Anna Maria Island Sun February 22, 2023

No parking signs on scenic highway debated

Tourism up, record set

The latest record is in, with more than 1 million overnight visitors to the county last year.

BY JASON SCHAFFER SUN CORRESPONDENT | jschaffer@amisun.com

BRADENTON – As the busy tourist season approaches full swing, Manatee County’s tourism consultant delighted tourism officials with a milestone set in 2022.

“When we look at the entire calendar year, we see that for the first time ever, we exceeded over a million overnight commercial lodging visitors,” said Ann Wittine, of Tampa-based Research Data Services. “We also had a first time ever economic impact of over $1.5 billion for the year. That’s a 20% increase and a 50% increase from pre-COVID 2019.”

Wittine presented her state of tourism update to the Manatee County

Tourist Development Council (TDC) on Feb. 13, featuring the latest available statistics related to the tourism industry in the county.

In December 2022, total visitors, number of room nights and economic impact were all up from December 2021, with 73,300 visitors (7.5%), 186,200 room nights (5.8%) and $91,956,200 in economic impact (14.5%).

“We gather this information in a number of different ways,” Wittine said. “We have face to face interviewers who are out talking to restaurant and lodging visitors for random surveys. We also talk to management companies, condo associations and others to make sure we get length of stay and party size, so we can calculate these estimates.”

SEE TOURISM, PAGE 11

BY JOE HENDRICKS

SUN CORRESPONDENT | jhendricks@amisun.com

BRADENTON BEACH –The city’s Scenic WAVES Committee is concerned about the visual appearance of 61 new “No parking on right of way by order of D.O.T.” signs recently installed along Gulf Drive South near Coquina Beach, Leffis Key and the Coquina boat ramps.

The signs were installed by the Florida Department of Transportation (FDOT) at the request of Bradenton Beach Police Chief John Cosby, who asked for the signs a year ago. The police department shares the responsibility of enforcing FDOT’s longstanding prohibition on parking in the stateowned rights of way along Gulf Drive/SR 789.

The Scenic WAVES Committee consists of citizens and liaisons from FDOT, Manatee County and other agencies. The committee advises the city commission on landscaping and beautification efforts in Bradenton Beach. The committee also initiates and conducts landscaping and beautification projects.

The entire stretch of Gulf Drive/SR 789 in Bradenton Beach is designated by the state as a scenic highway and the committee also serves as the city’s scenic highway board. SEE SIGNS, PAGE

Bill filed to build beach parking garage

Rep. Will Robinson Jr. filed a bill on Monday to build a parking garage at Manatee Beach in Holmes Beach.

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

HOLMES BEACH – Just like the traffic headed to Anna Maria Island on holidays, an effort by Florida legislators to build a parking garage at Manatee Beach is inching forward.

House Bill 947 was filed on Monday by Rep. Will Robinson Jr., who represents Manatee County, including Anna Maria Island. If the bill passes, it will allow Manatee County commissioners to erect a three-story parking garage

at the county-owned beach with no approvals from city leaders needed.

Previous plans mentioned by legislators were for a four-story garage, which would exceed the height restrictions in the city.

Though parking garages were never an allowable land use in Holmes Beach, city commissioners voted in 2022 to formally disallow multi-level parking facilities. At a meeting where that ordinance was discussed, Manatee County Commissioner Kevin Van Ostenbridge warned commissioners against the action, stating that he had planned to present an application to the city to build a parking garage on the property.

SEE BILL, PAGE 16

JOE HENDRICKS | SUN

More than 60 new “no parking” signs line both sides of Gulf Drive South at the south end of Bradenton Beach.

Landscaping elements may eventually replace some of the new signs, but no changes are expected in the immediate future.

Petition calls for Ambrose to return to beach market

know anything about it until she told me about it at the new market last week.”

The resurgence of interest in the market comes following the Feb. 7 resignation of Manatee County Administrator Dr. Scott Hopes.

would do to them,” Ambrose said. “That’s what really hurt. Many of the vendors depended on the market as their only source of income. This really hurt a lot of vendors. There’s hope for them now.”

a scheduled opening date of last Nov. 1 but was delayed due to preparations having been impacted by Hurricane Ian, according to a county press release.

BY LESLIE LAKE SUN CORRESPONDENT | llake@amisun.com

BRADENTON BEACH - Six months after Manatee County terminated Nancy Ambrose’s contract to run the Coquina Beach market, a petition is circulating to bring it back under her direction.

The Change.org petition, “Bring back the Beach Market at Coquina Beach under the management of Nancy Ambrose,” had more than 2,100 signatures as of Feb. 17.

“One of the vendors started this,” Ambrose said on Feb. 14. “I didn’t

“For those that do not know Dr. Hopes, the person that terminated the market resigned on Tuesday,” Ambrose wrote on the Where is the Market? Facebook page. “So there is HOPE to return now that Hopes is gone. Hope to see you soon at the Beach Market at Coquina Beach!!!”

Hopes is seen among vendors as the driving force behind the county takeover of the market. Ambrose, who was the director for the Coquina Beach Market for the past decade, was ousted by the county in August.

“He never once mentioned the vendors and what closing the market

Ambrose said following the market closure in August, she had to change her phone number after getting bombarded by disappointed market shoppers.

“I was getting phone calls from tourists and snowbirds who were asking me about the market,” she said.

The market was good for the local economy, she said.

“People from out of the area would come here just for the market,” Ambrose said. “Then they would go to a restaurant for dinner or maybe stay overnight. Those people aren’t coming now.”

The county-run market initially had

“As crews have been deployed around the county to clean up and repair other parks properties, the site prep and rehab work to get the new site (further south on Coquina Beach) ready have been put on hold temporarily,” according to the county website. “The official opening date has been delayed from the originally planned November 1.”

The county is moving forward with plans to hire a new market director.

“A Request for Proposal (RFP) to engage a Market Manager is being prepared,” Manatee County Government Information Outreach Manager Bill Logan said on Feb. 15 in an email. “There is no comment on who may respond to that RFP.”

As Manatee County moves forward with plans to hire a new market director, a petition is calling for the previous director to be rehired.

IN BRIEF

Bradenton Beach ordering new police boat

The Bradenton Beach City Commission authorized Police Chief John Cosby on Feb. 16 to order a new police boat to be purchased from Ingman Marine for $110,000. The 24-foot center console boat will be purchased using county commission-approved West Coast Inland Navigation District funds. The new boat will replace the current police boat that has of late required many repairs. As was the case with the existing boat, the new boat will be stored on the boatlift near the Bridge Street Pier. The police department uses its boat to patrol the unmanaged anchorage south of the pier. In recent years, those patrols have resulted in several derelict or nearly derelict vessels leaving that area.

Carson joins Anna Maria staff

Jennifer Carson has been hired to serve as the city of Anna Maria’s new senior administrative assistant. Carson will begin working for the city on Tuesday, Feb. 21. She’ll work the front desk at city hall and perform various administrative functions.

Pine Avenue improvements on Thursday’s agenda

The Anna Maria City Commission will meet on Thursday, Feb. 23 at 6 p.m. After general public comment, Mayor Dan Murphy and/or traffic engineer Gerry Traverso will provide an update on Reimagining Pine Avenue safety improvements. The commission will then be asked to authorize the mayor to sign a state funding agreement with FDOT for the improvements. The consent agenda includes a special event permit request for The Vintage Flea market on March 12. To participate in Thursday’s meeting by phone, call 1-929-2056099 and enter the meeting ID: 85392000280.

City wants to clear alleys

The reclamation and reestablishment of city-owned alleys has been discussed for many years in Bradenton Beach.

BY JOE HENDRICKS SUN CORRESPONDENT | jhendricks@amisun.com

BRADENTON BEACH – City officials want to reestablish some city-owned alleys that are currently obstructed by landscaping, equipment, debris and other obstacles.

During a Feb. 16 city commission meeting, Building Official Steve Gilbert said the first step is to get cost estimates to survey each alley to help determine where the city-owned alleys are located in relation to the privately-owned properties that abut them and how much it will cost to reestablish them.

“In the meantime, we can tell the folks that we are getting surveys done and they will get marked and eventually they’re going to get a notice to move their stuff out. I think you’ll find that some folks will move their things voluntarily when they find out you’re actually spending money to fix it,” Gilbert told the commission.

Gilbert said he and Public Works Director Tom Woodard have discussed reclaiming cityowned alleys many times during the past 10 years.

Woodard told the commission Manatee County recently had a water main break and the repair crew’s efforts were hindered by an inability to access the break area through an obstructed alley.

Mayor John Chappie said the water main break occurred in the alley between 24th and 25th Streets North and Avenues A and B.

Chappie suggested the alley between 25th and 26th Streets North as a potential starting place for the latest alley reestablishment efforts.

Commissioner Jake Spooner said reestablishing the alley between 23rd and 24th Streets North would provide a nice walkway for pedestrians.

Some residents and property owners along the 2500 block of Gulf Drive North want this alley cleared and reopened. Below left, the city-owned alley between 25th and 26th Streets North on the 2500 block of Gulf Drive North is obstructed by a large, grass-covered mound. Below right, these palm trees obstruct a portion of the alley between 25th and 26th Streets North along the 2500 block of Gulf Drive North.

