Maria
‘Rings in the Recovery’
A second “Ring in the Recovery” event invites holiday shoppers to celebrate on Saturday, Dec. 21.
BY JOE HENDRICKS SUN CORRESPONDENT | jhendricks@amisun.com
ANNA MARIA – The first of two city-sponsored “Ring in the Recovery” events drew residents and visitors to Pine Avenue on Saturday afternoon. A second “Ring in the Recovery” event is scheduled on Saturday, Dec. 21 from 1-5 p.m.
The events are a celebration of the Anna Maria businesses that have reopened since the city was struck by hurricanes Helene and Milton in late September and early October.
Mayor Mark Short invited Santa Claus to sit outside the Anna Maria Historical Museum and visit with
youngsters, who were also given gifts.
Santa (played by Anna Maria General Manager Dean Jones) was joined by Mrs. Claus (his wife, Laurie) and a helpful elf (Administrative Assistant Barbara Jeffries), whose son, Jackson, handed out candy canes while Mike Sales performed Christmas songs.
“We’re trying to show how much we’ve recovered from the hurricanes and we want to promote the businesses along Pine Avenue and throughout Anna Maria. The city is helping get the word out that they are open for business,” Short said. “This is our first celebration. We’ll have another one next Saturday and we hope to see more people here as we ring in the holiday season.”
Short was joined on the museum grounds by his wife, Pat, and several
SEE RING, PAGE 16
Moose lodges host Christmas party for kids
Kids played games, enjoyed snacks and visited Santa, Mrs. Claus, elves and the reindeer at the Moose Lodge in Bradenton.
BY JOE HENDRICKS SUN CORRESPONDENT | jhendricks@amisun.com
BRADENTON – Anna Maria Island Moose Lodge #2188 and Bradenton Moose Lodge #1223 teamed up to bring holiday joy to area children on Dec. 14.
As was the case with the AMI lodge’s annual kid’s Halloween party, the Christmas party was again held at the Bradenton lodge because lodge #2188 in Bradenton Beach suffered significant damage during hurricanes Helene and Milton and remains closed for the foreseeable future.
The lodges also joined forces for the 2023 kids’ Halloween party while the AMI lodge’s dining room floor was being replaced.
City gives green light to Pines repairs
Damage caused by flooding from Hurricane Helene at 83 of the 86 mobile homes may now be repaired.
BY LESLIE LAKE SUN CORRESPONDENT | llake@amisun.com
BRADENTON BEACH – After nearly three months of uncertainty, 83 of the 86 Pines Trailer Park owners received a notice from the city that they may repair their hurricanedamaged mobile homes with the proper permits.
Some residents remain hesitant to move forward with repairs, however, saying questions about the Pines ownerships’ intent for the park are still unanswered.
Pines residents received a letter from Bradenton Beach Building
Official Darin Cushing on Dec. 9, which stated in part: “We previously provided you with a notice that your property may have been affected by flooding due to hurricanes Helene and Milton, and that a second, more thorough inspection would be performed to gather data critical to making a formal determination as to whether the cost of repairs necessary to restore your building to its pre-damage condition might rise to an amount constituting 'substantial damage' as defined in the City’s Flood Damage Prevention Ordinance 21-538.”
Following the results of that second inspection, and with a review of the data, as well as a review of the property values, repairs may be made with the applicable permits,
JOE HENDRICKS | SUN
Mrs. Claus and Santa brought their reindeer to the Moose Lodge to greet kids.
SEE PINES, PAGE 22
Temporary post office now offers full service
The temporary Anna Maria Post Office contains 780 post office boxes.
BY JOE HENDRICKS SUN CORRESPONDENT | jhendricks@amisun.com
ANNA MARIA – Operating inside a large trailer parked at City Pier Park, the temporary Anna Maria Post Office is now operating as a full-service postal facility.
Anna Maria Postmaster Sheila Brunger said on Dec. 11 that fullservice postal operations began inside the trailer about three weeks ago. Prior to that, limited mail service was conducted out of mail trucks parked under the City Park shade sail.
Home mail delivery has never been available in Anna Maria and residents, property owners and business owners historically have retrieved their mail at the post office.
Brunger said the temporary post office contains 780 post office boxes. The hurricane-damaged post
office building across the street on Pine Avenue contained approximately 2,000 and approximately 900 of those were in use when Hurricane Helene hit.
“If they had one over there, we transferred it over here. So, they have the same number, the same address and we reissued the keys to them beginning the Monday before Thanksgiving so they can pick up their own mail again,” Brunger said as a steady flow of residents passed through the temporary post office.
“It’s nice to be inside, but we’d
rather be at home in our post office again,” she added. Brunger doesn’t know yet when the hurricane-damaged post office will reopen but some restoration work has been done. On Dec. 12, an Andy’s Carpet Cleaning van was parked outside the post office building with a hose extending into the post office building. The storm surge-damaged
drywall has been removed. When asked about holiday mailing, postal worker Kristen Gray said, “It’s Christmas time. Mail early.”
“Do it ASAP,” Brunger added. A sign affixed to the front door of the temporary post office lists Dec. 18-21 as the deadlines for gifts to arrive in time for Christmas using priority USPS shipping services.
JOE HENDRICKS |SUN
Postmaster Sheila Brunger and postal worker Kristen Gray are happy to be working inside again.
JOE HENDRICKS |SUN
The temporary post office contains 780 post office boxes.
ISLAND NEWS
IN BRIEF
expected to open on Thursday, Dec. 19.
Temporary ferry landing expanded
A Barnett Southern work crew spent last week expanding the temporary ferry landing in Anna Maria near the hurricane-damaged City Pier. The addition of an additional spud barge, or barges, will create a T-shaped ferry landing that extends into deeper water than the initial single spud barge provided. Bradenton Area Convention and Visitors Bureau Executive Director Elliott Falcione said the Gulf Islands Ferry captains will conduct sea trials early this week and regular ferry service to and from Anna Maria is expected to resume on Thursday, Dec. 19, weather permitting. Regular ferry service is already operating between the Bradenton Riverwalk in downtown Bradenton and the Bradenton Beach Pier. For up-to-date scheduling and ticket info, visit www.bradentongulfislands.com/ gulf-islands-ferry/.
Bradenton Beach commissioners to discuss 2025 legislative priorities
City commissioners will outline 2025 legislative priorities at a city commission meeting on Thursday, Dec. 19 at noon. New business will include reinstatement of building permits; project management compensation for City Attorney Ricinda Perry; Duncan Seawall’s quote for dock replacement at Seventh and 12th Streets S.; an interlocal agreement with law enforcement; approval of Debris Tech’s invoice for $5,826.50; approval of a $7,591.99 invoice from Gravely for purchase of a new lawn mower; and approval of a $5,411 invoice to Big Earth. The consent agenda includes a Bradenton Beach New Year’s Celebration special event; approval of a Debris Tech invoice for $18,878.20; a Bradenton Beach Tree City USA application; a TECO franchise agreement; and approval of a $40,508.34 invoice from Integrated Solutions Consulting work in November toward the FEMA PA grant program for Hurricane Helene. The meeting will be held at the Katie Pierola Commission Chambers, 107 Gulf Drive N.
CRA to approve holiday décor expenditure
The Bradenton Beach Community Redevelopment Agency is expected to approve a holiday décor expenditure of $46,649.70 at a Thursday, Dec. 19 meeting at 9:30 a.m. Also on the agenda are an attorney project update and a policing update. The meeting will be held at the Katie Pierola Commission Chambers, 107 Gulf Drive N.
To
Scan this code with your smartphone to go there.
Commission receives hurricane recovery update
date, the city of Anna Maria has not condemned any hurricane-damaged structures.
BY JOE HENDRICKS SUN CORRESPONDENT | jhendricks@amisun.com
ANNA MARIA – Mayor Mark Short and General Manager Dean Jones recently provided city commissioners with a hurricane recovery update.
Given during the Dec. 12 Anna Maria City Commission meeting, the update addressed damage assessments, the hurricane-damaged City Pier, a beach replanting project and more.
DAMAGE ASSESSMENTS
Short noted the FEMA field team completed their site assessments a few weeks ago and this week the city will be sending letters to all Anna Maria property owners who appeared to have suffered at least some hurricane damage.
