease a city property. The committee proposes an amendment that would require the unanimous support of all sitting commissioners.

Additional proposed amendments pertain to residency requirements for elected officials after taking office, which commission members can schedule a special commission meeting and which city employees are considered officers of the city.

The committee also recommends eliminating all gender-specific pronouns and replacing them with

JOE HENDRICKS | SUN

Left, Charter Review Committee Chair Chris Arendt presented the committee’s recommended charter amendments. Right, Commissioner Charlie Salem suggested future discussion on requiring appointed commissioners to face election to retain their appointed seat.

OPINION

EDITORIAL

Consolidation, stall tactics and parking garages, oh my

Anna Maria Island city mayors are facing a threat that will have irreversible consequences for everyone on the Island. But while all three mayors are stating they’re against the proposed consolidation/elimination of the cities, what actions are they taking to prevent it? Talking to state leaders is necessary, but the continued existence of the very real threat of the dissolution of the three Island cities proves that state leaders are ignoring what their constituents want in the face of money and the potential for even more development.

Each of the three cities has a gift in the form of a grassroots campaign, Hands Across the Sand, led by residents and property owners, and it’s one that they’re taking for granted. The cities’ strength lies in their residents and property owners. Combining the force of the government with the voices of the people is a strong weapon - one that’s not being used.

For example, Holmes Beach commissioners had set up a town meeting for the public to discuss consolidation. It was canceled to give state legislators an entire month to make time for a meeting after months of their silence. State officials used this same stall tactic during conversations with Holmes Beach about a paid parking garage at Manatee Beach. The parking garage bill slid through the state without a hiccup despite having zero Holmes Beach support, but some county commissioners who live east of I-75 very vocally supported it. The county stands to benefit through the new source of revenue. Leaders in Holmes Beach, where the garage would be built, are the lone holdouts, refusing to allow paid parking. Manatee County Commissioner Kevin Van Ostenbridge’s platform of making the beach accessible for everyone is undermined by charging for parking, which opens the beaches only to those who can afford it.

Consolidation, which could remove height restrictions on the Island, doesn’t have to be approved by residents, property owners or voters. The state does not need anyone’s permission to dissolve the cities and place them under whatever jurisdiction it chooses. Dissolution and consolidation into Manatee County or Bradenton can be done without local input. It’s a special action of the Legislature that can pass just as easily as the parking garage did.

If there was ever a time for voters in Manatee County to come out in force, it’s during the July primary and in November at the polls. Many of our local representatives, particularly on the county commission, are chosen during the primary. It’s over by the general election.

Here’s hoping that the three Island cities step up and join forces with the locals to make a real force for state and county leaders to reckon with.

LETTERS TO THE EDITOR

Vote to save Island cities

Congratulations and thank you to the five Republican politicians who are pushing OPPAGA to eliminate the three island cities or consolidate them into one, or, worse yet, merge them into Bradenton. So much for home rule.

It is very apparent that Rep. Will Robinson Jr., the instigator, Sen. Jim Boyd, and, last but not least, our own island county commissioner, Kevin Van Ostenbridge, and the other two state delegates are taking a very aggressive stand to ruin AMI as the residents and citizens have known it since our incorporation in 1925.

It is rather obvious that they want to destroy, just for money, the three island cities that we have known and loved. Sad and pathetic! Obviously, Manatee County and the investors/developers are far more important than we are. We all know that you want massive hotels, monstrous houses above 37 feet, etc. It started

with the revengeful decision to build the parking garage. Gee!

Let's bring more folks out here thinking there is more parking! The traffic is backed up now beyond belief! What used to take 20 minutes to 75th Street can now take 1-1.5 hours. How would you five politicians like this traffic where you live? Have you noticed and do you care how many residents are selling and moving away? No!

It is time for the AMI citizens and residents to unite and fight. Let's start by dumping Commissioner Kevin Van Ostenbridge, who is up for reelection in November.

Ruth Cawein

Anna Maria

Thank you from AMIHS

Our annual Heritage Day Festival on March 26 was a wonderful, windy, fun, family-oriented day of celebration. Festival-goers enjoyed food and music as they strolled through the grounds as vendors demonstrated and sold their arts

and crafts. The festival is our chance to thank the community for all the support so generously given throughout the year.

Thank you to so many of our local businesses, sponsors and private donors whose support made this a successful fundraiser.

Thank you to the Privateers for bringing extra excitement this year as they not only captured Anna Maria Mayor Dan Murphy, but surprised the crowd with the capture of Holmes Beach Mayor Judy Titsworth. Generous donations were received, “bailing” the mayors out of jail, with all the proceeds going to AMIHS.

And thank you to our very dedicated volunteers. Your service to the museum and the community helps make our three cities on this beautiful island a wonderful place to live and visit.

Festival Committee Chairs were Sue George, Marion Harbin, Judy Hildman, Barbara Murphy and Carolyn Orshak.

Carolyn Orshak

Anna Maria Island Historical Society

WEDNESDAY, APRIL 17

Holy Yoga, Roser Church outdoor stage, 512 Pine Ave., Anna Maria, 11:30 a.m.

Mah-jongg for beginners, 5701 Marina Drive, Holmes Beach, 1 p.m.

One-on-one tech help, Island Branch Library, 5701 Marina Drive, Holmes Beach, 2-4 p.m.

THURSDAY, APRIL 18

Seashell Shore Walk, Coquina Beach south, 2650 Gulf Drive S., Bradenton Beach, 9 a.m.

RoserRobics, Roser Church fellowship hall, 512 Pine Ave., Anna Maria, 9:30 a.m. Tree Tots: Respecting the Reptile, Robinson Preserve Mosaic Nest, 840 99th St. N.W., Bradenton, 10 a.m.

One-on-one tech help, Island Branch Library, 5701 Marina Drive, Holmes Beach, 10 a.m. to noon Island Morning Book Club, Island Branch Library, 5701 Marina Drive, Holmes Beach, 10:15 a.m.

Sunshine Stitchers Knit and Crochet, Island Branch Library, 5701 Marina Drive, Holmes Beach, 1 p.m.

FRIDAY, APRIL 19

Forty Carrots, Island Branch Library, 5701 Marina Drive, Holmes Beach, 10 a.m. Mah-jongg for experienced players, Island Branch Library, 5701 Marina Drive, Holmes Beach, 11:30 a.m.

Marine Archaeology with the Florida Maritime Museum, Island Branch Library, 5701 Marina Drive, Holmes Beach, 2 p.m.

SATURDAY, APRIL 20

Mornings at the NEST, Robinson Preserve Mosaic Nest, 840 99th St. N.W., Bradenton, 9 a.m. to noon

Meditation, Island Branch Library, 5701 Marina Drive, Holmes Beach, 10 a.m.

Homeschool STEAM Fest, Robinson Preserve Mosaic Nest, 840 99th St. N.W., Bradenton, 2-6 p.m.

SUNDAY, APRIL 21

Homeschool STEAM Fest, Robinson Preserve Mosaic Nest, 840 99th St. N.W., Bradenton, noon to 5 p.m.

MONDAY, APRIL 22

Gentle yoga, Island Branch Library, 5701 Marina Drive, Holmes Beach, 10 a.m.

TUESDAY, APRIL 23

Farmer’s Market, City Pier Park, 103 N. Bay Blvd., Anna Maria, 8:30 a.m. to 2 p.m.

RoserRobics, Roser Church fellowship hall, 512 Pine Ave., Anna Maria, 9:30 a.m.

Family story time, Island Branch Library, 5701 Marina Drive, Holmes Beach, 10 a.m.

Tram tour, Robinson Preserve, 1704 99th St. N.W., Bradenton, 10 a.m.

Mah-jongg for experienced players, Island Branch Library, 5701 Marina Drive, Holmes Beach, 11:30 a.m.

