AMI Christmas Bird Count reveals some surprises
BY LESLIE LAKE SUN CORRESPONDENT | llake@amisun.com
ANNA MARIA ISLAND – The 125th Annual Audubon Christmas Bird Count on Anna Maria Island was completed on Dec. 29 and counters found a few surprises.
“We were interested in what impact the hurricanes would have on this year’s numbers, but we actually logged more species than last year,” counter Bill Pelletier wrote in an email to The Sun.
Counters viewed 54 species of birds on the north end of the Island, including a new addition - a wild turkey.
“We had an unexpected addition of a wild turkey on the island,” Pelletier wrote. “Kitty (counter Kitty O’Neil) found it back in April and it is still around. This is the only one ever reported out here, in the wild.”
Pelletier wrote that one of a pair of nesting bald eagles didn’t make it through the storms.
Owner closes Pines Trailer Park
The park owner blames, in part, residents still recovering from two hurricanes for being delinquent in their lot rental payments.
BY LESLIE LAKE SUN CORRESPONDENT | llake@amisun.com
BRADENTON BEACH - Pines
Trailer Park residents who recently received city approval to repair their hurricane-damaged mobile homes received a letter on Jan. 4 from Pines Park Investors LLC stating that the park will be closed.
The letter from Pines Park Investors, whose manager is Shawn Kaleta, was received by Pines homeowners on Jan. 4 and reads in part:
“Over the past months, we have conducted extensive financial modeling and assessments to determine
the viability of maintaining the park,” according to the letter. “Unfortunately, we have come to the difficult conclusion that Pines Park is no longer sustainable as a trailer park and must be closed.”
The letter does not make it clear what the plans are for the park but states that one option being considered, pending city of Bradenton Beach approval, is allowing continued month-to-month tenancy for some residents, possibly extending up to a couple of years, depending on the overall timeline for vacating the property.
Several Pines residents contacted by The Sun on Jan. 4 chose to reserve comment on the letter.
The letter goes on to state that formal notices will be distributed in
SEE PINES, PAGE 19
Commissioners to hear update on Seafood Shack purchase
Two hurricanes delayed the sale of the property on the Intracoastal Waterway.
BY LESLIE LAKE SUN CORRESPONDENT | llake@amisun.com
CORTEZ – The Manatee County Board of Commissioners is scheduled to hear an update at its Wednesday, Jan. 8 meeting on the county’s stalled acquisition of the Seafood Shack and Marina.
On Sept. 5, 2024, commissioners executed a contract for the Seafood Shack for $13 million with seller Vandyk 1st Gulf Coast-Marina LLC. The anticipated use of the property was a public boating access facility with a boat ramp, dry storage and marina.
The property, which consists of seven upland parcels of approximate-
ly 5.9 acres and two submerged land leases of 2.9 acres, was appraised at $12.55 million, assuming the two expired submerged land leases will be renewed.
According to the sales contract, the closing of the transaction was to occur on or before Oct. 7, 2024.
“Property Acquisition and American Government Services, the county’s closing agent, worked on closing this transaction per terms and conditions of the contract,” according to the meeting agenda.
“Property Acquisition completed a site visit on Sept. 10, 2024 to walk the property and talk with seller’s representatives in charge of all operations as part of the due diligence of the contract.”
SEAFOOD SHACK, PAGE 23
BILL PELLETIER | SUBMITTED
A bald eagle that lost its mate during Hurricanes Helene and Milton was identified during the Christmas Bird Count in Anna Maria.
City issues substantial damage assessment letters
The city will rely on permitting information to make its substantial damage determinations.
BY JOE HENDRICKS SUN CORRESPONDENT | jhendricks@amisun.com
ANNA MARIA – The city recently sent substantial damage assessment letters to Anna Maria property owners whose structures appear to have sustained hurricane damage.
City Planner Ashley Austin signed the recently delivered standardized letter that says, “The city of Anna Maria is a participant in the National Flood Insurance Program (NFIP). The NFIP ensures flood insurance and additional forms of disaster assistance are available within participating communities in exchange for the community's adoption and administration of floodplain management regulations within Special Flood Hazard Areas (SFHAs). It’s important to know that the entirety of the city of Anna Maria is located in a SFHA.
“Your home may have suffered damage as a result of damage from Hurricane Helene on September 26th and/or Hurricane Milton on October 9th. As an NFIP participant, city of Anna Maria officials are
tasked with assessing whether the work necessary to restore a damaged building to its pre-damage condition constitutes the NFIP’s definition of ‘substantial damage.’ If the estimated cost to repair your damaged building to its pre-damage condition equals or exceeds 50% of its estimated market value, it is determined to be ‘substantially damaged’ and must be brought into compliance with current
floodplain management regulations of the Florida Building Code and the city of Anna Maria code of ordinances. The city’s local floodplain management regulations can be found in Chapter 82 of the city of Anna Maria code of ordinances,” the letter says.
“As you may be aware, the city deployed teams contracted by the State Department of Emergency Management to help aid in the substantial damage assessments.
Teams were either granted access into your home or performed an assessment from the road. Based on a field assessment, it appears that your property may have been damaged. A permit is required for any repair and/or restoration work. Upon review of a permit application package, a substantial damage determination will be made. In order to make a substantial damage determination, applications must include descriptions of proposed work, a detailed breakdown of the cost of work and the pre-damage market value of your home, excluding the value of the land. Substantial damage determinations will then be mailed to the property owner according to the information on file with the Manatee County Property Appraiser’s Office.
“We regret your loss and the damage you have experienced. We will try to make the permitting process as easy and as seamless as possible. Thank you in advance for your cooperation and assistance at this difficult time,” the letter says.
Property owners with questions or in need of assistance or consultation are advised to call the building department at 941-778-6130, ext. 127.
JOE HENDRICKS | SUN
The waterfront home near the Rod & Reel Pier was damaged during the recent hurricanes.
