Seymour, Short seek mayor’s job
The forum video is archived at the Anna Maria Island Sun's Facebook page.
JOE HENDRICKS
SUN CORRESPONDENT | jhendricks@amisun.com
ANNA MARIA – Brian Seymour and Mark Short both want to succeed Dan Murphy as Anna Maria’s next mayor, with the winner to be determined in the upcoming election. On Sept. 12, they participated in a candidate forum hosted by The Anna Maria Island Sun at city hall.
OPENING REMARKS
Seymour thanked Murphy for his 10-year tenure as mayor, including during the three years Seymour served as a commissioner. Seymour spent the first 38 years of his life in the Washinton D.C. area and 20 years working for Marriott hotels and resorts at many levels, from banquets to general manager.
“I decided after 20 years in the corporate world I was going to go find a new life. I couldn’t have been luckier to find this little city of Anna Maria. I own three businesses (City Pier Grill, Anna Maria General Store and Pine Avenue Bait and Tackle) and I’m eager to get back involved in city government and help the city continue to move forward,” Seymour said.
2024-25 budget passes first hearing
Holmes Beach commissioners passed the first reading of the city’s proposed 2024-25 fiscal year budget.
BY KRISTIN SWAIN SUN STAFF WRITER | kswain@amisun.com
Short and his wife, Pat, bought their Anna Maria home almost 13 years ago. They’ve been married 40 years and have three daughters and four granddaughters. In 2017, Short retired as a partner and CPA after 38 years with the Ernst & Young accounting and consultancy firm. Three months later, he joined The Center of Anna Maria
HOLMES BEACH – The city’s proposed 2024-25 budget is over halfway to the finish line to be in place for the Oct. 1 start of the fiscal year.
Commissioners held the first of two public hearings for the proposed budget during a Sept. 11 special meeting. Commissioner Terry Schaefer said the budget that commissioners approved during that meeting was the sixth version.
Currently, the budget proposes a total of $13,916,590 in operating revenues and expenses along with $11,317,006 in total carryover and reserves, including $7,157,500 in general unassigned reserves, the money that the city holds for emergency situations. The total budget,
including reserves, is $25,233,595, a difference of $111,639 over the approved 2023-24 fiscal year budget. Titsworth said that some of the reserves, particularly the stormwater reserves, are for projects planned for the current fiscal year that are carrying over to the upcoming fiscal year.
One of the items that changed between the July budget workshops and the current proposed budget was a line item of $307,000 in the public works department budget. The monies were previously set aside for the purchase of an algae harvester, along with training for employees and disposal fees. In the updated budget, Titsworth noted that the harvester would now only be purchased if it could be funded by a grant.
“It’s a placeholder,” Titsworth answered after commission candidate Carol Whitmore expressed concerns about the purchase. Whitmore said she believes the purchase is a duplication of services since
JASON SCHAFFER | SUN
The LaPensee Bowling Tournament costume contest winner is Just for Fun Rentals, portraying The Addams Family. From left, Lilly Mann (Wednesday), Mike Lineman (Lurch; with Thing, as himself), Olivia Mann (Morticia), Jake Mann (Gomez), Jonah Johnson (Pugsley) and Chris Mann (Fester). Page 17.
One parking lot meets city deadline; three closed
BY LESLIE LAKE SUN CORRESPONDENT | llake@amisun.com
BRADENTON BEACH – One of four paid parking lots owned by Shawn Kaleta was brought into compliance by the city’s Sept. 9 deadline for adherence to several requirements.
The applicants opted to close the remaining three lots at 102 Third St. N., 206 Bay Drive N. and 207 Church Ave.
Seven months after the city commission conditionally approved a one-year temporary use permit for paid parking at 101 Bridge St., all requirements there have been met, according to city Building Official Darin Cushing.
City commissioners voted unanimously on Sept. 5 to remove the sidewalk installation stipulation for the temporary use permits at Kaleta’s paid parking lots on Third Street and Bay Drive.
Sam Negrin, manager of Beach to Bay Investments Inc., a Kaleta-owned entity, told commissioners at the Sept. 5 meeting that Kaleta plans to build homes on the lots and said permits
will be submitted within a couple of months.
“The permit packages are being worked on at this point,” Negrin said.
“The applicants for the temporary use parking lot permits came to last Thursday's commission meeting to ask for a modification of their stipulations, essentially to not install
sidewalks on the Third Street and Bay Drive lots as was originally stipulated,” Cushing wrote in a Sept. 11 email to The Sun. “The commission agreed, and that stipulation was removed.”
But on Sept. 9, Cushing said the applicants emailed city staff informing them that they now intended
to terminate the operation of paid parking lots at those lots as well as the Church Avenue lot.
The parking lot stipulations from the Feb. 15 commission approval of the Bridge Street parking lot include no entrance or exit from Bridge Street, the installation of directional arrows, landscaping less than 3 feet high, a sidewalk north of Third Street South to hook into the corner sidewalk on Gulf Drive, trolley benches and a slab, and black and white signage, in addition to review and approval of the site plan by the building official. The one-year temporary use permit runs through Feb. 15, 2025.
In an Aug. 1 letter to Kaleta, Cushing wrote that he intended to barricade the lots on Aug. 9 with a permanent closure deadline of Sept. 6 if all the stipulations had not been met. The deadline was extended to Sept. 9 to allow for the repair of a leaking artesian well at 101 Bridge St.
The parking lots were barricaded by the city on Aug. 9, but reopened the following day after intervention by Kaleta’s Bradenton attorney, Louis Najmy.
The parking lot at 101 Bridge St. now complies with the city’s stipulations.
ISLAND NEWS
IN BRIEF
Bradenton Beach budget adopted
The Bradenton Beach City Commission and the Bradenton Beach Community Redevelopment Agency (CRA) adopted their 2024-25 fiscal year budgets on second and final reading on Sept. 12. Based on maintaining the current 2.3329 millage, the city’s general fund budget anticipates the city receiving $5.1 million in total revenues, with $4.81 million in projected total expenditures. The CRA budget anticipates the CRA receiving $1.01 million in total revenues, with $349,606 in anticipated total expenditures and a projected fiscal year-end net balance of $633,764 to carry forward into the 2025-26 CRA fiscal year to help fund future CRA projects.
Road resurfacing planned this week
Several roadways in Holmes Beach are scheduled to be resurfaced this week, according to city officials. The projects are on Tuesday, Sept. 17 on Gulf Drive at the 5200 curve; Wednesday, Sept. 18 at Sixth Avenue and 43rd Street; and Thursday, Sept. 19 at 70th and 71st Streets and 58th Street.
City retains Waste Pro
For property owners in Holmes Beach, Waste Pro will continue providing trash, recycling and yard waste collection services at least through 2030. City commissioners voted unanimously on Sept. 11 to renew the agreement with Waste Pro for an additional five years with an option to continue the contract when it expires on May 31, 2030. Commissioners said they were very happy with the service that Waste Pro provides to the city and with the responsiveness of the company to any issues and emergency situations.
Bradenton Beach Commission meets Thursday
The Bradenton Beach City Commission will meet on Thursday, Sept. 19 at noon. Under new business, the commission will discuss an air conditioning issue at the Tingley Memorial Library, the $3,410 installation of emergency lights on the city-owned street sweeper and citizen donations for the installation of two memorial benches. The commission will also discuss the city’s priorities for the Florida Legislature’s upcoming 2025 session. Under old business, the commission will receive a Scenic WAVES Wildlife Education Sign update. The commission will discuss a pay adjustment for Police Chief John Cosby, also serving as the temporary public works director, an estimated $29,407 expenditure for improvements to the floating finger docks near the Bradenton Beach Pier, a proposed $7,275 expenditure for the electrical supply to the pier cameras and a proposed $9,783 expenditure to repair the police department’s air conditioning system. The commission will also discuss the installation of a Jan Vosburgh Park sign at the small city-owned beachside park across the street from city hall.
Scan this code with your smartphone to go there.
Holmes Beach lowers millage rate
Commissioners agreed to lower the millage rate for the 2024-25 fiscal year, but they didn’t go as low as one commissioner hoped.
