City hosts hurricane preparedness workshop
City officials continue to prepare for the 2025 hurricane season that’s now underway.
BY JOE HENDRICKS SUN CORRESPONDENT | jhendricks@amisun.com
HOLMES BEACH – During the city’s town hall-style Hurricane Preparedness Workshop, members of the city’s emergency operations team spent nearly two hours sharing information about hurricane preparation, response and recovery.
Held at Holmes Beach City Hall on June 6, the workshop was livestreamed and the archived video can be viewed at www.holmesbeachfl. org/government/escribe.php.
After thanking the 25 or so audience members in attendance, Mayor Judy Titsworth said, “If I’ve learned anything from our past two hurricanes, it
is you can never be too prepared.”
Regarding mandatory evacuation orders, she said, “I know how hard it is to leave your home and not know the condition of it while you’re waiting to get back on the Island. We are going to continue to do everything we can to get you back on the Island as soon as possible.”
She said the debris removal costs and damage to city assets from Hurricanes Helene and Milton total nearly $8 million, but the city expects to be reimbursed for most of that.
“Hurricanes are inconvenient. They’re messy and they expose the character and resiliency of all affected,” she said. “Hurricane preparedness is a price you pay for living on this Island and there isn’t a better place I would rather be.”
SEE WORKSHOP, PAGE 15
Sea turtle release scheduled for June 23
Anna Maria Island Turtle Watch and the Sea Turtle Conservancy continue their successful sea turtle tag-and-release program.
BY LESLIE LAKE SUN CORRESPONDENT | llake@amisun.com
BRADENTON BEACH – A nesting loggerhead sea turtle release is scheduled for Monday, June 23 at 8:30 a.m. at a yet-to-be-announced location.
In prior years, the sea turtles have been released at Coquina Beach near a numbered lifeguard stand.
The release of the satellite-tagged sea turtle is sponsored by the Sea Turtle Conservancy along with partners Anna Maria Island Turtle Watch and Shorebird Monitoring and Hurricane Hanks. The turtle will then be tracked as part of the Sea Turtle Conservancy’s annual Tour de Turtles.
Attendees are encouraged to come early to get an up-close look and ask the turtle team questions.
The exact location will be announced the morning of the release on the Turtle Watch and Sea Turtle Conservancy Facebook pages. Due to the possible unavailability of a nesting turtle, a back-up date for the release will be June 24.
Clean Water Committee evolving
It's the season for musty-tasting water. This committee is trying to help.
BY JOE HENDRICKS SUN CORRESPONDENT | jhendricks@amisun.com
HOLMES BEACH – With two new members and a relatively new chairperson, the Clean Water Ad Hoc Committee remains committed to their primary objective: “To research means by which to sustain and improve upon the condition and purity of the natural waters and drinking water around Anna Maria Island.”
On May 27, city commissioners appointed Anna Maria resident Scott MacGregor and Longboat Key Public Works Director Charles Mopps as the committee’s newest members.
According to his application, MacGregor is a retired marine biology teacher and a boat captain for the past 15 years. When addressing the city commission, he said, “I’m looking forward to serving on the committee and I was very interested in the
meeting that I attended a couple weeks ago. Hopefully, my background - marine biology and being a captainwill serve the committee well.”
According to his application, Mopps’ water-related community activities include serving as a Sarasota Bay Estuary Program board member, a director of the Florida Shores and Beach Preservation Association board and a member of the Sarasota County Coastal Advisory Committee. His application says he can share with the Clean Water Committee information he’s learned from other organizations and he can share information from the committee meetings with Longboat Key town officials and the town-affiliated “green team.”
Comprised of Holmes Beach residents, Anna Maria residents and a Longboat Key town employee, the reconfigured committee meets next on Wednesday, June 18 at 9 a.m.
LESLIE LAKE | SUN
Loggerhead sea turtle Henrietta was released at Coquina Beach in 2024.
Commissioners discuss ‘green building’ incentives
Green building activities are rare on Anna Maria Island.
BY JOE HENDRICKS SUN CORRESPONDENT | jhendricks@amisun.com
HOLMES BEACH – Planning commissioners and Development Services Director Chad Minor recently discussed what, if anything, might be done to encourage “green building” in Holmes Beach.
According to the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, “Green building is the practice of creating structures and using processes that are environmentally responsible and resource-efficient throughout a building's life cycle. Green building is also known as a sustainable or high performance building.”
On May 29, Minor sent planning commissioners a memo that included proposed, staff-initiated land development code text amendments that would help implement Objective 1.8 in the city’s comprehensive plan, which says, “The city shall encourage energy efficiency and sustainability in building design, construction and renovation.”
Working in unison, the comp plan establishes the city’s long-term vision for
development and redevelopment and the land development code contains the specific codes that regulate development.
According to Minor’s memo, green building practices are generally consistent with techniques used to achieve third-party certification from entities like the U.S. Green Building Council Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design (LEED), the Florida Green Building Coalition and/ or the Green Lodging program.
On June 4, Minor and the planning commission discussed how the city might incentivize green building, which is much more expensive than standard construction.
“I haven’t seen a lot of it on the Island,” Minor said. “I can’t think of a single LEEDcertified or U.S. Green Building-certified green building on the Island.”
The Historic Green Village on Pine Avenue in Anna Maria was awarded Platinum LEED Certification in 2012.
Minor said the city’s incentive options are limited.
“We can’t offer building height incentives,” he said of the height restrictions contained in the city charter.
Minor said the city could waive building permit fees, expedite the permitting process and increase the
FGBC | SUBMITTED
The Florida Green Building Coalition promotes and supports green building practices.
maximum lot coverage from 30% to 40% for green building projects.
“You’re letting them have a larger building,” he said.
“I really have a problem with this,” Planning Commissioner Gale Tedhams said.
“I do too,” Commissioner Lisa Pierce said.
Tedhams said green buildings don’t get certified until the construction process is completed and additional certification and verification requirements are met. She said a structure built with additional lot coverage would remain standing even if the green building certification standards are never met.
“It’s not in line with what we’re trying to do,” she said.
“That’s why we have these discussions,” Minor said.
Pierce expressed concerns about in-
creased lot coverage allowances decreasing the setback distance between neighboring homes and increasing the fire hazards.
Pierce supports “true green buildings” but she’s concerned that some developers would take advantage of the incentives without fully meeting the certification requirements. Tedhams shared that concern.
Pierce wondered if a tax incentive could be given and Tedhams said Sarasota County gives rebates for completed green building projects.
Tedhams noted the Hunters Point community in Cortez is being developed as a LEED-certified community and there’s also a lot of green building occurring in Lakewood Ranch. She suggested inviting a green builder and/or a green certification verifier to share their insights with the planning commission.
During public input, City Commissioner Carol Soustek reminded Minor and the planning commissioners that revenues lost from waiving or reducing permit fees may have to offset elsewhere in the city budget.
The discussion produced no formal recommendations and the proposed text amendments are expected to be discussed at a future city commission work session.
ISLAND NEWS
IN BRIEF
City Pier walkway demolition expected this month
Anna Maria Mayor Mark Short said on June 7 that he expects the demolition of the hurricane-damaged City Pier walkway to begin later this month, weather permitting. On May 27, city commissioners authorized the mayor to execute a $239,500 demolition and debris removal contract with the Bradenton-based Quality Marine Construction company. The city-owned buildings at the T-end of the pier will not be demolished as part of the pier walkway replacement project that was necessitated by damage from Hurricanes Helene and Milton last year.
