The Rod & Reel Pier was damaged but not destroyed by Hurricane Helene. The hurricane-damaged City Pier (inset) on Oct. 10, 2024. More hurricane anniversary coverage, Page 6, 9, 16, 18.
Bradenton Beach resident prepared after 2024 storms
BY LESLIE LAKE
SUN CORRESPONDENT | llake@amisun.com
BRADENTON BEACH – Thirty two-year Gulf Drive resident Lynne Budzinski did not leave her home during the 2024 hurricanes, but this year she is well-prepared to do so if necessary. Budzinski, who has five parrots at her home, has their transport cages ready to go in the event of a future evacuation.
“Here’s something people need to think about. Evacuating for a storm is not going to visit friends for a day or two,” Budzinski said. “You go because you think you may have nothing left when you come back. If you think you won’t have anything left, you have to take what you need to get by for at least a month or so. For them (the parrots) that means the big cages.” She said she began getting ready
in August, by constructing smaller hurricane transport cages. The larger cages will be disassembled for transport and then reassembled.
“So, once they go in those little cages I have to come in here and take these apart and they have to go out also, that’s a day,” Budzinski said. “I have a place in town I can go. It would be me and five birds. I can’t take the larger birds in their big cages. If a storm comes, I have to clear my van out to get the birds and their cages in there.”
“I can do an evacuation by myself,” she said. “You have four or five days max to get it all done.”
REFLECTIONS ON 2024 STORMS
“You know how they say the sound of running water is soothing? Not when it’s going by your window,” she said.
2024 hurricanes revisited; two piers remain closed
A year after Hurricanes Helene and Milton destroyed the Rod & Reel Pier and the Anna Maria City Pier, both remain closed.
BY JOE HENDRICKS SUN CORRESPONDENT | jhendricks@amisun.com
ANNA MARIA – One year ago, Hurricanes Helene and Milton inundated Anna Maria Island, destroying two iconic piers, leaving only the Bradenton Beach pier standing.
On Sept. 26, Helene inflicted significant damage on the privately-owned, wooden Rod & Reel Pier and the two-story restaurant and bar building at the end of the pier. Helene stripped the pier of its wooden planks and wreaked havoc on utility lines that ran from the shoreline to the pier building, also damaged in the storm. The old wooden pier was badly damaged but remained standing.
SEE HURRICANES, PAGE 19
Perry retires as Bradenton Beach city attorney
Ricinda Perry made her retirement announcement at a commission meeting two days after commissioners met to evaluate her performance. She said she was planning her retirement since 2024.
BY LESLIE LAKE SUN CORRESPONDENT | llake@amisun.com
BRADENTON BEACH - Ricinda
Perry’s 21-year tenure as Bradenton Beach city attorney came to an end on Sept. 18 when she announced her immediate retirement at a city commission meeting. She made the announcement two days after city commissioners met to evaluate her performance following allegations that she had named Drift-In owner Derek Williams as the source of a Florida Department of Environ-
When announcing her retirement, City Attorney Ricinda Perry read aloud a five-page statement she prepared.
mental Protection (FDEP) complaint against a neighboring business, the Anna Maria Oyster Bar (AMOB). In response to Williams’ public records request, FDEP confirmed that
SEE PERRY, PAGE 17
JOE HENDRICKS | SUN
JOE HENDRICKS | SUN
Mayor vetoes Bean Point ‘no swim’ zone
New signs being installed this week will advise Bean Point swimmers to enter the dangerous currents at their own risk.
BY JOE HENDRICKS | SUN SUN CORRESPONDENT | jhendricks@amisun.com
ANNA MARIA – Mayor Mark Short has suspended the city’s efforts to create a “no swim” zone at Bean Point.
On Sept. 15, Short vetoed the emergency ordinance adopted by city commissioners on Sept. 11 that formalized a previously enacted Bean Point “no swim” zone.
The short-lived emergency ordinance prohibited swimming from the Fern Street beach access to the beach access at 831 North Shore Drive but still allowed impacted beachfront Bean Point property owners with riparian property rights to continue swimming there.
Short was concerned that allowing some homeowners and their guests to swim there while prohibiting other residents and visitors from doing the same created enforcement challenges.
When contacted on Sept. 17, Short said the recently installed metal signs that say, “No Swimming, Dangerous Currents” will be replaced this week by new signs that say “Warning. Dangerous Currents. Swim at your own risk. No lifeguards.”
Without an accompanying ordinance, Short enacted the “no swim” zone on Sept. 2 after proposing it for city commission consideration on Aug. 14. He did so in response a drowning and multiple water rescues involving swimmers caught in the strong Bean Point rip currents. On Aug. 28, the commission reached unanimous consensus for Short to move forward with implementing the “no swim” zone. On Aug. 31, 20-year-old Abhigyan Patel drowned while swimming at Bean Point.
In an email sent to The Sun on Sept. 16, Short wrote, “I vetoed Emergency Ordinance 25-951, which was passed by the commission last Thursday regarding no swimming at the Bean Point area of the beach. The ordinance, as approved by the commission, provided for inconsistent enforcement and would be impractical to enforce by the MCSO (Manatee County Sheriff’s Office) and city code enforcement personnel. City commission was informed of this decision yesterday.”
JOE HENDRICKS | SUN
The Bean Point “No Swimming” signs will be replaced with signs that say, “Warning. Dangerous Currents. Swim at your own risk. No lifeguards.”
Intended to be replaced by a permanent, and perhaps different, ordinance, the now-vetoed 60-day emergency ordinance said, “It shall be unlawful for any person to engage in swimming, floating, rafting, paddleboarding, kayaking or other similar water-based recreational activities in the waters of the Bean Point area defined as: ‘The shoreline and waters beginning at the Fern Avenue (Street) beach access, extending northward around Bean Point and eastward to the beach access between 831 and 833 North Shore Drive.’ Fishing and wading in water up to knee depth
shall be permitted but discouraged.”
Public input given by potentially impacted property owners on Sept. 11 resulted in the city commission asking City Attorney Becky Vose to add language to the emergency ordinance’s penalty provisions that allowed some beachfront homeowners to continue swimming along that portion of Bean Point.
“Owners, and their guests, of homes that are not vacation rentals with riparian rights in this specific area are exempt from these penalties,” the additional language said.
Regarding enforcement of the emergency ordinance, Short said warnings would be given but no fines would be imposed on violators while the emergency ordinance remained in effect.
Sgt. Brett Getman leads the Manatee County Sheriff’s Office Anna Maria Unit. When a commissioner asked him about allowing some people to swim at Bean Point while prohibiting others from doing the same, Getman said, “It’s just going to invite people to swim that see other people swimming.”
