| SUN Anna Maria Island’s beaches are open and vacationers are encouraged to return.
‘Let’s Give Thanks Together’ reservations available
The greater Island community is invited to celebrate Thanksgiving together.
BY JOE HENDRICKS SUN CORRESPONDENT | jhendricks@amisun.com
ANNA MARIA – The people of Anna Maria Island, Cortez and the surrounding communities will come together on Thanksgiving Day for a celebration of gratitude, hope and community connection.
The Let’s Give Thanks Together community gathering will take place on Thursday, Nov. 28, from noon until 4 p.m. at The Center of Anna Maria Island, at 407 Magnolia Ave.
“This event invites neighbors, friends and families to share a meal, make lasting memories, and embrace the spirit of togetherness,” event
organizer and Duncan Real Estate owner Darcie Duncan said.
“In light of recent events that have affected our community, this gathering offers an opportunity to reconnect with one another and find comfort in the bonds that make our community so special. The Center, long cherished as a hub for the Island, is the perfect setting for an event designed to bring people together in gratitude and celebration,” Duncan said.
The Let’s Give Thanks Together event will feature a complimentary Thanksgiving meal prepared by local businesses, showcasing the generosity and culinary talent of the Island. Guests can also enjoy live music, a kids’ zone with children’s activities and a welcoming atmosphere where everyone can feel at home.
SEE THANKS, PAGE 19
TDC discusses post-hurricane marketing
The Tourist Development Council is spending $500,000 on an emergency marketing campaign.
BY JOE HENDRICKS SUN CORRESPONDENT | jhendricks@amisun.com
MANATEE COUNTY – The Bradenton Area Convention and Visitors Bureau (BACVB) is engaged in post-hurricane marketing to help bring tourists back to Anna Maria Island.
BACVB Executive Director Elliott Falcione discussed the tourism bureau’s crisis management plan and post-hurricane marketing efforts during the Nov. 14 Manatee County Tourist Development Council (TDC) meeting.
Falcione said every tourism bureau should have crisis management plans for hurricanes and other extreme weather events, red tide, oil spills and more.
Pines homeowners meet with officials
BY LESLIE LAKE SUN CORRESPONDENT | llake@amisun.com
BRADENTON BEACH - Pines
Trailer Park homeowners attended a Nov. 7 city commission meeting seeking answers about the continued existence of the 86-unit park following hurricane-related flooding.
HELENE DAMAGE 'MAJOR'
On Sept. 27, storm surge from Hurricane Helene caused water intrusion into the mobile homes at the Pines Trailer Park. On Oct. 17, Building Official Darin Cushing said that FEMA guidelines related to water intrusion from flooding deem the properties as having major damage.
Federal, state and local regulations state if a home is damaged 50% or more of the market value of the structure, or if it is improved 50% or
more of the value of the structure, then the entire structure must be brought to current floodplain compliance, which is an elevation to 12 feet. On Oct. 29, fire code and setback regulations became part of the discussion. West Manatee Fire Rescue District (WMFR) Fire Marshall Rodney Kwiatkowski outlined fire safety and regulatory standards to be followed for all new mobile home installations at the Pines.
Regulations state that no portion of a mobile home, excluding the tongue, shall be located closer than 10 feet side-to-side, 8 feet end-to-side, or 6 feet end-to-end horizontally from any other mobile home or community building.
JOE HENDRICKS
SEE PINES, PAGE 22
Bradenton man loses leg to flesh-eating bacteria
Vibrio vulnificus is a naturally occurring bacteria that forms in shallow, stagnant, contaminated water.
BY JOE HENDRICKS SUN CORRESPONDENT | jhendricks@amisun.com
BRADENTON – A 66-year-old Bradenton resident had his leg amputated on Nov. 13 after coming in contact with flesh-eating bacteria (vibrio vulnificus) at a time when confirmed vibrio vulnificus cases are on the rise statewide.
The man came in contact with the flesheating bacteria while wading and fishing in Sarasota Bay, near the IMG Academy Golf Club along El Conquistador Parkway in Bradenton.
According to a family member, the longtime Bradenton resident went fishing in Sarasota Bay on Nov. 3 and his shoe or boot rubbed his skin on the back of his leg raw, creating an open wound near his Achilles tendon. The man fished in that location again on Nov. 5.
On Nov. 9, he began experiencing uncontrollable diarrhea, vomiting, severe leg pain and skin discoloration between his
The Bradenton man was fishing in Sarasota Bay, near the IMG Academy Golf Club.
ankle and his knee. After being hospitalized, his leg was amputated on Nov. 11. As of Friday, Nov. 15, he was recovering but he remained unconscious and faces a long recovery process, the family member said.
CASES INCREASE
According to the Florida Department of Health (FDOH) website that is updated every Friday, vibrio vulnificus is a naturally occurring bacteria found in warm, brackish saltwater. The flesh-eating bacteria enters the body through the direct ingestion of
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contaminated water or through open wounds, cuts or scrapes.
Confirmed cases of vibrio vulnificus increased after Hurricane Helene passed through Florida in late September.
According to the FDOH website, “In 2024, Citrus, Hernando, Hillsborough, Lee, Pasco, Pinellas and Sarasota Counties experienced unusual increase due to the impacts of Hurricane Helene. In 2022, Collier and Lee Counties experienced unusual increase due to the impacts of Hurricane Ian.”
We
According to FDOH, 81 cases of vibrio vulnificus have been confirmed in Florida so far in 2024, with 16 reported deaths. In 2023, 46 cases were confirmed statewide, with 11 deaths.
In 2022, there were 74 confirmed cases and 17 deaths.
There’s been one confirmed case of vibrio vulnificus in Manatee County in 2024 and two in Sarasota County, with no vibrio-related deaths in either county. In 2023, there was one confirmed and fatal case in Manatee County and six cases and two fatalities in Sarasota County. This year, Pinellas County leads Florida with 15 confirmed cases and three deaths.
FDOH INSIGHTS
On Friday, FDOH Communications Director Jae Williams provided some additional insights and information about the flesh-eating bacteria.
Williams said the increase in confirmed 2024 cases and deaths is specifically correlated to Hurricane Helene. He noted there was also a spike in reported cases in 2022 after Hurricane Ian.
“Hurricanes bring a ripe environment
Do It AlL!
ISLAND NEWS
IN BRIEF
Tree lighting Thursday
The Bradenton Beach Christmas Tree will be lit on Thursday, Nov. 21 at 6:15 p.m. in front of the post office at 116 Bridge St.
SUN
No day at the beach
A pool company employee shovels mountains of sand out of the pool at Tortuga Beach Resort in Bradenton Beach as hurricane cleanup continues throughout Anna Maria Island.
Bradenton Beach commissioners meet Thursday
City commissioners will discuss a temporary use permit for a tent at the Beach House Restaurant, 200 Gulf Drive N., and roof improvements for the City Pier at the city commission meeting on Thursday, Nov. 21 at noon. New business will include the cancellation of the Jan. 2, 2025 commission meeting, replacement of the air conditioning unit at city hall and a discussion about the Tingley Library. Department head requests will include updates from Police Chief John Cosby and City Clerk Terri Sanclemente. The meeting, the first for newly sworn-in commissioner Scott Bear, will be held at the Katie Pierola Commission Chambers, 107 Gulf Drive N.
Scan this code with your smartphone to go there.
Cosby offers update on sand, debris, road repairs
BY LESLIE LAKE SUN CORRESPONDENT | llake@amisun.com
BRADENTON BEACH – Police
Chief and Public Works Director
John Cosby gave an update on sand removal, debris pickup and road repairs at an emergency city commission meeting on Nov. 13.
The weekly emergency meeting was called to continue the declaration of a tropical event for Hurricane Helene.
“We’re working on mitigating the sand at the end of 25th, 26th and 27th Streets,” Cosby said. With some homeowners having repairs being done to their properties, construction debris has been piling up after the city completed its hurricane-related debris removal.
Effective Nov. 19, all debris and yard waste become the responsibility of homeowners and businesses. Waste Pro will only collect properly bagged debris and yard waste.
Code enforcement actions will begin on Dec. 20 for leftover debris.
He praised debris removal company Ashbritt and debrismonitoring company Debris Tech.
“I can’t say enough about them,” Cosby said. “We got a lot of equipment for a city our size and we’re very happy with that. Everything is going very smoothly.”
He said concrete chunks remain in piles of sand that were pushed aside. Those will be difficult for Ashbritt to process and will need to be removed in a different way.
Cosby said there are some roads damaged during and after the storms that will need repairs.
“We’re going to be meeting with Woodruff next week and we’re going to utilize them for road repairs,” he said. “We’re going to have to put some road base back down. They’ll also be doing the stormwater (drainage) cleanout. We have a good working relationship with Woodruff so they’re going to step up to the plate and help us out.”