Chappie noted there are no funds budgeted in the current fiscal year for alley reclamation projects. Gilbert said there might be enough funds to clear one alley during the current fiscal year, depending on the estimated cost. Chappie said additional funds will need to be budgeted for additional alley clearing projects in future fiscal years.

“If we’re going to do this, it needs to be notified,” Woodard said. “That’s the first step. The people encroaching in the alley that are causing the problems are aware of what they’ve done. I’ve already been threatened. I had some guy pull a gun on me.”

Commissioner Jan Vosburgh said, “We’ve been talking about alleys for quite a few years. People are already anticipating we’re going to do something. It’s not going to be a surprise.”

In reference to a previous alley reclamation discussion

that took place last November, Woodard said some residents and property owners along the 2500 block of Gulf Drive North want that alley cleared and reopened.

During that November discussion, it was noted that a large grass-covered mound is blocking most of the alley behind the vacation rental/resort structure located at 2503 Gulf Drive North. Another portion of that alley is blocked by palm trees.

A visit to the alley in November also revealed a construction dumpster blocking the north end of the alley.

Commissioner Ralph Cole said he wants to know how much it will cost to reestablish the alleys before moving forward with those efforts. He then made a motion authorizing Gilbert to get cost estimates for the alley surveys and the commission unanimously supported his motion.

JOE HENDRICKS | SUN

The current police boat will soon be replaced by a new police boat.

JOE HENDRICKS | SUN

JOE HENDRICKS | SUN JOE HENDRICKS | SUN

Family seeks missing memorial bench plank

planks that went missing as a result of the accident have been recovered, but a third inscribed plank remained missing as of Feb. 19.

BY JOE HENDRICKS SUN CORRESPONDENT | jhendricks@amisun.com

ANNA MARIA – Chris and Violet Morton seek the community’s help in locating an inscribed plank that was part of a memorial bench located on the Rod & Reel Pier.

The bench memorializes Adrienne Rae Bertrand, Violet Morton’s daughter and Chris Morton’s stepdaughter.

On Feb. 11, an elderly man drove his vehicle onto the Rod & Reel Pier and struck the memorial bench located about a third of a way down the pier. The vehicle did not fall into the water and was later removed from the pier. The driver was not injured and was believed to have experienced a medical incident at the time of the accident, according to a source with knowledge of what transpired.

Two of the three laser-inscribed

The top plank that remains missing says, “Like the sun dances on the waves, your memory shall…”

Continuing the inscription, the middle plank says, “...forever dance in our hearts. We love & miss you, Mommy & Chris.”

The bottom plank says, “Adrienne Rae Bertrand, May 30, 1990 – April 19, 2017.”

“Manatee County Sheriff’s deputies found the middle board on Bean Point and the bottom board was found by the city of Holmes Beach on 81st Street. We’re still missing the top board. We’re trying to get the bench rebuilt and we need that board,” Morton said of the bench that memorializes his late stepdaughter.

“If someone finds it, please contact us and we’ll come and pick it up,” he said. Morton can be contacted via email at hunterdogbrown@yahoo.com.

Two of the three inscribed memorial bench planks have been recovered, but a third remains missing.

CHRIS MORTON | SUBMITTED

Violet Morton is shown here alongside the pier bench that memorializes her late daughter.

EDITORIAL

Everywhere signs

In yet another example of why Florida is known as one of the most dysfunctional states in the union, consider the 61 new signs on Gulf Drive at Coquina Beach.

It would be easy to say that the left hand did not know what the right hand was doing when one department of state government – the Florida Department of Transportation – installed the no-parking signs on the state-designated scenic highway.

It would be easy, except that FDOT also administers the state’s Scenic Highway Program.

Did anyone at FDOT think to ask whether the Bradenton Beach Police Department’s request for signs on the scenic highway might possibly call for an interdepartmental email before making the approach to the beach look as bad as it could possibly look, on both sides of the road?

At the very least, FDOT – and the police department, for that matter – should have consulted the Bradenton Beach Scenic WAVES committee, if not the city commissioners, about the plan.

In what could be perceived to be an argument in favor of the consolidation of the Island’s three cities, city officials in Holmes Beach were taking down no parking signs right about the time the new parking signs went up in Bradenton Beach.

They justifiably cited sign pollution as the reason.

So why does Bradenton Beach law enforcement need the signs to enforce no-parking laws, as they claim, if Holmes Beach law enforcement does not?

Yes, Coquina Beach is a madhouse, more so than Manatee Beach, which is patrolled by Holmes Beach police. But there are better ways to address the parking problem.

The Scenic WAVES Committee suggested last week taking out the signs and installing bollards and rope, or planting landscape beds.

Flowers or signs? Easy choice.

But what about using all 61 holes to plant trees to discourage parking on the right of way? For the amount of money spent on installing the signs, that stretch of Bradenton Beach could have supplied 61 trees to the city’s next application for a Tree City USA designation.

If necessary, hang the no parking signs on the trees.

Sign pollution is not what the volunteers of the Scenic WAVES committee had in mind when they worked to make Gulf Drive a scenic highway.

“WAVES” stands for Waterfronts: Accessible, Viable, Ecological, Sustainable. The signs are not.

The Anna Maria Island

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LETTERS TO THE EDITOR

Island Gallery West moving off AMI

Island Gallery West has been operating in the same location at Holmes Beach on Anna Maria Island for 33 years.

During that time we have become an integral part of the Island and Manatee County. We have been voted “The Island’s Favorite Art Gallery” 13 times, and most recently awarded the prestigious “Best Business 2023” by the Island Chamber of Commerce. Our final day will be Friday 10th March and will include an evening

Got an opinion, a complaint or a compliment?

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Artwalk with our featured artist, Terri Westbrook - we would love to see you. We will miss our Island home dearly so please join us to celebrate the past and toast the future! Don’t miss the opportunity to come and visit us during our last three weeks on the Island. We will be operating with regular hoursTuesday through Sunday from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Some of our artists will be offering special prices on their work at the gallery.

We are excited to move to our new location in downtown Bradenton which will open during May

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

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2023. Full details and opening date to be announced - please check our website, social media and newsletter for updates!

During our transition period, you can view the gallery online and purchase artwork through our website, www.islandgallerywest.com. We would like to thank our loyal customers, local and seasonal visitors and friends of the gallery for your support over the years and look forward to welcoming you to our new location!

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

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Family-owned since 2000

Island Gallery West Holmes Beach

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.

Feb. 23, 6 p.m. – City Commission meeting

March 9, 2 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.

March 1, 9:30 a.m. – Community Redevelopment Agency meeting

March 1, 1 p.m. – Planning and Zoning Board meeting

March 2, 6 p.m. – 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.

Feb. 28, 5 p.m. – City Commission meeting with work session to follow

March 1, 10 a.m. – Parks and Beautification meeting

March 1, 5 p.m. – Planning Commission meeting

March 8, 10 a.m. – Clean Water Ad-hoc Committee meeting

EVENTS

WEDNESDAY, FEB. 22

Mah-jongg for beginners, Island Branch Library, 5701 Marina Drive, Holmes Beach, 1 p.m. Town hall with Manatee County Commissioner George Kruse, Island Branch Library, 5701 Marina Drive, Holmes Beach, 6 p.m.

THURSDAY, FEB. 23

Seaside Quilters, Island Branch Library, 5701 Marina Drive, Holmes Beach, 10 a.m. Green Explorers: Searching for Symmetry, Neal Preserve, 12301 Manatee Ave. W., Bradenton, 10 a.m.

Sunshine Stitchers knit and crochet, Island Branch Library, 5701 Marina Drive, Holmes Beach, 2 p.m.

Friends of the Island Library

Lecture and Travel Series: Florida Studio Theater, Roser Church fellowship hall, 512 Pine Ave., Anna Maria, 2 p.m.

AMI Chamber Business Card Exchange and Meet the Directors, The Center, 407 Magnolia Ave., Anna Maria, 5 p.m., $5 for members or $10 for non-members Thursdays in Paradise Stroll featuring local art, music and food, Bridge Street, Bradenton Beach, 5-8 p.m.

Mote Education Outreach Center volunteer info session, Island Branch Library, 5701 Marina Drive, Holmes Beach, 6:30 p.m.

FRIDAY, FEB. 24

OneBlood blood mobile donations, Island Branch Library, 5701 Marina Drive, Holmes Beach, 9 a.m.

Explore Nature: Tower Talks, Robinson Preserve, observation tower, 1704 99th St. N.W., Bradenton, 9 a.m.

Rummage Sale, St. Bernard Catholic Church activity center, 248 S. Harbor Drive, Holmes Beach, 9 a.m. to 1 p.m.

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

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

SATURDAY, FEB. 25

Robinson Runners, Robinson Preserve, 1704 99th St. N.W., Bradenton, 7 a.m. Pancake breakfast, Roser Church, 512 Pine Ave., Anna Maria, 8-11 a.m.

Mornings at the NEST, Robinson Preserve Mosaic Nest, 840 Ninth Ave. N.W., Bradenton, 9 a.m. to noon

Hands-only CPR with West Manatee Fire Rescue, Island Branch Library, 5701 Marina Drive, Holmes Beach, 9 a.m.