WEDNESDAY, APRIL 24

Holy Yoga, Roser Church outdoor stage, 512 Pine Ave., Anna Maria, 11:30 a.m.

Dollar-A-Day Boys: A Musical Tribute to the Civilian Conservation Corps, Island Branch Library, 5701 Marina Drive, Holmes Beach, 2 p.m.

One-on-one Tech Help, Island Branch Library, 5701 Marina Drive, Holmes Beach, 2-4 p.m.

THURSDAY, APRIL 25

RoserRobics, Roser Church fellowship hall, 512 Pine Ave., Anna Maria, 9:30 a.m. One-on-one Tech Help, Island Branch Library, 5701 Marina Drive, Holmes Beach, 10 a.m. to noon.

Green Explorers: Chasing Gravity, Neal Preserve, 12301 Manatee Ave. W., Bradenton, 10 a.m.

Seaside Quilters, Island Branch Library, 5701 Marina Drive, Holmes Beach, 10 a.m.

Sunshine Stitchers Knit and Crochet, Island Branch Library, 5701 Marina Drive, Holmes Beach, 1 p.m.

AMI Chamber Business Card Exchange and Anna Maria Island Historical Society Pat Copeland Scholarship Awards, Anna Maria Island Historical Society, 402 Pine Ave., Anna Maria, 5 p.m., $5 for members or $10 for prospective members

FRIDAY, APRIL 26

National Arbor Day planting, City Field, 5901 Marina Drive, Holmes Beach, 9 a.m.

Forty Carrots, Island Branch Library, 5701 Marina Drive, Holmes Beach, 10 a.m.

Mah-jongg for experienced players, Island Branch Library, 5701 Marina Drive, Holmes Beach, 11:30 a.m.

Rock garden rock painting, Island Branch Library, 5701 Marina Drive, Holmes Beach, 2 p.m.

Nature Play Festival, Robinson Preserve Mosaic Nest, 840 99th St. N.W., Bradenton, 5:30 p.m.

SATURDAY, APRIL 27

Tram tour, Robinson Preserve, 1704 99th St. N.W., Bradenton, 9 a.m. and 10:30 a.m.

Mornings at the NEST, Robinson Preserve Mosaic Nest, 840 99th St. N.W., Bradenton, 9 a.m. to noon

MONDAY, APRIL 29

Gentle yoga, Island Branch Library, 5701 Marina Drive, Holmes Beach, 10 a.m.

TUESDAY, APRIL 30

Farmer’s Market, City Pier Park, 103 N. Bay Blvd., Anna Maria, 8:30 a.m. to 2 p.m.

RoserRobics, Roser Church fellowship hall, 512 Pine Ave., Anna Maria, 9:30 a.m.

Family story time, Island Branch Library, 5701 Marina Drive, Holmes Beach, 10 a.m.

ON THE AGENDA

ANNA MARIA

10005 GULF DRIVE

FOR INFORMATION, CALL 941-708-6130

Please visit www.cityofannamaria. com or contact city hall for more information.

April 24, 9 a.m. – Planning and Zoning board meeting

April 25, 6 p.m. – City Commission meeting

BRADENTON BEACH

107 GULF DRIVE N.

FOR INFORMATION, CALL 941-778-1005

Please visit www.cityofbradentonbeach. com or contact city hall for more information.

April 17, 1 p.m. – Scenic WAVES meeting

April 18, noon – City Commission meeting

HOLMES BEACH

5801 MARINA DRIVE

FOR INFORMATION, CALL 941-708-5800

Please visit www.holmesbeachfl. org or contact city hall for more information.

April 23, 10 a.m. – Code Compliance Special Magistrate meeting

April 23, 2 p.m. – City Commission meeting with work session to follow

ISLAND-WIDE

April 17, 2 p.m. – Coalition of Barrier Island Elected Officials meeting, Longboat Key Town Hall, 501 Bay Isles Road, Longboat Key

CVHS to celebrate Earth Day

Family-friendly events are planned at the Cortez Cultural Center and Florida Maritime Museum.

BY LESLIE LAKE SUN CORRESPONDENT | llake@amisun.com

CORTEZ – The Cortez Village Historical Society (CVHS) is sponsoring a free Earth Day celebration featuring hands-on learning activities focused on the environment.

The event will be held two days before Earth Day on Saturday, April 20 from 10 a.m. to noon at the Cortez Cultural Center, 11655 Cortez Road W. and will kick off with giveaways and activities organized by CVHS, the Early Learning Coalition, the Florida Institute for Saltwater Heritage, the Longboat Key Coast Guard Auxiliary, the Manatee County Public Library, Mote Marine, Save Our Seabirds and Tenorac Youth Conservation Center/ FWC.

Prizes will be given to the first 50 children to complete the Eco-Adventurer’s Scavenger Hunt by visiting all of the organizations’ booths.

SUBMITTED

Anna Maria Elementary School poster contest awards will be presented at 10:30 a.m., followed by the unveiling of a historic, refurbished fishing practices diorama at 11:15 a.m.

Children of all ages will have opportunities to learn about water conservation, mangroves, fish and fowl through stories, art activities, a pop-up mangrove tent and a self-guided tour of the FISH Preserve, according to CVHS.

PACE CENTER FOR GIRLS

“Teaching children to become good stewards of the land and water will help to protect our precious resources for generations,” according to the CVHS website.

Food will be available for purchase. 2024 Cortez Commercial Fishing Festival T-shirts will also be for sale. Free parking will be available at the FISH Preserve.

The nearby Florida Maritime Museum, 4415 119th St. W., will also be participating with “Hands-On Habits,” featuring students from Rowlett Academies teaching the basics of the book, “7 Habits of Highly Effective People” through interactive activities from 10 a.m. to noon. The event is open to the public and registration is not required.

The events are being held as part of Suncoast Remake Learning Days, a 15-day regional festival beginning on April 20 that celebrates the many learning opportunities in the community. More than 200 free events are scheduled in Manatee, Sarasota, Charlotte and DeSoto counties.

For more information, visit https:// remakelearningdays.org/suncoast.

LESLIE LAKE | SUN

Music on the Porch in full swing

The impromptu music jam session is free and open to the public.

BY LESLIE LAKE SUN CORRESPONDENT | llake@amisun.com

CORTEZ – On the second and fourth Saturday of each month, the porch of the old Bratton Store on the grounds of the Florida Maritime Museum becomes an impromptu music venue.

Known as “Music on the Porch,” the Saturday afternoon jam session of musicians began more than 20 years ago when fiddler Soupy Davis invited local musicians to join him to play music. Davis, who is in his 90s, no longer participates,

Musicians play at Music on The Porch, a free jam session held the second and fourth Saturdays of each month at the Bratton Store porch at the Florida Maritime Museum. SEE

HANDS: Locals join hands to fight big government

protested by residents, visitors, property owners and city elected officials, but those protests were ignored at the county and state levels. Resident and one of Save Florida Home Rule’s organizers, Barbara Ehren, wants to make sure that doesn’t happen again with the elimination of the cities.

“There is a group of people who are gathering together to save Anna Maria Island because we are very concerned about the move afoot in the Florida Legislature to either consolidate the cities or

disband them and put them under either Bradenton or (unincorporated) Manatee County,” Ehren said. “We do not want to see that happen because we suspect, and I believe it’s more than a suspicion, that what would happen under those circumstances is we would lose our zoning and get lots of high-rises. And then lovely Anna Maria Island that everyone adores would become Miami Beach. The visitors don’t want that and those of us who live here don’t want that to happen.”

The group was joined by Holmes Beach Commissioners Pat Morton, Terry Schaefer

and Carol Soustek, who all participated in the event.

