Anna Maria Island Sun November 15, 2023

- Named Best Florida Newspaper In Its Class -

VOL 24 No. 12

November 15, 2023

Christmas tree lighting to spark holiday season The tree lighting on Nov. 18 will feature caroling, visits with Santa and the movie, ‘Elf.’

BY LESLIE LAKE SUN CORRESPONDENT | llake@amisun.com

Annexation into Bradenton a consolidation option RUSTY CHINNIS | SUN

The three Anna Maria Island cities could be consolidated into one new city, or absorbed by Bradenton or Manatee County.

If AMI’s three cities are consolidated into either Bradenton or Manatee County, property taxes would increase for Island property owners.

SEE TREE, PAGE 32

The biggest concern I have with this study is

P&Z board approves hotel project

that neither the residents nor city officials asked for it.”

BY LESLIE LAKE

Judy Titsworth, Holmes Beach mayor

BY JOE HENDRICKS

SUN CORRESPONDENT | llake@amisun.com

SUN CORRESPONDENT | jhendricks@amisun.com

ANNA MARIA ISLAND – Holmes Beach Mayor Judy Titsworth said she was told the city of Bradenton will be included in the Anna Maria Island consolidation study being conducted by the Florida Office of Program Policy Analysis and Government Accountability (OPPAGA).

On Nov. 8, Titsworth had her first study-related virtual meeting with OPPAGA representatives.

Later that day, she contacted The Sun and said OPPAGA Staff Director of Government Operations Emily Leventhal told her the city of Bradenton will be included in the consolidation study and will be considered as one of several potential annexation options if the three Island cities and city

Page 31

governments are to be eliminated by the state.

Titsworth said she was told that Bradenton Mayor Gene Brown would soon receive a letter from OPPAGA informing him that the city of Bradenton will be included in the consolidation study and may be considered as an annexation option. Titsworth said there were two other witnesses in the room with her during her meeting with OPPAGA representatives.

The following day, Titsworth posted a lengthy consolidation study-related statement at the city of Holmes Beach’s Facebook page titled “The Future of Anna Maria Island: The Fate of Our Cities Are at Stake.”

“In continuing to keep our

Holmes Beach residents, property owners and friends informed on issues facing our city, it is important to share with you updated information on the OPPAGA study initiated by our state leaders, and specifically what I learned during yesterday’s OPPAGA Entrance Conference,” Titsworth stated.

“Legislative leadership has tasked this research team, with the support of the entire Manatee Delegation, to conduct an immediate study and to review the potential benefits of consolidation of municipal services and/or government structures for Anna Maria Island.

SEE ANNEXATION, PAGE 19

VETERANS HONORED at Anna Maria's Old Soldiers and Sailors Parade. 11

Anna Maria Island, Florida

BRADENTON BEACH – The Christmas season will be sparked with the illumination of more than 20,000 lights on a 42’ Christmas tree on Saturday, Nov. 18.

The Light Up Bridge Street family event from 5:308:30 p.m. is free. In addition to the tree lighting at dark, there will be caroling, pictures with Santa, face-painting, hot chocolate and a screening of the movie, “Elf.” The holiday event is sponsored by the Community Redevelopment Agency (CRA), the City of Bradenton Beach and local merchants.

“A special guest will flip the single switch to light up the small town with a big tree,” according to a press release from Sea-Renity Beach Spa owner Amanda Escobio Ryan.

Attendees will gather in the post office parking lot at 116 Bridge St. for a crowd sing-along hosted by the Sweet Adelines Magic of Manatee, an award-winning a cappella women’s chorus.

The Island’s award-winning weekly newspaper

BRADENTON BEACH – In the second Planning and Zoning Board public hearing on a proposed 106-room hotel project, the board on Monday unanimously recommended that Bradenton Beach commissioners approve the project with conditions.

The property on Bridge Street and Gulf Drive South, owned by Shawn Kaleta, a local developer, and Jacob Spooner, a Bradenton Beach city commissioner, would also feature a 60-seat restaurant, 2,485 square feet of retail space and 99 parking spaces.

Monday’s six-hour hearing was a continuation of a Nov. 1 meeting where P&Z members raised questions about parking, potential water shortages and traffic impacts. Twelve people voiced their opposition, with 13 additional emails received in opposition to the project.

One Bradenton Beach homeowner indicated that he is prepared to file a lawsuit if the project is approved.

On Nov. 1, public comment was closed at the meeting’s conclusion, so the public was not given an opportunity to speak on Monday.

The Bradenton Beach Commission will discuss the project on Thursday, Nov. 16 at noon.

TWO THANKSGIVING community

dinners offered. 9

SEE CANDY CANES in the making on

Bridge Street on Friday. 3

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NOVEMBER 15, 2023

NOVEMBER 15, 2023

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Candy cane-making tradition will be demonstrated at Fudge Factory Candymaker Peter Vriner uses the same techniques and tools his grandfather used in 1898.

BY LESLIE LAKE SUN CORRESPONDENT | llake@amisun.com

BRADENTON BEACH – A sweet holiday tradition that began with Peter Vriner’s grandfather in 1898 in Champaign, Illinois lives on in Bradenton Beach.

Using his grandfather’s recipe and original equipment, Vriner will demonstrate the 125-year-old candy cane-making techniques at the Fudge Factory, 117 Bridge St. on Friday, Nov. 17 at 6 p.m.

“It’s exactly the same way it was done in 1898,” Vriner said.

His grandfather, Peter George Vrinios, a Greek immigrant who changed the family name to Vriner, opened Vriner’s Confectionary in Champaign, and over the years, the

business was run by generations of the Vriner family. The building was placed on the National Register of Historic Places in 1983, and was visited by many celebrities.

“President Kennedy gave a speech in the back of a railroad car right there by the confectionary,” Vriner said. “He had one of our candy canes and said it was the best he ever had.”

He said Al Capone had been a regular customer who enjoyed marshmallow sundaes. Eleanor Roosevelt enjoyed their chocolate sodas. Roger Ebert visited almost daily when he worked at the NewsGazette, and REO Speedwagon’s R.E.O./T.W.O. album cover was photographed at the confectionary shop.

The shop closed in 1997, and when Vriner decided to move to Florida in 2004, he couldn’t bear to leave the candymaking equipment behind.

“I didn’t know what I was going to

do with a 100-pound marble table, copper kettles and gas burners, but I didn’t want to drop the tradition, so I brought it all with me,” he said.

He said he approached Ben Kaminecki at the Fudge Factory in 2004 and asked if he would be interested in working as a team on the candy canes during the holiday season.

“He said yes and we’ve been partners ever since,” Vriner said.

Vriner begins with cooking the mixture and after 30 minutes, pours it out onto the same 100-pound 6x4-foot marble slab that his grandfather used.

“Then I add the peppermint flavor and ball it up, then I use a hook to turn it,” he said. “I put the three colors together on a heated table and pull out about 100 canes.”

The public is invited to watch the demonstration, and children may form their own candy canes for purchase.

LESLIE LAKE | SUN

Peter Vriner will demonstrate the art of candy cane making at the Fudge Factory on Friday, Nov. 17.

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4 THE SUN

ISLAND NEWS

IN BRIEF Gulf Island Ferry hosting inaugural cruise

Manatee County and the Bradenton Area Convention and Visitors Bureau (CVB) will host the official Gulf Island Ferry inaugural launch on Monday, Nov. 20 CVB | SUBMITTED near the new Bradenton The Gulf Island Ferry service is Riverwalk observation expected to begin on Dec. 8. tower. On Nov. 9, Manatee County Information Outreach Manager Bill Logan emailed invitations to invited guests and media members. “Witness the blessing of the fleet and embark on the maiden voyage of ‘Miss Anna Maria’ and ‘Downtown Duchess,’ ” Logan stated in the invitation/press release. The ceremony will begin at 10 a.m. with the national anthem, a prayer and remarks from Manatee County Commission Chairman Kevin Van Ostenbridge, followed by the blessing of the two-boat ferry fleet. At 10:30 a.m., guests will board the two ferries for an inaugural round-trip ride to the Anna Maria City Pier and back. Complimentary MCAT bus rides back to downtown Bradenton will be available for those who only wish to take the estimated 40-minute one-way trip down the Manatee River from downtown Bradenton to Anna Maria. According to CVB Executive Director Elliott Falcione, the Gulf Island Ferry service is expected to open publicly on Friday, Dec. 8. For more information, visit www. bradentongulfislands.com/gulf-islands-ferry.

Eight AMI commissioners retain seats Running unopposed, eight incumbent city commissioners on Anna Maria Island were “reelected” on Nov. 7 with no votes cast by their respective constituents.

Anna Maria commissioners Jon Crane and Charlie Salem received additional two-year terms in office.

In January, Crane, Salem and Commission Chair Mark Short will appoint two new commissioners to return the commission to its full, five-member status. Bradenton Beach Mayor John Chappie and city commissioners Jake Spooner and Jan Vosburgh received additional two-year terms in office. Holmes Beach commissioners Pat Morton, Terry Schaefer and Carol Soustek also received additional two-year terms.

Consolidation study update on Thursday’s agenda The Anna Maria City Commission will meet on Thursday, Nov. 16 at 6 p.m. The mayor and the commission chair will provide an update on their recent meeting with OPPAGA representatives regarding an Island-wide consolidation study. The mayor also will read a Farm-City Week proclamation, the city planner will ask the commission to approve a two-home subdivision at 406 North Shore Drive and the mayor will initiate discussion on establishing a charter review committee. The mayor will also provide an update on two city commission vacancies to be filled by commission appointment in January.

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NOVEMBER 15, 2023

Man allegedly burglarizes car in front of police An odd turn of events led to two arrests as a man allegedly burglarized a vehicle in front of police investigating a different criminal incident.

BY JASON SCHAFFER SUN CORRESPONDENT | jschaffer@amisun.com

HOLMES BEACH – A police investigation of an incident involving leaving the scene of an accident led to an unrelated arrest when a man allegedly burglarized the car involved in the investigation.

The Nov. 1 incident began at 5:18 p.m. as Holmes Beach Police Department Officer Alexander Hurt was dispatched to the Doctor’s Office restaurant in reference to a hit-and-run accident.

When Hurt arrived, he saw Officer Franklin Price speaking with a heavily intoxicated man in the parking lot. Hurt was advised that the man was a passenger in a vehicle that had struck a parked vehicle.

“Myself and Officer Price began speaking with the male to figure out where the other party had gone,” Hurt said in his official report. “I met with Matthew Jeronimo, who was the on-duty bar manager at the time of the incident. Jeronimo stated that he witnessed two heavily intoxicated subjects walk into the bar and request service.

Jeronimo advised that due to their extremely intoxicated state, they were both refused service and asked to leave.”