Master Gardener Tour, Perico Preserve, 11700 Manatee Ave. W., Bradenton, 9 a.m.

Rummage Sale, St. Bernard Catholic Church activity center, 248 S. Harbor Drive, Holmes Beach, 9 a.m. to 1 p.m.

Grand Funk Railroad, The Center, 407 Magnolia Ave., Anna Maria, 6 p.m. doors open, 7 p.m. opening act. Tickets on sale at www.centerami.org/events

Starry Night Astronomy, Robinson Preserve expansion parking lot, 840 Ninth Ave. N.W., Bradenton, 6:30 p.m.

MONDAY, FEB. 27

Library conversations, Island Branch Library, 5701 Marina Drive, Holmes Beach, 11 a.m.

TUESDAY, FEB. 28

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

Family storytime, 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.

Rotary Club of Anna Maria Island meeting, Slicker’s Eatery, 12012 Cortez Road W., Bradenton, 11:30 a.m.

Duplicate bridge, Episcopal Church of the Annunciation, 4408 Gulf Drive, Holmes Beach, noon

One-on-one tech help, Island Branch Library, 5701 Movies in the Park, “Field of Dreams,” City Pier Park, 103 N. Bay Blvd. Anna Maria, 6:30 p.m.

WEDNESDAY, MARCH 1

Creative Aging: Watercolors, Island Branch Library, 5701 Marina Drive, Holmes Beach, 10 a.m.

THURSDAY, MARCH 2

Sunshine Stitchers Knit and Crochet, Island Branch Library, 5701 Marina Drive, Holmes Beach, 2 p.m.

FRIDAY, MARCH 3

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.

Paper crafting for adults, Island Branch Library, 5701 Marina Drive, Holmes Beach, 2 p.m.

Festivalgoers hooked on Cortez

The Cortez Commercial Fishing Festival drew thousands to the historic fishing village for a weekend of seafood, music and art.

BY LESLIE LAKE SUN CORRESPONDENT | llake@amisun.com

CORTEZ – At the inception of the Cortez Commercial Fishing Festival 41 years ago, the modestly attended event gave the Florida Institute for Saltwater Heritage (FISH) the ability to start purchasing parcels of land at what is now the FISH Preserve.

Over the years, the festival, now with more than 15,000 attendees for the twoday event, has enabled the non-profit FISH to purchase nearly 100 acres east of the historic fishing village and have the funds to restore and preserve it.

“We bought pieces of the land little by little,” FISH President Jane von Hahmann told a crowd gathered at the festival’s main stage on Saturday. “We didn’t have as many people coming as we do now.”

The festival, dubbed a “party with a purpose” by organizers, featured live music, seafood, a kid’s area and local

arts and crafts vendors.

Saturday’s weather was pictureperfect for the crowds listening to music and eating local dishes.

Tim and Theresa McAvoy, of Michigan, were attending the festival for the first time.

“We saw the signs and came over,” Tim said. “We’ve never seen a fishing village like this. It’s amazing to see something like it still exists.”

New this year, a highlight of the festival was a fisherman’s fashion show, emceed by local restaurateur Bob Slicker. Local fishermen modeled fishing attire, and the show was popular with the crowd as they voted by cheers for their top pick. The winner was announced by Karen Bell and Jane von Hahmann. Theo, a fisherman for A.P. Bell Co., won the top prize – a trident and bragging rights.

Local non-profit organizations were represented at booths during the festival, including the Organized Fisherman of Florida (OFF) Cortez Chapter, which sold items and accepted donations.

LESLIE LAKE | SUN

Above, local vendors sold nautical-themed artwork at the Cortez Commercial Fishing Festival last weekend. Right, the winner of the fisherman’s fashion show, Theo, holds his trident award.

SEE CORTEZ, PAGE 9

CORTEZ: Festivalgoers hooked

FROM PAGE 8

The Cortez Village Historical Society sold 520 strawberry shortcakes on Saturday alone – a record – with the help of volunteer high school students.

“It’s been going great,” CVHS board member Paul Dryfoos said on Saturday. “I love the vibe here today.”

A raffle for a wooden kayak refurbished by the FISH Boatworks crew was doing brisk sales.

“We’ve been real busy,” said Joe Egolf, of the Boatworks.

For a chance to try local seafood delicacies, some of the food booth offerings included smoked sheepshead, grouper sandwiches, crab cakes and shrimp.

In an educational component to the event, Dock Talks by the Florida Sea Grant program at the old Fulford Fish House offered attendees an up close and personal look at some of the local marine life.

An expanded kid’s area featured a net maze, pony rides, face painting and a rock-climbing wall.

A photo show was on display at the A.P. Bell fishhouse with ribbons going to the winners. Best in show went to Larry Frey for his photo, “Captain Dan,” portraying a sinking boat with a flock of pelicans on a nearby dock.

First place for adults went to Bob Rubeck for “Early Start,” an early morning fishing boat scene. Second place went to Brittany Braniger for “Legacy.”

First place for students went to Elliott Braniger, a fourth grader at Rowlett Academy, for “Pelican Party.”

Left,

Below, the photo contest Best in Show award went to Larry Frey for his photo, “Captain Dan,” portraying a sinking boat with a flock of pelicans on a nearby dock.

Cortez Park lends a hand

In preparation for sales at the Cortez Commercial Fishing Festival last weekend, more than 20 volunteers who live in Cortez Park folded and sorted more than 2,000 T-shirts.

“We live in Cortez,” park resident Marie Sullivan said. “We live right here in the park and we like to help.”

The backs of the shirts show this year’s Cortez Commercial Fishing Festival logo – a rendition of some of the sights in Cortez including Star Fish Co., A.P. Bell Fish Co., Fulford Fish Co. and Cortez Bait and Seafood. The theme is “Over 100 years of Commercial Fishing. Cortez Kind.”

Laid out on tables at Fisherman’s Hall on Feb. 15, volunteers folded and sorted the shirts by color and size.

The sale of the T-shirts will benefit the non-profit Florida Institute for Saltwater Heritage (FISH).

LESLIE LAKE | SUN Cortez Park resident and volunteer Marie Sullivan holds up one of 2,000 T-shirts that park residents sorted and folded.

LESLIE LAKE | SUN Above, signs painted by local high school students were displayed throughout the festival.

Angela Collins of the UF/IFAS Florida Sea Grant program conducted Dock Talks, an educational look at local marine life.

Medium levels of red tide reported

Water samples showed medium concentrations of red tide in local waters last week, according to the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC).

In samples taken on Feb. 17, medium levels occurred at the Anna Maria Rod and Reel Pier and at Longboat Pass.

At medium levels, respiratory irritation is possible, fish kills are probable and shellfish harvesting areas may be closed, according to the FWC. Low levels of red tide were reported at the Palma Sola Bay Bridge.

At low levels, respiratory irritation, fish kills and shellfish harvesting closures are possible.

RED TIDE REPORT

High (respiratory irritation, shellfish harvesting closures, fish kills, water discoloration)

Medium (probable respiratory irritation, shellfish harvesting closures, fish kills)

Low (possible respiratory irritation, shellfish harvesting closures, fish kills)

Very low (possible respiratory irritation)

Background (no effects)

None (no red tide present)

Source: Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission

COVID-19 in Manatee County

FEB. 13

Cases 272

% Positivity 12.42%

Deaths 0

% Eligible population vaccinated 74.5% New hospital admissions 17

FEB. 20

Cases 294

% Positivity 10.62%

Deaths 0

% Eligible population vaccinated 74.5% New hospital admissions 13

Source: Centers for Disease Control

Manatee County community level of COVID-19 transmission

The COVID-19 booster vaccines aimed at fighting the omicron subvariants are available at local pharmacies, including CVS and Walgreens in Holmes Beach.

Roser Church

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TOURISM: Record set

FROM PAGE 1

Room occupancy for December was up slightly up (.7%) after being down slightly in the September 2022 report from RDS. The average daily room rate is also up, at $211.38 per day in December 2022 compared to $182.55 in December of 2021.

RDS also keeps track of where people are coming from when they visit the area. After being down in the last report issued in September 2022, visitors from Florida rebounded in December, up 13.9% from the previous year. While European visitors are up 115% from 2021, they have yet to rebound after COVID with only half the number from 2019 before the pandemic. With 12,610 visitors, the Midwest continues to be the largest visitor origin location outside of Florida, but that is down from 2021 by 10.2%. The Southeast region had the most growth with a 22.3% increase from 2021.

The report also included information about Sarasota Bradenton International Airport (SRQ). Data from these reports helps the airport locate markets that are underserved, so they can work to get direct flights to those markets, which boosts tourism to Manatee and Sarasota counties. SRQ reported serving 3.85 million people in 2022, up 21.6% over 2021.

Wittine predicted that the spring tourism season underway on Anna Maria Island will be busier than ever, saying that almost every property surveyed in January is reporting more bookings than last year, with many being fully booked through March.

Domestic marketing drives tourism

and social media influencers are part of the Bradenton Area CVB's domestic marketing efforts.

BY JASON SCHAFFER SUN CORRESPONDENT | jschaffer@amisun.com

BRADENTON - Kolby Gayson, marketing and communications director for the Bradenton Area Convention and Visitors Bureau (CVB), gave the Manatee County Tourist Development Council (TDC) her domestic marketing update at the Feb. 13 meeting.