Waste Management increasing Anna Maria rate
Beginning on Aug. 1, Anna Maria residents and residential property owners will experience a 3% annual rate increase for the trash removal and recycling services provided by Waste Management. According to the city’s Facebook page, the annual 3% rate increase is allowed in the city’s environmental services agreement with Waste Management to help the company cover increased operating costs.
Beach hole ordinance on Thursday’s agenda
The Anna Maria City Commission will meet on Thursday, June 12 at 1 p.m. Commissioners will receive a presentation pertaining to a recently completed volunteer replanting project near the City Pier. They also will receive a presentation from GSM Partners about managing and reconstructing restaurant operations on the City Pier. After general public input on non-agenda times, the commission will be asked to approve the consent agenda that includes extending the city’s ongoing hurricane recovery-related emergency declarations, authorizing the mayor to enter into an agreement with Bringman Roofing to reroof the city hall building and authorizing the mayor to enter into an agreement with Forerunner for software for the planning department. The commission will also be asked to adopt city resolutions pertaining to future financing allocations and modifying the employee handbook. Commissioners will then be presented with the first reading of a “No Holes on Beach” ordinance that mirrors the county ordinance that prohibits using metal shovels or comparable garden tools to dig large holes in the sand at city-owned/city-managed beaches. The mayor and general manager will then provide the commission with a capital projects update. To access and/or participate in Thursday’s meeting, call 1-929205- 6099 and enter the meeting ID: 85392000280.
Scan this code with your smartphone to go there.
City declares local state of emergency in advance of July 4 weekend
Declaration will allow for overtime pay for police officers.
BY LESLIE LAKE SUN CORRESPONDENT | llake@amisun.com
BRADENTON BEACH – In the aftermath of large holiday crowds on the Island and at the request of Police Chief John Cosby the city commission approved a declaration of a local state of emergency for July 4-6.
“It’s not that there’s anything wrong, but we’re trying to be proactive,” Cosby said. “I need to be able to put people on call and pay out some extra overtime and there are some requirements in our emergency ordinance so I would like to activate that.”
According to the city’s emergency ordinance, the commission may approve “Performance of public work and taking whatever prudent action is necessary to ensure the health, safety and welfare of the community.”
Bradenton Beach Police Chief John Cosby requested an emergency declaration for the July
weekend at a June 5 city commission meeting.
Cosby noted that on Memorial Day a lot of people were trying to get to the Island and were disregarding “no parking” signs.
“We’re ticketing and they’re laughing at our $75 ticket so that’s something we are going to discuss at the budget meeting,” he said.
The declaration states, “As Mayor of the City of Bradenton Beach, pursuant to the authority vested in the office of the mayor by virtue of Article II, Section 3, of the charter of the city of Bradenton Beach in
order to ensure compliance with emergency preparedness declare a state of local emergency that will continue for three days... This local state of emergency includes all of the city of Bradenton Beach.”
“I appreciate everything you do and I know these holidays are extremely rough on your guys,” Mayor John Chappie said. If there’s anything we can do to help you and your police officers we will do that.”
The motion passed unanimously.
COMMITTEE: Clean Water Committee evolving
FROM PAGE 1
City Commissioner Terry Schaefer serves as the commission’s Clean Water Committee liaison. Before making the motion to appoint MacGregor and Mopps, Schaefer said when the committee was formed in 2021, membership was not limited to Holmes Beach residents. He said the goal has always been to include members from all three Anna Maria Island cities and the town of Longboat Key. He praised the “incredible backgrounds and expertise” that past, present and future members have to offer.
On May 14, founding member and original committee chair Ron Huibers participated in his final meeting, which included a detailed and informative presentation given by Sarasota Bay Estuary Program Executive Director Dave Tomasko. Tomasko stressed the need for the city of Bradenton to address its sewage discharges into the Manatee River and the need for state legislators to provide the $22 million Bradenton
needs to replace its wastewater treatment facilities.
Tomasko also stressed the need to protect the seagrasses that support manatees and other marine life and enhance water quality in Anna Maria Sound – the body of water east of Holmes Beach that carries an “impaired” designation from the Florida Department of Environmental Protection.
Huibers left the committee without accomplishing his top priority: the city’s purchase of an aquatic skimmer that could be used to remove algae
blooms and dead fish from the Holmes Beach waterways and canals.
In January, Huibers voluntarily relinquished the chairperson’s position and nominated committee member Dr. Jennifer Miller as his successor. As the new committee chair, Miller appeared before the Manatee County Tourist Development Council (TDC) on April 21 and provided a concise overview of the committee’s efforts, priorities and the importance water quality plays in attracting tourists to Anna Maria Island and Manatee County.
LESLIE LAKE | SUN
4
JOE HENDRICKS | SUN Founding committee member Ron Huiber, left, participated in his final meeting on May 14. Scott MacGregor, right, was appointed to the committee on May 27.
McDaniel returning as Rotary Club president
The Rotary Club of Anna Maria Island was honored for its hurricane relief efforts in Cortez.
BY JOE HENDRICKS SUN CORRESPONDENT | jhendricks@amisun.com
ANNA MARIA ISLAND – Jim McDaniel will serve as the next president of the Rotary Club of Anna Maria Island.
Succeeding current president Laurie Beppler and serving a one-year term that begins on July 1, McDaniel was installed as incoming president during the club’s June 3 board meeting at the Beach House restaurant in Bradenton Beach. McDaniel previously served as the club president from July 1, 2022 through June 30, 2023.
On June 7, while attending the Rotary District 6960 annual conference at the Westin Cape Coral Resort at Marina Village in Cape Coral, the Rotary Club of Anna Maria Island received the Small Club of the Year award for the club’s post-hurricane relief efforts in Cortez in the wake of Hurricanes Helene and Milton in 2024. Several club members received
Disaster Relief Champion awards and Slicker’s Eatery owner Bob Slicker, who was unable to attend the conference, won the prestigious districtwide Service Above Self award.
“It’s a testament to the group and its willingness to dive in and make good things happen,” McDaniel said.
During his previous stint as club president, McDaniel and Slicker helped the Rotary Club of Anna Maria
AMI ROTARY CLUB | SUBMITTED
Above, Jim McDaniel was installed as incoming club president by President Laurie Beppler on June 3. Left, Jim and Susan McDaniel, Judy Rupp and Laurie Beppler were joined by Rotary Club District 6960 Governor Kelsey Sola after receiving their awards.
Island raise more than $100,000 to support the war-related humanitarian efforts in Ukraine while also assisting 10 other club causes. The AMI Rotary Club supports several events and activities associated with Anna Maria Elementary School and the club’s inaugural Reel for Rotary fishing tournament that recently raised $25,000 for the continued support of the Cortez community.
It’s a testament to the group and its willingness to dive in and make good things happen.”
Jim McDaniel, incoming AMI Rotary Club president
Described by McDaniel as “The little club with big ideas, making a difference locally and globally,” the Anna Maria Island Rotary Club is part of the Rotary International organization whose motto is “Service above self” and its seven areas of focus are promoting peace, fighting disease, providing clean water, sanitation and hygiene, saving mothers and children, supporting education, growing local economies and protecting the environment. For information about club membership, contact McDaniel at Jim.mcdaniel2012@gmail.com.
