It may look like the Everglades, but it’s a preserve just east of Anna Maria Island, where white pelicans are resting after
Welcome back, snowbirds!
Anna Maria honors veterans on Veterans Day Snowbirds back in town
Last year’s Veterans Day events were canceled because of Hurricanes Helene and Milton.
BY JOE HENDRICKS
SUN CORRESPONDENT | jhendricks@amisun.com
ANNA MARIA – Colder than usual weather didn’t chill the appreciation, attendance and enthusiasm for the city of Anna Maria’s Old Soldiers & Sailors Veterans Day parade and the postparade veterans’ recognition ceremony that followed at City Pier Park.
On Nov. 11, spectators of all ages gathered along Pine Avenue to watch the parade. Near City Pier Park, visiting western Michigan residents Ann Hayward, Brenda Manchester and Jill McIntyre shared a blanket while waiting for the parade to begin.
22
JOE HENDRICKS | SUN
Grand Marshal Darcie Duncan rode in a city vehicle driven by City Clerk Amber LaRowe, with Barbara Murphy and Grand Marshal Dan Murphy riding in back.
In front of Roser Church, young siblings Maggie, Charli and Millie were bundled up in blankets waiting to see friends and family members march by with the Manatee High School Junior ROTC.
long trip south
New Rod & Reel expected to open this week
Revenues generated at the new Rod & Reel restaurant will assist with the efforts to build a new Rod & Reel Pier in Anna Maria.
BY JOE HENDRICKS SUN CORRESPONDENT | jhendricks@amisun.com
HOLMES BEACH – If all goes according to plan, Oliver “Oli” Lemke will open The Rod & Reel restaurant in Holmes Beach on Friday, Nov. 21 at 8 a.m.
The Rod & Reel is located at 3246 East Bay Drive in the plaza space previously occupied by The Old Hamburg Schnitzelhaus. The new restaurant will be open daily from 8 a.m. to 9 p.m., serving breakfast, lunch and dinner and beer and wine, operating as an extension of
the original Rod & Reel Pier built in Anna Maria in 1947 and destroyed by the 2024 hurricanes. Lemke owns and operates a brewery and four restaurants in Germany. He bought The Rod & Reel Pier from fellow-German Mario
CORTEZ celebrates its military veterans at the Cortez Cultural Center. 3 SEASONAL EVENTS are heating up. 7, 10-12 A DOUBLEWIDE, Texas Christmas is parked at the Island Players. 12
their
from Canada.
JOE HENDRICKS | SUN Oli Lemke is ready for his next restaurant venture.
Cortez remembers those who served at Veterans Day tribute
BY LESLIE LAKE SUN CORRESPONDENT | llake@amisun.com
CORTEZ – Cortezians have a long history of serving in the military and that service was recognized during a Veterans Day commemoration on Nov. 10 at the Cortez Cultural Center.
Members of the Cortez Village Historical Society (CVHS) and friends met at the center for an informal coffee gathering and Veterans Day tribute.
“Today is really special. We’re here to acknowledge and honor our veterans and their service to the defense of our nation,” CVHS Vice President Paul Dryfoos said. “Cortez has a very strong tradition of national service, and many Cortez families have sent family members off to World War I, World War II, the Korean War, the Middle East; generation after generation of service.”
Dryfoos noted that CVHS is an historic organization.
“I wanted to point out our veterans wall, which has an honor roll for the first and second World Wars,” he said. “There is some really great memorabilia, including one of the uniforms which I understand belonged to a member of the Adams family.”
He then told the story of the Adams family, six brothers from Cortez who served during World War II, and were recognized in 1988 by the late Florida Gov. Lawton Chiles, who added a tribute to the brothers in the Congressional Record.
Dryfoos read some of Chiles’ narrative during the tribute: “Mr. President,
I would like to pay tribute today to the Adams family of Cortez, Florida. The reason I am calling attention to this one native Florida family is because all six of the brothers, William, Leon, Willis, Cleveland, Henry and Clyde, served overseas in the U.S. armed services at the same time during World War II.”
“Think about it,” Dryfoos said. “Six brothers serving very much on the front lines at the same time.”
Dryfoos told the stories of two of the brothers.
“Willis Howard Adams, who’s known as Snooks, he was the third son, he was the first one to enlist,” he said. “He enlisted in the Navy in 1941 and had a total of seven battle stars awarded on the various ships on which he served. After the war, Snooks returned to Cortez and went back into the family fishing business. Ultimately he went into a career in law enforcement, and was with the Manatee County Sheriff’s Department and was chief of police of Holmes Beach.”
“His brother Clyde, the youngest brother, joined the Army Air Force in 1942 and he flew 15 combat missions, but he was shot down on his 15th mission,” Dryfoos said. “He spent a year in a German POW camp and then he came back to Cortez. He re-enlisted and flew 15 more missions in the Korean War. This is the kind of grit and determination that we all know sons and daughters of Cortez have had through history.”
LESLIE LAKE | SUN
Cortez Village Historical Society Vice President Paul Dryfoos, left, addresses attendees at the Cortez Cultural Center during the Veterans Day commemoration.
ISLAND NEWS
IN BRIEF
Mayor, commissioner sworn in
After running unopposed in the fall election cycle, Bradenton Beach Mayor John Chappie and Ward 3 City Commissioner Ralph Cole were sworn in to their new terms on Nov. 17. City Clerk Terri Sanclemente conducted the ceremony. Chappie will serve another two-year term as mayor. Due to the previous re-numbering of the commission wards, Cole will serve a one-year term. Ward 1 Commissioner Debbie Scaccianoce was unable to attend the swearing in ceremony and was sworn in later that day. The vacant Ward 4 seat long held by Jan Vosburgh, who did not seek reelection, will be filled by commission appointment at a yet-to-be-determined date.
CRA meets Thursday
The Bradenton Beach Community Redevelopment Agency (CRA) will meet on Thursday, Nov. 20 at 9:30 a.m.
On the consent agenda is the approval of an invoice from Coastal Engineering Consultants Inc. for $24,646.25, approval of an invoice from Utility Consultants of Florida for $29,375, approval of an invoice from the Trask Daigneault law firm for $541.50, approval of an invoice from JM Underground Utilities LLC for $7,100, and approval of an invoice from Trimmers Holiday Decor for $40,941.10.
A CRA report is also on the agenda.