ISLAND NEWS
IN BRIEF
Cottage being relocated to Sato Real Estate property
On Wednesday, Oct. 8, Frank Agnelli’s Mason Martin Builders will relocate the ground-level cottage at 106 Willow Ave. to the backyard of the Sato Real Estate office at 519 Pine Ave. Agnelli said Sato Real Estate previously considered constructing a new multi-level building as part of the company’s expansion plans, but when the cottage became available, decided instead to take a more preservationminded approach to expanding the real estate operations already headquartered in the 1912 Roser Cottage. Beginning around 9 a.m. and taking about 45 minutes to travel less than a mile, the cottage will be transported along Willow Avenue, Gulf Drive and Pine Avenue. Anna Maria Mayor Mark Short and the Manatee County Sheriff’s Office are aware of the relocation project.
Parking violation fines raised in Bradenton Beach
Bradenton Beach commissioners approved an increase in parking violation fines to $100 from the prior $75 at the Sept. 18 commission meeting. Ticketable violations include beach parking on Bridge Street; parking on street ends; parking any portion of a vehicle outside marked spaces; parking within 20 feet of an intersection; parking in golf cart spaces or designated shuttle areas; and parking in municipal lots between midnight and 6 a.m. Unauthorized parking in a disabled space or zone carries a fine of $300.
Sun hosting Holmes Beach candidate forum
The Anna Maria Island Sun will host a Holmes Beach city commission candidate forum at Holmes Beach City Hall on Wednesday, Sept. 24 from 6-7:30 p.m. and the public is invited. The forum will feature the four city commission candidates seeking the three seats to be filled by the city election that concludes on Tuesday, Nov. 4. Current commissioners Steve Oelfke, Terry Schaefer and Carol Soustek seek additional two-year terms and challenger Jessica Patel seeks to unseat one of the incumbents. Moderated by Sun reporter Joe Hendricks, the forum will be livestreamed and archived for 30 days at The Sun’s Facebook page.
Scan this code with your smartphone to go there.
Court ruling allows openly carried guns in public places
The court ruling allows guns to be openly carried at public beaches, parks, business districts and more.
BY JOE HENDRICKS SUN CORRESPONDENT | jhendricks@amisun.com
ANNA MARIA ISLAND – A recent court ruling now allows rifles, shotguns, holstered sidearms and other firearms to be openly carried in public throughout Florida, with certain exceptions, prompting wide-ranging reactions from local law enforcement officials.
On Anna Maria Island, firearms can now be openly carried at Manatee Beach, Coquina Beach and all other public beaches, at Bayfront Park and City Pier Park, at public boat ramps, while strolling Bridge Street, Pine Avenue and the Island’s other business and restaurant districts, in churches and anywhere else not prohibited by Florida law.
When contacted on Sept. 19 and asked if openly carried firearms are now allowed on the Island’s county-owned public beaches, Manatee County Sheriff’s Office Public Information Officer Randy Warren said, “Yes, under this ruling, firearms are allowed on the beach.”
In 2023, the Florida Legislature and Gov. Ron DeSantis eliminated the requirement to obtain a permit to carry a concealed weapon; the recent open carry ruling provides additional allowances for Florida gun owners.
THE RULING
On Sept. 15, the Florida Police Chiefs Association (FPCA) distributed the open carry guidance memorandum prepared by FPCA General Counsel David Marsey.
“On Sept. 10, 2025, the First District Court of Appeal struck down Florida’s ban on the open carry of firearms, finding Section 790.053, Florida Statutes, unconstitutional. Although a previous Florida Supreme Court case held that Florida’s ban on open carry was constitutional, the recent McDaniels case was the first to consider the constitutionality of Florida’s open carry ban under intervening Supreme Court case law which clarified the rights protected by the Second Amendment,” Marsey’s memo says.
Marsey noted the McDaniels ruling is now the law of the state and the appellate court’s opinion is binding on all Florida trial courts until another appellate court or the Florida Supreme Court renders a contrary opinion.
“Nothing in the McDaniels case prohibits the enforcement of Florida’s reckless display of a firearm statute, the ban on possession of firearms by convicted felons or the enforcement of the ban on the carrying of firearms in otherwise prohibited places, whether open or concealed,” Marsey’s memo says.
“Because the ban on open carry is currently unconstitutional, Florida’s law enforcement officers should immediately discontinue enforcement of the statute and Florida’s chiefs and law enforcement executives should take immediate action to prevent arrests for a violation of this statute. Arrests for open carrying of firearms in light of McDaniels most likely exposes officers and/or agencies to civil liability,” Marsey wrote.
The FPCA memo included a link to the Sept. 15
guidance memo issued by Florida Attorney General James Uthmeier.
Uthmeier’s memo references Florida Statute 790.06(12) (a) and the restrictions set forth there now also apply to openly carried firearms. Prohibited locations include law enforcement facilities, courthouses and courtrooms, election polling places, a meeting place of any city or county government, public school district or special district, a meeting place of the Florida Legislature, any elementary or secondary school or college facility, administration building or career center, any school, college or professional athletic event not related to firearms and any portion of an establishment licensed to dispense alcoholic beverages for on-premise consumption as its primary business activity. Uthmeier’s memo notes that private property owners (including business owners) maintain the legal right to compel individuals carrying firearms to leave their premises, and any person carrying a firearm who violates the private property owner’s warning to depart will commit armed trespassing, a third-degree felony.
ISLAND LAW ENFORCEMENT REACTION
When contacted on Sept. 19 and asked about the open carry ruling, Holmes Beach Police Chief Bill Tokajer said, “Just because the law says you can do something doesn’t mean you should do it. It doesn’t mean the beach is the right place to come with a rifle or a shotgun. We’re hoping common sense prevails and we need people to be mindful that there are still places you cannot carry a firearm, openly or concealed.”
When asked if he’s concerned about the open carry ruling, Tokajer said, “I am not. I don’t see that being a concern for the residents of Holmes Beach. I don’t think we have that many people that will push the envelope.”
As for walking the beach or any other public place while carrying a shotgun or rifle, Tokajer said, “The statute says you can’t carry in a menacing or threatening fashion, which means the barrel of the gun should always either be pointed directly straight up or straight down. If you’re carrying in a manner that points the gun towards somebody, intentional or not, that’s an arrestable charge.”
When asked if the ruling presents additional concerns for his officers, Tokajer said, “I don’t believe so. As a police officer, when you respond to any incident you’re bringing a gun with you, which always makes it an armed encounter. You always have to be cautious.”