We Do It AlL!
OPINION
The Anna Maria Island Sun Staff
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The Anna Maria Island Sun
P.O. Box 15179, Bradenton, FL 34280
Phone: 941-778-3986
email: news@amisun.com | ads@amisun.com | classifieds@amisun.com
LETTERS TO THE EDITOR
Key Royale speed tables questioned
This letter was initially sent to the Holmes Beach mayor and city commissioners.
As a year-round resident of Key Royale, I disagree with the city’s decision to install three speed tables in the 500 block of Key Royale Drive. That section already has sidewalks for the walkers to use. I also can’t help but wonder why you would stop at the Key Royale bridge. I either walk or ride my bike every day staying on Key Royale. Why not go all the way to the end of the road, then we could have another 15 or 20 speed tables, along with signage to go along with them. My guess is the people that are asking for speed tables might be the ones whose yards flood when we get a rainstorm. I think a more appropriate action would be for the Holmes Beach Police Department to check speeds and issue warnings and/or tickets. It also might not be a bad idea to publish the offenders’ names in the paper. If the offenders were told that if speeding continues then speed tables might be added. The speeders would get the idea soon enough. Has anyone actually polled the homeowners?
Dan Turner Holmes Beach
Speed tables endorsed
This letter was originally sent to the Holmes Beach mayor and city commissioners. As a 22-year resident, I can confirm that 90% of the vehicles speed on Key Royale Drive, from Marina Drive to Crestwood – all manner of motorists speed: Residents, visitors, day workers, delivery trucks; and some have been airborne going across the bridge. Last week, going east, a car passed us going 36 mph and continued to accelerate. Before they moved out from hurricane damage, my 80-plus-year-old neighbors used to walk across the street to my house to visit. They would have been mowed down. Going west from Ambassador, they really begin picking up speed as they round the corner near 610 Key Royale Drive. One year, someone was driving so fast they almost crashed into the house at 607 Key Royale Drive. With all the increased traffic from construction and rebuilding happening in the next one to two years, it’s only getting worse. Any and all things you can do to discourage speeding has our endorsement.
Lisa Pierce and Andrew Sheridan Holmes Beach
ON THE AGENDA
ANNA MARIA
10005 GULF DRIVE
FOR INFORMATION, CALL 941-708-6130
Visit www.cityofannamaria.com or contact city hall for more information. Thursday, June 12, 1 p.m., City Commission meeting
Wednesday, June 18, 9 a.m., Planning and Zoning Board meeting
Thursday, June 19, all day, city offices closed in honor of Juneteenth
BRADENTON BEACH
107 GULF DRIVE N. FOR INFORMATION, CALL 941-778-1005
Visit www.cityofbradentonbeach.com or contact city hall for more information. Thursday June 19, all day, city offices closed in honor of Juneteenth
HOLMES BEACH
5801 MARINA DRIVE FOR INFORMATION, CALL 941-708-5800
Visit www.holmesbeachfl.org or contact city hall for more information. Tuesday, June 10, 2 p.m., City Commission meeting and work session
Wednesday, June 18, 9 a.m., Clean Water Ad Hoc Committee
Thursday, June 19, all day, city offices closed in honor of Juneteenth
BRADENTON
Tuesday, June 24, 6 p.m., West Manatee Fire & Rescue District meeting, 701 63rd St. W.
WEDNESDAY, JUNE 11
Distractions Art Studio, 10-11 a.m. All ages; register online, Island Branch Library, Holmes Beach
Tech Help, 2- 4 p.m. by appointment, one-on-one, one-half hour, Island Branch Library, Holmes Beach Island Time Book Club, 6:30-730 p.m., American Dirt by Jeanine Cummins, Island Branch Library, Holmes Beach
THURSDAY, JUNE 12
Mad Science: Fire and Ice, 10011 a.m. All ages; register online, Island Branch Library, Holmes Beach
FRIDAY, JUNE 13
40 Carrots, 10-11 a.m. Ages 0-5; sign up at desk, Island Branch Library, Holmes Beach Mahjong for Experienced Players, 11:30 a.m. - 1:30 p.m. No registration required, Island Branch Library, Holmes Beach
SATURDAY, JUNE 14
Family Game Night, 3-5 p.m. All ages; no registration required, Island Branch Library, Holmes Beach.
Sea turtle nesting increasing ASK TURTLE WATCH
Some turtles have traveled far beyond the preHelene sand dune lines to nest, leaving eggs open to predators.
BY LESLIE LAKE SUN CORRESPONDENT | llake@amisun.com
ANNA MARIA ISLAND - Nesting has continued to increase in the past week, and the count is only 20 nests short of the count this time last year, which was a record year, according to Anna Maria Island Turtle Watch and Shorebird Monitoring Executive Director Kristen Mazzarella.
“We also had our very first green turtle nest of the season this week,” Mazzarella wrote in a June 6 email. “Green turtles are larger than loggerheads, have parallel flipper marks and create large craters when covering their nests. Green turtles generally nest every other year on AMI and we had a record 12 green turtle nests in 2023. We hope to break that record this year.”
Mazzarella stated that several turtles have traveled far beyond the pre-Hurricane Helene sand dune lines, washed away in 2024 flooding, crawling over seawalls or through fencing into yards.
“Sea turtles use a couple of strategies for nesting - and they nest several times in the season about two weeks apart, essentially not putting "all their eggs in one basket,” she wrote. “Nesting far inland near vegetation may prevent the nest from overwash from heavy surf, but may also introduce hazards of predators living in the vegetation and roots which may desiccate the eggs.”
Nesting inland will cause the hatchlings to have a long way to go to get to the water, increasing the possibility of disorientation or predation.
“Nesting closer to the water eliminates the issue of predators and roots, and gives the hatchlings a quick shot to the Gulf, but it does introduce the issue of water inundation,” she wrote.
KRISTEN MAZZARELLA | SUBMITTED
Peggy Welch prepares to measure a loggerhead false crawl which indicates that the sea turtle went over a seawall and traveled far inland.
Students from Anna Maria Elementary School submitted questions to Anna Maria Island Turtle Watch and Shorebird Monitoring Executive Director Kristen Mazzarella about sea turtles. Each week two of their questions and Mazzarella’s answers are featured in The Sun.
MRS. O’NEILL’S 4TH GRADE CLASS - HOW MANY DIFFERENT SPECIES ARE THERE OF SEA TURTLES?
There are seven species of sea turtles in the world - loggerheads, green turtles, leatherbacks, hawksbills, Kemp’s ridleys, olive ridleys and flatbacks. On Anna Maria Island we mostly have loggerhead nests and sometimes a couple of green turtle nests.
MRS. O’NEILL’S 4TH GRADE CLASS - WHAT SPECIES OF SEA TURTLES ARE ENDANGERED?
All species of sea turtles are listed as endangered somewhere in the world, but in other places they may be listed as threatened. The Kemp’s ridley is the rarest sea turtle in the world and is listed as critically endangered - this is the highest ranking, which means they are in the most danger of going extinct. Endangered is the next ranking and threatened is below that.
BIRD TIPS
During bird nesting season, February to September, please follow these tips:
• Never touch a shorebird chick, even if it’s wandering outside a staked nesting area.