Cosby said he will be meeting with FEMA next week, following the state announcement that the agency will be issuing low-cost loans for governments.
“Hopefully we can secure some money at a better rate to get us through until FEMA starts pushing money down,” he said.
Damage assessments completed in Holmes Beach
The substantial damage assessments in Holmes Beach totaled more than $351 million.
BY JOE HENDRICKS SUN
CORRESPONDENT | jhendricks@amisun.com
HOLMES BEACH – The hurricane-related substantial damage assessments have been completed in Holmes Beach and the debris removal efforts continue.
On Nov. 15, Superintendent of Public Works and City Engineer Sage Kamiya and Director of Development Services and Planning and Zoning Administrator Chad Minor shared a statistical update of the efforts completed and still taking place in Holmes Beach.
According to Minor, the substantial damage assessments were completed on Nov. 12 by 20 two-person teams provided by a mission request fulfilled by the Florida Department of Emergency Management (FDEM). The damage assessment team was contracted by FDEM using AC Disaster Consulting. The Crisis Track damage assessment software application used
This entire removal process is expected to be
completed by the end of December.”
Sage Kamiya, Public Works superintendent
by Manatee County was used to collect and record the residential and commercial damage in Holmes Beach.
The damage assessment team assessed 3,331 structures. Four structures were deemed destroyed, 243 structures were deemed to have major damage, 217 were deemed to have minor damage and 2,867 structures were deemed affected by Hurricane Helene and/or Hurricane Milton.
The assessed damage to residential structures totaled approximately $334 million and assessed damage to commercial structures totaled $17.6 million.
According to Minor, the AC Disaster Consulting firm is now moving to Bradenton Beach to assist with the damage assessments to be done there. He noted Holmes
Beach’s building department staff has been working with the Bradenton Beach Building Official Darin Cushing to help train and set up the Crisis Track users that will assist with that damage assessment data collection.
“Holmes Beach staff will continue to support Bradenton Beach as needed,” Minor stated.
BUILDING DEPARTMENT
Since Sept. 27, the day after Hurricane Helene, the building department has issued 544 permits, 433 for hurricane recovery work. The building department has been open for extended hours, including on Saturdays from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m., to help residents and businesses
Hurricanes Helene and Milton damaged Jon and Dusty Crane’s Anna Maria home.
BY JOE HENDRICKS SUN CORRESPONDENT | jhendricks@amisun.com
ANNA MARIA – Jon Crane has resigned from the Anna Maria City Commission.
He announced his resignation during the city commission’s Nov.14 hurricane recovery-related emergency meeting.
“ ‘I come here today with a heavy heart,’ as Lyndon Johnson used to say,” Crane said. “I’m resigning. I can’t live on the Island anymore, as much as I love it.”
Later that day, he tendered his formal resignation letter to City Clerk LeAnne Addy.
Crane said he and his wife are under contract to sell their hurricanedamaged home on the 800 block of North Shore Drive and the sale is expected to close in early December.
“I’m going to make this my last meeting because I’m busy with other
and fellow commissioners that live in this piece of paradise. It’s been a good thing to be part of the community, working on the commission, considering items of importance to the community. I hope I’ve served the community well. I’m going to miss everybody, but life moves on,” Crane said.
Before joining the city commission in 2019, Crane served as a Planning
is currently a Planning and Zoning Board member and her pending resignation will create another planning board vacancy.
Mayor Dan Murphy, Mayor-elect Mark Short and Commissioner Charlie Salem were among those who thanked Crane for his service to the community.
“Thank you, not just for what you’ve done as a commissioner, but with
planning and zoning and all the other things you’ve been actively involved in,” Short said. “We very much appreciate all that and thank you for what you’ve done.”
Audience member Barbara Murphy said, “I want to personally thank Jon and Dusty. They have been huge in the community. Dusty’s involved with the garden club and Jon and Dusty were instrumental with the museum. Jon was docent and vice president (of the Anna Maria Island Historical Society) for a long time and we’re going to miss you so much.”
The Cranes were longtime California residents before they bought their Anna Maria home in late 2011. They discovered Anna Maria during a yearlong retirement tour that included a swing through southwest Florida and a visit with friends who lived in Anna Maria.
After Thursday’s meeting, Crane was asked if they’re moving because of the hurricane damage their home sustained.
“Yes. Our home was decimated,” he said.
Crane
JOE HENDRICKS | SUN
The Crane’s home was damaged during the two hurricanes that struck Anna Maria Island this year.
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.
Nov. 28, all day – City offices closed, Thanksgiving
Nov. 29, all day – City offices closed, Thanksgiving
BRADENTON BEACH
107 GULF DRIVE N.
FOR INFORMATION, CALL 941-778-1005
Please visit www.cityofbradentonbeach.com or contact city hall for more information.
Nov. 20, 9 a.m. – City Commission emergency special meeting
Nov. 20, 1 p.m. – Scenic WAVES meeting
Nov. 21, noon – City Commission meeting
Nov. 27, 9 a.m. – City Commission emergency special meeting
Nov. 28, all day – City offices closed, Thanksgiving Nov. 29, all day – City offices closed, Thanksgiving
HOLMES BEACH
5801 MARINA DRIVE
FOR INFORMATION, CALL 941-708-5800
Please visit www.holmesbeachfl.org or contact city hall for more information.
Mah-jongg for experienced players, Island Branch Library, 5701 Marina Drive, Holmes Beach, 11:30 a.m.
WEDNESDAY, NOV. 27
One-on-One Tech Help, Island Branch Library, 5701 Marina Drive, Holmes Beach, 2-4 p.m.
THURSDAY, NOV. 28
Thanksgiving Day
Lester Family Fun Day returns to Center
Santa Claus is coming to town and one of his first stops will be The Center of Anna Maria Island for the annual Lester Family Fun Day. The holiday celebration kicks off on Saturday, Dec. 7 at 10:30 a.m. with pony rides, face painting, crafts, bounce houses and more. Performances will feature
the Manatee High School drum line and DJ Freeze. The drum line will escort the big guy himself, Santa, in at noon to meet with all of the children to hear what they want for Christmas. Bring cash to enjoy Duffy’s burgers and hot dogs at old-fashioned prices. The golf ball drop 50/50 raffle
takes place at 2 p.m. on the field where the ball closest to or in the hole wins half the pot with the other half going to fund Center programs. Golf balls are $50 each or three for $100 and can be purchased at centerami.org/ events. The Center is located at 407 Magnolia Ave. in Anna Maria.
ANNA MARIA
• AMI Beach Hut
• AMI Coconuts
• Anna Maria General Store
• Anna Maria Life Real Estate
• Anna Maria Life Vacation
Rentals
• Beach Bums
• Bortell’s Lounge
• Cool Beans AMI
• DBTB Juice Bar & Bakery
• Dips Ice Cream
• gRub Tropical BBQ
• Gypsy Soul
• Harry’s Grill
• Lazy Turtle Beach Rentals
• Mademoiselle Paris
• North Shore Café
• Pine Avenue Bait and Tackle
• Poppo’s Taqueria
• Slim’s Place
• Sushi Ramen
• The Center of Anna Maria Island
• The Donut Experiment
• The Porch
Open for business
BRADENTON BEACH
• Anna Maria Oyster Bar
• Back Alley
• Bamboo Island Bar
• BeachHouse Restaurant
• Blooms by the Beach
• Bridge Street Bazaar
• Bridge Tender Inn
• Circle K
• Daiquiri Deck
• Island Donut Company
• Island Time
• Monetti Apparel
• Pane e Amore Italian Café
• Salt Bar & Table
• Shore Thing Tiki Cruises
• Smoquehouse
• Tommyknockers Saloon
HOLMES BEACH
• ACE Hardware
• Alvin’s Island
• AMI Coconuts
• Anchor Inn
• Anna Maria Island Beach Café
• Anna Maria Island Coffee Shack
• Anna Maria Island Dolphin
Tours
• AMI Boat Tours
• Artists Haven
• Baskin Robbins
• Blueberries Café
• Cheesecake Cutie
• China 1
• CrossFit Anna Maria
• Dollar Tree
• Duffy’s Tavern
• Dunkin Donuts
• Edibles & More Country Store
• Fifty-Three Fifty The Pourhouse
• Freckled Fin
• Fun and More Rentals
• Graze Street AMI
• Grooms Auto Repair
• Gypsea Tides
• Holmes Beach Automotive Service
• Holmes Beach Post Office
• Holy Cow Ice Cream
• Hurricane Hanks
• Hurricane Liquor
• Island Animal Clinic
• Island Bazaar
• Island Mail & More
• Isola Bella Italian Eatery
• Kiwi’s Fish & Chips
• La Creperie
• Los Chiludos
• Paradise Bagels
• Pizzano’s Pizza & Grinders
• Publix
• Reed Physical Therapy
• Salon Salon
• Sand Dollar
• Scott’s Deli
• Skinny’s Place
• Small Town Creamery
• Solo’s Pizza
• The AMI Airport Shuttle Guy
• The Chateau
• The Doctor’s Office
• The Doctor’s Garden
• The Hot Dog Guy Boat
• The Ugly Grouper
• Time Saver
• Topsail Steamer
• Vintage Beach
• Walgreens
• West Coast Surf Shop
• Zen Nails
CORTEZ
• Anna Maria Oyster Bar
• A.P. Bell Fish Co.