Hurt said Jeronimo advised him that after a brief argument with the two men, they both left. He then saw them walk to a car and meet a female subject, later identified as Amelia Saavedra, 44, of Bradenton, who got into the driver’s seat of the car. Jeronimo said Saavedra then put the car in reverse and struck a pink Toyota parked next to her vehicle, before driving away south on Holmes Boulevard. Jeronimo said the vehicle that was struck belonged to an employee of the bar, and he quickly ran outside to get the plate number before calling police.

“While in the middle of our investigation, a female matching the description of the driver stumbled up to us and began yelling at the male we were speaking to,” Hurt said in his report. “The female was positively identified by Jeronimo as the driver of the vehicle. I placed Saavedra under arrest for leaving the scene of an accident and transported her to HBPD.” Adkins was able to locate the suspect vehicle, a white Mazda CX-5, around the corner from the scene, where it had struck a raised boardwalk attached to a business.

Saavedra claimed she never drove the vehicle and it was her boyfriend who had been driving. The two men were not charged in the incident.

Adkins waited with the white Mazda, parked in a space off Gulf Drive just west of Holmes Boulevard in front of Vinny’s Italian Kitchen, while the tow truck made its way to the scene.

“I was awaiting a tow truck to arrive for this vehicle so I was sitting about a car length and a half away on the side of Gulf Drive with my emergency lights activated,” Adkins said in his report. “I observed a white male with a neon orange shirt walk past my vehicle, past the Mazda, and then towards a pickup truck that was parked a couple spaces away. The male then turned

JASON SCHAFFER | SUN

One thing led to another as a vehicle involved in a Holmes Beach investigation was allegedly burglarized in front of police on the scene. around while also looking around and began walking towards the driver side of the Mazda.”

Adkins said it appeared the man saw the keys to the Mazda on the vehicle’s driver’s side roof, which had been placed there for the tow truck driver. He then went to the front passenger window, looked inside and opened the door. As the male subject reached into the vehicle, not noticing the police car only a few feet away, Adkins got out of his patrol vehicle and ordered the man, later identified as Adam Fleming, 34, of Bradenton, to get on the ground while pointing his taser at him.

Fleming did not comply, and while he did put his hands above his head, he did not go to the ground as ordered.

Adkins was able to get close enough to Fleming to take him to the ground and secure him in handcuffs.

“Fleming alleged he walked past my vehicle and was looking at utility markings that were painted on the ground and noticed the white SUV. He stated he then wanted his jacket and thought that the Mazda looked similar to the white Ford SUV he came to the area in earlier,” Adkins said in his report. “Due to this, he stated he then went into the vehicle to see if his jacket was there. It was clearly visible that the Mazda did not have any jacket in plain view in the area that he was entering.

I asked Fleming if he was certain that the Mazda was the car he rode in earlier and he stated no, he was not certain. I asked him why he went into the Mazda if he didn't know if the vehicle was the same one he rode in earlier and he listed reasons such as the incident was a mistake, an accident, and also alleged it happened because he was drunk. I however did not observe any obvious indicators of alcohol impairment.”

The owner of the Mazda, Saavedra, who was already under arrest, was asked if she wanted to press charges, to which she said yes. She also said she did not know Fleming and he had not ridden in the vehicle. Adkins placed Fleming under arrest for unarmed burglary to an unoccupied conveyance and for resisting an officer without violence. Fleming was taken to the Holmes Beach Police Department, then transported to Manatee County Jail.

Saavedra pled not guilty and was released on $120 bond.

Her court date is Dec. 5 in front of Judge Melissa Gould.

Fleming was later released on $2,000 bond after pleading not guilty. He is due in court on Dec. 15 to face the charges in front of Judge Stephen Whyte.

NOVEMBER 15, 2023

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Birdie for the Birdies tournament to benefit Wildlife Inc. The non-profit animal rehab organization is seeing an increase in animals needing help.

BY LESLIE LAKE

SUN CORRESPONDENT | llake@amisun.com

BRADENTON BEACH – 2023 has been a challenging year for Wildlife Education and Rehabilitation Center Inc. and a local business is stepping up to help.

With a record number of animals rehabilitated so far this year at the non-profit 2,665 at the latest count - and the loss of a funding source, an upcoming fundraiser is most welcome.

Daiquiri Deck has recently announced sponsorship opportunities for its first Birdie for the Birdies Putt Putt Tournament on Saturday, Nov. 18 at The Fish Hole miniature golf, 115 Bridge St. near Daiquiri Deck’s Bradenton Beach location.

All tournament proceeds will benefit Wildlife Inc. Since 1988, Wildlife Inc. has provided care to injured and orphaned animals. It is the only rehabilitation facility for birds, mammals and reptiles in the area.

“Our dedication knows no bounds, but we can’t do it without your support. With an annual budget nearing $200,000, we rely solely on the generosity of individuals and private grants to continue our vital work,” according to the Wildlife Inc. website.

“We receive no funding from local, state or federal governments.”

“This benefit can help in so many ways,” Wildlife Inc. volunteer Krista Carpenter said. “The Smile program from Amazon has been discontinued, as they focus on giving to specific non-profits.

That’s $8,000-$10,000 we lost.

This (tournament) could provide the perfect bridge.”

General admission for the tournament is $50 and includes

LESLIE LAKE | SUN

Three owls peer out from their temporary home at Wildlife Inc., a rehabilitation and release facility in Bradenton Beach. a round of golf for one, a brunch buffet, beverages and access to the after-party. VIP admission is $75 and includes a round of golf for one, a brunch buffet, VIP beverages and access to the after-party.

Players will be split into two groups, the first checking in at 9 a.m. and starting at 10 a.m. The second will check in at 10:30 a.m. and start at 11:30 a.m.

An after-party will follow the tournament with live music, entertainment, a raffle and silent auction and prizes. An awards ceremony begins at 2 p.m.

Brunch is served from 10 a.m. to noon and the bar will be open from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m.

“One of the big items is a fly fishing trip for two valued at over $600,” Carpenter said. “That will be a live auction item. Also there

are items from local artists.”

A limited number of tournament sponsorship opportunities are available: • Hall of Famer: $5,000 includes brunch and entry for four, eight mulligans, eight raffle tickets, VIP access, one banner for the registration table, one banner for the afterparty, emcee recognition and four Tervis tumblers; • Professional: $1,500 includes brunch and entry for four, six mulligans, six raffle tickets, VIP access, one banner for the course and four stainless steel tumblers; • Semi-Pro: $1,000 includes brunch and entry for four, four mulligans, four raffle tickets, VIP access and two hole sponsorships; • Caddy: $500 includes brunch and entry for four people, two mulligans and VIP access; • Spectator: $250 includes two sponsorships.

Ball sponsor pricing varies. To secure a sponsorship or register for tournament participation, visit daiquirideck.com.

6 THE SUN

OPINION

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The Anna Maria Island Sun Staff Owner/CEO Mike Field Editor Cindy Lane General Manager Bob Alexander Reporters/Photographers Joe Hendricks Leslie Lake Jason Schaffer Kristin Swain Columnists Louise Bolger Rusty Chinnis Contributors Steve Borggren Capt. Rick Grassett Isis Mavenyengwa Monica Simpson Tom Vaught Anne Yarbrough Layout Ricardo Fonseca Digital Editor Kristin Swain Advertising Director Shona Otto Advertising Assistant Pamela Lee Classifieds Bob Alexander Graphics Elaine Stroili Ricardo Fonseca Distribution Bob Alexander Connor Field Tony McNulty Brian Smith Accounting Leslie Ketchum Co-founding publishers Mike Field Maggie McGinley Field Family-owned since 2000

LETTERS TO THE EDITOR

Consolidate services, not cities

I would like to offer the following comments on the state-ordered study regarding the consolidation of beach towns. As a former CFO/ Finance Director of several small towns (Steamboat Springs, CO; Castle Rock, CO; Riverside, IL; Dunedin, FL) I have thought about this often. Every small town has the same governmental requirements. I was focused on finance and accounting but have seen other service consolidations that have been successful and have saved the taxpayers money, for example, the Pinellas County Sherriff’s Office handling policing activities for Dunedin, Florida and other towns.

Every town, city, village, parish, etc. provides many of the same basic services to their residents.

Water and sewer, police and fire, planning, building and zoning, parks and recreation, etc. and

to support whatever staff the town has is an administrative department and an accounting/ finance department. Every city has reporting requirements to the county, state and federal governments, their councils, or commissions, etc. and every city has a payroll and accounts payable and bills to be sent to customers. This is expensive for a city, especially for small cities.

While many services can be outsourced, for example, utility billing and payment processing, there are economies of scale to handling several cities together, versus each individually.

I would not propose combining towns, but rather consolidation of services where it makes sense, i.e., reduction of efforts and cost savings, and that this be done at the town’s pleasure.

I would strongly oppose any state- or county-level mandate that takes away the powers of town government and/or home

rule. In this country we believe in “government by the people for the people” (Abraham Lincoln).

That to me says that we believe in government from the bottom up, not the top down; however, cities (towns, parishes, villages, etc.) obtain all their power from the state. Each state has similar but different laws about municipal government.

The most precious powers a city in Florida has are its home rule powers. The ability to establish its form of government through its charter, and to then enact ordinances, codes, plans and resolutions without prior state approval is a tremendous authority. To further be able to enforce them “at home” and to make necessary changes as a city grows is a great reflection of the trust that citizens have in their respective city leaders.

Karen Feeney Longboat Key

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

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.

NOVEMBER 15, 2023

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ON THE AGENDA ANNA MARIA

10005 GULF DRIVE FOR INFORMATION, CALL 941-708-6130

Please visit www.cityofannamaria.com or contact city hall for more information.

Nov. 16, 6 p.m. – City Commission meeting Nov. 23, all day – City offices closed, Thanksgiving Nov. 24, all day – City offices closed, Black Friday Nov. 24, 9 a.m. – Planning and Zoning Board meeting

BRADENTON BEACH

107 GULF DRIVE N. FOR INFORMATION, CALL 941-778-1005

Please visit www.cityofbradentonbeach.com or contact city hall for more information.

Nov. 15, 1 p.m. – Scenic WAVES meeting Nov. 16, noon – City Commission meeting Nov. 23, all day – City offices closed, Thanksgiving Nov. 23, all day – City offices closed, Black Friday

HOLMES BEACH

5801 MARINA DRIVE FOR INFORMATION, CALL 941-708-5800

Please visit www.holmesbeachfl.org or contact city hall for more information.

Nov. 15, 5 p.m. – Planning Commission meeting Nov. 23, all day – City offices closed, Thanksgiving Nov. 24, all day – City offices closed, Black Friday Nov. 28, 10 a.m. – Code Compliance special magistrate hearing

ISLAND-WIDE

Dec. 4, 9 a.m. – Manatee County Tourist Development Council meeting, The Center of Anna Maria Island, 407 Magnolia Ave., Anna Maria

THE SUN

EVENTS WEDNESDAY, NOV. 15

Creative Aging: Drawing Series, Island Branch Library, 5701 Marina Drive, Holmes Beach, 10 a.m.