ISLAND NEWS
IN BRIEF
November 2024 tourist tax collections compared to November 2023 Anna Maria
*(Anna Maria Island, Bradenton, Longboat Key, unincorporated Manatee County, Palmetto)
Manatee County’s 5% resort tax, or 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% of the tax proceeds are allocated to Bradenton Area Convention and Visitors Bureau tourism marketing efforts, with 20% allocated to beach renourishment. The tax also partially funds tourism-related attractions such as the Bradenton Beach and Anna Maria piers. Amounts shown were collected in November and paid to the Manatee County Tax Collector’s Office in December. Manatee County totals include Anna Maria Island cities, Bradenton, the portion of Longboat Key within Manatee County, unincorporated Manatee County and Palmetto. 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
Increased tourist development tax takes effect
The increased 6% Manatee County Tourist Development Tax rate took effect on Jan. 1. In November, Manatee County voters approved a 1% increase in the tourist development tax, raising the rate from 5% to 6%. The tourist development tax is applied to motel, hotel, resort and short-term vacation rental accommodations in Manatee County of six months or less. The tourist development tax revenues are controlled by the Manatee County Commission. Proposed tourist tax expenditures are typically reviewed by the Tourist Development Council before being presented for county commission approval. In recent years, tourist development tax revenues have been used to help fund the construction of Anna Maria City Pier that was completed in 2020, the replacement and modification of the floating day dock in Bradenton Beach and the operation of the county’s Gulf Islands Ferry service. During the 2023-24 fiscal year that ended on Sept. 30, the 5% tourist development tax generated $31 million in tax revenues.
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Seymour withdraws city commission application
Remaining
applicant John Lynch will still participate in the previously scheduled candidate forum.
BY JOE HENDRICKS SUN CORRESPONDENT | jhendricks@amisun.com
ANNA MARIA – Former city commissioner and mayoral candidate Brian Seymour has withdrawn his application seeking appointment to the Anna Maria City Commission.
Seymour’s withdrawal leaves John Lynch as the lone remaining commission applicant seeking appointment to the city commission on Jan. 9.
Dated Jan. 4 and addressed to Mayor Mark Short, Seymour’s withdrawal letter says, “I am writing to inform you that I would like to remove myself from consideration for the open city commission seat. After much thought over the last few weeks, I have concluded that I can better serve the community as I have been for the past several years, as a regular attendee of city commission meetings and participating when public comment warrants.”
Seymour and Lynch submitted applications seeking appointment to serve the remaining year of former Commissioner Jon Crane’s two-year term. Citing hurricane damage to his Anna Maria home and a desire to live off-Island, Crane resigned in November, creating the commission vacancy.
As a precursor to the commission appointment expected to be made on Thursday, Jan. 9, Lynch and Seymour were slated to participate in a candidate forum at city hall on Tuesday, Jan. 7 at 6 p.m.
After receiving Seymour’s withdrawal letter, Short said Tuesday’s forum would still take place, with Lynch still being given the opportunity to answer written questions previously submitted by the public.
According to his commission application, Lynch is a retired consultant and supply chain executive who also served for 10 years as a high school football coach.
His application states he resides in Anna Maria 10 months a year and is a registered Anna Maria voter. He’s involved with the Habitat for Humanity organization and serves as president and secretary of the Michael Lynch Memorial Foundation.
During Thursday’s meeting, the four sitting commissioners – Chris Arendt, Kathleen Morgan-Johnson, Gary McMullen and Charlie Salem – could either appoint Lynch to fill the vacant commission seat or delay the appointment and seek additional applicants.
WITHDRAWAL LETTER
In his withdrawal letter, Seymour stated his decision to withdraw was prompted primarily by his desire to avoid situations where he would have to recuse himself from discussing and voting on matters pertaining to the city’s top two project priorities: rebuilding the hurricane-damaged City Pier and completing the Reimagining Pine Avenue sidewalk installation and safety improvement project.
Seymour owns and operates two businesses along Pine Avenue: the Anna Maria General Store and Pine Avenue Bait and Tackle. He and his business partners also operate the City Pier Grill in pier space leased from the city. The City Pier Grill remains closed until the portion of the walkway obliterated by Hurricane Milton is replaced and any
additional hurricane-related pier repairs are complete.
Salem owns commercial property along Pine Avenue and Seymour’s letter notes Salem, the new commission chair, recuses himself from Reimagining Pine Avenue discussions and votes.
“The city already has one commissioner who recuses him on Pine Avenue votes and I fear having two commissioners recusing themselves will not serve in the city’s best interests,” Seymour wrote.
“In addition, as one of two tenants on the City Pier, I would probably have to recuse myself from any votes on that project as well. I think all five commissioners should have a vote on the various stages of the pier rebuild. I believe my input and help from a citizen/ tenant standpoint would be more valuable to the city than being on the dais and not being able to vote. I appreciate your understanding and hope that the other candidate is successful in their bid to join the city commission,” Seymour wrote.
Seymour’s letter concludes with well wishes for Short in his new role as Anna Maria mayor: “I look forward to seeing your growth and future achievements as mayor and the growth of our wonderful city I know we both love so much. I stand by and am available any time you may need assistance.”
JOE HENDRICKS | SUN
Brian Seymour often provides public comment during Anna Maria City Commission meetings.
BlueWave Restorations mourns loss of Jason Edwards
Jason Edwards was loved, respected and appreciated by many on Anna Maria Island.
BY JOE HENDRICKS SUN CORRESPONDENT | jhendricks@amisun.com
HOLMES BEACH – On New Year’s Eve, BlueWave Restorations co-owner
Jason Edwards, 51, was fatally electrocuted in Anna Maria while assisting a friend.
After Edward’s passing, the Holmes Beach-based company formed in early September issued a press release that states, “On New Year’s Eve, Jason tragically passed away at a private residence on Los Cedros Drive in Anna Maria while helping a friend connect electric to an RV. It was ruled an accidental incident and that Jason died instantly.”