• Breezy Bakery
• Clam Factory
• Coastline Dolphin & Snorkeling
• Cortez Café
• Cortez Kitchen
• Foxi Coffee
• Pig Out Food Truck
• Star Fish Co.
• Swordfish Grill and Tiki
• The Beach Shop
• The Fox Mercantile
• Tide Tables
• Tyler’s Ice Cream
Post-hurricane property damage assessments begin
BY LESLIE LAKE SUN CORRESPONDENT | llake@amisun.com
BRADENTON BEACH –
Beginning with the mobile home parks, individual damage assessments are being conducted by the city along with state damage assessment teams.
The city of Bradenton Beach and vendor partners with the Florida Division of Emergency Management (FDEM) began conducting post-hurricane assessments of properties on Nov. 14.
“They are starting at the north end with Sandpiper,” according to the City of Bradenton Beach Building Department Facebook page.
“The city has been broken into six zones, after Sandpiper is completed, they will begin, in teams of two, the rest of the city. Each team will be assigned a different zone.”
The 20 state inspectors from AC Disaster Consulting may be identified by their vests and lanyards. If you are not home, or do not want them in your home, damage assessments will be conducted on the outside of the home.
According to the City of Bradenton Beach Building Department:
“Damage assessments are conducted to:
• Guide City and County response efforts;
• Determine the severity and magnitude of the event;
• Quantify the damage to homes and businesses impacted by the disaster;
• Assess the need for federal assistance and estimate disaster impact to businesses, individuals and families; and
CITY
State inspectors from AC Disaster Consulting will be conducting post-hurricane damage assessments throughout Bradenton Beach. SUBMITTED
• Determine whether local resources will be sufficient to effectively respond and recover from the incident.”
The assessment determines what was damaged, as well as when, where and how damage occurred. These assessments start the eligibility determination for disaster recovery programs, such as FEMA’s Public Assistance and Individual Assistance Programs, and other potential programs, according to the city Building Department Facebook page.
Substantial improvement and substantial damage determinations will be confirmed at the time of building permit in accordance with City Ordinance No. 21-536, which states:
For applications for building permits to improve buildings and structures, including
alterations, movement, enlargement, replacement, repair, change of occupancy, additions, rehabilitations, renovations, substantial improvements, repairs of substantial damage and any other improvement of or work on such buildings and structures, the Floodplain Administrator, in coordination with the Building Official, shall:
1) Estimate the market value, or require the applicant to obtain an appraisal of the market value prepared by a qualified independent appraiser, of the building or structure before the start of construction of the proposed work; in the case of repair, the market value of the building or structure shall be the market value before the damage occurred and before any repairs are made;
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2) Compare the cost to perform the improvement, the cost to repair a damaged building to its pre-damaged condition, or the combined costs of improvements and repairs, if applicable, to the market value of the building or structure;
3) Determine and document whether the proposed work constitutes substantial improvement or repair of substantial damage; the determination requires an evaluation of previous permits issued for improvements and repairs as specified in the definition of “substantial improvement;” and
4) Notify the applicant if it is determined that the work constitutes substantial improvement or repair of substantial damage and that compliance with the flood resis-
State damage assessment teams will wear identifying lanyards.
tant construction requirements of the Florida Building Code and this ordinance is required.
“We greatly appreciate your willingness to allow our community inspectors to assess the condition of your property as this is required by the NFIP to protect lives and investment from future flood damages,” the city Building Department Facebook post continues.
“The City of Bradenton Beach must enforce these requirements for federally backed flood insurance to be made available to city residents and property owners at discounted rates based upon the Community Rating System (CRS). Please visit https://www.fema.gov/ flood-insurance for more information or if you have any questions about this process or the inspectors, please contact us immediately by calling the Bradenton Beach Building Department at 941-778-1005.”
OF BRADENTON
Rock ‘N’ Support grant application period opens
BY JOE HENDRICKS SUN CORRESPONDENT | jhendricks@amisun.com
ANNA MARIA ISLAND – The application period for hospitality and tourism industry employees seeking $250-$500 hurricane relief grants opened on Nov. 14.
On Nov. 13, The Center of Anna Maria Island released a three-page information sheet that details the application process and eligibility requirements for the grants available to hurricane-impacted hospitality and tourism industry employees in Cortez, Anna Maria, Holmes Beach, Bradenton Beach and the Manatee County portion of Longboat Key.
Rock ‘N’ Support hurricane relief grants applications can be submitted online at The Center website, www. centerami.org, and the grantspecific https://mywrc.jotform. com/243116034093043 web page.
The hurricane relief funds were generated by the Rock ‘N’ Support concert at the Bradenton Area Convention Center in Palmetto on Nov. 15 with southern rock legend Lynyrd Skynyrd headlining the show and Marcus King as the opening act. All of the Rock ‘N’ Support concert proceeds will benefit hurricane-impacted hospitality and tourism employees.
The grants are available to hospitality and tourism industry employees who were displaced by Hurricane Helene or Hurricane Milton and/or experienced lost wages, evacuation expenses, damage to their home or damage to their belongings. Eligible employees must be employed at a business located in one of the following zip codes: 34215 (Cortez), 34216 (Anna Maria), 34217 (Holmes Beach and Bradenton Beach), 34218 (Bradenton Beach) or the Manatee County portion of 34228 (Longboat Key). To be eligible, an employee had to be employed at a business located in one of those zip codes for six months prior to Sept. 26 and hired on or before March 26.
Full-time employees who averaged more than 25 hours per week are eligible for a $500 grant. Part-time employees who averaged less than 25 hours per week are eligible for a $250 grant. The full-time/part-time determinations will be based on the average number of hours worked during the four weeks prior to Sept. 26.
The application form includes basic questions regarding the employee’s hire date, how their employment was impacted by the hurricanes and what hardships the hurricane-related employment interruptions caused. Applicants will also be asked to upload photos or copies of their driver’s license or valid ID
and copies of their pay stubs for the four weeks prior to Sept. 26.
The list of eligible food service employees includes cooks, servers, bartenders, dishwashers, hostesses, hosts and bussers. The list of eligible hotel employees includes front desk, housekeeping, maintenance, concierge and valet parking personnel. The list of eligible event industry personnel includes caterers, salespeople and operations personnel. Tour operators, including charter boat captains, watersports guides and rental support staff, are also eligible for the grants.
Applications will be reviewed in the order received. Incomplete applications will be declined and can be resubmitted. Applicants will be notified by email when their application is approved or denied. Checks will be mailed to the address listed on the application or they can be picked up in person at the Shuckin’ Good Cause office at 6688 Cortez Road W. in Bradenton.
The grants will be awarded on a firstcome, first-served basis for as long as the Rock ‘N’ Support funds are available. The grant program will end when the funds are exhausted. Applying for a grant does not guarantee receiving a grant and applicants are encouraged to submit their applications as soon as possible.
JOE HENDRICKS | SUN
The proceeds from Friday’s Lynyrd Skynyrd concert will benefit local hospitality and tourism employees. Rock ‘N’ Support T-shirt sales were part of the fundraising efforts.
Lynyrd Skynyrd lends its Rock ‘N’ Support
The concert raised funds to be used for grants given to local hospitality and tourism industry employees.
BY JOE HENDRICKS SUN CORRESPONDENT | jhendricks@amisun.com
PALMETTO – Lynyrd Skynyrd honored and celebrated their southern rock legacy and their deceased band members while barnstorming the Bradenton Area Convention Center on Friday night as part of the Rock ‘N’ Support hurricane relief benefit concert.
Proceeds from the concert that also featured opening act Marcus King will be used to give $250-$500 grants to hurricane-impacted hospitality and tourism industry employees in Anna Maria, Holmes Beach, Bradenton Beach, Cortez and Longboat Key. The concert was organized by The Center of Anna Maria Island, the Bradenton Area Convention and Visitors Bureau and was sponsored by the Manatee County Tourist Development Council and the board of county commissioners.
Led by lead singer Johnny Van Zant and the three-guitar onslaught of Rickey Medlock, Mark Matejka and Damon Johnson, the band joyously ripped through a hit-laden 13-song set after taking the stage to a recording of AC/DC’s “Thunderstruck.”
