Ross Built creates generational home on Jewfish Key
City attorney: Hotel project will begin construction this year
BY LESLIE LAKE SUN CORRESPONDENT | llake@amisun.com
BRADENTON BEACH – Construction is expected to begin this summer on the Bridge Street hotel project, according to City Attorney Ricinda Perry.
“By way of keeping you in the loop with development activities within the CRA (Community Redevelopment Agency) district, I have spoken with Shawn and Jake (hotel co-applicants Shawn Kaleta and Jake Spooner) who have the hotel that’s supposed to come on to Bridge Street,” Perry said to CRA members at a Jan. 16 meeting.
On Dec. 7, 2023, the city commission approved the 106-room resort hotel, 60-seat restaurant, 5,396 square feet of retail and 154 on-site parking spaces.
“I have been told that those plans
have been worked on, they are submitting the building department plans for this and they hope to turn dirt by late summer for that project, so it is still on task,” Perry said.
Just days after approval, on Dec. 11, a permitted demolition began on 129 Gulf Drive S., the location of the former Joe’s Eats N Sweets. On Jan. 13, 101 Bridge St., formerly the Freckled Fin, was demolished. On Jan. 26, demolition began on the building at 105 Bridge St., formerly the Magnolia Inn.
The parcel, on the corner of Bridge Street and Gulf Drive South, has since been used as a public paid parking lot.
The hotel property is sited on 1.61 acres and located at 101, 105 and 117 Bridge St. and 106, 108, 110 and 112 Third St. S.
The Jewfish Key home will be featured in Southern Living magazine.
BY JOE HENDRICKS SUN CORRESPONDENT | jhendricks@amisun.com
LONGBOAT KEY – Ross Built Custom Homes recently built a new waterfront home on Jewfish Key. The Bradenton-based construction company is owned and operated by husband and wife Greg and Lee Ross.
On Dec. 13, Lee Ross provided a tour of the new home soon to be occupied by its owners. Completed after hurricanes Helene and Milton hit, the home will be showcased in Southern Living magazine in March.
“The premise of the article is homes that are built to last and we’re proud to be part of that,” Lee Ross said.
“I presented the house to the client yesterday. On the boat ride over here, he told his kids they can never sell this house. They need to pass it down to their kids. We built the house to last and they want it passed down through the generations,” she added.
The 3,000-square-foot home features four bedrooms, four and a half bathrooms and comfortably sleeps 14 people, with bunk beds SEE ROSS BUILT, PAGE 19
Commissioners discuss restructuring building department
A work meeting is scheduled on Jan. 28 to evaluate continuing to contract with an outside building official versus hiring a city employee.
BY LESLIE LAKE SUN CORRESPONDENT | llake@amisun.com
BRADENTON BEACH – Following discussion at a Jan. 16 city commission meeting about a possible restructuring of the city’s building department, commissioners decided to meet on Tuesday, Jan. 28 for a work meeting on the subject.
The city has been at odds with Building Official Darin Cushing over his issuance of a permit for the DriftIn tiki structure on Bridge Street.
“Right now, we are currently under a contractual agreement with SAFEbuilt to provide a building official
and planner,” Mayor John Chappie said. “This is opposed to the way it used to be with a department head as employees of the city.”
Chappie said over the years, the system of contracting has worked out for the most part, but said he would like commissioners to evaluate the return of the building department positions to the city.
“The past four or five months have been very challenging as we all know,” Chappie said, citing the importance of having department heads at emergency team meetings.
Cushing serves as the city’s building official with Luis Serna as land planner. Both are contractual roles.
Commissioners approved a contract for Cushing on Jan. 18, 2024 as city building official following the
JOE HENDRICKS | SUN
The home is accessible only by boat on an exclusive island in the Intracoastal Waterway between Longboat Key and Anna Maria Island.
HBPD, BBPD assists with presidential inauguration
Above, from left, representing the Holmes Beach Police Department, Officer Andrew Adkins, Officer Frank Price, Sgt. Josh Betts and Sgt. Mike Walker traveled to Washington D.C. to provide additional police protection during the presidential inauguration.
Right, Bradenton Beach Police Officer Kyle Orms, left, and Officer Devon Straight traveled to Washington D.C. to provide protection on the line for the Jan. 20 presidential inauguration motorcade.
Letter prompts noise ordinance discussion
The daytime noise level stipulated for the proposed Island Bazaar development is lower than the rest of the city.
BY JOE HENDRICKS SUN CORRESPONDENT | jhendricks@amisun.com
HOLMES BEACH – Written by Holmes Beach residents Dick and Margie Motzer, a letter to the editor that recently appeared in The Sun resulted in an impromptu Holmes Beach Planning Commission discussion about the city’s noise ordinance.
The letter pertained to the city commission’s recent approval of the Island Bazaar site plan at Gulf and Marina Drives. The commission approval includes a stipulation that limits the volume of the miniature golf course’s ambient music to 50 decibels.
“That level of protection is now only in this one geographic region, at the old Wells Fargo location,” the Motzers’ letter said. “We think the city needs to take action to apply that same daytime 50-decibel level city-wide.”
Planning Commissioner Lisa
JOE HENDRICKS | SUN
Planning Commissioner Lisa Pierce initiated discussion about Holmes Beach noise regulations.
Pierce mentioned the letter during the planning commission’s Jan. 15 meeting.
“I would say what’s good for the goose is good for the gander. That sounds like a good idea everywhere,” she said.
Holmes Beach Director of Development Services Chad Minor noted that the city’s standard daytime volume limit is 75 decibels.
City commissioners did not amend the noise ordinance when approving the Island Bazaar site plan, they simply included a volume stipulation specific to that property, he said.
The planning commission’s primary assignment is to review city matters
for compliance with the city’s comprehensive plan, the document that sets forth the city’s overall vision for future development and redevelopment.
Minor said the city’s noise regulations are addressed in the Land Development Code (LDC) and the planning commission would need city commission authorization to review regulations contained in the LDC. Minor said the planning commission could send one of its members to a city commission meeting to request that authorization.
“I think 50 (decibels) is really low,” Planning Commissioner Richard Brown opined.
Planning Commissioner Steve Oelfke praised Island Bazaar developer Jake Spooner for being receptive to the city commission’s volume request, but he said other developers may not be as accommodating. Oelfke expressed support for reviewing the noise ordinance as it relates to the comprehensive plan.
The planning commissioners agreed to place Minor’s suggestion on the agenda for formal discussion at their Wednesday, Feb. 5 meeting.
ISLAND NEWS
IN BRIEF
Anna
Maria parking switches sides
Scan this code with your smartphone to go there.
City reviewing planned changes to Bradenton Beach Marina
Pay attention to the parking signs in the city of Anna Maria when parking along Gladiolus Street, Elm Avenue, Fern Street, Magnolia Avenue, Newton Lane, Palm Avenue, Fir Avenue, Palmetto Avenue, Coconut Avenue, Jacaranda Road and Sycamore Avenue. Each year, the street-side parking along portions of those streets switches to the other side of the street, mostly along the 100 blocks near the beach access points. “We flip every year just to be fair to the property owners on those streets. This has been going on for several years,” Mayor Mark Short said. Allowing parking along both sides of those streets also makes it more difficult for large fire trucks and other emergency vehicles to navigate. Enforcement and the issuance of $50 parking tickets for parking on the wrong side of the street began on Jan. 20.
Parking on sidewalks prohibited
BY LESLIE LAKE SUN CORRESPONDENT | llake@amisun.com
BRADENTON BEACH – A plan to replace dry storage and boat repairs with restaurants and retail at the Bradenton Beach Marina was discussed at a Jan. 16 Community Redevelopment Agency (CRA) meeting.
“There were plans discussed and presented to the building official prior to the hurricane consisting of interior wall adjustments within the marina building itself where dry storage is,” City Attorney Ricinda Perry said at the meeting. “The goal of that project was to take a bunch of boat repairs which resulted in oil, gasoline and spilled chemicals of all sorts, lifts and storage of damaged and derelict vessels onsite, eliminate all of that and turn it into a functioning marina that would service people’s boats that come in and park overnight, yachts, day-trippers and create a more functioning commercial segment up there.”