Holocaust Speaker Series: Helga Melmed, Island Branch Library, 5701 Marina Drive, Holmes Beach, 2 p.m.

One-on-one tech help, Island Branch Library, 5701 Marina Drive, Holmes Beach, 2-4 p.m.

THURSDAY, NOV. 16

Island Morning Book Club, Island Branch Library, 5701 Marina Drive, Holmes Beach, 10:15 a.m.

Sunshine Stitchers Knit and Crochet, Island Branch Library, 5701 Marina Drive, Holmes Beach, 1 p.m.

Thursdays in Paradise Stroll featuring local art, music and food, Bridge Street, Bradenton Beach, 5-8 p.m.

AMI Chamber Business Card Exchange, Urgent Dental Care, 1906 59th St. W., Ste. C, Bradenton, 5 p.m., $5 for members or $10 for prospective members

FRIDAY, NOV. 17

AMI Garden Club Plant Sale, Roser Church, 512 Pine Ave., 9 a.m. to 1 p.m.

Forty Carrots, Island Branch Library, 5701 Marina Drive, Holmes Beach, 10 a.m.

Mah-jongg for experienced players, Island Branch Library, 5701 Marina Drive, Holmes Beach, 11:30 a.m.

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AMI Chamber Member Gala, Bradenton Country Club, 4646 Ninth Ave. W., Bradenton, 6 p.m., $65 per person or $570 per table

SATURDAY, NOV. 18

Robinson Runners, Robinson Preserve, 1704 99th St. N.W., Bradenton, 7 a.m.

Mornings at the NEST, Robinson Preserve Mosaic Nest, 840 99th St. N.W., Bradenton, 9 a.m. to noon Teen Art Club: Moss Wall Art, Island Branch Library, 5701 Marina Drive, Holmes Beach, 2 p.m.

Christmas tree lighting, Bridge Street, Bradenton Beach, 5:30 p.m.

SUNDAY, NOV. 19

Thanks-Living, City Pier Park, 103 N. Bay Blvd., Anna Maria, 4 p.m.

MONDAY, NOV. 20

Gentle yoga, Island Branch Library, 5701 Marina Drive, Holmes Beach, 10 a.m.

TUESDAY, NOV. 21

Farmer’s Market, City Pier Park, 103 N. Bay Blvd., Anna Maria, 8:30 a.m. to 2 p.m.

Mah-jongg for experienced players, Island Branch Library, 5701 Marina Drive, Holmes Beach, 11:30 a.m.

Rotary Club of Anna Maria Island meeting, Bridge Street Bistro, 111 Gulf Drive S., Bradenton Beach, 11:30 a.m.

8 THE SUN

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NOVEMBER 15, 2023

Stone Crab Festival draws crowd to Cortez

BY LESLIE LAKE

SUN CORRESPONDENT | llake@amisun.com

CORTEZ – The stone crab harvest season was celebrated under sunny skies at the two-day 11th Annual Cortez Stone Crab and Music Festival.

Held on Nov. 11-12 at the Swordfish Grill and Tiki Bar parking area, the festival typically draws more than 5,000 attendees with more than 2,000 pounds of stone crab consumed.

Live music, local seafood, crafts and a kids zone were featured.

“The festival celebrates the heritage of Cortez and the kickoff to stone crab season,” said Adam Sears, general manager of Swordfish Grill.

This year’s theme was “Crack a Cold One” since stone crab claws are served cracked and cold.

Stone crab season runs from Oct. 15 to May 1. Stone crabs are harvested for their claws and then returned to the water, where the claws will regenerate.

The festival was the brainchild of John Banyas, a fourth-generation fisherman from Cortez and owner of the Swordfish Grill, Cortez Kitchen, Cortez Bait and Seafood Inc., and N.E. Taylor Boatworks named for Banyas’ grandfather.

JOE HENDRICKS | SUN

Above, servings of fresh stone crab claws sold as fast as they were cracked. Right, a large tent provided a shaded area to eat, drink and listen to live music.

The Cortez Kitchen is closed for renovations and is expected to be open around the end of November, but during the festival, the space was used for festivalgoers to enjoy Rum Nuts coconut-filled rum drinks.

Saturday’s music lineup on the festival main stage was Mikey Silbaugh of Concrete Edgar, Mushroom Soup, Uncle John’s Band and Doug Deming and the Jewel Tones. On the Swordfish Grill Tiki Deck, the Saturday music line-up was Ted Stevens, the Stockton Brothers and Tim Chandler.

The festival’s main stage music lineup on Sunday was Ted Stevens and the Doo Shots, Berry Oakley and Friends, Twinkle

and Rock Soul Radio and Trever Bystrom’s RX featuring Zion Albert. On Sunday, at the Swordfish Grill Tiki Deck were Taylor Opie, the Billy Rice Trio and Steel Vibes.

The festival has a charitable component.

All proceeds from draft beer sales will benefit the non-profit Blessing Bags Project. The Bradenton-based organization is dedicated to providing basic critical needs to the homeless and less fortunate.

Blessing Bags volunteers manned the draft beer area.

“Big Storm Brewery is graciously donating the beer trailer,” Sears said.

Parking was available at the FISH (Florida Institute for Saltwater Heritage)

Preserve, adjacent to the festival and was manned by FISH volunteers. Parking proceeds benefited the non-profit FISH. Festival sponsors were Anna Maria Banana Boat Rides, A. Shadow Designs, Big Storm Brewery, Blenker Boat Works and Marina, Cortez Bait and Seafood, Florida Fishing Fleet, Fun Boat Tours, Visit Gulf Islands of Manatee County, N.E. Taylor Boatworks, The Suncoast Post, Sande Caplin and Associates, Swordfish Grill, The Anchor Inn, Wieffenbach and Reinhart Law, Wine Bow, Ameris Bank, Anderson Dock and Seawall, Duncan Real Estate, Junk-it-away, Spectrum Reach and Taylor High Pressure Washing.

NOVEMBER 15, 2023

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JOE HENDRICKS | SUN

The first Thanks-Living gathering drew neighbors together in 2019.

Thanks-Living gathering Sunday Open to all, the annual ThanksLiving community potluck on Sunday, Nov. 19 from 4-6 p.m. will be outdoors at City Pier Park in Anna Maria.

Thanks-Living attendees are asked to bring their own drinks and a dish to share with others, and are also asked to bring non-perishable food items to donate to the Roser Food Pantry.

Cash and check donations for the food pantry will also be accepted.

JOE HENDRICKS | SUN

Thanks-Living provides an opportunity to mingle with neighbors and community members.

Annie Silver Center to host Thanksgiving luncheon The Annie Silver Community Center will host a community Thanksgiving luncheon on Saturday, Nov. 18 from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. Annie Silver membership is not required and anyone in the community is welcome; just stop by

the center at 103 23rd St. N., Bradenton Beach. The center’s monthly book sale is also scheduled that day.

Proceeds benefit the 501(c)(3) nonprofit community organization.

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NOVEMBER 15, 2023

Turtle Watch exceeds fundraising record Turtle Watch Wednesday was renamed this year in honor of the late Turtle Watch Executive Director Suzi Fox.

BY LESLIE LAKE

SUN CORRESPONDENT | llake@amisun.com

ANNA MARIA ISLAND – More than 200 people showed up for the sea turtles, shorebirds and Anna Maria Island Turtle Watch and Shorebird Monitoring at the Suzi Fox Fifth Annual Turtle Watch Wednesday fundraiser.

Formerly known as Turtle Watch Wednesday, the Nov. 8 event was renamed in honor of the late Turtle Watch Executive Director Suzi Fox. "We were thrilled to have Nanci Banman, Suzi’s sister, and Dereck Norfleet, Suzi’s son, in attendance,” event organizer Sharon Hoatland said. “Knowing Suzi Fox was there in spirit and was filled with joy, a toast was made to her as she will never be forgotten.”

The event raised a record amount of funds for the non-profit.

“It was a very successful event,” Hoatland said. “We raised approximately $30,000 and

donations are still coming in. Last year we raised $22,000, so this far exceeded our expectations.”

“Most likely we’ll be looking at major new equipment for the organization, possibly a sub-meter GPS, which can tell us exactly where a nest is,” Turtle Watch Executive Director Kristen Mazzarella said. “We also may be looking at funds to contribute to a new ATV - ours are pretty old - or repairs on the ones we have.”

Funds will also help produce outreach materials to allow Turtle Watch to give back to the community, she said.

The fundraiser was held in front of Hurricane Hanks and included silent and live auction items, raffles, T-shirt sales, VIP tickets and a 50/50 raffle.

Local businesses and individuals donated more than 100 silent auction items and nine live auction items.

“A big thanks to Bob Slicker, auctioneer extraordinaire; not only did he entertain the crowd, but he also had three items that were sold two times each,” Hoatland said. “There was Hook Line and Slickers, a fishing charter with

LESLIE LAKE | SUN

A Yeti cooler filled with cheer was a popular auction item.

Capt. Pete and catch (dinner) to be cooked and served at Slicker’s Eatery, AMITW Turtle Patrol Experience and AMI Beach Buggy that all totaled approximately $5,250.”

Mike Sales entertained and helped MC the fundraiser.

“Mike sang ‘Born on an Island,’ a song he wrote for Turtle Watch Wednesday,” Hoatland said.

A Yeti cooler filled with goodies, donated by A Paradise Realty, raised over $2,100 in a raffle.

“The energy in the crowd that came from all over was amazing,” Hoatland said. “All with one goal in mind - to help our beloved turtles.”

Since 1983, the non-profit has coordinated conservation efforts for Island sea turtles - primarily loggerheads and green sea turtles - and monitored shorebird nesting.

“In three decades, we monitored 17,735 turtle activities and protected 8,723 nests. This includes at least 301,694 turtle eggs and 377,743 hatchlings that departed the beach to become a future generation of loggerheads that will return to the region as they reach maturity in about 30 years,” according to the Turtle Watch website.

Sponsors for the fundraiser are the Anna Maria Island Sun, A Paradise Realty and Vacation Rentals, Hurricane Hanks, CabanUp, Mike Sales, Slicker’s Eatery, Harbor Land Court Vacation Rentals, Anna Maria Island eBikes and Edibles ‘n More Old Time County Store.

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11

Anna Maria honors veterans, spouses Anna Maria’s annual “Old Soldiers & Sailors” parade honors those who served our country.

BY JOE HENDRICKS

SUN CORRESPONDENT | jhendricks@amisun.com

ANNA MARIA – The city’s eighth annual “Old Soldiers & Sailors” parade and veterans recognition ceremony paid tribute on Nov. 10 to those who served and still serve in the U.S. military.

At 9 a.m., the Manatee High School JROTC led the parade down Pine Avenue to City Pier Park. Parade Grand Marshal, Vietnam combat veteran, retired U.S. Army Major and former Holmes Beach Mayor Bob Johnson followed in a cityowned Jeep, accompanied by his wife, Denise.

