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VOL 26 No. 14
December 31, 2025
Sun Persons of the Year: The entire Anna Maria Island community Recovering from two hurricanes was a community effort unlike any other in the Island's long history. BY JOE HENDRICKS SUN CORRESPONDENT | jhendricks@amisun.com
JOE HENDRICKS | SUN
Everyone who lived, worked, visited or vacationed on Anna Maria Island in 2025 played a role in the recovery from the 2024 hurricanes.
Bradenton Beach: The Year in Review
The reconstruction of the hurricane-damaged City Pier began in 2025 and will be completed in 2026. BY JOE HENDRICKS SUN CORRESPONDENT | jhendricks@amisun.com
BY LESLIE LAKE SUN CORRESPONDENT | llake@amisun.com
PINES
Pines Trailer Park residents received city approval to repair their hurricane-damaged mobile homes but on Jan. 4, park ownership, Pines Park Investors LLC, stated that the park will be closed. Pines residents asked the city on Feb. 20 to deny any future land use or
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LESLIE LAKE | SUN
Pines Trailer Park owners entered into a settlement agreement with park ownership and will remain for an undisclosed period of time. zoning change requests for the Pines Trailer Park by Pines Park Investors LLC or its manager, Shawn Kaleta. City Attorney Ricinda Perry said at a Jan. 16 Community Redevelopment Agency (CRA) meeting that the
SEE BRADENTON BEACH, PAGE 11
ANNA MARIA – The reconstruction of the Anna Maria City Pier, the ongoing recovery from Hurricanes Helene and Milton and the short-lived Bean Point no-swim zone were among the top stories in Anna Maria in 2025.
PIER RECONSTRUCTION
Throughout the year, Mayor Mark Short and the Anna Maria city commissioners repeatedly said getting the hurricane-damaged City Pier walkway replaced and getting the pier fully reopened by the fall of 2026 was the city's top priority. In early June, Gov. Ron DeSantis approved the state budget that included a
RESIDENTS CONCERNED about derelict boats in Palma Sola Bay. 4
Anna Maria Island, Florida
SEE PERSON OF YEAR, PAGE 20
Anna Maria: The Year in Review
2025 was a year of displacement, recovery, permitting challenges, record turtle nesting and changes inside city hall. BRADENTON BEACH – Hurricane recovery, city staff changes and Pines Trailer Park’s existence marked 2025 in Bradenton Beach.
ANNA MARIA ISLAND – An often-cited proverb says, "It takes a village to raise a child." In that same spirit, The Sun says, "It takes an entire Island to recover from back-to-back hurricanes." For that reason, The Sun names the entire extended Anna Maria Island community as its Persons of the Year for 2025. For an Island community that experienced such widespread damage and devastation, it would be impossible and unjust to honor a single individual or organization when so many did so much in 2025. For many on the Island, much of the year was spent on the continued recovery from Hurricanes Helene and Milton in 2024.
JOE HENDRICKS | SUN
As of Dec. 26, many of the City Pier pilings had been driven. $1.5 million appropriation for the pier reconstruction project. In mid-June, the Manatee County Tourist Development Council recommended Manatee County Commission approval for the county to provide up to $2 million in tourist development tax revenues for the pier reconstruction project. In late June, Quality Marine Construction completed the demolition of what remained of the pier
SEE ANNA MARIA, PAGE 7
HOLMES BEACH COUPLE starts 111th
jigsaw puzzle. 8
LOCAL PILOT provides aerial view of
Anna Maria Island. 9 The Island’s award-winning weekly newspaper
www.amisun.com
2 THE SUN
WWW.AMISUN.COM - CELEBRATING 25 YEARS
DECEMBER 31, 2025
DECEMBER 31, 2025
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Holmes Beach: The Year in Review Speed tables, millage rates and stormwater fees were among the issues debated in 2025.
GLORIA DEI PROPERTY
BY JOE HENDRICKS SUN CORRESPONDENT | jhendricks@amisun.com
HOLMES BEACH – The city of Holmes Beach celebrated its 75th anniversary in 2025 and the Dec. 5 celebration at City Field was symbolic of the city's return from the back-to-back hurricanes that struck Anna Maria Island in 2024. The anniversary celebration occurred on the recently resodded City Field that one year ago contained a massive mound of hurricane debris while serving as the city's hurricane debris management site. The anniversary celebration was preceded earlier in the year with Mayor Judy Titsworth unveiling the new sea turtlethemed city flag that now flies over city hall. The city also
JOE HENDRICKS | SUN
The city of Holmes Beach unveiled a new city flag in 2025. produced smaller versions of the new flag and similarly designed T-shirts and hats that also feature the sea turtle logo.
POST-HURRICANE PERMITTING
During each city commission meeting and planning commission meeting in 2025, Development Services Director Chad Minor provided a post-hurricane permitting update that dated back to Hurricane Helene in September 2024.
On Dec. 16, Minor said the city, to date, had issued 3,764 post-hurricane permits and 79 demolition permits. He said 75 homes had been demolished and the city had issued 19 permits for new replacement homes. Minor said the city conducted 9,768 post-hurricane plan reviews and completed nearly 13,000 inspections. He also said there were currently 1,660 active, registered vacation rentals in Holmes Beach.
On Jan. 18, a "Holy Closure" service was held at Gloria Dei Lutheran Church, marking the end of its time as an active church and local congregation. In late June, Taylor s, the real estate agent representing the property owners, informed Minor that the Florida Bahamas Synod Council declined the city's $3 million offer to purchase the three-parcel church property for public use. The church building and property remain on the market with a $9 million asking price.