“This is the community,” Morton said, gesturing to the gathered residents, visitors and other concerned individuals. “I’m going to go out here to see if I can find some beach people to come and join us. This beach is for them too, it’s not just us. We’re trying to open up some people’s minds to what’s going on. A lot of people in Bradenton, over in Manatee County they think ‘Oh, it’s your problem.’ No, it’s your problem over there too. They don’t realize this is going to affect them too.”

“This is a citizens’ generated

event today and that’s certainly what’s going to be most helpful in making everyone in our area, not just on our Island, aware of the threat of dissolution of our Island, our cities,” Schaefer said. “This is a first step in kind of igniting interest community-wide and getting people out physically to the beach to determine and show that there is a line of defense in supporting and maintaining our way of life and quality of life.”

Soustek joined other volunteers in helping to gather signatures on letters protesting

SEE HANDS, PAGE 28

Commissioners address consolidation

State legislators don’t need voter approval to force the consolidation of the AMI cities.

BY KRISTIN SWAIN SUN STAFF WRITER | kswain@amisun.com

HOLMES BEACH – Commissioners again discussed their concern about a move by the state Legislature to eliminate the three Anna Maria Island cities, consolidating them into one city, into the city of Bradenton or into Manatee County.

During an April 9 meeting, Commissioner Terry Schaefer addressed the elephant in the room, stating that he and other city leaders believe that the ongoing

Office of Program Policy Analysis and Government Accountability (OPPAGA) study is likely to recommend elimination of the cities and place Anna Maria Island under the control of Manatee County commissioners. He said the study is due to be completed by the end of July.

City Attorney Erica Augello said that the report will be sent to the legislators who requested it but otherwise, the results of the study may never be seen by anyone else. State leaders are under no obligation to release the study or its results to any other officials or the public.

Schaefer said the members of the Manatee County state legislative delegation, particularly Rep. Will

Robinson Jr. and Sen. Jim Boyd, requested the report.

At the same meeting, Holmes Beach Police Chief Bill Tokajer said the average response time for his officers is two minutes. The department has its own dispatcher, meaning that only calls to 911 have to go through the county’s dispatchers, saving response time for callers directly to the police department. Schaefer said that one adverse effect of the elimination of the cities would be that all emergency calls would need to go through the county and be answered by the Manatee County Sheriff’s Office, exponentially increasing response time and potentially creating a public safety issue.

“That’s just one example of a

potential issue that can arise for our residents,” he said.

Schaefer also noted that city leaders cannot put a referendum on the ballot to vote against consolidation or elimination of the cities, but local voters can. He said that he encourages members of the voting public who are against consolidation or elimination to consider creating a ballot referendum.

If a referendum is created, it could be the only chance voters have to make their voices heard on the matter. State legislators can force the cities into consolidation by creating and voting on a bill. As long as it’s approved by the governor, the bill would become law without any input from the local governments, community members or voters.

KRISTIN SWAIN | SUN Holmes Beach Commissioners Terry Schaefer, left, and Pat Morton lend their support to the community at the Hands Across the Sand event.

The final Holmes Beach Night Market of the season featured plenty of activity at the Artists’ Guild of AMI, including work by April’s featured artist.

BY JASON SCHAFFER SUN CORRESPONDENT | jschaffer@amisun.com

HOLMES BEACH - The last Holmes Beach Night Market of the season packed the sidewalks with shoppers, diners and art lovers on April 12, who were introduced to the Artists’ Guild of Anna Maria Island’s Featured Artist, Kathy Lee Patterson.

Patterson says she is inspired by local flora, fauna and water scenes.

“I specialize in acrylic, but I really love to be experimen -

Artists’ Guild features Patterson

tal,” Patterson said. “You’ll notice in my feature display you’ll see traditional paintbrush, then there’s gold leaf, palette knife work and even clay with a palette knife.”

Patterson also enjoys making usable works of art in the form of items like tissue boxes, trays and even drink coasters that would bring beach vibes to any end table.

While a lifelong artist, Patterson didn’t begin making art a profession until retiring to Palmetto from her home in Philadelphia.

Anyone wanting a painting of a familiar place in the area will be delighted with Patterson’s works. Paintings on display at the gallery feature local locations from Anna Maria Island, Longboat Key, Perico Island and many

more familiar spots.

While many artists focus on perfect realism, Patterson says while she does paint from photographs she takes, once she gets going she doesn’t necessarily follow the rules. Taking liberties with the scene is not only something she does, but it’s one of the factors that makes her art unique and beautiful. All of Patterson’s art is available for purchase at the gallery, 5414 Marina Drive, which is open daily from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.

In addition to Patterson’s work, the gallery hosted artist demonstrations on the sidewalk, live music from Larry Wilhelm, wine and snacks.

Other Holmes Beach businesses also took part, including Pizzano’s Pizza

MUSIC ON THE PORCH: In full swing

FROM PAGE 8

but the tradition continues under the eye of guitarist Tony Constantinos.

“This started off with Soupy Davis and the music was mostly sea shanties back then,” Constantinos said. “We have musicians who have played together and those who are joining us for the first time. The music can range from early rock from various regions to bluegrass. You just never know.”

Constantinos said there have been up to 25 musicians on the porch playing together and the process is that each one

takes a turn choosing and leading a song.

“Basically, I just tell them what key it’s in and they join in,” he said.

Music on the Porch is co-hosted by the Florida Maritime Museum and the Cortez Cultural Center.

Anyone is invited to bring an acoustic instrument and play along.

“I would love to see more people coming to join us,” Constantinos said.

A tent and picnic tables are available for attendees to sit and enjoy the free music, which runs from 2-4 p.m.

The Florida Maritime Museum is located at 4415 119th St. W.

and Grinders, D Coy Ducks, Small Town Creamery, howluckyami, Irene’s Clothing Store, Sand Dollar, The

Artist demonstrations offered at Island Creperie

Meet the artist of “Joie de Vivre” on Thursdays from 10 a.m.-1:30 p.m. at The Island Crêperie, 127 Bridge St. in Bradenton Beach. Marguerite Jill Dye’s paintings of France adorn the walls of this French eatery and she demonstrates her plein air techniques in ink and watercolor every Thursday morning. Dye has painted in France for decades and follows in the footsteps of her favorite artists, climbing the same paths up Mont Ste-Victoire to paint views that Paul Cézanne also captured, standing by Collioure’s crashing sea in the Tramontana wind like Matisse and Derain and painting Giverny, the home of Monet.

9:00 a.m. TO 10:00 p.m. DAILY 5344 Gulf Drive Holmes Beac h

“ This place has an amazing collection of spirits.” Josh

“Spent t he week in Anna Maria Island and out of all the liquor stores on t he island, t his is by far t he best one, wit h t he best prices and t he most selection. The staf f was very friendly ” Heat her

“ The guys here was very helpful and knowledgeable. They had some great choices on bourbon.

(941) 779-BEER hurricaneliquors.com SHOP

“ These guys had t he best selection , decent prices, and were overall just good people.” Matt hew

“Great assor tment of spirits and competitive prices.” Nyor

“Amazing selection knowledgeable staf f and best ser vice on t he island” Vicky

Feast, Hurricane Hank’s, Freckled Fin and The Doctor’s Office.

JASON SCHAFFER | SUN

The Artists’ Guild of Anna Maria Island’s April Featured Artist, Kathy Lee Patterson, stands with her feature display in the front of the gallery in Holmes Beach.

MARGUERITE JILL DYE | SUBMITTED

"The Fishing Village of Collioure," a plein air oil by Marguerite Jill Dye.

Third wind sculpture coming soon

The city of Anna Maria plans to purchase and install a new wind sculpture near the City Pier entrance. The new wind sculpture will join two wind sculptures previously installed across the street at City Pier Park, above, in conjunction with the Anna Maria Island Garden Club.

JOE HENDRICKS | SUN

Reimagining Pine Avenue bid higher than expected

The city’s latest RFP for the Reimaging Pine Avenue project again generated just one bid.