The meeting will be in the Katie Pierola Commission Chambers, 107 Gulf Drive N.
Commissioners begin search for city planner
The Bradenton Beach City Commission will discuss a Request for Proposals (RFP) for a city planner at its Thursday, Nov. 20 meeting at noon.
On the consent agenda is the cancellation of the Dec. 18 city commission meeting, approval of an invoice from the Trask Daigneault law firm for $1,225.50, approval of an invoice from Nennah Foundry for $2,096.02 for the emergency replacement of two stormwater grates and approval of an invoice from Integrated Solutions Consulting for $27,399.12.
Under new business is the waiver of a special permit fee of $75 for the Anna Maria Island Privateers Annual Christmas Processional on Dec. 13, approval of the Tree City USA annual recertification application, approval of Resolution 95-992 adopting city-wide mitigation strategies, approval of employee Thanksgiving and Christmas gift cards and a review request from Timeshare Vacations Inc. to refund hurricane damage fees of $5,113.
The meeting will be in the Katie Pierola Commission Chambers, 107 Gulf Drive N.
Scan this code with your smartphone to go there.
Suncoast Waterkeeper director has concerns about Palma Sola Bay water quality
Commercial horseback riding in the bay, sewage spills and other sources of bacteria have been identified in Palma Sola Bay.
BY LESLIE LAKE
SUN CORRESPONDENT | llake@amisun.com
BRADENTON - Dr. Abbey
Tyrna, executive director of Suncoast Waterkeeper (SCWK), spoke to the Palma Sola Scenic Highway committee on Nov. 12 about the water quality in Palma Sola Bay.
Tyrna presented a graph showing that from 2001-11 the water quality on the north side of the Palma Sola Causeway exceeded the acceptable threshold of state water quality standards 20 times. In 2024 alone, however, in that same body of water, the threshold was exceeded 20 times.
“So we went from 20 exceedances in an 11-year period to 20 exceedances last year, so the question was what was happening here,” Tyrna said.
Palma Sola DNA source tracking results show elevated levels of horse DNA several times between April 2024 and August 2025; human DNA in July 2024 and bird DNA in April, September and October 2025.
“So, what has changed? I don’t think the number of birds has changed because what I’ve learned is that birds are actually declining,” Tyrna said.
She said the best way to figure out what is happening is through DNA testing.
“What we can see is what’s in our water samples and is detectable has been horses, humans and birds, so what can we say is causing enterococci levels in Palma Sola Bay? We can say all of them,” Tyrna said.
”If you want to know how much humans matter, how much horses matter, that’s impossible to know. There are no tests for that right now. So, we can never get there, and we should never try. And all we can do is a qualitative analysis in a robust lab. We certainly can’t do much about birds, we can do something about humans and we can do something about horses.”
Enterococci normally inhabit the intestinal tract of humans and animals. The presence of enteric bacteria can indicate fecal pollution, which can come from stormwater runoff, pet and wildlife waste products and human sewage spills. If these bacteria are present in high concentrations in recreational waters and are ingested while swimming or enter the skin through a cut or sore, they may cause illness or infections, according to the SCWK website.
“According to studies conducted by the EPA, enterococci have a greater correlation with swimmingassociated gastrointestinal illness in marine and fresh waters than other bacterial indicator organisms, and are less likely to die off in saltwater. If an enterococci result exceeds 70 cells
per 100 milliliters of marine water sampled, then an advisory should be issued for the sampling site,” the SCWK website states.
SCWK conducts regular monitoring of bacterial levels at 11 area recreational sites. The Benchmark EnviroAnalytical lab examines the samples for enterococci. The results are posted weekly on Suncoast Waterkeeper social media feeds.
“When one use supersedes another use, we find that to be a problem. This is why we advocate for a permit and signage system,” Tyrna said. “Suncoast Waterkeeper’s goal is to clean up the water.”
Tyrna said one of the horse ride providers at Palma Sola Bay has taken a best management practice approach to cleanup by using a boat with a paddle that brings horse manure into a net and out of the water.
“Whether or not that’s going to reduce our readings remains to be seen,” Tyrna said.
Tyrna speculated that some of the human readings could be related to sewage and possibly derelict boats.
“You don’t find a pump-out boat going to the derelict vessels so it’s logical,” she said.
CINDY LANE | SUN
Commercial horseback riding in Palma Sola Bay has an environmental group concerned about fecal contamination of the water.
JOE HENDRICKS | SUN
Mayor John Chappie, far left, will serve another two-year term in office. Commissioner Ralph Cole will serve a one-year term in office.
FWC reminds boaters to watch out for manatees
BY LESLIE LAKE SUN CORRESPONDENT | llake@amisun.com
November is Manatee Awareness Month, when Florida’s manatees are starting their seasonal movements to warmer waters. The Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC) is reminding boaters to be mindful this time of year to watch for manatees when on the water.
“Manatees are highly dependent on safe and reliable warm-water sites to survive the winter,” FWC Manatee Management Program Coordinator Michelle Pasawicz said. “As water temperatures drop below 68 degrees Fahrenheit, Florida’s manatees seek refuge at springs, power plant discharge areas and other warm water sites where they’ll spend the winter until temperatures rise again in spring.”
You can better see manatees by wearing polarized glasses, going slow and abiding by all manatee protection zones. During colder months, seasonal manatee zones require boaters and personal watercraft users to reduce speed or avoid certain areas to prevent
collisions that can injure or kill manatees. Manatee protection zones are marked by waterway signs; maps of these zones are available online at MyFWC.com/MPZ.
According to FWC, “Boat strikes are a major threat to Florida manatees and FWC law enforcement officers patrol state waters, informing boaters of seasonal manatee speed zones and taking appropriate enforcement actions when necessary. Boaters and personal watercraft users are reminded to comply with the regulatory signs on waterways.”
Disturbing manatees at warm water sites can cause them to swim out of protected areas and into colder water and is illegal. Manatees are a protected species, and it is illegal to harass, feed, disturb or harm them.
If you see an injured, distressed, sick or dead manatee, report it to the FWC’s Wildlife Alert Hotline at 888-404-FWCC (3922) so that trained responders can assist. Do not try to physically handle an injured or sick manatee yourself, which can cause more harm to the animal and potentially put you at risk of serious injury.