SPEED CONTROL
In August, the recently installed automated speed cameras were activated near the Anna Maria Elementary school and dozens of warnings and citations were issued to drivers who failed to obey the 15-mph speed limit during the morning and afternoon hours when the students are arriving and departing.
On Oct. 31, two previously debated speed tables were installed along the 500 block of Key Royale Drive. Some 500 block residents supported the new speed tables and some Key Royale residents who live on the other side of the Key Royale Bridge opposed them.
MILLAGE, STORMWATER RATES
In July, the city commission voted 3-2 in favor of setting the maximum property tax millage rate at 2.1812 mills rather than maintaining the current 1.99 millage rate. In September, the commission changed course and voted in favor of maintaining the 1.99 rate for another year. During the same July budget meeting, the commission voted 3-2 in opposition to increasing the annual stormwater fee levied on Holmes Beach property owners from $2.95 per 100 square feet of property to $4.95 per 100 square feet and the $2.95 rate was maintained for another year.
SEE HOLMES BEACH, PAGE 20
4 THE SUN
ISLAND NEWS
Visit our website, www.amisun.com. Scan this code with your smartphone to go there. DECEMBER 31, 2025
Derelict boats concern Palma Sola Bay residents and boaters
IN BRIEF
BY LESLIE LAKE SUN CORRESPONDENT | llake@amisun.com
JOE HENDRICKS | SUN
The 2026 Islanders 4 Clean Water calendars are free. The calendar's January theme is "Connect with locals roots."
Islanders 4 Clean Water calendars available The Islanders 4 Clean Water 2026 calendar is available for free in the Holmes Beach City Hall lobby. Funded by the city, the colorful 17" x 11" wall calendar is affiliated with the Islanders 4 Clean Water community initiative and the Ad Hoc Clean Water Committee that meets monthly at city hall and features residents and representatives from Holmes Beach, Anna Maria and Longboat Key. The calendar features a different water/ environmental theme each month. Featuring native flowers, the January theme is "Connect with local roots." The accompanying monthly message says, "Native plants are essential for healthy ecosystems. They provide food and shelter for wildlife, maintain soil and water balance, and even help mitigate climate change. Planting natives in your yard supports biodiversity, honors Florida's natural heritage and creates a more resilient environment." The February theme is "Speak for the trees." Learn more about the Islanders 4 Clean Water initiative at Islanders4cleanwater.com.
Roser Church welcomes new director of music On Dec. 21, Edita Urbon started as the new director of music ministry at the Roser Church in Anna Maria. Urbon grew up in Soviet-occupied Lithuania, in a time and place where religion was forbidden, churches were monitored and people who sought Urbon God were often punished or silenced. "Faith was something we carried quietly, secretly and very deeply in our hearts," she said in the church's press release. "The very fact that I can now serve openly in a church is something I never take for granted. It feels like a gift, a freedom and a calling."
Correction Renegades motorcycle club member Tim “Chopstixxx” Miller’s brother’s name is Dave Lee. A story in last week’s Sun incorrectly stated Dave’s last name.
PALMA SOLA BAY – As captain of Anne’s Calmwater Charters, Anne Huber enjoys sharing her knowledge about manatees, dolphins and the local waters, but there is one question she’s often asked that’s difficult to answer. On a recent boat tour of Palma Sola Bay, Huber pointed out a number of moored boats – some were taking on water, some partially sunken and many with registration numbers removed. “Sometimes people will ask me about these boats,” Huber said. “I just tell them they’ll be removed eventually and crushed.” Huber pointed out seagrass in shallow waters and mangroves lining the shoreline that can be destroyed by drifting unmanned vessels. Residents of nearby Flamingo Cay ask the same question as Huber’s customers: Why do the apparently derelict boats remain? “The derelict boats have been an increasing concern to our neighborhood, as well as other neighborhoods around the beautiful Palma Sola Bay,” Flamingo Cay resident Keith Burchett wrote in an email to The Sun. “I would say that the problem appeared to be worse once the county started to make preparations to replace the Cortez bridge,” he wrote. “As of this morning, there is a sunk boat in the bay without lights that is causing a safety hazard and another boat drifted to the beach last week. It has since been removed from the beach, but I do not know when or by whom.” Burchett said at least one of the boats was listed on a short-term rental website. “Twice people came to my door asking how to get on the boat,” Burchett wrote. “We have never seen the rented derelict boats move. One has to wonder what is happening to the wastewater after the rental. I shudder to think they might be dumping the waste into the bay.”
JOE HENDRICKS | SUN
Above, this cabin cruisier was recently demolished and removed at the Palma Sola Boat Ramp. Left, this boat in Palma Sola Bay appears to have taken on water and is one of many boats in the bay that cause concern for boaters and nearby residents.
LESLIE LAKE | SUN
Burchett said government agencies are aware of the problem, but do not claim jurisdiction over the derelict boats. “Unfortunately, this is a problem for all of Manatee County. Palma Sola Bay has a long history of reported pollution creating unsafe conditions for swimming,” Burchett wrote. “These boats contribute to the problem due to human waste, gas, and oil being leeched every time a derelict boat sinks or comes adrift onto the beach. I am not an expert, but everyone knows if a boat has become too expensive for the owner, and it is legal just to anchor the boat in the water and leave it, the problem becomes the taxpayers' problem at the end of the day.” Another Flamingo Cay resident who asked not to be named spoke to The Sun.