BY JOE HENDRICKS SUN CORRESPONDENT | jhendricks@amisun.com

ANNA MARIA – Mayor Dan Murphy is among those disappointed with the $1.4 bid received from C-Squared to construct a one-block Reimagining Pine Avenue prototype area.

On March 25, C-Squared submitted the only bid the city received in response to the fourth request for proposals (RFP) issued since 2022 for the long-desired safety improvement project.

The latest RFP sought bids for the installation of brick paver sidewalks along both sides of a one-block portion of Pine Avenue, from Gulf Drive to North Shore Drive, and for new crosswalks in that one-block area.

On April 11, Murphy briefly discussed the proposal with city commissioners. He said the C-Squared bid contains numerous line-item expenses including mobilization, traffic control, brick paver costs, crushed granite costs, excavation costs and more.

For comparative purposes, Murphy said he already had line-item cost estimates provided by the Florida Department of Transportation (FDOT), and also by other engineers utilized by the city.

FDOT is the state agency overseeing the city’s expenditure of approximately $2.5 million in state appropriations previously approved for the Reimagining Pine Avenue project that last year was expanded conceptually to Magnolia and Spring avenues as well.

The city plans to use previously obtained federal funds to install new streetlights in the one-block prototype area, and later along the rest of Pine Avenue.

“I had those two sets of numbers, I had an idea what this should cost, and it was not $1.4 million. That’s what the bid came in at,” Murphy said of the latest C-Squared bid.

He noted that C-Squared previously bid $1.4 million to install sidewalks and crosswalks along the entire length of Pine Avenue.

Murphy said he reviewed the bid with a C-Squared representative and asked him to bring back ad -

ditional information that justifies the estimated line-item costs and/ or proposes ways to lower those estimated costs. Murphy hopes to provide that follow-up information to the commission on April 25.

“I cannot, with a clear conscience, recommend to you a $1.4 million project for one block,” Murphy said, noting the city couldn’t afford to do the rest of Pine Avenue at that rate.

When proposing the one-block prototype earlier this year, Murphy said an engineer estimated the oneblock area might cost approximately $450,000.

“It’s disappointing to me to be

where we are. I was hoping, at this point, I would be asking you for permission to negotiate a contract,” Murphy said.

He noted the C-Squared proposal will not be made available to the media and the public until the end of the month.

Commissioner Jon Crane noted that C-Squared is currently named as a defendant in a wrongful death lawsuit pertaining to a project the company previously completed for the city of Holmes Beach. Crane said he’d be leery of the potential financial implications associated with that unresolved civil lawsuit.

Regarding the C-Squared bid, Commissioner Mark Short said, “It’s disappointing, to say the least, and let’s hope that maybe they come back with a little sharper pencil by the end of the month.”

Since 2022, C-Squared has submitted the only four bids received in response to the city’s Reimagining Pine Avenue RFPs. For various reasons, the city commission rejected three previous C-Squared bids.

JOE HENDRICKS | SUN

The unpaved meandering paths along Pine Avenue are to be replaced with brick paver sidewalks in the same locations.

Adult soccer league gets shaky start

BY MONICA SIMPSON SPECIAL TO THE SUN

ANNA MARIA – After the clearing of the rain clouds, the area adults played five soccer games in The Center’s co-ed league. With roughly 100 men and women playing this season, the games are compressed and the schedule was tightened to accommodate 10 teams.

After three weeks of play, there is no clear leader this season. Pool America currently leads the pack with two wins and a tie, earning the team seven points.

In the third game of the night, Pool America beat Progressive Cabinetry by a single goal.

With 2-1-0 records and six points, three teams are currently tied for second near the season’s halfway mark. Progressive Cabinetry, Salty Printing and Sato Real Estate each have two wins and a single loss.

Sato Real Estate and Salty Printing went head-to-head last week with the Salty squad coming out ahead by two goals.

Teams Solid Rock Construction and Diamond Turf are searching for their first wins. The Solid Rock team has come close with two ties, earning three points in the season.

Solid Rock Construction took a one-point loss against team Moss Builders. The victory put the team just below the Ross Built Custom Homes team.

Winning one game each, Ross Built, Moss Builders, Beach House Waterfront Restaurant, and Language Services Associates look to better their position in the ranks. Ross Built is the head of the bunch with two ties. Beach House and Language Services each suffered two losses early in the schedule.

In the first game of the night, team Ross Built showed their dominance against the Beach House team, ending the first half of the game 4-0. The Beach House defense changed course during the second half of play, only allowing one additional Ross Built goal.

Beach House came back scoring two goals from James Rodriguez and Matt Staggs. Defensively, Aaron Frech and

Golfers compete on Doe Day

It was “A Diamond In The Rough”-themed golf day on April 9 for the Annual Doe Day event at Key Royale Club. Fifty-five women golfers participated in the two-person handicap scramble. First Flight winners were Sharon Tarras and Lori Waggoner shooting a 29.25. Second place went to Debbie DuVernay and Barb Rinckey with a 30.35. Second Flight winners were Roxanne Koche and Connie Livanos shooting a 31.05. Second place in Flight Two were Janet Razze and Terry Westby with a 31.7. In the Third Flight, winners were Marty Clark and Susan Van Orsdel, firing a 32.35. Second-place finishers in the flight were Judy Menchek and Billie Jean Pinson with a 34. Debbie DuVernay had the longest drive on Hole #9. Closest to the pin on Hole #3 was awarded to Alice Kristensen, and Jenny Huibers drove the ball closest to the line on Hole #5.

Danny Free protected the Beach House goal with six and four

Max

Playing

MONICA SIMPSON | SUN Ross Built Custom Home’s Eliza Faillace winds up for her strike with Beach House defenders

BY MONICA SIMPSON SPECIAL TO THE SUN

Young at heart on the pitch

With the start of the spring adult soccer league on the Island, the players’ bench on the sideline of the pitch at The Center had a familiar player in place waiting for the start of each week’s games. The somewhat retired Lyndhurst “Lyn” R.H. Clarke might call the community center field or Slim’s Place his second home, where he congregates with his soccer family.

At 84, Lyn is the most senior member of the Island’s soccer family. He has become an institution among the group that plays pickup games twice a week and in the Island league year-round.

Moving to Anna Maria Island on March 1, 1999, with his wife, Sharon, Lyn brought his love of life spirit to share with anyone he meets.

Originally from the rugby town of Pontypool, Wales, Lyn attended Abersychan Tech, where he became an apprentice and moved to Mersey Side, England at the age of 16. Living in a boardinghouse and working in a

factory, Lyn met lifelong friends.

Being just outside of Liverpool, Lyn and his friends enjoyed the nightlife where they met John Lennon and Paul McCartney, buying them a drink before their show.

Known to be fast now, Lyn was a track star with the Abersychan Tech’s Athletic Association. Because he was small and fast, he played the winger position in a men’s rugby league.

Lyn’s physicality can still be seen on the Island soccer pitch today, whether he is playing against his friends on a Sunday evening or against a young competitor on a Thursday night at The Center. His rugby skills and instincts keep him competitive.

Playing for the Red Tide, a local rugby team, Lyn played his last rugby game when he was 67 years old. His rugby injury list includes breaking his jaw, requiring it to be wired shut, dislocating his shoulders and breaking both collarbones.

Lyn came to the U.S. in 1976 when he was sponsored to work in the Detroit area. Many years later, fate

SUBMITTED

would put Lyn and Sharon at Windjammers, a dance bar in Livonia, Michigan, in 1997.

The couple was soon invited to Bradenton Beach in 1998. On that trip, Lyn saw a house for sale from their friend’s balcony and decided to make Anna Maria Island their home.

As a veteran member of the Island soccer community, Lyn has made countless friends since his introduction to the group in 2001 by Tim Tedesco. Individuals within the league are considered some of Lyn’s best friends from all parts of the world.