Low tide exposes stored pier pilings
The tide was so low near the Anna Maria City Pier on Nov. 11 that some of the recently delivered concrete pier walkway pilings stored underwater on an offshore sandbar were fully visible and completely out of the water. Tampa Bay Marine Inc. will build the new walkway that will replace the previous walkway weakened by Hurricane Helene and destroyed by Hurricane Milton in 2024. Due to strong winds and rough surf on Nov. 10, the crew relocated their vessels to the safety of nearby Bimini Bay. When they returned later in the week, the crew began installing the turbidity curtains and temporary mooring pilings needed before the pile driving begins, which is expected to happen this week. The city’s contract with
Tampa Bay Marine calls for the $4.64 million walkway construction project to be completed by March 31. But because additional lighting, utility and other work will still be needed, Mayor Mark Short anticipates fully reopening the City Pier in the fall of 2026 at a total estimated cost of approximately $6.5 million.
JOE HENDRICKS | SUN
The low tide near the Anna Maria City Pier on Nov. 11 was much lower than usual.
JOE HENDRICKS | SUN
The concrete pier pilings formerly underwater sat out in the open on a sunny sandbar.
OPINION
The Anna Maria Island Sun Staff
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ANNA MARIA
10005 GULF DRIVE
FOR INFORMATION, CALL 941-708-6130
Visit www.cityofannamaria. com or contact city hall for more information.
Wednesday, Nov. 19, 11 a.m., Planning and Zoning Board meeting
BRADENTON BEACH
107 GULF DRIVE N.
FOR INFORMATION, CALL 941-778-1005
Visit www.cityofbradentonbeach.com or contact city hall for more information
Wednesday, Nov. 19, 1 p.m., Scenic WAVES Committee meeting
Thursday, Nov. 20, 9:30 a.m., Community Redevelopment Agency meeting
Thursday, Nov. 20, 12 p.m., City Commission meeting
ANNA MARIA ISLAND CHURCH SCHEDULES
EPISCOPAL CHURCH OF THE ANNUNCIATION
4408 Gulf Drive, Holmes Beach, Sunday service 9:15 a.m.
CROSSPOINTE FELLOWSHIP
8605 Gulf Drive, Holmes Beach, Sunday service 9 a.m.
HARVEY MEMORIAL COMMUNITY CHURCH
300 Church Ave., Bradenton Beach, Sunday service 9:15 a.m.
ROSER CHURCH
512 Pine Ave., Anna Maria, Sunday services 8:30 a.m. and 10 a.m.
ST. BERNARD CATHOLIC CHURCH
248 South Harbor Drive, Holmes Beach, Masses: Saturday, 4 p.m., Sunday 8:30 a.m. and 10:30 a.m., Monday through Friday 8:30 a.m.
HOLMES BEACH
5801 MARINA DRIVE
FOR INFORMATION, CALL 941-708-5800
Visit www.holmesbeachfl.org or contact city hall for more information.
Tuesday, Nov. 18, 2 p.m., City Commission meeting and swearing in ceremony
EVENTS
FRIDAY, NOV. 21
Anna Maria City Block Party, City Pier Park, 5-8 p.m.
SATURDAY, NOV. 22
Buoy decorative painting, Florida Maritime Museum, 4415 119th St. W., Cortez, 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. Tickets: floridamaritimemuseum.org/ Christmas on Bridge Street and Tree Lighting, Bridge Street, Bradenton Beach, 2-8 p.m.
SATURDAY, NOV. 28
Music on the Porch, Florida Maritime Museum, 4415 119th St. W., Cortez, 2-4 p.m., first and third Saturdays of the month
PARADE: Anna Maria honors veterans on Veterans Day
The skies were clear and sunny, the temperature was 48 degrees and a 12 mph northeast wind blew as the procession from city hall to City Pier Park began, with a quartet of Manatee County Sheriff’s Office deputies on motorcycles leading the way and performing some riding maneuvers as they went.
The deputies were followed by the Lakewood Ranch High School marching band that would also perform at the ceremony in the park. The Bayshore High School marching band, the Braden River High School band and the Southeast High School Marching ‘Noles also marched in the parade.
Anna Maria Mayor Mark Short and city commissioners Chris Arendt and Kathy Morgan-Johnson rode together in a city-owned low-speed vehicle Jeep driven by Code Enforcement Manager Dave DeZutter.
Because last year’s parade was canceled due to Hurricanes Helene and Milton, this year’s parade featured three grand marshals:
Army veteran John Fara, Army veteran and former Anna Maria mayor Dan Murphy and Duncan Real Estate owner Darcie Duncan.
Fara was supposed to serve as last year’s grand marshal and he traveled the parade route in a city-owned Jeep driven by Code Enforcement Officer Tom Collins. Murphy and Duncan are the city’s reigning co-citizens of the year. Accompanied by Murphy’s wife, Barbara, they traveled the parade route in the code enforcement department truck driven by City Clerk Amber LaRowe.
Bradenton Beach Mayor John
Chappie rode in a police vehicle driven by a Bradenton Beach Police officer and Holmes Beach Police Chief and Army veteran Bill Tokajer drove a police department ATV down the parade route.
A privately-owned green Jeep transported another group of veterans down Pine Avenue.
Army veteran and Holmes Beach Walgreens employee Lance Roy walked the parade route, as did a group of youngsters and employees from The Center of Anna Maria Island, a group representing the Girl Scouts of Gulf Coast Florida and four members of the Tampa Bay
Buccaneers Cheerleaders Alumni.
The parade vehicles included the sheriff’s office airboat, a West Manatee Fire Rescue fire engine and a Waste Management truck. Holmes Beach-based SeaBreeze Vacation entered two vehicles in the parade and three mounted sheriff’s deputies on horses brought up the rear of the parade.
After the parade, the Lakewood Ranch High School band members took their seats in a large tent that stood where the recently removed Anna Maria Post Office trailer stood for several months after the hurricanes. Many parade attendees
and veterans took their seats under the City Pier Park shade sail structure.
Before presiding over his first Veterans Day ceremony, Mayor Short said of the parade: “It was a little chilly, but the turnout was great for this very special occasion.”
The city-hosted Veterans Day parade and recognition ceremony began several years ago, during Murphy’s 10-year tenure as mayor.
“Putting on an event like this is a big responsibility and a lot of hard work,” Murphy said before the
JOE HENDRICKS | SUN
Jackson Jeffries presented Army veterans, left, and Marine Corps veterans, right, with the city's commemorative medals.