Next came the Lakewood Ranch High School marching band, followed by a group of local veterans, a Gem cart carrying U.S. Congressman Vern Buchanan and his wife, Sandy, and a golf cart driven by Mayor Dan Murphy, accompanied by his wife, Barbara.

The parade featured the Braden River High School marching band, two West Manatee Fire Rescue vehicles, a group of children from The Center of Anna Maria Island, a blue Ford Mustang carrying three veterans, a group of Tampa Bay Buccaneer cheerleader alumni, the Manatee High School marching band and

JOE HENDRICKS | SUN

Above, the veterans’ recognition ceremony at City Pier Park drew a full house. Above right, 101-year-old World War II Army veteran John Skeen rode the parade route. a pickup truck carrying 101-yearold World War II Army veteran John Skeen pulling a trailer sign that said, “Military Matters.”

The Southeast High School marching band arrived late and missed the parade but played near the foot of the City Pier after the veterans’ ceremony ended.

Before the ceremony began, Buchanan said, “It’s a great parade and we have a lot of veterans out here today.”

Regarding his role as grand marshal, Johnson said, “I served in the Army for 21 years, from 1964 to 1985. Participating in something like this triggers a lot of memories.”

Held under the City Pier Park shade sail structure, the recognition ceremony began with Murphy’s welcoming remarks, the invocation by Rev. Gordon Zanetti, the presentation of the colors by the Manatee High School JROTC and the national anthem performed

by the Lakewood High School marching band.

Murphy recognized Johnson as the parade marshal and thanked Buchanan, an Air National Guard veteran, for the federal legislation and assistance he’s championed as a member of the House Committee on Veterans’ Affairs.

Standing at the podium, Buchanan said, “It’s truly an honor to be here today to pay tribute to the brave men and women who have proudly served in our Armed Forces. President Calvin Coolidge once said, ‘A nation which forgets its defenders will be itself forgotten.’ On this Veterans Day, let’s take a moment to offer our deepest gratitude to all who served.”

Murphy then called forward the city staff members and thanked them for their planning and hard work.

When calling forward the veterans’ wives, spouses and significant others, Murphy said,

“I’d like to welcome and thank the most important people in every veteran’s life. I know how difficult your job was while we went off on our adventures.

Thank you for everything you did to support us during that period of time,” Murphy said.

Each wife, spouse and significant other received a yellow rose.

Before calling the veterans forward according to the military branch in which they served, Murphy said, “These are individuals who offered up their time, their careers and even their lives, if necessary, to defend our country. These are our veterans.”

Each veteran received a ceremonial medal that commemorates the “Old Soldiers & Sailors” parade and the city of Anna Maria’s 100-year anniversary.

“These are the folks that put their lives on the line to defend our country. We owe them a big round of applause and big ‘thank you’ for what they’ve done,”

Murphy said.

Murphy then invited everyone to attend the ice cream social at the nearby Anna Maria Island Historical Museum, featuring free ice cream donated by Tyler’s Gourmet Ice Cream.

After the ceremony, U.S. Army veteran and current Manatee County Veteran of the Year Rick Jensen said, “Anna Maria does a fantastic job every year for Veterans Day and Memorial Day. It means everything to see all the veterans who served this county and did their duty.”

When sharing his final thoughts, Murphy said, “I’m pleased with the turnout we had. It’s so important for the veterans in our community to be recognized and honored. As a veteran myself, this event is very moving for me; and the colors being presented and the national anthem being played evoke a deep sense of patriotism.”

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SUBMITTED

Flamingo festivities Wagner Realty’s Anna Maria Island office sponsored a “Flock to the Florida Flamingo Fiesta” welcome event at the Runaway Bay Condominium Homeowners Association in Bradenton Beach. More than 120 owners and guests attended the Nov. 6 flamingo festivities, including a tacky tourist and hula hoop contest. Guests enjoyed a variety of foods, and were able to watch Rae Ellen Hayo, Wagner Realty agent and awesome cook, as she prepared her famous seafood paella.

Anna Maria Garden Club to hold plant sale The Anna Maria Garden Club will hold its annual plant sale on Friday, Nov. 17 from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. at Roser Church, 512 Pine Ave., Anna Maria. This event will feature a bake sale, with herbs and native plants for sale. Proceeds support local beautification projects on the Island.

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14 THE SUN

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15

Symphony salutes veterans Symphony on the Sand brought out hundreds of people for an evening of food, music and appreciation of the veterans of the U.S. Armed Forces.

BY JASON SCHAFFER

SUN CORRESPONDENT | jschaffer@amisun.com

BRADENTON BEACH - It was a feast for all five senses as hundreds gathered at Coquina Beach for the 2023 Symphony on the Sand.

The smell of gourmet food filled the air as the 45-piece Anna Maria Island Concert Chorus & Orchestra (AMICCO), under the accomplished baton of Maestro Alfred Gershfeld entertained the crowd with the backdrop that only a Gulf coast sunset can provide.

“This is literally the most beautiful thing I have ever seen, and I’ve traveled the world,” said Lisa Stadtler, visiting the Island from New Jersey.

“I asked my husband where the heck we were. This doesn’t even seem real. The weather is perfect, the

JASON SCHAFFER | SUN

Beachgoers may not have had the opportunity to enjoy the food and drinks that came with buying a ticket to this year’s Symphony on the Sand in Bradenton Beach, but they were welcome to dance on the beach during a beautiful sunset while enjoying the music. sunset is stunning and this music is just amazing.”

The Nov. 11 event celebrated Veterans Day, and veterans were at the center of the show. Every table was adorned with American flags, and the AMICCO proudly played plenty of patriotic tunes to honor the many veterans in attendance. People danced in the white sand and waved flags as the music filled the air.

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Hundreds attended this year’s Symphony on the Sand in Bradenton Beach, and hundreds more watched from the beach.

“America has its problems, but I think no matter how much we may disagree on politics or policy, we all agree our veterans are what have secured our place as the best country in the world,” Sam Crowder said.

“We live over in Bradenton and try to never miss this. It rained last year, but this weather is just amazing; what a blessing.”

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The Bishop Museum of Science and Nature 201 10th Street West • Bradenton, FL 34205 941-746-4131 • info@bishopscience.org www.BishopScience.org

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Holiday shoppers flock to Market Night Holmes Beach Market Night offered extended shopping hours at local businesses and a chance to mingle with friends.

BY JASON SCHAFFER

SUN CORRESPONDENT | jschaffer@amisun.com

HOLMES BEACH - This year’s second Holmes Beach Market Night on Nov. 10 drew no shortage of people coming out to holiday shop during extended hours at retailers in and around the Island Shopping Center.

“We couldn’t find a parking space. This place is packed,” Julie Wilcox said.

“I’m glad we did though,

because this is really cool.

There’s a pirate playing a ukulele on the sidewalk and everybody has ice cream on their face. This is a blast!”

Market Night replaces the former Art Walks from years past. Since Island Gallery West moved its Holmes Beach gallery to Bradenton, a rebranding was in order.

“We went around over the summer dropping off letters and letting businesses know what we were going to do,” Artists’ Guild of Anna Maria Island President Janet Razze said. “We changed the name to Market Night so more people would participate. Island Gallery West relocated, and we wish them well, but we felt like it’s not

JASON SCHAFFER | SUN

Artists’ Guild of Anna Maria Island President Janet Razze draws winning tickets for the paintings created by member artists during the ‘Artist Paint-a-Round’ at the Nov. 10 Holmes Beach Market Night. really an Art Walk anymore, so we wanted to get all of these businesses together.”

The family-friendly event sponsored by the City of

Holmes Beach and Bradenton Area Arts and Culture is held on the second Friday of the month, with the exception of next month, when

it will be on Friday, Dec. 1 to coincide with the Anna Maria Island Chamber of Commerce’s tree lighting.

The event continues through April 12, 2024 featuring the Island Shopping Center and the following merchants: Artists’ Guild Gallery of Anna Maria Island, D Coy Ducks, Small Town Creamery, howluckyami, Pizzano’s Pizza, Irene’s Clothing Store, Sand Dollar, The Feast, Hurricane Hank’s, Freckled Fin and The Doctor’s Office. Each business will stay open late, featuring live music, demos, refreshments and more.

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18 THE SUN

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Roser Church

“...a beautiful place to explore your faith...”

SUNDAY WORSHIP 8:30 AM & 10:00 AM

IN PERSON • in the Sanctuary Nursery • Children’s Church ONLINE • Watch LIVE or LATER

RoserChurch.com

Sign up to receive the eBulletin at RoserChurch.com/contact-us The CHAPEL is open during office hours for prayer and meditation 941-778-0414 • 512 Pine Ave, Anna Maria • FOLLOW us on Facebook @RoserChurch

NOVEMBER 15, 2023

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19

ANNEXATION: Into Bradenton a consolidation option FROM PAGE 1 “During the conference, it was revealed that the city of Bradenton and Manatee County are also included in this study, though they have not yet received correspondence from the research team. There will be large record requests starting next week that the cities will need to respond to, along with more tailored follow-up requests, interviews and potential site visits that will be conducted along the way.

“The research team is anticipating a completion date for July 2024 to present their results to legislative leadership. These recommendations will then be presented to the senior leadership person, most likely (state Representatives) Will Robinson or Jim Boyd. If leadership decides that the report should be published, it will then be available to the cities and the public. Otherwise, the findings and recommendations remain confidential and exempt from public disclosure. It is anticipated that the data gathered and analyzed will provide state leaders with the information needed to determine the fate of our cities,” Titsworth stated.

“The biggest concern I have with this study is that neither the residents nor city officials asked for it. They were not consulted about the development of the scope Robinson Jr. and remain unaware of the motivations behind this emboldened act of the Legislature. It is my understanding that we are the only coastal cities in Florida being threatened by consolidation, though we may not Boyd be the last as there have been more than 80 bills passed by the state Legislature in recent years that have greatly diluted home rule.

“It is unclear what the path forward looks like if state leaders move to consolidate, especially when it is an act not supported by the cities and citizens which are directly impacted.

Is a referendum by the people even necessary when the decision is made at the state level? Is the governor tasked to appoint a board to write a new charter, zoning districts, comprehensive plan and land development

codes? Is a new charter even needed, or will one city absorb the others; and if so, which city?

“Will the new board respect current density and height restrictions?

If there is a new charter, are the grandfathered minimum length of stay restrictions for resort housing to be preserved or will they be removed, turning neighborhoods into motels?

“I urge all citizens to pay attention to decisions being made at the local and state level. Do these leaders have your best interests at heart? These decisions will have a profound effect on quality-of-life issues. Our unique small-town identities and a century of history could soon be lost to consolidation and to the neighboring city of Bradenton," Titsworth stated.

Anna Maria Mayor Dan Murphy and City Commission Chair Mark Short participated in their first virtual meeting with OPPAGA representatives on Nov. 7.

When asked about that meeting later in the week, Murphy said, “Commissioner Mark Short and I did indeed meet with OPPAGA representatives this week. I feel obligated to first inform our city commissioners as to the

status of the study. I will discuss what was covered at our next city commission meeting on Thursday, Nov. 16.”