The letters will include information about the hurricane repair permitting process. Short said the city will then use the submitted repair-related permit applications to help determine whether a specific structure has been substantially damaged to the point that it warrants potential condemnation by the city.
“We have the FEMA evaluations but we are going to rely on the property owner and the permitting process. We are not going to just go out and make our own decisions on whether or not a property has been substantially damaged. While this is going on, we’re also inputting the FEMA information. We’re using that as a data point,” Short said.
“At this point, we have yet to come across a property that has been deemed totally damaged or substantially damaged to the point that it needs to be condemned. We have not condemned a single property and we have not had a property yet that’s hit that 50% threshold, based on the formula provided to us,” he said.
PIER INSPECTIONS
Short noted the city recently contracted the George F. Young engineering firm to conduct above-water and underwater structural inspections
and underwater geo-technical inspections of the City Pier walkway that was heavily damaged and partially eliminated by Hurricane Milton. The engineering firm is submitting the needed permit applications to the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers and the Florida Department of Environmental Protection and will design and engineer the pier repairs to be carried out by a yet-to-be-selected contractor. Short said the Army Corps permits have been submitted and the structural inspections were scheduled to begin on Dec. 13, weather permitting. He said the pier debris piled in the pier parking lot by the humpback bridge will also be inspected in attempt to determine what caused the pier walkway to fail during the hurricane. The inspection process is expected to take about two weeks and will coincide with the geo-technical inspection of the submerged lands the pier pilings are driven into.
Short said a second 30-foot spud barge has been added to the previously installed and temporary Gulf Islands Ferry landing located between the damaged pier and the Lake La Vista jetty. The additional barge extends the ferry landing into deeper water and ferry service to Anna Maria is expected to resume on Thursday, Dec. 19, weather permitting.
BEACH REPLANTING
Short also provided an update on the Stimart family’s “Build Back the Beach” beach replanting project. Short said he received an email from Cindy Stimart stating that all potentially impacted property owners in the project area from Sycamore Avenue to Bean Point have received certified letters and most of those property owners will allow the free beachfront plantings to take place on their property in late January. Short
said more information on this project (including volunteer registration and financial donations) can be found at the www.goodguardianscollective.com website.
ADDITIONAL MATTERS
Jones said the city has completed its hurricane debris collection efforts but there are still some debris piles visible throughout the city. He said the city’s code enforcement department is contacting those property owners, who are now responsible for the debris removal. In response to a question posed by Commissioner Gary McMullen, Jones said the city rights of way where debris was placed are being restored.
Jones said hurricane debris has also been removed from three drainage swales and those debris piles would soon be removed. He also said FEMA is accessing the city’s stormwater infiltration system to determine what additional steps might be taken to improve the performance of the city’s stormwater and drainage systems during heavy rains.
Jones said hurricane-related road repairs will begin on Jan. 4 for the city streets that sustained erosion and significant deterioration during the hurricanes.
He said six or seven parking spaces will be created in the City Pier parking lot for those using the temporary post office across the street in City Pier Park. He said most of the beach access points have been restored but work continues on a couple of beach access points along North Shore Drive.
Jones said the Manatee County Sheriff’s Office has surveyed residential canals in search of debris and derelict vessels and one derelict vessel has already been tagged for removal.
JOE HENDRICKS | SUN
The expanded ferry landing is
JOE HENDRICKS | SUN
This debris pile came from the hurricane-damaged City Pier.
Sheriff’s office recognizes former mayor Murphy
Dan Murphy forged a strong alliance with the sheriff’s office during his 10 years as mayor.
BY JOE HENDRICKS SUN CORRESPONDENT | jhendricks@amisun.com
ANNA MARIA – Manatee
County Sheriff Rick Wells and other members of the sheriff’s office expressed their appreciation for former Anna Maria Mayor Dan Murphy and his 10 years in office.
During the Dec. 12 Anna Maria City Commission meeting, Capt. Lou Licata presented Murphy with a plaque on Wells’ behalf, accompanied by Lt. John Belt and Sgt. Brett Getman from the sheriff’s office Anna Maria Unit.
“This is in recognition of Mayor Murphy’s service to the city of Anna Maria,” Getman said.
Licata then said, “We wanted to make sure you got the proper recognition that you deserve from the sheriff’s office. You’ve always been a huge advocate for
us and for the unit out here. It doesn’t go unnoticed or unappreciated. I definitely appreciate it and I know Sgt. Getman does, as well as Lt. Belt and all the way up to the sheriff.”
Licata read aloud the inscription on the plaque presented to Murphy for his exemplary leadership that began in November 2014 and ended on Nov. 19.
“His commitment, vision and tireless support profoundly impacted our community,” the plaque says, noting Murphy’s partnership with the sheriff’s office strengthened public safety and created a safer city for its residents and visitors. The plaque expresses Wells’ and his office’s gratitude and offers best wishes for Murphy in his retirement.
“Thank you very much. I am enjoying my retirement. I’m honored that I received such a beautiful plaque,” Murphy said.
Murphy then thanked Mayor Mark Short and the reconfigured city commission for the farewell ceremony that took place on
Nov. 19. Murphy couldn’t attend the ceremony because he was hospitalized at the time, but he was able to later watch it in its entirety via Facebook video. During the ceremony, Short proclaimed Dec. 20, 2024 (Murphy’s 80th birthday) to be “Mayor Dan Murphy Day” in Anna Maria.
“I emotionally probably couldn’t have handled it had I been here,” Murphy said. “But
laying in that bed, I only could think of how grateful I was to have worked with each one of you and how much we accomplished over the years – you and the staff.”
Referencing the mythical King Arthur and his court while expressing gratitude for his own decade in office, Murphy said, “It was just remarkable. It was a piece of Camelot.”
Murphy mentioned the strong
alliance the city and the sheriff’s office have forged during the many years the sheriff’s office has served as the city’s contracted law enforcement agency, which he noted was the only such alliance in Manatee County.
“It has worked so well and it’s proven itself time and time again,” Murphy said, noting the sheriff’s office helped the city through six hurricanes and a pandemic during his time as mayor.
He said contracting the sheriff’s office continues to be a costeffective means to provide the city with a law enforcement agency that offers a wide array of services and resources.
“I hope you’re able to keep that alliance live and well,” he told the new mayor and commission.
In conclusion, Murphy said, “Without any further ado, I’m going to boogie out of here,” which he did, shaking hands with many in attendance as he exited the commission chambers.
JOE HENDRICKS | SUN
From left, Lt. John Belt, Sgt. Brett Getman and Capt. Lou Licata presented former Mayor Dan Murphy with a plaque given by Sheriff Rick Wells.
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LETTERS TO THE EDITOR
Thanks to cleanup crew
During the tragedy that was Hurricane Helene and Hurricane Milton, there were many teams of helpers that were hired to pick up our precious memories that we had to place at our curbside. Most did a marvelous job, but one pair went above and beyond what they were paid to do.
Not only did Andrew and Carl pick up the accumulated debris, but my surveillance cameras show them sweeping my driveway and the street in front of my house.
Not only did they do this once, but they did this several more times and they said that their company did not pay them for their extra efforts.
Some residents complained when their trash truck got too close to their property while most of us were very grateful.
In the spirit of this Christmas season, I would like to use this GoFundMe Account to reward these two: https://gofund.me/ df46af8b
Thank you, Merry Christmas and God Bless!
Heavenly cartoon
I was so impressed with the cartoon on page 6 of the Dec. 11 issue of The Sun. What a wonderful tribute to Hoss, the rescue beach horse that was killed on the way home from his "work." I drive on the causeway almost daily and love seeing the horses in the water entertaining the tourists and their children. The cartoon made me sad but I also loved the image of Hoss wearing wings. I think he won his wings with the good work he did and is resting in Heaven (after leading Santa's sled around AMI, of course).
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.
Bruce Birkman Holmes Beach
Barbara Gross Perico Island
ANNA MARIA
10005 GULF DRIVE
FOR INFORMATION, CALL 941-708-6130
Please visit www.cityofannamaria.com or contact city hall for more information.
Dec. 24, all day – City offices closed, Christmas Eve
Dec. 25, all day – City offices closed, Christmas Day
Dec. 31, all day – City offices closed, New Year’s Eve
BRADENTON BEACH
107 GULF DRIVE N.
FOR INFORMATION, CALL 941-778-1005
Please visit www.cityofbradentonbeach.com or contact city hall for more information.