Sgt. Brett Getman from the Manatee County Sheriff’s Office Anna Maria Unit said, “We are going to enforce the law as it’s written. We have been given guidance by our sheriff and legal department.”
Bradenton Beach Police Chief John Cosby said, “This is a huge concern. This is going to be a problem.”
JOE HENDRICKS | SUN
Shotguns and other firearms can now be openly carried in Florida, including at Anna Maria Island’s public beaches.
JOE HENDRICKS | SUN
This cottage at 106 Willow Ave. will be moved to 519 Pine Ave.
JOE HENDRICKS | SUN
The cottage will be relocated to the backyard of the Sato Real Estate property on Pine Avenue.
Give peace a chance
Anna Maria Elementary School students celebrated Peace Day on Sept. 19, parading flags from different countries on the school grounds and promoting peace on Earth.
ANNE YARBROUGH | SUN Above, fourth- and fifth-graders performed a song during Peace Day at Anna Maria Elementary. Left, Holmes Beach Mayor Judy Titsworth and Police Chief Bill Tokajer led the flag procession for Peace Day at Anna Maria Elementary on Sept. 19. Right, the Manatee High School Marching ‘Canes performed during Peace Day.
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ANNE YARBROUGH | SUN
Aria Jury, Easton Nock and Savanna Scardina were flag bearers for Peace Day at AME.
OPINION
Holmes Beach commissioner reflects on hurricane damage, recovery
One year after Hurricane Helene struck Anna Maria Island, longtime Holmes Beach resident and City Commissioner Carol Soustek shares her thoughts on the damage and displacement that she, her home, her neighbors and her city sustained, and the ongoing recovery process.
BY CAROL SOUSTEK GUEST COLUMNIST
I left the Island with two days of clothes, personal items and important papers. As in the past, I expected to be home within 48 hours.
When the hotel had no room for me, I transferred to another hotel for a week. When I was allowed back on the Island, I could not comprehend in my mind the damage I was seeing. It was horrible. The roads, homes, trees, buildings and everything else were beat up and looking so bad. My home was filled with slimy wet residue that smelled bad. The refrigerator had tipped over, the furniture had moved every which way, the mattresses were sopping wet and clothes had fallen onto the floors.
I could not handle it and I went into a “fog” state of mind. I functioned, but with no plans, no emotion. After everything was thrown out into my yard and my home was gutted, I just stopped thinking. I was numb. Then, my neighbors and my family came to my aid, helping wherever they could. We started laughing over silly stories about habits we had that now do not work with no power, no water or no walls. We were all trying to move forward but there is no book telling you what to do next. You learn as you go. I was out of my home for nine months, living in an RV, hotels and staying with family.
I am a widowed senior lady and 60 year+ resident of AMI. I would like to join The Center (called the community center
when our family settled here in 1965) if I can use my Medicare benefit Silver Sneakers for the fitness/facilities.
I worked all my life until retirement and pay a lot for Medicare and its benefits - Silver Sneakers is a valuable health resource for we aging residents of this beautiful Island.
Drop us a line
Got an opinion, a complaint or a compliment? Is there something you need to get off your chest? Send us a letter to the editor and have your say. There are a couple of ways to do it. The easiest and most direct is to email The Sun at news@amisun.com. Remember to put Letter to the Editor in the subject field. Or you can snail-mail
I made mistakes with the repair work at first, but the city’s building department set me on a good path and I made progress. I used all the insurance money and two of my retirement accounts to pay for it all. I was determined that this storm was not going to make me leave my Island. I am back in my home and
I look forward to hearing a positive response from you so that I and other senior Islanders can enjoy The Center.
a letter to us at The Anna Maria Island Sun, P.O. Box 1189, Anna Maria, FL 34216. Letters should be kept to 300 words or less and must contain your name and the city in which you reside. Personal attacks and obscene language will not be printed. The Sun reserves the right to edit letters for length or content.
still working on fixing the outside of the building and yard. It felt strange at first being back because everything is new, not old and comfortable – like I was still in a hotel room. My neighbors are now back in their homes and still working on various projects. Some neighbors have not started the rebuild.
Things will not be the same as before. We were knocked off our feet and we need time to regain our confidence and feelings of safety. Every day I feel better inside. I am where I want to be. My community will rebuild because Islanders are crazy, but so strong in their desire to live here.
Best regards, Marsha Lindsey Anna Maria
JOE HENDRICKS | SUN
While displaced from her home, Carol Soustek continued her work as a city commissioner.
ON THE AGENDA
BRADENTON BEACH
ANNA MARIA
10005 GULF DRIVE
107 GULF DRIVE N. FOR INFORMATION, CALL 941-778-1005
Visit www.cityofbradentonbeach.com or contact city hall for more information
Thursday, Sept. 25, 2 p.m., regular City Commission meeting
FOR INFORMATION, CALL 941-708-6130
Visit www.cityofannamaria. com or contact city hall for more information.
Thursday, Sept. 25, 5:01 p.m., Final budget hearing and regular City Commission meeting
No meetings scheduled
HOLMES BEACH
5801 MARINA DRIVE FOR INFORMATION, CALL 941-708-5800
Visit www.holmesbeachfl.org or contact city hall for more information.
Thursday, Sept. 25, 5:01 p.m., City Commission final budget adoption hearing
Wednesday, Oct. 1, 10 a.m., Parks and Beautification Committee meeting
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 MEMORIAL COMMUNITY 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.
Love prevails in ‘Janus’
Written in 1955, “Janus” examines the confines and freedoms of love and marriage.
BY JOE HENDRICKS SUN CORRESPONDENT | jhendricks@amisun.com
ANNA MARIA – The Island Players 2025-26 community theater season is off to an excellent start with the Sept. 18-28 performances of the infidelity-inspired romantic comedy, “Janus.”
Written by Carolyn Green in 1955 and set in a New York City studio apartment in that same mid-1950s timeframe, the humorous, insightful, forward thinking, pre-women’s liberation movement storyline centers around two part-time novelists who leave their longtime spouses each summer to secretly spend their summers of marital infidelity together writing the commercially successful and financially lucrative
“lusty, busty” historical novels published under their shared and secretive pen name, Janus.
“Janus” stars Island Players veteran Valerie Lipscomb as Jessica, the free-thinking, life-loving, romantically imaginative and idealistic Seattle resident who’s half of the successful writing tandem.
Larry Williams plays Denny, a considerate,
intellectual and somewhat reserved Landover, Maryland resident and French teacher whose meticulous research brings historical authenticity to the wellreceived Janus novels.