JOE HENDRICKS | SUN
Holmes Beach Walgreens employee and Army veteran Lance Roy walked the parade route.
PARADE: Anna Maria honors veterans on Veterans Day
ceremony began. “Mark and his staff have done a truly remarkable job. I’m so pleased that they’re carrying on this tradition that has become part of the fiber of the city of Anna Maria.”
Accompanied by his wife, Geraldine, Col. Fernand Verrier said he first served in the Vietnam War from 1962-65 stationed in San Diego as a member of the Navy. He then went to college, earned a degree, enlisted in the Army as a commissioned officer and later retired as a colonel. During his time in the military, he served in Panama, the first Gulf War, Bosnia and at the U.S. Embassy in Yemen.
After Short’s opening remarks, Roser Memorial Community Church Senior Pastor Dirk Rodgers offered the invocation.
“May we treasure this freedom. May we learn to love, respect and support one another in honor of their service,” Rodgers said in appreciation of those who serve and served their country.
The Manatee High School Junior ROTC Color Guard presented the colors, accompanied by Anna Maria Island Concert Chorus & Orchestra drummer Scott Blum.
Directed by Dr. John Wilkerson, the seated marching band performed “The Star-Spangled Banner;” followed by the children from The Center leading the recital of the Pledge of Allegiance.
The mayor introduced the three grand marshals and recognized the elected officials in attendance. He then called forward the spouses and significant others of those who served in the military and city staff members presented each of them with a yellow rose.
JOE HENDRICKS | SUN
Army and Navy veteran Col. Fernand Verrier attended the ceremony with his wife, Geraldine.
The mayor then called forward the veterans according to the military branch in which they served: Army, Air Force, Navy, Marine Corps and Coast Guard – and Anna Maria Executive Assistant Barbara Jeffries’ 8-year-old son, Jackson, presented each veteran with a commemorative medal.
After being recognized as the only Coast Guard veteran in attendance, Paul Schloesser said, "This is my ninth year. I love it."
Short also recognized the U.S. Space Force and the Allied/NATO Forces that had no veteran representatives on hand.
“Thank you again to all our veterans. We appreciate your service and everything you did for us and this country,” the mayor said.
The band then played a medley of military theme songs and the seated veterans were asked to stand to be recognized one more time while their branch's song played. Wilkerson then called the drumline forward to lead the band through a few more musical numbers that included an instrumental version of Ozzy Osbourne’s “Crazy Train.”
Short then called forward and recognized the many city staff members who helped organize and host the
VETERANS: Cortez remembers those who served at Veterans Day tribute
FROM PAGE 3
Longtime Cortez resident Carol Kio-Green reflected on the service of Cortez residents during World War II.
“There were at least 67 members of Cortez who served,” she said. “In a community with a population of around 500, that’s over 10% of the population left to go into service. That was a substantial loss of the people who were fishing.
“My mother used to say she had 20 first cousins in the service and she never bothered to sit and count the second cousins and cousins once removed; it was a huge number for such a small community,” Kio-Green said.
Ardeth Black spoke about her husband, Greg, a Vietnam veteran.
JOE HENDRICKS | SUN
The Lakewood Ranch High School marching band, top, is a regular participant in the Old Soldiers & Sailors parade. The Bayshore High School band, middle, also marched in the parade. The Braden River High School band, bottom, marched to the beat of its drummers.
Veterans Day events.
“This event could not have been done without everybody you see standing beside me. Thank you to our city staff for yet another successful Veterans Day event,” Short said.
The mayor also thanked the sheriff’s office and everyone else who assisted with the parade and the recognition ceremony.
After the ceremony, Short said, “It was a great ceremony. It was nice to recognize our veterans that are so important to all of us.”
“He was shot in the leg in a swamp mission. He is surviving under the effects of Agent Orange and is doing his best,” she said. “In honor of Greg, I’m going to make a donation to the Cultural Center. I would encourage others to do the same. It’s for Greg and the Vietnam vets.”
“My dad was lieutenant commander in the Navy on the USS Enterprise, and he got shot down overseas,” Sharon Otis said. “When you see the movies, that’s him. We knew the stories were going to die with him, because you know they won’t talk about it. My son got a lot of information before he died in ‘94.”
Allen Garner grew up in Cortez and knew the men who had served in World War II, including his father.
“It was basically every young man in Cortez,” Garner said. “The one thing I know about all those guys was they’d always share the funny stories and the interesting things that happened. None of them liked to talk about the dark side of the war.”
Joe Egolf, a veteran, said, “The appropriate response when someone says, ‘Thank you for your service’ is, ‘You were worth it.’ ”
City Block Party on Friday
The city of Anna Maria will host its next monthly City Block Party at City Pier Park on Friday, Nov. 21 from 5-8 p.m. Attendees to this free, city-hosted event are invited to bring their own beverages, a dish, snack or dessert to share with others and their own lawn chairs. The city will provide free hot dogs grilled by an elected official or city staff member. Playing rockabilly and rock‘n’-roll from the 1950s, 1960s and beyond, Ted Stevens and The Doo-Shots will provide the live music. There won’t be a block party in December, but the monthly parties will resume in 2026 on Jan. 9, Feb. 13, March 13 and April 10. The monthly block parties are part of ongoing efforts by Mayor Mark Short and the city commissioners to foster a sense of community in Anna Maria, welcoming and connecting Anna Maria residents, Island residents and visitors alike.
CITY OF ANNA MARIA | SUBMITTED
AMI Garden Club hosts plant sale
The Anna Maria Island Garden Club hosted its annual fundraising plant sale at Roser Church on Nov. 14. The fundraising efforts also included a bake sale and the raffling of gift baskets and gift cards donated by local businesses. Garden Club members donated and sold the plants and baked goods. They also painted the decorative wine bottles, wine glasses and ceramic pots offered for sale. The plant offerings included native and “Florida friendly” plants, homegrown plant pots, hanging plants, herbs, poinsettias, flowering plants and much more. The proceeds will help fund the garden club’s Islandwide landscaping and beautification
projects. Inside Fellowship Hall, master beekeeper and local honey vendor Kevin Lausman displayed an enclosed bee colony made of wood and glass. Outside the hall, the Ellenton-based EarthBox company displayed planter boxes, plants and other plant-related offerings. Club member Jean Murray led the organizational efforts that she said began about four or five months ago. “The turnout was wonderful,” she said about an hour into the four-hour event that started at 9 a.m.