Dec. 19, 9:30 a.m. – Community Redevelopment Agency meeting
Dec. 19, noon – City Commission meeting
Dec. 24, all day – City offices closed, Christmas Eve
Dec. 25, all day – City offices closed, Christmas Day
Dec. 31, all day – City offices closed, New Year’s Eve
HOLMES BEACH
5801 MARINA DRIVE
FOR INFORMATION, CALL 941-708-5800
Please visit www.holmesbeachfl.org or contact city hall for more information.
Dec. 20, 5:01 p.m. – City Commission special budget hearing
Dec. 24, all day – City offices closed, Christmas Eve
Dec. 25, all day – City offices closed, Christmas Day
Dec. 31, all day – City offices closed, New Year’s Eve
WEDNESDAY, DEC. 18
One-on-One Tech Help, Island Branch Library, 5701 Marina Drive, Holmes Beach, 3-4 p.m.
THURSDAY, DEC. 19
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, DEC. 20
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, 2:30 p.m.
Santa Claus is Coming to Town, Holmes Beach City Hall, 5801 Marina Drive, Holmes Beach, 3-5:30 p.m.
Movie Under the Stars, “Christmas in Yellowstone,” Robinson Preserve Mosaic NEST, 840 99th St. N.W., Bradenton, 6 p.m.
SATURDAY, DEC. 21
Sweet Seasons: A Holiday Chocolate Workshop, Island Branch Library, 5701 Marina Drive, Holmes Beach, 2 p.m.
Fishing Club, Robinson Preserve Valentine House, 1704 99th St. N.W., Bradenton, 2:30 p.m.
SUNDAY, DEC. 22
Master Gardener Tour, Perico Preserve, 11700 Manatee Ave. W., Bradenton, 9-11 a.m.
MONDAY, DEC. 23
Just Believe Polar Express Challenge, Island Branch Library, 5701 Marina Drive, Holmes Beach, all day
TUESDAY, DEC. 24 Christmas Eve
WEDNESDAY, DEC. 25 Merry Christmas!
FRIDAY, DEC. 27
Tower Talk, Robinson Preserve tower located in the center of the park, Bradenton, 10 a.m. to noon
Mah-jongg for experienced players, Island Branch Library, 5701 Marina Drive, Holmes Beach, 11:30 a.m.
SATURDAY, DEC. 28
Saturday Mornings at the NEST, Robinson Preserve Mosaic NEST, 840 99th St. N.W., Bradenton, 9 a.m. to noon
MONDAY, DEC. 30
Just Believe Polar Express Challenge, Island Branch Library, 5701 Marina Drive, Holmes Beach, all day
Wonder Walk, Robinson Preserve expansion, 840 99th St. N.W., Bradenton, 10 a.m.
TUESDAY, DEC. 31 New Year’s Eve
Seashell shore walk, Coquina Beach south, 2650 Gulf Drive S., Bradenton Beach, 9 a.m. Meet under the Longboat Key Bridge.
Mah-jongg for experienced players, Island Branch Library, 5701 Marina Drive, Holmes Beach, 11:30 a.m.
FEMA funds may be available to elevate homes
A presentation pertaining to possible funding assistance will be given on Jan. 9.
BY JOE HENDRICKS
SUN CORRESPONDENT | jhendricks@amisun.com
ANNA MARIA – FEMA financial assistance may be available to Anna Maria Island homeowners who wish to elevate their ground-level homes to avoid future flooding.
Anna Maria Mayor Mark Short made this announcement during the city commission’s Dec. 12 meeting. He told commissioners he invited the city’s FEMA consultant, Del Schwalls, to address the commission and the public on Thursday, Jan. 9. Schwalls assists the city with its flood insurancerelated Community Rating System compliance efforts that help provide Anna Maria property owners with reduced flood insurance rates.
Short said it’s been brought to the city’s attention that there are FEMA programs that may benefit Anna Maria and Anna Maria Island residents, including a program that may possibly help fund a significant percentage of the cost associated with elevating a ground-level home for flood prevention purposes.
Short said he asked Schwalls to make a presentation about the elevation assistance program, what it entails, what would be required of the city and what it would mean for residents and property owners interested in pursuing FEMA assistance.
“This all came out in the flood of information
JOE HENDRICKS | SUN
This ground-level, beachfront home in Anna Maria suffered damage during Hurricane Helene.
we’ve received since the hurricanes. I do think it could be of interest to some of our property owners,” Short said.
Commission Chair Charlie Salem suggested promoting the Jan. 9 presentation on the city’s Facebook page so residents and property owners are aware of it. The meeting is scheduled at 2 p.m. at city hall.
“I know this would be of interest to a number of people in our community,” Salem said.
Anna Maria General Manager Dean Jones agreed and said the presentation might also be of interest to property owners elsewhere on Anna Maria Island.
Art show returns to Roser
The City Pier Park December Art and Craft Show will feature painters, woodworkers, jewelry, pottery, metalsmiths and more on Friday, Dec. 27 and Saturday, Dec. 28 from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. in the rear parking lot at Roser Memorial Community Church, 512 Pine Ave. People are invited to have a free cup of coffee from the Community Coffee Corner, chat with neighbors and shop local this holiday season. The show also serves as a fundraiser for the Roser Food Pantry, with attendees asked to bring canned or nonperishable foods to support the food pantry.
Artists’ Guild hosts outdoor markets
The Artists’ Guild of Anna Maria Island gallery may be temporarily closed due to hurricane damage, but that’s not stopping local artists from creating their one-of-akind pieces and offering them to the public. Come out to the Guild Gallery and shop the Hurricane Recovery Fine Art and Craft Sale on the sidewalk every Saturday and Sunday from noon to 4 p.m. through the end of December. Local artisans will be on hand each day of the market, offering unique gifts for you and your friends and family. The gallery is located at 5414 Marina Drive in Holmes Beach.
Open for business
ANNA MARIA
• AMI Beach and Dog Supply
• AMI Beach Hut
• AMI Coconuts
• AMI Outfitters
• Anna Maria General Store
• Anna Maria Life Real Estate
• Anna Maria Life Vacation Rentals
• Beach Bums
• Beach Hut
• Bortell’s Lounge
• Cool Beans AMI
• DBTB Juice Bar & Bakery
• Dips Ice Cream
• Ginny’s and Jane E’s
• gRub Tropical BBQ
• Gypsy Soul
• Harry’s Grill
• Island Cabana
• Lazy Turtle Beach Rentals
• Mademoiselle Paris
• Nomad Collection
• North Shore Café
• Olive Oil Outpost
• Pine Avenue Bait and Tackle
• Pineapple Marketplace
• Pizza Social
• Poppo’s Taqueria
• Q’s Boutique
• Shiny Fish Emporium
• Slim’s Place
• Sushi Ramen
• The Center of Anna Maria Island
• The Donut Experiment
• The Porch
• Two Sides of Nature
• Waterfront Restaurant
• White Egret
BRADENTON BEACH
• Anna Maria Oyster Bar
• Back Alley
• Bamboo Island Bar
• BeachHouse Restaurant
• Blooms by the Beach
• Bridge Street Jewelers
• Bridge Tender Inn
• Circle K
• Daiquiri Deck
• Fudge Factory
• Island Donut Company
• Island Time
• Kokonut Hut
• Monetti Apparel
• Pane e Amore Italian Café
• Salt Bar & Table
• Shore Thing Tiki Cruises
• Smoquehouse
• Tommyknockers Saloon
• Wicked Cantina
HOLMES BEACH
• ACE Hardware
• Alvin’s Island
• AMI Coconuts
• Anchor Inn
• Anna Maria Island Beach Café
• Anna Maria Island Coffee Shack
• Anna Maria Island
Dolphin Tours
• Anna Maria Island Sun
• AMI Boat Tours
• Artists Haven
• Baskin Robbins
• Blueberries Café
• Cheesecake Cutie
• China 1
• CrossFit Anna Maria
• Crysten’s AMI Boat Tours
• Dollar Tree
• Duffy’s Tavern
• Dunkin Donuts
• Edibles & More
Country Store
• Fifty-Three Fifty The Pourhouse
• Freckled Fin
• Fun and More Rentals
• Graze Street AMI
• Grooms Auto Repair
• Gypsea Tides
• Hancock Whitney Bank
• Holmes Beach Automotive Service
• Holmes Beach Post Office
• Holy Cow Ice Cream
• Hurricane Hanks
• Hurricane Liquor
• Island Animal Clinic
• Island Bazaar
• Island Mail & More
• Isola Bella Italian Eatery
• Kiwi’s Fish & Chips
• La Creperie
• Los Chiludos
• Paradise Bagels
• Pizzano’s Pizza & Grinders
• Publix
• Reed Physical Therapy
• Salon Salon
• Sand Dollar
• Scott’s Deli
• Skinny’s Place
• Small Town Creamery
• Solo’s Pizza
• The AMI Airport
Shuttle Guy
• The Chateau
• The Doctor’s Office
• The Doctor’s Garden
• The Hot Dog Guy Boat
• The Ugly Grouper
• Time Saver
• Topsail Steamer
• Vintage Beach
• Walgreens
• West Coast Surf Shop
• Zen Nails
CORTEZ
• Anna Maria Oyster Bar
• A.P. Bell Fish Co.