Former New York resident Sue Belvo plays Miss Addy, the cognac drinking, noholds-barred, prototypical
SEE PLAYERS, PAGE 14
Local songwriters performing at Island Players theater
Local singer/songwriters Mikes Sales, Sara Nelms and Dean Johanesen will be the featured musical artists for the Island Players Theater Songwriters in the Round performance on Sunday, Sept. 28 at 7:30 p.m. at the Island Players theater, 10009 Gulf Drive, Anna Maria. Tickets are $12 in advance and $15 at the door, Tickets can be purchased online at https:// mikesales.ticketspice.com/islandplayers-theater-songwriter-series.
Belle Haven cottage celebrating grand reopening
The Wednesday, Oct. 1 grand reopening of the Belle Haven historic cottage located on the Anna Maria Island Historical Museum grounds will include a ribbon cutting ceremony conducted by the Anna Maria Island Chamber of Commerce from 5-7 p.m. The celebration will include “light bite” appetizers and the museum will be open for free tours.
JOE HENDRICKS | SUN
From left, Sue Belvo, Rick Kopp, Valerie Lipscomb, Larry Williams and Daniel Coppinger star in the Island Players’ production of “Janus.”
Beachfront property now vacant due to hurricane
BY JOE HENDRICKS SUN CORRESPONDENT | jhendricks@amisun.com
BRADENTON BEACH – Hurricane Helene’s storm surge left behind several condemned homes and structures that were damaged beyond repair and were later demolished or still await demolition.
Some of the hurricane-related demolitions resulted in now-vacant beachfront properties becoming newly available on the real estate market.
One of those demolished homes was the historic beachfront 3 Pines Cottage that stood at 2214 Gulf Drive N. The cottage was named for the three pine trees that still stand on the property.
On Sept. 26, Hurricane Helene’s storm surge ripped through the cottage’s Gulffront windows and out the landward side of the cottage, taking much of the wall, and a slice of Island history, with it. The now-vacant lot is currently on the market with a $2.55 million asking price.
The vacant lot is currently owned by Dick Kuhlman, an Ohio native who was staying in the cottage with a friend when Hurricane Helene’s storm surge crashed through the Gulf-side windows and burst through the exterior wall along the landward side of the cottage. After escaping through the hole in the wall created by the storm surge, Dick and his friend rode out the rest of the storm inside his nearby van.
Dick and his late wife, Judy, purchased the cottage from Judy’s grandmother in 1983 and they visited often until Judy’s passing in 2023.
In the late 1940s, Judy’s grandparents, Floyd and Florence Myers, towed their 29foot Airstream trailer to Bradenton Beach, parked it on a vacant beachfront lot and over the years built the 3 Pines Cottage around the travel trailer that became part of the cottage.
RESIDENT: Preparing for storm season
PAGE 1
Budzinski said water was at her door during Hurricane Helene, but never came into the house.
“There was one point about 10 o’clock I asked myself, ‘Have I made a horrible mistake by staying?’ ” she said.
“I came out the next morning, I had two cars sitting here and they both started,” she said. "Everything had this slick sort of
slime. It was so slippery. It was like walking on greased glass.”
With declining water pressure, Budzinski said she spent the first day after the storm hosing her yard down.
She said the sand in the alley behind her house was about 2 feet high, and she dug a ramp to get the cars up and cleared the entry.
“Mother nature dumped a sand bar on us,” she said.
Budzinski opened an accessory
apartment in her home to friends who were unable to remain in their homes.
She said her asthma symptoms became worse following the hurricanes.
“It got to where I couldn’t… it was so hard for me to walk around my house without resting,” she said. “This was due to the stress.”
SEE RESIDENT, PAGE 19
All that’s left now are memories and a “For Sale” erected by Wagner Realty, the real estate company that previously managed the 3 Pines Cottage vacation rentals. The Wagner Realty office directly across the street was also badly damaged during Hurricane Helene. The hurricanedamaged building was later sold and
JOE HENDRICKS | SUN
Hurricane Helene’s storm surge destroyed the 3 Pines Cottage.
WAGNER REALTY | SUBMITTED
3 Pines Cottage started as an Airstream trailer in the 1940s.
JOE HENDRICKS | SUN
The former Wagner Realty building is hurricanedamaged and unoccupied.
LESLIE LAKE | SUN
One year after Hurricane Helene flooded Cortez, repairs and renovations continue at Fisherman’s Hall.
Sea turtles match nesting record on AMI
BY LESLIE LAKE SUN CORRESPONDENT | llake@amisun.com
ANNA MARIA ISLAND – Sea turtles matched the record set in 2019 on Anna Maria Island for the number of nests laid in a season – 543, according to Anna Maria Island Turtle Watch and Shorebird Monitoring.
It's nearly the end of sea turtle nesting season with only 45 nests left on the beach. Nests will continue hatching until Halloween, and volunteers continue daily morning patrols to check every nest and complete nest excavations.
Turtle Watch issued the following reminders to keep the beaches turtle friendly so that all hatchlings make it safely to the water:
• No cell phone or flashlights (even red lights) on the beach at night;
• Close blinds so interior lights cannot be seen from the beach;
• Use turtle-friendly lighting (red or amber LEDs) with shields or turn off lights that can be seen from the beach;
• Report any non-turtle-friendly lights that can be seen from the beach to your local code enforcement; and
• Fill in your holes and remove your beach items, furniture and trash every night when you leave the beach.
If you find a hatchling in danger, in the road, in a pool, or just off the beach:
• Pick up the hatchling to get it out of danger;
• Place it in a bucket/container (you can put a little sand in the bucket but no water);
•Do not release hatchlings on your own. If they are sick or injured, they may not be able to swim; and
• Call AMITW's hotline at 941-3018434 for more instructions.
Anna Maria Island Turtle Watch and Shorebird Monitoring reminds visitors and residents to give migrating birds space as they rest on the Island.
BY LESLIE LAKE SUN CORRESPONDENT | llake@amisun.com
ANNA MARIA ISLAND
– Anna Maria Island Turtle Watch and Shorebird Monitoring reported 3,497 gulls, terns and other shorebirds were tallied during this month's Island-wide shorebird survey.
“You may have noticed large flocks of terns, many with young birds. Presumably, these birds have moved away from their nest-
ing colonies in search of newer feeding grounds,” according to a Sept. 19 update from Turtle Watch office manager Danielle Kimberly.
“While visiting our Anna Maria Island beaches, these birds are feeding offshore, resting and feeding their young. Many of these young birds hatched this year on many of the spoil islands found in Tampa Bay.”