Last week, Bradenton Beach Mayor John Chappie also participated in his first virtual meeting with OPPAGA representatives. As of Monday afternoon, Chappie had not responded to The Sun’s requests for comment on his meeting with OPPAGA officials.

STUDY REQUESTED

OPPAGA serves as the research and analysis arm of the Florida Legislature and supports the Legislature by providing data, evaluation, research and objective analyses used to make legislative decisions.

Since the AMI consolidation study was first requested in January by the Manatee County legislative delegation, the general assumption was if the cities of Anna Maria, Bradenton Beach and Holmes Beach were consolidated by the Florida Legislature, the three Island cities would either be consolidated into one Island city and city government, or the three cities would be annexed into Manatee County and

SEE ANNEXATION, PAGE 25

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NOVEMBER 15, 2023

Your Perfect Wedding Awaits…

From breathtaking beach vistas and perfect sunsets on Anna Maria to our famous buttonwood trees on Longboat Key and rural and rustic farm in Parrish, couples can’t go wrong with Anna Maria Island venues. Most famous of our locations, The Grand Pavilion at The Sandbar has been a favorite beachfront wedding spot for decades. Tucked among the sea oats and native grasses, the Pavilion is 10 steps from your own secret slice of sugar-sand beach. The Sunset Deck at the Beach House offers the largest beachfront deck of any of Florida’s West Coast venues. This stateof-the-art facility boasts climate-controlled dining and an unobstructed view of the Gulf of Mexico. Buttonwood Bay at Mar Vista is a location that couples dream about. With majestic buttonwood trees, beachfront footage, and Longboat Key in your sights, your camera needs to be your plus one. The Studio at Gulf & Pine offers indoor elegance surrounded by local art, just steps from the beach. Not far from Anna Maria Island is Gamble Creek Farm, our newest wedding and events destination. With acres of farmland, creek front scenery, and plenty of privacy, Gamble Creek is the perfect venue for the couple looking for that rustic, farm to table experience.

For multiple years now, couples of "The Knot" and “Wedding Wire” have voted The Grand Pavilion at The Sandbar and the Sunset Deck at The Beach House top-rated ceremony and wedding destinations. With perfect venues and an event team that is constantly receiving glowing reviews, Anna Maria Island Venues offers something for everyone. If you are having trouble selecting the perfect destination, ask our team about our All Venue Packages to experience a taste of them all.

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THE SUN

Lauren and Steven Simpa were married on October 11, 2023.

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Want your wedding photos to be featured here? Submit them to ads@amisun.com, subject 'Wedding Photos' along with your names, date of wedding and location and phone number for a chance to be featured here*. *Submission of photo not a guarantee for placement. The Sun is not responsible for any copyright infringement.

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Steve Laera greets and assists customers at Edibles N More Old Time Country Store in Holmes Beach.

Unique country store opens

BY JASON SCHAFFER

SUN CORRESPONDENT | jschaffer@amisun.com

HOLMES BEACH - Located in the former Island Gallery West at 5368 Gulf Drive, the new Edibles N More Old Time Country Store isn’t a traditional hemp product retailer.

Owner Mel Wendel says while many people are praising the benefits of hemp-based edibles and other hempbased products for their personal wellness, they are often uncomfortable with the kind of stores that sell them.

Her goal was to change the way people shop by integrating these federally legal products with an old-time country store.

“We didn’t want to bring a vape store mentality over to Anna Maria,

because we know how special the Island is,” Wendel said. “We wanted to make sure our store blended in with everything that already existed there.

The country store offers plenty of gifts and unique products that appeal to everyone who may not be interested in the hemp products.”

Wendel has mobile trucks and is also a distributor of hemp products, and says it’s important for her to help her customers find what is right for their needs. She says it’s her goal to be a good steward of the hemp industry.

Edibles N More is open Monday through Thursday from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. and Friday and Saturday from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. Visit www.ediblesnmore.com.

NOVEMBER 15, 2023

NOVEMBER 15, 2023

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25

ANNEXATION: Into Bradenton a consolidation option FROM PAGE 19 the three existing city governments would be eliminated. The possibility of the three Island cities being annexed into the city of Bradenton adds a new twist to the ongoing consolidation discussions.

The delegation consists of Sen. Jim Boyd (R-Bradenton), Rep. Will Robinson Jr. (R-Bradenton), Sen. Joe Gruters (R-Sarasota), State Rep. Tommy Gregory (R-Lakewood Ranch) and State Rep. Mike Beltran (R-Apollo Beach).

Touted in part as a means to reduce property taxes for Anna Maria Island property owners, the study pertains to the potential consolidation of the similar services currently provided separately by all three Island cities and/or the possible consolidation of the three cities or the elimination of the three cities and their respective city governments.

The delegation put the study request on temporary hold to provide the three Island mayors time to discuss and devise potential areas of consolidation services with potential

cost savings to be identified with law enforcement, code enforcement, public works, building departments and permitting and other services currently provided by all three cities.

Those mayoral consolidation discussions produced no tangible results.

On Aug. 21, Boyd and Robinson sent letters to three Island mayors informing them of the delegation’s renewed pursuit of the OPPAGA consolidation study.

On Oct. 31, Murphy and Short received a letter from OPPAGA Coordinator P.K. Jameson; Titsworth and Chappie received similar letters.

In her letter to Murphy and Short, Jameson wrote, “As directed by the Legislature, the Office of Program Policy Analysis and Government Accountability is reviewing the potential benefits of consolidating municipal services and government structures for Anna Maria Island.

“OPPAGA expects to begin this review immediately. To assure the least disruption to your agency, OPPAGA staff would like to meet with you or your representative to discuss the procedures for this review. Your

ADDITIONAL RESPONSES

CITY OF HOLMES BEACH | SUBMITTED

Holmes Beach Mayor Judy Titsworth met with OPPAGA officials on Nov. 8. office will be contacted in the near future to establish an appropriate time and place for the meeting. Thank you for your cooperation. If you have any questions, please contact Emily Leventhal.”

On Nov. 9, The Sun emailed Leventhal seeking confirmation that she told Titsworth the city of Bradenton would be included in the study and considered as a potential annexation option.

That email also contained questions about the actual implementation of any consolidation or annexation actions.

Later that day, The Sun received a phone call from OPPAGA General Counsel Janet Tashner.

“Unfortunately, we’re not able to comment; and I can tell you it’s a little early for these questions. The study just began,” Tashner said.

Tashner was asked if she could at least confirm whether the city of Bradenton will be considered as one possible annexation option.

“They’re not going to know what those possibilities are until the study’s complete,” Tashner said.

On Nov. 9, The Sun emailed Bradenton Mayor Gene Brown and City Clerk Jeannie Roberts inquiring as to whether Brown had yet received

SEE ANNEXATION, PAGE 27

26 THE SUN

OUTDOORS

NOVEMBER 15, 2023

Join the 2023 EcoSummit

Reel Time RUSTY CHINNIS

O

n Dec. 5-6, the Science and Environment Council, the region’s network of 43 leading science-based environmental organizations, will offer the community a two-day summit at Van Wezel Hall in Sarasota that will explore solutions for balancing growth with nature and reducing our impacts.

Since 1930, the population of Sarasota and Manatee counties has grown from 35,000 to 891,000 people. The growth has resulted in significant degradation, fragmentation and loss of natural habitats and the fish and wildlife they supported.

The summit will offer the public a lively, thoughtprovoking and entertaining experience that will include lectures, panel discussions, storytelling, film and music.

Dozens of national, regional, and local experts will share the stage with local storytellers and Americana songwriter Karen Jonas and her band.

Australian documentary filmmaker and regenerative environmental leader Damon Gameau will be the summit’s keynote speaker and will screen his film, “2040.”

Florida’s favorite storyteller and author, Carl Hiaasen, journalist Craig Pittman, and local dolphin whisperer Randy Wells will contribute to an unforgettable and entertaining evening of Florida stories.

U.S. News and World Report ranked the Sarasota metro area as the second fastestgrowing place in America in 2023-24. Ongoing challenges with impaired waters, recurrent algal blooms and declining fish and wildlife make it clear that we cannot continue to grow the same way we have in the past.

This is particularly important to convey to voters who will need to elect leaders who understand that our economy and quality of life depend on a healthy, resilient natural environment. A recent decision by the Manatee County Commission to reduce wetland buffers, a move in the opposite direction, points to the urgency of informing the public. Nature cleans our air and water, supports fish and wildlife, promotes public health and drives our economy.

An important book by Florida author Jack Davis, “The Gulf, the Making of an American Sea” (winner of the 2018 Pulitzer Prize for history), is highly recommended to show residents what has been lost and the importance of protecting what we still have. Floridians whose families have lived here for generations know this story well. For four years running, participants in Sarasota County’s annual Citizen Opinion Survey have identified population growth and development as the county’s biggest issue.

We’ve done it before. Since the 1970s, our region has often led the state with bold, community-driven environmental initiatives. Residents rallied to protect South Lido Beach Park, Emerson Point, Sister Keys and Casperson Beach. We banned phosphate mining in Sarasota County and adopted the first summer ban on fertilizer use. We established Sarasota Bay, Tampa Bay and Charlotte Harbor as estuaries of national significance and empowered three National Estuary Programs to protect and restore them. We protected the Myakka River and more recently the Little Manatee River as state-designated Wild and Scenic Rivers. In November 2020, 71.34% of Manatee County voters agreed to increase property tax by .15 mills and authorized purchasing $50 million in bonds to acquire, improve and manage land to protect drinking water sources and water quality, preserve fish and wildlife habitat, prevent stormwater run-off pollution and provide parks.

Our communities overwhelmingly support our natural environment, and we have exceptional environmental organizations with highly qualified and dedicated people who work to conserve and restore it. Now it’s more critical than ever that we elect leaders who listen to the will of the people.

I highly recommend this summit as a learning experience and a call to action. See you there.

SUBMITTED

The 2023 Eco Summit is a great opportunity to learn and meet local environmental leaders.

NOVEMBER 15, 2023

Fly fishing school Saturday CB’s Saltwater Outfitters, 1249 Stickney Point Road, Sarasota, will hold an Orvis-Endorsed fly fishing school on Saturday, Nov. 18. The course, designed for beginning and intermediate fly casters, will focus on basic fly casting principles, improving casting skills and correcting faults. Instructor Capt. Rick Grassett will also cover saltwater fly fishing techniques, leader construction and fly selection.

The cost for the class, which will run from 8:30 a.m. to 2 p.m., is $225 per person and includes the use of fly tackle, workbook and lunch. Optional instructional guided fly fishing trips are also available for an additional fee. Call CB’s Saltwater Outfitters at 941-349-4400 or email info@cbsoutfitters.com to make reservations.

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ANNEXATION: Into Bradenton a consolidation option FROM PAGE 25 any correspondence from OPPAGA, Boyd or Robinson regarding the consolidation study.