The CVB’s marketing efforts encompass all of Manatee County, but Anna Maria Island is the largest tourist destination in the county, and always a focal point of any county marketing efforts, whether they be foreign or domestic.

The county’s website, www.bradentongulfislands.com, had 133,000 total users from November 2022 through January 2023 (Q1), with the largest age demographic being 55-64 years old, followed closely by the 45-54-year-old demographic. Females make up the majority of website visitation, but only by 6%. Gayson said this is consistent with who they are marketing to, so efforts are proving successful.

“We have a well-established brand in the marketplace,” Gayson said. “People are not only seeking us in organic ways, but they are also coming to us directly because they know our brand.”

Gayson said the Q1 media budget was $480,483, but that number will be far less now, in Q2, because the area is in peak season and any mar-

December 2022 tourist tax collections compared to December 2021

Anna Maria 21% Bradenton Beach 2% Holmes Beach 14% Manatee County Total* 32%

*(Anna Maria Island, Bradenton, Longboat Key, unincorporated Manatee County, Palmetto)

Manatee County’s 5 percent tourist tax is collected from owners of accommodations rented for six months or less who charge the tax to their renters, in most cases, tourists. About 50 percent of the tax proceeds are allocated to Bradenton Area Convention and Visitors Bureau tourism marketing efforts, with 20 percent allocated to beach renourishment. Resort tax increases reflect both increased visitation and improved tax collection efforts. Amounts shown were collected in November and paid to the Manatee County Tax Collector’s Office in December. To anonymously report a rental owner who may not be paying the tax, call 941-741-4809 or visit http://www.taxcollector.com/tdt-evader.cfm.

Source: Manatee County Tax Collector

keting spending is more to maintain brand awareness rather than pulling people to the area that is already near capacity. She also said the majority of marketing efforts are digital, and while they also do print, they look for print advertising with a digital component.

One of the most effective ways of advertising is social media, and the CVB focuses a great deal on the Visit Bradenton Gulf Islands Facebook and Instagram pages. Gayson said the Q1 Facebook reach was 1,052,386 and Instagram saw a reach of 180,944 over the same period. She said the most effective posts are those that show local natural resources such as beaches, sunsets, nature preserves and other photos that draw those suffering freezing temperatures in the north to book

a trip to the Island or surrounding areas.

Domestic marketing efforts have also included social media influencers such as Connecticut-based Kelly Towart, who has over 75,000 followers interested in travel destinations. Influencers are quickly becoming one of the best ways to spread brand awareness at a reasonable cost with maximum results. Avelo airlines is also involved in this partnership. Gayson said in the near future the CVB would be launching a new website, a new destination guide, media events and a continued relationship with influencers and travel writers that have been driving traffic to the Bradenton area and Gulf Islands.

JASON SCHAFFER | SUN Ann Wittine, of Research Data Services, addresses the Feb. 14 Manatee County Tourist Development Council meeting with the latest tourism data.

Social media, print media

AMI Historical Society seeks tourism funds

The Anna Maria Island Historical Society is seeking support from county tourism officials for tourism funds.

BY JASON SCHAFFER SUN CORRESPONDENT | jschaffer@amisun.com

ANNA MARIA - The Anna Maria Island Historical Society (AMIHS), 402 Pine Ave., draws more than 10,000 visitors a year to its volunteer-managed museum, and is making plans to inform and entertain future visitors.

The museum is housed in a building that dates back 100 years to the 1920s. The building has served many purposes in its long life, including an ice house, turtle hatchery and more, and museum directors want to assure it has a bright future for many years to come showcasing the rich history of AMI.

On Feb. 13, they asked the Manatee County Tourist Development Council (TDC) for financial assistance.

According to the TDC, the historical society and its board of directors have explored a partnership with Carter Global, a fundraising agency that helps organizations maximize their philan -

thropic potential. The goal is to build a six-month plan for AMIHS to generate income that will help support the museum through revenues generated by memberships, admission fees and other strategic planning, rather than just donations from visitors and the community.

The plan presented to AMIHS by Carter Global is a capacity building project with a total cost of $72,000. Since the AMIHS operates on an annual budget of $40,000, they are not even close to the $72,000 goal, but calculated they could delegate $10,000 to the effort. They asked the TDC for

the additional $62,000 to complete the project.

As the TDC discussed the request, board member Ed Chiles proposed an amendment to the request in which the TDC would raise the amount to $100,000, with the additional funding going to assist with funding the Historical Society’s first full-time paid employee as the plan moves forward.

AMIHS Board President Elizabeth Hager and Vice President Barbara Murphy addressed the TDC to help clarify the request. TDC Chairman James Satcher asked both Hager and Murphy what the additional $28,000 would fund if they were given the money.

“We are prepared to do this work with a consultant, and we’re ready to go,” Hager said. “We feel it would be wonderful if you voted for Mr. Chiles’s amendment so we could proceed at pace without waiting for agendas and all that kind of thing.”

A unanimous vote from the TDC granted the amended request of $100,000 to the Historical Society. The request will now go to the Manatee County Commission, which has the final say.

SUBMITTED

The Anna Maria Island Historical Society on Pine Avenue in Anna Maria is seeking tourism funding.

AMI Chamber to hold lunch at Annie’s

The Anna Maria Island Chamber of Commerce will hold a networking lunch at Annie’s Bait and Tackle in Cortez on Thursday, March 9 from 11:30 a.m. to 1 p.m. The cost is $20 for members and $30 for potential members. There are only 16 spots available, so the chamber recommends an RSVP. Email becky@ amichamber.org or call 941-778-1541.

Cheesecake Cutie hosting fundraiser

The public is invited to a fundraiser at Cheesecake Cutie in Holmes Beach on March 21 from 5-7 p.m. to benefit the All Star Children’s Foundation. The event will feature food and wine and entertainment by Mike Sales. Tickets are $50, and can be purchased at cheesecakecuties.eventbrite.com. The mission of All Star Children’s Foundation is to build brighter futures for children in foster care through innovation, science and compassion.

WHERE‛S YOUR COMFORT ZONE?

AME third graders design tumbler for PTO

The 2021-22 Anna Maria Elementary School third-grade class designed tumbler mugs that are now available at Beach Bums on Pine Avenue in Anna Maria. Proceeds from the sale of the tumblers will benefit the AME PTO.

Food truck moratorium enacted

The Bradenton Beach City Commission has adopted on second and final reading city ordinance 23-546, which imposes a temporary 90-day moratorium on the storage, use or operation of food trucks and other mobile food dispensing vehicles anywhere in Bradenton Beach. The moratorium provides the city attorney and city commission with 90 days to develop permanent regulations and locations for food truck operations in Bradenton Beach. The moratorium does not apply to any countyowned properties, including Coquina Beach and the Coquina boat ramps.

Food truck operations are temporarily prohibited in Bradenton Beach.

Sweet project

AMI Makers of Merriment created love notes for Anna Maria Island’s five departments of first responders at their 5th Annual AMI Valentine Card Party. The group made more than 100 cards to be delivered with baskets of treats at the heart-shaped, glitterfilled, warm-hearted gala, hosted by Fifty Three Fifty The Pourhouse.

Couple needs help to sail away from AMI

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

HOLMES BEACH – Beachgoers

may have noticed a new addition to the sand near 81st Street – a beached

The “Lucky Us 2” broke anchor and washed ashore on Feb. 12 after its two owners were rescued by the U.S. Coast Guard during a storm. Now efforts are underway by the city and the owners to get it back where it belongs, in the Gulf of Mexico.

City Code Compliance Officer Kim Charron said that the owners of the boat want to have it back and continue their journey south. Unfortunately, the funds to remove the boat are proving to be an issue. Charron said that an estimate from SeaTow to unbeach the sailboat came in at $8,000-$15,000. And if the owners of the boat don’t come up

with the funds, she said it may fall on the city to pay for its removal.

Charron said that in order for the city to remove the boat, it has to be posted three times by police within an 18-month period. The first posting occurred on Feb. 14. Subsequent postings must be made 21 days apart.

The owners of a beached sailboat are working to try and get it back on the water and off Anna Maria Island’s shores.

SUBMITTED | MARY MAKI

The “Lucky Us 2” was beached on the sand in Holmes Beach after breaking free of its anchor on Feb. 12.

CVHS seeks new members

BY LESLIE LAKE SUN CORRESPONDENT | llake@amisun.com

CORTEZ – Due to the resignation of one of its board members for personal reasons, a spot has opened on the board of directors of the Cortez Village Historical Society (CVHS).

An opening left by J. B. Crawford was

announced at the CVHS monthly board meeting on Feb. 14.

“We would like to have someone who is passionate about Cortez and can take an active role,” CVHS President Cindy Rodgers said.

Rodgers also announced that the nonprofit CVHS will take part in the Suncoast Remake Learning Days – a national event

BILL: Filed to build beach parking garage

FROM PAGE 1

Mayor Judy Titsworth said that she’s disappointed by Robinson’s decision to file the bill and feels that it’s a blatant infringement of home rule. She said county leaders never submitted a formal application to the city for consideration of a parking garage and never put anything before city commissioners to consider allowing one through a special exception.