Van Zant is the younger brother of original Lynyrd Skynyrd frontman Ronnie Van Zant, who died in a 1977 plane crash, along with guitarist Steve Gaines, backup singer Cassie Gaines and three others. Keyboardist Peter Keys, bassist Keith Christopher, drummer Michael Cartellone and
backing vocalists Carol Chase and Stacy Michelle round out the highlytalented, stellar-sounding lineup that admirably carries on the legacy of the original band formed in Jacksonville.
The band opened with “Working for MCA,” a song written about the original lineup’s working relationship with the MCA record label, followed by “Skynyrd Nation,” a Van Zant/ Medlock composition from the band’s 2009 “God & Guns” album.
They then launched into “What’s Your Name,” from the Street Survivors album released three days before the fatal plane crash. When the song ended, Van Zant said, “Good evening, Good evening. How you doing Florida?”
He then explained the band’s presence that evening after ending their latest tour in late September.
“Our manager called me up and said ‘Hey Johnny, how about helping out south Florida? He said we can go play a show and help out some people. God bless you guys. I’m a Floridian. I love our state. Let’s all have a good time.”
The band then launched into “That Smell,” a 1977 song about some of the original band members’ struggles with alcohol and drugs.
After “Down South Jukin’” and the cautionary handgun tale, “Saturday Night Special,” the band paused before playing another crowd-favorite, “The Ballad of Curtis Loew.”
Van Zant made a toast and thanked the audience for keeping Lynyrd Skynyrd’s music around for all these years. After asking how many diehard Lynyrd Skynyrd fans were in the house, and encouraging everyone to sing along, Van Zant dedicated “The
Ballad of Curtis Loew” to Shorty Medlock (Rickey Medlock’s musical grandfather) and the fictional character Curtis Loew who represents some of the musicians Ronnie Van Zant grew up around in Jacksonville.
The band then dedicated “Tuesday’s Gone” to Gary Rossington, the lead guitarist who died in 2023 as the last member left over from the classic lineup. A collage of Rossington photos played on the video screen as the band played on.
Before “Simple Man,” Van Zant made an apparent reference to the recent presidential election and said, “Do you guys still believe in America now?” which prompted loud applause from many in the audience. He then dedicated “Simple Man” to the first responders, doctors, nurses and military personnel and asked the audience to light up the room up with their cell phones as the song was played.
“Gimme Three Steps” came next, followed by “Call Me The Breeze,” with Marcus King joining in on electric guitar. The main set ended with a rousing version of “Sweet Home Alabama” and after a short pause the band returned
JOE HENDRICKS | SUN
Rickey Medlock and Damon Johnson made up two-thirds of Lynyrd Skynyrd’s three-guitar sound.
JOE HENDRICKS | SUN Marcus King was the opening act for the Rock ‘N’ Support concert.
Cortez Fishing Festival details forthcoming
The Cortez Commercial Fishing Festival funds improvements at the FISH Preserve.
BY LESLIE LAKE SUN CORRESPONDENT | llake@amisun.com
CORTEZ – Mindful of residents’ concerns following damage from hurricanes, FISH board members asked the Cortez community for input before scheduling the February 2025 Cortez Commercial Fishing Festival.
At a Nov. 11 meeting at Star Fish Co. with Cortez residents, the consensus of residents and Florida Institute for Saltwater Heritage members was that the annual festival should be held. The two-day festival features music, arts and crafts, fresh seafood and educational activities.
Discussions centered around the impact on the community versus the uplifting effect a festival would have on a community that’s been rebuilding from damage since Hurricane Helene in September.
“There were concerns that the neighborhood might be too overwhelmed, or that it’s too close and there might not be time,” FISH member Karen Bell said. “The
thoughts against so far were there’s too much going on right now.”
Some suggested possibly scaling back the festival or changing its configuration to lessen the impact on neighbors.
The two-day festival was rained out for one day in 2024 and was canceled altogether in 2021 due to the COVID-19 pandemic. The festival is a fundraiser for maintenance of the FISH Preserve, as well as for multiple community projects.
Details about the size and configuration of the festival will be announced at the FISH board meeting scheduled on Monday, Dec. 2.
Cortez residents met with FISH board members at Star Fish Co. to discuss the staging of the Cortez Com mercial Fishing Festival next February.
KRISTIN SWAIN | SUN
Roser donates to migrant workers, families
The Roser Guild Migrant Sewing Group created 285 quilts, 187 hats, 30 baby blankets and four sweaters over the past 12 months to be donated to local migrant workers. Pastor Dirk Rodgers blessed the items during a Nov. 10 worship service at Roser Memorial Community Church in Anna Maria.
Food pantry reopens to help community
The Roser Food Pantry is open and ready to help community members affected by recent hurricanes. Any Anna Maria Island residents or workers in need can come to the pantry at 511 Pine Ave. in Anna Maria on Mondays or Wednesdays from 10 a.m. to noon to receive assistance. Each person receives a filled grocery bag of items from the refrigerator, freezer and shelves. Each person requiring assistance should bring a current form of photo identification and a paystub to confirm employment with an Island employer. Employers can also refer their displaced employees to the food bank for assistance. For more information, contact Roser Church at 941-778-0414.
BEACH BEAT
BRADENTON BEACH
10/28, 10:15 p.m., burglary. A resident of the Pines Trailer Park walked into the Bradenton Beach Police station to report miscellaneous items stolen from her trailer. She told police that she had been cleaning out
the residence, and at around 6:15 p.m., left to take a break for dinner. Upon returning, the resident stated a black tool box and a radio had been taken from a bedroom. According to the police report, the trailer suffered major damage from the hurricane, making it easily accessible. The resident stated she observed some people walking around the area but was unable to provide specific details. She asked for extra patrols in the area, and that request was granted the following day.
Vehicle lands upside down
A traffic accident on Nov. 14 resulted in a maroon SUV coming to rest upside down near the Gulf Drive/Spring Avenue intersection in Anna Maria. Sgt. Brett Getman of the Manatee County Sheriff’s Office Anna Maria Unit said an elderly female was transported to HCA Florida Blake Hospital for trauma care. The Florida Highway Patrol investigated the accident.
Repeat offender arrested for vacation rental trespassing
Devon Keith Guidry has been arrested at least three times.
BY JOE HENDRICKS SUN CORRESPONDENT | jhendricks@amisun.com
ANNA MARIA –
Devon Keith Guidry, 28, of Bradenton, was arrested on Nov. 11 after being observed entering a residence at 107 Maple Ave. in Anna Maria.
According to a press release issued by the Manatee County Sheriff’s Office (MCSO), the arrest followed a tip from a resident who saw Guidry enter the property wearing black pants and no shirt. The vacation rental home at which Guidry was arrested is owned by the 107 Maple LLC that lists developer Shawn Kaleta as its manager.
According to the probable cause affidavit (PCA) filed by arresting officer James McDermott Jr., Guidry was arrested on the
third-floor balcony after deputies observed him exiting a bedroom.
According to the PCA, “The residence is a licensed vacation rental that costs $1,500 a night, with a cleaning fee of $750. The total loss for occupying the property would be $2,250. It was determined through the property manager that the offender obtained lodging and accommodations having a value greater than $1,000 at the licensed vacation rental with the intent to defraud the owners and management company.”
After being trespassed from the Maple Avenue property, Guidry was transported to the Manatee County Jail, where he remained incarcerated as of Nov. 17. He is charged with a third-degree felony count of obtaining food or lodging with intent to defraud ($1,000 or more).
The PCA notes Guidry has a history of being arrested for similar crimes.
PREVIOUS ARRESTS
On March 19, Guidry was arrested by an MCSO deputy in Anna Maria and charged with trespassing on a residential property at 403 North Bay Blvd. in Anna Maria – an offense to which he later pled no contest.
On July 29, MCSO Anna Maria Unit leader Sgt. Brett Getman arrested Guidry for trespassing on a vacation rental property at 313 Poinsettia Road in Anna Maria. He was charged, and later convicted, on a first-degree misdemeanor count of trespassing on property other than a structure or conveyance.
On June 6, 2023, Guidry was arrested by the Holmes Beach Police Department after having been previously trespassed from the Benderson-owned shopping center at 3302 East Bay Drive. As a result of that 2023 arrest, Guidry was convicted on a third-degree felony charge of carrying a concealed firearm and convicted on a thirddegree felony charge of armed trespass on property other than a structure or conveyance.
Guidry
RICH BUCKLEY | SUBMITTED
OUTDOORS
Fall and winter wading
any anglers think that wade fishing is a warm water activity, but fall and winter wading can produce some fantastic results and gives you many advantages over anglers fishing from a boat. Getting in the water puts you in the fish’s realm, giving you the advantage of a silent approach. This can be particularly important when area waters cool and clear up, making fish especially wary. Wading allows you to keep a low profile and make a stealthier approach. On clear “blue bird” days when fish are particularly spooky or hard to see, try standing still and waiting for them! When fish see you just before you see them it’s a good time to try this approach. Anchor well away from the area you intend to fish, get out of the boat and stake out a pothole or sandy area where you have the best visibility. By staying a long cast away, you can often see fish when they enter a hole or pass across a white sand bottom. Position yourself off to the side in the grass where
you’re less visible, keep a low profile and be still. Just waiting them out gives you a big advantage when targeting reds, trout, snook and other game fish as they wander the flat. When you make a presentation, don’t make any quick moves, and make your casts low and slow. It takes patience but can be very productive.