• Teach kids not to chase birds – if they’re disturbed, bird parents may abandon nests.
• Don’t feed birds – our food is not good for their health, and it encourages them to fly at people aggressively.
• If birds are screeching and flying at you, you’re too close.
• Avoid posted bird nesting areas and use designated walkways to the beach.
• Keep pets away from bird nesting areas; dogs are not allowed on the beach by law.
• Keep the beach clean; food scraps attract bird predators such as raccoons and crows to the beach, and litter can entangle birds and other wildlife.
• If you see people disturbing nesting birds, call the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission’s Wildlife Alert hotline at 888-404FWCC (3922).
TURTLE TIPS
During sea turtle season, May 1 – Oct. 31, follow these tips to help turtles:
• Turn off lights visible from the beach and close blinds from sundown to sunrise; lights confuse nesting sea turtles and may cause them to go back to sea and drop their eggs in the water, where they won’t hatch. Light can also attract hatchlings away from the water.
• Don’t use flashlights, lanterns or camera flashes on the beach at night.
• Remove all beach chairs and other objects from the sand from sundown to sunrise; they can deter sea turtles from nesting and disorient hatchlings.
• Fill in the holes you dig in the sand before leaving the beach; they can trap nesting and hatching sea turtles, which cannot live long out of the water. You might also accidentally dig into an unmarked nest. To report large holes or other turtle obstacles, call:
• City of Anna Maria code enforcement — 941708-6130, ext. 111.
• City of Bradenton Beach code enforcement — 941-778-1005, ext. 227.
• City of Holmes Beach
code enforcement — 941778-0331, ext. 260.
• Level sandcastles before leaving the beach; they can block hatchlings from the water.
• Don’t use balloons, wish lanterns or fireworks; they litter the beach and Gulf, and turtles can ingest the debris.
• Do not trim trees and plants that shield the beach from lights.
• Never touch a sea turtle; it’s the law. If you see people disturbing turtles, call the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission’s Wildlife Alert hotline at 888-404-FWCC (3922).
Source: Anna Maria Island Turtle Watch and Shorebird Monitoring
NESTING NEWS
Turtle nests laid: 164 (Record: 543 in 2019) False crawls: 248 (Record: 831 in 2010) Nests hatched: 0 (Record: 453 in 2022) Hatchlings produced: 0 (Record: 35,850 in 2022) Hatchling disorientations: 0 Adult disorientations: 15 Nests remaining on beach: 164
Source: Anna Maria Island Turtle Watch and Shorebird Monitoring
CINDY LANE | SUN
Blue sunset
A great blue heron looks for its dinner at sunset on Anna Maria Island.
City offers $3 million for Gloria Dei property
Holmes Beach Mayor Judy Titsworth submitted the city’s $3 million initial offer to purchase the vacated Gloria Dei Lutheran Church property at 6608 Marina Drive last used for church services in January. On June 5, Titsworth said she hopes to hear back from the property owners’ representative this week. The mayor has city commission authorization to engage in additional negotiations with the property owners if the city’s initial offer is not accepted. The negotiated price would then be subject to city commission approval. In March, the property owners received a $9.9 million valuation appraisal that was based on the assumption that the 3-acre property would be rezoned for residential or commercial use. In May, the city received $2.1 million and $2.77 million valuation appraisals that were based on the assumption the property would retain its current public/semi-public zoning and future land use designations that don’t allow residential or commercial development on the property.
Artists’ Guild welcomes new artists
The Artists’ Guild of Anna Maria Island in Holmes Beach recently welcomed two new gallery artist members, Rebecca Mack and Jeff Merrill. Mack, a shell artist, is a retired teacher who moved to Florida from South Carolina. “Inspired by her frequent walks along the beaches of Anna Maria Island and Longboat Key, Rebecca has a passion for experimenting with different artistic ways to display the shells she has collected,” the Guild wrote in its June 2 press release.
Primarily self-taught, Merrill’s work features figurative art and portraiture along with a wide range of other subjects. He specializes in romantic realism but is comfortable with the abstract medium as well. A musician and singer, Merrill often incorporates that dimension into his artwork.
Located at 5414 Marina Drive, the Artists' Guild is an all-volunteer, nonprofit organization that promotes and supports the creative processes by bringing together artists to share their
experiences and expertise while working together to develop and promote the Island’s artistic community.
Center receives community support grant
The Center of Anna Maria Island received a $30,000 community support grant from the Ralph S. French Charitable Foundation Trust, a philanthropic organization dedicated to supporting programs that promote community well-being and public benefit. The grant will assist The Center’s ongoing recovery from the impacts of Hurricane Helene and Milton
last fall. The grant funds will help cover lost revenues and contribute to essential building repairs, including roof repairs. “We’re deeply grateful to the Ralph S. French Charitable Foundation Trust for investing in our mission and helping us remain ready to serve, no matter the season,” according to The Center’s June 2 press release.
• 512 Pine Ave, Anna
AGAMI | SUBMITTED
Rebecca Mack created this shell art.
AGAMI | SUBMITTED
Jeff Merrill painted this image of the Gulf of Mexico.
JOE HENDRICKS | SUN
City officials hope to purchase the former church building and property for public use.
Commissioners pursue palm tree removal
Maintenance of the 40-foot-tall Washingtonian palms is too costly.
BY LESLIE LAKE SUN CORRESPONDENT | llake@amisun.com
BRADENTON BEACH – A new look may be coming to the roundabout at Bridge Street and along Gulf Drive.
Mayor John Chappie said at a June 5 city commission meeting that the Washingtonian palms there have become too expensive to trim due to their height and he is exploring options to remove and replace them.
“In talking with Chief (John) Cosby with regards to the location of the Washingtonians, it’s becoming very expensive to trim these a couple times a year,” Chappie said. “It would be nice to get rid of them instead of spending the money we have to spend to trim them.”
The discussion also included some palm trees on Cortez Road.
“A lot of the cost comes in terms of traffic because I’ve got to put two officers out there and it takes up to a week usually to trim them and we’re spending between $6,000 and $8,000 a year to trim those trees,” Cosby said.
Gulf Drive is a state road and is under the scope of influence of the Florida Department of Transportation (FDOT), but Cosby said the city is responsible for the tree maintenance and would be liable for any damage caused by the trees to cars or pedestrians.
Chappie said he has had discussions with Darryl Richard, the FDOT Region One landscape architect, to ask if the agency would be agreeable to the removal of the trees and replacing them with approved palms.
In 2024, the city planted coconut
palms in the roundabout and they had to be removed due to FDOT regulations that prohibited them as an unapproved tree species.
“I won’t make that mistake again,” Chappie said.
“One of the things FDOT is concerned about is clear trunk space, because of the location so cars can see,” Chappie said. “Believe it or not, those Washingtonians were small 30-40 years ago.”
Cosby recommended planting smaller trees to replace the 40-foot-tall and higher Washingtonians that could be trimmed by city public works employees and would not necessitate road closure.
“I would like them to be standing on a ladder with a pole saw, and then you can reach them,” Cosby said. “So, 20 to 30 feet would be perfect. I’d like to be able to go trim them from the sidewalk, so I don’t have to shut the road down. It’s next to impossible to shut that road down for maintenance of trees.”
Cosby said two of the Washingtonians were lost in the hurricanes and city crews cut those out.