BY KRISTIN SWAIN SUN STAFF WRITER | kswain@amisun.com
HOLMES BEACH – Property owners are getting a tax break on their 2024-25 property tax bills.
Commissioners voted to reduce the proposed millage rate from 2.05 mills to 1.99 mills, a six-point reduction from what was proposed during a recent budget workshop. Despite the 2.5% reduction, the 1.99 millage rate is still 7.63% over the rollback rate of 1.8489 mills due to increases in property values.
Millage is the rate per $1,000 of assessed property value charged by the city in property taxes. The rollback rate is the millage rate that would give the city the same amount in taxes as the year before.
While commissioners reduced the millage rate below what was previously proposed, Commissioner Dan Diggins wasn’t happy with the decision.
Diggins said he wanted to reduce
the millage rate to at least the rollback rate, if not lower, and use either budget cuts or the city’s reserves to make up the difference. Mayor Judy Titsworth said that some of the city’s reserves are already being used to get the millage rate to the proposed 1.99 rate.
“I appreciate that we’ve gotten down to what we’re talking about now, 1.99, but I think it’s time we stopped growing government here a little bit,” Diggins said. “Just for one year, I’d like to see government stop growing for one year and get us back down, if not to the rollback rate, close to the rollback rate. Let’s face it, people are leaving this island, maybe not as often as they were before, but one of the reasons they’re leaving is taxes and insurance. We can’t do anything about insurance but we sure can do something about taxes.”
Diggins went on to say that he’s proud of the work that Titsworth and the city have done to rebuild flagging reserves, but he said it was time to give some money back to the taxpayers. He also said it would only take a 1.9% cut in each city department to reach the rollback rate this year.
“I don’t think that’s too much to ask for,” Diggins said.
Commissioner Terry Schaefer said he felt it was a noble cause to
reduce rates or hold them steady as much as possible, but he feels a further reduction in the budget for the coming fiscal year would result in a loss of services. Diggins said he doesn’t want to reduce services, but he feels there’s enough “fluff” to cut the $475,000 that would make the difference between using the rollback rate and using the 1.99 millage rate.
Titsworth said the reason for having so much in reserves is to have money for an emergency situation, such as a hurricane, where the city may get reimbursed for expenses by FEMA, but it requires money up front for items like debris removal. She said the budget had to be increased $50,000 to pay for street sweeping to keep city roads and bike lanes clear for users. She also said she took a look at the budget and made what cuts she felt could be made but doesn’t see where any additional funds could be cut.
“We’re not growing government, we’re doing the best we can to retain property values and keep people safe out here,” Titsworth said.
A second and final public hearing on the millage rate is scheduled on Tuesday, Sept. 26 at 5:01 p.m. at Holmes Beach City Hall, 5801 Marina Drive. Anyone wishing to speak must appear in person during the meeting.
BUDGET: Commissioners pass on first hearing
FROM PAGE 1
Manatee County owns two similar machines that she said the city could borrow if needed.
Titsworth said she doesn’t believe that the city or its residents should have to pay for the algae harvester or for the cost to maintain and utilize it because she believes that problems in other municipalities, such as sewage dumping from the city of Bradenton and the Piney Point wastewater spill in Manatee County, are contributing to Holmes Beach’s algae problems. Therefore, she said the purchase wouldn’t be made until grant funding for the entire cost could be secured, but because the algae harvester is important to the Clean Water Ad Hoc Committee, she left the placeholder in the budget for the purchase. As to the county-owned harvesters, Titsworth told Whitmore that the county algae harvesters don’t meet the needs of the city as they are designed primarily to work in boat ramps, not in canals, which is what the city needs.
Whitmore also said the historic cottage the city is moving to Grassy Point Preserve could be considered a museum, which would be a tourist attraction, and the Manatee County Tourist Development Council might be willing to fund that nearly $100,000 expenditure.
Other items that changed include the removal of a
planned new hire for the public works department, increases in insurance costs and a reduction in equipment costs in the Holmes Beach Police Department budget. Copies of the proposed budget are available online at www.holmesbeachfl.org and in the lobby at city hall during regular business hours.
The second and final public hearing and vote on the budget is scheduled on Tuesday, Sept. 26 at 5:01 p.m. at Holmes Beach City Hall.
CITY OF HOLMES BEACH | SUBMITTED
The city’s Clean Water Ad Hoc Committee wants Holmes Beach city leaders to purchase an algae harvester to help clean up algae blooms like this one.
City pursuing drainage study funds
The first step would be a study that identifies where drainage pumps and pipes are most needed.
BY JOE HENDRICKS SUN CORRESPONDENT | jhendricks@amisun.com
ANNA MARIA – City officials are pursuing a coastal resiliency grant to fund a study that identifies the best locations to install underground pumps and pipes to speed the removal of floodwaters from storms and high tides.
On Sept. 11, Mayor Dan Murphy and Anna Maria commissioners discussed the Florida Department of Environmental Protection (FDEP) grant application. Murphy did not disclose the amount of the grant request or the anticipated study costs. He said that flooding is a major concern shared by Anna Maria property owners and noted that heavy rains
that fall in short timespans are now more common.
“When you get that much saturation, there’s not much you can do,” he said.
He said short of building a dike around the Island, there’s nothing that will stop Tampa Bay waters from rising over the seawalls and sand dunes that help protect the city.
“The object is to get rid of the water as quickly as possible once the tide goes down,” Murphy said.
Anna Maria’s stormwater and drainage system relies primarily on stone-covered, granite-filled underground vertical infiltration trenches that absorb and help transport floodwaters to the designated outfalls.
“Vertical filtration has exhausted itself. It works in some locations and it does not work in other locations. Now it’s down to pipes and pumps,” Murphy said.
Murphy mentioned several flood-prone locations - the
JOE HENDRICKS | SUN
Several areas in Anna Maria, including North Shore Drive, are prone to flooding during hurricanes, tropical storms and heavy rains.
entrance to the city, Archer Way, Allamanda Road, the Bayfront Park area, North Bay Boulevard, South Bay Boulevard, the City Pier area, Magnolia Avenue and the area behind Ginny’s and Jane E’s Café. He said a different approach is needed in those areas.
Murphy said the study won’t be cheap, but he’s optimistic the city will receive the state funds in the October timeframe. Using
two engineering firms, Murphy estimates the city could have the study and the engineered pump and pipe installation plans completed in approximately 14 months, with the entire project taking approximately two years to complete.
He noted the maintenance of pumps and pipes located in a saltwater environment will be ongoing and expensive.
“Pumping is expensive, especially when it’s buried
underground,” Murphy said.
He noted additional funds might be obtained from FEMA and the Southwest Florida Water Management District to help offset the maintenance costs.
After 10 years in office, Murphy’s final term as mayor expires in November. He said the next mayor will have to spearhead the project and he advised the commission to maintain close relationships with the state officials and state legislators who can provide the needed funds.
“This is a very expensive proposition,” he said. “You need to be prepared to pony up and get the money to finish this if you want to solve this problem. The answer is getting the water out as quickly as possible and that’s what pumps and pipes will do.”
Commissioner Mark Short noted the study might also identify other drainage options to consider.
OPINION
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LETTERS TO THE EDITOR
Thanks for forums
We would like to extend a special thank you to all Anna Maria Island Sun staff involved in conducting the Island forums for candidates in this 2024 election. We have seen at the county level
how important the press is in elections, and we feel that the same is true at the city level as well. Thank you also for keeping us informed year-round. We look forward to your publication every week.
Dick and Margie Motzer Holmes Beach
Drop us a line
Got an opinion, a complaint or a compliment? Is there something you need to get off your chest? Send us a letter to the editor and have your say. There are a couple of ways to do it. The easiest and most direct is to email The Sun at news@amisun.com. Remember to put Letter to the Editor in the subject field. Or you can snail-mail
Correction
Former Anna Maria Public Works Department employee Nick Huling is white/Caucasian. A story in last week’s Sun incorrectly stated otherwise.
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.
WEDNESDAY, SEPT. 18
Weekly oyster drilling, Robinson Preserve Valentine House, 1704 99th St. N.W., Bradenton, 8 a.m. to noon
Line dancing for beginners, Island Branch Library, 5701 Marina Drive, Holmes Beach, 10 a.m.