Roberts responded with an email that said, “The city of Bradenton is advising media to contact the offices of Rep. Will Robinson or Sen. Jim Boyd, as this is a state initiative.”

The Sun again asked Roberts or Brown to provide a copy of any OPPAGA-related correspondence Brown received. As of Monday afternoon, Brown had not responded to The Sun’s inquiry and no consolidation study-related correspondence to Brown was provided.

On Nov. 9, The Sun emailed Boyd seeking his insight on the city of Bradenton being included in the consolidation study.

As of Monday afternoon, Boyd had not responded.

ROBINSON RESPONSE

On Nov. 9, The Sun emailed a similar inquiry to Robinson. On Nov. 10, Robinson called The Sun and spoke briefly about the consolidation study.

He said the city of Bradenton is one of many possible consolidation/annexation options. The other options could also

Unfortunately, we’re not able to comment; and I can tell you it’s a little early for these questions. The study just began.”

Janet Tashner, OPPAGA general counsel include no consolidation or annexation at all, consolidating the Anna Maria Island cities into one Island city or annexing the Island cities into Manatee County.

“To make the most complete decision, the delegation has asked that the OPPAGA study analyze each and every option, including doing nothing,” Robinson said later via text message.

On Nov. 10, Robinson provided The Sun with a lengthy written statement regarding the OPPAGA study and what prompted it.

“Growing up, my mom and dad would take me to Anna Maria Island a lot. We would visit for the day, go to the beach and bring a bagged lunch, as we didn’t have a lot of money. I still enjoy to this day going out there. It is paradise. My public battle on beach parking and access is solely focused on allowing all families the chance to enjoy our great beaches, including those that cannot afford to

live on the Island or pay the high weekly vacation rental fee,” Robinson stated.

His statement addressed the state legislation adopted and approved by Gov. Ron DeSantis earlier this year which allows Manatee County to build a three-story parking garage at Manatee Beach in Holmes Beach despite the city’s continued opposition.

“Unfortunately, roadblock after roadblock was put up by the city of Holmes Beach to reasonably solve this issue and the Legislature was forced to act. That (parking garage) bill passed unanimously – all Republicans and all Democrats in both the House, 116-0, and the Senate, 39-0. The mayor of Holmes Beach blamed the Legislature for not understanding the issue. Believe me, they did.

“Many members could not believe the restrictions put in place by Holmes Beach to take away parking that had existed for

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28 THE SUN

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P&Z supports request to subdivide property The Anna Maria Planning and Zoning Board recommends city commission approval of a request to subdivide a residential property at 406 North Shore Drive, an occupied single-story duplex. The property is owned by the SWM Realty LLC that lists Scott Munro as its authorized representative. According to a memo prepared by City Planner Ashley Austin, subdividing the lot would create two buildable single-family lots, each measuring approximately 50’ x 150’ and 7,500 square feet. The split lots would

JOE HENDRICKS | SUN

The owners of the residential property at 406 North Shore Drive want to subdivide the lot into two buildable lots. allow for the development of single-family detached residential units in an area designated and zoned R-1 (single-family residential).

City staff recommended approval of the application.

During their Nov. 8 meeting, Planning and Zoning

Board members agreed that the proposed subdivision of property meets all applicable criteria in the city’s land development code. The city commission will be asked to approve the subdivision request on Thursday, Nov. 16.

NOVEMBER 15, 2023

NOVEMBER 15, 2023

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29

ANNEXATION: Into Bradenton a consolidation option FROM PAGE 27

decades, with the goal of making it more difficult to allow anyone to visit the Island. In that battle, many residents on the Island reached out to ask that we look at the political structure of the Island. Because of the over-regulatory policies, traffic and ability to sell homes at a high price, residents are fleeing the Island.

“About a year ago, the Manatee County legislative delegation unanimously requested a study from OPPAGA to analyze all the political options for the Island. Senator Boyd and I met with the three Island mayors earlier this year and they asked for us to pause the OPPAGA study so they could work on coordinating services.

The delegation paused the study, in good faith, to allow that important work to continue. Unfortunately, the mayor of Holmes Beach blocked any progress, fearing that would lead to consolidation. Senator Boyd and I sent another letter to the mayors asking them to work on coordination. Mayor Chappie outlined wonderful suggestions and Mayor Murphy committed to find ways to save taxpayer money.

Unfortunately, the mayor of Holmes

Beach once again offered no help or coordination. Left with no option, the independent state agency, OPPAGA, has begun work on the study. The Island cannot function long-term with residents fleeing, selling their homes and creating more vacation rentals, budgets souring with out-of-control regulation – like in Holmes Beach restricting reasonable beach parking.

“The study will look at all options available to make the Island stronger and more efficient. On a 7-mile stretch of land, do we really need three police departments? Do we need three building departments or public works departments all with different standards and ways of doing things? Do we need three city commissions and three mayors with never-ending rising revenues but a plummeting resident population?” Robinson stated.

“I don’t have all the answers to any of these questions because we don’t have the data, and I have not heard from all the residents. The OPPAGA study will look at all options, including doing nothing. The study will take several months to complete and it is my strong opinion that if a change is made, the (existing) building height

The study will look at all options available to make the Island stronger and more efficient.”

Will Robinson Jr., state representative on the Island should be 100% legally protected from going any higher, as that is critical to the charm and quality of life on the Island,” Robinson stated.

“Even though the mayor of Holmes Beach continues to block progress and any reasonable coordination, I urge the mayors to get back in a room and find ways to save taxpayer money. I am happy to play whatever role you need and offer any help. The Legislature is forced to proceed with this study because residents have asked us for help and some have told me they are scared to speak up for fear of repercussions from the city of Holmes Beach.

Robinson noted none of the 2023 city commission races on the Island were contested and all eight incumbent commissioners seeking reelection ran unopposed.

He noted there hasn’t been a contested commission on the Island since 2021.

He noted that as of 2023, Bradenton Beach had 644 registered voters, Anna Maria had 925 and Holmes Beach had 2,638.

“As the voting population continues to dwindle, will there be enough eligible islanders to fill all of the mayor and commission seats? Overall, the Island has lost a significant amount of its voter population in 15 years, even as Florida has exploded in growth.

Over the last 20 years, the Island has exploded in vacation rental growth, while the resident and voting population has plummeted. That trend does not seem to be ending. And, just to the north, the town of Longboat Key has more population than all three Island cities combined and is on a bigger island,” Robinson stated.

SEE ANNEXATION, PAGE 31

30 THE SUN

C

REAL ESTATE

onfused? Of course you are, if you’re a potential buyer. We are living through a very dysfunctional housing market and the maze doesn’t look like it’s ending any time soon.

Should you buy, should you rent or should you find a tiny accessory home?

The answer is different for everyone.

Buying has almost always been favored over renting when it comes to housing.

For some, renting is considered “throwing money away” while buying is an “investment.” The truth is the answer is much more nuanced and really depends on what is the right fit for you.

Renting is a short-term solution as opposed to homeownership, which is much more of a commitment in terms of finances, time and labor than renting. Nevertheless, the argument for home ownership has always been building equity and doing as you please with your property.

In today’s real estate world, homeownership is very elusive to first-time

NOVEMBER 15, 2023

Rent, buy or add on?

Castles in the Sand LOUISE BOLGER buyers. Inventory is in short supply, interest rates are rising and particularly in Florida, insurance is totally unpredictable from one renewal to the next.

Right now, the cost of buying a home versus renting one is at the most extreme since at least 1996. The average monthly new mortgage payment is 52% higher than the average apartment rent, according to CBRE, a global commercial real estate services company.

A person buying a home today will pay 60% more for monthly repayment costs than if they had bought the same house three years ago. As a comparison, rents rose by 22% over the same period, a little ahead of the inflation

rate but far below the cost of purchasing on a monthly basis.

If the home you’re considering buying is a long-term investment and you can scrape up the monthly costs with a little extra for inevitable repairs, then in the long run you’re better off. But this decision is an individual one based on job security, family needs and the desire to grow equity.

Trying to fill the lack of the affordable property gap are tiny homes or ADUs (accessory dwelling units). These are typically small apartments tucked away in the backyard, over garages or extended out from the main house. They are getting a second look from buyers who are building, and contractors are providing options for these units as part of new construction.

This is a growing trend to keep an eye on.

Finally, I feel that in the best interest of homebuyers, I must mention this last item. Realtors - specifically The National Association of Realtors (NAR) - are facing two federal antitrust trials relative to com-

missions charged. Realtor commissions are typically 6% shared between the listing and the selling agents, creating a potential conflict of interest. Keep in mind this is not set in stone and sellers can ask for a lower rate before they enter into a listing contract.

The first of these two antitrust cases was decided by a jury against the NAR on Oct. 31. The decision will be appealed, and it could take years before there is any final conclusion. The second case has not gone to trial yet, but we can assume there will be more antitrust cases going forward.

This ruling and others that may be coming can possibly change the way business is done in the real estate community. I know how hard most real estate professionals work and how much experience they offer their clients; therefore, I’m staying neutral.

Well, if you were confused before, I just made it a little more confusing. However, renting or buying should not be confusing, it should be well thought out before moving forward.

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NOVEMBER 15, 2023

www.amisun.com

ANNEXATION: Into Bradenton an option FROM PAGE 29 “Now, more than ever, we need to make the Island stronger and more efficient to bring down taxes, reduce unnecessary regulation and preserve our beautiful beaches for everyone.

This study will provide invaluable data that will allow us to review every feasible option available for the Island. It is imperative the Island gets on a better path that reduces taxes, unnecessary and burdensome regulations and is more welcoming to all residents, most especially in greater Manatee County, who also pay taxes to support our beautiful beaches,” Robinson stated.

Titsworth has consistently maintained that her city government is not attempting to restrict parking.

FINANCIAL IMPACTS

Consolidating the three Island cities into one Island city or annexing the three cities into the city of Bradenton or Manatee County would have significant financial impacts.

If the three Island cities were consolidated into one Island city, the annual property tax revenues currently received by each respective city would be controlled by the Island’s newly-created governing body.

If the three cities were annexed into the city of Bradenton, that city would then receive those property tax revenues. If the three Island cities were annexed into Manatee County, the county would receive those property tax revenues.

For the current tax year, the taxable value of all properties in Holmes Beach is $3.14 billion. The

total taxable value in Anna Maria is $2.03 billion and $981 million in Bradenton Beach.

A property owner’s tax bill is calculated using the annual millage rate established by each specific governing body. Anna Maria and Holmes Beach’s current 2.05 millage rates are the lowest in Manatee County. The millage rate in Bradenton Beach is 2.3329 mills.

The millage rate in Bradenton is 5.8351 mills and Manatee County’s 2023-24 millage rate is 6.2326 mills.

One mill equals $1 in property taxes owed per $1,000 of assessed taxable property value.

The millage rate calculation formula is: Taxable value divided by 1,000 multiplied by the millage rate equals the property tax owed.