LESLIE LAKE | SUN
“It’s becoming so cumbersome,” Cosby said. “We used to rent the lift and by the time we were said and done we were $8,000. That’s just not worth it. You don’t see anything. You have to look way up to see so if you are driving by and you’re trying to promote the aesthetics of the area, there’s nothing to see.”
Chappie said some of the suggested species of palms would be sabal palms, thatched palms and cabbage palms.
“They’re not 40 feet tall and that’s where the cost is, you can’t trim them unless you’re blocking off the street,” he said.
With regard to the palms that are along the Cortez Bridge, Chappie noted that 1% of the cost of the new bridge has to be spent on landscaping.
“If the commission is OK with the removal, we’ll put it on the agenda for the next CRA (Community Redevelopment Agency) meeting,” Chappie said.
“I think it’s a good idea to remove them and reevaluate what to plant with something that we can keep in house
and manage ourselves,” Commissioner Deborah Scaccianoce said. “It makes more sense financially.”
Commissioner Jan Vosburgh said she is in favor of doing things as maintenance-free as possible.
“You don’t have to have the same species, you can do a mixture,” City Attorney Ricinda Perry said. “I think the issue is, chief and I were talking, we have the contractor ready to go but rather than have the expense of the trimming, we’d like to take money for the removal.”
Cosby asked the commission to put out a request for proposal to have a professional horticulturist or landscape planner make recommendations about which trees to plant.
“We also need to include irrigation. Nothing is going to grow properly without that, and we have a truck, we can water, but with the amount of traffic that’s on Bridge Street we’re blocking the road to water,” Cosby said.
He said there are already two water meters on Bridge Street.
“We just have to extend the line out and run it,” Cosby said. “Some of that will have to be dug up and it would be a good time to talk about redoing, or getting rid of those brick crosswalks. All the ribbon curb that holds them in place is shot. We could probably combine this into one project and really do a very good rejuvenation of that area. And maybe add a little color.”
Perry said CRA approval is necessary to use CRA funds for the new palms. Commissioners unanimously came to a consensus to have Cosby obtain a cost for the tree removal and bring it back for approval at the first meeting in July.
“I would definitely like to get them gone before hurricane season,” Cosby said.
Bradenton Beach commissioners want to remove tall Washingtonian palms and replace them with more manageable species.
Single-family home elevator systems have risks
RODNEY KWIATKOWSKI
In an era where residential elevators are increasingly common in single-family occupancies, homeowners must recognize the potential safety risks these systems pose, particularly during emergencies. While elevators enhance accessibility and convenience, they also present unique challenges for both occupants and first responders. Without proactive planning, these systems can transform from assets to liabilities, especially in high-stress situations such as medical emergencies or fires.
One of the most critical, yet often overlooked, aspects of
home elevator safety is the proper placement and availability of elevator keys. These keys are not only essential for daily maintenance but also serve as vital tools during emergency response.
Homeowners within the West Manatee Fire Rescue (WMFR) district are encouraged to con-
sult with the Fire Marshal’s Office about the best practices for key placement, ideally in a secure yet easily accessible location known to both the homeowner and WMFR. This proactive approach ensures that first responders have immediate access during emergencies, mitigating the risks associated with delays.
Unlike commercial elevators, which typically use standardized keys, such as the drop key or lunar key, many private home elevator systems utilize proprietary keys specific to the manufacturer or installer. This proprietary nature can severely limit access for first responders
during critical incidents and can delay life-saving interventions or potentially cause significant damage to the home.
Homeowners with proprietary keys are asked to coordinate with their elevator manufacturer or installer to obtain additional copies. Keeping these keys readily available and informing WMFR of their existence and location can dramatically improve response times and safety outcomes.
In summary, while single-family home elevator systems offer unparalleled convenience, they require diligent safety
planning. West Manatee Fire Rescue emphasizes the importance of homeowners coordinating with the Fire Marshal’s Office regarding elevator key placement to reduce risks to personal safety, property damage and ensure a coordinated emergency response.
Homeowners must recognize that a simple key, often proprietary, can mean the difference between a quick rescue and a costly tragedy.
Proactive communication and planning are essential for safeguarding both residents and first responders in the face of elevator-related emergencies.
Tingley library clerk Adams retires
BY LESLIE LAKE SUN CORRESPONDENT | llake@amisun.com
BRADENTON BEACH –
Tingley Memorial Library clerk Eveann Adams is retiring effective June 21.
In a May 27 letter to the city, Adams stated, “After being the clerk at Tingley Memorial Library for 22 years, I must now formally advise you of my impending retirement. I will advise the library volunteers and the library board of my decision, and trust you will notify, if anyone else, on my behalf.”
Mayor John Chappie announced Adams’ resignation at the June 5 city commission meeting.
“On behalf of the city I want to thank her for her 22 years,” Chappie said.
Tingley Memorial Library open
The Tingley Memorial Library has reopened. Library hours are Tuesday through Friday from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. and Saturday from 10 a.m. to noon. The library is located at 111 Second St. N., Bradenton Beach.
library board treasurer, as new board members have not yet been appointed.
City commissioners and members of the Tingley Memorial Library board met on May 21 to discuss the future of the library, funding for repairs and a renewed conversation about raising the library for parking.
non-profit corporation independent of the Manatee County library system. It was originally funded by benefactor Beulah Tingley with a bequest of more than $600,000.
Commissioner Deborah Scaccianoce asked about the process for replacement.
“We’re waiting for the board to get some things settled,” he said. Adams was also serving as
At that meeting, city Building Official Bill Palmer and Police Chief and Public Works Director John Cosby outlined needed repairs to the library building, which included replacement of ramps, soffits and air conditioning ductwork.
Built in 1994, the library is a
“It wasn’t going to last forever and that’s the pickle we’re in right now with the financials and the building structure. We’re getting to a point that we have to figure out what we’re going to do with the library as far as figuring out the structure itself and where the funds would come from,” Chappie said on May 21. “We’re going to have to start doing something (about the repairs) and there just isn’t money there.”
OUTDOORS
The apex of angling: Part two
Reel Time
RUSTY CHINNIS
ast week we discussed the basics of fly fishing for tarpon; now we want to discuss the all-important details. Once set up, the angler must be able to make a 40- to 50-foot cast to a location the size of a dinner plate. Placement of the fly cannot be overemphasized because tarpon will seldom vary a foot or two from their path to eat a fly. Although there is always the rare exception, a fly must never travel in a path towards the intended target or stop when a tarpon gives chase. A tarpon’s prey species wouldn’t survive long if it moved towards its aggressor or stopped during pursuit and tarpon know it. Besides moving away from the fish, the fly must move at the proper pace and be at the proper depth. Conversely you can’t move the fly too fast, taking it out of a tarpon’s range. It’s a matter of learning to “read” the fish. If all this wasn’t demanding enough, once a tarpon decides to eat the fly, the angler’s mettle is tested. Tarpon are not trout and attempting to raise the rod to set the hook is a cardinal mistake. Fortunately once a tarpon decides to eat the fly, there’s no need to make a lighting fast hook set. The right set is called a “strip strike” which involves letting the line come tight and immediately setting the hook with a combination of the line hand and the rod. The angler must at once work to set the hook in the cement-like jaw while being ready for the fish to bolt away from the boat. After the initial hook set, attention must go immediately to clearing the line (getting the loose line off the deck). In most cases the angler has been stripping in line when the fish bites and the hook is set. That line can easily foul on the angler, the rod or the reel. The angler must take their attention from the fish to the line at their feet. By holding the rod away from your body and letting the excess line pass through the stripping hand through a circle made with the thumb and the forefinger, there is less chance of the line fouling. Once the line is “on the reel,” the hook should be set with several more strip strikes, using the rod.