Advanced line dancing, Island Branch Library, 5701 Marina Drive, Holmes Beach, 11 a.m.
Tortoise Talk, Robinson Preserve Mosaic Nest, 840 99th St. N.W., Bradenton, 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, 2-4 p.m.
THURSDAY, SEPT. 19
Island Morning Book Club, Island Branch Library, 5701 Marina Drive, Holmes Beach, 10:15 a.m.
Sunshine Stitchers Knit and Crochet, Island Branch Library, 5701 Marina Drive, Holmes Beach, 1 p.m.
Family Movie Night: “Peter Rabbit,” Island Branch Library, 5701 Marina Drive, Holmes Beach, 5 p.m.
FRIDAY, SEPT. 20
Forty Carrots infant and toddler playtime, Island Branch Library, 5701 Marina Drive, Holmes Beach, 10 a.m.
Mah-jongg for experienced players, Island Branch Library, 5701 Marina Drive, Holmes Beach, 11:30 a.m.
Art Talk: Claude Monet and Impressionism, Island Branch Library, 5701
Marina Drive, Holmes Beach, 2 p.m.
Wildlife Spotlight: Shorebirds, Coquina Beach, 2650 Gulf Drive S., Bradenton Beach, 6:30 p.m.
SATURDAY, SEPT. 21
Mornings at the NEST, Robinson Preserve Mosaic Nest, 840 99th St. N.W., Bradenton, 9 a.m. to noon
Author Talk with Kelly Stilwell, Island Branch Library, 5701 Marina Drive, Holmes Beach, 10 a.m.
MONDAY, SEPT. 23
Gentle yoga, Island Branch Library, 5701
Marina Drive, Holmes Beach, 10 a.m.
Photography for young adults, Island Branch Library, 5701 Marina Drive, Holmes Beach, 5 p.m.
TUESDAY, SEPT. 24
Tram tour, Robinson Preserve, 1704 99th St. N.W., Bradenton, 10 a.m. and 10:30 a.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, SEPT. 25
Weekly oyster drilling, Robinson Preserve Valentine House, 1704 99th
St. N.W., Bradenton, 8 a.m. to noon
Line dancing for beginners, Island Branch Library, 5701 Marina Drive, Holmes Beach, 10 a.m.
Tortoise Talk, Robinson Preserve Mosaic Nest, 840 99th St. N.W., Bradenton, 10 a.m.
Advanced line dancing, Island Branch Library, 5701 Marina Drive, Holmes Beach, 11 a.m.
Mah-jongg for beginners, Island Branch Library, 5701 Marina Drive, Holmes Beach, 1 p.m.
One-on-one tech help, Island Branch Library, 5701 Marina Drive, Holmes Beach, 2-4 p.m.
THURSDAY, SEPT. 26
Seashell shore walk, Coquina Beach, 2650 Gulf Drive S., Bradenton Beach, 9 a.m. Meet under the Longboat Key Bridge.
Seaside Quilters, Island Branch Library, 5701 Marina Drive, Holmes Beach, 10 a.m.
Green Explorers: Nature’s Symphony, Perico Preserve, 11700 Manatee Ave. W., 10 a.m.
AMI Chamber Business Card
Exchange, NY Foot and Body Massage Spa, 6100 Manatee Ave. W., Bradenton, 5 p.m., $5 for members or $10 for prospective members
FRIDAY, SEPT. 27
Forty Carrots toddler playtime, Island Branch Library, 5701 Marina Drive, Holmes Beach, 10 a.m.
Mah-jongg for experienced players, Island Branch Library, 5701 Marina Drive, Holmes Beach, 11:30 a.m.
Rock garden rock painting, Island Branch Library, 5701 Marina Drive, Holmes Beach, 2 p.m.
SATURDAY, SEPT. 28
Mornings at the NEST, Robinson Preserve Mosaic Nest, 840 99th St. N.W., Bradenton, 9 a.m. to noon
Art with Enith, Island Branch Library, 5701 Marina Drive, Holmes Beach, 10 a.m.
Tram Tour, Robinson Preserve, 1704 99th St. N.W., Bradenton, 1:30 p.m. and 3 p.m.
MONDAY, SEPT. 30
Gentle yoga, Island Branch Library, 5701 Marina Drive, Holmes Beach, 10 a.m.
TUESDAY, OCT. 1
Family story time, Island Branch Library, 5701 Marina Drive, Holmes Beach, 10 a.m.
ANNA MARIA
10005 GULF DRIVE
FOR INFORMATION, CALL 941-708-6130
Please visit www.cityofannamaria. com or contact city hall for more information.
Sept. 19, 9 a.m. – Planning and Zoning Board meeting
Sept. 26, 6 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.
Sept. 18, 1 p.m. – Scenic WAVES meeting
Sept. 19, 6 p.m. – City Commission meeting
HOLMES BEACH
5801 MARINA DRIVE FOR INFORMATION, CALL 941-708-5800
Please visit www.holmesbeachfl. org or contact city hall for more information.
Sept. 18, 10 a.m. – Code Compliance special magistrate hearing
Sept. 24, 5 p.m. – City Commission final budget meeting
Sept. 24, 5 p.m. – City Commission meeting with work session following budget meeting
Pavers selected for Pine Avenue sidewalks
The first phase of brick paver sidewalks will be installed between Gulf Drive and North Shore Drive.
BY JOE HENDRICKS SUN CORRESPONDENT | jhendricks@amisun.com
ANNA MARIA – City commissioners have selected the specific type of pervious brick pavers to be used to install new sidewalks along Pine Avenue. The first phase of the new brick paver sidewalks will be installed between Gulf Drive and North Shore Drive, where no concrete sidewalks currently exist. The initial block-by-block sidewalk installation project will progress in four separate phases toward the end of Pine Avenue near the city pier. The existing concrete sidewalks along Pine Avenue are expected to be replaced during later phases of the Reimagining Pine Avenue safety improvement project.
Anna Maria commissioners selected the granite-colored paver, right.
On Sept. 11, Mayor Dan Murphy told city commissioners that the Florida Department of Transportation (FDOT) approved the city’s proposed $233,000 contract with the Eason Builders Group for the phase one sidewalk installation. Murphy said a preconstruction meeting with Eason Builders and FDOT was scheduled for Monday, Sept. 16.
With the contract approved, Murphy said the commission needed to select the specific pavers to be used. General Manager Dean Jones presented commissioners with two pavers that featured slightly different shades of gray - granite or glacier. Jones said there’s no price difference between the two gray-hued pavers that are among the most widely used and most read-
City to update seawall regulations
HOLMES BEACH – City leaders are considering updating local seawall regulations.
City Engineer Chad Minor said that the city’s existing regulations stem from a 1978 Manatee County document, one that he’s not sure can be located. To correct the issue, he recently presented commissioners with a draft ordinance outlining permitting processes for the construction of seawalls. While he said the proposed regulations wouldn’t be anything new for contractors, it would shore up the city’s code and regulations.
ily available in the industry. Jones said using a different colored paver would result in an 8- to 10-week delay. Murphy noted the granite-colored paver is slightly lighter than the glacier-colored paver and the lighter-colored paver would absorb and retain less heat. The commission unanimously supported Murphy’s recommendation to use the lighter granite-colored pavers.
One addition to the permitting process, he said, would be for contractors to identify any existing mangroves on the property where a seawall is to be repaired or constructed. The proposed regulations also would define living shorelines as an alternative to a seawall to leave that option open to property owners. Commissioners agreed to consider the proposed regulations on first reading at a future commission meeting.
JOE HENDRICKS | SUN
Stormwater improvements coming to Seaside Gardens
BY KRISTIN SWAIN SUN STAFF WRITER | kswain@amisun.com
HOLMES BEACH – If there’s one place in the city that residents and elected officials can agree needs help with drainage, it’s the Seaside Gardens neighborhood, a collection of low-lying homes, duplexes and multi-family buildings along canals in the center of Holmes Beach. Now, this neighborhood is getting some stormwater and drainage improvements in an effort to reduce flooding.