When wading, you won’t need heavy tackle unless you’re fishing docks or other structure. Spin and bait casting leaders should have a 30-pound bite tippet. In clear water, you might want to downsize leaders. This will often fool wary trout, but you’ll risk being cut off should you encounter a big snook.
Since the last two hurricanes, local guides are reporting some of the best action they’ve seen in years. Recently Capt. Tom Stephens reported that anglers who fished with him last week in Sarasota Bay had phenomenal success.
“We caught 32 reds, 30 snook, tons of trout all on fly in two days,” he said.
Capt. Justin Moore reports he’s seeing more reds than in many years.
The key to productive and comfortable winter wading as waters cool is to stay warm and dry. A good pair of waders, wading boots, sweatpants (on coldest days) and warm socks will do the trick. Add a pair of polarized glasses, a hat with a dark underbrim, a wade vest or pack, and you’re in business.
When wading in winter or summer, it’s important to make sure you’re not exposing any open cuts or wounds to saltwater. A bacteria called vibrio which is present naturally in area saltwater can cause serious complications and even be fatal. While it’s not often that this happens, it could be exacerbated by water quality issues. According to information from the Florida Department of Health, vibrio vulnificus normally lives in warm seawater and is part of a group of vibrios that are called “halophilic” because they require salt. Vibrio infections are rare, but just recently an angler wading Long Bar in Sarasota Bay contracted the disease, which required an amputation. According to the department web site, “Water and wounds do not
mix. Do not enter the water if you have fresh cuts or scrapes.”
Give winter wade fishing a try. It gets you out of the boat and provides some exercise and excellent angling opportunities.
RUSTY CHINNIS
RUSTY CHINNIS | SUN
Anne and Mike McCarthy, of Pennsylvania, with one of the reds they caught in a fantastic two days of fishing with Capt. Tom Stephens in Sarasota Bay last week.
Florida Department of Health issues red tide alert
BY LESLIE LAKE SUN CORRESPONDENT | llake@amisun.com
ANNA MARIA - The Florida Department of Health in Manatee County (DOH-Manatee) issued a health alert on Nov. 15 for the presence of red tide near the former location of the Rod and Reel Pier, 875 North Shore Drive. Water samples were taken on Nov. 12. Red tide is caused by high concentrations of a toxin-producing dinoflagellate called Karenia brevis (K. brevis), a type of microscopic algae found in the Gulf of Mexico. Red tide typically forms naturally offshore, commonly in late summer or early fall, and is carried into coastal waters by winds and currents.
“K. brevis produces potent neurotoxins (brevetoxins) that can be harmful to the humans, pets, fish and wildlife,” according to DOHManatee. “Wind and wave action can break open K. brevis cells and release toxins into the air. This is why you should monitor conditions and use caution when visiting affected water bodies.”
RED TIDE REPORT
High
(respiratory irritation, shellfish harvesting closures, fish kills, water discoloration)
Medium
(probable respiratory irritation, shellfish harvesting closures, fish kills)
Low
(possible respiratory irritation, shellfish harvesting closures, fish kills)
People can experience varying degrees of eye, skin and respiratory irritation from red tide.
Very low (possible respiratory irritation)
Background (no effects)
None (no red tide present)
Source: Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission
Sensitive individuals – seniors, those who are immunocompromised and those who have chronic respiratory conditions - may be at risk of experiencing more severe symptoms. K. brevis can discolor water and give it a red or brown color and cause fish kills and shellfish poisoning.
FROM THE PREHISTORIC TO
DOH-Manatee advises individuals to take the following precautions:
• Look for informational signage posted at most public beaches and/or check current water quality status at Protecting Water Together;
• Do not wade or swim in or around red tide. Red tide can cause skin irritation, rashes and burning/sore eyes;
• Wash your skin and clothing
with soap and fresh water if you have had recent contact with red tide, especially if your skin is easily irritated;
• Remain cautious and stay away from the location, especially if you have chronic respiratory conditions;
• Residents living in beach areas are advised to close windows and run the air conditioner. Make sure the air conditioner filter is maintained according to manufacturer's specifications;
• Do not harvest or eat mollusks, shellfish or distressed or dead fish from this location. If caught alive and healthy, finfish are safe to eat if they are filleted and the entrails discarded. Rinse fillets with tap or bottled water;
• Red tide can cause illness and death of other animals, such as pets and livestock. Keep animals away from and out of the water and sea life and away from dead marine life and sea foam. If your pet swims in waters with red tide, bathe it with soap and water as soon as possible.
“And the weather’s not getting any better,” he added, regarding the increased frequency and intensity of the severe weather and tidal events that impact Anna Maria property owners.
Crane said he and Dusty still like the area and they might relocate to Bradenton.
In his resignation letter, Crane wrote: “As I announced at the commission meeting today, I am resigning from my position as commissioner on the Anna Maria City Commission. It is with a great deal of regret but it is unavoidable. I feel like I can no longer safely reside on Anna Maria Island. I haven’t lived in my home since Sept. 26 and my property is under a contract of sale. It has been a great honor and privilege to serve alongside the mayor and other commissioners and you and your staff have been terrific.”
REPLACEMENT PROCESS
Crane is in the first year of another two-year term in office and his sudden resignation creates an unexpected vacancy on the city commission.
The city is now accepting applications from those interested in serving the remainder of Crane’s commission term. Applications can be downloaded at the city website, www.cityofannamaria. com.
On Nov. 19 at 2 p.m., the current commission, minus Crane, will conduct the city business listed on the agenda, including securing the engineering services needed to repair the hurricanedamaged City Pier. After dispensing with the agenda items, Short will be sworn in as Anna Maria’s new mayor, ending Murphy’s 10year tenure as mayor. Incumbent commissioner Gary McMullen and new commissioner Chris Arendt will also be sworn in and a new vice-mayor will be selected.
Food Network stars Hunter Fieri, far left, and Guy Fieri, center, met a team from West Manatee Fire Rescue’s Station 3 in Holmes Beach on Nov. 13 as a group from the Guy Fieri Foundation rolled into town to feed local first responders in the aftermath of Hurricanes Helene and Milton. Right, Holmes Beach City Clerk Stacey Johnston met Food Network superstar chef Guy Fieri on Nov. 13.
CITY OF HOLMES BEACH | SUBMITTED
BACTERIA: Man loses leg to flesheating bacteria
FROM PAGE 3
for vibrio. They bring storm surge and rain and then we have that brackish water that vibrio needs. Hurricanes bring a lot of contamination and it’s not just debris and household materials. We have sewage lines ruptured and garbage cans spilling over. There’s a lot of opportunity for this standing water to become contaminated. When the storm surge recedes and the rain goes away, you still have standing water baking in the Florida sun for several days. That’s where vibrio’s able to develop. Vibrio is not necessarily in floodwater, but it’s in contaminated water. Regardless of the contamination source, it’s warm, shallow, brackish, stagnant water. That’s where you’re going to find it. You’re not going to find it in the middle of the Gulf, the middle of Lake Okeechobee or in the middle of a moving river,” Williams said.
“With hurricanes, not only is the environment more conducive to vibrio, but people often find themselves needing to wade through standing floodwater. There are many reasons to stay out of floodwater… but the scariest would be vibrio,” Williams said.
Regarding the Bradenton man, Williams said, “If he was fishing in the (first) week of November, that would not be attributed to either of the hurricanes. Unfortunately, this is just one of those regular cases we see throughout the year.”
Williams said Florida averages about 35 confirmed vibrio vulnificus cases and 10-12 deaths per year. FDOH doesn’t test Florida waters for vibrio vulnificus or issue vibrio vulnificus advisories when a confirmed case is reported because the harmful but short-lived bacteria usually washes away or
There are many reasons to stay out of floodwater… but the scariest would be vibrio.”
Jae Williams, FDOH Communications Director
dissipates before the area can be tested.
“There’s no way for us to go back and find it,” Williams said, noting that each confirmed case is reported to the health department. “Vibrio vulnificus is a reportable disease in Florida. If a health care facility diagnoses someone with vibrio vulnificus, that facility is required by law to report that to the Department of Health.
“It’s rare, but it’s scary and its serious. It’s unfortunate that this man’s leg was amputated, but he’s very lucky they got it before he died,” Williams said. “If you wade in standing water and develop severe flu-like symptoms, get medical attention immediately.”
Williams was asked if vibrio presents a risk to dogs and other animals.