Settlers Bread sales resume
The Anna Maria Island Historical Society’s weekly Settlers Bread sales have resumed for the season. Baked by museum and historical society volunteers for the past 25 years, a limited number of homemade Settlers Bread loaves are available each Tuesday starting at 10 a.m. while supplies last at the Anna Maria Island Historical Museum, 402 Pine Ave. in Anna Maria. Made with four simple ingredients – white flour, sugar, salt and yeast – Settlers Bread is baked using a recipe an early settler would have used. The loaves sell fast and the proceeds from the bread sales support The Pat Copeland Scholarship Fund. Offering free admission, the museum is open Tuesdays-Saturdays from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. in November and December. In January, the seasonal museum hours expand
Sundown Get Down’s Christmas on Bridge Street and tree lighting celebration
to 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. The museum is closed on Sundays and Mondays. Visit the museum and the Historical Society online at www.amihs.org.
will be on Saturday, Nov. 22 from 2-8 p.m., with the tree lighting at sundown in the Bradenton Beach Post Office parking lot and featuring live music, Santa sightings and special merchant promotions.
‘It Happened One Night’ playing at Island Branch Library
The Island Branch Library, 5701 Marina Drive, Holmes Beach hosts free Art House Cinema film screenings in the library meeting room on Monday evenings. “Discover the magic of independent film with a weekly movie series showcasing acclaimed and thought-provoking films from around the world,” according to the Manatee County Library website. “Each screening features a handpicked selection of art house, experimental or award-
winning cinema – perfect for film lovers seeking something off the beaten path.” The Monday, Nov. 24 film screening is “It Happened One Night.”
Directed by Frank Capra and staring Clark Cable and Claudette Colbert, the 1934 Academy Award-winning romantic comedy sprinkles wit and social commentary in the tale of a runaway heiress who crosses paths with a down-on-his-luck reporter and the crosscountry misadventures that ensue. Future Art House Cinema screenings can be found at the www. manateelibrary.libcal. com/calendar/events web page using the “Island Branch Library” dropdown menu.
The AMI Garden Club plant sale featured plants of many colors and varieties.
JOE HENDRICKS | SUN
AMIHS | SUBMITTED
Settlers Bread baker Patti Bailey, left, displays her homemade bread, joined by museum docent Evelyn Hoskins.
SUBMITTED
Island Players celebrate ‘A Doublewide, Texas Christmas’
The comedic storyline touches on the real-life need to protect home rule and preserve self-governance.
BY JOE HENDRICKS SUN CORRESPONDENT | jhendricks@amisun.com
ANNA MARIA – The Island Players’ hurricanedelayed production of “A Doublewide, Texas Christmas” opened on Nov. 13, and it was worth the wait.
The performances will continue through Sunday, Nov. 23.
Written by Jessie Jones, Nicholas Hope and Jamie Wooten and premiered in Texas in 2017, the Island Players production is co-produced by the Off Stage Ladies of The Island Players and directed by Kelly Wynn Woodland.
The southern-fried comedy tells the laugh-outloud tale of a 10-resident mobile home community that seeks county commission approval to be officially incorporated as the independent town of Doublewide, Texas. And as Christmas approaches, they’re running out of time to meet the county’s make-or-break, year-end deadline to complete the ever-shifting incorporation process.
In a funny and entertaining manner, “A Doublewide, Texas Christmas” explores small town economics and politics, the fight for home rule rights and the threat of consolidation – issues that hit close to home on Anna Maria Island due to the real-life challenges the three Island cities have faced from state legislators and county commissioners in recent years.
Like the fictional inhabitants of Doublewide, the Island Players production of “A Doublewide, Texas Christmas” is an exhibition of persistence and resilience. The play was first cast in September 2024 but production shut down after two rehearsals due to the damage Hurricanes Helene and Milton inflicted on the
Island – while sparing the city-owned performing arts theater of any major damage.
Last month, the entire cast resumed the long-delayed rehearsals that led to their triumphant opening night performance.
“The cast is fantastic,” Woodland said when discussing the play. “This is the same cast from a year ago.
They stayed in touch with each other and built those relationships that come across on the stage. It’s a play about relationships and people taking up for each other and building a
community; and they have done that.
“It’s a very funny play and it’s funny because the characters are funny people with large personalities. The costumes are a hoot. There’s over 100 costume pieces and there’s some specialty costumes and specialty props that are fun and funny,” she said.
“There’s a lot of unique and interesting set pieces too,” Woodland said of the primary setting in the mayor’s doublewide trailer home that’s also Doublewide’s town hall.
SEE PLAYERS, PAGE 19
WHERE‛S YOUR COMFORT ZONE?
JOE HENDRICKS | SUN
The cast of “A Doublewide, Texas Christmas” takes a well-earned and long-awaited bow.
BEACH BEAT
BRADENTON BEACH
Nov. 4, 10:42 p.m., 2500 block Avenue C. Battery. Police were dispatched to a report of a male subject acting aggressively. While interacting with the 51-yearold man from Grand Island, NY, police reported he stated he had been drinking. He had been renting the house with his family and another couple, and when one of the people in the group asked him to quiet down, he reportedly became angry and threw a mixed drink. The man reportedly stated, “I’m going to put (the man who asked him to quiet down) body in a trunk when we get back to New York.” Police said the statements were made in the presence of juveniles. He was placed into custody, brought to the Bradenton Beach Police Department for paperwork and then transported to the Manatee County Jail.
HOLMES BEACH
Nov. 4, 10:13 p.m., Manatee Avenue. Battery on law enforcement officer and resisting an officer with violence. Officers conducted a traffic stop at the Kingfish Boat ramp. The driver reportedly told police he knew his driver’s license was suspended but had an appointment to have it reinstated the following day. When informed that he was going to be arrested, the man was allowed back into the vehicle so he could retrieve his cell phone and call someone to pick up his juvenile passenger son. According to police reports, the man became agitated and loudly stated he was going to jail. The arresting officer grabbed the man’s arm to place him into custody at which point the man swung his arm and elbow, pushing the officer away. Police pulled a taser and gave commands to get on the ground, and the man complied. Police reports state the man has prior arrests for assault on law enforcement officers and aggravated assault and had a large fixed-blade knife within arm’s reach in the driver door compartment. He was charged with battery on a law enforcement officer, resisting an officer with violence and driving with a suspended driver’s license, second or subsequent offense. He was transported to the Holmes Beach Police Department and then to the Manatee County Jail. The juvenile was picked up by a family member.