During a Sept. 11 meeting, commissioners unanimously approved a motion authorizing Mayor Judy Titsworth to enter into an agreement with Newson Construction and Consulting
LLC for an amount not to exceed $139,834 for the project.
According to the bid materials, the contractor will dig up and replace 190 linear feet of drainage pipe throughout the Seaside Gardens community.
City Engineer Sage Kamiya said that drainage and flooding have been a topic of discussion among residents and city staff. The current drainage outfall for the neighborhood is located at the Holmes Beach boat ramp, which Kamiya said is at such an angle that it cannot hold a valve to reduce the influx of water into the existing drainage system during high tide events. To remedy the situation, he said this project will relocate the outfall to
a higher elevation where it can support a tide valve and the pipe underneath the boat ramp will be abandoned. The road leading to the boat ramp and the concrete for the ramp itself will also be repaired and replaced as a part of the project once the new pipe is installed. The new outfall will go through the seawall at the boat ramp instead of underneath the boat ramp.
Once completed, Kamiya said the drainage improvements will offer residents about a 4.5-inch reduction in flooding during 24-hour storms - a hard rainfall at high tide.
Construction is anticipated to begin in the coming weeks, after the start of the fiscal year.
NYFD bagpiper performs at sunset
On Sept. 10, retired New York Fire Department firefighter Marty Gray warmed up for his 9/11 tribute bagpipe performance by taking a sunset stroll in front the AMI Moose Lodge in Bradenton Beach. Gray, now a Bradenton resident, frequently brings his bagpipes to the beach for sunset performances.
JOE HENDRICKS | SUN
Moose supports Anna Maria Elementary
On Sept. 10, AMI Moose Lodge President Steve Boniberger presented Anna Maria Elementary STEM (sci ence, technology, engineering and math) teacher Pidge Barreda with a check for $1,000. Barreda represented the elementary school at the Moose Lodge in Bradenton Beach because Principal Katie Fradley was unavail able. “This donation is being made as part of our commitment to the ‘Heart of the Community,’ which the Moose organization encourages us to do. We hope the proceeds from this check are used to help the children of Anna Maria Elementary in a way that is fitting,” Boniberger said. “Thank you very much on behalf of Anna Maria Elementary school,” Barreda said. “The kids will enjoy everything the Moose Lodge’s generosity provides.” The money will be used for the school’s Guy Harvey Academy for Arts
JOE HENDRICKS | SUN AMI Moose Lodge president Steve Boniberger presented a check to AME STEM teacher Pidge Barreda.
& Science program that focuses on marine biology. “The kids are learning so many amazing things,” Barreda said of the program.
Book an
Sea turtle season slowing to a crawl
Upcoming events will support Anna Maria Island Turtle Watch and Shorebird Monitoring.
BY LESLIE LAKE SUN CORRESPONDENT | llake@amisun.com
ANNA MARIA ISLAND – As the sea turtle nesting season slows down, Anna Maria Island Turtle Watch and Shorebird Monitoring volunteers continue excavating hatched nests on local beaches.
High surf caused by Hurricane Francine in the western Gulf of Mexico inundated several nests with saltwater, which will likely impact their success, but about half the remaining nests are still high and dry.
Several upcoming events will support the non-profit group’s mission of protecting sea turtles.
Painting with a Purpose will raise funds on Sunday, Sept. 22 from 3-5 p.m. at Slicker's Eatery, 12012 Cortez Road W. The cost is $75 per person and includes painting with a local artist, two glasses of wine and flatbread appetizers. No painting experience is necessary. Seating is limited. Sign up at https://paintingwithatwist.com/ studio/bradenton or call 941-795-7928.
The Suzi L. Fox Adopt a Nest Program is open for 2025 adoptions. Each nest adoption includes a certificate of adoption, notification of the plaque placement and the location of your nest. The plaque is mailed to you after the nest has hatched. Next year there are new options. With the
Special Request Adopt a Nest, Turtle Watch will offer the ability to choose the general location of the nest and date that the plaque will be posted on the beach, as well as offering a photo of the plaque when placed and notification after the nest has hatched.
“We thank the 259 adoptees that participated in our Suzi L. Fox Adopt a Nest program in 2024. The proceeds from these nest adoptions go towards all the outreach programs and materi als we produce to educate visitors and locals about sea turtles and how they can conserve and protect their island habitat,” according to a release from Turtle Watch.
For more information, visit https:// islandturtlewatch.com/get-involved/ adopt-a-nest/ Turtle Watch Wednesday will be held on Wednesday, Oct. 23 from 4-6 p.m. at Hurricane Hanks, 5346 Gulf Drive in Holmes Beach. The free event features live and silent auctions and live music. VIP tickets are available for $80 per person and include reserved seating, a swag bag and event T-shirt. Call Barbara for reservations at 404-275-9422.
A photo calendar - Anna Maria Life: Through the Lens of Angie Blunt 2025 – is available at the following Island locations: Lazy Turtle, Anna Maria Island Historical Society, Anna Maria Life Vacation Rentals, Ginny’s & Jane E’s, The Anna Maria Island Chamber of Commerce and Sea-renity Beach Spa & Bou-tiki, as well as online at https://annamarialifeshop.com.
NESTING NEWS
Turtle nests laid: 685
(Previous record: 543 in 2019) False crawls: 835
(Previous record: 831 in 2010)
Nests hatched: 292
(Record: 453 in 2022)
Hatchlings produced: 20,748
(Record: 35,850 in 2022)
Hatchling disorientations: 55
Adult disorientations: 36
Nests remaining on beach: 44
Source: Anna Maria Island Turtle Watch and Shorebird Monitoring
Where’s Henrietta?
Henrietta, a female loggerhead sea turtle, has pulled ahead from last place to ninth place in a field of 10 in the Sea Turtle Conservancy’s Tour de Turtles Race, which began on Aug. 1. She has traveled 125 miles since her release on June 24 from Coquina Beach after nesting and being tagged with a satellite transmitter. Henrietta is swimming in the race to draw attention to the cause of light pollution and how lighting near shore can negatively impact nesting turtles and their hatchlings. Her participation in the 2024 Tour de Turtles is sponsored by Hurricane Hanks and Anna Maria Island Turtle Watch and Shorebird Monitoring. Visit The Sun’s Facebook page for weekly updates in “Where’s Henrietta?” and visit amisun.com for weekly updates on turtle nesting activity in “Nesting News.”
TURTLE WATCH | SUBMITTED
Turtle Watch volunteers Nancy and Bob Brown excavate one of the remaining hatched sea turtle nests on the beach as turtle season winds down.
Fence, wall regulations revised
Fences located at street intersections must be 50% transparent if more than 3 feet tall.
BY JOE HENDRICKS SUN CORRESPONDENT | jhendricks@amisun.com
ANNA MARIA – The city commission revised the fence and wall regulations contained in section 114.423 of the city’s code of ordinances on Sept. 11.
The commission unanimously adopted Ordinance 24-934 on second and final reading, which contained several recommenda tions made by Planning and Zoning Board members who conducted an extensive review of the city’s fence, wall and visibility triangle regulations.
Located in a visibility triangle, this fence is partially transparent and stands less than 6 feet tall, in compliance with city ordinances.
More bridge inspections scheduled
MANATEE COUNTY – Inspections for the Anna Maria Island Bridge are being scheduled after concrete fell out of one section, causing a hole that needed immediate repairs last month.
The bridge, which connects Anna Maria Island and Perico Island along Manatee Avenue, is managed by the Florida Department of Transportation (FDOT). In the wake of the emergency repairs, FDOT representatives have committed to completing weekly and monthly safety inspections of the bridge.
The bridge was built in 1957 and has been slated for replacement for several years. A design for a new 65-foot, high-span bridge to replace the aging drawbridge was completed in 2018. Construction is planned in 2028, however, the project remains unfunded. Manatee County leaders say that the water main, which fell off the underside of the bridge in July 2023, will remain in place on the south sidewalk of the bridge until the replacement bridge is built.
The new ordinance includes language that revises city regulations pertaining to fences being placed in visibility triangles: “A fence may be permitted within a visibility triangle provided that any portion of the fence between 3 feet in height and the maximum height permitted by this section (6 feet) shall be 50% transparent at a minimum.”