In 2019, Lyn and Sharon submitted him to the Guinness Book of World Records as the oldest active living competitive soccer player. Unfortunately, Lyn was not able to find people he used to play with as a youth to support his application.

To the Anna Maria Island soccer community, Lyn is a living legend.

After celebrating his birthday in January, Lyn decided to hang up his competitive boots shy of his 85th birthday. The Center’s league would not be surprised to see Lyn added to a roster mid-season, scoring goals and taunting his opponents the same as usual, while holding his own on the pitch.

On Sept. 4, 1999, Lyn and Sharon were married on the beach as Island residents.

Lyn Clarke with his 2008 Center co-ed recreational soccer team.

Beachfront, award-winning rooms

As long as you’re getting married on the beach, why not stay on the beach?

Bungalow Beach Resort, 2000 Gulf Drive N., Bradenton Beach, has won the Top Romance award in the US by tripadvisor.com, and it is located right on the beach – the perfect place to escape between the rehearsal dinner, the ceremony and the reception. With the Gulf of Mexico just steps from your lushly landscaped cedar bungalow, it’s a great place for an extended stay after the bride and groom leave for their honeymoon.

If the bride and groom want to continue their stay, Bungalow Beach Resort, which also won the 2013 Excellence Award from tripadvisor. com, is a very popular honeymoon destination. Originally a group of beachfront army barracks, each of the Bungalow Beach Resort units retains the old Florida charm that is Anna Maria Island, with modern conveniences inside. And you will stay in luxury with personal touches like baskets of embroidered towels, flowers and candy. Whether you’re getting married or part of the wedding party, pick award-winning Bungalow Beach Resort as your home base where you will cherish those moments when you’re not involved with the ceremony. You’ll want to return when there is nothing to distract you from your stay.

Call Bungalow Beach Resort at 1-800-779-3601 or log onto www. bungalowbeach.com.

Abbey Thomas and Anthony Lane were married March 23, 2024. The wedding venue was The Grand Pavilion at Sandbar. Photos by Jillian Margaret Photography.

Want your wedding photos to be featured here? Submit them to ads@amisun.com, subject 'Wedding Photos' along with your names, date of wedding and location and phone number for a chance to be featured here*.

*Submission of photo not a guarantee for placement. The Sun is not responsible for any copyright infringement.

JILLIAN MARGARET PHOTOGRAPHY.

JILLIAN MARGARET PHOTOGRAPHY.

JILLIAN MARGARET PHOTOGRAPHY.

JILLIAN MARGARET PHOTOGRAPHY.

Get to know Suncoast Aqua Ventures

Reel Time

RUSTY CHINNIS

ver the years, I’ve had the honor and pleasure of getting to know and work with many passionate and action-oriented citizens on the Suncoast, people who turn their concerns into accomplishments. While Suncoast Aqua Ventures was created by a handful of friends in 2016, in my experience there is, generally, a particular individual that inspires and exemplifies the spirit of the NGO (non-profit). In the case of Suncoast Aqua Ventures, that person is Cheryl Huntsinger. In her own words, she explains what inspires and drives the group.

“Troy Brown, Robin Woloszyn and I, along with a bunch of friends that scuba dive and love the water, became concerned with the human trash and debris we discovered on the offshore reefs and our inland waterways. In response, we created a one-of-a-kind competitive event called The Reef & Beach Cleanup. We give cash and prizes in numerous categories to the teams who compete. This is a fun, family-friendly event that, to date, has collected over 97,000 pounds of marine debris from our waterways. Our volunteers come from all ages and all walks of life. They are water enthusiasts, kayakers, fishermen,

scuba divers and anyone who has a passion for our beautiful aquatic ecosystem.

”Post-COVID we started partnering with numerous other like-minded organizations, including Sarasota Bay Watch, Keep Manatee Beautiful, Suncoast Waterkeeper and Suncoast Reef Rovers. We perform targeted tactical cleanups in areas most people don’t even know trash exists – underwater reefs, shoreline cleanups deep in the mangroves and, when there is a need, post-hurricane cleanup events. Our partnership events have collected well over 130,000 pounds from numerous events since 2021.

“We have a busy summer planned, starting with the Second Annual Underwater Cleanup of the Manatee River on May 11. This event will be followed by a cleanup at Bowlees Creek based out of Bahia Mar West Marina on June 15, and a cleanup of Perico Bayou and Palma Sola Bay on Aug. 3. Our last event of the season will be the Eighth Annual Reef & Beach Cleanup on Sept. 28-29 at Seabreeze Park in Terra Ceia.

“We are always looking for new participants and donors to help fund our cleanup efforts! For more information on any of our events, please visit suncoastaquaventures.com or email us at suncoastaquaventures@ gmail.com.”

It’s the work of these local NGOs, their leaders and members that inspire people to preserve this paradise and give them a way to participate in protecting it. If you're looking for

an opportunity to give back, join an event and, as Gandhi said, "Be the change you want to see in the world."

RUSTY CHINNIS | SUN

From left, Suncoast Aqua Ventures founders Troy Brown, Cheryl Huntsinger and Robin Woloszyn at a cleanup hosted by the Bradenton Yacht Club.

SUBMITTED

Horseshoe action

From left, Tom Farrington and Tom Skoloda teamed up to win the day's competition on April 10 at AMI Horseshoes. On April 13, Rod Bussey and Gary Howcroft earned the day’s bragging rights after posting the only 3-0 record. Three teams advanced to the knockout round on April 10 after each went 3-0 during pool play with the bye going to Tim Sofran and Bob Lee. Tom Farrington and Tom Skoloda won the semi 21-15 over Bob Heiger and Dom Livedoti. Farrington and Skoloda jumped out to an early lead in the final and rolled to a 22-10 win over Sofran and Lee to win the day's competition.

CAPT. RICK GRASSETT

This is a great month for snook on shallow flats. Reds and trout will also be more active as the water warms and baitfish become more plentiful. You might find Spanish mackerel, blues and pompano in passes or on deep grass flats. You should also find Spanish mackerel along with false albacore (little tunny), cobia and tripletail in the coastal Gulf of Mexico this month. Tarpon should also make an appearance in bay or back country areas or along beaches by later in the month.

Tarpon will become more plentiful as resident fish make their way out of rivers and creeks and early arriving migratory fish begin to show along beaches, particularly by the end of the month. Water temperature in the Gulf is a key factor with 80 degrees being an optimum temperature. As the water warms towards that, fish will become more

Tarpons on the way

fishing should be productive with small white flies, like my Grassett Snook Minnow fly, shrimp patterns or Shrimp Gurglers. Fish peak tidal flows for the best action.

CAPT. RICK GRASSETT | SUBMITTED

There should be good fly fishing action over deep grass in April. Bill Kempey, of New Jersey, with a trout caught and released while fly fishing Sarasota Bay with Capt. Rick Grassett in a previous April.

plentiful. Resident fish may be rolling on deep grass flats in some of the same places that you find trout, laid up on edges of shallow grass flats or along sand bars. Fly anglers might connect with a black Deceiver or Tarpon bunny fly fished on a 12-weight fly rod with a floating or clear sink tip fly line depending on depth. I always have tarpon tackle, rigged and ready, on the boat this time of year. Snook should be staging

on flats, around sand and oyster bars, on points of islands and around docks and bridges close to passes in the ICW. Fish the edges of bars and potholes when the tide is low and mangrove shorelines or points of islands when the tide is high. I like wide profile flies, such as Lefty’s Deceiver, my Grassett Flats Bunny or EP flies, for snook on the flats. You’ll also find snook around docks and bridges in the ICW. Night snook

Trout should be plentiful on deep grass flats. I like to drift and cast ahead of my drift. Look for trout on deep grass flats with a good tidal flow and a mixture of grass and sand. Fly anglers should score with weighted flies on sink-tip fly lines. I tie Clousers with Ultra Hair on long shank hooks so that they are durable and will hold up to toothy and rough-mouthed fish.