THE SUN

31

BEACH BEAT HOLMES BEACH 11/3, 8:16 p.m., Marchman Act, 4000 Gulf Drive.

The officer responded to an intoxicated man causing a disturbance at the Manatee Beach restroom area. the officer asked him if he had any family or friends that could come pick him up, however, efforts to reach anyone were unsuccessful. While speaking to the man, he admitted to falling earlier in the day due to his intoxication. He injured his hand, knee and hit his head as a result of the fall. Since he was too intoxicated to ride the bus, the officer enacted a Marchman Act procedure for his safety. EMS was called and he was transported to HCA Florida Blake Hospital for treatment.

11/6, 7:30 a.m., abandoned vehicle, 56th Street.

The officer responded to a call about a vehicle in a ditch by the side of the road. When he arrived, he saw a red Fiat stuck front bumper first into a ditch. No one was around to claim the vehicle, so the officer called a tow company to remove it.

A few hours later, a female called dispatch and said she had rented the vehicle. The female said the previous night, she had attempted to make a turn, but didn’t see the ditch. She called AAA but left before they arrived. The woman was not cited, but was responsible for the tow bill and retrieval of the vehicle.

32 THE SUN

www.amisun.com

NOVEMBER 13, 2023

TREE: Lighting to spark holiday season FROM PAGE 1

The evening’s festivities will also include raffle tickets for Turning Points of Bradenton and an ornament walkabout.

Pictures with Santa will allow children to share their holiday wishes, keepsake photographs will be available and volunteers will do face painting.

Attendees are advised to bring a chair and blanket for the movie, along with canned food donations for the Manatee Food Bank. Popcorn, hot chocolate and other refreshments will be available nearby.

“The lighting of the Christmas tree is a moment of enchantment and tradition, illuminating the holiday season with a radiant glow. As the sun sets and darkness descends, families and communities gather in anticipation.

With a flick of the switch, the tree bursts into a breathtaking display of twinkling lights, casting a magical aura over the surroundings,” according to the website lovebradentonbeach.com. “It symbolizes unity, hope and the spirit of giving. The shared experience fosters a deep sense of togetherness, reminding us of the joys of love, generosity and the enduring magic of Christmas.”

The event will also honor the late Bradenton Beach Mayor John Shaughnessy, who passed away on May 4.

Shaughnessy was a Bradenton Beach commissioner for six years, vice mayor and served as mayor from 2011-13.

“As twilight descends, we gather to honor a community pillar, Mayor John Shaughnessy. Recognizing his unwavering dedication and transformative leadership, we celebrate a leader who embodies the spirit of unity. Mayor Shaughnessy, a beacon guiding us through challenges, is a testament to the strength of our town. Join us in expressing gratitude for his commitment, acknowledging his contributions that have shaped our community. Together,

CINDY LANE | SUN

An illuminated tree glows in Bradenton Beach in 2021. let’s illuminate the night in honor of a leader whose legacy inspires us to build a brighter, more connected future for all,” the website says.

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NOVEMBER 15, 2023

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THE SUN

ANNA MARIA 915 N Shore Drive 4 Beds 4 Baths | 2,870 SF Hannah Hillyard & George Myers 941-744-7358 A4582727 | $6,450,000

ANNA MARIA ISLAND 515 Bayview Drive 4 Beds | 3 Baths | 2,928 SF James Sauter & Randee Long 941-999-8901 | A4569730 | $3,499,950

ANNA MARIA 117 Maple Avenue 3 Beds | 3/1 Baths | 2,323 SF Kristen Srur 941-350-0612 | A4582611 | $3,350,000

ANNA MARIA 216 Palm Avenue 4 Beds | 3 Baths | 2,432 SF Hannah Hillyard & George Myers 941-744-7358 | A4585356 | $2,995,000

ANNA MARIA ISLAND 101 66th Street 1 3 Beds | 3 Baths | 1,627 SF Ken Kavanaugh, Jr & Kathy Harman 941-799-1943 | A4574636 | $2,200,000

CORTEZ 12410 Baypointe Terrace 3 Beds | 3 Baths | 2,891 SF Hannah Hillyard & George Myers 941-744-7358 | A4576617 | $1,800,000

ANNA MARIA ISLAND 5300 Gulf Drive 506 2 Beds | 2 Baths | 1,057 SF Ken Kavanaugh, Jr & Kathy Harman 941-799-1943 | A4583033 | $969,000

ANNA MARIA ISLAND 511 Bayview Drive | 4 Beds 5 Baths | 3,353 SF Hannah Hillyard & George Myers 941-744-7358 | A4562528 | $6,500,000

33

34 THE SUN

www.amisun.com

Fire chief joins elite EFO grads West Manatee Fire Rescue Chief Ben Rigney joined an elite group of graduates on Nov. 3 when he received the designation of Executive Fire Officer from the National Fire Academy. The academy has awarded less than 5,000 EFO designations in over 35 years. From left, Richard Sexton, branch chief of prevention for the National Fire Academy, congratulates Chief Rigney on earning his EFO designation.

SUBMITTED

NOVEMBER 15, 2023

NOVEMBER 15, 2023

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35

36 THE SUN

SPORTS

NOVEMBER 15, 2023

Long, Maize earn youth sportsmanship honors

BY MONICA SIMPSON SPECIAL TO THE SUN

ANNA MARIA – Youth soccer on the Island celebrated its outstanding players last week.

As the 8- to 10-year-old league played the first round of playoff games, the focus was on 12 standout players.

Celebrating the hard work of all of the young players, The Center held the end-of-season awards ceremony. Acknowledged for strong play, Gunnar Maize and Ruby Kesten earned the Most Valuable Player accolades for the 8- to 10-year-olds.

For defensive honors, Aidan Guess was named MVP and Kason Price was voted as the Outstanding Goalie for the season. Stepping up his game as the season went on, Most Improved accolades went Parker Svoboda.

Keeping in the spirit of Center recreational youth soccer, Carson Long deserved the Sportsmanship Award for his age group. Long’s counterpart in the 11- to 14-year-old league was Charlee Maize, recognized for his gamesmanship throughout the season.

Most Improved honors went to Renan Kesten, while Kegan McGlade captured the Defensive MVP award.

Sharing the defensive shoutouts, Jack Zaccagnino was voted Outstanding Goalie.

Top player praises in the older age group went to Luke

Dellenger and Cecelia Kroth, 11- to 14-year-old MVPs. In last week’s game play, the 8- to 10-year-old league playoffs started with three games. In the end, fourth-ranked Adrian Griffin Interiors won over La Creperie, moving on to the semifinal round of action.

Team Am I Coconuts and Solid Rock Construction also advanced with their wins over team Isola Bella Italian Eatery and The Porch, respectively.

The older Solid Rock squad was edged out by The Gitt Team - KW On The Water in an overtime shoot-out during regular season 11- to 14-year-old league play.

Playing the final youth game of the week, No. 1-ranked Cheesecake Cuties blew out HSH Designs 6-1.

Adult co-ed recreational soccer semifinal action continued the exciting playoff match-ups. In the third playoff game leading to overtime PKs, fifth-ranked Gulfview Windows & Doors managed to pull out the 4-4 tie in regulation time.

Taking the line and making the shots for Gulfview were Raul Loera, Keith Mahoney, Jesus Martinez and Eric Pullen, against Slim’s Place keeper Steve Oelfke.

Striking against goalie Raul Loera and successful with their PKs for Slim’s Place were Damir Glavan, Yuri Pereira and Kris Yavalar.

During regulation time,

The two final adult teams, Gulf Drive Café and Gulfview Windows & Doors, meet up on Thursday, Nov. 16 at 7 p.m. on The Center pitch to play the Paul “Ace” Hayward Cup.

SUN SCOREBOARD NOV. 7 YOUTH SOCCER – ROUND ONE PLAYOFF GAMES MONICA SIMPSON | SUN

Youth soccer had a beautiful sunset as a backdrop last Monday night at The Center of Anna Maria Island.

Gulfview’s Leo Gonzalez scored two goals, with solos by Mahoney and Martinez to capture the win. William Romberger was credited with two saves, along with Loera’s two stops.

The four goals scored for Slim’s Place, putting the team into OT, were Thomas Mangotic and Glavan, each with a single, and two amazing goals

by Lindsey Styka.

Gulfview’s offense kept Oelfke busy during the first 44 minutes of play. Oelfke made 12 big stops in the semifinal game.

In a big win, the young Gulf Drive Café team won their semifinal game by three goals over team Ross Built 5-2. With two goals each by Kevin Roman and Jana Whitehead, along with a single by Eliza Faillace, the Gulf Drive squad earned their spot in the final game of the season.

Credited with an assist to Whitehead’s first goal, Javier

Rivera helped his team to victory.

Top goalie in the league Charles “Tuna” McCracken made nine saves in the semifinal game.

On the other side of the field, keeper Max Gazzo talked to his team from the backfield and made 13 big stops off of Gulf Drive strikes.

Daniel Hampton and Andrew Ross each had a goal, keeping the Ross Built team alive and in the game.

Ross and his twin brother, Jake, have played sports at The Center since they were eligible to play as little boys. Now adults, they join their father and owner of Ross Built, Greg Ross, on the pitch.

G. Ross, raised on the Island, talked about the day he would be playing at The Center with his sons in the adult leagues.

Together, along with their teammates, the Ross men challenged their opponents each week this season.

8- TO 10-YEAR-OLD LEAGUE

#4 Adrian Griffin Interiors 3 #5 La Creperie 0 #3 Isola Bella Italian Eatery 2 #6 Am I Coconuts 2 winner in overtime PKs (2-0) #2 Solid Rock Construction 5 #7 The Porch 3

11- TO 14-YEAR-OLD LEAGUE WEEK 8

#2 Solid Rock Construction (4-4-1) 3 #3 The Gitt Team KW On The Water (3-4-2) 3 #1 Cheesecake Cuties (6-1-2) 6 #4 HSH Design (2-6-1) 1

NOV. 9 ADULT CO-ED SOCCER SEMIFINAL PLAYOFF GAMES

#5 Gulfview Windows & Doors 4 winner in overtime PKs (4-3) #8 Slim’s Place 4 #2 Gulf Drive Café 5 #3 Ross Built Custom Homes

2

NOVEMBER 15, 2023

FUN IN THE SUN

Across 1 Roughly 5 Skin blemish 9 Poetic contraction 12 Inheritance recipients 14 Slurpee-like drinks 16 Astronaut Jemison 17 Parade with strict precision 19 Body shop fig.

20 __ Lanka 21 Conclusion 22 One providing misguided support 24 Milan opera house 26 Pull up stakes for one's co.

27 Hint 30 Starbucks size 31 Gains a lap 32 "Stay right there!"

34 Fuel economy meas.

35 Tropical storm 36 More inclusive

Answers to 11-08-23 Crossword Puzzle

40 See red?

41 Sorting factor in some directories 42 Blessing 44 British noble 45 "Saving Private Ryan" event 46 Medical pros 47 Opens, as a gift 49 Sound bite, e.g.