During a Feb. 14 commission meeting, Titsworth said that Robinson was scheduled to come to Holmes Beach later in the week to speak with city staff and tour the available public parking with her. On Monday, she said he decided to move the meeting to the end of the month.

In addition to the parking spaces already available in the city for beachgoers, Titsworth said she’d been speaking with

two area churches about using their parking areas for the public outside of church service times. If the parking garage bill goes through at the state level, she said she’s unsure if those organizations will go through with providing extra parking since part of the reason for that potential solution was to avoid having a parking garage built at Manatee Beach.

She encouraged everyone to continue writing letters to state legislators and to write to each of the committees that HB 947 goes to for consideration.

While a parking garage is becoming more of a possibility, a state-funded study to look at consolidation or elimination of the three Anna Maria Island cities is off the table – for now.

The state legislative delegation recently backed off its January proposal to pursue

that features hands-on learning for children and families. The free, public event is scheduled on Saturday, April 29 at the Cortez Village Cultural Center, 11655 Cortez Road W.

“We are going to focus on eco-adventures at the FISH Preserve,” Rodgers said. “Manatee County Libraries and Manatee County Natural Resources are participating. There will be reading activities, a popup mangrove and guided tours of the FISH Preserve.”

consolidating the cities at the state level if Island city leaders agreed to work together to consolidate some services at the city level.

Titsworth said she’s begun regular meetings with Bradenton Beach Mayor John Chappie and Anna Maria Mayor Dan Murphy to begin discussion on how they can consolidate some services across the three cities.

While she said she’s unsure right now of where they can consolidate, she said she’s hopeful that by working together, the three can find solutions that will take away the threat of consolidation or elimination by state legislators.

She was also quick to reassure city staff that no positions were being eliminated, saying, “No one’s losing a job in the city."

Titsworth said she’s having a bit of a difficult time trying to decide what could be consolidated.

“This is going to take quite a bit of time between the three cities to determine what can be consolidated,” she said. “We are

Board members were pleased with both the number of recorded volunteer hours288 for the month of January - and a total of 111 recorded visitors to the Cortez Cultural Center.

“It (the number of visitors) is probably way more than that,” Rodgers said. “These are just people who have signed in.”

An adoption of bylaws, drafted by board member Paul Dryfoos, was a topic of discussion and will be continued at the March 14 meeting.

committed to look and see what could be consolidated, listen to each other and work together.”

The mayoral meetings are a result of a recent meeting between state legislative representatives and the Island mayors concerning the consolidation of all three Island cities into one municipality or into unincorporated Manatee County.

Robinson began the year with a quest to launch a state-funded study to determine if the three cities should be eliminated or consolidated. The study, which was supported by the other members of the Manatee County state legislative delegation, has since been abandoned, at least temporarily, in favor of allowing the three Island governments to work some issues out among themselves.

“I can’t thank the citizens, visitors, residents, everyone enough,” Titsworth said of the outpouring of support from the public to fight against the consolidation study. “I couldn’t be more proud. You did an amazing job.”t

Fusion food

Brian Mathae

usion food is a style of cooking that combines elements from different culinary traditions to create a new and unique dish. It often involves blending ingredients and cooking techniques from different cultures, creating dishes that are inventive and exciting. Today’s recipe fuses together all the ingredients I have been thinking about this week. Tacos are what I call a perfect fusion vessel.

Tacos are a popular Mexican dish that has gained worldwide popularity over the years. The history of tacos is believed to date back to the 18th century, although the exact origin of the dish is somewhat disputed. One popular theory is that tacos were invented by Mexican silver miners

Chicken Tacos with Bourbon Peach Sauce

Ingredients (8 servings)

Tacos

8 8-inch flour tortillas

3 tablespoons bourbon

1 small red onion, finely chopped

1/4 cup brown sugar, packed

2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce

2 tablespoons maple syrup

2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar

1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley

who used to wrap small pieces of meat in tortillas for an easy and portable meal while they were working in the mines. Another theory suggests that tacos were actually invented by the indigenous people of Mexico, who have been eating tortillas filled with various ingredients for centuries. Regardless of their origin, tacos have evolved over time and today there are countless variations of the dish.

At Hurricane Hanks, we received some chicken thigh samples from one of our signature purveyors this week. It was nice to rediscover and experience exactly how flavorful they can be. Chicken thighs are a bit fattier than chicken breasts and have a richer, darker meat with more flavor. They are also more forgiving when it comes to cooking, as they don't dry out as easily as chicken breasts. Also this week we finally received our private selection barrel of Angels Envy Bourbon! This private barrel was years in the making so it was so exciting to see it arrive. We are pouring it however you like it at Hurricane Hanks but I

2 cloves garlic, minced

1/4 teaspoon pepper

1 1/2 pounds boneless skinless chicken thighs

Salsa

2 cups thawed frozen corn

1 cup chopped red pepper

1/2 cup finely chopped red onion

Dash of hot sauce

1/2 teaspoon salt

1/4 teaspoon pepper

Juice of 1 lime

suggest our guests try our Envious Old Fashioned cocktail. For those bourbon aficionados out there, you may want to pick up an entire bottle at Hurricane Liquors. With a proof of 109, you’ll get notes of butterscotch, maple syrup and spice. Using such an excellent bourbon in cooking may seem counterintuitive but it does leave some of the best flavor possible. Plus you have an excuse to

Bourbon Peach sauce

2 teaspoons butter

1/12 cup cubed fresh peaches

3 tablespoons bourbon

1 tablespoon brown sugar

1/2 cup chicken broth

2 thyme sprigs

1 clove garlic, minced

Directions

In a slow cooker combine all taco ingredients (except for the tortilla) and cook covered on low for 3-4 hours, ensuring the temperature reaches 165 F. Remove the chicken and shred with a fork.

open the bottle and only use a few tablespoons for the recipe!

The last significant ingredient in this recipe is peaches. We are soon to launch a new menu at Hanks and a dish or two will feature grilled peaches. So I figured what we could do with all three of these flavor temptations and came up with a chicken taco with bourbon peach sauce. We hope you enjoy!

Combine all salsa ingredients in a small bowl and refrigerate.

Once the chicken has been shredded you can complete the bourbon peach sauce. In a small pan on medium heat melt the butter and sauté the peach slices for 2 minutes. Add the brown sugar and peaches and cook an additional 5 minutes. Add the stock, thyme and garlic, and simmer an additional five minutes. Remove the thyme before serving.

Portion shredded chicken evenly between the tortilla. Top the chicken with the salsa and then spoon the bourbon peach sauce over top.

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Team Sato Real Estate dominates gridiron

BY MONICA SIMPSON SPECIAL TO THE SUN

ANNA MARIA - From the first posses sion of the football team, Sato Real Estate clicked, looking like a well-oiled machine. With brothers Dylan and Brandon Sato taking turns in the quarterback position, the team finished the game 53-6 with three rushing touchdowns, two receiving TDs, seven interceptions leading to 18 points, and five one-point conversions.

D. Sato was credited with two passing touchdowns as QB, targeting Silas De Witt and Kellen Reed. Bralyen Briggs and Camden Rudacille took the football to the endzone for 18 points.

Sato Real Estate’s Silas DeWitt and Kel len Reed caught two for TDs.

Turnovers were the enemy of team Cloud Pest Control. The three interceptions by D. Sato, along with singles by DeWitt, Reed, Rudacille and B. Sato took away scoring opportunities for the Cloud squad.

Limited to a single touchdown by Maci Sallier, team Cloud Pest Control fought every second of the game to stay in it.

Critical defensive plays by the Cloud team showed opponents, family and friends how much heart the entire squad played with throughout the fifth regular season game.

Elijah Casciani made two huge defensive stops with flag pulls. Casciani’s teammates Micah Gagne, Sammy Gilmore and Sallier each had flag pulls of their own in the match-up against the top-ranked team in the league.

Bodhi Silenzi made offensive contributions to the Cloud team with two nice catches on offense.

In the end, Cloud Pest Control could not stop team Sato Real Estate, thanks in part to the three pick-sixes scored by D. Sato after interceptions for 18 points.

Playing on the adjacent field at The Center, Westfall’s Lawn Care & Pest Control team came close to a fourth win against Solid Rock Construction. In an actionpacked game, team Solid Rock took the win with the final score of 37-28. Team Island Real Estate kept AMI Coconuts scoreless, with a final score of 21-0. Searching for their first win, team SynLawn suffered their fifth loss of the season against Moss Builders. There’s still one more week in the regular season for SynLawn to get the W.

FEB. 13

8- TO 10-YEAR-OLD LEAGUE - WEEK 5

Adult spring soccer signup begins at The Center

Adult spring soccer at The Center of Anna Maria Island begins on March 23 and registration is open until March 7. The season runs until May 25 with games played on Thursdays from 6-9 p.m.

The Captain’s Draft will be held on March 8 with a pick-up game kicking off the draft at 6 p.m. All new players must play in the pickup game.

The cost is $10 for Center members and $120 for non-members. There is a $10 late fee if you register or pay after March 7 and a $20 late fee if you register one week or more past the deadline. The Center offers sliding scale fees for those who qualify.