You might also find blues, Spanish mackerel, pompano or flounder mixed with trout on deep grass flats. The same flies and techniques that you use to find trout on deep grass will work for these species, too. You’ll need to tip your leader with wire or heavy fluorocarbon when blues and mackerel are around.

Kiwanis presents gift to AID

The Kiwanis Club of Anna Maria Island Foundation presented $1,000 to All Island Denomina tions President Cornelia Zanetti, seated. Standing are Kiwanis Incoming President Patricia Webster, Foundation Secretary/ Treasurer Sandy Haas-Martens and Foundation Vice President Darrel Shinn.

OBITUARIES

Maureen Morris

On April 5, the beautiful soul of Maureen Morris lost her courageous battle with cancer in the beautiful surroundings of Hospice House with her two sisters, Alene and Barb, by her side.

Maureen will be sadly missed by her extended family at Publix, where she worked for 18 years.

We wish to thank her sister-in-law, Brenda, who was at her side through all of her good and bad times, also her “bestie,” Gail, and Steve and Cindy for taking such good care of her. She was predeceased by her parents, Clara and Ernie

Bartley; her husband, Ernie Morris; her brother-in-law, Ken; nephew, Philip; and her grandparents. She is survived by sisters, Alene (Ken) and Barbara (Philip); brother, Clance (Deb); nephews, Mike, Jason and Jamie; nieces, Deb, Nicole and Nicole Winnipeg; great-nieces, Selina (Ryan) and Chelsea (Dylan); great-great-nieces, Hailey, Katie and Taylor; plus numerous cousins.

We wish to thank all the nurses at Blake Hospital, both emergency and ICU, for all her wonderful care. We’d also like to thank the nurses and support staff at Hospice House for all their care and compassion.

Thank you also to all the doctors who looked after her during her battle with cancer.

A celebration of life will be held on Wednesday, April 17 from 1-4 p.m. at the Arium clubhouse, 11001 Bristol Bay Drive, Bradenton.

BEACH BEAT HOLMES BEACH

4/1, 10:30 p.m., Code ordinance violation, alcohol, 100 71st St. The officer responded to complaints of loud parties on the beach. When he arrived, the officer observed approximately 50-100 people having a beach party. Upon the officer’s arrival, many in the group began to run from another officer who was on the scene. The reporting officer detained a juvenile with

a container of alcohol, but due to the need to assist the second officer’s chase, he released the juvenile. Dispatch then notified the officers that the party had re-formed at 65th Street on the beach. Many of the subjects again began to run from the officers. After ordering the group to stop, one subject continued to run and was detained by the officer and given a citation for an open container of alcohol.

4/6, 6:15 p.m., petty theft, 3900 East Bay Drive. The officer was notified by another officer that he had seen a theft suspect

from a March 26 incident at Publix sitting on a bus bench at Sixth Avenue. The suspect was seen wearing the same hat he was wearing when he allegedly stole alcohol from Publix in March. The suspect denied stealing the alcohol and said he had not been in Publix, but later changed his story and said he had been in the store. The officer reviewed the security footage from Publix, which confirmed the suspect had been in the store and appeared to leave without paying for the alcohol. The suspect was arrested for petty theft.

Coast Guard conducts training exercise

On April 9, U.S. Coast Guard Station Cortez personnel had the opportunity to conduct live man-overboard training to enhance their skills and preparedness for emergency situations at sea. They simulated various scenarios to ensure that every member of the crew is equipped to respond swiftly and effectively in the event of a person in the water.

U.S. COAST GUARD STATION CORTEZ | SUBMITTED

Prepare for hurricane season

Call me crazy, but whenever the hurricane predictions are disclosed for the impending hurricane season it seems to always be the highest number of storms EVER. Well, this year’s predictions are again warning of an extremely active hurricane season, so batten down the hatches and tie up the kids.

According to the Colorado State University forecast, which came out on April 4, they are indicating 23 named storms, 11 hurricanes and five major hurricanes with between four and six making landfall. By comparison, a typical year averages about 14 tropical storms with seven turning into hurricanes. The reason for this is a combination of very warm water in the Atlantic and La Nina, which supports more storms. Warm water gives hurricanes fuel and contributes to a more unstable atmosphere. Ocean temperatures in much of the Atlantic have been setting records for more than a year and scientists have been unable to fully explain why.

Castles in the Sand

LOUISE BOLGER

At the top of the preparedness list are always non-perishable foods and, although many cans have pull tops, it’s best to buy a manual or battery-operated can opener. Next is bottled water and buy it early because, with the prediction of a storm, the shelves are quickly emptied. Batteries, cash in case the ATMs go down in a bad storm, and a full tank of gas are a must. Battery-operated lights and flashlights with candles as a backup are also a must. Once storms are on the way, it’s too late to purchase storm shutters, but this is something you should consider long before you need them. Charge up your smartphones and tablets and buy a battery backup. Know where

your important papers are like insurance policies, school records, mortgage information, tax returns, photos and any other papers you might need in a hurry if your evacuation is longer than you expect. Also, take prescriptions and information to renew them in case you don’t get home for a while. Outside, remove any objects that can be blown away in heavy wind, furniture, toys, plants and awnings. Secure vessels that can’t be relocated with plenty of fenders and extra lines to accommodate the tides and turn off power to the boat.

Have an evacuation plan in place with either a friend or relative and prepare a list of hotels. Don’t forget the pets, their food and medications. It’s also a good idea to take current pictures and/or videos of the interior and exterior of your property for insurance purposes should you have damage.

The mymanatee.org website has a great deal of detailed information concerning everything I just outlined but in more detail. It’s worth taking the time to read

it and implement some of their recommendations.

Finally, if you are in the process of selling or purchasing a new property, remember when storms are in the forecast it is usually not possible to bind an insurance company to cover the new property. This could delay your closing, but hopefully, everyone involved in the transaction will be cooperative.

It’s not all bad news. The hurricane season outlook from the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration isn’t due out until May. However, their forecasters are looking at some of the same problematic models. Nevertheless, we are all warned not to focus on these predictions since other factors come into play in how many storms we get and how strong they are.

My job is not to make predictions but to remind you to get your property and your family ready for the worst and hope for the best. Just assume it will be an active season and start stocking those cans and cases of water.

Dogs soon to be allowed in City Pier Park

BY JOE HENDRICKS SUN CORRESPONDENT | jhendricks@amisun.com

ANNA MARIA – The city commission is adopting a new ordinance that will allow leashed dogs in City Pier Park, except during the city-hosted Memorial Day and Veterans Day events.

As part of the city commission’s ongoing efforts to allow dogs in the park, City Attorney Becky Vose presented on April 11 the first reading of

the newly-drafted Ordinance 24-924, which says, “It shall be unlawful for the owner or keeper of any domestic animal to allow or permit any such domestic animal on any beaches, coastal barrier sand dunes or parks located within the city limits. Provided, however, dogs on leashes shall be allowed in the City Pier Park except on Veterans Day and Memorial Day, and during any other special events so deemed by the city commission. In all instances,

the person accompanying the dog in the park shall promptly remove any feces deposited by such dog and properly dispose of such feces.”

Mayor Dan Murphy, a dog owner, said the Memorial Day and Veterans Day events attract 1,000 or more people, including elderly people who might fear tripping or being knocked over by a dog. During a previous discussion, Murphy noted dogs at those two city-

COMMISSION: Receives proposed charter amendments

that’s hard to actually implement.

nouns specific to the title of the person being referenced. City Attorney Becky Vose said eliminating gender-specific pronouns wouldn’t require city voter approval.

COMMISSION FEEDBACK

Commissioner Jon Crane said a charter statement referencing home rule would be an aspirational statement

“It says the city will ensure, but how are we going to ensure it? I don’t know how,” Crane said.