If this wasn’t enough to remember, it’s critical to apply maximum pressure to the tarpon during the fight, yielding only on jumps when the angler thrusts the rod forward to relieve pressure on the line. This prevents the tarpon from breaking off if it lands on a taut line. This maneuver is known as “bowing to the king.”
It’s customary to start the engine and get as close to the tarpon as possible after the initial and subsequent long runs. This allows the angler to apply maximum pressure. If a tarpon is 100 yards from the boat, the stretch of the line makes it impossible to apply any real pressure.
If you’re looking for a good jump shot, here’s a great tip: When a tarpon makes any long run, motor to it, applying only enough pressure to make sure the hook doesn’t dislodge. As soon as you are in place, frame the shot you want and then have the angler apply maximum pressure. Most times the tarpon will make a jump that’s close enough to the boat to get the angler and the fish in the shot. It’s not a sure thing, but when it works it can present an awesome photographic opportunity. Finally, don’t try and rush the tarpon when it gets near the end of the fight. Keep the pressure on but don’t clamp down and try to force the fish to the boat. Catching a tarpon on the fly is a challenging endeavor, one of angling’s ultimate tests, and well worth the effort when you finally get that first fish boatside for a photograph.
RUSTY CHINNIS | SUN
Andy Mill, a seasoned tarpon angler and host of the popular fly fishing podcast Mill House, demonstrates the art of "bowing to the king."
WORKSHOP: City hosts hurricane preparedness workshop
Police Chief Bill Tokajer made it clear that he and his officers will not remain on the Island during the next major hurricane. He and several officers stayed during Hurricane Helene and became trapped inside the police department by the storm surge that Kamiya said reached 7 feet in some areas.
Tokajer stressed the need to follow evacuation orders. He said once the winds hit a certain speed (35-55 mph depending on the agency), calling 911 will get you on a waiting list but no one’s coming to get you until the winds die down.
In addition to the city website and the city and police department Facebook pages used to share hurricane information in the past, the city has implemented the city-specific TextMyGov messaging system. Send a text to 91896 that says “HOLMESBEACH” and enter “YES” in response to the confirmation message.
West Manatee Fire Rescue Fire Inspector Cierra Price stated the importance of removing electric vehicles from the path of a potential saltwater storm surge.
“If you’ve ever seen a lithium (battery) fire, they’re really hard to put out. Don’t park them in your garage. Your house will catch on fire,” she said.
other construction materials are not supposed to be placed streetside for free debris removal and should be removed by the contractors or subcontractors doing the repairs.
Code Compliance Chief James Thomas said those caught illegally disposing of trash and debris after a hurricane will be ticketed and fined.
Building Official Neal Schwartz said there is a lot of confusion about FEMA’s 50% substantial damage rule and how that’s applied to individual properties.
The hurricane preparedness workshop panel members shared their insights and expertise.
Price advises residents and property owners to disable their fire alarms and home security systems before evacuating to help prevent false alarms. She said the West Manatee Rescue Fire district responded to 92 false alarms in October 2024, around the time Hurricane Milton struck, and the monthly average is between seven and 20.
“You’re now taking emergency services to a false alarm when we could be responding to an actual emergency,” she said.
Price said during mandatory evacuations and emergency declarations residents and property owners are allowed by law to disable their fire alarm panels by shutting off the power and removing the backup batteries.
Public Works Director Sage Kamiya said his department’s first post-storm priority is clearing the city streets, followed by the removal of household and landscaping debris placed in the streetside city rights of way.
Titsworth said drywall, roofing and
“We do not make a determination if a property is 50% damaged or not. That is up to the homeowner/contractor that is going to fill out the required 50% cost breakdown from FEMA,” he said.
“This is why we require permits for all storm recovery work,” Development Services Coordinator Kim Charron added. “We have to track any repair costs and submit it to FEMA. Any repairs for storm damage have to be documented with a building permit.”
Development Services Director Chad Minor said hurricane repairs and restorations done without a permit can still be remedied.
“There is a way to get it done right,” he said. “Come in and talk to us. We can assist with those issues. We can right the ship.”
MAY 23-AUGUST 30
THURSDAY, FRIDAY, SATURDAY 7PM & 9P M
JOE HENDRICKS | SUN
REAL ESTATE
Are you tired of homeownership?
Everyone who has owned property – whether it’s a condo or a single-family home or investment property – has had those days when you have no idea why you’re doing this. Isn’t renting easier, less stressful and maybe even less expensive? Well, if you ever thought about renting, you’re probably thinking about it more after last year’s hurricane season. But not so fast.
Renting rather than owning has its own set of positive and negative attributes. Renting gives you the flexibility to move, change jobs or get out of bad weather. Renting is usually less expensive with upfront costs, certainly far below a house downpayment. There is less responsibility relative to maintenance; usually, landlords make repairs and replace mechanical malfunctions, a fixed payment at least for the term of the lease and no surprise appliance replacement costs or storm damage to repair.
The flip side of the coin is that you’re
Castles in the Sand
not building equity for the future by either paying off a mortgage or accumulating appreciation. Depending on your age and lifestyle, this may or may not be an issue. Landlords can raise rent upon the lease renewal to whatever the market will bear. Lack of control as it relates to personalization or modification of the property is a problem for many people; also, the always unknown of what a landlord has in mind for the future use of the property. There are rent vs. own calculators online if you need hard numbers on a property you’re thinking of renting. There is also another way to rent rather than own; one way is the rent-to-own option.
This arrangement is nothing new and typically is designed to help first-time owners to get a foot in the door of home ownership. Rent-to-own agreements put aside a portion of the buyer’s/renter’s monthly rent payment to use as a down payment on the ultimate purchase of the property.
Another option is the lease/purchase, which obligates the buyer to purchase the home at a pre-negotiation price at the end of the lease, or a lease option at the end of the lease, which allows the buyer the option to purchase if they want. Both lease purchase and lease option contracts have the ability to set aside a portion of the rent for the future transaction. Builders frequently offer the rent-to-own ability for new construction as a way to get people into vacant homes and mitigate the builder’s carrying cost. These techniques are now also being used by buyers who have adequate funds and ability to purchase a home. Buyers in this category are choosing to rent
under one of the rent to own options and hold on to their money for investment purposes. This has become more popular as part of the fallout of increased mortgage rates, making borrowing money more expensive with the hope of reduced rates in the future.
All of these transactions are complicated and may be risky for both renter/buyers and seller/landlords. Legal advice is vital, and every detail of the arrangement needs to be clearly spelled out. Who pays the taxes and insurance, who is responsible for lawn maintenance, is the property furnished and who is responsible for wear and tear on the furniture, I could go on, but the point is the devil is in the details. So now that we’ve all lived through what we’re hoping was the worst hurricane season ever, do we still want to own or rent? The answer to this question is highly personal and very difficult to decide. I for one am reserving my answer to this question till Nov. 15. Stay safe.