For more information, email Center Recreation Director Tyler Bekkerus at recreation@centerami. org or call 941-778-1908 ext. 210.

MONICA SIMPSON | SUN

Sato Real Estate’s Beau and Silas DeWitt are in hot pursuit of Cloud Pest Control’s Maci Sallier at The Center.

Join in the cleanup

Reel Time

ave you been looking for a way to meet new friends who share your passion for the environment and work to keep it healthy? An upcoming event will provide you with that opportunity. Join Sarasota Bay Watch, Suncoast Aqua Ventures and Suncoast Waterkeeper on Saturday, Feb. 25 from 8 a.m. to 1 p.m. at the Harbor Cove Community, 499 Imperial Drive in North Port. Hurricane Ian blew a tremendous amount of debris into the Myakka River, our area’s premier wild and scenic river. Join the effort in removing debris and restoring this natural treasure. You can sign up at the Sarasota Bay Watch website, www.sarasotabaywatch.org. The event starts at 8:15 a.m. with a safety

meeting followed by the cleanup, which begins at 8:30 a.m. Lunch will be provided at noon at the end of the cleanup. Fourteen kayaks will be provided for those who want to participate but don’t own a kayak. Sign up early to reserve a seat. Participants can, of course, bring their own kayak or shallow draft boat. Work gloves, trash bags, maps and equipment will be provided. Non-boaters are needed to retrieve trash or clean areas from land. Parking is limited, so carpool if possible. If you have questions, contact Ronda Ryan at 941-232-2363. Other sponsors include North Port Friends of Wildlife and the Harbor Cove Community. As you may be aware, Hurricane Ian had a huge impact over a wide swath of waterways across the state. While the news has moved on to more immediate stories, the debris left by the storm remains in some of the Suncoast’s most important natural areas. On their first event held on Dec. 11, 2022, the organizations cleaned up the waterways in the community of Holiday Estates. A particularly hard-hit area on the Suncoast, Lemon

Bay sits at the southern end of the watershed monitored by Suncoast Aqua Ventures, Sarasota Bay Watch and Suncoast Waterkeeper. With the assistance of Lemon Bay Conservancy and the Coastal and Heartland National Estuary Program, they worked to clean up the canals of Ainger Creek, a major tributary of Lemon Bay.

This is a great opportunity to learn about and participate in the important work of these organizations, as well as an opportunity to spend a day making a difference and meeting new friends. Join in to keep the Suncoast the special place it is for this and future generations.

RUSTY CHINNIS

RUSTY CHINNIS | SUN

Cheryl Huntsinger with Suncoast Aqua Ventures returns with a boatload of debris from December’s cleanup in Lemon Bay.

SUBMITTED

The owners of the sailboat erected a sign on Feb. 15 asking for donations to help defray the estimated $8,000-$15,000 cost of removing the boat from the beach.

SAILBOAT: Couple needs help to sail away from AMI

FROM PAGE 15

While city staff is working on its end to get the boat removed, the owners are working to crowdfund the finances to remove the sailboat. One of the owners, James Golembiewski, has organized a GoFundMe page with a goal of raising $15,000 to remove the sailboat and complete repairs to the vessel. On the fundraiser page, he said that during the storm, the ship’s mainsail was torn and the motor cracked due to failed motor mounts. The anchor also broke away from the ship, resulting in the boat landing on the beach. Their dinghy popped off and some items were stolen from the boat once it washed ashore, including a grill and spare dinghy motor.

Golembiewski said he and his childhood friend, whom he was sailing with, do not have the funds to pull the boat off the beach, but they’re hoping for a little help from new friends to reach their goal and continue their journey to south Florida.

As of press time for The Sun, 45 donors had contributed $2,191 to the fundraiser. To view the online fundraiser, visit https://gofund.me/8d944842.

Grand Funk Railroad’s 50th anniversary tour hits AMI

BY JOE BECHT SPECIAL TO THE SUN

ANNA MARIA - The Center of Anna Maria Island will rock harder than ever when Grand Funk Railroad’s sold-out 50th Anniversary “We’re an American Band” tour comes to town on Saturday, Feb. 25.

“It’s going to be a great night and we look forward to visiting Anna Maria,” said one of the band’s founders, drummer and lead vocalist Don Brewer. “We know it is a paradise and we intend to put on another great night of hard rock.”

The current lineup has been intact since 1998. It features Brewer,

another original member, Mel Schacher, plus former KISS guitarist Bruce Kulick and former 38. Special singer/songwriter Max Carl.

“Max sings lead for us and also wrote one of 38. Special’s biggest hits, ‘Second Chance,’ I know fans of that song will be pleasantly surprised.”

Many casual KISS fans may not remember that the band had a fairly successful career without makeup from 1983 to 1995. Guitarist Bruce Kulick was a force behind much of that success and is arguably the most talented guitarist the band ever had.

“Bruce has been a great addition and plays the Grand Funk Railroad songs perfectly. He’s an incredible

talent,” Brewer said. “He has a solo routine during the show that blows the roof off the joint!”

Active month for Key Royale golfers

FEB. 6 - MODIFIED STABLEFORD

First Place - Jim Hitchen with a score of +6

Second Place - Art McMillan with a score of +5

Third Place - Doug Albrecht and Terry Schaefer tied with a score of +3

FEB. 7 - LOW NET SCORE

Flight A

First Place - Helen Pollock with a score of 28

Second Place - Sue Wheeler and Roxanne Koche with a score of 31

Flight B

First Place - Sue Christenson with a score of 30

Second Place - Marti Clark with a score of 31

Jenny Huibers had a birdie on Hole #3. Roxanne Koche and Sue Christenson had chip-ins on Hole 4 and 3 respectively.

FEB. 9 - SHAMBLE - COUNTING TWO SCORES PER FOURSOME

First Place - Brian Comer, Larry Davis, Wayne Patterson and Mike Riddick with a score of 63, 1 under par

Second Place - Tony Donnelly, Joe Ireland, Brett Lance and Ron Vandeman with a score of 64, even par

Third Place - John Cassese, Clint Hurdle, Art McMillan and Deb Richardson with a score of 65, 1 over par

FEB. 13 - STABLEFORD

First Place - John Cassese, Mike Clements, Bill MacMillan and Wayne Patterson tied with a score of + 3

Second Place - Brian Comer, Bill Koche, Kent Newbold, Ron Pfaff and Terry Tarras tied with a score of +2

FEB. 14 - PLAY WITH FRIENDS SCRAMBLE

First Place - Leigh Brattain, Betsy Meyers, Jana Samuels and Brenda Soleveld with a score of 30, 2 under par Second Place - Lisa Edmonds, Jenny Huibers, Sue Pierce and Terry Taylor with a score of 32, even par Third Place - Sue Christenson, Peggy Clauhs, Roxanne Koche and Connie Livanos tied the team of Anne Klein, Margrit Layh, Marilyn Niewyk and Mary Wilke with a score of 35, 3 over par

FEB. 16 - COMBINATION SCRAMBLE/ SHAMBLE

First Place - Mike Gillie, Dale Hudson, Clint Hurdle and Gary Risner with a score of 46, even par Second Place - Leigh Brattain, Larry Davis, John Kolojeski and Dave Richardson tied the team of Tony Donnelly, Mike Riddick, Nub Turner and Tom Young with a score of 47, one over par

SARAH PARSONS | SUN

35th Annual Springfest coming in March

The Anna Maria Island Art League will hold the 35th Annual Springfest Festival of Fine Arts and Fine Crafts on Saturday, March 18 from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. and Sunday, March 19 from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. at City Field, 5901 Marina Drive in Holmes Beach. More than 80 professional artists and crafts persons from across the U.S. will display at the event, which will also feature live music, food and beverages. For more information, call the Art League at 941778-2099, visit www.islandartleague. org/festivals/ or email artleagueami@ gmail.com.

Last week for Movies in the Park

Weekly Classic Movies in the Park will wrap up for the season at City Pier Park in Anna Maria on Tuesday, Feb. 28 at 6:30 p.m. Bring a blanket, chair and refreshments and enjoy “Field of Dreams” next to the bay. The movie is free and subject to cancellation due to adverse weather.

Anna Maria

SIGNS: No parking signs debated

FROM PAGE 1

The new “no parking” signs were discussed during the committee’s Feb. 15 meeting.

Committee Chair Ingrid McClellan noted there are 61 new “no parking” signs in the quarter-mile stretch of Gulf Drive South near Coquina Beach and the Coquina boat ramps. She surmised that placing so many signs so close together results in the sign poles serving as barriers that prevent parking there. McClellan said she was surprised there was no preliminary discussion before the signs were installed.

Citing the Bradenton Beach Scenic Highway Corridor Management Plan, McClellan said ropes and wooden bollards would have been a more naturallooking means of preventing parking along the scenic highway.

“The problem is trying to be solved with the wrong solution,” McClellan said.

Liza Click serves as the Manatee County supervisor for property management in the grounds division. She also serves as a county liaison to the Scenic WAVES Committee.

Click said she was surprised to see that many signs when she drove in that morning.

“It was just shocking,” she said. Click said she’d rather see trees there than signs, but acknowledged the parking issues do exist.

“Holiday weekends are horrible,” she said.