Kimberly wrote that Anna Maria Island is a place where birds including marbled godwits, red knots and snowy plovers can stop to rest and feed before continuing their journey to their southern wintering grounds.
“Red knots are small, brownish birds that fly more than 9,000 miles from north to south
every autumn and repeat the trip in reverse every spring, making this bird one of the longest-distance migrants in the animal kingdom,” Kimberly wrote. “It’s an incredible feat for a creature with a wingspan of just 20 inches.”
To help visiting flocks of birds flourish, please:
• Give the birds space by walk ing around the flock;
• Allow the birds to rest and feed quietly without running through the flock;
Source: Anna Maria Island Turtle Watch and Shorebird Monitoring
• Birds eat fish, insects and crustaceans, not bread – do not feed birds; and
• Enjoy them from a distance, especially the begging youngsters.
SUBMITTED
Where’s Winnie?
Winnie, a female loggerhead sea turtle, is in ninth place in a field of 12 turtles in the Sea Turtle Conservancy’s Tour de Turtles Race that began on Aug. 1. She has traveled 352 miles in the Gulf of Mexico since she was satellite-tagged and released after nesting on Coquina Beach on June 23 and 202 miles since the race began. Winnie is swimming to raise awareness about the threat of light pollution and how lighting near shore can negatively impact nesting sea turtles and their hatchlings.
Her participation in the 2025 Tour de Turtles is sponsored by Hurricane Hanks and Anna Maria Island Turtle Watch and Shorebird Monitoring. Visit The Sun’s Facebook page for weekly “Where’s Winnie?” updates and visit amisun.com for weekly updates on turtle nesting activity in “Nesting News.”
July 2025 tourist tax collections
Manatee County’s 6% tourist development tax (resort tax) is collected from hotel, motel, resort, condo and other short-term vacation accommodations rented for six months or less.
The amounts shown were collected for June and paid to the Manatee County Tax Collector’s Office in July. A third of the tax revenues are spent on marketing the county as a tourist destination and almost 17% is spent on beach renourishment.
In Anna Maria, July tourist tax collections increased from $403,933 in 2024 to $521,082 in 2025 – a $117,149 (29%) increase.
In Bradenton Beach, July tourist tax collections decreased from $123,116 in 2024 to $119,760 in 2025 – a $3,356 (2.7%) decrease.
In Holmes Beach, July tourist tax collections increased from $816,966 in 2024 to $866,862 in 2025 – a $49,896 (6.1%) decrease.
In unincorporated Manatee County (the areas located outside of the six chartered municipalities), July tourist tax collections increased from $872,604 in 2024 to $1,041,117 in 2025 – a $168,513 (19.3%) increase.
In Manatee County as a whole, July tourist tax collections increased from $2,623,365 in 2024 to $3,031,550 in 2025 – a $408,185 (15.5%) increase.
Tourist development taxes are also collected in Bradenton, Palmetto and the Manatee County portion of Longboat Key. The revenues are controlled by the Manatee County Commission and can be shared with local municipalities to help fund tourism-related projects and enhancements.
To anonymously report a rental owner who may not be paying the tourist tax, call 941-741-4809 or visit the county’s tourist tax evader webpage at www.taxcollector.com/contact-tourist-tax-evader.cfm.
OBITUARIES
Gayle Simpson Schulz
Gayle Simpson Schulz of Anna Maria Island, Florida danced her way into heaven on July 28, 2025 at the age of 71. Born on May 11, 1954 in the historic town of Alexandria, Virginia to loving parents Donald F. Simpson Sr. and Roylee Tozer, Gayle is survived by her beloved sons, Eric Michael Simpson
Funkhouser and Matthew Simpson
Funkhouser; siblings, Donald F. Simpson Jr. and Dorothy Simpson Beveridge; companion, J. Michael Ellsworth Jr.; stepdaughter, Virginia Zimmerman; and stepson, Sascha Schulz; as well as many loving family members and dear friends.
Professionally, Gayle was a licensed real estate broker in both Florida and Virginia, and owner of Simpson South Realty LLC in Holmes Beach, Florida.
Those who knew Gayle would describe her as the life of every party and the friendliest person in the room. She was selfless, always putting others before herself, and her kindness and humor was a language she spoke fluently.
PLAYERS: Love prevails in ‘Janus’
Service agent in diligent search of possible income tax fraud violations.
Gayle loved music and dancing was her favorite mode of transportation. She loved boating, swimming in her pool, soaking up the Florida sun, and spending time with friends over a nice glass of chardonnay.
As we bid farewell to Gayle Simpson Schulz, let us do so with a smile and a “Cheers,” for that is what she would have wanted. We can imagine her dancing in a place where the music never stops, the sun never sets and the water is always just the right temperature.
Gayle’s Florida Celebration of Life will be held at D Coy Ducks on Anna Maria Island, Florida on Saturday, Sept. 27, 2025 from 3-6 p.m. In lieu of
Celebration of life set for Stock
The celebration of life for Capt. Jason Stock will be held on Saturday, Oct. 11 from 5-9 p.m. at The Center of Anna Maria Island, 407 Magnolia Ave., Anna Maria. The event is kid friendly with live music, food, drinks, stories and love.
flowers, Gayle would want you to join her family and friends to celebrate her amazing life.
New Yorker who serves as the authors’ caring friend and money-loving literary agent.
Upon Jessica’s arrival, Ms. Addy pays a visit to couple to share good news about their growing literary success and continued financial windfalls and cautionary news about the investigative efforts of Mr. Harper, the hyper-devoted Internal Revenue
In his portrayal of Mr. Harper, Island Players veteran Daniel Coppinger rekindles the same overthe-top comedic acting approach he showcased as a meddling Italian waiter in last year’s “Birthday Suite.”
The romantic troubles begin when Jessica’s husband of 18 years, Gil – a successful, assertive and politically connected shipping tycoon played
by Rick Kopp – pays a surprise visit to her summer lodgings. Gil soon learns about his wife’s infidelities and
finds himself feeling bewildered and angry while facing a marital crisis that seemed unimaginable on a day that began with him onboard a ship headed for his annual summer sojourn in South America.
When Mr. Harper arrives the following morning, Gil, Jessica and Dennis’ problems are compounded by accusations of income tax fraud. While trying to resolve their tax issues, Gil, Jessica and Dennis are forced to examine their own positions on love, mar-
JOE HENDRICKS | SUN Mike Lusk directed “Janus.”
PLAYERS: Love prevails in ‘Janus’
FROM PAGE 14
riage, fidelity, divorce, companionship and the pursuit of personal and professional fulfillment.