• Breezy Bakery
• Clam Factory
• Coastline Dolphin & Snorkeling
• Cortez Café
• Cortez Kitchen
• Foxi Coffee
• Pig Out Food Truck
• Star Fish Co.
• Swordfish Grill and Tiki
• The Beach Shop
• The Fox Mercantile
• Tide Tables
• Tyler’s Ice Cream
Ginny’s and Jane E’s reopening
Ginny’s and Jane E’s Café in Anna Maria will reopen on Wednesday, Dec. 18 with a 1-2-3 promotion that includes $1 coffees, $2 mimosas and $3 “Ginny’s Famous Cinnamon Rolls.” The establishment’s Dec. 13 Facebook announcement said, “We have missed everyone and are looking forward to seeing our community café up and running again. The Island is healing.” The café has been closed since Hurricane Helene struck the Island in late September.
Nomad Collection reopens in new space
Located in the old Anna Maria post office plaza at the intersection of Gulf Drive and Spring Avenue, the Nomad Collection boutique is currently operating in the small space formerly occupied by Anna Maria Rocks while waiting for their larger main location next door to also reopen once the hurricanerelated repairs and restorations are complete.
Drift In renovations continue
The Drift In’s new and expanded tiki bar is now under construction on Bridge Street. According to management, the significantly renovated Bradenton Beach establishment is expected to reopen in mid-January after closing in late September due to storm surge damage from Hurricane Helene.
JOE HENDRICKS | SUN
JOE HENDRICKS | SUN
JOE HENDRICKS | SUN
Bayfront Park restoration continues
After being used as a hurricane debris collection and processing center, the Bayfront Park parking lot is being restored for public parking. The work done last week also included removing fallen trees and addressing additional hurricane damage the city-owned, county-managed park in Anna Maria sustained.
JOE HENDRICKS | SUN
Wildlife Inc. co-founders hope to re-open soon
A GoFundMe page has been set up to help non-profit co-founders Gail and Ed Straight after hurricanes damaged their home and animal rehab center.
BY LESLIE LAKE SUN CORRESPONDENT | llake@amisun.com
BRADENTON BEACH – Wildlife
Education and Rehabilitation Center
Inc. co-founders Gail and Ed Straight are working toward rebuilding not only their hurricane-damaged home, but restoring the non-profit wildlife rehabilitation center they’ve run for the past 34 years.
“I want people to know we’re working our way back to be able to take their animals in,” Gail said. “I miss having the animals here.”
While they rebuild their home and the rehabilitation center, the Straights are staying in a nearby apartment.
“We’ve been in this house 54 years and never got a drop of water,” she said. In between taking Ed to his dialysis appointments, Gail is back at home each day working.
“We’re waiting for drywall to be delivered. The floors need to be replaced,” she said. “I have no sinks. If I need warm water, I go outside and fill a bowl with the hose and take it over to the microwave and heat it up so I can wash things or just make a cup of tea.”
Ed and Gail were home during Hurricane Helene and watched as the water rose up to about 3 feet inside their house.
“We moved most of the animals before the storm, when we knew it was coming,” Gail said. “The water came
here. My grandson, who’s a policeman, moved them out back and put them on top of cages.”
She said the freezers and refrigerators were destroyed in the storm and Wildlife Inc. recently received donations of a small freezer and refrigerator.
“Right before the storm, I had just bought $1,000 worth of food for the owls, that all had to go into the landfill,” she said.
Straight is currently taking care of five raccoons and several owls in cages behind the house.
“We’ve been taking some animals in,” she said. “Our phones are off right now.”
She said it will be at least another month or two before the rehabilitation center will be operational.
“I’ve gotten people coming to help,” she said. “I just wish I could get back to doing this full time.”
Gail said they are dealing with insurance issues as well as finding available electrical and plumbing contractors to get up and running. She said she and Ed are also appreciative of the help they’re received from the community.
“If this happened again, I couldn’t do it,” she said. “If we flood like this again, I’m gone.”
GOFUNDME
A GoFundMe page has been set up to help the Straights get back on their feet after the storms.
Page organizer Juli Vasilas wrote: “For nearly 40 years, Gail and Ed Straight have passionately and tirelessly organized Wildlife Inc. Education & Rehabilitation Center, a volunteer based non-profit which relies solely on private donations and receives NO funding from local, state, or federal governments. They have rescued, rehabilitated and aimed to release an estimated 150,000 injured or orphaned wildlife. They are some of the most selfless and dedicated people I know, who have made tremendous
sacrifices in order to serve the wildlife in their community. On Sept. 26, their Anna Maria Island location was severely damaged by Hurricane Helene. Risking their own safety, they were miraculously able to keep ALL of the wildlife safe, however their home, wildlife hospital and both of their vehicles are a total loss. I am hoping to spread their story and provide a platform for their loyal supporters to help them in what I am sure will be a very long and challenging road of rebuilding their lives. Thank you for considering a donation, any amount is hugely appreciated by these deserving animal advocates.” https://gofund. me/c6987b87
LESLIE LAKE | SUN
Above, Ed and Gail Straight’s home, the Wildlife Inc. animal rehab center, sustained damage during Hurricane Helene. Above left, Gail Straight feeds a raccoon.
Christmas bikes an annual labor of love
Carl Augostini wants kids to have bikes at Christmas and all year long.
BY JOE HENDRICKS SUN CORRESPONDENT | jhendricks@amisun.com
ANNA MARIA – Each year, resident Carl Augostini restores discarded bikes and donates them to a Sarasota church to give away during the Christmas holiday.
This year, Augostini restored and donated 35 children’s bikes and three adult bikes to the Light of the World Sarasota church. Augostini, a retired electrical engineer, restored an additional 20 adult bikes this year. The first 10 bikes were donated and delivered to a halfway house that assists former jail inmates. Delivered later, the additional 10 bikes were donated to a church that assists the homeless. Former Island resident Dave Huggins assisted Augostini with those deliveries.
Augostini has been at this for at least 13 years and many years ago, Roser Memorial Community Church employee Charles Wade connected him with The Light of the World church. On Dec. 13, Light of the World church volunteer David Daniels, his son, D.J. Daniels and family friend Elijah Pantophlet arrived at Augostini’s Anna Maria home in two pickup trucks, each towing a trailer to be filled with donated bikes.
David Daniels, the owner of Devine Design Landscaping and Maintenance,
said, “We knew we needed two trailers this year because last year we barely stuffed them into one trailer.”
Augostini’s adult children, Craig and Carla, and their spouses, Lisa Augostini and Derek Dobbertin, were also on hand to help load the trailers.
“This is the most I ever had,” Augostini said.
“That’s a lot of bikes,” Craig added.
Two of the childrens' bikes featured “Barbie” paint schemes and one of the childrens' bikes featured a “Hot Wheels” paint theme, with a noisemaking RPM gauge attached to the handlebars.
When asked why he does this, Augostini said, “I like to see kids have
bicycles. It gets them away from their iPhones and iPads and gets them out there getting some exercise and doing things kids should be doing.”
Augostini spends many hours each year restoring the bikes donated to him and this year he had to restore most of them a second time after they were partially submerged in the hurricane-related saltwater storm surge that intruded the ground-level garage of his elevated home.