Nov. 9, 3 p.m., 4000 block of Gulf Drive. Grand theft. The victim told police he had met a male and two females at a restaurant in Sarasota and got into a vehicle with them and drove to Manatee Beach. The four arrived at the beach around 3 a.m., and he put his phone and wallet on a picnic table before participating in foot races with the three individuals. When he returned, the phone was missing. After an unsuccessful search for the phone, one of the women offered to order an Uber ride home. He left the area around 5 a.m. and arrived home at 6 a.m. Upon returning home, the man and his father began deactivating his phone and credit cards. At around 7:30 a.m. he received a notification indicating that $2,000 had been used to purchase Bitcoin. His Apple credit card and Discover card were used at several stores in Tampa.
FISH Preserve gets new signs
The first of what will be many orientation signs at the 98-acre FISH (Florida Institute for Saltwater Heritage) Preserve was installed recently at the east end of the Florida Maritime Museum parking lot. The sign was created by landscape architect Allen Garner, who is responsible for constructing many of the improvements at the preserve, including bridges and a picnic pavilion.
HOLIDAY ISLANDSHOPPINGSTYLE
LESLIE LAKE | SUN
PLAYERS: Celebrate ‘A Doublewide, Texas Christmas’
The mobile home/town hall interior includes a Christmas wreath made from a real Model-T tire, a mosaic painting of Elvis and a portrait of beloved Texan and presidential first lady, “Lady Bird” Johnson.
“I think the audiences are really going to like the play. It’s pretty wild and it moves pretty fast. It’s fun and heartwarming. I hope they feel the love and camaraderie between the characters and how people with extremely different personalities can come together to achieve a goal that benefits all of them,” Woodland said.
THE PLAYERS
The story begins with Big Ethel Satterwhite (played by Laura Morales) entering from the side of the stage and standing in front of the yet-to-be-opened curtain while addressing the audience that finds itself playing the role of the residents of the Stairway to Heaven retirement village where Big Ethel works. Ethel informs the retirement home residents of the potential gastrological, family and romantic perils the approaching holidays may bring. Throughout the performance, the comedic action extends beyond the confines of
the stage and out into the theater itself.
Sue Belvo plays Georgia Dean Rudd, a middle-aged woman who’s worked at Bronco Betty’s Buffeteria restaurant since she was 16. She hopes to one day own the local eatery and she still pines over Nash Sloggett, her “one that got away.”
Sadie Palmer plays Lark Barken, a recently widowed young woman who’s now raising her infant daughter, Arden Rose, alone. Lark also longs for Nash, who happens to be her long-lost father she’s never met.
Rick Kopp plays Haywood Sloggett, a widower who got a second chance in Doublewide despite his past undesirable behavior that included breaking up his son Nash’s blossoming romance with young
Georgia Dean. Haywood hopes to bring Nash home for Christmas to help make things right.
Morgan Powis plays Joveeta Crumpler, the determined mayor of Doublewide, who’s doing everything in her power to overcome the county commission’s ever-changing, self-serving efforts to avoid incorporating the town.
Catherine Penta plays Caprice Crumpler, Joveeta’s drink-sneaking, attentionseeking mother who still clings to the sliver of glory she found as a small town, cable TV commercial actress.
Francesca Mendolia plays Patsy Price, Haywood’s bitter and downtrodden sister who arrives in Doublewide after being hoodwinked out of her money and shamed by her own behavior in Tugaloo – the neighboring town that hopes to annex Doublewide into its municipal tax base.
Mike Lush plays Norwayne “Baby” Crumpler – Joveeta’s enthusiastic, energetic and dimwitted brother who serves as Doublewide’s police chief, fire chief and cleaner of septic tanks.
Mark Woodland plays the elusive Nash Sloggett, whose uncertain return to Doublewide is desired by many.
In their collective efforts to incorporate their town, the Doublewide inhabitants
embark on a series of escapades as they try to increase the town’s revenues and raise the town’s profile as a tourist destination by developing a Texas-inspired, vegetablebased roadside attraction. At the last minute, an elusive, double-crossing county commissioner informs the residents that they must double Doublewide’s population as yet another stipulation of incorporation.
The desperate residents enter the town in a countywide, Texas-themed nativity scene contest that takes a disastrous turn that further impedes the path to incorporation. But despite the never-ending challenges and selfinflicted mishaps, the Doublewide residents never lose sight of their shared goal to make their hometown a bonafide Texas town.
TICKET SALES
Tickets for “A Doublewide, Texas Christmas” are $20-$30 dollars and can be purchased online at www.theislandplayers. org. After receiving your digital tickets by email, you can use your phone to display them when entering the theater. Digital tickets can also be printed at home in advance. Those who prefer traditional preprinted tickets can purchase them at the box office beginning an hour before showtime or during normal box office hours, Monday through Saturday, 9 a.m. to 1 p.m.
JOE HENDRICKS | SUN
“A Doublewide, Texas Christmas” is a fast-moving play.
Fall is in the air
all is in the air. Most of our windows and doors are open and we’ve turned off the A/C, the time change has turned the lights on earlier and made the afternoon light fade all too soon. The changes ushered in by cooler temperatures and shorter days produce some of the best nearshore and offshore piscatorial pursuits. As water temperatures drop, schools of bait migrate inshore with pelagic species like kingfish, Spanish mackerel, false albacore (little tunny), cobia and tripletail hot on their tails. Now is a great time to have tackle in order, a well-stocked rod rack and a time to keep a keen eye cast towards the sky for diving birds and breaking fish when you’re on the water. All these fall species will take live bait, lures or flies and can be caught on
spinning, bait casting or fly tackle. Except for larger king mackerel and cobia most can be landed with light tackle, which adds to the challenge.
Rigging will depend on the species you’re targeting. Since it’s possible to encounter so many different species in a single outing, multiple outfits are a good idea. Rigging options include wire, monofilament, long shanked hooks or a combination. It’s possible to catch a kingfish or Spanish mackerel without wire but your odds aren’t good. Most species shy from wire, especial ly in clear water and when the sun is high. That’s the time to switch to a long shank hook or a heavy (60 pound) monofilament leader. Even then it’s possible to get cut off, but the action can more than make up for the possibility.