City code now includes new language that addresses swinging and moving fences and gates and says, “Any moveable portion of a fence or wall, such as a gate, shall not swing outside of the property
line.”The city code already said, “No fence or poles supporting a fence shall be erected outside the property line.”
Commissioner Jon Crane asked how the ordinance impacts a previously permitted gate that currently swings outside the property line.
In response, City Attorney Becky Vose said, “It would make it a nonconforming fence which they can keep until they change the fence. It’s not like we’re going to have to go out and enforce this and require people to make changes. It’s when someone builds a new fence, this is how it’s going to be done.”
Regarding visibility triangles at street intersections, another existing portion of city code already says, “On a corner lot, there shall be no parking or loading spaces, structure or planting – including trees, but not to include tree trunks where the tree branches are higher than 7 feet above the surrounding grade – which materially obstructs the vision of vehicular traffic within 20 feet of the two intersecting street right-of-way lines measured from the intersecting corner of the rights-of-way involved.”
It’s library card sign-up month
The Manatee County Public Library System is celebrating National Library Card Sign-Up Month. A library card is more than just a key to borrow books, it is the gateway to a wealth of digital resources, educational tools and community programs. With a Manatee County library card, guests can access ebooks, audiobooks, online courses, language learning platforms and more, all at no cost. Everyone who signs up for a library card during September will receive exclusive, branded library swag while supplies last. Visit any Manatee County Library branch to sign up, including the Island Branch Library. For more information, call 941-748-5555.
JOE HENDRICKS | SUN
Island Players kick off 76th season
The Island Players’ 76th season will kick off on Sept. 19 with Crimes of the Heart, directed by Mike Lusk.
BY JASON SCHAFFER SUN CORRESPONDENT | jschaffer@amisun.com
ANNA MARIA - The Island Players, Manatee County’s oldest community theater, will launch its 76th season on Thursday, Sept. 19 with Beth Henley’s Crimes of the Heart, directed by Players’ veteran director, Mike Lusk.
The play, which won the 1981 Pulitzer Prize, as well as the New York Drama Critics Circle Award for Best American Play, will garner every emotion from audience members as they are transported to a small Mississippi town to find three sisters who have gathered to await the news of their grandfather, who is living out his final hours at the local hospital. Each of the sisters is dealing with their own life problems, but despite the troubles, there are plenty of laughs as they work to escape the past.
Lusk has directed plays for the Island Players for more than 10
years, most recently, last season’s debut of the hilarious “Farce of Nature,” which left audiences in stitches. Lusk is known for bringing out the best in his cast and crew, while also putting his signature mark on everything he does. If this play follows past trends, this director shouldn’t disappoint.
“You’ll get everything you expect from an Island Players production,” Lusk said. “You’ll get happiness, you’ll get some thoughtfulness and have a good evening of entertainment. This play in particular should make you feel glad to be alive.”
Last season, the Island Players sold out most shows and broke attendance records. To avoid missing out, get tickets as soon as possible. Crimes of the Heart runs from Sept. 19-29. Tickets are available at www.theislandplayers.org, at the box office beginning one hour prior to the show or by calling the box office at 941-778-5755. The Island Playhouse is located at 10009 Gulf Drive, Anna Maria, on the corner of Gulf Drive and Pine Avenue.
Bayfest seeks vendors, sponsors
Anna Maria Island’s longest-running festival, Bayfest, will fill Pine Avenue in Anna Maria on Saturday, Oct. 19 from 10 a.m. to 9 p.m. Featuring food, drinks, art and craft vendors, live music and more, the free event is family friendly. Sponsorship prices and availability and
vendor rules and applications are available at www.amichamber.org, or call Terri Kinder at 941-778-1541 for more information. A portion of the money raised from Bayfest will benefit the Anna Maria Island Chamber of Commerce College Scholarship Fund.
Pitch in at cleanup for cash prizes
Suncoast Aqua Ventures is hosting the Eighth Annual Suncoast Reef and Beach Cleanup, which offers a unique opportunity to win money and prizes while having a positive effect on the coastal environment.
Mark your calendar for Sept. 28-29 to participate in the event at Terra Ceia Sea Breeze Park.
The Reef and Beach Cleanup is not your typical beach cleanup. This unique event turns trash collection into a competitive sport. Cash prizes
will be awarded in several categories, including most recyclables, most tires, most anchors and most shoes. Those with access to a boat can even clean up underwater, ensuring our reefs are as pristine as our beaches. Whether you’re a land lover or a certified SCUBA diver, there’s a way for everyone to participate.
Since its inception in 2016, Suncoast Aqua Ventures has mobilized over 2,200 volunteers who have collectively removed an amazing 182,000 pounds of trash from our coastlines and underwater environments. What began as a small local effort has blossomed into a movement that has brought together community members, environmentalists and outdoor enthusiasts from all walks of life.
Cheryl Huntsinger, president of Suncoast Aqua Ventures, reflected on the origins of the event, saying, “We started this organization after witnessing the sheer amount of human debris littering our coastlines and underwater habitats. We knew something had to be
done, and what better way to tackle the problem than by bringing people together in a fun, competitive environment?
It’s incredible to see how much we’ve accomplished in just a few short years.”
The Eighth Annual Reef and Beach Cleanup is more than
just a day of trash collectionit's a celebration of community, conservation and the power of collective action. Whether you're here for the competition or to enjoy a day by the water, your participation helps protect our coastal environment for future generations.
Join the group in making a difference while having a blast. Who can collect the most trash and walk away with not just cash, but the satisfaction of knowing they’ve helped keep our shores and reefs clean?
Register at https://suncoastaquaventures.com/event/8thannual-reef-beach-cleanup/ For more information, visit www.suncoastaquaventures.com or email Cheryl Huntsinger at suncoastaquaventures@gmail. com.
RUSTY CHINNIS
Community supports LaPensee Tournament
JASON SCHAFFER | SUN
Clockwise above, the best bowling award in the 2024 Greg LaPensee Bowling Tournament goes to the AMI Dolphin Tours team. Other winners included Cale Rudacille (best kid bowler), Jensen Childress (best female bowler), Joey Newell (best male bowler) and Dina Franklin (gutter champ). From left, the Grace Irwin Memorial Fund was represented by Scott Biehman, Monique Biehman, Janae Rudacille and Jillian Ptak. The ServPro team won third place in the costume contest. AMI Road Workers won second place in the costume contest.
JASON SCHAFFER | SUN
MAYOR: Seymour, Short seek mayoral job
FROM PAGE 1
Island’s finance committee. In 2019, he was appointed to the city’s Charter Review Committee and then to the city’s Planning and Zoning Board.
“I served on that (the planning board) for several months until I was appointed to the city commission. I actually replaced you, Brian, when you resigned,” Short said, noting he’s been a commissioner for five years and commission chair and vice-mayor for two years.
When asked why he wants to serve as mayor, Short said, “I’ve been actively involved in the city and I’m vested in the city. I know it’s a thankless job and it is certainly not for the money. The city has come a long way. We have a long way to go and some things the city needs to focus on are things I can help with,” Short said. “It’s definitely not for the $19,000 and change,” Seymour said of the mayor’s salary. “When I was a com-
missioner, it was $4,800 a year. It’s about having a place in this city and wanting to help the city continue to grow. I’m a good leader. I have good relationships with city staff and the different departments within the city.”
The candidates agree the mayor’s job is a full-time job.
“The residents have come to expect the mayor to be here,” Short said. “I am viewing this as a full-time job. If I’m elected mayor, you’ll see me here.”
“It’s about balance,” Seymour said. “I would be in and out of city hall every day. I have good leadership at my two bigger businesses and the ability to extract myself from those two businesses and implement myself here at city hall.”
THE ISSUES
A recent independent investigation of the city workplace cited a “pervasive lack of trust and collegiality amongst co-workers.”
Short said he was required to participate in annual
workplace training during his career and he’d require the same of city staff. He’d also consider outsourcing the city’s human resource needs to outside specialists so city employees can express their concerns to unbiased, noncity personnel.
“With regards to managing the staff, it’s the mayor’s job and you have to be hands-on with everybody,” Short said.