LOUISE BOLGER
Commission approves Coquina Beach 5K run
BY LESLIE LAKE SUN CORRESPONDENT | llake@amisun.com
BRADENTON BEACH
– City commissioners approved an application from the Manatee County Sports and Leisure Services Department to hold a 5K run at Coquina Beach on Saturday, July 12.
The Run Manatee 5K is the second in a series of events. The inaugural event was held in April 2025 at Tom Bennett Park and drew more than 500 attendees.
Beginning at 5 p.m. the run will start at the south end of Coquina Beach with a turnaround at Third Street South. The event runs until 8:30 p.m.
Food trucks and a beer garden will be on-site as well as commercial exhibitors and craft and food vendors. The application notes: “Alcohol is not permitted
in Manatee County parks or beaches per county ordinance. However there are occasions (large fenced events with police presence to monitor or events that are held in partnership with county) when alcohol is permitted at these sites. These events will also require off-duty police officers, paid for at the expense of the event coordinator.”
County code enforcement officers will assist with event oversight, including monitoring of parking areas and ensuring compliance during beer sales. The beer garden will be a designated fenced-in area secured with barricades. No alcoholic beverages will be allowed outside the enclosed area. Commissioners unanimously approved the application on June 5.
CENTER SCOREBOARD
ADULT SOCCER SEMI-FINALS Sato Real Estate W (penalty kicks) 2
ADULT 3V3 BASKETBALL Slim’s Place (7-1) (0-8)
Fernandes, Kriebel pitch to win
For the second time in a row, action at Anna Maria Horseshoes was washed out shortly after the games started on June 4. On June 7, Gersey Fernandes, left, teamed up with Steve Kriebel to win the day’s competition after posting the only 3-0 record at the pits.
ANNA MARIA HORSESHOES | SUBMITTED
BEACH BEAT
HOLMES BEACH
May 29, 12:16 a.m., 3000 block of Gulf Drive. Drug possession. A 38-year-old Anna Maria Island woman was charged with possession of methamphetamine
after an early morning traffic stop. Police said officers observed a Hummer H2 pulling a multikayak utility trailer that had no tail lights or license plate. Police report they saw what they believe to be illegal items in plain view. The woman was detained and police said the substance field tested positive for methamphetamine. The woman reportedly
told police the bag was hers, but the drugs, which weighed 0.4 grams, had been placed in the bag by someone else. During the course of the investigation police determined that the women had been living and working in Florida as a licensed practical nurse for about three years, and has been creating businesses in Florida which include a clear bottom kayak tour, but still uses an Ohio driver license. In addition to the drug possession charges, she was issued a criminal citation for violation of non-resident requirements for a driver license and was also cited for no trailer taillights and no trailer license plate. The vehicle was towed. May 30, 10:36 p.m., 52nd Street. Beverage law violation. Police responded to a report of a disturbance by a group of teens who were reportedly throwing cans at a condo fence and possibly smoking marijuana. Police reported that there were several cars parked along the fence line and next to one of the cars were beer cans on the ground and a wet spot on the fence. Two male teens were in the car. One said he had not been drinking, the other claimed ownership of the beer.
He was arrested and charged with possession of alcohol by a person under 21 years old. May 30, 11:44 p.m., Avenue C. Aggravated battery. Police responded to a report by a woman of a domestic disturbance with her ex-boyfriend at a bar. She said she had been struck twice. Police said the man was wrapping a shirt around his head to control bleeding and he appeared to be covered in a large amount of blood on his arms, hands, torso and head. The man said the pair had broken up several months earlier and when they saw each other an argument ensued. He said the woman walked away to a residence of a man she knows and said he followed her. He said the resident struck him with a metal pipe and that the woman began punching him on the back of the head. The ex-boyfriend admitted striking the woman. The resident denied using a metal pipe. Due to conflicting versions of events, police completed a capias request for the resident for aggravated battery with a deadly weapon, a capias request for the woman and the ex-boyfriend for domestic battery.
Michael Saunders & Company celebrates Island return
On June 8, the Michael Saunders & Company real estate brokerage firm celebrated its recent return to the Island with a grand reopening open house and a ribbon-cutting ceremony conducted by the Anna Maria Island Chamber of Commerce. “After months of rebuilding, we’re proud to return stronger than ever, ready to serve our clients with the same dedication and care they’ve come to expect. This is more than a reopening –it’s a recommitment to the people and places we call home,” founder and CEO Michael Saunders said in the grand reopening event press release. On April 29, Michael Saunders & Company resumed its Holmes Beach-based Anna Maria Island operations at 6000 Marina Drive
#113 in Holmes Beach.
The ground level office space was closed for nearly seven months due to damage from Hurricanes Helene and Milton in 2024. The interior damage required the removal of the subfloors, the installation of a new concrete slab and complete interior reconstruction.
“The updated space now features a fresh, modern
coastal design that reflects the unique character and resilience of Anna Maria Island,” according to the press release. During the closure, agents continued serving clients from remote locations and the Bradenton office. The renovated Island office serves Anna Maria, Holmes Beach, Bradenton Beach, Longboat Key and Bradenton.
MICHAEL SAUNDERS & COMPANY | SUBMITTED
A ribbon-cutting ceremony was part of Sunday’s grand reopening celebration.
CLASSIFIEDS
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
CONSTRUCTION/ INSURANCE
WE SPECALIZE IN: WIND
Mitigation forms, 4-POINT forms, DECK safety and evaluation. State Certified since 1990. Call Mike Conley 941-778-2385. Straight Inspection Service. Veteran Owned
EMPLOYMENT
ROSER CHURCH SEEKS
part-time Assistant Facilities Administrator to cover Friday to Sunday and special events. Read the Job Description RoserChurch. com/job-opportunity.
GARAGE SALE
BIG YARD SALE Saturday June 14 8am- 2pm 411 28th St. Holmes Beach. Twin Kayaks, Schwinn electric scooter, Bicycles, Mini electric kids scooter, Tons of tools. Electrical items, cable, Kitchen ware, Décor, Antiques, stuffed 7’ hammerhead shark. 14” Delta band saw, file cabinets, 3HP boat motor. Tons of misc. stuff.
GOLF CARTS
2023 BINTELLI LUXURY
GOLF CART – 6 passenger, street legal, lithium battery, fully loaded, under 900 miles, burgundy, sound bar, LED lighting, garage kept, 630-768-2054, $10,900.
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. NEW OFFICE ADDRESS: 1878 59th Street W Bradenton, FL 34209
GET’R DONE DRYWALL, INC Specializing in Remodels & Repairs. Island Resident for 20+ years. Call Neil. Cell 941-9621194
JSAN CORPORATION
Renovations Construction & Handyman Services 941-243-0995 Lic# CRC1332505 jsancorporation@gmail. com Flooring, Drywall, Painting, Repairs, Kitchen and Bathrooms, Trim & Doors. Free Estimates. Credit Cards Accepted.
GORILLA DRYWALL REPAIR, LLC. 15+ years of experience. Free Estimates. Let’s solve your Drywall problems together. Call 941-286-0607.