“I’ve called FWC (Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission), but nobody seems to want to do anything about this because they (the boats) are not blocking the channel,” he said. Derelict boats come under the jurisdiction of the FWC and local law enforcement agencies. “Derelict and at-risk vessels are a concern because they can endanger marine life and habitat, pose threats to public safety and cause property damage as they drift on or beneath the water’s surface. Derelict vessels that block navigable waterways can also pose a navigational hazard. Law enforcement officers with the FWC, as well as state, county and local officers, conduct periodic inspections and take appropriate actions to reduce the risk these vessels present,” according to the FWC website. Derelict boats are tagged by local agencies and reported to FWC. Intentionally dumping a vessel is a third-degree felony punishable by up to five years in prison and/or a $5,000 fine, according to FWC. It can also result in restitution to the state for the cost of removal, along with fines.
DECEMBER 31, 2025
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Cortez: The Year in Review The future use of the former Seafood Shack property remains a topic of discussion and debate headed into 2026.
“I’m so proud of Cortez right now,” Cortez Village Historical Society Vice-President Paul Dryfoos said at the festival. “After all that everybody has been through, to pull off a festival like this and make it successful is so great.”
BY LESLIE LAKE
SUN CORRESPONDENT | llake@amisun.com
CORTEZ – The future of the Manatee County-owned Seafood Shack parcel remains to be seen but progress is being made on the 98-acre FISH Preserve in Cortez.
STONE CRAB FESTIVAL
The annual Cortez Stone Crab & Music Festival was cancelled due to the community members' need to focus on rebuilding their businesses and homes. Organizers said the festival will be back.
FISH PRESERVE
The 2024 hurricanes took their toll on the 98-acre FISH (Florida Institute for Saltwater Heritage) Preserve. Allen Garner, a retired landscape architect who has been working on the preserve for many years, reported on the devastation at a Jan. 6 FISH meeting. He noted that multiple trees and plants were destroyed. In June, the FISH board approved a proposal by Garner to complete a public accessibility project at the preserve in fulfillment of a $165,000 grant from the Barancik Foundation. By year-end, the project at the pre-
SEAFOOD SHACK
LESLIE LAKE | SUN
The Seafood Shack was demolished in April to make way for the Cortez Marina. serve on Cortez Road, which included foot trails, bridges linking the east and west sides of the preserve, signs and picnic areas, was nearly completed.
FISH FESTIVAL
FISH's 43rd Annual Cortez Commercial Fishing Festival was appropriately themed, “Swamped but Never Sunk,” following the impact of
the 2024 hurricanes on the village. Mindful of continuing recovery efforts, the FISH board asked for Cortez residents’ opinions in November 2024 about holding the annual festival. Many residents agreed that a festival would be uplifting for residents following the hurricanes that swamped many homes in the village. Nearly 10,000 people attended the festival on Feb. 15 and 16.
On Dec. 31, 2024, Manatee County purchased the Seafood Shack parcel for $13 million, with the anticipated use of the property as a public boating access facility with a boat ramp, a dry storage facility and a marina. In January, county commissioners voted to explore ways to bring the hurricane-damaged Annie’s Bait and Tackle Shop on the site up to code. Following recommendations and
SEE CORTEZ, PAGE 19
6 THE SUN
The Anna Maria Island Sun
OPINION
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LETTERS TO THE EDITOR
Anna Maria mayor looks back on 2025 2025 was an interesting and challenging first year for me. I believe the team at the city did a great job completing the hurricane cleanup efforts and doing their best to help get things closer to normal. The resiliency of our residents and businesses really shined as well, and I commend all of them on their efforts. We took advantage of our hurricane experience to identify shortfalls in our preparedness and infrastructure. Contracts have been secured in advance and, if needed, the city will have a stable of debris haulers, monitors and recovery teams to provide assistance. We have identified infrastructure needs and are working on a plan to address those needs over the future. This includes an overall resiliency study, repairs to drainage swales, infiltration and stormwater outflows and an evaluation of
changes that could be made to improve our stormwater management. We have made organizational changes and investments in technology to improve efficiencies in anticipation those will result in future operational cost savings. These changes are ongoing and will continue to be refined and expanded. We focused efforts to bring back a sense of community. Our Memorial Day and Veterans Day events were huge successes. The new holiday lighting display at the Historical Museum Park, the Holiday Walk itself and Bayfest were also examples. And our City Block Parties that we started are giving our residents the opportunity to get together and enjoy each other’s company. Finally, I look forward to getting our City Pier being completed and reopened. At that time, I believe we can then say we are “back to normal."
Drop us a line
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to get off your chest? Send us a letter to the editor and have your say. Email
Mark Short
Holmes Beach mayor reflects on 2025 2025 was something for the record books. I am so thankful for the staff that we developed in Holmes Beach, as each department did an incredible job in assisting our residents and businesses recover from the hurricanes. This included a permitting process that was conducted in a professional and timely manner in order to get our homeowners back into their homes and our businesses up and running again just as quickly as possible. Our improved Community Rating System rating increased our citizens' flood insurance discounts from 20% to 25% and that was another great accomplishment. Our public works department was able to return our city to its glory in time for our 75-year anniversary event at City Field and everyone had a great time joining in our celebration. The resilience of our community is incredible and I am truly thankful to all who assisted in our recovery. I wish everyone a truly Happy New Year!
Anna Maria mayor
Judy Titsworth
Holmes Beach mayor
The Sun at news@amisun. com and write Letter to the Editor in the subject field. 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 and content.
DECEMBER 31, 2025
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ANNA MARIA: The Year in Review FROM PAGE 1 walkway that was mostly destroyed by Hurricane Milton. In late September, the city commission unanimously supported Short's recommendation to enter into a $4.64 million base contract with Tampa Bay Marine for the construction of the new pier walkway to be built atop solid concrete pilings similar to those that support the still-standing buildings at the T-end of the pier. Tampa Bay Marine began driving the new pilings in late November. As of Dec. 26, most of the pilings had been driven and they will soon be trimmed to their final height. The Tampa Bay Marine contract calls for the new pier walkway is to be completed by March 31.