51 Sked info 52 April 15 payment 55 Original Beatle Sutcliffe 56 Metaphor for something that can't be changed, and what's found five times in this puzzle?

59 Keystone figure 60 Lofty nest 61 Shrub that may be toxic 62 Informer, maybe 63 Saxophone insert 64 Repair

Down 1 Electrical units 2 Caboose 3 Virtual assistant on Apple devices 4 Goblinlike fantasy creature 5 South Dakota national park known for its air currents 6 Rm. coolers 7 Share again, as a joke 8 "Ooo La La La" singer __ Marie 9 Brunch dish 10 Stands in a studio 11 Nostalgia-inducing 13 "__ Butter Baby": Ari Lennox/J. Cole song 15 Hydrotherapy spot 18 Not negotiable 23 Bandits 24 Live it up 25 Pub choice 27 Public health agcy.

28 Poet Mina or actress Myrna 29 Chapel Hill sch.

31 Ad 33 Like freshly cut lawns 34 Fred Flintstone's boss 36 Raced (along) 37 Family man 38 Horvath of "The Rings of Power" 39 Marina del __, California 41 Bar code?

42 Cereal eater's proof of

purchase 43 Keep busy 44 Unabridged 46 Secretaries, e.g.

47 __ Peninsula: Michigan home of Yoopers

THE SUN

48 Cushions 50 Pretoria's land: Abbr.

52 Umpire's cry 53 Mathematician Turing 54 Randall Munroe's webcomic of "romance,

37

sarcasm, math, and language" 57 Two truths and a __: icebreaker game 58 Autumn flower, for short

38 THE SUN

CLASSIFIEDS CLEANING SERVICE

HOLIDAY BOAT PARADE Bradenton Beach / Cortez. Great prizes. Free entry. Details www.boat-parade. com

TOTAL HOME SERVICES CLEANING Residential, Commercial, Rentals, VRBO. Professional and Reliable.

Call 941-756-4570 or 941-565-3931

ROSER FOOD BANK needs donations of cash and non-perishable food, PAPER & PERSONAL HYGIENE PRODUCTS. Donations boxes are located at the Church, Moose Club, and Walgreen’s.

HOSPITAL VOLUNTEERS WANTED to assist at our information desk, especially weekends.

Great for teens needing volunteer hours (16yrs+).

Other assignments available. Please call the Blake Volunteer Office at 941-798-6151.

BOATS FOR SALE 2001 SAILFISH 188 CENTER CONSOLE with 115 Yamaha engine (runs good) Trailer with 2 new tires & new custom boat & motor cover. Excellent condition $15K OBO. 518368-5479

CARE GIVER LICENSED CARE GIVER. We will take care of you and/ or your loved ones! Please call 941-725-4851.

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

NOVEMBER 15, 2023

ANNOUNCEMENTS

THE BEST VOLUNTEER position on the island. The AMI Historical Museum needs docents and bread makers. Call Kathy Primeau at 989-560-6381.

Call us today! 941-778-3986

EMPLOYMENT SALON LOOKING FOR EXPERIENCED HAIR STYLIST. Please stop by for an interview. A Hair Day 9516 Cortez Rd. 941-795-5227

FISHING CHARTERS CAPT. MAC GREGORY Fishing Charters. Full Day, Half Day, Night, Inshore & Near Shore. 941-809-5783 U.S.C.G. Certified/Insured

GARAGE SALES Happy Hoarders Downsizing Sale Indoors and Outdoors Something for Everyone - Come Rain or Shine Fri/Sat/Sun November 17, 18, 19th 2203 Avenue A, Bradenton Beach

HOME IMPROVEMENTS RENOVATION SPECALIST ALL carpentry repairs, Wash Family Construction, locally owned and operated CBC 1258250 Call 941-725-0073.

KERN & GILDER CONSTRUCTION, INC New Homes & Remodel. Design/Build.

Since 1968. License # CBC 1261150. Call the Office.

941-778-1115 GET’R DONE DRYWALL, INC Specializing in Remodels & Repairs. Island Resident for 20+ years.

Call Neil. Cell 941-9621194 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.

API’S DRYWALL REPAIR 15+ years experience.

Free estimates. No job too small. Love to help you.

Call 941-524-8067.

ISLE TILE specializing in Custom Bath/Shower & Backsplash installation.

Pressure washing available. Call 941-302-8759 isletileservices.com GORILLA DRYWALL REPAIR, LLC. 15+ years of experience. Free Estimates.

Let’s solve your Drywall problems together. Call 941-286-0607.

HOME IMPROVEMENT Michigan General Contractor 30+ yrs. experience. Large or small projects. Budget minded knowledgeable tradesman will complete your project start to finish: On Time/ On Budget. Call Mike 616-204-8822.

BMF INTERIORS Home repairs and more, No job too small. Please call 786318-8585

LANDSCAPING & LAWN CARE R. GAROFALO’S Interlocking brick pavers, driveways, patios, pool decks.

Free estimates. Licensed & Insured. Call Rafael 941-778-4823 or Veronik 941-526-7941 SHELL DRIVEWAYS & LANDSCAPE. Specializing in Old Florida Seashell and Lime rock driveways and scapes. Also River Rock, Sand, Mulch, & Soil. Call Shark Mark 941-301-6067 ISLAND RESIDENT. TREE/ BUSH Trimming, removal.

Sweeping, blowing, and weeding. Weekly, bi-monthly or monthly schedule. Pressure washing. Call Bill Witaszek 941307-9315

LOST & FOUND LOST WALLET AROUND Judy’s Restaurant. Please call 313-310-3290. REWARD

AMISUN.COM

LOST KEY FOB at Pickle ball courts in Holmes Beach. Please call 941778-2919.

LOST GOLD RING High School Graduation with PA on Top. Please call 941243-1444

MOVING & STORAGE MARTIN’S MOVING YOUR Island movers!

Offering dependable, competitive rates. No hidden costs. 941-8095777.

PAINTING & WALLCOVERING PAINT! PAINT! AND MORE 28 years of experienced interior/exterior custom painting. Pressure cleaning, drywall repairs and texture finishes. Many Island references. Please call Neil for free estimates.

941-812-0507 “WIZARD OF WALLS” Established 1980 Prompt quality service.

Wallpaper installation/ removal. Mary Bell Winegarden 941-794-0455

DONALD PERKINS ABRACADABRA PAINTING LLC fully insured. 30 years experience. Many Island references. Call 941-705-7096 PROFESSIONAL PAINTING SERVICES. Prompt & Reliable. Island Resident. Quality Workmanship. Interior/Exterior.

Minor repairs & carpentry. Free estimates. Bill Witaszek 941-307-9315

POOL SERVICES FOUR SEASONS POOL SERVICE AND CHEMICAL SERVICES. Certified Pool Operator. 18 + Years Experience.

Residential/commercial. Chemical Service Licensed & Insured. Call Dennis Clark 941-7375657

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.

T & B PRESSURE WASHING Licensed & Insured.

Driveways/sidewalks, Roofs, Pool cages, Fences, House (soft wash/ downstream). Call 813638-7636. tandbpressurewashing@yahoo. com Family owned and operated.

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 TIRED OF HURRICANE SEASON & want to sell?

Call Kelly The Kelly Gitt Team Proud Veteran Keller Williams on the Water 941-799-9299

NEWLY-RENOVATED CONDO for sale, 2BR/2B, 1639 SF, 6904 10th Ave. W., Village Green on cul-de-sac. 1-car garage, large Florida room, dine-in kitchen plus dining room, large pantry, built-in china cabinet, walk-in closet, lots of storage, laundry room, lush landscaping, pool, walking/running track, 5 miles to AMI, near medical, shopping, preserves, $379,900.

Lisa Varano, Wagner Realty, 941-730-9060.

RENTALS: ANNUAL ANNUAL RENTALS WANTED! We have well qualified tenants for beach and mainland annual rentals, Full management or Finders fee. Call today for details. Ask for Paige DUNCAN REAL ESTATE 513-382-1992.

Holmes Beach- 1BD 1.5BA canal front annual available ASAP $3,000/moyear lease Anna Maria- 2BD 2BA annual available ASAP $2,800/mo- year lease Contact us today at Sato Real Estate (941) 7787200 SUNNYSHORES/ SAGAMORE ESTATES AREA: Annual rental, home with 3BR/1.5BA. Includes washer, dryer, screened in patio, parking under carport, and access to boat ramp and park by Palma Sola Bay. $1,900 per month.

Call 941-705-0532 ANNUAL RENTALS HOLMES BEACH 2BR/1BA $1995 + utilities, 2BR/2BA $2395 + utilities, 4BR/3BA $3995 + utilities. All walk to Beach. Call 860-9223857 ANNUAL: GROUND LEVEL 1BR/1BA, 55+ community, $2100 per month. Call 941-778-4800

NOVEMBER 15, 2023

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BUSINESS & SERVICE DIRECTORY HOME IMPROVEMENT

39

Call today to place your ad: 941-778-3986

HOME IMPROVEMENT

REAL ESTATE

HOME SERVICES

ROOFING

PAINTING

RENTALS: ANNUAL

FREE

HOME DELIVERY

ISLAND FURNISHED STUDIO apartment for yearly rent. $1,750 monthly plus deposits. Utilities paid. Complete kitchen, bathroom, walk-in closet, laundry, yard. 941-4050126 Available now. 2 bd, 1 bath. Clark Lane. Newly renovated, shared pool, washer & dryer. Asking $2,200 monthly. Contact lekitesak@yahoo.com for a tour or more information.

RENTALS: SEASONAL & VACATION TIFFANY PLACE Gulf Front Condo for Rent Incredible views from living room and master bedroom. 2BR/2BA Green Real Estate Call 941-778-0455 SEASONAL RENTAL in PALMA SOLA. 3BR/2BA weekly or monthly rates. Contact Barb Grace 941-201-2190

Call for Details

778-3986

ANNA MARIA ISLAND CONDOS Large pool, beach access, free WiFi, 1&2 Bedroom $900 to $1200 per week redekercondosonami.com Tim 941-704-7525 AMI SEASONAL RENTAL 2024, Lovely fully furnished with water view 2 BR/2BA, 3 minute walk to beach.

Email jamesk95@netzero. com 941-226-4008 BRADENTON BEACH CONDO 1 BR/1 BA available Jan - Mar $4500.00/ mo + tax. One block from beach in small complex within walking distance to shopping. Contact Peggy-941-545-0208 Holmes Beach - 2BR 2BA Bayside Condo. Heated Pool, Tennis, Pickleball, beautifully updated.

Call Julie @ 312-835-3054 or email: shellpointhaven@gmail.com

TRANSPORTATION ANYTIME TRANSPORTATION to all Airports, Casino, etc. Tampa/St. Pete $80. Sarasota $40. Pets welcome. Very dependable. Reasonable rates.

Contact Jeanne. 941-7795095

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NOVEMBER 15, 2023