“Certainly,” he replied. “If they ingest it or have open wounds, they are at risk the same way a human would be. Pets shouldn’t be in shallow, standing water either.”
THANKS: Community event reservations available
PAGE 3
“This event is about more than just a meal; it’s about connection,” Duncan said.
“Thanksgiving Together is our chance to gather as a community, share laughter and stories and celebrate the strength and kindness that define Anna Maria Island and beyond.
“The event is a reflection of the resilience and warmth that make our community unique. It’s a time for neighbors to come together, not only to enjoy a
SUBMITTED
meal but also to create new memories and embrace the spirit of the holiday season,” Duncan said.
Attendees are encouraged to bring a non-perishable food item to support the
Food Bank of Manatee. Families are also invited to share their favorite recipes for a Community Gathering Cookbook – a collection of dishes and traditions that will represent the heart of the Anna Maria Island community.
To ensure there’s enough food and seating for everyone, RSVP reservations are required. Guests can reserve a spot by visiting bit.ly/AMIThanksgiving or the www.eventbrite.com website and searching for Let’s Give Thanks Together.
FROM
REAL ESTATE
A country of renters
The United States has been living the American dream of home ownership since roughly the end of World War II. Obviously, there were homeowners before then, but the end of the war brought a surge of homebuilding, prosperity and buyers anxious to get on with their lives. Many of us were raised with the assumption that we would eventually own a home of our own, and for the most part, that was true. However, many have reset their priorities, and a large portion of the population is remaining renters, a significant shift in our culture.
Castles in the Sand
LOUISE BOLGER
nance negatives attached to it may not fit their desired lifestyle.
The monthly payment at 6% is $2,398 not including property tax and insurance, which I would estimate to be at least another $600 a month, totaling about $3,000 a month, not including home maintenance.
In my view, this is happening because of a combination of lifestyle and finance. Almost always, two people in a relationship or singles work full time jobs, even if they have children. In addition, so many people are self-indulgent and owning a home with all of the financial and mainte-
There are, however, plenty of people who want to buy a home, but the numbers aren’t working for them. We have had a slight dip in interest rates for mortgages, but it’s not enough to justify giving up the freedom and flexibility of renting.
For example, let’s assume the average rate for a 30-year, fixed-rate mortgage is 6%. If you are able to find a home in Manatee County for $500,000, which in this market is difficult, and are in a position to put down 20%, you would be looking at a $400,000 mortgage.
The benefits if you own your own home are that you will accrue value by paying off your mortgage and enjoying appreciation and a possible tax advantage. Certainly, if you plan on living in your home long term, typically at least five years, which is considered the break-even point, buying will work to your advantage. Owning your own home has always been the major vehicle to build wealth for the average person.
Zillow tells me the median rental in Bradenton is $2,500.
Every potential buyer has a different scenario. Not everyone has $100,000 available and putting down a smaller amount would increase the mortgage,
carrying charges and also adds private mortgage insurance (PMI) on any home purchase putting down less than 20%. This makes renting even more attractive and encourages people to remain in their rentals. Renters are choosing to stay put; 62% of renters renewed their leases in the second quarter of this year, up from 60.5% a year ago. Even with rents going up and in short supply especially after the hurricane damage this year, some people may still calculate that renting is better for them than owning. I have always been a prohomeownership person; that’s what I was taught and what I learned in the many years I was involved in the real estate market. But I’m starting to believe that we are in the middle of a shift in philosophy relative to lifestyle and home ownership. If that’s true, it makes me really sad and puts a huge dent in the American Dream.
County: Seafood Shack sale not yet closed
Manatee County approved a $13 million purchase price for the parcel in September, before Hurricane Helene.
BY LESLIE LAKE
SUN CORRESPONDENT | llake@amisun.com
CORTEZ – More than a month after the projected closing date of Oct. 7 for Manatee County’s $13 million purchase of the Seafood Shack parcel, the property has still not changed hands.
Manatee County spokesperson Bill Logan wrote in a Nov. 5 email to The Sun that the sale had not closed and he was unable to share an anticipated closing date. No reason has been given for the delay.
According to the Manatee County Property Appraiser’s website, the owner of the parcel at 4110 127th St. W. in Cortez remains Vandyk 1st Gulf Coast Marina LLC.
Manatee County commissioners unanimously approved the $13 million purchase at a Sept. 5 land use meeting with anticipated use of the property as a public boating access facility with a boat ramp, dry storage facility and marina.
The property, which consists of seven upland parcels of approximately
5.9 acres and two submerged land leases of 2.9 acres, was appraised at $12.55 million. That appraisal assumed that two expired submerged land leases will be renewed.
Following Hurricane Helene in September and Hurricane Milton in October, the buildings and docks on the parcel sustained damage. Pieces of
broken dock remained in the parking lot as recently as Nov. 14.
In an Oct. 11 email to The Sun, Logan had written: “According to our property acquisition folks, the sale has not closed. We are optimistic it closes in October.”
Logan stated in that email the terms of the sale remain unchanged.
LESLIE LAKE | SUN
The Seafood Shack sustained hurricane damage, including broken windows, missing shingles and damage to docks. Pieces of broken dock littered the Seafood Shack parking lot on Nov. 14.
PINES: Homeowners meet with officials
PUBLIC COMMENT
During a public comment segment of the meeting, several Pines residents and park owner Shawn Kaleta spoke to commissioners.
Kaleta, manager of Pines Park Investors LLC, was the first speaker.
“Obviously, we’ve been hit with a couple hurricanes. We’re all trying to dig out of the sand as a community and try to restore our homes, our businesses, our lives back to normal as quick as possible,” Kaleta said. He said he has spoken to Pines residents.
“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,” he said. “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.”
Following Kaleta, Pines Trailer Park residents stepped up to the podium, seeking answers about the city’s final determination.
Brett Williams owns seven mobile homes at the Pines.
“I know you have legal stuff to go through, but if your intent is to say we don’t want trailers anymore, we want to replace them with new stuff, I get it,” Williams said. “I don’t want to put all the money out if we’re going to do that. I’d like to speed this up so we can move on. Right now everything is in limbo.”
Ryan Pfahler, who has lived there five years and owns two rental mobile homes there asked, “While we are fixing trailers can we be living there? How long to do we have to make improvements? Are we allowed to pull in a travel trailer in the meantime while we’re repairing or rebuilding? What happens if most of the
trailers do not meet the 50% rule?”
Jim Entwistle purchased a mobile home at the Pines as an investment in April for $200,000 and has rental reservations there from January through April.
CITY’S INTENT
City Attorney Ricinda Perry addressed questions about the city’s intent.
“The intent is to save you, to save the community,” she said.” I went to Shawn and said what can you do to try to save this? Shawn asked if he could elevate the structures, and I said they’re not structurally sound. He said, ‘What else can I do?’
We could talk about a rezone, but the densities are tough to get there. Is there another product you can make that meets the definition of a mobile home park, install that and get to the densities and the setback? Possibly.”
“Shawn has asked us to explore that option - if the park can’t exist with the existing structures can he put another product in there at that density, that’s elevated as a replacement?”
Perry said those changes would require a hearing with Planning and Zoning, at
least two commission meetings and would require a Planned Unit Development.
“It is our intent, our goal and our desire to keep that kind of community there, whatever that looks like,” Perry said.
CITY RESPONDS TO QUESTIONS
“You have FEMA policies, guidance and regulations. On top of that you have the Florida Building Code, the fire code, and they all have different pieces and roles in this entire situation,” Perry said. “One of the things that’s really important for the city is to come up with a consistent, uniform approach in administering the flood plain ordinance.”
The process applies to every structure in Bradenton Beach.
“After we work our way through that, that’s what gives you the decision about moving forward,” she said.
“You’re frustrated and you want quick answers. We understand that. I will tell you this - most communities when they’ve been hit by one disaster, not two, they adopt a moratorium and shut everything down,” Perry said.
Many homeowners have received letters
of substantial damage based on initial assessments. Those will be followed by in-person inspections. The state is in the procurement stage of having 10 teams of two people each assist the city with those inspections.
Perry cited the city floodplain ordinance as it pertains to manufactured homes that are substantially damaged as a result of a flood.
“That’s 12 feet,” Perry said. “If we’re all being honest, none of these structures will make it to that height. Your engineering costs alone are probably going to exceed your 50% just to figure out if you can elevate it.”
Perry said that most of the Pines mobile homes are more than 50 years old.
“I have researched the life span of a mobile home and it is said 30-50 years max if they are well maintained and not in a marine environment,” she said.
“Engineering estimates are about $25,000 and I’ve heard everything from $115,000 to $150,000 to raise,” Perry said. She said there have been meetings with city officials, Kaleta, Sam Negrin, Cushing and former city Building Official Steve Gilbert.