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
FROM HOME TO BUSINESSES, we build it all. You’re Reliable General Contractor for new construction, water damage, restoration 941-894-7549 or email at@constructionatr.com
BATHROOM REMODEL
STARTING at $1999
Limited Time Promotion (labor only) McGhie Construction Inc. State certified CBC 1258471 Call 813-966-3707 Free Estimates
START TO FINISH, Custom Carpentry, Accent Walls, Drywall and much more 941-565-2165
HANDYMAN: Repairing two homes on AMI. Carpentry, painting, flooring, minor electric and plumbing, etc. Self-starter, Work your schedule, full or part time. Call or text Darryl, 813-439-0516.
LANDSCAPING & LAWN CARE
R. GAROFALO’S Interlocking brick pavers, driveways, patios, pool decks. Free estimates. Licensed & Insured. Call Rafael 941-778-4823 or Veronik 941-526-7941
ISLAND RESIDENT. TREE/ BUSH Trimming, removal. Sweeping, blowing, and weeding. Weekly, bi-monthly or monthly schedule. Pressure washing. Call Bill Witaszek 941307-9315
SHELL DRIVEWAYS & LANDSCAPE. Specializing in Old Florida Seashell and Lime rock driveways and scapes. Also River Rock, Sand, Mulch, & Soil. Call Shark Mark 941-301-6067
DEVINE DESIGN LANDSCAPE - Professional Landscape and Design Services for your entire property. Irrigation services, Tree Removal and trimming, Sod, Mulch, Fencing, Pavers and Landscape Lighting. Commercial and Residential. Call 941-4656015 DevineDesign7@ yahoo.com
MOVING & STORAGE
MARTIN’S MOVING YOUR Island movers! Offering dependable, competitive rates. No hidden costs. 941-8095777.
PAINTING & WALLCOVERING
PAINT! PAINT! AND MORE 28 years of experienced interior/exterior custom painting. Pressure cleaning, drywall repairs and texture finishes. Many Island references. Please call Neil for free estimates. 941-812-0507
“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
TRUE TONE PAINTING. Painting, power washing, epoxy floors and more, No job too small. Please call 941-224-4020 www. truetonepainting.com
PEST CONTROL
ANNA MARIA PEST CONTROL Call 941-7781630
POOL SERVICES
FOUR SEASONS POOL SERVICE AND CHEMICAL SERVICES. Certified Pool Operator. 18 + Years Experience. Residential/commercial. Chemical Service Licensed & Insured. Call Dennis Clark 941-7375657
COLE'S TROPICAL POOL SERVICE Call Cole Bowers for all your pool maintenance needs! Affordable and Dependable!! 941-713-1893
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
BEST DEAL ON THE ISLAND
$2.6 million custom built 5 bedroom 4 bath pool home gulf views roof top deck, elevator, 3 car garage, income producing property. Sharon Hightower Remax alliance group 941-330-5054
FOR SALE - PERICO BAY CLUB New Price for 2BR/2BA villa with Water View!
FOR SALE
ESTATE HOMES & CONDOS
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
HOLMES BEACH Partial Gulf View & Intracoastal views 5BR/4BA/4CG
Custom built home private pool, elevator, all tile flooring. Best Price $2,600,000. Sharon Hightower RE/MAX Alliance Group 941-3305054.
PERICO ISLAND
3BR/2BA single family home 2 car garage great community Clubhouse, pool, fitness room, sauna, sold furnished $699,900. Sharon Hightower RE/ MAX Alliance Group 941-330-5054.
2 CAR GARAGE, open floor plan & high ceilings! $374,400 Call Erin Leathem at The Anna Maria Sales Team at Island Real Estate 941448-5616
RENTALS: ANNUAL
ANNUAL RENTAL minutes to beaches 2BR/2BA Condo. Water/cable included, pool, washer/ dryer. $1595/mo. Call 941713-6743
HOLMES BEACH 209 83rd St.: 2BR/2BA private pool, large screened lanai! $3000/mo. Water, trash, lawn care included. Also pool care. Annual, unfurnished. 1 Year lease. 1st, & $4500 security deposit Call 941-809-2488
BEAUTIFUL PERICO BAY Club Condo! 2BR/2BA, Second Floor Unit $4750/ mo seasonally, $2500/mo annually +Security Deposit Please call 941-7781979 for more details.
BRADENTON BEACH NEWLY RENOVATED 2BR/1BA downstairs, walk to beach & Bolan park. $2350/mo First, last & $800 deposit. Call 941-705-4737.
WATERFRONT ANNA MARIA ISLAND exclusive Key Royal home. 2BR/2BA/2CG. Completely remodeled. Pool, Dock with Boat lift. Walk to beaches and golf course. Pet friendly. Fenced yard. Non-smoking. Annual Rental. Unfurnished. Call owner 941-704-7336 $7500/mo. Available 7/1/2025
BUSINESS & SERVICE DIRECTORY
RENTALS: ANNUAL
YOU WON'T WANT TO MISS this rare opportunity to live on Anna Maria Island. Please call the office at 941-778-1979 to see this 2BR/2BA $2975/ mo renovated home with a beautifully landscaped large backyard.
HOLMES BEACH 2nd FLOOR living. 1BR/BA, bonus room. Just updated. New appliances. No hurricane damage. Carport under home. No pets/no smoking. $2000/mo. Call 860-922-3857
RENTALS: SEASONAL & VACATION
ANNA MARIA ISLAND
CONDOS Large pool, beach access, free WiFi, 1&2 Bedroom $900 to $1200 per week redekercondosonami.com Tim 941-704-7525
TIFFANY PLACE Gulf Front Condo for Rent Incredible views from living room and master bedroom. 2BR/2BA Green Real Estate Call 941-778-0455
SEASONAL RENTAL in PALMA SOLA. 3BR/2BA weekly or monthly rates. Contact Barb Grace 941201-2190
AVAILABLE NOW! SEASONAL RENTAL Beautiful bright renovated condo 2BR/2BA - 1 floor Perico Bay Club - gym, tennis, hot tub, pool, parking $4700/ month Call 612802-8357
TRANSPORTATION
ANYTIME TRANSPORTATION to all Airports, Casino, etc. Tampa/St. Pete $85. Sarasota $40. Pets welcome. Very dependable. Reasonable rates. Contact Jeanne. 941-7795095
Beachside Hospitality appreciates students, teachers
For the past five years, the Beachside Hospitality restaurant ownership group’s Teacher Give Back initiative has helped more than 170 teachers fulfill their classroom wish list needs ahead of the new school year by presenting more than $45,000 in Amazon gift cards. This year, Beachside Hospitality is extending their teacher and school appreciation efforts with some additional summer giveaways. Throughout June, the Beachside Hospitality group’s Sandbar Seafood + Spirits restaurant, 100 Spring Ave. in Anna Maria, is offering a free scoop of ice cream to students who present a “positive report card” at the restaurant’s Sweet Willy’s Ice Cream Shoppe. From June 1 to July 31, all Beachside Hospitality restaurants –including Sandbar Seafood + Spirits, the Beach House Waterfront Restaurant, 200
Gulf Drive N. in Bradenton Beach and Mar Vista Dockside Restaurant & Pub, 760 Broadway St. in Longboat Key – are offering teachers and
active school staff members who present a valid school ID with a free domestic draft beer, house wine or a single well liquor drink.
BEACHSIDE HOSPITALITY | SUBMITTED Sweet Willy’s Ice Cream Shoppe is located inside the Sandbar Seafood + Spirits restaurant in Anna Maria.