She said the plans are currently being reviewed by the Bradenton Beach building department.
Holmes Beach Code Compliance Chief James “J.T.” Thomas reminds motorists, including construction workers and landscapers, not to park on the sidewalks. Those who do can be issued a ticket that carries a $75 fine. “We want people to park according to the code and we don’t want anybody parking on the sidewalks. We want all our pedestrians to be able to use the sidewalks safely,” Thomas said. He noted parking on a sidewalk can also impede the mobility of those with handicaps or other physical challenges.
Anna Maria Commission meeting at a new time this week
The Anna Maria City Commission will meet on Thursday, Jan. 23 at 10 a.m. The meeting will begin with general public comment on non-agenda items. The city attorney will present the second and final reading of an ordinance that amends the city’s waterways regulations. The commission will be asked to extend the city’s existing hurricanerelated local state of emergency declarations. The mayor and general manager will provide a capital projects update. The commission will be asked to approve separating the city clerk/city treasurer’s position into two separate positions. The commission will be asked to approve a contract with Joe Payne Inc. regarding building department services. The mayor and commission will continue their previous discussion about special event permit fees. The commission will also discuss changing the monthly city commission meeting times from 2 p.m. or 6 p.m. to 10 a.m. or 2 p.m. Thursday’s meeting can be accessed by phone, and public input can be given, by calling 1-929-205-6099 and entering the meeting ID: 85392000280.
“We had a staff meeting yesterday to make sure that was still on task,” Perry said.
Mayor John Chappie asked if the marina owner is looking to provide overnight stays on the site.
“There’s also been some talk about whether or not it would make sense financially for them to have a few rooms for overnighting, perhaps on the second floor above the Nautilus Bar looking over the water,” Perry said. “There’s also been talk about what was
Owners may ask for rezoning of Pines
BY LESLIE LAKE SUN CORRESPONDENT | llake@amisun.com
BRADENTON BEACH – While Pines Park Investors LLC has not disclosed plans for its recentlyclosed Pines Trailer Park, City Attorney Ricinda Perry shed some light on a scenario that could include a rezoning of the property.
Perry spoke about the Pines to Community Redevelopment Agency (CRA) members at a Jan. 16 meeting, saying the property owner has confirmed the planned redevelopment of the parcel.
“As we all know, the Pines has been through a back and forth, back and forth situation,” she said. “The FEMA statement that any water resulted in it being substantially damaged and had to be shut down, and then it was whether or not it would meet the 50% rule and there was some reconsideration of that.”
On Dec. 9, 83 of the 86 Pines Trailer Park homeowners had
A “for sale” sign remains on a mobile home at the recently-closed Pines Trailer Park.
received notice from the city that they could repair their hurricane-damaged mobile homes with the proper permits. On Jan. 4, however, the homeowners received notification from the park’s ownership that the park was being closed. Shawn Kaleta is the manager of Pines Park Investors.
“The property owner, when they were told on a number of
occasions that the property could not move forward, that it was essentially damaged beyond repair because of flooding from the hurricanes, invested funds to try to create tiny homes,” Perry said. “In the city’s floodplain ordinance, Mr. Gilbert (former City Building Official Steve Gilbert) had told the
JOE HENDRICKS | SUN Parking is only allowed along one side of the street in some areas.
JOE HENDRICKS | SUN
This truck was parked on the sidewalk along Holmes Boulevard.
LESLIE LAKE | SUN A sign near the Bradenton Beach Marina advertises shops and restaurants.
SEE MARINA, PAGE 18
LESLIE LAKE | SUN
Holmes Beach officials critique consolidation study
BY JOE HENDRICKS SUN CORRESPONDENT | jhendricks@amisun.com
HOLMES BEACH – The mayor and city commissioners had plenty to say about the recently released OPPAGA consolidation study and former Manatee County Commissioner Kevin Van Ostenbridge.
The 25-page consolidation study report compiled by the Florida Legislature’s Office of Program Policy Analysis and Government Accountability was provided to the Holmes Beach, Anna Maria and Bradenton Beach mayors on Jan. 8.
The report was accompanied by a two-page letter dated Jan. 9 and signed by State Rep. Will Robinson Jr. and State Sen. Jim Boyd – the state legislators who led the Manatee County Legislative Delegation’s pursuit of the consolidation study formally requested in January 2023.
The letter includes a statement that suggests that consolidation of the three Island cities is no longer a viable consideration: “The OPPAGA study confirms what we have discussed over the past year. Merging or eliminating cities could negatively impact the unique and special character of the Island and could have a detrimental impact on issues like building height.”
The OPPAGA study analyzed four potential consolidation options and the pros and cons of each option. The report included no recommendations or findings as to which consolidation option should be pursued. The report also contains detailed information about each city’s finances, public services provided, decreasing permanent resident population and more.
The state legislators’ consolidation study request partially stemmed from a beach parking dispute between Holmes Beach city officials and Van Ostenbridge and his desire to build a three-story parking garage at the county-owned Manatee Beach.
Having lost his at-large District 7 election
bid in November 2024, Van Ostenbridge is no longer a county commissioner. Tal Siddique now represents Anna Maria Island as the county’s District 3 commissioner.
City Commissioner Terry Schaefer was the first to mention the OPPAGA study during the commission’s Jan. 14 meeting.
“I thought it was unfortunate that leadership on the delegation did not mention the conclusion of the report in their cover letter to our three mayors indicating there will be no consolidation. I thought the public deserved to hear their recommendation would not include any consolidation efforts,” he said.
Commissioner Carol Whitmore opposes
the consolidation of the cities but she sees some value in the completed study.
“I loved the data, the information. It gave me a good picture of what the other two cities are doing, how much population we’ve lost and the other options,” she said.
Schaefer agreed the study provides some useful information but the conclusion to not consolidate the Island cities was something city officials and Island residents knew and supported all along.
“In this case, facts prevailed and we can now focus on the betterment of our city and our Island in general,” Schaefer said.
JOE HENDRICKS | SUN
From left, Mayor Judy Titsworth was highly critical of former county Commissioner Kevin Van Ostenbridge. Commissioner Terry Schaefer expressed his disappointment with the state legislators who requested the consolidation study. Commissioner Carol Soustek mentioned the concern and uncertainty the study created for city employees.
OPINION
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ANNA MARIA
10005 GULF DRIVE
FOR INFORMATION, CALL 941-708-6130
Please visit www.cityofannamaria.com or contact city hall for more information.
Jan. 23, 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.
Jan. 22, 10 a.m. – Pier Team meeting
Jan. 28, 9 a.m. – City Commission work meeting
Jan. 29, 1 p.m. – Scenic WAVES workshop
HOLMES BEACH
5801 MARINA DRIVE FOR INFORMATION, CALL 941-708-5800
Please visit www.holmesbeachfl. org or contact city hall for more information.
Jan. 23, 11:30 a.m. – Police officer’s pension board meeting
Jan. 28, 2 p.m. – City Commission meeting with work session to follow
Feb. 5, 3:30 p.m. – Planning Commission meeting
WEDNESDAY, JAN. 22
Creative Aging: Watercolor Magic, Island Branch Library, 5701 Marina Drive, Holmes Beach, 10 a.m.
Coquina Beach Market, 2650 Gulf Drive S., Bradenton Beach, 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.
Holy yoga, Roser Church, outdoor stage, 512 Pine Ave., Anna Maria, 11:30 a.m.
Mah-jongg for beginners, Island Branch Library, 5701 Marina Drive, Holmes Beach, 1 p.m.
One-on-One Tech Help, Island Branch Library, 5701 Marina Drive, Holmes Beach, 3:30 p.m.
THURSDAY, JAN. 23
Friends of the Island Library 2025 Lecture and Travel Series: American Rock and Roll in 1955, Island Branch Library, 5701 Marina Drive, Holmes Beach, 2 p.m.