Arendt said the committee felt it would be nice to have such a statement in the charter but he concurs that it would be difficult to implement.

Crane expressed initial opposition to requiring the unanimous support of the commission to sell or lease a city

property and Commissioner Kathy Morgan agreed. Crane also said he hopes to reduce the number of questions presented to city voters so they have fewer ballot items to focus on.

Raising a concern not addressed by the committee, Commissioner Charlie Salem suggested the commission engage in future discussion about a potential charter amendment that would require an appointed commis-

hosted events could become disruptive in other ways. When issuing permits for special events, the city commission will retain the authority to prohibit dogs on a case-by-case basis.

To be presented for second and final adoption on Thursday, April 25, the proposed ordinance will not allow dogs in the county-controlled, city-owned Bayfront Park or on the city-owned City Pier.

sioner to face election in the next city election if they wish to remain in office for the remainder of the term they were appointed to – if the remainder of that term extends beyond the next city election.

After noting that similar provisions apply at the federal level, Salem said, “It might give our residents an opportunity to express their will on that office.”

JOE HENDRICKS | SUN Anna Maria’s code of city ordinances currently prohibits dogs in City Pier Park.

GUTHRIE: State seeks demolition of net camp

The attorney also wrote that a site inspection was conducted by FDEP on March 15 and “At the time of the inspection the structure was still present, no effort to remove the structure was apparent.”

A court hearing is scheduled for Wednesday, May 1.

Long before monofilament nets made cotton fishing nets obsolete, historical photos show dozens of wooden net camps dotting the waters off Cortez. Cortez commercial fishermen used net camps – structures built on pilings in the water – to mend, clean, store and dry cotton fishing nets.

Guthrie’s net camp, built in 2017, is one of two such structures off Cortez.

The civil suit against Guthrie began on Feb. 6, 2018 when the FDEP claimed that Guthrie had constructed an unauthorized enclosed docking structure on sovereign submerged lands in Sarasota Bay, and asked for its removal.

Guthrie maintained that his family previously had a net camp in that spot and the structure was protected under the 1921

Butler Act, which awards title of submerged lands to adjacent waterfront property owners who made permanent improvements on the submerged lands.

On May 4, 2023, 12th Judicial Circuit Court Judge Edward Nicholas signed an order dismissing the case due to failure to prosecute, but on Nov. 2 it was reopened at the request of FDEP, which claimed it

had not been given proper notice.

The second net camp in Cortez, known as the Curt Johns net camp, is owned by John Guthrie. It is scheduled for refurbishment by the non-profit Florida Institute for Saltwater Heritage (FISH) and is part of Organized Fishermen of Florida’s April 20 coastal clean-up initiative.

NEGLIGENCE: Responses filed in suit

On Dec. 27, 2023, Deborah Trotter filed a civil suit for $50,000 as the personal representative of the estate of her mother. Trotter’s lawsuit lists Ritchie individually and C-Squared Certified General Contractor Inc., a Florida corporation, that was the primary contractor overseeing all aspects of the months-long improvement project at the intersection where the accident took place. Trotter’s suit claims the barricade placement, maintenance of traffic modifications, lack of signage, lack of coordination between traffic and pedestrian signals, and many other factors made the intersection

dangerous. The suit claims that Miriam Trotter’s death could have been prevented if C-Squared had not been negligent.

The suit claims Ritchie was negligent on 14 counts, which include failing to yield the right-ofway, failure to be aware of traffic conditions and 12 other actions that allegedly led to Trotter’s death. In Ritchie’s Feb. 1 response to the suit, filed by his attorney, W. Scott Hamilton, Ritchie admits that Trotter was struck by the vehicle, but denies all other allegations. The response also claims that all damages in the incident were caused in whole or in part by the negligence of persons or entities other than Ritchie, including, but not limited,

to C-Square.

C-Squared’s response to the suit was filed on March 19 by attorney Jeremy Chevres. The response claims Trotter’s death and any damages were caused by negligence on the part of Trotter and Ritchie.

“The plaintiff’s alleged injuries and/or damages resulted from independent, subsequent, unforeseeable, intervening and/ or superseding causes beyond the defendant’s control, and consequently, the defendant is not liable,” Chevres said in the response.

A Zoom video hearing is scheduled for Monday, April 22 at 11:30 a.m. in Manatee County’s 12th Judicial Circuit Court before Magistrate David Caskey.

SUBMITTED

The net camp owned by Raymond Guthrie is one of two off the coast of Cortez. The state owns the waters under the structure and FDEP sued Guthrie for its removal, obtaining a final judgment against him in 2019.

HANDS: Locals join hands to fight big government

the elimination of the three Island cities prior to the start of the event from participants. She said the letters are to be sent to state Rep. Will Robinson Jr. and Sen. Jim Boyd. The two are members of the Manatee County state legislative delegation and both support the parking garage and the state-sponsored Office of Program Policy Analysis and Government Accountability study looking at the possibility of eliminating the cities. The OPPAGA study is the first step toward a special act of the state Legislature eliminating or consolidating the three cities. The study is looking at four possibilities – consolidating the three cities into one new city, eliminating the cities and putting the Island under the jurisdiction of unincorporated Manatee County or the city of Bradenton, or leaving the cities as is. On a recent visit to Holmes Beach, Mayor Judy Titsworth said OPPAGA representatives were looking at eliminating the cities and putting them under the jurisdiction of unincorporated Manatee County, meaning that the county commissioners would decide all matters of government for the Island. The majority of county commissioners live east of I-75 and only one, at-large Commissioner George Kruse, frequently visits the Island

KRISTIN SWAIN | SUN

Above, one of the event’s organizers, Barbara Ehren, thanks participants for showing up to lend their support to the peaceful protest. Right, Betty Dimmick waves a sign at the entrance to Manatee Beach in Holmes Beach directing protest participants to the meeting spot.

to speak with residents and local elected officials. District Three Commissioner Kevin Van Ostenbridge is the county’s largest supporter of the removal of the existing historic cafe building at Manatee Beach and installing a three-story parking garage there. Building the garage would also mean that beach parking in all three Island cities would largely be paid parking instead of free for the public. Currently, Holmes Beach is the only Island city that does not allow paid parking. To keep up and get involved in

TURTLES: Nesting season begins

Level sandcastles before leaving the beach; they can block hatchlings from the water.

Don’t use balloons, wish lanterns or fireworks; they litter the beach and Gulf, and turtles can ingest the debris.

Avoid trimming trees and plants that shield the beach from lights.

the ongoing effort to preserve the Island cities, visit www.facebook. com/savefloridahomerule or email savefloridahomerule@ gmail.com. The group also has T-shirts, baseball caps and other items to help raise awareness for sale at the Anna Maria Island Historical Society Museum at 402 Pine Ave. in Anna Maria.

Never touch a sea turtle; it’s the law. If you see people disturbing turtles, call the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission’s Wildlife Alert hotline at 888-404-FWCC (3922).

A series of Turtle Talks about living with sea turtles is being planned for May at Holmes Beach City Hall, with dates to be announced soon, Turtle Watch Executive Director Kristen Mazzarella said.

Funding for the educational outreach program comes in part from the Suzi L. Fox Adopt-a-Nest Program. For a $125 tax-deductible donation, a plaque dedicated to a person or organization of the donor’s choice is placed on a sea turtle nest that has been laid on an Island beach. When the nest hatches and data is collected, an adoption package is sent to the donor containing a personalized adoption certificate and the location of the nest, the handmade wooden plaque, information about the nest written on the back of the plaque and a letter of appreciation from the volunteers working on the nesting beaches.

“We do not let you know when your adopted nest will hatch. This is protected information that we do not give out,” according to the Turtle Watch website. Plaques will be placed on the beach between midJune through August and remain on the nests for the approximately two-month incubation period.