The press release notes the property where the accident occurred was owned by a former BlueWave Restorations client but was no longer an active company job site.
“Jason had connected his friend with the property owner as a personal favor – a testament to his selfless and giving nature,” the press release says.
“Jason Edwards was more than a
leader at BlueWave Restorations; he was the heart of the company. Known for his joyful spirit, unwavering kindness and ability to lift everyone around him, Jason embodied the company’s commitment to serving the community with compassion and care. Jason’s light touched not only his co-workers and clients but also the
broader Anna Maria Island community,” the press release says.
In the press release, BlueWave Restorations co-owner Pete Dospel said, “We are heartbroken by the loss of Jason. He wasn’t just my business partner; he had become one of my closest friends. Jason’s dedication to his work, his community and the
people in his life was unmatched. His generosity, integrity and infectious positivity will be deeply missed but never forgotten.”
The press release states that Edwards “built a life defined by generosity, warmth and service to others” and “Jason’s legacy will live on through the company’s dedication to the values he so deeply embodied – kindness, generosity and excellence.”
Edwards was born in Newport News, Va. on Feb. 20, 1973. He moved to Winter Springs as a young child, attended Oviedo High School in the greater Orlando area and moved to Bradenton with his family in 1991.
He is survived by his mother, Diane Edwards; father, David Edwards; brothers, Aaron and Andrew Edwards; sister, Megan Edwards; nieces, Alexis, Freya and Audrianna; and nephews, Tyler, Andrew Marley and Braelyn.
Funeral services will be held on Saturday, Jan. 11 from 2-4 p.m. at Roland Toale and Sons Funeral Home at Manasota Memorial Park, 1212 53rd Ave. E. in Bradenton.
Jason’s mom, Diane, has organized the “Honoring Jason Edwards: Memorial Fund” GoFundMe fundraising page.
EDWARDS FAMILY | SUBMITTED
Jason Edwards was beloved by his family, friends and clients.
OPINION
The Anna Maria Island Sun Staff
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Editor
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General Manager
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Phone: 941-778-3986
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Got an opinion, a complaint or a compliment? Is there something you need to get off your chest? Send us a letter to the editor and have your say. There are a couple of ways to do it. The easiest and most direct is to email The Sun at news@amisun.com. Remember to put Letter to the Editor in the subject field. Or you can snail-mail
a letter to us at The Anna Maria Island Sun, P.O. Box 1189, Anna Maria, FL 34216. Letters should be kept to 300 words or less and must contain your name and the city in which you reside. Personal attacks and obscene language will not be printed. The Sun reserves the right to edit letters for length or content.
ANNA MARIA
10005 GULF DRIVE
FOR INFORMATION, CALL 941-708-6130
Please visit www.cityofannamaria.com or contact city hall for more information.
Jan. 7, 6 p.m. – City Commission workshop and candidate presentation
Jan. 9, 2 p.m. – City Commission meeting
Jan. 20, all day – City offices closed, Martin Luther King Jr. Day
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. 15, 1 p.m. – Scenic WAVES meeting
Jan. 16, 9:30 a.m. – Community Redevelopment Agency meeting
Jan. 16, noon – City Commission meeting
Jan. 20, all day – City offices closed, Martin Luther King Jr. Day
Jan. 22, 10 a.m. – Pier Team meeting
HOLMES BEACH
5801 MARINA DRIVE FOR INFORMATION, CALL 941-708-5800
Please visit www.holmesbeachfl.org or contact city hall for more information.
Jan. 8, 9 a.m. – Clean Water AdHoc Committee meeting
Jan. 14, 2 p.m. – City Commission meeting with work session to follow
Jan. 15, 3:30 p.m. – Planning Commission meeting
Jan. 20, all day – City offices closed, Martin Luther King Jr. Day
Jan. 23, 11:30 a.m. – Police officer’s pension board meeting
Jan. 28, 10 a.m. – Code Compliance special magistrate hearing
Jan. 28, 2 p.m. – City Commission meeting with work session to follow
ISLAND-WIDE
Jan. 21, 6 p.m. – West Manatee Fire Rescue board meeting, administration building, 701 63rd St. W., Bradenton
WEDNESDAY, JAN. 8
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.
One-on-One Tech Help, Island Branch Library, 5701 Marina Drive, Holmes Beach, 2-4 p.m.
Island Time Book Club, Island Branch Library, 5701 Marina Drive, Holmes Beach, 6:30 p.m.
THURSDAY, JAN. 9
Toddler Play-Doh fun, Island Branch Library, 5701 Marina Drive, Holmes Beach, 10 a.m.
TreeTots: Touching Texture, Robinson Preserve Mosaic NEST, 840 99th St. N.W., Bradenton, 10 a.m.
Creative writing workshop, Island Branch Library, 5701 Marina Drive, Holmes Beach, noon
Friends of the Island Library 2025 Lecture and Travel Series: Our Marine Ecosystem, Island Branch Library, 5701 Marina Drive, Holmes Beach, 2 p.m.
FRIDAY, JAN. 10
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.
Zen calligraphy, Island Branch Library, 5701 Marina Drive, Holmes Beach, 2 p.m.
Chigiri-e Tom paper collage, Island Branch Library, 5701 Marina Drive, Holmes Beach, 4:30 p.m.
SATURDAY, JAN. 11
Saturday Mornings at the NEST, Robinson Preserve Mosaic NEST, 840 99th St. N.W., Bradenton, 9 a.m. to noon
LEGO Challenge, Island Branch Library, 5701 Marina Drive, Holmes Beach, 10 a.m.
Hike with a Librarian, Neal Preserve, 12301 Manatee Ave. W., Bradenton, 10 a.m. and 1 p.m.
SUNDAY, JAN. 12
Coquina Beach Market, 2650 Gulf Drive S., Bradenton Beach, 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.
MONDAY, JAN. 13
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. 14
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.
WEDNESDAY, JAN. 15
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.