AMI Chamber Member Gala, Key Royale Club, 700 Key Royale Drive, Holmes Beach, 5-8 p.m., $20
Nature Nights at the NEST: Sea Slugs, Robinson Preserve Mosaic NEST, 840 99th St. N.W., Bradenton, 6 p.m.
FRIDAY, JAN. 24
Wildlife Spotlight: Pelicans, Robinson Preserve expansion parking lot, 840 99th St. N.W., Bradenton, 9 a.m.
Forty Carrots toddler playtime, Island Branch Library, 5701 Marina Drive, Holmes Beach, 10 a.m.
Coquina Beach Market, 2650 Gulf Drive S., Bradenton Beach, 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.
Mah-jongg for experienced players, Island Branch Library, 5701 Marina Drive, Holmes Beach, 11:30 a.m.
SATURDAY, JAN. 25
Saturday Mornings at the NEST, Robinson Preserve Mosaic NEST, 840 99th St. N.W., Bradenton, 9 a.m. to noon
Family movie night, Island Branch Library, 5701 Marina Drive, Holmes Beach, 3:30 p.m.
SUNDAY, JAN. 26
Coquina Beach Market, 2650 Gulf Drive S., Bradenton Beach, 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.
MONDAY, JAN. 27
The Ginger Who?, Island Branch Library, 5701 Marina Drive, Holmes Beach, 9 a.m.
Gentle Yoga with Delphine, Island Branch Library, 5701 Marina Drive, Holmes Beach, 10 a.m.
Sunset Tai Chi, Robinson Preserve Mosaic NEST, 840 99th St. N.W., Bradenton, 5:30 p.m.
TUESDAY, JAN. 28
Anna Maria Community Farmers Market, The Center of Anna Maria Island, 407 Magnolia Ave., Anna Maria, 9 a.m. to 2 p.m.
Family story time, 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.
2025 Concert Series: Trevor Bystrom Band, Roser Church, 512 Pine Ave., Anna Maria, 5 p.m.
WEDNESDAY, JAN. 29
Nature art, Neal Preserve, pavilion, 12301 Manatee Ave. W., Bradenton, 9 a.m. to noon, $10
Coquina Beach Market, 2650 Gulf Drive S., Bradenton Beach, 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.
Creative Aging: Watercolor Magic, Island Branch Library, 5701 Marina Drive, Holmes Beach, 10 a.m.
Holy yoga, Roser Church, outdoor stage, 512 Pine Ave., Anna Maria, 11:30 a.m.
Mah-jongg for beginners, Island Branch Library, 5701 Marina Drive, Holmes Beach, 1 p.m.
One-on-one tech help, Island Branch Library, 5701 Marina Drive, Holmes Beach, 2-4 p.m.
THURSDAY, JAN. 30
Seaside Quilters, Island Branch Library, 5701 Marina Drive, Holmes Beach, 10 a.m.
Friends 2025 Lecture and Travel Series: Wildlife, Inc., Island Branch Library, 5701 Marina Drive, Holmes Beach, 2 p.m.
FRIDAY, JAN. 31
Coquina Beach Market, 2650 Gulf Drive S., Bradenton Beach, 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.
Forty Carrots toddler playtime, 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.
Making Sense of Medicare, Island Branch Library, 5701 Marina Drive, Holmes Beach, 2 p.m.
Island Players romp through ‘Birthday Suite’
BY JOE HENDRICKS SUN CORRESPONDENT | jhendricks@amisun.com
ANNA MARIA – Community theater lovers have until Sunday, Jan. 26 to enjoy The Island Players’ comical performance of “Birthday Suite.”
Island Players veteran Heiko Knipfelberg directed the slapstick British farce written by English playwright Robin Hawdon and rarely performed in America.
The cast features Daniel Coppinger as Tony the Italian waiter, Eric Johnson as Bob, Pamela Hopkins as Kate, Jeff McMahon as Dick and Sylvia Marnie as Liz. Marnie hails from Lancaster, England and naturally speaks with a British accent. Her fellow cast members had to adopt English or Italian accents for their roles.
Marnie is also the Island Players’ executive director. She selected “Birthday Suite”
because her sister saw it performed in England three years ago and loved it. She reached out to Hawdon and his agent directly to secure the rarely-issued American rights to perform the play.
Before the Jan. 10 performance began, Knipfelberg stepped to the front of the stage to welcome the theater patrons, share a few thoughts on the upcoming performance and to thank the play’s co-producers, Ginny’s and Jane E’s café.
The two-act tale unfolds in an English hotel in a two-room suite with adjoining rooms and a door between them that’s assumed to be locked. One by one, the four main characters arrive at their respective rooms, escorted by Tony, whose frequent intrusions help propel the chaos and absurdity that ensues.
First to arrive is Bob, a nervous, neurotic and quite tall civil servant who on his
birthday seeks a ‘naughty night out’ as a reprieve from his failing marriage.
Next to arrive is Kate, a cautious, conventional and lonely boutique clerk in search of a meaningful relationship.
Third to arrive is Dick, a divorced psychiatrist who’s more adept at dispensing relationship advice than navigating his own romantic endeavors. His idea of a
perfect date is a quiet dinner in a non-public setting.
Last to arrive is Liz, an attractive and assertive English housewife whose marriage is on the rocks.
Two of the guests find themselves at the hotel thanks to the matchmaking efforts of Bob’s never-seen friend, Geoff Tippet. The other two are making their first foray into computer dating.
Hovering over the forlorn quartet and their increasingly flummoxed waiter is the mystery of Mimi, the no-show prostitute whose unknown whereabouts contribute to the confusion and hilarity – with Liz and Kate both mistaken as fellow members of Mimi’s erotic profession.
Although their accents are different, Coppinger’s energetic portrayal of Tony is reminiscent of John Banner’s classic portrayal of Sgt. Hans Georg Schultz, the endearing and bumbling German prison camp guard from the old “Hogan’s Heroes” sitcom. And as he tries to figure who’s with who and where they are at any given moment, Tony’s rapidfire dialogue harkens back to Abbott and Costello’s classic “Who’s on First” sketch. Fueled by British humor, champagne, liquor, melon, filet mignon, loneliness,
SEE PLAYERS, PAGE 13
JOE HENDRICKS | SUN
“Birthday Suite” unfolds in a hotel suite with adjoining rooms.
Major development hearing required for Drift-In tiki
BY LESLIE LAKE SUN CORRESPONDENT | llake@amisun.com
BRADENTON BEACH – The construction of the tiki hut at the Drift-In is on hold pending further review by the city.
City Attorney Ricinda Perry said at a Jan. 16 city commission meeting that a permit approved by Building Official Darin Cushing for the construction should not have been issued based on factors which included the city-owned easements on the property as well as the size of the new tiki structure. She said the project should be classified as a major development and must undergo the hearing process.
“This was administratively approved, and it should have gone through a public hearing,” Perry said. “Legally I believe it should have been a major development.”
The discussion was a continuation of a discussion at a Dec. 19 city commission meeting, and at that meeting Perry said: “If there’s was a modification to the size of the structure that exceeded 10%, that becomes a major development approval, and a major development approval needs to go through a P&Z review and a city commission approval.”
“There was an increase in the size,” Perry said. “Under the old application it was 13 by 15 feet and the current one is 54 by 24, that’s a 450% increase.
That increase triggered a major development.”
She questioned whether that would change the classification of the tiki area from an accessory use to a principal use.
Perry said the property owner was informed recently that the city required a major development application.
“I reminded the property owner two weeks ago before starting to pour concrete floors and doing the work I made the legal statement anything you do going forward from this meeting is at your own risk,” she said.
Perry said if someone voluntarily tears down a structure, it comes with the unintended consequences of setting a precedent.
“I know two property owners on the street are asking to have their easement modified,” Perry said. “My concern is when we start saying OK, we’ll let you modify this easement when you voluntarily rip this out, what does that mean for the other easements?”