“Most of them were done and the sprockets all froze up and I had to redo them,” he explained.
“During Hurricane Helene, I lost the garden, the yard and all the plants. There was a lot of water in
the garage and I lost a lot of tools and bike parts. They were rusted and the saltwater ate right through them. Milton took a lot of siding off the house and took a lot of soffit out. It took the ceiling above the deck and a few shingles and gutters but Craig is very handy and we put most of it back together.”
JOE HENDRICKS | SUN
From left, Elijah Pantophlet, Craig Augostini, Derek Dobbertin, Carl Augostini, David Daniels, Carla Dobbertin, D.J. Daniels and Lisa Augostini loaded the two trailers.
JOE HENDRICKS | SUN
Carl Augostini’s bikes come in a wide variety of sizes and colors.
Meet Santa in Holmes Beach
Santa Claus is coming to Holmes Beach City Hall to meet with all the good boys and girls on Friday, Dec. 20.
Children of all ages can visit with Santa in the wishes in with the big guy in red. The event is
Dozens take Bethlehem Walk
The annual Roser Memorial Community Church Bethlehem Walk begins with an angel, Mary and Joseph taking the lead. The walk covers two blocks in the city of Anna Maria as participants walk with Mary and Joseph to hear the story of the night of Christ’s birth. The walk ends back at the church with the birth of Jesus and a celebration with sweet treats.
Left, Roser Church Pastor Dirk Rogers makes friends with a very docile pig during the annual Bethlehem Walk.
KRISTIN SWAIN | SUN
Roser hosting three Christmas Eve services
Everyone is invited to come celebrate the birth of Christ at Roser Memorial Church at one of three different worship services on Christmas Eve. The first service is the 4 p.m. children’s service, featuring a nativity pageant in which all children are invited to participate. There will be singing, special music and a message from Pastor Dirk Rodgers. Weather permitting, the 4 p.m. service on Tuesday, Dec. 24 will be held outside on the stage in the rear of the church. Participants are asked to bring lawn chairs. The second and third services, at 7 p.m. and 9 p.m., are indoor candlelight services in the sanctuary. During the 7 p.m. service, the Roser choir will sing, joined by the Roser Ringers handbell choir. The congregation will be invited to sing Christmas carols and listen to a message from the pastor. The candlelight services will be streamed live on the church’s YouTube channel, www.youtube.com/c/RoserChurch. Roser is located at 512 Pine Ave. in Anna Maria.
Roser choir rings in holidays
KRISTIN SWAIN | SUN
The Roser Cantata Choir and Chamber Orchestra presented “A Concert of Hope, Peace, Joy and Love” during a Dec. 15 worship service. The cantata was compiled and directed by Roser Director of Music Ministries Craig Romberger.
MARTHA MCALLISTER | SUBMITTED
JOE HENDRICKS | SUN Roser Church gets new roof
The hurricane-related roof replacement project at the Roser Memorial Community Church in Anna Maria last week included removing and replacing the shingles and other roofing materials on the historic church steeple.
MOOSE: lodges host children’s Christmas party
42 children attended Saturday’s party. Upon arrival, each child was asked to guess the number of candies contained in a tumbler sitting on the table. Malcolm Riti hit it right on the head when he guessed 30 pieces. The kids also received gingerbread-themed stickers and sticker sheets. They were treated to a breakfast of French toast sticks before Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer arrived, which led to the children singing Rudolph’s theme song.
Before Santa arrived, AMI lodge member and event volunteer Sandra Zenzel read aloud “ ‘Twas the Night Before Christmas.” The kids were then asked to sing “Here’s Comes Santa Claus” to greet Santa as he and Mrs. Claus arrived. After taking his seat, Santa visited with the children and each child received a gift selected specifically for them.
As the festivities wound down, AMI lodge Administrator Byron Dalton noted the annual children’s parties are part of the Moose organization’s mission to serve the community. Dalton expressed appreciation for the Bradenton lodge’s partnership and the teamwork shared with lodge administrator Wanda Ayers.
Ayers tended bar during Saturday’s party and served Bloody Marys and other adult beverages to some of the parents and grandpar ents in attendance.
Regarding the damaged lodge in Bradenton Beach, Dalton said the plan is to soon wall off the south end of the lodge so the social quarters (the bar area) and the upper deck can be used while waiting for the dining room to later be restored or reconstructed.
Amani
Cortez celebrates Christmas
A slight occasional drizzle didn’t dampen the Christmas spirit of children and their families at the Dec. 14 Christmas in Cortez celebration at the Florida Maritime Museum and Cortez Cultural Center. Attendees were treated to bounce houses, face-painting, crafts, games, a pirate photo op with the AMI Privateers and a visit from Santa Claus. Activities were held on the grounds of the Florida Maritime Museum and the nearby Cortez Cultural Center.
LESLIE LAKE | SUN
The Anna Maria Island Privateers brought their sled to Christmas in Cortez at the Florida Maritime Museum.
JOE HENDRICKS | SUN
When Natalie later opened her present, she discovered a My Look sparkling gem hair styler.
JOE HENDRICKS | SUN
Seven-year-old
received a makeup kit. Henry, 8, received a Terra remote-controlled spider.
Beach Rentals owner Tom “T-Bone” Anderson expects a successful tourist season.
RING: Anna Maria ‘Rings in the Recovery’
FROM PAGE 1
family members who later visited many Pine Avenue businesses.
Attendees included London residents Kelly and Ramanan Rajamanohara and their infant son, Rory.
Originally from Scotland, Kelly said she’s been visiting Anna Maria since she was 17 or 18 years old. She said they considered postponing their trip, but ultimately decided to vacation on Anna Maria Island as planned.
“My uncle came in the middle of November and said everything was quickly cleaned up,” she said. “It seems a lot quieter, but more businesses are up and running than I expected, which is impressive.”
Ramanan noted more businesses have reopened since they arrived.
Anna Maria resident and retired U.S. Marine Christian Ulanch posed for a photo with Santa, joined by his friend Laurie Schaal, who made a weekend escape from the winter weather in Grand Rapids, Michigan. Schaal asked Santa for some sunny weather before she returned to Michigan on Monday.
BUSINESS RECOVERY
Across the street from the museum, The Island Cabana retail store that reopened on Black Friday had several customers inside browsing and buying.
Next door, AMI Outfitters owner Jennifer Hagey said she and her husband, David, also reopened their store on Black Friday. She said business has been slow but she hopes business will pick up as more vacation rental guests return.
“It’s just nice to be open again,” she said.
Like most ground-level businesses along Pine Avenue, AMI Outfitters suffered storm surge-related water damage.
CHRISTMAS EVE
“A week before Thanksgiving, we had 4 feet of drywall cut out. We lost furnishings and we lost inventory. We weren’t starting from scratch, but it was pretty close. We appreciate the visitors and the local support we’ve been getting and it’s great to see the locals coming back in,” Hagey said.
Olive Oil Outpost owner Kelly Kari said, “We opened on Tuesday and today we’re just getting things more in order, having our doors open, welcoming everybody back and trying to get our rhythm back that we’ve had for the last 15 years. We took on about 2 feet of water. We had to have the drywall replaced and mold mitigation done. We had to buy new refrigeration equipment and new fixtures but it feels good to be open again. We specialize in olive oil, but we also have wine, cheeses, meats, pastas and pasta sauces,” she said.
She’s keeping her fingers crossed for the upcoming holiday and tourist seasons and she said, “Come on out to Pine Avenue.”
AMI Beach & Dog Supply owner
Janalee Gallagher said, “We got a foot-and-a-half to 2 feet of water –just enough to take out the drywall and the electrical. We lost most of our dog food and dog treats and our dog shirts, dog bandanas and those kinds of things absorbed a lot of the smell.
“We reopened two weeks before Thanksgiving and we were the first retail store open on Pine Avenue. I don’t know that it did us a lot of good, because there was no traffic, but we’re starting to see a lot of local folks coming out, which is fantastic. And I make sure to thank the people who are coming from out of town. I say thanks so much for not canceling your vacation. We’re glad to be here because some places aren’t coming back. We’re lucky.”
All children are invited to participate and will receive a gift Bring lawn chairs
*Chancel Choir, *Roser Ringers, Special Music, Carols, Scripture Readings, Message from Pastor Dirk and Lighting of the Candles! In person or watch online
JOE HENDRICKS | SUN
Lazy Turtle
BIKES: An annual labor of love
FROM PAGE 12
Bayside Church in west Bradenton provided Augostini with several bikes to restore.