“I’ve had a lot of dealings with staff issues and different
personalities that maybe don’t work well together,” Seymour said. “It comes down to consistent training. There needs to be accountability and a review of the entire city staff, from the top down, to make sure people are in the right positions, given the tools they need and have proper working relationships.”
Seymour and Short disagree on hiring a full-time city administrator or city manager to assist the mayor.
“I’m very much in favor
of a city administrator-type position to help oversee the city,” Seymour said, noting he’d like the administrator to have human resources experience. “It has become such a large city with so many departments and so many employees. I really believe that would be beneficial.”
“I do not believe the city needs a city manager or a city administrator,” Short countered. “If you read the city charter, that is the job of the mayor. You’re electing someone to do exactly what a city administrator or manager would do.”
Both candidates adamantly oppose the consolidation of the three Island cities or annexing them into Manatee County or Bradenton. Both candidates strongly support the commission’s recent decision to reduce the property tax millage rate from 2.05 to 1.65 mills and maintaining or lowering that rate in the future.
Short and Seymour agree
JOE HENDRICKS | SUN
Mark Short, left, and Brian Seymour are vying for the Anna Maria mayor’s job.
MAYOR: Seymour, Short seek job
FROM PAGE 18
that improving the city’s drainage system to reduce flooding is a top priority and they support Murphy’ pursuit of a resiliency grant to fund a study for the future installation of drainage pumps and pipes.
Both candidates agree the city should use Facebook and other social media platforms to communicate more immediately with residents and business owners, especially regarding weather events and other emergencies.
The candidates agree the $1.3 million budgeted for law enforcement services by the Manatee County Sheriff’s Office is a wise and prudent expenditure. They both believe the code enforcement department should focus on a wider range of enforcement issues beyond writing parking tickets.
Both candidates would continue Murphy’s use of a lobbyist and the Home Rule Florida website to help preserve Anna Maria’s home rule rights and the city’s ability to regulate
vacation rentals.
Seymour and Short support the Reimagining Pine Avenue project and oppose eliminating the existing parallel parking spaces along Pine Avenue. They both oppose making Pine Avenue a one-way street and Seymour opposes making Spring or Magnolia a one-way street. Short said he’d at least look at making Spring or Magnolia a one-way street to create space for a bike path.
Seymour and his business partners operate the City Pier Grill in space leased from the city. The initial five-year pier lease expires on Dec. 31, 2025, and Seymour’s group has the option to renew the lease for five more years.
When asked if this could create a potential conflict of interest, Short noted the mayor’s duties include negotiating the city contracts that require the city commission’s final approval.
“I would be concerned if that contract came up and it was effectively the mayor negotiating with himself,” Short said.
I’m very much in favor of a city administrator-type position to help oversee the city.”
Brian Seymour, mayoral candidate
I do not believe the city needs a city manager or a city administrator.”
Mark Short, mayoral candidate
“I have partners in the business,” Seymour said. “That negotiation would need to be pushed out of my hands to the vice-mayor and maybe to the city attorney and then let the city commission decide. I would not be involved with those negotiations.”
Regarding the quality of the natural waters surrounding the city, Seymour said, “It’s a shame what’s happening around us. Yes, we’ve had some significant rainfalls but for Bradenton to still be discharging (sewage) is just uncalled for. I’m tired of seeing Bayfront Park end up on the no-swim advisory. I’m not going to throw a fellow business under the bus at
this moment, but there’s one that’s constantly putting sewage into the Bayfront Park area. It’s not acceptable and it needs to be fixed.”
“Water quality starts with us,” Short said. “We need to make sure our infrastructure can handle these 4-, 5-, 6-inch rains we get with minimal impact on the environment. I think we, the Island, need to collectively have our voice heard in Bradenton, in Manatee County, at the DEP and in Tallahassee about our concerns about what’s happening on the mainland. At the end of the day, that water ends up out here.”
SEE MAYOR, PAGE 22
REAL ESTATE
My mother had a favorite expression regarding fashion. “You need to shop where you won’t see yourself coming and going,” meaning, seek out stores with a unique selection of goods. The same can be said for remodels, where, these days, it seems that every kitchen is white, every bathroom has bowl sinks, and every wall is some tone of grey. I happen to like those combinations, and they are neutral and very good for resale but for individuals who want a little spice in their remodels, there are other venues. Eco-friendly techniques and materials are becoming more commonplace in renovations projects and new construction. According to the National Association of Home Builders, many buyers consider green home features to be either essential or desirable. This includes Energy Star-rated windows, triple pane insulating windows, sustainably harvested lumber and components made of recycled materials. These products are improving indoor
Vintage, or just old? Castles in the Sand
LOUISE BOLGER
air quality and reduces everyone’s carbon footprint in a continued effort to reduce global warming. However, eco-friendly remodels do not lower renovation costs. Prices have come down, but homeowners should still expect to pay a premium for green materials. This could be a good return on investment down the road because sustainable materials are often more durable, require less maintenance and are in demand.
Taking it a step further, and keeping my mother’s theory in mind, searching out reusable and sustainable products to do your renovation can save a considerable amount of money. This can also apply if you donate your old cabinets, appliances
and sinks, taking the tax write off. Proponents of repurposed products say using reclaimed products is taking something that would otherwise be waste and giving it new life. These days, when everyone is obsessed with everything new, finding recycled elements for your remodel is not only easy but, in many cases, surprising lightly used.
A quick internet search of architectural salvage stores will reveal several right in our backyard. And don’t let the word salvage discourage you; the salvaged or vintage items range from 1920s file boxes to trendy slab dining tables with wooden slabs recycled from their previous life. There are enormous supplies of small items like former moldings and vintage fans that haven’t seen the light of day in decades and just waiting to add a little interest to your remodeled kitchen.
I had so much fun browsing the websites of these salvage stores I almost forgot what I was actually looking for. My absolute favorite was an Electronic
Diagnosis Engine Tester from some era way before computer chips were invented, and the magic vibrating chair looking like it belonged in San Quentin. If you’re lucky enough to find fixtures, cabinets and decorative tiles for your renovation, not only will you save a ton of money, but likely get a better-quality product.
I found three stores specializing in architectural salvage in two minutes: Sarasota Architectural Salvage, Décor Direct Wholesale Warehouse, both in Sarasota, and Schiller’s Architectural Design Salvage in Tampa. These types of salvage stores have an ongoing incoming and outgoing supply of items, so if you’re looking for something specific that is not currently available, stay in touch with the owners and tell them what you need. We all should do our best to recycle and purchase eco-friendly products. Most of us are somewhere between buying almost nothing to complete a renovation and hiring the most expensive contractor we can find. Even recycling your own cabinets for use somewhere else in your home helps. And remember, when you go salvage, you’ll never see your kitchen coming and going.
BEACH BEAT
HOLMES BEACH
9/4, 10:45 p.m., theft, 5337 Gulf Drive. An officer was dispatched to the Freckled Fin bar after the manager advised that a female customer had left without paying her $51.22 bill. The manager told the officer the female subject ordered several
drinks and food at the bar, then became belligerent towards the staff and left the bar without paying her tab. The manager followed her to the exit, telling her she needed to pay her bill, but she ignored him and walked to her vehicle, at which time he took a picture of her license plate information. After running the plate number, the officer recognized the driver from previous interactions. She was stopped by officers as she pulled into her Holmes Beach residence. The subject resisted of-
ficers when they attempted to remove her from the vehicle, and several pills were found, along with a THC vape pen. She was arrested for theft, DUI, possession of a controlled substance without a prescription, obstruction without violence, resisting arrest with violence and battery on an officer.
9/4, 5:30 p.m., grand theft, 5360 Gulf Drive. The officer was dispatched to S&S Plaza in reference to theft of construction
material. Upon arrival, the officer spoke to the construction company owner who has been doing work on the plaza, who stated that the previous night, 14 groove boards valued at $100 each had been stolen from the site, for a total loss of $1,400. There were no security cameras in the area, and no witnesses could be located. With no immediately available evidence, the case remains open pending further information.