When using wire, an 8- to 12-inch trace can be tied to monofilament using an Albright Special knot (best) or a swivel. If you use a swivel, use black as opposed to a silver one to prevent fish from mistaking it for forage. American Fishing Wire and Orvis make an extremely flexible wire that can be knotted to your lure, hook or fly like
monofilament; it also provides greater flexibility and less stretch than monofilament. Umpqua makes a product that’s ideal for fly anglers. Their Re-Twistable Haywire Twist wire is reusable and will allow you to change flies in a snap. This is the quickest and most painless system to rig wire for
toothy fish. It’s safe to switch to wire under low light conditions like early morning, overcast days and late in the day.
One of the most effective ways to find schooling fish in the fall is to look for surface action and diving birds in the inshore Gulf waters. But don’t assume fish aren’t present if there are no outward signs of them. Predators can often be found around structure, reefs and wrecks that attract bait.
When you find feeding fish, you can approach them by trolling, drifting or with the use of a trolling motor. Whatever method you employ, never let your boat pass through or get too close to the action. With more and more boats and anglers pursuing feeding fish, they are likely to sound and move away. The best bet is to stay outside the action but within casting distance. If trolling, make wide turns so only your lures pass through the action.
Live bait anglers target schooling fish in several ways. By anchoring upcurrent from a likely area they may deploy a chum bag and then toss wounded live baits to draw fish into casting range. This can be an extremely effective method. Those that prefer artificial lures find spoons particularly effective as well as jigs like the DOA CAL or the Berkley Gulp.
bait off Anna Maria Island.
RUSTY CHINNIS
ROD & REEL: New location expected to open this week
Schoenfelder and closed that sale on Nov. 21, 2023. He opened his first German-based brew pub on Nov. 21, 1999.
WHAT’S OLD IS NEW
The Rod & Reel in Holmes Beach is intended to bring back memories and continue the legacy of the original pier in Anna Maria. The revenues generated at the new restaurant will help fund the hoped-for construction of a new Rod & Reel Pier.
On Nov. 14, Lemke and Manager Adina Vasquez provided The Sun with a tour of the newlyrenovated restaurant space that was nearly complete.
“We built it to remind people of the pier. We want people, as they come in, to have the impression as if they were on the pier,” Lemke said.
Painted by the local artist and muralist Chad “Cheeta” Ruis, a large mural covers the dining room wall to the right of the front door. The mural depicts
the view of the pier and shoreline previously seen from the far end of the pier.
“If you look to your right, you’re looking toward the gate and the Island,” Lemke said of the mural that includes images of a hammerhead shark, manatees, a pelican flying overhead and people sitting on the pier benches – including now-retired longtime Rod & Reel Pier Manager Dave Cochran.
“He’s still a part of it,” Vasquez said of Cochran’s inclusion in the mural.
“It was really amazing how he did it,” Lemke said of Cheeta’s artwork.
a live webcam view of the Tampa Bay – as if you’re sitting in the old restaurant or bar looking out toward the Sunshine Skyway Bridge.
“You look out the window and you see the bay,” Lemke said of the intended illusion.
The iconic wooden Rod & Reel Pier sign now hangs above the Lshaped bar and several engraved wooden planks recovered from the onshore debris field hang above the webcam screens.
Vasquez said many Rod & Reel artifacts were recovered by the Ross Built construction crew that already had a job site or two along
“They saved a bunch of stuff,” Vasquez said.
Near the front door is the old fishing rod holder that holds fishing rods recovered from the debris field.
A replica of a large hammerhead shark hangs on one wall and a grouper replica hangs on another. While pointing to the grouper, Lemke said grouper will continue to be a fixture of the Rod & Reel Pier menu that’s not expected to change much.
Lemke noted the interior paint colors are the same as the original location and the old restaurant
waiting bench sits near the front door. The hallway walls leading to the restrooms are covered with old photos of the pier and the people who visited it during the past several decades.
Surfboard artwork is attached to the swinging doors that lead to the new kitchen that’s stocked with all new equipment.
Lemke said he originally envisioned doing minor renovations to the existing restaurant space but he soon realized a more elaborate renovation was needed.
As Lemke spoke, Bimini Bay Construction employee Tom Mineo applied a coat of clear epoxy resin to the sanded down bar top that will feature embedded photos.
“Tom’s been working hard putting this all together,” Vasquez said. She and Lemke thanked Bimini Bay Construction owner Steve Bergquist for all his help.
Vasquez said many of the previous Rod & Reel Pier servers are returning and she’s still looking to hire some additional
JOE HENDRICKS | SUN
The iconic Rod & Reel Pier sign now hangs above the bar. Tom Mineo, right, applied clear epoxy resin to the bar top.
REAL ESTATE
Everything old is new again
How much faith do you have in the Federal Reserve continuing to cut rates? It’s not often we believe what our government tells us, but this time, there is a fair amount of faith among borrowers. In the meantime, while we’re waiting for the Feds to make their decisions, buyers are looking at loans that may be a little risky but will also be less expensive. Adjustable-Rate Mortgages (ARMs) were popular when rates were high but fell out of favor when rates started to fall. ARMs are initially cheaper, but they reset their rate usually after three to 10 years. This will increase the monthly payment for the borrowers, who need to make sure they will have the income to adjust to the higher rate.
Castles in the Sand
initial fixed rate period in years and “1” represents the frequency of the rate adjustment.
As of Nov. 6, the average rate for a 30-year fixed rate mortgage was 6.22%. The average rate during this time for an ARM was 5.55% for a 5/1 ARM; “5” represents the length of the
Buyers are anxious for affordable monthly payments as well as qualifying for homes in this market, which have increased more than 50% since 2019. They also don’t want to wait any longer to get into a home, therefore, the ARM has more appeal than ever. Mortgage rates generally tend to track government borrowing costs, but ARMs are more in line with short-term rates while fixed-rate mortgages are more in line with 10-year Treasury yields. This is why when the Feds lower
their rate, it does not always translate into a lower mortgage rate immediately. Confusing, yes, but if you work with a competent mortgage broker or lender, it will be easily explained. Because of tighter lending standards, ARMs are less risky today than back in 2004 when buyers were looking at their initial fixed-rate only, without considering if they could afford the higher rate. When the rates adjusted, many found they couldn’t afford the extra monthly payment and were facing foreclosure. Today, lenders vet buyers more carefully to determine if they can afford the larger monthly payment when the mortgage resets at a higher rate.