The attorney for Drift-In owner Derek Williams may be asking the city for modification of the existing easements, one of which goes through the building.
“Derek’s attorney (Scott Rudacille) is supposed to get us some data that we need coming in to review a month or so,” Perry told the commission.
“I have asked Scott Rudacille
to provide us with the revised easement they want to consider. As this is coming to you for your review in a month or so, you have a responsibility to protect that easement. You can modify it however you want to modify it.”
Perry said she is not in favor of relinquishing the easements.
“When you have an easement and someone is infringing on it, I don’t care that there’s a mistake that comes out of the building department,” Perry said. “You’re interfering with the public right which trumps your building department permit.”
Another issue with the tiki structure is its material, according to Perry.
“There was a directive (at the Dec. 19 meeting) to make sure that public works, the Police
Department and West Manatee Fire District were aware of what this application was and had an ability to comment on this.”
Perry said she was told by the fire marshal during a meeting that the West Manatee Fire District does not allow for a thatched roof and it must be replaced with synthetic materials.
“Derek stated at the meeting, ‘I spent $80,000 now you’re telling me I have to rip it off? Who’s going to pay for it?’ Good question,” Perry said. “In my opinion, this all could have been avoided if WMFD knew what the application was. It does come at a cost after the fact to the property owner.”
Fire Marshal Rodney Kwiatkowski placed a red tag on the tiki hut pending further review,
Perry said.
“Once the fire marshal is satisfied, he’ll lift the red tags,” Cushing said.
“I followed it to a ‘t’ and now it’s all come crashing down on me,” Williams said. “I would say go back to that permit that was approved.”
Mayor John Chappie said there should have been two separate permits.
“Is he doing improvements inside?” Commissioner Scott Bear asked. “Can he open inside while we resolve outside?”
“If you let them proceed and operate, you are helping them identify business damages they could lose and we would have exposure,” Perry said.
Chappie said he would be hesitant in allowing the business to open before the major development process is complete.
“I’m working to resolve this. I want to go through this the right way and I did,” Williams said. “I just want to open the business and get back on track.”
Williams asked how the process could be expedited.
“A major development application goes through the P&Z meeting in February and goes to the commission the end of February, beginning of March,” Perry said. “For changes in the land development code, a 30-day public notice is mandated.”
LESLIE LAKE | SUN
Drift-In tiki hut construction is on hold as city officials require a public hearing.
CENTER NOTES
Anna Maria Community Farmers Market
Visit the Anna Maria Community Farmers Market on Tuesdays from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. at The Center of Anna Maria Island sports field. Shop from local vendors offering art, produce, baked goods, meat, clothing, w, beverages, massages and more at 407 Magnolia Ave.
To register for Center programs or for more information, email The Center at hello@centerami.org or call 941-778-1908.
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Planning commission will not review site plans
Planning commission hoped to be included in the site plan application review process.
BY JOE HENDRICKS SUN CORRESPONDENT | jhendricks@amisun.com
HOLMES BEACH – At the advice of City Attorney Erica Augello, city commissioners plan to deny the planning commission’s request to conduct preliminary reviews of major site plan applications.
Augello also advised that major site plan applications not be preliminarily discussed during non-quasi-judicial city commission work meetings.
A site plan is a diagram that illustrates a proposed development, redevelopment or significant improvements desired by a property owner.
Augello dispensed her legal advice on Jan. 14 while Holmes Beach city
mended inserting additional language that would allow them conduct public hearings to review major site plan applications for consistency with the city’s comprehensive plan and land development code. This would be done before the city commission conducts its quasi-judicial public hearing on the site plan application.
commissioners and Director of Development Services Chad Minor discussed proposed changes to the city’s site plan application review processes. The proposed changes are set forth in Ordinance 25-02 and the ordinance was presented on first reading that day. Adoption is expected during the second and final reading on Tuesday, Jan. 28.
Currently, the planning commission does not review major site plan applications before the city commission conducts an evidence- and testimonybased quasi-judicial public hearing on the proposed site plan.
When initially reviewing the proposed ordinance last year, the planning commissioners recom-
The planning commission’s proposed language was included in the ordinance presented to city commissioners on Jan. 14. Regarding the proposed inclusion of the planning commission in the site plan application review process, City Commissioner Carol Whitmore said, “I don’t support this. This is not a planning commission role. This is one of the biggest jobs of the commission and we should be taking the responsibility for it.”
OPPAGA: Holmes Beach officials critique consolidation study
FROM PAGE 5
Commission Chair Dan Diggins succinctly said, “Hopefully, we can just turn the OPPAGA page.”
Mayor Judy Titsworth said, “I sleep better at night. We all know what was really behind the OPPAGA study. This was wrong, but the commissioner (Van Ostenbridge) was probably the worst district representative we’ve had in the history of our city. He was vengeful and thank God he’s gone. We are so lucky to have someone like Tal. We couldn’t ask for a nicer, more committed representative for our city.”
Titsworth also noted there’s not enough support among current county commissioners to continue the pursuit of the now-defunded parking garage.
“I’m so glad that’s behind us as well,” she said.
When the OPPAGA study came up again later in the meeting, Titsworth said, “Everything’s positive from here on out. I believe they’re going to quit picking on us.”
She then thanked the city officials, residents and community members who opposed consolidation and the parking garage.
Whitmore said she served with one of Van Ostenbridge’s uncles many years
ago, during her previous tenure as a city commissioner.
“KVO is not the Van Ostenbridge family that I know,” she said.
She also served on the county commission with Van Ostenbridge.
“I will never forgive that man for what he did to all of us,” she said.
Commissioner Carol Soustek said, “The people who initiated this OPPAGA study did not take into account the effect it had on so many people’s personal lives. All the city employees were upset. They thought they were going to lose their jobs. It was unnecessary, vindictive and I was very disappointed in the elected leaders.”
Soustek applauded the stand taken by Titsworth and the Holmes Beach commission. She also thanked Hands Across the Sand director and consolidation protest organizer Barbara Ehren and all those who opposed the consolidation of the Island cities.
“I’m very happy to see the results, but it’s exactly what the mayor was saying all along,” Soustek said. “It was a degrading thing to go through for the cities when they had so many other things they needed to do. It put a black mark on the judgment of Tallahassee (state legislators). I was very disappointed,” she said.
JOE HENDRICKS | SUN City Attorney Erica Augello advised against the planning commission reviewing major site plans.
JOE HENDRICKS | SUN City Commissioner Carol Whitmore believes site plan reviews are the responsibility of the city commission.
BEACH BEAT
HOLMES BEACH
Jan. 13, 10:12 a.m., Gulf Drive, suspicious circumstances. A manager at Bali Hai Beach Resort reported that an unknown male was observed in a room that was not rented to anyone, loaded his luggage into a vehicle and left the scene. There were no signs of forced entry and it appeared that the individual had used the bed and bathroom. There was no damage observed and it was unknown how long the man had been there.
PLAYERS: Romp through ‘Birthday Suite’
FROM PAGE 8
uncertainty, apprehension, sexual tension and a quest for companionship, the four main characters, their waiter and some unexpected interlopers embark on a farcical evening that leads to a comedic climax.
“Birthday Suite” delivers a five-star evening of community theater and the Anna Maria Island community is fortunate to have such a talented cast and crew lend their time and talents to the Island Players 76th season and they should be applauded, literally and figuratively, for their efforts and excellence.
Up next for the Island Players is “Death by Design,” a murder mystery/comedy that opens on March 13 and runs through March 30.
Jan. 13, 1:47 p.m., 100 block of 31st Street, loitering. A male was observed by police walking in the roadway, carrying two grocery bags of trash and a blanket. Police say the man threw the blanket and trash into the street and ran across Gulf Drive to a closed business and attempted to open the locked doors. Police told the man to get on the ground, but he took off running. Officers deployed their Taser during the chase. In previous suspicious person calls about the man, callers reported him lingering outside a house and setting up camp in different areas. He was arrested for loitering and resisting an officer without violence and received a citation for unlawful disposal of trash in the street.