“Unless you do not have substantial damage, we don’t see a way to save it,” she said. “Once you elevate, you also have to come into compliance with the fire codes, meaning they have to have proper setbacks and fire rated walls for their own safety. So, you’ll have to come into compliance with that by repositioning the units somehow or shrinking it down to fit into the setbacks.”
She said units must be habitable for those who want to live in them. A travel trailer cannot be pulled in; they are not allowed.
If 50% of units are damaged does the park go away?
“That’s a private issue with your landowner, not a city issue,” Perry said.
LESLIE LAKE | SUN
Shawn Kaleta speaks on behalf of the Pines ownership at the Nov. 7 Bradenton Beach City Commission meeting.
TDC: Discusses post-hurricane marketing
After hurricanes Helene and Milton, the tourism bureau worked side by side with the Manatee County Public Information Outreach office that conveys the county’s hurricane-related information and actions to the local and regional media.
“What we’re doing is monitoring what they’re telling the community and then we’re taking that message, sometimes tweaking it, to talk to our target market,” Falcione said.
“Let’s be careful with the types of adjectives we use locally that could confuse or potentially embellish our target market. We always want to be 100% honest, consistent, but one word that was used by an official related to tourism - they used the word ‘clobbered.’ ‘We were clobbered on the west coast of Florida.’ The optics of that is ‘leveled.’ Those are adjectives that are going to cost more (tourist tax) money to correct,” Falcione said.
Regarding the bureau’s post-hurricane actions, Falcione said they quickly assessed the damage, talked to industry members, talked to city officials on Anna Maria Island and responded directly to
emails from disgruntled tourists who were not getting refunds or credits for their canceled vacation accommodations. He said the bureau sent goodie bags that included beach towels and Tervis tumblers to some of those disgruntled tourists, which he hoped would produce some positive social media feedback.
Falcione said the bureau doesn’t tell people how to run their businesses, but they did relay those cancellation refund and credit concerns to some of the Island’s vacation rental management companies.
Falcione said the county contracts public relation firms that monitor the local, national and international media coverage of news items that could impact the county’s tourism marketing efforts.
“CNN and the Weather Channel really did a poor job of the messaging, the embellishment. You have journalists that find the destructive area as the backdrop. And then it’s out there, so then we have to go and correct that messaging,” Falcione said.
Falcione said the annual TDC budget always includes $1 million for emergency marketing and $500,000 is being used “to attack our primary and secondary markets, radio influencers.”
Those efforts included bringing radio journalist Larry Richert from KDKA Radio in Pittsburgh down to do a live broadcast from the Bradenton Beach Pier on Nov. 15.
“If he’s saying the beaches are beautiful, Anna Maria Island is open for vacationers, they’re going to believe him,” Falcione said.
“We are seeing curb appeal get better every day, every week. We’re now correcting the mis-messaging. We’re cross-checking that with social media. We’re cross-checking that with our website. Every day a business reopens, it’s shown on a map. Now we are, through digital advertising, blitzing our secondary markets and we’re partnering with Visit Sarasota on our primary markets through digital advertising; and probably in about three weeks to a month, we’re partnering with Visit Florida on a dollar-for-dollar co-op to overlay all of our target markets,” Falcione said.
ADDITIONAL BUSINESS
• The TDC members supported Falcione’s request to recommend county commission approval to temporarily provide the city of Bradenton Beach with $375,000 in tourist tax revenues
to repair the unrepaired portion of the hurricane-damaged floating dock next to the Bradenton Beach Pier. When FEMA reimburses the city, the city will return that $375,000 to the county.
• Having lost his county commission primary race, County Commissioner Ray Turner will vacate his role as TDC chair, with a new chair to be appointed by the county commission. Palmetto Mayor Shirley Groover Bryant and vacation rental industry representative Ed Chiles are also vacating their council seats and their replacements will soon be appointed.
• The council approved Falcioe’s request to recommend county commission approval of a $100,000 expenditure to serve as seed money for the Realize Bradenton’s new Bradenton Art and Music Festival (BAM) that will replace the annual blues festival that has been moved to Lakewood Ranch. The BAM festival will take place along the Bradenton Riverwalk on Saturday, April 5.
• The council supported Falcione’s recommendation to seek county commission approval of a $50,000 expenditure to support a Multi-Cultural Festival to take place at LECOM Park in Bradenton in July.
BY MONICA SIMPSON SPECIAL TO THE SUN
Sato Real Estate gets first win
ANNA MARIA – In an attempt to make up for lost time due to the storms that devastated the Island, The Center’s soccer schedule was jam packed last week for both the youth and adult leagues.
The 8- to 10-year-old action started off the week with three regular season games.
After finishing the regular season games last Monday, the two youth leagues started the first round of playoffs the following night.
Gulf Drive Café won the first game against Adrian Griffin Interiors 1-0, while Solid Rock Construction defeated The Fish Guy Aquarium Services team by two goals. Chandler LaPensee had the solo goal for the Gulf Drive team to advance them to the next round of playoffs against the Moss Builders.
LaCreperie had a bye week, securing their place in round two of the playoffs against the Solid Rock Construction team. Goals for the Solid Rock came off the boots of Heidi Bannick and Ruby Kesten.
In teen soccer action, HSH Design earned their place in the final game of the season against the winner of the Solid Rock Construction and Better on Bikes match up.
CENTER NOTES
Find post-hurricane peace
Join yogi Gayle Prebis at The Center of Anna Maria Island, 407 Magnolia Ave., Anna Maria, for free classes each Thursday at 10:30 a.m. and 5:30 p.m. Classes will feature gentle movement, stretching, mindful breath work and guided meditation. No yoga experience is required, and this class is for all levels of fitness abilities. Heal as a community by reconnecting with our minds and bodies finding peace after the storms. To register or for more information, email hello@centerami.org or call 941-778-1908.
Better on Bikes easily secured their place with a 7-2 win against Shady Lady Horticultural Services. The Shady Lady team fought hard during the two halves of play, scoring their two points with strikes by Asher Patel and Jesse Zaccagnino. Jack Zaccagnino had four stops in the game.
Renan Kesten’s hat trick helped the Better on Bikes team to victory. Teammates Noah Caballero, Theo Aupelle and TJ Hagey contributed to the winning score.
Sterling Holiday, Kaden Sasaki, Parker Svoboda and Mason Moss put the soccer ball past The Gitt Team keeper for the win. Sasaki put up two of the five points for HSH.
The Gitt Team stayed in the game with the help of scoring by Ryk Kesten and Lucas Signor. Kesten scored his hat trick to close out his team’s the season.
In adult soccer action, Sato Real Estate earned their first win of the season last Thursday night in the fourth game of the night. Off to an uncharacteristically slow start, the Sato team won by one goal against the AMI Dolphin Tours team.
Robert Fellowes scored the only goal for AMI Dolphin Tours. Danny Anderson and Jenna Steininger each put the soccer ball past Tyler Bekkerus, Dolphin Tours goalie. Bekkerus finished the week six game with 10 saves.
Across the pitch, Marcello Rubio also had 10 saves for the Sato Real Estate team. Ben Sato put two saves in the record books, contributing to his team’s victory.
Starting the night off, team Pool America had an easy time against Language Services Associates, winning 11-1. Gulf Drive Café and Solid Rock Construction were evenly matched, finishing their game in a tie.
In game three, Ross Built Custom Homes had a three-point win over Hampton Paintings. Bubble Binz closed out the evening’s play with a huge win against team Moss Builders. The win put Bubble Binz just one point under the Moss Builders team after six weeks of adult co-ed soccer.
BENEFIT: Lynyrd Skynyrd lends its Rock ‘N’ Support
FROM PAGE 11
for a much-anticipated “Free Bird” encore.
The song began with a short clip from an old Ronnie Van Zant interview. During the song, a candlelit list of former and deceased band members appeared on the screen. Midway through the song, Van Zant placed a black hat on his flag-draped mic stand and walked off stage as the band continued playing with a recording and video footage of Ronnie Van Zant singing the final portion of the song that ended with its classic, guitardriven, up-tempo musical outro.
OTHER ELEMENTS
Performing as a solo acoustic act, Marcus King’s well-received opening set included several of his original songs and a number of crowd-pleasing cover
songs that included Kris Kristofferson’s “Me and Bobby McGee,” The Marshall Tucker Band’s “Heard It In a Love Song,” a gorgeous rendition of the soul classic, “When a Man Loves a Woman,” and a set closing, sing-along version of The Marshall Tucker Band’s “Can’t You See.”
After King’s set, Bradenton Area
Convention and Visitors Bureau Executive Director Elliott Falcione addressed the crowd.
“This concert was literally planned three weeks ago. The band scrambled to be here tonight,” he said before thanking Center Executive Director Chris Culhane, John and Amanda Horne from the Anna Maria Oyster Bar and the Shuckin’ Good Cause hospitality initiative, The Shriners and several others who assisted with the concert. He also noted the concert was being produced by Pittsburgh native and legendary music promoter and producer Rich Engler.