Coast Guard rescues boat off AMI OBITUARIES
Maryanne Meyer Kaemmerlen
Maryanne Meyer Kaemmerlen, a beloved mother, grandmother and friend, left us peacefully on July 22, 2024 in her home in Holmes Beach, Florida.
She was the daughter of Harold and Marguerite Meyer, who raised her in Larchmont, New York. She was an art major at Skidmore College, and in 1950, she and Paul were married. They moved to Vermont and were owners and operators of a ski lodge at Mount Snow in West Dover, where they brought up three daughters.
Maryanne was an accomplished
watercolor artist, painting until she passed at 98 years old. She enjoyed skiing, tennis, golf and especially horseback riding with her girls. She dedicated her life to her family and friends, touching the lives of those who knew her with kindness, generosity and hospitality. Her home was always filled with laughter, love and good food!
Maryanne is survived by her children, Susie (Ross) Jeffery and Robin (Steve) May; and three grandchildren, Amanda, Christopher and Jonathan May. Her daughter, Laurie (Andrew) Murdock, passed in March 2024. What a loving mother and grandmother she was! She will be deeply missed, but her vibrant spirit will live on in the hearts of those who were fortunate enough to have known her. No service will be held.
A U.S. Coast Guard Station Cortez boat crew rescued four boaters on Sept. 8 after their 19-foot boat began taking on water about 20 miles off the coast of Anna Maria Island. According to the Coast Guard, all four boaters were rescued without injury and transported to the Station Cortez. The boat did not sink, and according to the Coast Guard, the owner was coordinating vessel recovery.
U.S. COAST GUARD | SUBMITTED
U.S. Coast Guard Station Cortez rescued four occupants from this 19-foot boat after it began taking on water 20 miles off the coast of Anna Maria Island on Sept. 8.
CENTER NOTES
DBTB Juice Bar & Bakery
Enjoys Fridays with Dev’s Bevs and Ted’s Breads Juice Bar & Bakery at The Center of Anna Maria Island, 407 Magnolia Ave., from 9 a.m. to noon. Start your day with scratch-made breads, pastries and desserts made with organic flour, juices, coffee and smoothies and fresh produce in The Center’s café.
Beyond the Classroom afterschool open house
Families are welcome at The Center on Wednesday, Oct. 2 from 6:15-7:15 p.m. for the After-School Open House. Learn about the specialty youth programs The Center has to offer, as well as what to expect from the After-School program for children in kindergarten through fifth grade. Parents are encouraged to attend with their children. Pizza will be provided.
Future Aces Youth Tennis with tennis pro Richard Wright
The athletic and tennis development program for students in kindergarten through fifth grade (ages 6 to 12) on Wednesdays from 5-5:45 p.m. fosters athletic agility and beginner tennis technique. Kids will work in stations to learn stroke production, cultivate hand-eye coordination, fun footwork and improve overall coordination and strength skills. Sessions start on Wednesday, Oct. 9. Contact The Center for specific times for age group sessions and pricing. Registration is required.
All-day camp for kindergarten through fifth grade
When school is out, the fun begins at The Center on Monday, Oct. 14 from 8 a.m. to 6 p.m. Enjoy games, crafts and a visit from the Mad Science Guy at the full day camp with hands-on, interactive science activities that make learning fun and exciting. Pre-register by Thursday, Oct. 10. The cost is $65 for members and $75 for non-members.
MAYOR: Seymour, Short seek job
FROM PAGE 19
Both candidates would support the city regulating and enforcing mangrove protections at the local level.
CLOSING STATEMENTS
“I feel confident my friend Mark Short or I would both make excellent mayors,” Seymour said. “I am also a resident here, not just a business owner, and there are times when I do believe enough is enough. I hope you
all vote for me. I look forward to potentially serving the residents.”
Short said, “I feel like I have a pretty good pulse as to what is going on with the city, the people working for the city and the concerns of you, the residents. I’ve been committed on this commission and I believe I would be just as committed should you elect me mayor.”
Learn more at the Elect Brian Seymour for City of Anna Maria Mayor Facebook page
Skimboarding camp with AMI Skim and Surf
AMI Skim and Surf Camp by Island local Evan Talucci offers a single-day morning session on Monday, Oct. 14 from 9:30 a.m.-noon. Campers will have fun learning to use a skimboard and surf while enjoying and respecting the local beaches. Space is limited and preregistration is required by emailing youthprograms@centerami. org. The cost is $60 per session for members and $70 per session for non-members.
Making Sense of Medicare and Medicare Enrollment
Join Christopher Alesevich, licensed Medicare broker, in an educational presentation and interactive Q&A session. Find out about the components of Medicare and the enrollment process, broken down to help people make sense of Medicare, on Wednesday, Nov. 6 at noon.
To register for Center programs or for more information, email The Center at hello@centerami. org or call 941-778-1908.
and Instagram account. Learn more at MarkShortForMayor. com and the Facebook and Instagram accounts sharing the same name.
The forum video is archived at the Anna Maria Island Sun Facebook page, Facebook.com/AnnaMariaIslandSun.
Floridian Mortgage holds on for championship
BY MONICA SIMPSON SPECIAL TO THE SUN
ANNA MARIA –The Center closed out the adult summer season last Thursday night with three games played, and Floridian Mortgage come out on top after a hard-fought 29-27 game against team Fishing with Salty for the championship title.
After beating Salty Printing in the semifinal round of play, top seed Floridian Mortgage faced the Fishing with Salty team, which defeated Moss Builders in their playoff game 52-33. It was anyone’s game up to the final seconds, as both teams struggled to find their rhythm on the field.
Floridian Mortgage started the game on offense and quickly made a statement with a bomb by Chase Richardson to Tim Holly for a touchdown on the first play of the game. Right out of the chute, Richardson’s team was up 7-0 after Cory Banks scored the point after the score.
Fishing with Salty’s attempts to put points on the scoreboard were cut short after Dina DeJesus started her team on the right foot with a completed pass. Holly’s interception on the next play stopped the drive.
Richardson could not capitalize on the turnover, throwing bad passes and leading to a three and out series.
Taking over on downs, Fishing with Salty was ready as the team steadily marched down the field with short passes. Dylan Doyle, on second down, took the football into the pass-only zone in Floridian Mortgage territory.
Scoring its first touchdown, Jonathan Soultatos squeezed through defenders to score for team Fishing, taking the score to 7-6. Doyle scored the extra point. With the score tied, Richardson’s first target was Holly for a long run after the reception. Rex Kesten caught the football near the endzone after an injury timeout due to a DeJesus injury.
Tracking the front of the endzone, Tyler Brewer caught the ball for Floridian’s second TD of the game, with the finishing touch by Banks.
Leading once again, Floridian Mortgage played strong defense at their own endzone with their opponent in scoring position. Making the stop, Richardson returned to the field with his team, continuing to struggle.
Richardson overthrew Holly but eventually found Kesten for 6 points. Holly added a point to the scoreboard with a catch in the endzone.
After moving the ball to near midfield, Brewer got the call walking just over the first down line with the football overhead. With the clock down to the final minute of the first half of the game, Richardson found Brewer as a second option receiver on second down with the clock running.
With the football sitting on the 7-yard line, Floridian’s hope of scoring before halftime was dashed with another incomplete throw.
On offense, Fishing with Salty was 14 points behind.
Rushing Matt Briley, Holly sacked the quarterback in the endzone for a safety, giving team Floridian two points and possession of the ball.
First pass out, Richardson hit Holly, catching for a first down out-of-bounds with less than 10 seconds on the scoreboard clock. An impeding the rusher penalty for Floridian Mortgage and interception in the endzone by Briley ended the first half of play.
Fishing with Salty had the football to start the half with a short yardage play. The second snap resulted in a bomb to Doyle for 6 points. Soultatos scored the extra point, making it a 9-point ball game.
Three incomplete Richardson throws later, Fishing with Salty was back on offense with catches by Octavious Cole. A critical first down catch by Miguel Rodriguez kept the forward progress moving.
On second down, QB Briley kept the ball for long yardage after a quick pitch back from his teammate under center.
With the football at the 7-yard line, Soultatos was alone in the right corner of the endzone for the TD.