With Jessica’s unwavering sense of feminine independence and her strong belief in love, marriage and the enjoyment of life taking center stage, “Janus” provides a well-acted, fast-paced, lighthearted but contemplative examination of love and happiness and the sacrifices and compromises sometimes required along the way.
“Love isn’t an apple you can give away or keep. It’s a climate you live in,” Jessica tells Gil when they’re discussing the future of their marriage.
“Janus” is directed by Mike Lusk and coproduced by the Ugly Grouper restaurant. Tickets for the remaining shows are $20-$30 and available online at www.theislandplayers. org. Tickets can be purchased at the box
office Monday through Sunday from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. and before showtime if available. The Island Players theater is located at 10009 Gulf Drive in Anna Maria. For more information call 941-778-5755.
ISLAND SPORTS
CENTER ADULT FLAG FOOTBALL SCOREBOARD Edible Cookie Dough Café 48 G.I. Bins 29
SEPT. 18 - COMBO SCRAMBLE/SHAMBLE (PAR 43)
First Place Team - Deb and Dave Richardson, Quentin Talbert and Ron Vandeman, 39, 4 under par
Second Place Team - Mike Gillie, Dale Miller, Kurt Snouffer and Warren Stevens, 41, 2 under par.
KEY ROYALE GOLF CLUB SCOREBOARD SEPT. 15 - MODIFIED STABLEFORD
First Place - Ed Harrell and Larry Pippel tied, +4
SEPT. 16 - LOW NET SCORE
First PlaceJackie Gorski, 34
Second PlaceMargrit Layh and Jana Samuels tied, 35
Third Place - Helen Pollock and Sue Wheeler tied, 36
ANNA MARIA HORSESHOES | SUBMITTED Howcroft takes first
Gary Howcroft came out on top after posting the only 3-0 record during pool play at Anna Maria Horseshoes on Sept. 17. On Sept. 21, another walker, Billy Silver, followed in his footsteps, winning the day’s championship after going 3-0.
JOE HENDRICKS | SUN Gil, Jessica, Mr. Harper and Denny discuss income tax issues.
OUTDOORS
An anniversary of resilience
Reel Time
hen Hurricane Helene struck the Anna Maria Island communities on Sept. 26, 2024, it brought with it a storm surge and level of destruction that the area hasn’t witnessed since 1921 when the Tampa Bay/Tarpon Springs hurricane struck. Back then the islands weren’t heavily populated, but Cortez, then a vibrant fishing village, was all but wiped out. The waterfront was devastated and fish houses, boats and docks destroyed. During that storm, residents took refuge in the brick Cortez Rural Graded Schoolhouse, which today houses the Florida Maritime Museum. The museum, which is closed for repairs from the effects of Helene, displays artifacts,
photographs, charts and personal stories from that event. Their digital collection includes “Caught in the Storm: 100 Years of Hurricanes in Florida,” which covers the 1921 storm. That collection will likely be updated to include Helene and Milton.
On Anna Maria Island, the anniversary of Hurricane Helene and Milton will take its place in history alongside the hurricane of 1921, but it will also highlight how people pulled together, all views and politics aside, to rise to the challenge.
AMI Outfitters on Pine Street in Anna Maria was one of the many business on the Island that suffered major damage. “It’s hard to believe we’re approaching the one-year anniversary of the hurricanes,” owners Dave and Jennifer Hagey said. “After being closed for 65 days to rebuild, we chose to view the damage as an opportunity to reset, just like the rest of the Island. With incredible support from our community, we reopened and ended 2024 with our best year yet. From loyal customers showing up on Black Friday, to The Center of Anna Maria Island rallying volunteers, to Mayor Mark Short’s dedication, we were lifted by the people around us. A special thanks to Issa Homes for matching donations that helped small businesses like ours recover faster.
Local fishing guide, resident and father Capt. Dave White was also negatively affected by the storms, but chooses to focus on his gratitude to others.
Because of this support, we’re proud to celebrate our strongest year in 13 years of AMI Outfitters.”
“A year later, reflecting on the impact of the storms, it’s very easy to be grateful for the placid September that we’ve had so far,” he said. "While the fishing was exceptional last fall, we had no clients calling to take advantage whatsoever. With the Island still in shambles, the outlook seemed very bleak at the time. I created a discounted gift card opportunity for my repeat customers in order to generate revenue to pay my mortgage and help support my three little girls. This enabled me to get by until we had some tourist traffic in February and March. Some of us received a little economic boost from organizations like Suncoast
Waterkeeper and the International Gamefish Association. While many of us are still digging out from under the debt we slid into from the fall, we’re all hopeful for a busy spring season to climb back on top of the hill with a greater sense of accomplishment for overcoming the adversity of last year. It’s not a job that you can rest on your laurels and be frivolous about, financially. But I can’t see myself doing anything else!”
Many iconic structures like the Rod and Reel Pier, Annie’s Bait and Tackle and the Cortez net camp were lost to the storms, while others like the Anna Maria City Pier were heavily damaged, but it’s the sense of community and the way friends, neighbors and businesses pulled together to support each other that will remain as the lasting impression.
RUSTY CHINNIS
The historic net camp in Sarasota Bay off the Cortez fishing village was one of the area's defining historical structures lost during Hurricanes Helene and Milton.
PERRY: Retires as Bradenton Beach city attorney
no complaint had been filed, which triggered the Sept. 16 work meeting. At that meeting, the commission granted Perry’s request to allow her more time to respond to the allegations.
Instead, Perry made the Sept. 18 retirement announcement as she read, sometimes tearfully, from a prepared statement that was titled, "A letter to my Bradenton Beach family."
Perry stated she had planned to retire at the end of 2024 after selling her home and moving out of state, but when Hurricanes Helene and Milton struck, she put those plans on hold.
“Now in my 21st year of service and, with our community well on their way to recovery, as we mark the one-year anniversary of Helene next week, it’s time for me to finally retire and say goodbye to my role as your city attorney,” she said. “Writing these words is harder than I imagined,
because Bradenton Beach has been more than just a place I’ve worked. It has been my family, my teacher, my calling and the source of friendships and stories that I will carry forever.”
Perry said her decision to retire was based on wanting to spend time with her husband and daughter in South Carolina.
“For the past year, I have spent too many days and months here in Florida rather than with my family,” she said. “My daughter is now one quarter of the way through her second year in her new school with me away yet again because I am serving here.”
Perry said her family has made sacrifices for the city.
“This is lost time - moments of my daughter growing up, moments with my loved ones - that I can never get back. For me this has been the greatest sacrifice of all,” she said. “My family has carried on without me so that I could be present for you and that is lost time
that I can never recover.”