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. 16
Seashell shore walk, Coquina Beach South at the Longboat Key Bridge, 2650 Gulf Drive S., Bradenton Beach, 9 a.m.
City Field debris removal wrapping up
The vegetative yard debris stockpiled at City Field is being transported off the Island.
BY JOE HENDRICKS SUN CORRESPONDENT | jhendricks@amisun.com
HOLMES BEACH – The remaining hurricane-related vegetative yard debris stored at City Field is expected to be fully removed by Saturday, Jan. 11.
On Dec. 27, City Commissioner Carol Whitmore emailed Mayor Judy Titsworth and Public Works Superintendent Sage Kamiya inquiring when the accumulated vegetative yard debris would be removed from the city-owned City Field area. In her email, Whitmore noted several people asked her about the remaining debris.
In the email response she sent to Whitmore that day, Titsworth wrote, “The debris field is being chipped and moved. They have been working on it for over a week now.”
Titsworth’s email noted that Holmes Beach is not the only city with debris removal efforts still taking place.
On Dec. 30, Kamiya sent Titsworth and Whitmore an email that said,
CITY OF HOLMES BEACH | SUBMITTED
The stockpile pile of vegetative debris shown in this recent photo has since been chipped and ground into mulch-like pieces.
“We are estimating that grinding will be fully complete this week. Haul out starts on January 2nd and the contractor is expecting this be done by 1/11.”
On Jan. 2, Kamiya provided The Sun with some additional information about the vegetative yard debris collected from Holmes Beach residences
and stockpiled at City Field to be ground down to a more manageable and transportable size.
“This step has now been completed. The next step is to haul it off the field to an approved location for final disposition. The city’s portion is complete once it is hauled off-Island.
This is expected to start soon with an expected completion of 1/11,” Kamiya stated in his email.
On Jan. 3, Kamiya provided photos of the City Field debris area, taken that day by Digital and Media Strategist Matt McDonough.
Beach Market open
The Coquina Beach Market reopened for the season on Jan. 3. The Manatee County-run market is located at the south end of Coquina Beach. It will be open from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. on Wednesdays, Fridays and Sundays until June 29. Vendors vary by day, but opening day had 90 vendors in attendance selling clothing, beachwear, jewelry and food and decorative items made by local artisans. Visit coquinabeachmarket.org for information about becoming a vendor. For the most up-to-date information, visit the Coquina Beach Market Facebook page @CoquinaBeachMarket. Dottie Deerwester from Ready Set Go is the market manager and can be reached at info@coquinabeachmarket.org.
Cortez fire destroys business
BY LESLIE LAKE SUN CORRESPONDENT | llake@amisun.com
CORTEZ – Multiple fire crews quickly knocked down an early morning fire on Dec. 29 at a boat repair business at 4412 123rd St. W., preventing damage to adjacent homes. The fire, however, destroyed a Cortez workshop on the property owned by Matthew Min nis and Jenny Krohn.
The two have been living in an RV in their driveway following flooding and damage from Hurricanes Helene and Milton to their home next to the workshop.
but this fire is just too much.”
Krohn set up a GoFundMe page, “Rebuild our home and businesses in historic Cortez Village,” and wrote that they had been trying to get their home and businesses back to livable and workable conditions when the fire broke out in the workshop.
“Helene and Milton flooded our home and both businesses with 4 feet of water. We were able to get our businesses back to being somewhat workable, but the house requires more work,” she wrote. “This morning, a fire erupted on the boat
repair side and destroyed the building as well as the contents.”
She stated their insurance company canceled their homeowners insurance two years ago due to the location and they’ve been unable to acquire insurance, adding, “FEMA has been of no help.”
“We are asking for donations to help demo the building and rebuild the shop, and replace the thousands of dollars of tools,” she wrote. “We still have the house to re-sheetrock and replace the electrical. We were trying to rebuild after the hurricanes on our own,
According to West Manatee Fire Rescue incident reports, multiple units responded to the fire call and found a fully involved open warehousetype building used for boat maintenance and repairs.
The owner was trying to pull equipment and trailers away from the fire. All of the contents inside the building were on fire, including a pick-up truck that began leaking gasoline. Some of the fire crews focused on protecting adjacent residences. No injuries were reported.
CENTER NOTES
YOUTH BASKETBALL TRAINING WITH AMI HOOPS
Start 2025 at The Center of Anna Maria Island, 407 Magnolia Ave., with youth basketball training. Kids kindergarten through ninth grade can improve their basketball skills with sessions focusing on fundamentals, competitive games and advanced concepts. The cost is $100 for members and $125 for non-members for four training sessions. Private training is also available. Email youthprograms@ centerami.org for dates and times.
TEENIE YOGINI – YOGA FOR GIRLS
A fun yoga class for ages 4-7 using animated poses, games and music to build strength, confidence and relaxation. The nine-week class starts Wednesday, Jan. 15 at 4 p.m. The cost is $200 for members and $215 for non-members.
YOUTH HIP-HOP DANCE
Learn hip-hop fundamentals, including warm-ups, stretching and choreography, with a recital to cap each session. The Thursday class starts on Jan. 16 for children kindergarten and up. The cost is $135 for members and $160 for non-members or $25 for single class drop-ins. Email youthprograms@centerami.org for times.
YOUTH BEGINNER JAZZ AND BALLET
Discover ballet basics with Star Academy of Dance & Aerial Arts, designed for ages 5-11. Wednesday classes start on Jan. 15 for children kindergarten and up. The cost is $135 for members and $160 for non-members or $25 for single class drop-ins. Email youthprograms@centerami.org for times.
YOUTH TUMBLING
Star Academy of Dance & Aerial Arts offers tumbling classes for all levels for ages 2½ through fifth grade. Wednesday classes start on Jan. 15 for children kindergarten and up. The cost is $135 for members and $160 for non-members. Email youthprograms@centerami.org for times.
SENIOR OUTINGS
Join The Center for a fun-filled day trip to the St. Pete Pier on Thursday, Jan. 16 from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. The cost is $5 van ride. Additional fees may apply.