FERRY LANDING
Throughout the year, city and county officials engaged in several discussions pertaining to the county-funded installation of a new Gulf Islands Ferry landing alongside the new City Pier walkway. No final design decisions have been made yet, and those discussions remain ongoing, but there is preliminary city commission consensus to allow some type of ferry stop at the pier when it reopens. County officials seek a City Pier ferry landing that will accommodate the new,
JOE HENDRICKS | SUN
These warning signs were installed at Bean Point in late September. partially enclosed, 100,000-pound, 96-passenger Manatee Belle ferry boat that recently arrived and is expected to go into service at some point in January – joining the fleet that already includes two 49-passenger pontoon boats. County officials expect to soon implement a ferry stop at the Coquina Boat Ramp in Bradenton Beach and in 2026 they hope to implement additional ferry stops in Holmes Beach and Palmetto too.
NO-SWIM ZONE
On Sept. 2, Mayor Short implemented a temporary no-swim zone at Bean Point in response to a fatal drowning that occurred on Aug. 31 and multiple other water rescues
941-798-9010
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ON THE AGENDA
ANNA MARIA
that occurred in the dangerous Bean Point rip currents that month. On Sept. 11, city commissioners adopted a 60-day emergency ordinance that temporarily formalized the no-swim zone. When doing so, the commission created a swimming exemption for a limited number of Bean Point homeowners and property owners. On Sept. 15, Short vetoed the emergency ordinance because allowing some homeowners to continue swimming, while prohibiting others from doing the same, created enforcement inconsistencies. On Sept. 25, new signs were installed at Bean Point that say, “Warning. Dangerous Currents. Swim at Your Own Risk. No Lifeguards.”
10005 GULF DRIVE FOR INFORMATION, CALL 941-708-6130
Visit www.cityofannamaria.com or contact city hall for more information. No meetings scheduled. Thursday, Jan. 1, City Hall closed in observance of New Year's Day.
BRADENTON BEACH
107 GULF DRIVE N. FOR INFORMATION, CALL 941-778-1005
Visit www.cityofbradentonbeach. com or contact city hall for more information. Thursday, Jan. 1, City Hall closed in observance of New Year's Day. Wednesday, Jan. 7, 1 p.m., Planning and Zoning Board meeting.
HURRICANE RECOVERY
In January, more than 300 Build Back the Beach volunteers planted nearly 30,000 native plants along the hurricane-ravaged Anna Maria shoreline between Bean Point and Sycamore Avenue. On Oct. 4, the temporary post office trailer at City Pier Park closed (and was later removed) and on Oct. 6 the Anna Maria Post Office reopened in its regular location at 101B South Bay Boulevard.
SEE ANNA MARIA, PAGE 23
HOLMES BEACH
5801 MARINA DRIVE FOR INFORMATION, CALL 941-708-5800
Visit www.holmesbeachfl.org or contact city hall for more information. Thursday, Jan. 1, City Hall closed in observance of New Year's Day. Wednesday, Jan. 7, 10 a.m., Parks and Beautification Committee meeting. Wednesday, Jan. 7, 3:30 p.m., Planning Commission meeting.
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DECEMBER 31, 2025
Holmes Beach couple completes 110th jigsaw puzzle Fran and Wayne Derr starting doing jigsaw puzzles during the COVID-19 pandemic. BY JOE HENDRICKS
SUN CORRESPONDENT | jhendricks@amisun.com
HOLMES BEACH – Fran and Wayne Derr started working on their 111th jigsaw puzzle on Sunday, Dec. 28. The Holmes Beach residents live in the Key Royale community and they began doing jigsaw puzzles a little more than five years ago. "In March 2020, the states began to implement shutdowns in order to prevent the spread of COVID-19, which forced us to stay at home for the most part," Fran explained. "So, to find an enjoyable way to pass away the time that we were spending in our home, Wayne and I started doing puzzles. We called it our own little Happy Hour! Most days, in the afternoons, we’d start working on a puzzle, with Wayne fixing me a margarita
FRAN DERR | SUBMITTED
This framed "Cat Close Up" puzzle hangs in the couple's foyer.
FRAN DERR | SUBMITTED
Wayne and Fran Derr just finished their 110th puzzle: the holiday-themed “Vintage Main Street.” Wayne (right) working on "Barcelona" puzzle that didn't get finished. and himself a bourbon." The couple shares photos of their completed puzzles on Facebook and Fran said their friends looks forward to seeing their finished works. "Our first puzzle was posted on Facebook on June 10, 2020. It was titled 'Beach.' How appropri-
ate! Here we were stuck in our homes at the beach but we could still jump in our car and leave the house and go for a walk on the beach," Fran said. "In July 2020, we actually did five puzzles that month! Most were 500 pieces, but we managed a couple of 1,000-piece puzzles as well.
"Over the past five years of doing puzzles, we did fall in love' with one puzzle, 'Cat Close Up,' which we had framed and is on the wall in our foyer," Fran said. When asked about the most difficult puzzle they've attempted, Fran said an old friend in Atlanta sent them a classic
wooden puzzle titled "Barcelona" that was so difficult they had to give up on it. "However, we did complete some difficult puzzles and the 'Cat Close Up' puzzle we had framed is one of them," Fran said. "COVID-19 has long passed us by, but we are still enjoying doing puzzles and posting on Facebook. This hobby and pastime of ours has made it easy for friends and relatives to give us puzzles as gifts! We are now past 110 puzzles and we are still going!" Fran said.