After the point after conversion by the Fishing squad, Richardson mixed it up, running with the football after a quick pitch from Holly two
Horseshoe victors
Neil Hennessy, left, and Norm Good ended up in the winner's circle at AMI Horseshoes on Sept. 11 after beating Tom Farrington and Jay Disbrow 22-5 in the final after each went 3-0 during pool play. On Sept. 14, Tim Sofran and Farrington won the day’s bragging rights after posting the only 3-0 record.
plays in a row, resulting in a first down with less than 12 minutes left in the game.
Standing his ground and avoiding a penalty, Holly and Soultatos had a standoff at the line of scrimmage as Richardson searched for an open player down field. After two bad passes, Richardson’s throw on
thanks to tight defense by Fishing with Salty.
Fishing with Salty’s Cole caught a big pass on third down for a TD, advancing the score to 29-27. With a possible win in sight, Brewer’s reception in the endzone denied the additional point to team Fishing.
A mid-air collision took Brewer and Briley out of the rest of the game with critical seconds left to play. Despite all their efforts, Fishing with Salty could not make up the large scoring gap made by Floridian Mortgage early in the game. The game was not pretty, but team Floridian Mortgage was named the league’s champion, winning over Fishing with Salty by two points.
SUN SCOREBOARD
SEPT. 12
ADULT CO-ED FLAG FOOTBALL SEMIFINAL
Floridian Mortgage 21 Salty Printing 20
Fishing with Salty 52 Moss Builders 33
CHAMPIONSHIP
Floridian Mortgage 29 Fishing with Salty 27
MONICA SIMPSON | SUN
Team Floridian Mortgage is the summer flag football champion at The Center. Pictured from left are Tyler Brewer, Rex Kesten, Cory Banks, Chase Richardson, Zach Wyrick, Derrick Carey, Tim Holly and Jasmine Muldoon.
FUN IN THE SUN
CLASSIFIEDS
ANNOUNCEMENTS
THRIVE BEACH YOGA: All Levels Welcome! 100 Pine Ave on AMI. 8:30am every Saturday & Sunday, Wednesdays (OctMay). $15 Pre-Registration required at ThriveYogaFit. com
VOLUNTEERS NEEDED:
TINGLEY LIBRARY in Bradenton Beach is looking for volunteers. Fun and friendly atmosphere. Morning and afternoon shifts. If interested, please contact Library Clerk, Eveann Adams, @ 941779-1208.
THE BEST VOLUNTEER position on the island. The AMI Historical Museum needs docents and bread makers. Call Kathy Primeau at 989-560-6381.
ROSER FOOD BANK needs donations of cash and non-perishable food, PAPER & PERSONAL HYGIENE PRODUCTS. Donations boxes are located at the Church, Moose Club, and Walgreen’s.
HOSPITAL VOLUNTEERS WANTED to assist at our information desk, especially weekends. Great for teens needing volunteer hours (16yrs+). Other assignments available. Please call the Blake Volunteer Office at 941-798-6151.
BOATS
BOATS ARE SELLING VERY WELL. “Business On A Handshake” Your Local Trusted Boat Dealer For 24 Years. I also buy boats. Dave Struber 941-228-3489. Islandboatsales.net
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
EMPLOYMENT
JOIN DUNCAN REAL ESTATE! Open positions: Bookkeeper, Administrative Assistant, Housekeeping Liaison Apply: Send resume to sybille@teamduncan. com
ANNA MARIA ISLAND SUN, is looking for a freelance reporter/ photographer to cover events on this tourismdriven island. The ideal candidate will have reporting and photography experience at a daily or community newspaper and have some experience writing for a news website. Local residents or those with previous local knowledge and willing to relocate here a plus. Resumes and cover letters may be mailed to The Anna Maria Island Sun, P.O Box 1189, Anna Maria, FL 34216, Attention: Cindy Lane, editor.
HOME IMPROVEMENTS
RENOVATION SPECALIST ALL carpentry repairs, Wash Family Construction, locally owned and operated CBC 1258250 Call 941-725-0073.
KERN & GILDER CONSTRUCTION, INC New Homes & Remodel. Design/Build. Since 1968. License # CBC 1261150. Call the Office. 941-7781115
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.
LANDSCAPING & LAWN CARE
R. GAROFALO’S Interlocking brick pavers, driveways, patios, pool decks. Free estimates. Licensed & Insured. Call Rafael 941-778-4823 or Veronik 941-526-7941
SHELL DRIVEWAYS & LANDSCAPE. Specializing in Old Florida Seashell and Lime rock driveways and scapes. Also River Rock, Sand, Mulch, & Soil. Call Shark Mark 941-301-6067
ISLAND RESIDENT. TREE/ BUSH Trimming, removal. Sweeping, blowing, and weeding. Weekly, bi-monthly or monthly schedule. Pressure washing. Call Bill Witaszek 941307-9315
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 941-705-7096
PROFESSIONAL PAINTING SERVICES. Prompt & Reliable. Island Resident. Quality Workmanship. Interior/Exterior. Minor repairs & carpentry. Free estimates. Bill Witaszek 941-307-9315
POOL SERVICES
FOUR SEASONS POOL SERVICE AND CHEMICAL SERVICES. Certified Pool Operator. 18 + Years Experience. Residential/ commercial. Chemical Service Licensed & Insured. Call Dennis Clark 941-737-5657
COLE'S TROPICAL POOL SERVICE Call Cole Bowers for all your pool maintenance needs! Affordable and Dependable!! 941-713-1893
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
RENTALS: ANNUAL
ANNUAL RENTALS WANTED! We have well qualified tenants for beach and mainland annual rentals, Full management or Finders fee. Call today for details. Ask for Paige DUNCAN REAL ESTATE 513-382-1992.
ANNUAL: 2BR/2BA single family, 55+, great W. Bradenton location $2300/ mo. Call 941-778-4800
ANNUAL RENTAL: Imperial House Condo 2BR/1BA $2000/mo - Available Aug 1st.. 208 B Magnolia Ave. 2BR/2BA $2900/mo- available Aug 1st. 407 76th St A Holmes Beach, FL 34216 3BR/2BA $5000/mo- available now with dock slip available for rent. Contact Sato Real Estate for more information. 941-778-7200
ANNUAL RENTAL at Perico Island. 2 bedroom, 2 bathroom condo. Water, trash, cable included. Parking and storage. Pool, tennis, Clubhouse. Small pet ok. $2350/month. HOA application fee required. Gulf Bay Vacations 941-778-7244
HOLMES BEACH 1BR/1BA plus bonus room, carport includes W/D and water. No pets/no smoking. First, Last, Security. $2000/mo. Available October 15. Call 860-922-3857
ANNUAL RENTAL 2BR/1BA Unfurnished Island Duplex steps to Gulf, quiet non smoking with no pets allowed. Owners use other side. $2775 includes all electric ac/heat good references/credit required 508-496-8480 williamshomes@yahoo.co
RENTALS: SEASONAL & VACATION
TIFFANY PLACE Gulf Front Condo for Rent Incredible views from living room and master bedroom. 2BR/2BA Green Real Estate Call 941-778-0455
SEASONAL RENTAL in PALMA SOLA. 3BR/2BA weekly or monthly rates. Contact Barb Grace 941-201-2190
ANNA MARIA ISLAND
CONDOS Large pool, beach access, free WiFi, 1&2 Bedroom $900 to $1200 per week redekercondosonami.com Tim 941-704-7525
ANNA MARIA ISLAND CONDO Available September and October 2024, and February thru November 2025. Great Value. Beautiful Upgraded 2BR/2BA Incredible water View! Waterfront Patio, Pool, tennis, pickle, walk to beach. Private carport. Excellent Rental terms. Owner/renter. Call/email for pics. drchristines @yahoo.com or 570-2390431
SEASONAL RENTAL IN HOLMES BEACH . Studio apartment Minimum 4 month rental, Available Dec 2024 - April 2025, $8700. 908-914-1282
TRANSPORTATION
ANYTIME TRANSPORTATION to all Airports, Casino, etc. Tampa/St. Pete $85. Sarasota $40. Pets welcome. Very dependable. Reasonable rates. Contact Jeanne. 941-779-5095
Jessica Pierce Sales Associate