BOOK CLUB
The Center welcomes adults to a free book club on Monday, Jan. 20 at 1 p.m. The book discussed will be Darling Girls. Feel free to bring a book to swap.
VAN WEZEL DANCE
Experience the thrill of Broadway dance with Justin Gomlak Greer, a seasoned Broadway veteran. Each class includes a warm-up, movement techniques and choreography inspired by upcoming Van Wezel performances. Open to all levels on Tuesday, Jan. 21 with an Addams Family theme from 11 a.m. to 12:15 p.m. The cost is $20 for members and $25 for non-members.
OSHER LIFELONG LEARNING INSTITUTE (OLLI)
Enjoy an engaging lecture, The Story of Frank Lloyd Wright, with OLLI On Thursday, Jan. 23 from 11 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. The cost is $20 for members and $25 for non-members.
To register for Center programs or for more information, email The Center at hello@centerami.org or call 941-778-1908.
941-778-0414 • 512 Pine Ave, Anna Maria
Center proposes weekly farmers market
City Pier Park cannot currently accommodate the seasonal city-hosted farmers market.
BY JOE HENDRICKS SUN CORRESPONDENT | jhendricks@amisun.com
ANNA MARIA – Pending city commission approval, the hurricane-displaced, city-hosted farmers market at City Pier Park will be temporarily replaced by an expanded farmers market at The Center of Anna Maria Island.
A promotional flyer provided last week by The Center’s volunteer market coordinator, Devinne “Dev” Whittaker, lists a Tuesday, Jan. 14 start date for the Anna Maria Community Farmers Market scheduled on The Center soccer fields from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m.
The proposed weekly market requires a city commission-approved special event permit and The Center’s permit application is included on the agenda for the commission’s Thursday, Jan. 9 meeting. If approved by city commissioners, The Center will host the Anna Maria Community Farmers Market every Tuesday through May 27.
Located at 407 Magnolia Ave., The Center operates on city-owned property. When contacted by The Sun, Mayor Mark Short said the city is not involved with The Center-hosted market other than considering The Center’s special event permit application.
MARKET
DISPLACED
After debuting with four vendors on a stormy day in March 2018, the city-hosted farmers market at City Pier Park became an annual seasonal tradition that began in October every Tuesday, weather permitting, until
early to mid-May; and the vendor roster grew to a dozen or more vendors, most of whom returned each year.
Hurricanes Helene and Milton prevented the city-hosted farmers market from resuming in October. After Hurricane Helene struck in late September, City Pier Park was used as a staging area for utility crews and other recovery personnel.
In late October, the U.S. Post Office established a temporary post office under the City Pier Park shade sail structure, where postal workers provided basic mail services out of parked mail trucks. In late November, the temporary post office moved into a large, mobile home-like trailer that remains parked next to the shade sail structure, where it will remain until the hurricane-damaged post office building across the street is repaired
and reopened, preventing the market from staging in its former space.
MARKET REIMAGINED
Whittaker and former Chiles Group head baker Ted Louloudes co-own the DBTB Juice Bar & Bakery they operate inside The Center. Whittaker recently proposed relocating the city-hosted farmers market to The Center rather than cancel it for the season. She also offered to help organize and coordinate The Center-hosted farmers market.
Whittaker sold protein shakes and other natural and nutritional beverages at her Dev’s Bevs vending tent during the city market’s 2023-24 season; and Louloudes and his co-workers sold freshly baked bread and other baked goods at Chiles Hospitality group’s Anna Maria Bake House city market vending tent.
In recent years, Deputy City Clerk Fran Berrios coordinated the city-hosted farmers market originally coordinated and managed by previous Deputy City Clerk Debbie Haynes. With some initial assistance from Berrios, Whittaker reached out to the vendors who participated in last year’s city-hosted market. She also reached out to other vendors she knows from other markets she’s participated in. Whittaker said the city is limiting The Center’s market to 30 vendors and all 30 vendor slots have already been filled.
Featuring a dozen or more vendors, the city-hosted market focused primarily on fresh produce, other natural and organic food and beverage items, flowers, plants, herbs and things of that ilk. In an effort to not compete with the local restaurants and retail businesses along Pine Avenue, the city-hosted markets have not featured prepared meals and have not been open to arts and craft vendors or retail vendors whose offerings more resemble those sold at a flea market. If approved, the Center-hosted Anna Maria Community Farmers Market will offer a wider array of vendors and vendor offerings. According to the promotional flyer, the market offerings will include art, produce, coffee, juice, baked goods, meat, poultry, massages, clothing, pickles, microgreens, beverages and more.
“We have opened this market up to all vendors, not just food and beverage,” Whittaker said.
According to Whittaker, The Center vendors are not being asked to pay a weekly or annual participation fee, but they are required to have liability insurance that protects The Center and the city-owned property.
JOE HENDRICKS | SUN
Devinne “Dev” Whittaker was an Anna Maria Farmers Market vendor during the 2023-24 season.
Shamrock Shiver moves from beach to bar
BY LESLIE LAKE SUN CORRESPONDENT | llake@amisun.com
CORTEZ - The annual Clancy’s New Year’s Day Shamrock Shiver charity event looked a little different from prior years, but the goal was still the same - to raise money for local charities.
In previous years, members of the community have plunged into the chilly Gulf waters to raise donations for charitable organizations.
Following the hurricanes, Clancy’s decided to replace the Shamrock Shiver plunge with an ice bucket challenge. Community members raised donation pledges for local charities Healthy Teens, Take Stock in Children and Mothers Helping Mothers.
After getting doused with a bucket of ice water, Tom Overmier said he has participated in the event for the past 16 years.
“This is for helping kids,” Overmier said. “That’s why I do it.”
Healthy Teens is dedicated to empowering youth to make positive, healthy decisions for their success and wellbeing.