DECEMBER 31, 2025
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Anna Maria Island: An aerial view JOE HENDRICKS
SUN CORRESPONDENT | jhendricks@amisun.com
ANNA MARIA ISLAND – In late June, west Bradenton resident and major commercial airline pilot Chris Meek took a Sun reporter on a flight over Anna Maria Island. The flight occurred in a small, two-seat Cessna 150 Commuter plane that was built in 1975 and is now owned by Chris and Shannon Meek's son, Dillon, and their nephew, Zachary – both of whom were working on getting their pilot licenses at the time. The June flight originated at the Manatee Airport in Palmetto that features open-air hangers and a grass runway. After flying over the Sunshine Skyway Bridge and Fort De Soto Park, Meek piloted the plane toward Anna Maria Island and flew from Anna Maria to Bradenton Beach and back. He then flew east over Manatee Avenue and passed near his Bradenton home on the return flight back to the Manatee Airport. Chris' lifelong interest in aviation dates back to when he first flew with his uncle during his early childhood in New Orleans and aviation remains a family affair for the Meeks. Shannon is a flight attendant for the same airline Chris flies for and their daughter, Hannah, has also been a part of the family's aviation travels and adventures.
JOE HENDRICKS | SUN
Commercial airline pilot Chris Meek gave The Sun an aerial tour of Anna Maria Island.
JOE HENDRICKS | SUN
Bean Point is at the northern tip of Anna Maria Island.
JOE HENDRICKS | SUN
JOE HENDRICKS | SUN
The Coquina Beach shoreline offers plenty of space for beachgoers.
The Bradenton Beach shoreline, near the AMI Moose Lodge and the BeachHouse restaurant.
JOE HENDRICKS | SUN
The historic Egmont Key lighthouse still stands tall. Right, the Anna Maria City Pier, before the remains of the hurricanedamaged walkway were demolished and removed.
JOE HENDRICKS | SUN
Back-to-back hurricanes and decisions made by the park owners forced many residents to permanently vacate their mobile homes in the Pines Trailer Park in Bradenton Beach. Left, The Holmes Beach shoreline near Manatee Beach.
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Roser Church
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Receive the eNewsletter • Sign up 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
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Participants in the 2023 Clancy’s Shamrock Shiver took the plunge for local charities.
Clancy’s Shamrock Shiver charity plunge happens New Year’s Day Costumed participants in the Clancy’s Irish Pub 18th annual Shamrock Shiver Charity Plunge will enter the cool Gulf waters on Jan. 1 to raise funds for local charities. The charity plunge will take place at Coquina Beach at noon. Costumes are encouraged and a costume contest will be held at the beach at 11:30 a.m. After the event, the party and the fundraising will continue at Clancy’s with live and silent auctions, raffles and live
music by the Dr. Dave Band from 1-3 p.m. and Rye Road from 4-6 p.m. The proceeds from this year’s event will benefit Healthy Teens Inc., The Blessing Bags Project and Hungers End – three non-profit organizations that help disadvantaged children in Manatee and Sarasota Counties. Since 2009, Clancy’s annual charity plunge has raised $407,567 for local charities. Clancy’s Irish Pub is located at 6218 Cortez Road W. in Bradenton.
DECEMBER 31, 2025
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BRADENTON BEACH: 2025 year in review repairs so people can get back into their homes and then work on new construction permits,” Palmer wrote in an email to The Sun.
FROM PAGE 1 property owner had confirmed the planned redevelopment of the parcel. The Pines Trailer Park Homeowners Association (HOA) Inc. filed a lawsuit against Pines Park Investors LLC in part to stop evic¬tions and the park’s closure. On Aug. 8 the suit was dismissed pending a confidential settlement agreement allowing residents to remain at the park for an undisclosed length of time.
DRIFT-IN TIKI BAR
106 23RD STREET N.
With 85% of a building project completed under a 2024 city permit, a stop work order was issued at 106 23rd St. N. by city Building Official Bill Palmer, who said the prior permit for the two-story addition was approved in error by the previous building official. After discussion at five city commission meetings, commissioners reached a compromise solution and approved a special use permit for the property.
TURTLES
With the loss of sand dunes from Hurricanes Helene and Milton last year, Anna Maria Island Turtle Watch and Shorebird Monitoring Executive Director Kristen Mazzarella expressed concern about a possible increase in sea turtle disori¬entations. “Without dunes as a barrier, hatchlings and adult sea turtles that head towards artificial light may find their way into the road,” Maz¬zarella said Hay bales were placed along beaches to mimic dunes.
TURTLE RELEASE
Hundreds of onlookers gathered at Coquina Beach on June 23 for
LESLIE LAKE | SUN
Drift-In celebrates 100 years in Bradenton Beach after undergoing major development process and easement exchange with city following construction of a larger tiki hut. a scheduled loggerhead sea turtle release. The sea turtle, named Winnie, had laid her nest earlier that day and was outfitted with a satellite tag prior to her release. She participated in the Sea Turtle Conservancy’s Tour de Turtles race and finished in 10th place.
GREEN TURTLE RECORD
Anna Maria Island Turtle Watch and Shorebird Monitoring celebrated green turtles breaking their 2023 record of 12 nests on Anna Maria Island. “We now have 13 green turtle nests on the Island and hope to get even more before nesting season comes to a close,” Turtle Watch Executive Director Kristen Mazzarella wrote in a July 25 email. The majority of turtle nests on Anna Maria Island are laid by loggerhead sea turtles.