Adjustable-rate mortgages work well for buyers who plan to sell within the initial fixed-rate period or are confident that their financial situation will cover an increase in monthly payments. They are also rolling the
dice that rates will go down during the initial period, and they could come out ahead when the adjustment hits.
Don’t forget the importance of your credit score and how it affects your mortgage rate. A credit score will determine whether you qualify for a mortgage and the interest rate you’ll be offered. The higher the credit score, the lower the interest rate you’ll qualify for. A score of 620 is a “fair” rating, not great. However, a credit score of 740 or higher will typically be considered to be in very good standing and can usually qualify for better rates.
There is a belief in the homebuying community that mortgage rates will continue to go down over the next several years. If this turns out to be true, we could be looking at a more advantageous real estate market going forward, and a lot of happy home buyers.
LOUISE BOLGER
ISLAND SPORTS
Key Royale Club celebrates Marine Corps birthday
On Nov. 10, the Key Royale Golf Club celebrated the U.S. Marine Corps' 250th birthday. More than 60 members took this special occasion to honor and recognize club member Ret. Staff Sgt. Dale Hudson, center, of the U.S. Marine Corps at the special age of 96 years young. This day became very special for Dale and the club members when Lt. Col. Shannon Potts, right, and Major Brian Watkins, left, stationed with the U.S. Marine Force Central Command Center at MacDill Air Force Base, Tampa, joined the celebration honoring Dale and the Marine Corps’birthday. The traditional birthday cake was cut and served by all three Marines to the club members along with appetizers and refreshments.
Hawks victorious
Two teams met in the final on Nov. 12 after each went 3-0 during pool play at Anna Maria Horseshoes. Bob Hawks ended up in the winner's circle after beating Bob Lee and Gary Howcroft 21-13. On Nov. 15, Hawks was looking to make it two in a row as the walker. He drew the bye into the final and watched the two other undefeated teams battle it out for a spot in the final. Lee and Gersey Fernandes shut down Tom Skoloda and Dom Livedori 22-1. Hawks was leading 20-19 when Fernandes hit a doubleringer, giving Lee and himself a 25-20 victory in the championship.
A4657135/
KEY ROYALE GOLF CLUB | SUBMITTED ANNA MARIA HORSESHOES | SUBMITTED
OBITUARIES
Margaret Carlisle Chapman
Margaret Carlisle Chapman, of Anna Maria, Florida, died on Nov. 4, 2025 at the age of 101.
Born on March 2, 1924, the only child of Paul and Norene Carlisle, Margaret grew up in Niagara Falls, New York, and graduated from the University of Michigan.
She married Forrest Chapman in 1947. Through his work with the DuPont company, they lived in Bogota, Colombia and San Juan, Puerto Rico, before returning to Wilmington, Delaware in 1965.
Margaret’s parents retired to Anna Maria in 1950 and bought the Anna Maria Motel, which was the first motel on the Island. Paul was elected mayor of Anna Maria.
In 1980, Margaret retired to Anna Maria and continued to run the motel after her parents passed away. She remodeled the motel in the early 1980s and finally sold it in 1989.
Besides running the motel business, Margaret was an active volunteer at the Island Chamber of Commerce and the Anna Maria Island Historical Society. She was a proud member of the Kappa Alpha Theta women’s fraternity, an inactive member of the Daughters of the American Revolution, and a member of Roser Memorial Church.
Margaret’s family will always cherish the many memories we have of vacationing on the
Island. Four generations enjoyed adventures both at the motel, and later at her precious little house on Bean Point.
Margaret is survived by her daughter, Sherry (Ralph) Grizzel, of Hockessin, Delaware, daughter, Chris (Dee), of Bradenton, Florida, son, Jeff, of Elkton, Maryland, and son, Scott (Lesli), of Atlanta, Georgia; and several grandchildren and great grandchildren.
In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Wildlife Inc., 2207 Avenue B, Bradenton Beach, FL 34217, or Anna Maria Island Turtle Watch, P.O. Box 1114, Holmes Beach, FL 34218.
Brown & Sons Funeral Homes & Crematory 43rd Street Chapel, 604 43rd St. W., Bradenton, FL 34209, is in charge of arrangements. Services and burial will be private.
FUN IN THE SUN
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GARAGE SALE
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HOME IMPROVEMENTS
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HURRICANE DAMAGE?
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BUSINESS & SERVICE DIRECTORY
‘Kingfish Boat Ramp Murders’ author to speak at library
Local author Alan Cross will discuss his latest book, “Tales From the Island: The Kingfish Boat Ramp Murders” on Saturday, Nov. 22 from 10 a.m. to noon in the Island Branch Library reading room. Cross will discuss how and why he researched and investigated the unsolved murders that occurred near the Kingfish Boat Ramp in Holmes Beach on Aug. 1, 1980. The 45th anniversary of the horrific crime that made national news headlines was later featured on the Unsolved Mysteries television show. Co-sponsored by the Three Island Monkeys gift shop, admission to the author’s talk and book
signing event is free. The Island Branch Library is located at 5701 Marina Drive in Holmes Beach.
PIER REPLACEMENT
Lemke has an engineering and permitting consultant assisting him with the ongoing permitting process for the intended construction of a new Rod & Reel Pier.
“We’re still working on that permitting process,” he said. “We’re on our way, but our focus right now is getting this up and running. Season’s coming and we want to earn some money to contribute to replacing the pier. We’re going to bring sufficient funds from Germany and we’re talking to some banks too. That’s the plan and we’ll keep our fingers crossed.
“We knew it would take a long time to rebuild. How do we continue the legacy without the pier? How do we keep the community attached? How do we create jobs for the people that were working there?” he said.
The old Rod & Reel Pier bar was a gathering place where the regulars caught up on the local news and gossip while enjoying cold beers – and Lemke hopes that tradition continues.
“It’ll be an attractive place to drink a couple beers and eat good food,” he said. “Come on in. Every meal counts and we’re going have shirts that say that. Help us keep the legacy alive and help us rebuild the pier.”
JOE HENDRICKS | SUN
Rod & Reel owner Oliver “Oli” Lemke and Manager Adina Vasquez with the mural pained by Cheeta.
JOE HENDRICKS | SUN
Alan Cross released “Tales From the Island: The Kingfish Boat Ramp Murders” on Aug. 1.