The Island Players theater is located at 10009 Gulf Drive in Anna Maria. “Birthday Suite” tickets are $18-$28. During theatrical runs, the box office is open Monday-Saturday from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. and before each show. The box office phone number is 941-778-5755. Tickets can also be purchased at the Island Players website, www.TheIslandPlayers.org.
RESTRUCTURE: Commissioners discuss restructuring building department
Dec. 15, 2023 retirement of former building official Steve Gilbert. Cushing has been a licensed building official since 2005.
“There’s some differences that need to be addressed so that we can function a lot better for our community and our property owners,” Chappie said. “There’s been some concern and bumps in the road that made it a little more challenging than it needed to be at times. I want to set up a work meeting so we can take action and discuss the overall functions of the building department and the comparisons to actually having an employee.”
City Attorney Ricinda Perry noted that as a contractor, Cushing does not have the same authority over the building department as a department head.
“There’s this whole reassessment of what is working
and what isn’t working and how do we properly supervise the department,” Perry said.
“You need somebody who has that authority under the employee handbook. I will tell you by state statute the building official is the chief code enforcement officer for a municipality.”
She said the hurricanes magnified weaknesses and also shed some light on the strengths of an independent contractor.
“This department is under a tremendous amount of demand right now, a very high level of demand and that department is under tremendous strain. They are in our next phase of recovery and a critical component for getting permits turned around so people can return to their normal life,” Perry said. “It is also critical for turning over the properties that are damaged and are being redeveloped or
rebuilt for purposes of getting those properties back on the tax rolls.”
Prior to the November return of Gilbert and the arrival of a team of 20 inspectors provided by the state to assist with damage assessments, Cushing had been tasked with evaluating the damage to hundreds of storm-affected homes citywide since Hurricane Helene on Sept. 26.
Perry asked the commission to assess whether the city needs more resources or restructuring to go back to an employee scenario.
“We need to get information from you as to what you need and solve the problem, but I agree with the mayor that a separate work meeting is needed at this point, it’s critical,” Perry said.
“I believe this is something that needs to be discussed and addressed,” Commissioner Deborah Scaccianoce said.
Commissioner Scott Bear asked what the expectations are from those under contract.
“Prior to the meeting we’ll look at their contract to see what services they’re supposed to be providing,” Bear said. “That would help us understand what we’d want from any employee as well.”
A work meeting is scheduled for Tuesday, Jan. 28 at 9 a.m. at the Katie Pierola Commission Chambers, 107 Gulf Drive N.
LESLIE LAKE | SUN
The Bradenton Beach commission discussed restructuring its building department on Jan. 16. Clockwise from left are Commissioner Jan Vosburgh, Mayor John Chappie, Commissioners Scott Bear and Deborah Scaccianoce, City Attorney Ricinda Perry and Deputy Clerk Bianca Martinez.
OUTDOORS
Fly casting fundamentals explained
Reel Time
’ve heard anglers say, “It’s just like riding a bike.” That’s true in the sense that it’s a learning experience that has to be practiced to be mastered. When we learned to ride a bike we often forget that we fell off a few times but persisted until we ditched the training wheels and someone to steady the bike. Then we were on that bike every chance we got and in so doing are able to ride to this day without giving it much thought. In neuroscience, it’s referred to as Hebb’s Rule and states that neurons that fire together wire together, and that’s how we build habits, good and bad. That’s why it’s important to learn and practice proper casting
techniques. The basic casting stroke consists of the rod being held in the dominant hand at the base of the fingers with the thumb on top of the cork. The stroke is a combination of moves of the wrist, the forearm and the upper arm. In the “ready” position with the thumb on the cork, the wrist is straight and the butt of the rod is at a 45-degree angle to the forearm. The wrist travels from this “straight” position to a 45-degree down angle then returns to straight position. The forearm and the upper arm complete the motion.
There are five basic movements that are considered essential:
1. There must be a pause at the end of each casting stroke, which varies in duration with the amount of line beyond the rod tip. This allows the line to straighten for the next cast. “Watch your back cast until you’ve mastered the timing.”
2. Slack line should be kept to an absolute minimum. Slack line
prevents the rod from loading and applying the proper power to the cast. The most common mistake that creates slack line happens when the rod is started too high, forming a belly in the line between the rod tip and the water. To prevent this, start your cast with the rod tip pointing at the water.
3. In order to form the most efficient, least air resistant loops and to direct the energy of the cast toward the target, the rod tip must move in a relatively straight line. Practice tracing a horizontal line like a roof eve.
4. The length of the casting stroke must vary with the amount of line past the rod tip. If you are making a short cast there is only a small amount of line needed (which only weighs a small amount). As the length of line increases, the stroke must be increased to load the rod.
5. Power must be applied in the proper amount at the proper place in
RUSTY CHINNIS
RUSTY CHINNIS | SUN
The late Lefty Kreh, a fly casting legend, was a master at teaching novices the art of fly casting. SEE REEL TIME, PAGE 17
Red tide detected in Manatee County
The red tide organism, Karenia brevis, was observed at very low to medium concentrations in Manatee County by the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC) on Jan. 16. Very low concentrations were reported at the Palma Sola Bay Bridge, low concentrations were reported at the Longboat Pass Boat Ramp and medium concentrations were reported at the former location of the Rod & Reel Pier. No fish kills suspected to be related to red tide were reported over the past week offshore of Manatee County, according to the FWC. To track statewide reports, visit: https://myfwc.com/research/ redtide/statewide/ Call 866300-9399 to hear a recording about red tide conditions throughout the state.
HOTEL: Project will begin construction this year
REEL TIME: Fly casting fundamentals
FROM PAGE 16
the stroke. In general, the power is applied slowly at first, gradually increasing to a peak at the end of the stroke. There should be a crisp stop at the end of the stroke, forcing the rod to come out of its bend. This is commonly referred to as the “speed-up and stop.”
Like riding a bike, playing tennis or golf, the only way to master fly casting is to practice on a regular basis. Create a practice schedule that you can stick to. Start by practicing short sessions on a regular basis. Regular practice is more important than the amount of time you spend and will build a good habit. Commit to five minutes every day. Any additional time will be a bonus,
FROM PAGE 1
“It’s nice to hear Bridge Street hotel is moving forward with their project,” Mayor John Chappie said.
Building Official Darin Cushing said he has not yet received updated plans from the hotel applicants.
Perry’s update was one of three she presented on Kaleta-owned projects at the CRA meeting. The others were a possible rezoning of the Pines Trailer Park and conceptual plans to eliminate dry storage at Bradenton Beach Marina and add retail and restaurants there.
The Sun reached out to a representative for Kaleta for comment, but no response was received by press time.
but the importance of a regular practice schedule cannot be over-emphasized. We never get as much time on the water as we want and can spend months anticipating a special trip to destinations like the Bahamas, Argentina and Montana. Spending time to master fly casting will pay dividends when you see that fish of a lifetime and raise your rod to make a cast.
LESLIE LAKE | SUN
The future site of the hotel project at Gulf Drive and Bridge Street is being used as a public paid parking lot.
PINES: Owners may ask for rezoning MARINA: City reviewing planned changes
FROM PAGE 4
property owner that you could elevate these to a certain height, which is going to change in May. Turns out that was not the case and they got those engineered and presented to make a tiny home village to kind of keep it looking like the Pines and it had to actually to be much, much higher and look like a stilted community, which aesthetically is not where we want to go with that.”
She said financially it didn’t make sense for the ownership to put in stilted tiny homes.
“So that is actually being reworked and I can tell you preliminarily it’s looking like some type of mixed-development that’s going to salvage as much of the character that’s there,” Perry said. “But obviously with the ones that are fully damaged, it’s going to have to adjust and change based off of our floodplain ordinance, and come into compliance with that.
“So, the property owner had preliminary discussions with staff,” Perry said. “The discus -
sion with them was pretty much anything they’re going to do would likely need to come through a PUD so that we can assess it on a very specific basis and it will go through the land planning agency and then to the commission. So, yes, a rezone to me is absolutely necessary.”