BUILDING OFFICIAL TERMINATION
The city suspended the contrac-
tual services of Building Official Darin Cushing on Jan. 22 pending discussion at an upcoming city commission meeting. Mayor John Chappie did not give a reason for the suspension, but the city had been at odds with Cushing over his approval of a permit for the tiki hut at Drift-In on Bridge Street. On Jan. 21 Cushing had posted on Facebook, writing in part: “They’re trying to take me out to bend over for developers. I will not compromise my integrity or my license.” Chappie read aloud a memo at a Feb. 20 city commission meeting addressing the job performance of Cushing, outlining what the city said were deficiencies in his performance. Bill Palmer, the city’s new building official, began work on March 5 and laid out a timeline as he stepped into his new role. “My initial focus as building official will be reviewing the permits we have in backlog for storm-related
The construction of a tiki hut at the Drift-In bar triggered a major development application. City Attorney Ricinda Perry said at a Jan. 16 city commission meeting that a permit approved by Cushing for the construction should not have been issued based on the city-owned easements on the property, as well as the size of the new tiki structure. She said the project should be classified as a major development and must undergo a public hearing process. Commissioners unanimously approved the Drift-In’s major development application on April 8. The Bridge Street bar reopened, at least temporarily, pending city review, on April 4. City commissioners unanimously approved an amended easement agreement at a July 17 meeting. In October, the Drift-In celebrated 100 years in Bradenton Beach
BUNGALOW BEACH
Bungalow Beach Resort owner Gayle Luper filed a lawsuit against the city after commissioners denied her a permit to offer paid parking through the use of a resort pass. Commissioners questioned paid public parking through the purchase of a resort pass, saying the beachfront bungalows at 2000 Gulf Drive N. had been destroyed during Hurricane Helene.
SEE BRADENTON BEACH, PAGE 23
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12 THE SUN
WWW.AMISUN.COM - CELEBRATING 25 YEARS
October 2025 tourist tax collections compared to October 2024 Anna Maria Bradenton Beach Holmes Beach Unincorporated Mantee County Manatee County Total
61% 354% 39.3% 1% 23.3%
Manatee County’s 6% tourist development tax (resort tax) is collected from hotel, motel, resort, condo and other short-term vacation accommodations rented for six months or less. The amounts shown were collected for October and paid to the Manatee County Tax Collector’s Office in November. A third of the tax revenues are spent on marketing the county as a tourist destination and almost 17% is spent on beach renourishment. In Anna Maria, October tourist tax revenues increased from $144,163 in 2024 to $232,321 in 2025 – an $88,158 (61%) increase. In Bradenton Beach, October tourist tax revenues increased from $17,739 in 2024 to $80,565 in 2025 – a $62,826 (354%) increase. In Holmes Beach, October tourist tax revenues increased from $266,762 in 2024 to $371,628 in 2025 – a $104,866 (39.3%) increase. In unincorporated Manatee County (the areas located outside of the six chartered municipalities), October tourist tax revenues increased from $676,897 in 2024 to $683,711 in 2025 – a $6,814 (1%) increase. In Manatee County as a whole, October tourist tax revenues increased from $1,348,980 in 2024 to $1,663,373 in 2025 – a $314,393 (23.3%) increase. Tourist development taxes are also collected in Bradenton, Palmetto and the Manatee County portion of Longboat Key. The revenues are controlled by the Manatee County Commission and can be shared with local municipalities to help fund tourism-related projects and enhancements. To anonymously report a rental owner who may not be paying the tourist tax, call 941-741-4809 or visit the county’s tourist tax evader webpage at www.taxcollector.com/contact-tourist-tax-evader.cfm.
DECEMBER 31, 2025
DECEMBER 31, 2025
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Privateers, Drift-In raise scholarship funds The Anna Maria Island Privateers and the Drift-In bar in Bradenton Beach teamed up for their annual Christmas at the Drift fundraiser on Saturday, Dec. 20. The proceeds will help the Privateers provide scholarships to local students. DRIFT-IN | SUBMITTED Raising nearly $5,000, The Wagon of Cheer was won by the fundraising activities Steve Abraham. included a lotto board raffle, a liquor-filled Wagon of Cheer raffle, a holiday buffet, pirate mercantile, live music and a visit from Santa. Steve Abraham won the Wagon of Cheer and Nick Barfield won the lottery board filled with scratch-off lottery tickets that surrounded a $100 bill.
14 THE SUN
OUTDOORS
DECEMBER 31, 2025
Resolutions that bear fruit Reel Time RUSTY CHINNIS
N
ew Year’s resolutions are an annual ritual that goes back over 4,000 years. The earliest known resolutions come from the ancient Babylonians. During their Akitu New Year festival (held in March), people made promises to the gods – such as returning borrowed tools, paying debts or settling disputes to earn divine favor for the coming year. Failure to keep these vows was believed to invite bad fortune. In modern times, resolutions are a time to look back and reflect on what matters most, how we feel about our lives and what changes might improve our situation. It’s also a time to consider what positive actions and fresh
explorations might be planned for the new year. Anglers can glean some valuable insight by reviewing their year in fishing, examining what they learned from their days on the water, what their experiences revealed and assess how this knowledge might lead to improved success and enjoyment in 2026. While many resolutions are made and forgotten rather quickly (think losing weight or exercising more), a look back on the small things that yielded big results can make a significant difference in your enjoyment on the water in the new year. Tackle and organization are promising places to review, including equipment like your boat and motor, waders, push pole and trolling motor. Experience teaches it’s the little things that we overlook that come back to haunt us. An example might be remem-
bering to carefully tie knots, inspecting and testing them before fishing. The same applies to sharpening hooks, checking the drag and inspecting line for nicks and abrasions. Another resolution you might consider is to expand your horizon – the proverbial "stepping outside the box." That could mean exploring spots you’ve never fished locally, like the Manatee and Braden Rivers, or exploring a little further north and south. Some of my favorite destinations include Chassahowitzka National Wildlife Refuge, Homosassa, Crystal River and Waccasassa Bay to the north and Charlotte Harbor and Pine Island Sound to our south. An even more important resolution that is in every angler’s interest is getting involved in protecting and restoring the resource that sustains our passion and determines the fishing success of future generations.