“It is now time for me to pour into my home life. To sit at my own table, not a city hall dais,” she said. “To watch my daughter grow up in person, not through a phone screen, to make memories with my husband that cannot be postponed or replaced.”
She thanked city staff,
commissioners and city leadership.
“While the fabric of our community is woven by its people, it is our staff within these walls who hold it together day after day,” she said.
“To my commissioners, past and present, your service is the hardest and most
thankless role in government,” Perry said. “For little recognition and only a modest stipend, you shoulder the hopes, frustrations and daily realities of this city.”
TRANSITION
“Over the past year, I have worked diligently to prepare for and support a smooth transition,” Perry said. “I am fully aware of discussions that have taken place, and I recognized that some have expressed a desire for new leadership in the role of city attorney.”
“My commitment has always been, and remains, to serve the best interest of this city and its elected officials,” she said. “If my final act of service is to step aside in a manner that allows for peace and continuity, I do so with a sense of fulfillment and contentment in that decision.”
SEE PERRY, PAGE 23
JOE HENDRICKS | SUN
City Attorney Ricinda Perry placed three binders filled with city documents in front of Commissioner Debbie Scaccianoce.
REAL ESTATE
Mortgage fraud and hurricanes
You might not think that mortgage fraud and hurricanes have much in common. But if you get caught in a mortgage fraud, it could end up being the biggest hurricane you’ve ever seen.
There have been several stories recently in the news about mortgage fraud. This has been a long-running issue in the housing industry and now the Justice Department is getting serious about investigating.
But what is mortgage fraud? Mortgage fraud or mortgage scams are committed when someone who is involved in the process of obtaining a mortgage loan from a lender is deliberately deceitful and fraudulently misrepresents information that the lender relies upon when they agree to fund, insure and/or mortgage the property.
Frequently there is more than one party to a mortgage fraud or scam, among them, buyers or sellers of residential property; buyers or sellers of com-
Castles in the Sand
mercial property; property investors; real estate agents; closing attorneys; property appraisers; escrow agents; home repair companies; and mortgage brokers.
Since mortgage rates have increased, buyers are motivated to get the best rate possible. Lenders typically offer better terms on mortgage rates for a primary residence with a higher mortgage ratio for a primary residence rather than a second home. For example, the down payment for a primary residence can be as low as 3% to 5%, compared to 10% to 20% for a second home and even higher for investment properties.
Many homeowners commit mortgage fraud simply to ensure they are able to purchase the property they want, by misrepresenting, omitting or otherwise telling lies about their financial information to qualify for a loan.
A term called “asset rental” becomes mortgage fraud when an applicant for a loan rents assets from another person or entity. Borrowing these assets is meant to inflate the borrower’s worth just long enough for them to be approved for the loan. Once approved, the assets are returned to whomever or from wherever they were received. Inflating appraisals is another fraud common in an increasing equity market. The appraisal is inflated to make the property value appear more than it actually is, tricking the lender into approving a larger mortgage than appropriate. We are dead center in hurricane season and in Cortez where I live, we have had more than our share of hurricanes and
flooding since last year. The fishing village and businesses along Cortez Road including Slicker’s and Foxy’s in particular have suffered. Now that they are back in business, let’s hope they won’t be hit again. We need small businesses and the restaurants in the village to continue the way of life that makes this area unique and rare in Florida.
On a personal note, the condos where I live on the Cortez peninsula also experienced 4 feet of water in the first event and multiple tornadoes in the second event. We lost about half our landscaping and had over five units that incurred so much damage they were unlivable for months. The expense to rebuild mostly came out of resident’s personal funds or association funds. Another reminder to homeowners is that insurance rarely covers all storm related repairs. No one wants to live through that again, so stay safe and be smart.
LOUISE BOLGER
RESIDENT: Preparing for storm season
HURRICANES: Closed two Anna Maria piers
FROM PAGE 1
PREPARING FOR FUTURE STORMS
“Unless they’re predicting a direct hit, I won’t be leaving,” she said. If it’s coming up the coast, I’m not going to bother.”
She has 12 2-liter bottles filled with ice, so as they melt, they can be used as drinking water.
Her storm shutters are ready on the ground next to the building.
She is prepared for power outages.
“In that situation if your power goes out and you have a lantern, get a big piece of white paper and hold it behind it, as a reflector,” Budzinski said. “You can light an entire room off of one lantern.” FROM PAGE 9
LESLIE LAKE | SUN
Bradenton Beach resident Lynne Budzinski is prepared to evacuate with her five parrots in the event of a 2025 hurricane.
Built atop hollow, spun concrete pilings, the city-owned Anna Maria City Pier fared much better during Hurricane Helene and appeared to have sustained minimal damage. But inspectors later determined the City Pier’s structural support system was weakened by Hurricane Helene.
During the evening hours of Oct. 9, 2024 and the early morning hours of Oct. 10, Hurricane Milton destroyed most of what remained of the Rod & Reel Pier and restaurant building, leaving behind some pilings and some support beams that now serve as seabird perches. Much of the Rod & Reel debris washed ashore at nearby waterfront homes.
Hurricane Milton obliterated most of the City Pier walkway and left stranded the still standing T-end buildings occupied by the City Pier Grill and the Mote Marine Science, Education and Outreach Center that remain closed with no pedestrian access until a new pier walkway is built. The destruction of the City Pier also left Anna Maria without a Gulf Islands Ferry stop.
PLANS TO REBUILD
In late March, Rod & Reel Pier owner Oliver Lemke announced his plans to open a landbound version of the Rod & Reel Pier restaurant in the former Old Hamburg Schnitzel Haus space in the Anna Maria Island Centre in Holmes Beach. On Sept. 12, video was posted at the Rod & Reel Pier Facebook page showing the kitchen equipment being delivered. With many financial and permitting hurdles to clear, Lemke hopes to one day rebuild the original Rod & Reel Pier in Anna Maria. To date, the “Help Us Rebuild Rod and Reel Pier”
SEE HURRICANES, PAGE 20
JOE HENDRICKS | SUN This was all that remained of the Rod & Reel Pier after Hurricane Milton struck.
HURRICANES: Closed two Anna Maria piers
GoFundMe page has received more than $101,000 in donations from those who support those efforts.
A Sept. 20 visit to the Anna Maria location revealed a sign affixed to the closed Rod & Reel Pier gate that notes the pier was built in 1947 and destroyed by Hurricane Milton last October.
“We will rebuild,” the sign says.