Click said in the past people have removed bollards, barricades and caution tape in order to park near the beach; and

vehicles were sometimes double or tripleparked in the right of way.

“They’re still going to park between these signs,” Click said.

Click said the county drainage and parking lot improvements taking place at Coquina Beach will provide some relief.

“We created two overflow parking areas which will accommodate somewhere between 160 and 180 cars once all this construction is done. That’s at our discretion to open up when we see that it’s at capacity and those other cars that are jockeying for spots are starting to park illegally on the sides of the road,” she said.

FDOT District Landscape Architect Darryl Richard also serves as a Scenic WAVES Committee liaison.

Regarding the new signs, Richard said, “This doesn’t happen in a void. Someone had to request this number of signs.”

Bradenton Beach Mayor John Chappie serves as the city commission’s Scenic WAVES liaison.

“I’m not a big proponent of signs. We have it in writing from the FDOT traffic engineer. That’s how many were needed to cover the area,” Chappie said.

“It is illegal to park in the FDOT right of way. There is a clear safety concern. Whether there’s bollards there or not, people will park there. We haven’t been able to stop them so far and it’s a dangerous situation,” Chappie said.

Chappie said it’s also important to reduce the risk of confrontation faced by Bradenton Beach police officers, county sheriff’s deputies and county code enforcement officers when enforcing the state’s parking prohibition.

ment personnel do get pushback from those being ticketed for parking in the right of way and they question why they’re being ticketed when there’s no signs saying they can’t park there.

POSSIBLE SOLUTIONS

Regarding the Scenic WAVES Committee pursuing any sign reductions, Chappie said, “The city is not going to authorize our advisory group going any further than this meeting on this. We’re not going to just get rid of the signs. It’s going to take some convincing because of the issues we’ve had over the last several years, and it’s just getting worse. We did this once before and removed all the signs and then we started having more problems. When they (FDOT) put these out, their engineers said this is how many you have to have to be enforceable.”

Richard said he met with Manatee County Deputy Director of Sports and

mine DeMilio the previous week.

“He mentioned he wanted to do something at Coquina Beach. Maybe you (the county) can sponsor a project and include the consideration of bollards or landscaping and some of the parking signs can possibly be adjusted or removed. We wouldn’t remove all of them. You’ve still got to communicate to the public. Everyone who’s been to the beach knows it’s a madhouse on peak days,” Richard said.

Richard said he doesn’t envision any changes taking place in the immediate future, with peak season and spring break approaching.

Click said she would also talk to DeMilio about the possibility of installing landscaping elements or landscaping beds that might each replace some of the “no parking” signs. She said she can envision ways to reduce the number of signs and still prevent people from parking in those areas.

JOE HENDRICKS | SUN

The number of “no parking” signs installed along Gulf Drive South surprised the Scenic WAVES Committee members.

REAL ESTATE

When the numbers are too high to count

Several years ago, I started writing a monthly column analyzing the over $1 million properties on the Island and in Cortez. Then, because of the volume of properties, I amended that to do the analysis quarterly. Now I’m faced with the reality of having so many properties over $1 million that it’s easier to count the ones under a million and provide an overview of what’s going on. And what’s going on is mind blowing, probably something I don’t need to tell you.

Little Cortez has 19 properties either available or pending. Twelve of them are $1 million or over, counting a $999,000 property. The properties start with $4,999,999 and several of the properties are part of the new Hunters Point community.

The city of Anna Maria, which everyone knows by now is the second most expensive zip code in the state of Florida, continues to grow. There are 80

Castles in the Sand

LOUISE BOLGER

properties either available or pending on the north end and only two of those listings are under $1 million. It starts at $12,775,000 and ends at $1,399,900 with only 16 properties between $1 million and $2 million.

The combined cities of Bradenton Beach and Holmes Beach have 172 available or pending properties. They start at $12,995,000 and end at $999,000. There are only 53 out of 172 properties listed under $1 million.

All of the above numbers are based on the available information as of this writing, which changes daily. Nevertheless, it’s pretty obvious that we have

broken records and keep breaking them. But why?

It seems like the world is moving to Florida and based on the increase in population numbers it very well may be. The population of Florida in 2022 was 22,244,823, an increase of 1.91% from 2021. The population of Florida at the end of 2019, when the COVID-19 pandemic was just starting, was 21,492,056, an increase of 752,767 in just three years.

As a comparison, the state of New York for the year 2022 had a population of 19,677,151. You would have to go back to 2014, long before COVID was even a word, when Florida’s population was 19,853,880 to come close to New York state’s current population. The increases in Florida’s population show a consistent growth pattern, with only two states, California and Texas, having higher populations.

And there are other reasons for Flor-

ida’s expanding population. Certainly, the lack of state income tax is a huge draw for wealthy individuals and businesses alike. Florida has a lower budget by billions than other large states and a higher GDP rate. And, although our sales tax and some permitting fees may be higher than other large states, in the end, it’s generally a more affordable state to live in.

Finally, do I even want to go down the lifestyle road, something it’s impossible to put a number on? For the most part, properties are being bought by buyers from out of state and it’s not all about the money.

I guess I really do know the reason the sales numbers are too high to count and the population keeps increasing. In spite of some adjustments to the real estate market all over the state, chances are it will continue, especially when buyers and sellers realize it’s now or never.

Thinking of adding the keys one of these homes our New Year? Call big Al!

BEACH BEAT

BRADENTON BEACH

2/9, 11:35 p.m., noise complaint, 103 26th St. N. The officer was dispatched to a loud noise complaint. The music and noise coming from the pool area was in violation of the city noise ordinance. The officer made contact with the renter who told him the rental company did not make him aware that loud noise was not permitted after 10 p.m. The renter agreed to lower the noise and was told by the officer if there were further violations, law enforcement action would be taken.

HOLMES BEACH

2/8, 9 a.m., burglary, 400 Gulf Drive. The officer responded to the Manatee Beach parking lot in response to a vehicle burglary. The owner of the rental car said he had his bags stolen from the trunk of the vehicle. The estimated value of the bags and contents was $600. A passenger

also had a bag stolen with the contents estimated at $1,170. While speaking to the victims, a female approached the officers with a description of a Hispanic male she believed was the person responsible for the crime. Fingerprints were taken by police and DNA was swabbed from the vehicle, but police have no suspect and the case is pending.

2/11, 11:42 p.m., trespass warning, 5337 Holmes Blvd. The officer responded to a verbal argument at the Freckled Fin Irish Pub. Parties had left the bar except for one male subject, at the request of the manager. The male subject was told by the officer he was to leave the premises and was trespassing after a warning. The male subject was still refusing to leave the property after being told by police that he would be arrested if he continued to refuse the trespass warning. After being told by the officer he would be arrested, the male subject left without further incident.

OBITUARIES

Alan Hardy Prather

Alan Hardy Prather, Esquire, 74, passed away surrounded by family on Sunday, Feb. 5, 2023. He was born on Jan. 28, 1949, in Gainesville, Florida. He was the son of the late Hardy and Freda Prather. Alan was a true Gator, raised in Florida and North Carolina. Alan attended High Point College, and upon graduation with a BA, he was commissioned in the U.S. Marine Corps and admitted to the University of Florida College of Law. After graduation, he served four years as a JAG officer until returning to Florida and commencing his private practice. He has represented in one capacity or another, Manatee County, the cities of Bradenton, Bradenton

Beach and Palmetto, as well as the Manatee County School Board and various special districts and corporations. He served the firm of Porges, Hamlin, Knowles & Hawk, P.A. in an “Of Counsel” capacity. Alan was board certified in city, county and local government law and was appointed to the City, County and Local Government Law Certification Committee from 1998-04 and again from 2009-15, leaving as chairman. He was a member of the Florida Bar, the Manatee County Bar Association and the U. S. Supreme Court.

It was at his first job in Manatee County that he met his wife, Beverly. They were happily married for 37 years. Alan proudly became father to Beverly’s three children; Jennifer Sabo Taylor, Ben Sabo and Nathan Sabo. Alan attended Christ Episcopal Church, served on the Vestry and participated as a Reader/ Chalice Bearer and Chan -

cellor. Alan is survived by his wife, Beverly; his sister, Robyn Spangler and family; daughter, Jennifer (Mike) Taylor; and sons, Ben (Jenny) Sabo and Nathan (Jen) Sabo. He is also survived by his grandchildren, Christian Taylor, Kayleigh Sabo, Isabel Taylor, Chase Thornton, Orin Taylor, Christian Sabo, Amelia Sabo, Grady Sabo, nieces and nephews, cousins and friends.

Funeral services will be Saturday, Feb. 25 at 1 p.m. at Christ Episcopal Church, 4030 Manatee Ave. W., Bradenton, with a reception to follow in the Church Parish Hall. Brown & Sons Funeral Homes & Crematory 43rd Street Chapel is in charge of the arrangements.

Special thanks to the ICU and Hospice staff of Blake Hospital who cared for Alan.

In lieu of flowers, donations can be made in Alan’s name to Christ Episcopal Church or the Salvation Army.