The Pines Trailer Park is currently zoned M-1, and according to the city’s Land Development Code, permitted uses are single-family mobile home units, manufactured homes, park trailers, preservation uses and conservation uses.
“The Pines, we’ll probably be talking about at the commission meeting,” Mayor John Chappie said. “The zoning for that is going to have to change, so there’s going to have to be applications.”
As of Jan. 16, Building Official Darin Cushing said his office has not received applications for rezoning.
The Sun reached out to Kaleta’s representative for comment, but did not receive a response.
FROM PAGE 4
described to me as a staging area for food trucks and bands and a kids playground. Right now, the only thing that’s been presented to Darin (Building Official Darin Cushing) was just taking the internal side of that, partitioning it off and taking out the dry storage and putting in shops and restaurants.”
Perry said she can’t bind the property owner to specific plans, but said, “The plan as I understood is to eliminate all the dry storage inside, all of the boat repairs that are inside and install retail, restaurants that you can access from the outside as you’re walking down both sides of that marina.”
Perry noted the marina’s docks sustained damage during Hurricane Helene.
“The property owner (Shawn Kaleta) has shared with me that they had gotten an original price quote
in the millions to repair the docks that were damaged from Hurricane Helene,” Perry said. “You cannot get those docks insured, so all of that is out of pocket loss and damage to that property owner, that’s why it’s been a little bit slow trying to get that turned around. They’ve gotten some additional quotes that are more feasible financially. I think you’re going to see that property turned back around again.”
ROSS BUILT: builds generational home on Jewfish Key
FROM PAGE 1
in the third-story bedrooms and den. It now serves as a second home for a millennial-aged Sarasota couple, their 11-year-old daughter, their 9-year-old son and their extended family members. The family first occupied the home during the Christmas holidays.
“It’s their weekend getaway. The house is designed so everyone can roam free during the day and come inside and gather at night. That’s why it has so many sleeping spaces,” Ross said.
The homeowners provided the design documents created by Beacon Home Design principal designer and company founder A.J. Barnard. Longtime Ross Built employee Rob Fehd served as project supervisor. Ross served as the interior designer and Holmes Beach-based Original Sand Dollar retail store owner Julia Duytschaver provided the interior décor.
Located on a small, 12-parcel island in Sarasota Bay, off the northern tip of Longboat Key and the southern tip of Bradenton Beach, the home has a Longboat Key address. Florida Power and Light provides electrical service but county water and sewage service are not available. An artesian well provides the fresh water and sewage discharges into a septic tank.
The only way to access the home and the shared dock on the other side of the island is by boat or other watercraft. Construction materials were delivered by boat or barge and transported from the dock or shoreline to the job site by Bobcats and skid steers. Construction workers and others associated with the project were transported to the job site in a boat captained by Tom Mora, with the South Coquina boat ramp serving as the pickup point.
Construction took 18-20 months, including time lost to the hurricanes.
“A couple king tides and a couple hurricanes impacted the schedule,” Ross said.
Building a home struck by back-to-back hurricanes heightened Ross’s appreciation for the stricter building codes construction companies must follow to help mitigate hurricane and storm damage.
“When we pulled up the day after Helene to check the damage, we found the rules worked because they saved the house,” Ross said. “The house performed beautifully. We had no water intrusion on the upper levels. We took on 3 feet of water on the ground level, but the water came and left and everything was fine.”
The ground-level interior space features flowthrough flood vents and a floor made of pressure treated lumber.
“We had paperless drywall in there before Helene hit and it performed pretty well. After Helene, we replaced it with cementitious board that can be pressure washed.”
The wood floor features an abstract fish head pattern created by a local 16-year-old artist.
“We wanted it to look like an old store from the 1920s,” Ross said, noting another artist painted a horseshoe crab on one of the foyer walls.
The ground-level interior space can be used for storage, recreation and other activities, but cannot be used as sleeping space/living space per FEMA regulations.
The home’s exterior is covered with fireproof Hardie fiber cement siding and the doors and windows are hurricane impact rated. The waterfront yard
features a deck, a circular hot tub, a nautilus-shaped outdoor shower, a fire pit and a private beach.
INTERIOR DESIGN
We focused on the materiality of sand, beachy colors, driftwood tones and hints of blue and green to represent the water. There’s also a lot of white, like an old-fashioned beach house,” Ross said. The second-floor dining area features a custommade table built of ebony wood selected by the family.
JOE HENDRICKS | SUN
The master bedroom includes a four-post bed.
SEE ROSS BUILT, PAGE 22
JOE HENDRICKS | SUN
The dining area features an ebony wood table.
JOE HENDRICKS | SUN
The second-story deck overlooks Sarasota Bay and Longboat Pass.
JOE HENDRICKS | SUN
This bedroom includes a bed and bunk beds.
JOE HENDRICKS | SUN
A local artist painted a horseshoe crab on one of the foyer walls.
REAL ESTATE
Murphy’s laws in full operation
We’re living through the time of Murphy’s Laws. Murphy’s Laws encompass a series of life’s les sons, all of them meant to be a warning not to get too comfortable with the way things are.
Florida residents were victims of some of Murphy’s Laws last year. One of them, “Nature always sides with the hidden flaw,” and “If there is a possibility of several things going wrong, the one that will go wrong is the one that will cause the most damage.” Did we on the central west coast of Florida get too comfortable with our relationship to hurricanes, and did we start believing the old Indian sacred burial ground stories? Maybe, but as Murphy’s Laws state, “If everything seems to be going well, you have obviously overlooked something.”
Castles in the Sand
names and phone numbers. The first call I received from a neighbor after the storm passed was did I know a sheetrock contractor, the first of many who would ask that question.
grocery stores, car breakdowns and relatives who want to come down for their winter vacation and don’t or can’t really appreciate the level of damage we were living through.
Island will change.
Now in the aftermath of the storms and the effort to rebuild, we have a new set of issues to deal with. Hiring workers to help rebuild has become a cottage industry for island and coastal residents trading stories,
Practically everyone I know is looking for painters, finishers, shutter repair companies and, most of all, hairdressers who are open and running. Even after the electricity was restored, Wi-Fi was slow and intermittent, preventing residents from researching and filing claims. Parents with school age children had additional stress when AMI Elementary was closed.
In the midst of all this uncertainty, most of us still had to deal with the normal everyday issues of life; shortages in the
The first day of the California wildfires, I was sitting in my living room looking at my still not fully repaired loft ceiling feeling sorry for myself and was suddenly jolted into reality about the important things in life. Unfortunately, Los Angeles County has experienced possibly the worst human tragedy imaginable. As terrible as a strong hurricane is, at least you have a home or part of a home to go back to. Californians in most of the fireball areas have literally nothing to go home to.
In my mind, everything is always about real estate, and I’m not far off since homes represent the majority of wealth that Americans accrue. Many of the residents of these burnt-out properties will eventually sell to developers and investors, which will change the complexion of their neighborhoods much like I expect Anna Maria
In addition, Los Angeles is victim to another of Murphy’s Laws, the one that says, “In any field of endeavor, anything that can go wrong, will go wrong.” Again, unfortunately for the residents of Los Angeles, their elected and appointed officials appear to have dropped the ball in several areas. We in Manatee County should forever be grateful for the fast action of both the county and the state governments in getting us back to normal quickly. I won’t forget how I felt a couple of days after the storm when I saw our governor standing next to 5 feet of sand in Bradenton Beach.
Finally, Murphy’s Law says, “Left to themselves, things always go from bad to worse.” The lesson here is to take action and control in order to get your lives back. The real estate market will come back with a vengeance because we have something to sell that few areas do.
Thoughts and prayers to the residents of Los Angeles.
LOUISE BOLGER
OBITUARIES
James Nicholas McParland
We are saddened to announce the passing of our husband, father, grandfather, brother, uncle, cousin and friend, Jim McParland, of Holmes Beach, Florida. He passed away peacefully with the love of his life, Lee, by his side on Jan. 8, 2025.