“We provide them with the knowledge and skills needed to make informed choices about their physical, mental and emotional health,” according to the organization’s mission statement.
Take Stock in Children Inc. is a nonprofit
mentoring, college success and college scholarship organization dedicated to transforming Florida one student at a time, according to its mission statement.
Mothers Helping Mothers provides basic necessities for families and children, including baby items, free to families in Manatee and Sarasota counties.
The ice bucket challenge was followed by music by the Dr. Dave Band, along with door prizes, raffles and a silent auction.
More than $438,000 has been raised for local charities since the annual fundraiser began in 2009. The target goal for 2025 was $40,000.
LESLIE LAKE | SUN
The ice bucket challenge at Clancy’s on New Year’s Day raised funds for local charities.
'Birthday Suite' opens Thursday evening
The Island Players’ theatrical performance of Robin Hawdon’s “Birthday Suite” opens Thursday, Jan. 9, and closes Sunday, Jan. 26. Tickets are $18-$28 and on sale now at www.theislandplayers.org. Tickets can also be purchased at the box office beginning one hour before showtime. The box office is also currently open Monday-
“Birthday
Saturday, 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. Directed by Heiko Knipfelberg, “Birthday Suite” tells the tale of “Four hotel guests, who for very different
reasons, check into adjoining hotel suites, where an unlocked door and an enthusiastic waiter leads to hilarious mistaken identities and misdirected infatuations.”
The Island Players theater is located at 10009 Gulf Drive in Anna Maria.
most trusted for HVAC & Electrical
JOE HENDRICKS | SUN
Suite” is a hilarious tale of romantic interactions.
BIRD COUNT: Reveals some surprises
FROM PAGE 1
“The other eagle is still around and advertising for a mate,” he wrote. Counters recorded sighting 655 individual birds. The highest count of any species was 71 brown pelicans. Fourteen osprey were counted at the north end of the Island.
The count occurred in the Ft. DeSoto circle, a 15-mile diameter circle encompassing the north end of Anna Maria Island and Passage Key. In 1905, President Theodore Roosevelt established Passage
Key National Wildlife Refuge to preserve nesting colonies of native seabirds and wading birds.
While the final numbers haven’t been tallied for the region, William Kaempfer said about half of the count's total was found on Anna Maria Island.
“That included three species not seen across the channel in the Ft. DeSoto peninsula - brown-headed cowbird, gray catbird and tufted titmouse,” Kaempfer wrote.
OUTDOORS
Winter sight fishing
ight fishing is my favorite way to target fish since I like to see the whites of their eyes. Last week I was reminded of how rewarding this method can be. While fishing Sarasota Bay with my friend, Capt. Rick Grassett, we landed three flounder, sheepshead, a redfish and had numerous shots at trout in very shallow water. All of these except the flounder were sight fished.
Most anglers spend a large portion of their time on the water throwing live bait, flies and artificial lures at likely-looking spots. That might be a grass edge, a pothole, a disturbance on the surface or bird activity. Sight fishing, as the name implies, involves visually locating fish, a shadow, a shape or a push (a fish moving just under the surface) before making a cast. Being able to actually see the fish requires sun, clear water or visual cues. Winter is a time of the year when we have low tides, clear water and often all of these cues.
Three methods of sight fishing are generally employed locally - wading, standing on the bow of a boat while someone poles
you along or using a trolling motor to work across a flat. Of the three, wading allows you to get closest to fish, but the downside is that the low angle makes them harder to spot. Fishing from a boat either on the bow or a raised platform improves the visibility but requires staying further away and making a longer cast to avoid spooking the target. When using trolling motors, the same applies, because fish are much warier in shallow water and the sound of the motor can alert fish to your presence. Use the trolling motor to position yourself for a drift when fish are spooky. Whatever method is employed, a pair of polarized glasses, a hat with a dark underbill and an accurate cast are key. Sight fishing is effective and rewarding when using fly tackle, artificial lures or live bait.
Fish are normally located by moving slowly across a flat. If they’re particularly spooky, it can be effective to station yourself within range of a pothole or other visible edge and wait for them to cross the sand where they can easily be spotted. This requires patience but can pay
dividends. To increase your chances, station the boat or stand off to the side in the grass so that you don’t cast a shadow. When you see signs of a fish, make as long a cast as possible. When fly fishing, make sure that the fly lands lightly and never too close. Anglers using artificial lures and live bait can cast well past the target, bringing it back to a position the fish can see. In both cases make sure your presentation never moves towards your target, tripletail excepted.
If you’re wading, make sure you have proper footwear and shuffle your feet as you move across the bottom. Many anglers abandon wading in the winter, but this can be one of the best times of the year. The chances of the water being clear are greater and you’re likely
to have less competition. Fish can be extremely wary when the sun is high and the water clear. Wading helps lower your profile, allowing a stealthier approach. Note: Never wet wade if you have an open wound. Whatever your fishing
style, give sight fishing a try. Not only is it effective, but it’s exciting when you enter the fish’s domain. Remember, always release any fish you won’t be eating fresh and handle them with care, keeping them in the water if possible.
RUSTY CHINNIS | SUN
Capt. Rick Grassett with a red he caught while sight fishing a shallow Sarasota Bay flat.
RUSTY CHINNIS
Capt. Scott Moore to speak at library
Holmes Beach resident and charter fishing captain Scott Moore will be the featured speaker at the “Friends 2025 Lecture & Travel Series: Our Marine Eco-System” event on Thursday, Jan. 9 from 2-3 p.m. at the Island Branch Library in Holmes Beach. Sponsored by Friends of the Island Library, Moore’s speaking engagement is free and open to the public. Doors will open at 1:30 p.m. According to event preview posted at the Manatee Library website, “Capt. Scott Moore has been fishing and running the waters around Anna Maria Island for more than half a century. Moore has been honored for his lifetime of dedication and commitment as a skilled captain, an ocean steward, conservationist and educator. Moore serves on several fishery committees, both locally and nationally, and has demonstrated how partnerships between scientists and fishers can protect and restore marine life. His dedication to ocean stewardship and conservation is exemplary, earning him numerous honors and accolades for his tire-
SCOTT MOORE | SUBMITTED Capt. Scott Moore will discuss “Our Marine EcoSystem” on Jan. 9.
less efforts in preserving marine ecosystems. As an educator, Capt. Moore has enlightened countless individuals about the importance of sustainable fishing practices and the delicate balance of marine life.”