To apply for a concert-supported hurricane relief grant, visit The Center website at www.centerami.org.
JOE HENDRICKS | SUN Mark Matejka carries on the Lynyrd Skynyrd tradition of great guitar players.
FUN IN THE SUN
CLASSIFIEDS
BOATS
FIRST, I WISH ALL MY ISLAND FRIENDS WELL. This to shall pass. Yes, boats are selling. Yes, we will buy damaged boats. Yes, we need boats as folks are getting insurance checks.
Dave Struber/Owner 24 Years, Islandboatsales. net-941-288-3489
CARE GIVER
ELDER CARE by Longtime resident. Many References. Part time to help with shopping, companionship, cooking etc. Call Cheryl 941-685-0045
COMMERCIAL SALES, RENT & LEASE
HAVE YOU BEEN thinking of selling? We NEED properties to List for SALE!!! Duplexes, multi family, small resorts? Call BIG Alan Galletto of Island Real Estate to get it SOLD 941-232-2216
CLEANING SERVICE
TOTAL HOME SERVICES CLEANING: Residential, Commercial, Rentals, VRBO. Professional and Reliable. Call 941-756-4570 or 941-565-3931
HOME IMPROVEMENTS
RENOVATION SPECALIST
ALL carpentry repairs, Wash Family Construction, locally owned and operated CBC 1258250 Call 941-725-0073.
KERN & GILDER CONSTRUCTION, INC New Homes & Remodel. Design/ Build. Since 1968. License # CBC 1261150. Call the Office. 941-778-1115
GET’R DONE DRYWALL, INC Specializing in Remodels & Repairs. Island Resident for 20+ years. Call Neil. Cell 941-962-1194
JSAN CORPORATION
Renovations Construction & Handyman Services 941-243-0995 Lic# CRC1332505 jsancorporation@gmail. com Flooring, Drywall, Painting, Repairs, Kitchen and Bathrooms, Trim & Doors Free Estimates. Credit Cards Accepted.
GORILLA DRYWALL REPAIR, LLC. 15+ years of experience. Free Estimates. Let’s solve your Drywall problems together. Call 941-286-0607.
BMF INTERIORS Home repairs and more, No job too small. Please call 786318-8585
A.R.E. Renovation’s WHOLESALE KITCHEN CABINETS DIRECT., Remodeling, Bathrooms. Trim Flooring and Decks Tile and more Free quote, references available. Lic. # CRC.1334176 941-4653045.
CCS DRYWALL REPAIRS
We are local. Family owned & operated since 1991. Free Estimates. Licensed/Insured/Bonded. License # SCC131149803 Call 941-713-6531.
HURRICANE DAMAGE?
I’m an Island resident. Pressure washing, tree work, fence repair, mailbox replacement. Also see ads under “Landscaping & painting. Bill Witaszek 941-307-9315
LANDSCAPING & LAWN CARE
R. GAROFALO’S Interlocking brick pavers, driveways, patios, pool decks. Free estimates. Licensed & Insured. Call Rafael 941-778-4823 or Veronik 941-526-7941
ISLAND RESIDENT. TREE/ BUSH Trimming, removal. Sweeping, blowing, and weeding. Weekly, bi-monthly or monthly schedule. Pressure washing. Call Bill Witaszek 941307-9315
SHORTDOG TREE & LAWN SERVICE Free Estimates. Remove trees; trim palms, yard work, hauling everything. Call 941-746-3373 or 941-730-2694
SHELL DELIVERED AND spread. Hauling all kinds of gravel, mulch, top soil with free estimates. Call Larry at 941795-7775, "shell phone" 941-720-0770
MOVING & STORAGE
MARTIN’S MOVING YOUR Island movers! Offering dependable, competitive rates. No hidden costs. 941-8095777.
PAINTING & WALLCOVERING
PAINT! PAINT! AND MORE 28 years of experienced interior/exterior custom painting. Pressure cleaning, drywall repairs and texture finishes. Many Island references. Please call Neil for free estimates. 941-812-0507
“WIZARD OF WALLS” Established 1980 Prompt quality service. Wallpaper installation/ removal. Mary Bell Winegarden 941-794-0455
DONALD PERKINS ABRACADABRA PAINTING LLC fully insured. 30 years experience. Many Island references. Call 941705-7096
PROFESSIONAL PAINTING SERVICES. Prompt & Reliable. Island Resident. Quality Workmanship. Interior/ Exterior. Minor repairs & carpentry. Free estimates. Bill Witaszek 941-307-9315
POOL SERVICES
FOUR SEASONS POOL SERVICE AND CHEMICAL SERVICES. Certified Pool Operator. 18 + Years Experience. Residential/commercial. Chemical Service Licensed & Insured. Call Dennis Clark 941-7375657
COLE'S TROPICAL POOL SERVICE Call Cole Bowers for all your pool maintenance needs! Affordable and Dependable!! 941-7131893
PRESSURE WASHING & WINDOWS
TOTAL HOME SERVICES CLEANING: Residential, Commercial, Construction, Vacation, VRBO Rentals . Also available Pressure Washing, Roof Cleaning, Paver Sealing and Windows. Call 941-5653931.
REAL ESTATE HOMES & CONDOS FOR SALE
{Have you been thinking of selling? We NEED properties to List for SALE!!! GULF FRONT, CANAL FRONT, BAY FRONT CONDOS or HOMES ASK for BIG Alan Galletto of Island Real Estate to get it SOLD 941-232-2216
LOOKING FOR A highly motivated real estate broker to buy or sell your next home? Darcie Duncan, Broker Duncan Real Estate a lifelong island resident bringing success to her customers for 30 years. Proven track record brings you results! 941-725-1589
BRADENTON CONDO FOR SALE end unit 55+ community. Pet friendly. Split 2BR/2BA. Walk in shower in Master, newer paint, laminate flooring, white travertine tile, new blinds, bonus room, W/D, central air with heat, carport, patio. Close to heated pool & community building. 8 miles from AMI. Available now, immediate possession. $179,900. Call 616648-1648 or 616-340-5669
RENTALS: ANNUAL, SEASONAL & VACATION
ON ISLAND CONDO Available immediately for up to one year! Ready to move in. Great Value. Beautiful Upgraded 2BR/2BA Incredible water View! Waterfront Patio, Pool, tennis, pickle, walk to beach. Private carport. Excellent Rental terms. Owner/ renter. Please Call or email for details. drchristines@ yahoo.com or 570-2390431
ANNUAL RENTAL BRADENTON BEACH 1BR/1BA condo. Block to beach, large pool, parking. $3000/mo. 6 month minimum. Call 941-447-3071
TRANSPORTATION
ANYTIME TRANSPORTATION to all Airports, Casino, etc. Tampa/St. Pete $85. Sarasota $40. Pets welcome. Very dependable. Reasonable rates. Contact Jeanne. 941-7795095
BUSINESS & SERVICE
FROM PAGE 4
HOLMES BEACH: Damage assessments completed
and rights of ways.
apply for and obtain the building permits needed for their recovery work. That work must be permitted and documented to ensure the city remains in compliance with FEMA National Flood Insurance Program requirements and maintains the city’s Community Rating System rating that provides property owners with discounted flood insurance rates.
“The building department, building official and city planner will continue to meet daily with homeowners and businesses to assist them in navigating the FEMA 50% rule, and to ensure they are aware and understand their options as they move forward and begin the recovery/ mitigation process,” Minor stated.
DEBRIS REMOVAL
Significant progress has been made and the debris removal efforts continue throughout the city. According to Kamiya, the city and its contracted debris haulers removed 19,786 cubic yards (784 truckloads) of vegetative debris, 58,423 cubic yards (2,384 loads) of construction and demolition debris and 27,265 cubic yards (1,152 loads) of sand as of Nov. 14. According to Kamiya, 105,475 cubic yards of debris have been removed from city roadways
“This is nearly 20 football fields 3 feet deep of debris,” he noted. The collected debris is first moved to the Florida Department of Environmental Protection-approved debris management site at City Field, where it’s crushed, loaded on to tractor trailers and hauled to the county landfill.
Sand is being hauled to the countyapproved debris management site in the Coquina Beach parking lot, where the county is sifting out the debris before the sand is returned to the Island beaches.
City personnel have been handclearing the small debris left behind by the removal trucks. They are also straightening and replacing traffic signs and signals, sweeping streets, picking up city parks, vacuuming stormwater pipes and working with local fishermen to remove canal debris.
“The final day for moving stormrelated debris to the roadside is Nov. 25. Anything moved out after that will need to meet the nonemergency, regular waste pickup requirements which can be found on the city’s website or by contacting code compliance,” Kamiya stated.
“This entire removal process is expected to be completed by the end of December.”