DAMON MOORE | SUBMITTED
A resolution in action: Volunteers work to install habitat for oysters in Oyster River Ecology's 10-acre site in the upper Manatee River. Fishermen have the most to lose by not working to protect and restore local waters and habitat. This can be as simple as picking up trash on the water or keeping an eye out for and reporting illegal mangrove trimming. Most importantly it’s critical that we vet local, state and national politicians on how they voted on matters that affect the water we drink and swim in and the fish we pursue. If we vote the party line rather than on the issues that affect our fishing future we’re working against our own self-interest.
Take the time to write letters, attend commission meetings and join and support organizations like Suncoast Waterkeeper, Oyster River Ecology, Sarasota Bay Watch, and VoteWater. These organizations work to protect and restore our marine ecosystem. A resolution to act this year will help protect what we value most for today's and future generations. Failure to act will, as the Babylonians predicted, bring bad fortune. Happy New Year!
DECEMBER 31, 2025
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January fishing forecast CAPT. RICK GRASSETT
January can be one of the toughest months of the year to fish. However, if you are able to choose when to fish based on tides and weather, it can be good. Action is usually good as weather fronts approach. Following fronts, fishing may be tough for a couple of days so afternoons may fish better at that time. You may find reds and big trout concentrated in potholes in January. Action with trout, blues, Spanish mackerel, pompano and more on deep grass flats can be good depending on conditions. There should also be good catch and release snook action in rivers, creeks and canals this month, although fishing docks for snook and
CAPT. RICK GRASSETT | SUBMITTED
Jerry Poslusny, of Palmetto, during a previous January fishing excursion with Capt. Rick Grassett. other species is also a good option. It may be worth checking the coastal Gulf for tripletail, cobia, false albacore (little tunny) and more when it’s warm. Snook season is closed during January, although catch and release
fishing is allowed. They are temperature sensitive, so use tackle heavy enough to catch and release them quickly with as little handling as possible. Since they are fragile, I won’t target them if the water temperature dips below 60 degrees.
Fishing lighted docks in the ICW at night with lures and flies can be very good in January. Small white flies, like my Grassett Snook Minnow, Gurglers and shrimp fly patterns will work well for fly anglers. Spin anglers should score with live shrimp, CAL jigs with shad tails or 4” jerk worms, DOA Tiny TerrorEyz and DOA 2-3/4” & 3” Shrimp. Fish peak tidal flows for the best action. Full regulations and details for all species can be viewed at https:// myfwc.com/. You should also find snook in rivers, creeks and canals this month. Fish deeper water in outside bends to locate snook where you may catch them with CAL
SEE GRASSETT, PAGE 17
SUBMITTED
Fly fishing school on Jan. 10 CB’s Saltwater Outfitters, at 1249 Stickney Point Road in Sarasota, will hold an Orvis-endorsed fly fishing school on Saturday, Jan. 10. Designed for beginning and intermediate fly casters, the class will focus on basic fly casting principles, improving casting skills and correcting faults. Certified 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 approximately noon, is $225 per person and includes the use of fly tackle and a workbook. Optional instructional guided fly fishing trips are also available for an additional fee. Contact CB’s Saltwater Outfitters at 941-349-4400 to make reservations.
16 THE SUN
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REAL ESTATE
DECEMBER 31, 2025
Financially irrational real estate market
oday is New Year’s Eve, traditionally the night of hope for the new year, resolutions and good wishes. When it comes to the real estate market, 2026 isn’t promising much of a variation from the old year, but hope is eternal and humans are optimistic. Homeowners are locked in place trapped by their low-interest rate mortgages designed as a vaccination against recession when the pandemic hit. This is not a new topic; anyone who reads real estate news online or in the paper can find discussions practically every day about why homeowners with high equity and low mortgages won’t move. There are millions of homeowners who are wealthier on paper than at any time in history. They have record equity, incrediable low interest rates and many with homes that have appreciated by double digits in only a few years. So, what’s the problem? You would think they would be running to their local broker to list their home and cash
Castles in the Sand LOUISE BOLGER in. The problem is, per Realtor.com, for these owners to buy a typical home in today’s market would require an estimated payment of more than 73% than they currently pay. For most that’s a non-starter; even if they can afford the extra payment, the physiological effect won’t let them budge. When mortgage rates started falling, almost overnight, to as low as 3%, demand surged for the lower rate to refinance or to purchase. Buyers saw a pathway to purchase their first home or move up home because with lower rates the monthly carrying costs took a nosedive resulting in more people qualifying for higher mortgages.