Condo communities host pickleball tournament

The Westbay Point & Moorings and the Shell Point condominium com munities in Holmes Beach held their inaugural pickle ball tournament and picnic on Feb. 18. Jim and Kathie Turk were the grand cham pions of the tournament that featured 12 teams competing on three courts. Event sponsors included CrossFit Anna Maria, Piz zano’s Pizza and Grinderz, The Ugly Grouper, The Freckled Fin, Hurricane Hanks and Duffy’s Tavern.

BRUCE MCFADDEN | SUBMITTED

From left, third-place finishers Loren Hancock and Norm Jameson, second-place finishers Jim Carver and Dan Couture and tournament winners Kathie and Jim Turk.

Business moves from beach to Bridge Street

A clothing designer opens a retail space in Bradenton Beach after the Coquina Market closure.

BY LESLIE LAKE SUN CORRESPONDENT | llake@amisun.com

BRADENTON BEACH - Rejane Monetti knew she had a loyal following for her clothing designs at the Coquina Beach Market, but when the market closed last August, she had to find another way to satisfy her customers.

“People were coming from as far as Venice and Ocala to see me at the market,” Monetti said. “When the market closed, I had people calling me from the beach parking lot on market day to see where I was.”

She asked her husband, John, a former Holmes Beach commissioner, to help her find a retail space, and when he was at the post office on Bridge Street, he found her current location - a vacant shop at 119 Bridge St. “I had to find a way to be there for my customers. We closed the contract on the store in 24 hours,” she said. “Eighty people came to our grand opening on Jan. 24.”

All the clothing in the shop,

Monetti Apparel, is designed by Rejane Monetti and manufactured in Brazil.

“When I was a little girl in Brazil, my mother would take me to a seamstress to have my clothes made,” she said. “We learned to make and design

our own clothes. “

Some of Monetti’s designs include colorful dresses, tops, skirts and rompers.

A new line of clothing, named “Lourdes” after Monetti’s late mother, features colorful hand-crocheted tops and

beach coverups.

Everything but the crocheted items are SPF 50 and are made of polyamide material. They are designed to be worn in the water, playing sports or for an evening out.

“You can swim in my clothes,

play tennis, pickleball or wear them on the boat,” Monetti said. “This material took the place of Lycra. It’s not spandex. It doesn’t fade or change shape and it’s good in the sun because of the SPF.”

Several local restaurants and retailers also carry Monetti’s clothing line.

“My clothes are for sale at Manatee Beach, Longboat Key Club, Beach House and Sandbar,” she said.

Monetti said she misses the Coquina Beach Market “family” and the beach vibe. She said the market was more than just a place to buy clothes, but had a magical atmosphere.

“I had to open this shop because of the beach market closing,” she said. “It was like a family. I feel very fortunate and I feel sorry for the ones who didn’t have the chance to do this.”

The Coquina Beach Market, which had been run by Nancy Ambrose, was closed in August 2022. In an Aug. 2 press release from Manatee County, Information Director Bill Logan announced the county would take over the beach market. The county-run market initially had a scheduled opening date of Nov. 1 but has been delayed.

LESLIE LAKE | SUN

Rejane Monetti models one of her designs in her new shop on Bridge Street. She was a familiar face at the Coquina Beach Market until its closure last August.

ANNOUNCEMENTS

BRIDGE GAMES STARTING up at Roser Church in February. Call 314-324-5921 for details.

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.

BOATS

BOAT FOR SALE 2014 Key West 203DFS with 150 HP. Clean, excellent condition, GPS, Bimini Top, covers, $19,999 Call 973-896-2562

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 941-7564570 or 941-565-3931

EMPLOYMENT

WANTED LICENSED

REALTOR! Seeking real estate agent with island expertise to join our highly productive sales team! Contact us at 941-900-4974. All calls confidential

WE ARE HIRING Part Time & Full Time. The White Egret & The Egret’s Nest in City of Anna Maria’ Please contact Pam at 941-7783782

The award-winning ANNA MARIA ISLAND SUN, a weekly newspaper on Florida’s Gulf Coast, is looking for a freelance reporter/photographer to cover events on this tourism-driven island. The ideal candidate will have reporting and photography experience at a community newspaper and have some experience writing for a news website. Local residents or those with previous local knowledge and willing to relocate here a plus. Resumes and cover letters may be mailed to The Anna Maria Island Sun, P.O Box 1189, Anna Maria, FL 34216, Attention: Mike Field, publisher.

FISHING CHARTERS

CAPT. MAC GREGORY

Fishing Charters. Full Day, Half Day, Night, Inshore & Near Shore. 941-809-5783

U.S.C.G. Certified/Insured FOR SALE

TOPPER FOR F150 Long bed. $50 or Best Offer. Call 941-705-7560.

GARAGE SALE

GARAGE SALE-MULTIBLE ITEMS from a collector. 208 Oak Ave, City of Anna Maria. EVERY Saturday & Sunday thru March 12. 9am-until.

HOLMES BEACH KEY ROYALE NEIGHBORHOOD 11th Annual Yard Sale event! Saturday February 25, 9am1pm. Follow Key Royale Drive to multiple canal homes with top notch goods!

BAZAAR 5701 15TH Ave. West, Bradenton. Saturday February 25. House wares, linens, tools, clothing, toys & more

HOME IMPROVEMENTS

TILE! TILE! TILE! All variations of tile supplied and installed. Quality workmanship. Prompt, reliable, many Island references. Free estimates.

Neil 941-726-3077

RENOVATION SPECALIST

ALL carpentry repairs, Wash Family Construction, locally owned and operated CBC 1258250 Call 941-7250073.

KERN CONSTRUCTION

NEW Homes & Remodel. Design/Build. Since 1968. License # CBC 1261150. Call Mike Kern 941-7781115

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.

HOME IMPROVEMENT Michigan General Contractor 30+ yrs. experience. Large or small projects. Budget minded knowledgeable tradesman will complete your project start to finish: On Time/On Budget. Call Mike 616-204-8822.

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

HOME SERVICES

CONCRETE FUSION, CRACK REPAIR sidewalks/ driveways. Why fix 95% of concrete when only 5% bad? Number 1 in concrete repair. Insured. Free estimate. Call Bobby 941-374-7670.

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, bimonthly or monthly schedule. Pressure washing. Call Bill Witaszek 941-307-9315

MOVING & STORAGE

MARTIN’S MOVING

YOUR Island movers! Offering dependable, competitive rates. No hidden costs. 941-809-5777.

PAINTING & WALLCOVERING

PAINT! PAINT! AND MORE 28 years of experienced interior/exterior custom painting. Pressure cleaning, drywall repairs and texture finishes. Many Island references. Please call Neil for free estimates. 941-812-0507

“WIZARD OF WALLS”

Established 1980 Prompt quality service. Wallpaper installation/ removal. Mary Bell Winegarden 941-794-0455

DONALD PERKINS

ABRACADABRA PAINTING LLC fully insured. 30 years experience. Many Island references. Call 941-705-7096

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

POOL SERVICES

FOUR SEASONS POOL SERVICE AND CHEMICAL SERVICES. Certified Pool Operator. 10 + 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 941565-3931.

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

ATTN REALTORS: Are you thinking about leaving the business to get a salaried job? If you love being a Realtor & need help navigating this new market, call us today for a confidential appt. Kelly Gitt The Gitt Team AMI KW on the Water 941-799-9299

GORGEOUS DEEP WATER LOT with 2BR/2BA home in City of Anna Maria with dock and boat lift. Beautiful street. Just one block walk to beach. $2,800,000. Call for showing 941-7136531

VILLAGE GREEN CONDO ~ Maintenance free 2BR/2BA condo with garage. Convenient West Bradenton location, 5 minutes to the beach. $358,000.00. Call Lisa Varano at Wagner Realty 941-730-9060.

RENTALS: ANNUAL

CANAL FRONT ANNUAL rental. Charming 2BR/2BA secluded cottage. Great location on the north end of the Island. Available April 1st. 2023. $4,000/ month. Call Paige Rogers Duncan Real Estate 513-382-1992.

ANNUAL RENTALS – AVAILABLE NOW. 2BR/1BA, furnished. $4,500/month. Canal front 3BR/2BA home, private pool, boat dock. AVAILABLE 2/1/23. $7,9560/mo. First, Last, and Security Deposit required Call Sato Real Estate, Inc 941-778-7200 or Email monica@satorealestate. com

AMI 2BR/2BA MONTHLY. A MUST SEE. Beach across the street. Turn key. $7200/mo in season (all inclusive). 941-226-4008.

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 941201-2190

ANNA MARIA ISLAND

CONDOS Large pool, beach access, free WiFi, 1&2 Bedroom $900 to $1200 per week redekercondosonami.com Tim 941-704-7525

SEASONAL RENTAL JANUARY, FEBRUARY, MARCH 2024. 1BR/1BA Bradenton Beach. Small complex, heated pool. Walk to restaurants, beach one block. Call Peggy 941-545-0208.

TRANSPORTATION

AMI TAXI credit cards, cash, Venmo accepted. Airport: Tampa $105, Sarasota $50, St. Pete/Clearwater $105, Orlando $220. Call 941447-8372, www.amitaxi. com GOLF CART RENTALS

ANYTIME TRANSPORTATION to all Airports, Casino, etc. Tampa/St. Pete $80. Sarasota $40. Pets welcome. Very dependable. Reasonable rates. Contact Jeanne. 941-779-5095