Plastic flowers, a pair of sandals, an inflatable water toy, seashells and other items have also been attached to the gate that now serves as a makeshift shrine to the lost pier.
The city of Anna Maria and Mayor Mark Short recently received nine bid proposals from construction companies seeking the contract to replace the City Pier walkway. Short will soon present city commissioners with his recommended construction firm for the estimated $8 million pier replacement project that also includes repairs needed to restore the damaged and deteriorating T-end buildings.
Short hopes to have the City Pier reopened in October 2026 and the county hopes to install a new ferry stop alongside the pier around that same time.
FROM PAGE 19
JOE HENDRICKS | SUN The Rod & Reel Pier as of Sept. 20, 2025.
JOE HENDRICKS | SUN
Owner Oliver Lemke plans to open a landbound version of the Rod & Reel Pier restaurant in Holmes Beach.
FUN IN THE SUN
CLASSIFIEDS
ANNOUNCEMENTS
THRIVE BEACH YOGA: All Levels Welcome!
100 Pine Ave on AMI. 8:30am every Saturday & Sunday, $15 PreRegistration required at ThriveYogaFit.com
GET AHEAD OF THE NEXT STORM. FREE Flood Assessments FLOOD Barriers are NOT all Built the Same! OURS: 2.5X Stronger, 2-3X Taller (up to 10FT), 3rd Party Tested, & FL Made! Don’t wait TEXT or CALL Today! 941-3486952
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
GARAGE SALE
HUGE GARAGE SALE!
Saturday, September 27th 8am-1pm. 110 77th St Holmes Beach. Household items, New Waterford crystal, New cake pans, Copper pots, tools. SOMETHING FOR EVERYONE.
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
LOCAL ISLAND
RESIDENT 30+ years of experience. Licensed & insured. Professional Services. Carpentry, Painting, Drywall and More. Reliable, Honest, Quality work. FREE estimates- Call Brian 941-220-8300
HOME SERVICE
ALL AROUND HANDYMAN
Lawn maintenance, landscaping, trimming/removal trees. Boarding house for storms. Free estimates. Call 941-447-9266
HATE TO COOK? Long time Island resident. Can help with cooking, laundry and many things around your house. Many compliments on cooking. References available. Please Call or Text 941685-0045.
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
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!! 941-7131893
PRESSURE WASHING & WINDOWS
TOTAL HOME SERVICES CLEANING: Residential, Commercial, Construction, Vacation, VRBO Rentals . Also available Pressure Washing, Roof Cleaning, Paver Sealing and Windows. Call 941-5653931.
REAL ESTATE HOMES & CONDOS FOR SALE
Have you been thinking of selling? We NEED properties to List for SALE!!! GULF FRONT, CANAL FRONT, BAY FRONT CONDOS or HOMES} ASK for {BIG Alan Galletto of Island Real Estate to get it SOLD 941-232-2216
LOOKING FOR A highly motivated real estate broker to buy or sell your next home? Darcie Duncan, Broker Duncan Real Estate a lifelong island resident bringing success to her customers for 30 years. Proven track record brings you results! 941-725-1589
FOR SALE - PERICO BAY CLUB New Price for 2BR/2BA villa with Water View!
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 CENTRAL HOMES BEACH
3BR/2BA completely remodeled. Walk to beach, school, trolley, shopping. $2595/mo Call 941-7136743
BEAUTIFUL PERICO BAY
Club Condo! 2BR/2BA, Second Floor Unit $3500/ mo seasonally, $2300/mo annually +Security Deposit Please call 941-7781979 for more details.
ANNUAL RENTAL! Available NOW, Palm Dr in Holmes Beach.2BR/1BA, elevated duplex, pets welcome with deposit. 2 car garage, washer and dryer hookups $2000/month Application with background check required. Call Carol with Island Real Estate, 941-345-1300
AMI HOUSE on CANAL. Annual. 4BR/3BA walk to beach. $3700/mo. Plus utilities & deposit. Call 203-233-1119
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
SNOW BIRD SPECIAL: DISCOUNT for multiple months. 2BR/2BA 2nd Floor Condo in HOLMES BEACH. POOL, Tennis/Pickleball, in-unit laundry, WIFI, screened lanai, covered parking. AVAILABLE 2025/26 Season beginning December 2025. Beautiful, bayside seating area. Pool/Beach toys, Bikes included. Call Jack 312835-2323 for more info/ photos.
RENTALS: SEASONAL & VACATION
TOP FLOOR OCEAN VIEW
2BR/2BA rental available
August 15th 3 month minimum rent. $5-10k prorated. Utilities included 201-317-6922 owner operated
WINTER APARTMENT
1BR/1BA a few houses from the Gulf. 4-6 months rental. $3500/month. Call 941-778-4499
2BR/2BA W. BRADENTON.
December January February March available. Inclusive $3000 pm or $2750. Text 941-962-0971
TRANSPORTATION
ANYTIME TRANSPORTATION to all Airports, Casino, etc. Tampa/St. Pete $85. Sarasota $40. Pets welcome. Very dependable. Reasonable rates. Contact Jeanne. 941-7795095
PERRY: Retires as Bradenton
Beach city attorney
FROM PAGE 17
She said for the past six months, the commission has allowed her to transition half of her legal work to attorney Robert Lincoln, whom she characterized as an “outstanding attorney.”
“I am confident as I retire, the city is in his capable hands and he will continue to provide for the needs of this community,”
Perry said. “Thank you, Bradenton Beach commissioners, for trusting me, for challenging me and for letting me part of your story.”
Perry said she has been working on her retirement plan for a long time and presented three binders containing details of ongoing projects and records.
“The last thing I want to do is put you in the lurch where you don’t have the documents with everything that I’ve been working on,” she said.
Perry said she will be leaving the city but if there is anything else that’s needed, she will be willing to provide it.
“We’re a small group, we work hard and 21 years, it’s hard to make sure everyone has everything,” she said.
“I’m sorry and I thank you for everything.”
Perry then asked to be dismissed from the meeting.
“Thank you,” Chappie said as she left. “You will be missed.”
“We’ll be talking with Robert Lincoln as filling in as an interim
at this point,” Chappie said. “See what his thoughts are. He’s already under contract and it would just be a matter of seeing if he’s willing to expand his scope of services. We’ve already talked to him a little bit.”
Chappie said a special meeting would likely be called and the city would put out a Request for Proposal (RFP) for a permanent replacement.
“We’ll be doing that as quickly as possible,” he said. “That’s all I have to say on that.”
JOE HENDRICKS | SUN Robert Lincoln will serve as the interim city attorney.