Boat ramps repaired, reopened
BY LESLIE LAKE SUN CORRESPONDENT | llake@amisun.com
BRADENTON BEACH – The Coquina South and Capt. Scott Moore boat ramps, which were affected by last year’s hurricanes, reopened on Dec. 31 to brisk boat launch activity.
Formerly known as Coquina North, the Capt. Scott Moore boat ramp, along with the Coquina South ramp, underwent extensive repairs and cleanup efforts following Hurricanes Helene and Milton.
The restoration process included the removal of derelict vessels from nearby waters and repairs to the docks themselves to ensure safe and accessible conditions for all users, according to a Manatee County press release.
The recovery efforts, spearheaded by Manatee County government, included repairs to ramp infrastructure to ensure safety and usability, clearing of debris and removal of storm-damaged vessels and sand-sifting operations to restore beaches and berms.
“We are thrilled to reopen these facilities,” Manatee County Director of Natural Resources Charlie Hunsicker
said. “These ramps are essential for our community’s recreational and commercial boating activities.”
Parking remains limited in some areas, and there are still portions of the public beach areas which remain closed. Beachgoers are urged to stay safe and observe all posted warnings.
The Kingfish Boat Ramp in Holmes Beach remains closed following the hurricanes. The Palma Sola Boat Ramp on Manatee Avenue is open.
LESLIE LAKE | SUN
The reopened Coquina South boat ramp had brisk activity on Jan. 1.
REAL ESTATE
Mortgage interest rate future ‘uncertain’
Happy New Year, although this year may not be so happy for homeowners and worse for potential homeowners. Both groups are getting hit with increasing costs they never assumed would come. More next week about the growing expense of owning a home.
On Dec. 18, the Federal Reserve enacted a quarter point reduction in interest rates. Sometimes financial markets and mortgage rates react favorably to rate reductions and sometimes they don’t. This time, both the stock market and the mortgage markets didn’t like it. The stock market took a dive, losing more than 1,100 points for the Dow and the mortgage rates for the following two weeks went up.
Castles in the Sand
says: “Forecasts are highly uncertain, forecasting is very difficult.” This is where my head started to explode.
Nevertheless, the big brains of finance who admit to the difficulty in forecasting are still forecasting for the new year. So, here’s what some of them are saying.
The reason for this is the Federal Reserve signaled earlier that inflation was under control and they anticipated further rate reductions going forward. Well, we all know that we probably won’t see 3% mortgage interest rates again, but buyers and investors were anticipating at least a
little relief on rates. The Federal Reserve backed off their “inflation is under control” narrative and didn’t leave much hope for future rate adjustments.
Mortgage rates for a 30-year fixed rate mortgage went up to about 6.7% from around 6.4% or 6.5%. It doesn’t seem like a lot, but every increase results in lowering the amount of home purchasers can afford.
The projection for 2025 isn’t much better, either, in spite of the fact that in January 2023 some analysts thought rates would be around 4.5% by the end of 2024, obviously a major overstatement. Federal Reserve Chair Jerome Powell
Fannie Mae’s chief economist says, “Long-run interest rates have moved upward over the past couple of months following a string of continued strong economic data and disappointing inflation readings.” They are putting the average 30-year fixed rate at 6.5% in the beginning of 2025, declining to 6.1% in 2026.
The Mortgage Bankers Association (MBA) in its 2025 finance forecast indicates that mortgage rates will gradually slide from 6.6% at the beginning of 2025 to 6.3% through 2026.
The National Association of Home Builders is forecasting 6.12% in 2025 and 5.71% in 2026. The National Association of Realtors (NAR) is predicting 5.9%
in 2025 and 6.1% in 2026. And, finally, realtor.com is saying only that in 2025 the range will be between 6.2% and 6.3%. It is interesting that the organizations involved in actually selling homes are more optimistic than the financial institutions.
Getting back to Fannie Mae, they are saying the 30-year fixed rate mortgage rate is now expected to stay elevated between 6% and 6.5% for the next two years. But since “forecasting is difficult,” who really knows?
My advice to potential homeowners who require a mortgage is act now, since you really won’t know what the rates will be going into 2025. If you find a home you like that you can afford, putting it off waiting for a better mortgage rate is a bad decision. You’ll never catch up with the market just waiting for a ½ point decline or even a full point decline. Live your life now, buy your home and get a crystal ball.
LOUISE BOLGER
PINES: Owner closes trailer park
PAGE 1
the coming weeks in accordance with state law.
“These notices will include all necessary legal information and details to guide you through this process,” the letter continues.
“Along with these notices, we will provide agreements designed to assist you in transitioning out of the park, as well as information about resources available to support you during this time.”
HOW IT HAPPENED
On Sept. 26, storm surge from Hurricane Helene caused water intrusion into the 86 Pines Trailer Park mobile homes, some of which are directly on the Intracoastal Waterway.
On Oct. 17, city building officials said that FEMA guidelines related to hurricane-related water intrusion classified the properties as having “major” damage. Pines residents were told that regulations state that if the cost to repair a mobile home to its prestorm state is 50% or more of the structure’s value, then the entire structure must be brought into current floodplain compliance. The city’s floodplain ordinance requires the mobile homes to be elevated to a height of 12 feet. Many residents objected that they were unable financially or practically to comply.
On Oct. 29, fire code and setback regulations were outlined by West Manatee Fire Rescue District Fire Marshal Rodney Kwiatkowski, who stated that all new mobile home installations must follow setback guidelines between structures.