“They have a program where they donate bikes to homeless people and people coming out of jail but they can’t use the children’s bikes. That’s why I have so many this year. I hope these kids enjoy the bikes and I’m sure they will. I just love to see kids outside riding their bikes,” Augostini said.
His annual efforts come with a cost: “It’s not cheap. The cost of tires and parts has gone out of sight. A tire for an adult bike used to be $5 to $10 and now they’re $15 to $20.”
Before loading the trailers, David Daniels shared a story that illustrates the importance of a bike to a kid. He said a young boy who wanted a donated bike last year didn’t get one. But despite his disappointment, the boy told Daniels that was OK. “It touched my heart,” Daniels
said. “I told his mom I was sorry we didn’t have any more bikes. I asked for their address and the next day I bought a bike and a helmet at Walmart and delivered it to their house and they were so thankful.”
When assessing this year’s donation, Daniels said, “These bikes are gorgeous. You have to have a heart to do this. You have to love kids and understand what a bicycle means to a kid.”
The donated bikes were given
away the following day at the Light of the World church’s annual Community Christmas Extravaganza.
“We usually have about 100150 families come out. We have other gifts from different places but the bike is like the ultimate prize. The joy is when you see the kids get the bike. Just to see the smiles on their face. Some parents can’t afford a bike and a bike is like a gift from heaven,” Daniels said.
After this trailer was full, a second trailer was partially filled with more bikes.
OUTDOORS
Marine debris cleanup successful
Reel Time
n Dec. 14, Suncoast Waterkeeper, Suncoast Aqua Ventures, the Sarasota Bay Estuary Program, the Tampa Bay Estuary Program, Tampa Bay Waterkeeper, the Organized Fishermen of Florida and Sarasota Bay Watch jointly worked to clean up marine debris in the waterways and mangroves in the Manatee River from Blenker Boatworks and Marina in Bradenton and in Terra Ceia Bay from Tropic Isles Marina in Palmetto.
Kayakers, the Suncoast Waterkeeper patrol boat, numerous boat owners and shoreline helpers collected over four dumpsters of rubble at the two locations. Each site hosted over three dozen volunteers who were provided
gloves, pickers and garbage bags to collect hurricane debris.
A large part of the debris consisted of destroyed docks and aluminum from lanais and pool cages as well as
all manner of items from residential areas that was washed into the mangroves from Hurricane Helene’s storm surge in September and Hurricane Milton’s winds in October.
Volunteers ranged in age from 16-80 and included a group of students from the Manatee School of The Arts. I was impressed with the willingness of the students and volunteers to get wet and team up to remove large sheets of aluminum and other detritus from the mud and mangroves.
Hurricanes, sewage spills and all the insults that local waters are exposed to should be a wake-up call to all of us who enjoy recreation on our local waters and understand their importance to the local economy. There are many ways that you can help. Write letters to your local representatives, congressmen and senators to let them know that you’ll consider their votes on water quality and resource protection when you vote. Attend local commission meetings, write opinion pieces and get involved with these nonprofits who work, day in and day out, to protect our marine resources. Check their websites and learn about upcoming events and how you can be a part of protecting what makes the Suncoast so special.
RUSTY CHINNIS
RUSTY CHINNIS | SUN
Volunteers at Tropic Isles Marina prepare for the day’s cleanup.
Red tide at background, very low concentrations
The red tide organism, Karenia brevis, was observed at background to very low concentrations in Manatee County by the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC) on Dec. 11. Very low concentrations were reported at the former location of the Rod & Reel Pier in Anna Maria and at the Longboat Pass Boat Ramp in Bradenton Beach. Background concentrations were reported at the Palma Sola Bay Bridge in Bradenton. No fish kills suspected to be related to red tide were reported to FWC's Fish Kill Hotline and other partners over the past week for Southwest Florida offshore of Manatee County, according to the FWC. To track statewide reports, visit: https://myfwc. com/research/redtide/statewide/ Call 866-300-9399 at anytime to hear a recording about red tide conditions throughout the state.
Center benefits from Chin-up Challenge
Left,
in an effort to raise
in more than $3,000
KRISTIN SWAIN | SUN
Above, Brad Moricz, 73, center back, thanks his cheering squad from Moss Builders who helped him get through the eight-hour Chin-up Challenge to raise money for The Center. Back row, from left, Ryan Moss, Moricz and Connor Morse. Front row, from left, Miles Moss, Heather Yovino, Greg Moss and Steven Levin.
Moricz completes 2,028 chin-ups
money for The Center of Anna Maria Island. The Chin-up Challenge brought
to The Center and was sponsored by Moss Builders.
REAL ESTATE
Storm repairs and remodeling
It may be hard for many of us on Florida’s west coast to find a positive outcome in the storms we just have lived through, but, as the expression goes, “When God closes a door, He opens a window.” Whether you believe in a higher deity or not, the damage that has been done to our property could open up an opportu nity and a path forward.
Homeowners are looking at some of the storm damage around their homes and are seeing updated landscaping or a jazzy new pool now as a possibility rather than just a pipe dream. Unless your property was unfortunately damaged beyond repair, the equity in your home is still there just waiting for you to turn it into cash, for not just a repair but a remodel.
Analysts are forecasting lower interest rates next year in the face of strong jobs data and saying it may just be time to tap into that for repairs and an added remodel. The lock in effect
Castles in the Sand
that is keeping people in their homes, many of which were refinanced during the pandemic at approximately 2.5% rates, has homeowners looking at their equity to finance repairs and renovations. Even at the higher interest rates, the volume of cash-out refinancings, where homeowners replace their current mortgage with a new loan and pocket the difference, was up 50% in September from a year earlier. Americans have more than $35 trillion in home equity, up 81% from the end of 2019, according to the Federal Reserve. That averages out to be about $400,000 per homeowner; no wonder everyone is dreaming of a
new bathroom and high-end kitchen. It’s nice to dream and tempting to turn your home into a cash register, but remember we’ve been down this road once before and it ended badly for many homeowners. The temptation to borrow $100,000 against your home’s equity can quickly turn into $150,000 if the rates drop. Be careful how you invest that money, make sure it goes for something that will either improve the value of your home or at least give you a good return on your dollar, and trips to Tahiti don’t count. So, what is a good return on your investment when doing renovations? I found a study by “Remodeling” magazine, a trade publication, on this year’s national averages related to renovations. For a reason that frankly escapes me, garage door replacement is at the top of the list with the cost recouped at 193.9%, next up was entry door replacement - that I at least understand - with a cost recoup of 188.1%. A minor
kitchen remodel will recoup 96.1% and a midrange bath remodel recouped 73.3%. Window replacement recouped 67.1% and roofing replacement with asphalt shingles recouped 56.9%. There is a very extensive list if you care to read it all, but this gives you an idea of some of the more popular remodels and/or repairs.
Finally, if you filed an insurance claim for your storm damage, that refund could help you not to just repair the damage but to make improvements. A friend of mine was able to cover the cost of a brand-new tile roof after Hurricane Ian two years ago with the insurance refund, a project they were planning on doing before the hurricane.
We all need a path forward after this hurricane season, so if it looks like a new kitchen and it walks like a new kitchen and it talks like a new kitchen, it could very well be a new kitchen - go for it.
LOUISE BOLGER
RING: Anna Maria ‘Rings in the Recovery’
Hometown Desserts owner Cindy Tutterow and her employee, Kiersten Blandon, had a table set up outside the dessert shop, next to a pink Christmas tree.
“Today we’re just taking Christmas orders and selling gift certificates and our pretty coffee mugs. We’re going to try to open next Saturday, the 21st,” Tutterow said. “We make all kinds of cakes, including our best seller, key lime coconut cake. We also make pies, cookies, decorated Christmas cookies and some gluten-free items too.”
Blandon said, “I’m excited. I miss working and seeing everybody coming into the shop.”
Shiny Fish Emporium owner Rebecca Preston reopened for Thanksgiving weekend after about 3 feet of water flooded the emporium and damaged her inventory, drywall and displays.
“It’s been quiet, but weekends are better and we are seeing some tourists,” she said.