Jim’s biggest joy was spending time with his family, and he is survived by his wife of 56 years, Lee McParland; his daughter, Keri (Brian) Whiting, of Victoria, British Columbia; and son, Nick (Ginny) McParland, of Madison, Connecticut. He was an adored Pop Pop to his grandchildren, Liam, Jameson and Camryn McParland, never missing a sporting event, special occasion or moment to provide life advice. Jim was a favorite uncle to many nieces and nephews, always cherishing time with each and every one of them and just so proud of all of their accomplishments. Additionally,
Jim is survived by his sister, Margaret Paeth; sister-in-law, Barbara (Herb) Cole; and brothers-in-law, Tom Flaherty, Alan Rugman and John (Nancy) Rugman. Jim is preceded in death by his parents, James and Hannah; brother, Bill; sister-in-law, Jean; sister, Ann; father-in-law, George Rugman; mother-in-law, Lenore Rugman; and brother-in-law, George Rugman.
Jim was born in Boston, Massachusetts on July 24, 1939, to parents James and Hannah McParland. The majority of his childhood was spent in Jamaica Plains just outside Boston making many lifelong friends. He loved sharing stories of their shenanigans and his experiences as an A student.
He married the love his life, Lee, on Dec. 14, 1968. They settled and loved their life in Cheshire, Connecticut, where they raised their children and built their dream home. The time in Cheshire was highlighted by forming many incredible friendships that Jim enjoyed right until the end. Lee and Jim raised their family with love, hard work, joy and dedication to the community. They were long-time members of the Farms Country Club in Wallingford, Connecticut, where
Jim enjoyed his regular golf matches and made yet more great friends. Jim had a remarkable career and was very proud of the work he did providing a better life for working people as business agent, financial secretary/treasurer and executive director of the benefit funds for the International Union of Operating Engineers Local 478 in Hamden, Connecticut. Jim spent the last years of his career as the executive director of the Connecticut Coalition of TaftHartley Health Funds. Jim was known as an innovative labor leader and was instrumental in the adoption of one of the first project labor agreements in Connecticut and multi-trade health care coalitions which continue today to make an incredible impact for millions of union families across America.
Jim and Lee spent the last 17 years in retirement on Anna Maria Island, Florida. After coming from such humble beginnings, Jim was so proud to be able to call that paradise home and share it with his family and friends. During those years, Jim continued his passion for golf in Florida, where he was a member of IMG Academy Golf Club and the Key Royale Club. Jim and Lee always enjoyed a constant flow of visitors and
loved sharing with them the beautiful beaches, great people and incredible sunsets on AMI.
Jim touched countless lives with his wisdom, quick wit, incredible storytelling, endless flow of jokes and unwavering love of his family. Jim was a big personality and loved to talk to anyone and everyone, always wanting to know about their story. We will miss his stories and recaps of his everyday interactions.
Jim’s family would like to thank everyone who has been a support through this difficult time. We will miss Jim every day but carry on his legacy by stopping to reflect regularly on great times together and look back on him with a smile and laugh about all the incredible experiences and memories.
Jim’s family asks that anyone interested in recognizing him do so through donations to charities near and dear to his heart: Roser Food Pantry https://roserchurch.com and Hope After Loss https://www. hopeafterloss.org/ Brown & Sons Funeral Homes & Crematory 43rd Street Chapel, 604 43rd St. W., Bradenton, FL 34209, is in charge of arrangements.
ROSS BUILT: Builds generational home on Jewfish Key
“It weighs about 500 pounds and it took seven people to get it in and out of the boat and into the house,” Ross said.
The concrete kitchen countertop features embedded shells collected by the family. The kitchen features an induction range and a workstation sink.
The living room features a notable ceiling element: “We found some wood floating around after the hurricane and built some abstract fishbones coming out of the living room ceiling,” Ross said.
“The client wanted a connection with the outdoor spaces so we have a lot of deck space. We have bi-fold glass doors open up to the bay so it looks like you’re sitting on the water,” she said.
The second-story master bedroom features a modern four-post bed, a tile floor that resembles driftwood and a Capiz shell chandelier.
“With opalescent tile on the wall, the master bath is like being inside a conch shell,” Ross said.
“The Original Sand Dollar provided the interior décor. Julia knocked it out of the park and she’s never done this before,” Ross said.
“It was a big honor to work with Lee Ross,” Duytschaver said. “It was a big undertaking and we worked on the project for more than a year. We did the tabletops, the bedding, the bookshelves, the wall art, the photographs and more. Gillian Crago works with me and we did the install.”
SUPERVISOR’S SENTIMENTS
During the December visit, Fehd and his crew were knocking out the final punch list items. This was the first home he built on an island accessible by boat only.
“It requires a lot of coordination and it takes a little longer to build out here because of that,” Fehd said. “I really enjoyed the process. I like getting on the boat in the morning and coming over here. Going through two hurricanes and being a small part of this process has been really gratifying. It’s a feather in the cap. Lee really made the house a home with her interior design details and the furnishings she picked out. Lee brought the house to life.”
JOE HENDRICKS | SUN
The fire pit sits near the Sarasota Bay shoreline.
The living room includes décor items selected by Julia Duytschaver.
FROM PAGE 19
BY MONICA SIMPSON SPECIAL TO THE SUN
Teens back on the gridiron
ANNA MARIA – The winter break is over, school is back in session, and the youth flag football season started last Monday night on the Island.
Winter flag football action ensued on The Center gridiron with the tweens and teens. The younger players played their first games with preseason fun and action jamboree-style.
The eight 11- to 14-year-old league teams played their first games of the season. Poppos Taqueria, Jiffy Lube, Sato Real Estate and Solid Rock Air Conditioning took home the first wins of the season for the age group.
The teens, rostering a full league with six teams, played three games last week to start the season. Cortez Florida Vacation and Moss Builders handily defeated their opponents, Solid Rock Air Conditioning and Reel Coastal Properties, respectively.
In the second 14- to 17-year-old league match-up, Solid Rock Electrical faced team HSH Design. Both teams
struggled to find the end zone on offense during two halves of play, but defenses for each squad had their shining moments in the 7-6 nailbiter.
The one-point conversion by Henry Dugan after his touchdown catch from quarterback Victor Albrecht made the ultimate difference in the game for team Solid Rock Electrical.
On defense, Solid Rock’s Dugan had three sacks on the HSH Design QB and three flag pulls to his credit. Albrecht added an interception to his season statistics, while teammates Kegan McGlade and Kaleb Romagnino had a total of three defensive stops. Making his mark on the field for HSH Design was Jack Mattick on defense. In addition to two flag pulls, Mattick picked off the pass of the Solid Rock quarterback. His interception resulted in the six points his team put on the scoreboard.
Playing hard to keep HSH in the game on offense, Chase Castagna had three catches. Teammate Jaxon Kagin caught a pass to gain critical yardage.
Additional defensive pressure by Sterling Holiday and Kyle Castagna with big flag pulls helped keep their team in the game. C. Castagna only enhanced his game stats with two defensive stops of his own.
Despite the continued efforts of both teams, at the final second of the game, the missed point after the HSH Design TD gave Solid Rock Electrical their first win of 2025.
Miller named Clean Water Committee chair
Dr. Jennifer Miller now chairs the city of Holmes Beach’s Clean Water Ad Hoc Committee. Toward the end of the committee’s Jan. 8 meeting, original committee chair Ron Huibers announced his desire to step down as the chair after three years but remain on the committee. He nominated Miller to succeed him and the other members unanimously supported the nomination. Before that occurred, the members discussed the committee’s 2025 priorities and reviewed its 2024 priorities. The 2024 priorities and likely 2025 priorities include algae bloom mitigation and remediation, advocacy and partnering with other
Ron Huibers passed the chair’s gavel to new committee chair Dr. Jennifer Miller.
water quality-minded organizations, assisting with the development of water quality-related city ordinances, increasing storm and floodwater resiliency and protecting drinking water quality. The 2025 priorities will be discussed again at the committee’s next
meeting. Public Works Superintendent Sage Kamiya informed the committee that the city’s request for grant money to purchase an algae harvester was denied but he could continue to search for the needed funds.