At a Nov. 7 city commission meeting, Kaleta said, “The units obviously took on water. There are fire separation issues, there’s mold, there’s structural stability, there’s elevation of the buildings, there’s all these questions. I’ve made a commitment to the residents from our side to keep the park there whatever it can be inside the code. I think that’s a vital part of the community, having residents and having everybody in that community as it exists. I think it’s an important piece of the community to achieve that.”
On Dec. 9, Pines residents received good news from City Building Official Darin Cushing when he notified 83 of the 86 Pines Trailer Park owners that they could repair their hurricane-
damaged mobile homes with the proper permits without elevating them.
“We previously provided you with a notice that your property may have been affected by flooding due to hurricanes Helene and Milton, and that a second, more thorough inspection would be performed to gather data critical to making a formal determination as to whether the cost of repairs necessary to restore your building to its pre-damage condition might rise to an amount constituting ‘substantial damage’ as defined in the City’s Flood Damage Prevention Ordinance 21-538,” Cushing’s letter stated.
Following the second inspection, and with a review of the data and of the property values, the city notified residents that repairs could be made with the applicable permits.
“The data suggests that costs to perform repairs and restoration will not constitute a substantial damage repair,” Cushing’s letter stated.
However, some residents remained hesitant to move forward with repairs, saying that questions about the ownership’s intent for the park were still unanswered.
In early December, the parking lot for Pines Trailer Park residents at 201 First St. N. was converted into a public paid parking lot, with a pay-by-plate system in place. Pines residents who required parking had paid $750 per year to park in the lot. A representative for Pines Park Investors told The Sun that residents could continue to park in the lot until Dec. 31 and said a letter would be going out to the residents about its conversion.
WHY IT HAPPENED
The Pines Trailer Park property is currently zoned M-1 (mobile home park).
The Jan. 4 letter gives the following four reasons for the decision to close the park:
“Financial challenges: The park is operating at an unsustainable income level, with high delinquency rates (approximately 75%). While some residents have expressed concerns about amenities needing restoration, such projects - such as waterfront docks - would take years to complete and require significant investment. Combined with delinquency issues, it is not financially viable to operate under these conditions.
Restoration and Compliance: The required renovations for many units to meet the 50% rule for updates would involve considerable investment, which we are aware many residents are unwilling or unable to make, if permits were to even be issued.
Additionally, the park’s compliance with fire codes presents a complex and costly challenge, as addressing one unit’s compliance issues often triggers a chain reaction requiring others to come into compliance.
Resident Concerns and Safety: We have received numerous requests from residents wishing to relinquish their deeds, but as a property management team, we are not in the business of owning trailers. Furthermore, the park has faced yearly flooding and other storm-related damages that create unsafe conditions for residents and untenable liabilities for management. This, coupled with instances of harassment toward our team and city officials,
LESLIE LAKE | SUN
Pines Park Investors have notified residents of the Pines Trailer Park that it will be closed.
4
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SEAFOOD SHACK: Commissioners to hear update on purchase
FROM PAGE 1
At the time of the site visit, the Seafood Shack property was occupied with businesses and boat slip tenants. On behalf of the seller, a notice was sent to the tenants ordering the premises to be vacated by Sept. 30.
Hurricane Helene struck on Sept. 26.
On Sept. 30, representatives from the County Administration, Construction Services, Property Management, Property Acquisition and Sports and Leisure departments conducted a walk-through and confirmed the Seafood Shack had sustained major hurricane damage.
“Administration directed Property Acquisition to move forward and close this transaction on or before Oct. 7 per the contract,” according to the BOCC meeting agenda. “On Oct. 9, Hurricane Milton made landfall and caused more damage to the Seafood Shack property.”
A closing was scheduled for Dec. 23, but did not take place.
According to the BOCC agenda, the seller and lender are unable to close due to a financial/ internal dispute.
LESLIE LAKE | SUN
The Seafood Shack and marina property sustained damage from Hurricanes Helene and Milton. A scheduled purchase by Manatee County for $13 million has not yet closed.
“The seller and lender cannot mutually agree on a settlement statement amount owed to close this real estate transaction. As is, the county is not able to obtain clear title,” according to the meeting agenda.
The meeting begins at 9 a.m. at the Manatee County Administration Building, Honorable Patricia M. Glass Chambers,
First Floor, 1112 Manatee Ave. W., Bradenton.
The meeting can be viewed live on www.mymanatee.org/mga and on Manatee Government Access (MGA) Spectrum Channel 644, Frontier Channel 30, and Comcast Channel 20 (within Manatee County).
PINES: Owner closes park
FROM PAGE 19
has exacerbated the challenges of maintaining operations. Long-Term Viability: The cumulative impact of delinquency, loss of units, and the need for significant investments makes it clear that the park’s current model is no longer feasible. Additionally, management cannot continue to bear the risk of another storm coming and once again losing almost all income, all of which is essential to remain afloat.”
The letter ends with: “We want to express our heartfelt apologies for the inconvenience and stress this decision may cause. Please know that we are committed to supporting you through this transition and will provide all available resources to ease the process.”
BIRD COUNT: Reveals surprises
FROM PAGE 15
The Audubon Christmas Bird Count has a long history. On Christmas Day 1900, ornithologist Frank M. Chapman, an officer in the newly-created Audubon Society, proposed a "Christmas Bird Census" that would count birds during the holidays rather than hunt them. The bird count is now held in locations throughout North America.
“The data collected by observers over the past century allow Audubon researchers, conservation biologists, wildlife agencies and other interested individuals to study the long-term health and status of bird populations across North America. When combined with other surveys such as the Breeding Bird Survey, it provides a picture of how the continent's bird populations have changed in time and space over the past hundred years,” according to Audubon. org. “The long term perspective is vital for conservationists. It informs strategies to protect birds and their habitat, and helps identify environmental issues with implications for people as well.”
In addition to Pelletier, O’Neil and Kaempfer, Tom Bisko participated in the bird count.