When describing the emporium’s offerings, Preston said, “A little bit of wonderment. Resort wear, Christmas ornaments, comic books, crafts, European toys, sunglasses from Paris and artisan jewelry.”
Looking ahead to the holidays and the hoped-for peak tourist season, she said, “I’ve had people reach out and say they’re excited to come back and they’re excited the Island is coming back so quickly.”
Imari Deadrick was part of a group of visitors from Detroit who were vacationing in Bradenton while celebrating Gabriel Vasser’s 12th birthday. They took a day trip to Anna Maria Island on Saturday and enjoyed lunch at the BeachHouse restaurant in Bradenton Beach before heading to Anna Maria, where they painted sand dollars while sitting outside Shiny Fish Emporium.
When asked if they had any concerns about their vacation plans, Deadrick said, “We were a little bit nervous, but we have social media now and that kept us updated on how it was looking
down here. This is our first trip here and it looks really good. We’re checking off everything we had planned on our itinerary and we leave tomorrow.”
Kelly Blanco and her daughter, Harper, also sat outside Shiny Fish Emporium painting sand dollars. They traveled from New York, were staying in Tampa for a soccer tournament and decided to take a day trip to Anna Maria.
“I’ve never been to Anna Maria. I love it. We’ll have to come back and stay with our whole family,”
Kelly said.
Pizza Social owner Andrew Simonetti said they reopened the Sunday before Thanksgiving after suffering about 2 feet of water intrusion that damaged their equipment, coolers and the electrical components in the pizza oven. He and his manager did all the restoration work themselves to avoid being on someone else’s timeline.
“It feels good to be open and running a pizzeria again,” Simonetti said. “Business isn’t what it was, but we’ll build back up as more vacation rental homes
become available. And we offer a year-round discount to locals. Let us know you’re a local and we’ll apply a discount to your order.”
The Sushi Ramen restaurant on Gulf Drive is now open and during Saturday’s event, owner Woody Tajawandee and employees Ton Ton Chueakuna and Nong Klainthind set up a table in front of Lazy Turtle Beach Rentals on Pine Avenue and served free samples of chicken curry on rice.
Lazy Turtle Beach Rentals and Anna Maria Island Tours owner Tom “T-Bone” Anderson said he
reopened soon after Hurricane Milton.
“Our building was just high enough that we’ve been able to be open the whole time,” he said. “We had a good Thanksgiving week but the lead up to Christmas is always slow. We’re looking to be busier the week after Christmas.”
Looking ahead to the peak tourist season, he said, “We’ll be back on track just like every other year.”
POINTE
JOE HENDRICKS | SUN dessert shop, next to a pink Christmas tree.
Bradenton Beach ends local state of emergency declaration
BY LESLIE LAKE SUN CORRESPONDENT | llake@amisun.com
BRADENTON BEACH – The Hurricane Helene state of emergency declaration for the city ended at a special emergency commission meeting on Dec. 4.
“I think we’re at the point now where we can let the emergency declaration go,” Police Chief and Public Works Director John Cosby said. “We’re not really dealing with an emergency anymore. We are now purely in recovery.”
The declaration had been updated every seven days at special city commission meetings.
“The only thing that will change by stopping is, moving forward, I will no longer be the lead for everything that’s going on,” Cosby said. “I’ll go
PINES:
back to managing the departments that I manage and the department heads will go back to managing their departments.”
Commissioner Scott Bear asked Cosby if ending the emergency declaration would impact the city’s FEMA eligibility.
“Our main thing for the emergency declaration is the continuity of government,” Cosby said. “Everything came to me or the mayor without having to go to the commission for every little thing.”
Cosby said city projects are eligible for FEMA assistance.
“This has nothing to do with FEMA eligibility at all. We needed that portion when we declared for Category B, which was the law enforcement overtime, the use of law enforcement
equipment and public works,” he said. “That’s for emergency protective measures, obviously we needed to get that so nobody got hurt. That’s all been captured. I don’t think we have anything else.”
Final sand and debris pickup ended on Dec. 4.
“I don’t see anything else coming out, but if you’re more comfortable for a few more weeks of the structure we’ve been using, that’s fine with me,” Cosby said.
Mayor John Chappie said he was in favor of moving forward and going on to the next phase.
Commissioners unanimously passed the motion to end the City of Bradenton Beach declaration of a local state of emergency for Hurricane Helene effective Dec. 4.
Given green light to repair
according to the letter. Permits include, but are not limited to, structural repairs to the foundation or building envelope, including roof repairs, electrical repairs, plumbing repairs and mechanical repairs.
“At this time, the data suggests that costs to perform repairs and restoration will not constitute a substantial damage repair,” Cushing’s letter stated.
Cushing, former city building official Steve Gilbert and a team of 20 inspectors provided by the state conducted the inspections.
To track and document costs, a Floodplain Development Permit application, including building permits as needed, must be submitted to the city building department, Cushing’s letter stated.
The Pines mobile homes had varying levels of water intrusion during the storm surge from Hurricane Helene in September.
At an Oct. 17 city commission meeting, Pines residents had been told that FEMA guidelines related to any water covering the floors caused by a hurricane deemed their structures as having major damage. Based on those guidelines, and prior to interior inspections, they were deemed substantially damaged and subject to a city floodplain ordinance requiring elevation of the mobile homes.
”After the city’s initial reaction to what FEMA representatives said, the city has been fair, especially Darin Cushing,” Pines mobile homeowner Elayne Armaniaco said on Dec. 13. “Darin has been an advocate for fairness in the FEMA process.”
On Dec. 13, a representative for Pines ownership, Pines Park Investors LLC, had no comment on the matter.
Pines homeowner Ryan Pfahler said on Dec. 5 that he and others were hesitant to move forward with repairs until they receive guarantees from the park ownership about the continued existence of the park, along with having other issues addressed.
One of those issues included parking.
Owned by Shawn Kaleta, one of the owners of the Pines Trailer Park, the parking lot at 201 First St. N., used by close to half of the Pines residents, was recently converted
to a public paid parking lot. Those Pines residents’ annual paid parking passes, at a cost of $750 a year, will expire on Dec. 31.
“Many of the residents currently have no parking available,” Pfahler wrote in a Dec. 13 text message to The Sun. “It appears that the LLC park owners have converted the only parking lot into a public pay-by-the-hour parking lot, further inconveniencing residents and creating logistical challenges.”
Pfahler said on Dec. 13 that he is awaiting clarification about the parking issue and said other issues at the park also need to be addressed.
“There is no park manager in place, nor has any plan been communicated regarding who residents should address for concerns or emergencies,” he wrote and he is asking park ownership for the following:
• “Provide immediate clarification on who is managing the park and how residents can raise concerns or issues;
• Clearly communicate the landowner’s long-term plans for the park;
• Provide written guarantees or commitments regarding lot rent stability and park longevity;
• Address plans for repairing and maintaining shared facilities and services;
• Restore resident parking or provide an alternative parking solution; and
• Commit to consistent, transparent communication regarding park developments and resident concerns.” FROM PAGE 1
LESLIE LAKE | SUN
Pines Trailer Park mobile home owners now have authorization from the city building official to move forward with hurricane-related repairs.
RING: Anna Maria ‘Rings in the Recovery’
FROM PAGE 21
The multi-vendor Pineapple Marketplace reopened on Dec. 11, and Reclaimed Soul vendors Sam (Samantha) and Jim Heil were there Saturday.
“We’re just excited to be open again. I think we look good considering how we looked a couple months ago,” Sam said, noting some vendors are still bringing back their inventory.
Jim said he and AMI Guy vendor Mark McConnell replaced all the water-damaged display walls that also help separate the vendors.
Next door, the floors inside Beach Bums are being replaced but their golf cart, bike and kayak rentals and limited retail sales are still taking place out on the front deck. Manager Kathy Manning said they hope to be back inside again by Christmas.
The Anna Maria General Store, Dips Ice Cream and gRub Tropical BBQ are open. At the nearby Bayview Plaza, Two Sides of Nature and AMI Cool Beans have reopened and Two Scoops ice cream will reopen this week. The neighboring Waterfront restaurant also recently reopened. At the other end of Pine Avenue, North Shore Café, Poppo’s Taqueria and The Donut Experiment have reopened.
BEYOND PINE AVENUE
than Helene, so we lost tons of inventory,” John said.