CLASSIFIEDS

ANNOUNCEMENTS

THE BEST VOLUNTEER position on the island. The AMI Historical Museum needs docents and bread makers. Call Kathy Primeau at 989-560-6381.

ROSER FOOD BANK

needs donations of cash and non-perishable food, PAPER & PERSONAL HYGIENE

PRODUCTS. Donations boxes are located at the Church, Moose Club, and Walgreen’s.

HOSPITAL VOLUNTEERS

WANTED to assist at our information desk, especially weekends. Great for teens needing volunteer hours (16yrs+). Other assignments available. Please call the Blake Volunteer Office at 941-798-6151.

BOAT DOCK WANTED

ISO BOAT DOCK W/LIFT.

Kelly Gitt The Gitt Team Keller Williams on the Water 941-799-9299

CARE GIVER

CAREGIVER LOOKING TO provide help for that special someone. Cooking, shopping, cleaning, Dr. appts. etc. Local on island. 30+ yrs. experience. References. Call 941-374-1227.

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

SALON SUITE / TREATMENT ROOM

Available in Anna Maria Body & Sol Spa and Wellness has a private office for rent. Perfect for a hair stylist (shampoo bowl and plumbing in place), acupuncturist, or counselor/therapist. Looking for a monthly rent, not a per use fee. Please text the biz owner, Amanda, at 941-896-2222

CLEANING SERVICE

TOTAL HOME SERVICES CLEANING: Residential, Commercial, Rentals, VRBO. Professional and Reliable. Call 941-756-4570 or 941-565-3931

EMPLOYMENT

TWO SIDES OF NATURE

- Anna Maria Island's Largest Little Beach Shoppes... is now hiring full time and part-time associates. Varied shifts available must be able to work nights and weekends.

Retail Experience Preferred. Great Pay, Great Fun! Apply today Two Sides of Nature 101 S. Bay Blvd. Unit A-1, Anna Maria.

A/C SERVICE TECH, seasoned, able to work well with others. Input is appreciated, hard work is rewarded. Salary negotiable. 40hr + work week. Paid Holidays and vacation. West Coast Air Conditioning & Heating. Call 941-778-9622

A/C INSTALLER. Change outs. Experienced, High work ethical standards a must. Year round work. No layoffs. Benefits. West Coast Air Conditioning & Heating. Call 941-778-9622

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. 941-778-1115

JSAN CORPORATION

Renovations Construction & Handyman Services 941-243-0995

Lic# CRC1332505 jsancorporation@gmail. com Flooring, Drywall, Painting, Repairs, Kitchen and Bathrooms, Trim & Doors Free Estimates. Credit Cards Accepted.

API’S DRYWALL REPAIR 15+ years experience. Free estimates. No job too small. Love to help you. Call 941-524-8067.

ISLE TILE specializing in Custom Bath/Shower & Backsplash installation. Pressure washing available. Call 941-302-8759 isletileservices.com

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

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

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

ISLAND RESIDENT. TREE/ BUSH Trimming, removal. Sweeping, blowing, and weeding. Weekly, bi-monthly or monthly schedule. Pressure washing. Call Bill Witaszek 941307-9315

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 941705-7096

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

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 941-565-3931.

T & B PRESSURE WASHING Licensed & Insured. Driveways/sidewalks, Roofs, Pool cages, Fences, House (soft wash/ downstream). Call 813638-7636. tandbpressurewashing@yahoo. com Family owned and operated.

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

FOR SALE - PERICO BAY

CLUB Waterfront Beauties! 2 & 3 bedroom models w 2 car garages! Call Today for more info!

Erin Leathem at The Anna Maria Sales Team at Island Real Estate 941-448-5616

FOR SALE - 5400 GULF

Completely updated coastal beauty! Gulf Front 55+ neighborhood community! Call Erin Leathem at The Anna Maria Sales Team at Island Real Estate 941-448-5616

FSBO NORTH-END ANNA

MARIA 3BR/3BA, canal home, 2 car detached garage, fireplace, dock, quiet dead-end street 941-3457429.

ANNA MARIA HOME

$2,900,000 1 house from beach 3 bedroom pool & spa 2 years old. Christine Kourik Remax 314-440-7574

2BR/2BA ALL NEW PAINT, windows. Quartz countertops, new kitchen, all new laminate flooring, New master bathroom, sunroom, washer dryer, New shaker doors, new baseboards. New A/C & New water heater. Move in condition.

$329,900. Sharon Hightower Re/max Alliance group 941-330-5054.

FOR SALE PINE AVE .

Historical Home /store/ office./pool First time to mkt for 24 years. Very cool ! Brenda Boyd May Broker /Owner 941.730.8589 or Scott May 941-238-8377.

RENTALS: ANNUAL

ANNUAL RENTALS WANTED! We have well qualified tenants for beach and mainland annual rentals, Full management or Finders fee. Call today for details. Ask for Paige DUNCAN REAL ESTATE 513-382-1992.

ANNUAL RENTAL: 2BR/2BA furnished Wildwood Springs condo, no pets. $1850 monthly Call 941-778-4800

IN OVER 55 COMMUNITY ON ANNA MARIA ISLAND.. Totally remodeled 2BR/1.5BA, ground level cottage with adjacent parking. Stacked W/D and three air/heat mini splits. Heated pool on site; pickleball courts one block away. Gulf is 300 steps and the bay 200 steps from your porch. Rent includes all utilities and Wi-Fi. Annual rent $2,500 per month. 6 month rent is $4000 per mo. Call Tim 507-382-8880.

BUSINESS & SERVICE DIRECTORY

RENTALS: ANNUAL

ANNUAL RENTAL: Located in beautiful Perico Bay Club, just 2 miles from Anna Maria Island. Gated community with 24 hour security. This villa home has 2 bedrooms, 2 updated bathrooms, updated kitchen, end unit, screened deck and 2 car garage. Unfurnished/No pets. Text 908-875-0299 for more information.

ANNUAL RENTAL, $2750, 2BR/1BA cottage w/ porch, NEW A/C, close to beach, washer/dryer, updated kitchen w/DW.

Dolores Baker Real Estate 941-778-7500.

FULLY FURNISHED

3BR/2BA home in Holmes beach. Annual rental only. Great location. $4,000. per month. Contact us at 941 778-4410.

HOLMES BEACH, ANNUAL RENTAL, 3BR/BA, large balcony, W/D, storage shed, parking for 2, Call 603-969-6840.

RENTALS: SEASONAL & VACATION

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

SEASONAL RENTAL in PALMA SOLA. 3BR/2BA weekly or monthly rates. Contact Barb Grace 941-201-2190

ANNA MARIA ISLAND

CONDOS Large pool, beach access, free WiFi, 1&2 Bedroom $900 to $1200 per week

redekercondosonami.com

Tim 941-704-7525

FOR RENT (SUMMER AT THE BEACH) AMI updated 5 star condo. Available May to November (monthly with Multi-month discount). Million$ water view, first floor, 2BR/2BA, beautiful water view deck, walk to beach, pool, tennis (smoke free/no pets) Owner/ renter email NOW

marketreps@aol.com or 570-239-0431

HOLMES BEACH - 2BR/2BA

Bayside Condo. POOL, Tennis, Pickleball, Beautifully updated. 2024 Summer & Fall Monthly Rental. Call Julie at 312-835-3054 or email shellpointhaven@gmail. com for photos and details

APRIL 2025 2BR/1.5BA for rent: fully furnished, WiFi, TV, W/D, bay view $5500 all inclusive. A 3 minute walk to the beach. 941226-4008

TRANSPORTATION

ANYTIME TRANSPORTATION to all Airports, Casino, etc. Tampa/St. Pete $85. Sarasota $40. Pets welcome. Very dependable. Reasonable rates. Contact Jeanne. 941-7795095