Sofran, Shank victors
Tim Sofran, left, and Adin Shank ended up in the winner's circle at AMI Horseshoes on Jan. 15 after a 24-0 victory over Gene Bobeldyk and Tom Skoloda in the final. Sofran also won the day’s competition on Jan. 18 after walking his way to the only 3-0 record during pool play.
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
OUTDOOR YOGA at Roser Church returns January 15th! Experience the Holy Spirit in a whole new way. All levels, no experience necessary. Bring a mat and a friend! 11:30am-12:30pm info@Roserchurch.com
BOATS
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KAYAK- 2 PERSON, sit on top of- Lifetime, Kokanee model. 10.5 ft 2 paddles, 2 anchors, wheel dolly, $285, Call 614-352-5499
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
RARE OPPORTUNITY TO RENT all inclusive executive office space in Holmes Beach. Great frontage and advertisement visibility. Great for realtors, contractors, accountants, lawyers, etc. Electric and water included. 3 offices available. Suite 101 Approx. 200sf. $700.00 month $500.00 deposit Suite 104 Approx. 400sf. $800.00 month $500.00 deposit Suite 106 Approx. 400sf. $650.00 month $500.00 deposit. Call 941-746-8666
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
SHELL DELIVERED AND spread. Hauling all kinds of gravel, mulch, top soil with free estimates. Call Larry at 941795-7775, "shell phone" 941-720-0770
{SHELL DRIVEWAYS & LANDSCAPE}. Specializing in Old Florida Seashell and Lime rock driveways and scapes. Also River Rock, Sand, Mulch, & Soil. Call Shark Mark 941-301-6067
DEVINE DESIGN LANDSCAPE - Professional Landscape and Design Services for your entire property. Irrigation services, Tree Removal and trimming, Sod, Mulch, Fencing, Pavers and Landscape Lighting. Commercial and Residential. Call 941-4656015 DevineDesign7@ yahoo.com
MOVING & STORAGE
MARTIN’S MOVING YOUR Island movers! Offering dependable, competitive rates. No hidden costs. 941-8095777.
PAINTING & WALLCOVERING
PAINT! PAINT! AND MORE 28 years of experienced interior/exterior custom painting. Pressure cleaning, drywall repairs and texture finishes. Many Island references. Please call Neil for free estimates. 941-812-0507
DONALD PERKINS ABRACADABRA PAINTING LLC fully insured. 30 years experience. Many Island references. Call 941-705-7096
PROFESSIONAL PAINTING SERVICES. Prompt & Reliable. Island Resident. Quality Workmanship. Interior/Exterior. Minor repairs & carpentry. Free estimates. Bill Witaszek 941-307-9315
PEST CONTROL
ANNA MARIA PEST CONTROL Call 941-7781630
POOL SERVICES
FOUR SEASONS POOL SERVICE AND CHEMICAL SERVICES. Certified Pool Operator. 18 + Years Experience. Residential/commercial. Chemical Service Licensed & Insured. Call Dennis Clark 941-7375657
COLE'S TROPICAL POOL SERVICE Call Cole Bowers for all your pool maintenance needs! Affordable and Dependable!! 941-7131893
PRESSURE WASHING & WINDOWS
TOTAL HOME SERVICES CLEANING: Residential, Commercial, Construction, Vacation, VRBO Rentals . Also available Pressure Washing, Roof Cleaning, Paver Sealing and Windows. Call 941-5653931.
REAL ESTATE HOMES & CONDOS FOR SALE
Have you been thinking of selling? We NEED properties to List for SALE!!! GULF FRONT, CANAL FRONT, BAY FRONT CONDOS or HOMES ASK for BIG Alan Galletto of Island Real Estate to get it SOLD 941-232-2216
LOOKING FOR A highly motivated real estate broker to buy or sell your next home? Darcie Duncan, Broker Duncan Real Estate a lifelong island resident bringing success to her customers for 30 years. Proven track record brings you results! 941-725-1589
WATERVIEW VILLA in the peaceful community of PERICO ISLAND! Beautifully renovated 2/2, attached 2 car garage. No damage from hurricanes. $567,500 Karen Parsons, Good Life Realty 407-2337059
HOLMES BEACH
2BR/2BA CONDO #64 West Bay Point. Best bay views 6400 Flotilla Dr. Soon “white box” ready for interior design. New roof, AC, windows. An opportunity to create new 1300sf up to code condo. Call Ralph Sandberg 847-530-8833 a twenty year owner offering for bid starting at $660,000.
FLORIDA PARK MODEL. $27,500 Turn-key ready! Located in Sarasota Bay RV park. 2 miles Anna Maria Island. Season paid. Call Dave, 715-554-0465
RENTALS: ANNUAL
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
HOLMES BEACH, 2100 sq f house , 3 min to the beach 3BR/3BA 2 car garage , $5950 monthly 514-7304825 kondiloveroutis@ gmail.com
FULLY FURNISHED
2BR/2BA Condo in Holmes Beach. Includes all utilities, cable, internet, and trash. 6-month lease available April 15, 2025. Call Jack at 312-835-2323
ANNUAL RENTAL minutes to beaches 2BR/2BA Condo. Water/cable included, pool, washer/ dryer. $1795/mo Call 941713-6743
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. Happy New Year
FROM PAGE 11
Whitmore said the planning commission’s role is to ensure compliance with the city’s comprehensive plan and allowing them to conduct public hearings to review site plan applications would subject the city to additional attorney fees.
“I respect the planning commission and I love what they do, but this is our job and I don’t feel like giving my job up to another board,” Whitmore said.
Augello noted the planning commission is an advisory board, not a decision-making body. When conducting a quasi-judicial public hearing, the city commission could not use any evidence or testimony given at a planning commission hearing.
Augello agreed that a planning commission hearing would provide another layer of public input but it could also create additional legal complications if the city commission denies a site plan application and the applicant appeals the decision. Augello said the applicant could allege the city commission made its decision
SITE PLANS: Planning commission will not review site plans
This is one of the biggest jobs of the commission and we should be taking the responsibility for it.”
Carol Whitmore, Holmes Beach commissioner
based on the planning commission review rather than the evidence and testimony presented directly to the city commission.
Augello said planning commission review of a site plan application could also create a “conflict in record evidence.” If something was presented at the planning commission hearing and not at the city commission hearing, that could create a potential deviation of information. Augello advised avoiding a “dual review” process for site plan applications and she suggested a similar approach for rezoning requests.
Commissioner Carol Soustek serves as the city commission’s planning commission liaison. She expressed her respect for the planning commis-
sion and their desire to review site plans but she agrees with Whitmore regarding the avoidance of additional attorney fees.
Commissioner Terry Schaefer noted subjecting site plan applications to a single public hearing provides the public with only one opportunity to provide their input.
The commission unanimously agreed to remove the planning commission’s recommended language and move forward toward final adoption of the ordinance as amended that day.
In a related action meant to solicit greater input from the city’s advisory boards, the commission agreed to place monthly advisory board reports on future commission meeting agendas.
PLANNING COMMISSION RESPONSE
On Jan. 15, when reviewing the ordinance as amended the previous day, the planning commissioners expressed disappointment with the city commission’s decision, but they acknowledged the city attorney’s legal concerns. After much discussion, the planning commissioners unanimously agreed to reinsert the deleted language as a symbolic reiteration of their desire for greater transparency in the site plan review process – knowing the city commission will delete that language again before the ordinance is adopted on second reading.
Minor said he would never present a site plan application to the city commission that doesn’t comply with the city’s comprehensive plan and land development code. At the request of the planning commission, Minor agreed to post a notice at the city website when a major site plan application is received so the public has as much advance notice as possible.