Around the corner, The White Egret home interior store at 10006 Gulf Drive owned by Barbara and John Jaeger reopened Saturday. They also own the Egret’s Nest clothing boutique next door.
The White Egret lost its roof during Hurricane Milton.
“All the merchandise we had was put upstairs because we thought we’d get a bigger surge
On a brighter note, he said, “We’ve been open since 10 o’clock today. It feels great. We scrambled for a good month trying to get this place ready to go. We were going to try to open the Egret’s Nest first, but the roof leaked during the last rainstorm. We hope to reopen that in January.”
Director of Operations Pamela Kimmey said, “We are thrilled to be here. It’s been a great day. We have a great team that worked tirelessly to get it to look like this today. We combined the two stores for now, so we have clothing, jewelry, handbags, home interior items, artwork, lamps,
gift cards and all our Christmas items. People come in year-round to take a Christmas ornament home as a token of their vacation.”
The reopened businesses along Gulf Drive also include the Nomad Collection, Bortell’s Lounge, Harry’s Grill, the Mademoiselle Paris restaurant, The Porch restaurant, the Beach Hut convenience store and Slim’s Place, with Ginny’s and Jane E’s Café reopening on Wednesday, Dec. 18. The Grand Pavilion at Sandbar, at the end of Spring Avenue, has also reopened.
JOE HENDRICKS | SUN
Above, Pineapple Marketplace vendor Sam Heil is pleased with the progress made. Left, White Egret employees Pamela Kimmey, Cindy Wright and Jackie Wurster are thrilled to be open again.
Sato Real Estate survives play-in round
BY MONICA SIMPSON SPECIAL TO THE SUN
ANNA MARIA – With 10 teams in the league, The Center of Anna Maria Island’s co-ed adult soccer league started the postseason with a play-in round with four teams last Wednesday night.
Two teams, Gulf Drive Café and Sato Real Estate, came out on top, earning their spot in the quarterfinal round of playoffs.
With field conditions unsafe, the Wednesday night game schedule was pushed, resulting in two of the four first round games played Thursday night. Moss Builders and Bubble Binz earned their spots in the semifinals.
came after two halves of regulation
play. Ending in a 2-2 tie, the accurate shots of the Moss Builders players could not be saved by goalie Robb Marshall.
Pool America’s Marshall had seven saves in the game, while counterpart Ryan Moss made eight stops. The scoring of Chris Klotz and Lucas Wilson for Pool America kept the team in the game, sending players to the line for penalty kicks.
Stephen Adair and Greg Moss eluded Marshall in regulation play to help with the Moss Builder win.
Team Bubble Binz had an easier go of it against the AMI Dolphin Tours squad, winning 5-2. Matt Staggs and Mark Long each had two goals for the Bubble team, while James Knowles and team captain Nate Welch each put
points on the scoreboard.
In addition to his goals, Long protected his team’s net with four saves. Goalie duties were shared by Tyler Bekkerus with three saves and Robbie Fellowes with two stops for AMI Dolphin Tours.
Teammate Selena Gonzalez-Salinas was credited with two goals in the team’s final game of the season.
Wednesday night’s quarterfinal games will put the top-ranked Solid Rock Construction team facing team Gulf Drive Café. In the last first round game, Ross Built Custom Homes plays the Sato Real Estate team.
To close out the fall season, the semifinal games and championship match will be played on Thursday, Dec. 19.
Additional stop signs requested
SUBMITTED
Bob Rowley holds on to the winner's trophy on Dec. 11 at AMI Horseshoes in Anna Maria after posting the only 3-0 record during pool play. Two teams met in the final on Dec. 14 and Tom Farrington cruised to victory after a 25-5 win over Adin Shank and Rod Bussey, ending it in style with a double-ringer.
Ladies’ golf in gear at Key Royale Club
DEC. 3 - LOW NET SCORE
First Place - Jana Samuels, 32
Second Place - Helen Pollock, 33 Third Place - Pam Lowry, 36
Winny Hamdan chipped in on Hole #3 and Sue Wheeler chipped in on Hole #7.
DEC. 10 - LOW NET SCORE
First Place - Ceal Barry, Gloria LaDue and Jana Samuels tied, 33
Second Place - Nina McSparren and Terry Westby tied, 34
Ceil Barry chipped in and birdied hole #2 and Brenda Solleveld did the same on hole #6.
Citing safety concerns, Manatee County Sheriff’s Office Sgt. Brett Getman would like stop signs installed at three Anna Maria intersections: North Bay Boulevard and Hibiscus Street, North Shore Drive and Cypress Avenue and North Shore Drive and Palm Avenue. On Dec. 12, Getman asked the Anna Maria Planning and Zoning Commission to consider recommending city commission approval of his stop sign installation requests. Getman said stop signs placed at the North Bay/ Hibiscus intersection would slow traffic near Bayfront Park. He said the North Shore/Cypress intersection is located in an area that includes a partially blind curve, and the North Shore/ Palm intersection is the only North Shore Drive intersection south of Pine Avenue that doesn’t have a four-way stop requirement and a traffic accident recently occurred there. The planning board members agreed to consider Getman’s request after collectively viewing those intersections during a publicly noticed golf cart/walking tour of the city the board members are scheduled to take on Jan. 15. During the tour, the board members will also view and discuss visibility triangles and parking concerns, loading and unloading zones, existing commercial signage and other board-related matters. Serving as a planning board meeting, the tour will be open to the public and the media and transportation will be provided.
JOE HENDRICKS | SUN
The North Bay/Hibiscus intersection is located near Bayfront Park.
JOE HENDRICKS | SUN
The North Shore/Cypress intersection has a partially blind curve.
JOE HENDRICKS | SUN
There are currently no stop signs at the North Shore/Palm intersection.
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
BOATS
FIRST, I WISH ALL MY ISLAND FRIENDS WELL. This to shall pass. Yes, boats are selling. Yes, we will buy damaged boats. Yes, we need boats as folks are getting insurance checks. Dave Struber/Owner 24 Years, Islandboatsales. net-941-288-3489
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
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
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
A.R.E. Renovation’s WHOLESALE KITCHEN CABINETS DIRECT., Remodeling, Bathrooms. Trim Flooring and Decks Tile and more Free quote, references available. Lic. # CRC.1334176 941-4653045.
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
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
SHORTDOG TREE & LAWN SERVICE Free Estimates. Remove trees; trim palms, yard work, hauling everything. Call 941-746-3373 or 941-730-2694
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
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
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
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
BRADENTON CONDO FOR SALE end unit 55+ community. Pet friendly. Split 2BR/2BA. Walk in shower in Master, newer paint, laminate flooring, white travertine tile, new blinds, bonus room, W/D, central air with heat, carport, patio. Close to heated pool & community building. 8 miles from AMI. Available now, immediate possession. $179,900. Call 616648-1648 or 616-340-5669
RENTALS: ANNUAL
ON ISLAND CONDO Available immediately for up to one year! Ready to move in. Great Value. Beautiful Upgraded 2BR/2BA Incredible water View! Waterfront Patio, Pool, tennis, pickle, walk to beach. Private carport. Excellent Rental terms. Owner/ renter. Please Call or email for details. drchristines@ yahoo.com or 570-2390431
2BR/2BA BRIGHT RENOVATED CONDO - Perico Bay Club, minutes from AMI beach - pool/hot tub/tennis/gym/ parking/ Security gate. $2500/ month Starting January 25 Call 952-818-4685
ANNUAL RENTAL BRADENTON BEACH 1BR/1BA condo. Block to beach, large pool, parking. $3000/mo. 6 month minimum. Call 941-447-3071
BRADENTON BEACH LONGTERM RENTAL 1BR/1BA Cute UPSTAIRS apartment near Bridge Street. Furnished: $2,150 monthly Unfurnished: $1,950 Includes water/ trash 941-447-6887
NEWLY RENOVATED, FULLY FURNISHED
3BR/2BA in Holmes Beach on Anna Maria Island. Steps to beach, includes all utilities, cable, internet, trash and landscaping. 6 month lease available January 1. Call 941-220-8300.
HOLMES BEACH, 2100 sq f house , 3 min to the beach
3BR/3BA 2 car garage , 5950$ monthly 514-7304825 kondiloveroutis@ gmail.com
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
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 352-339-3478. Merry Christmas