With buyers coming out of the woodwork, it didn’t take long for the inventory to get snapped up, pushing prices upward. Builders were attracting buyers so fast the supply chain could not keep up the labor, supplies and zoning changes necessary to meet the overwhelming response. All of this competition pushed prices up so far that values surged by 25% to 40% in some markets. Needless to say, homeowners were celebrating their new equity and looking down the road at long-term stability. But if it’s too good to be true, it usually is, and it didn’t take long for inflation to take over, forcing the Feds to move rates in the opposite direction. Within 18 months mortgage rates more than doubled, passing over the 7% mark. This dried up the refinance market and buyers were having trouble living with the shortage of inventory and higher priced properties, along with a doubling of interest rates. The real estate market froze, but not because of a lack of homes alone. It froze
because those who owned homes couldn’t justify leaving them. This is completely the opposite of a healthy market. A healthy market should encourage mobility, opening up space for new home buyers, keeping the cycle going. The real estate structure needs some creative ideas and one of them is portable and assumable mortgages. At one point we had a fair number of assumable mortgages, but that market is rarely offered anymore. Portable mortgages exist in other countries and would certainly open up the mobility of properties. Also, incentives to downsize, like tax credits and closing cost incentives, could also unlock homes. Whatever it is, someone should take the lead on this, whether it’s lenders or political office holders. Paying more for less is not in the American DNA so it may take a long time to release millions of homeowners from the mortgage trap. Happy New Year and best wishes for a prosperous year.
DECEMBER 31, 2025
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THE SUN
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GRASSETT: January fishing forecast FROM PAGE 15 jigs and shad tails or jerk worms or DOA Baitbusters. You may also find reds, juvenile tarpon and even largemouth bass in the same areas depending on salinity. Reds should be a good option this month. You’ll find them concentrated in potholes or tailing on shallow flats when the tide is low. You’ll need weedless rigged plastic baits or flies with weed guards to target tailing reds. A CAL shad tail on a weedless hook or a DOA shrimp rigged weedless are a couple of my favorite lures for tailing reds. You may also find reds around docks, along with snook, sheepshead and flounder. Little Sarasota Bay has numerous oyster bars and docks that often hold reds in January. Work CAL jigs slowly along the bottom for the best action. You’re likely to find big trout in many of the same areas that you find reds. In my opinion, it’s important to protect larger trout, which are usually female breeders. The same lures, flies and techniques that are used for reds will also work for big trout. You’ll also find trout on deep grass flats in January along with blues, Spanish mackerel, pompano and flounder. I like to drift and cast ahead of my drift
with CAL jigs and a variety of plastic tails and DOA Deadly Combos. Since trout can sometimes hold very tight to a particular spot or area, try to cover as much water as possible to find them. Once you’ve located fish you can shorten your drift or anchor on them. A GPS can be useful for this type of fishing since the breadcrumb trail will allow you to duplicate your drift. A drift anchor will slow your drift so you can fish it more thoroughly or make it easier for fly anglers to move their fly. My favorite deep grass flats have a good mix of grass and sand with a strong tidal flow. Even though there may not be much happening in the coastal Gulf this month, it may be worth a look when it is warm. Migratory species such as Spanish mackerel, cobia and tripletail probably have moved further south, however they could reappear during warm ups. Also look for false albacore (little tunny) when it’s warm since they may move from offshore to inshore depending on where baitfish are located. Our natural resources are under constant pressure from red tides fueled by agricultural, industrial and residential runoff, toxic spills and discharges, freezes, increasing fishing pressure and habitat loss and degradation. Please limit your kill, don’t kill your limit!
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Anna Maria Island Single Family Home 154 Crescent Drive, Anna Maria 3BR/3BA / A4675421 / $1,995,000 Rennie Evans (310) 437-9336
Lakebridge Villa 3625 57th Ave Dr W. #43, Bradenton 3BR/2BA A4672591/ $324,900 Greg Leksich (260) 450-2114
Wildewood Springs Condo 149 Wild Palm Dr., #149 2BR/2BA A4674897/ $195,500 Jennifer Anderson (941) 545--5586
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Harbor House South Condo 400 Golden Gate Pt #11, Sarasota 3BR/2BA / A4671447/ $1,350,000 Miguel Rosa (941) 447-5928
Cambridge Village Condo 6418 Bowdoin Place #6418, Bradenton 2BR/2BA A4675198/ $305,000 Mary Collandra (941) 704-7095
Anna Maria Island Single Family Home 519 Villa Rosa Way, Anna Maria 4BR/4/5 BA / A4671485/ $5,000,000 Ed Taaffe (636) 346-6165
El Conquistador Village SFH 4124 Pinar Drive, Bradenton 3BR/2BA A4673184/ $699,900 Marsha Winegarden (248) 563-2820 Kristine Marose (813) 517-5723
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Island Players plot "Murder by Misadventure' Two TV writers blur the lines between fictional murder and actually committing murder. BY JOE HENDRICKS
SUN CORRESPONDENT | jhendricks@amisun.com
ANNA MARIA – The Island Players will begin the new year with their production of "Murder by Misadventure." The Island Players' press release describes the third production of the Island Players' 202526 season as "a taut and twisty British thriller by Edward Taylor that keeps audiences guessing until the very last moment." "Murder by Misadventure" opens Thursday, Jan. 8 and runs through Sunday, Jan. 25. "Two television mystery writers – brilliant, competitive and bound together by old wounds – believe they’ve crafted the perfect on-screen murder. But life begins to imitate art when buried grudges and dark secrets resurface," the press release says. "As their partnership fractures, the line between plotting a murder and committing one starts to vanish. Expect tense thrills, clever reversals, and a sharply drawn psychological duel that would make 'Deathtrap,' fans proud. "Directed by Heiko Knipfelberg, this suspenseful production showcases an ensemble cast that leans into the show’s classic British
mood: crisp dialogue, unexpected twists, and a slow-burn escalation toward danger. It’s the kind of high-stakes, tightly wound theatre that keeps audiences perched on the edge of their seats," the press release says. The cast includes Island Players' veterans Sylvia Marnie, Kristin Mazzitelli and Eric Johnson and the production is coproduced by Ginny's & Jane E's Café. Tickets are $28 for adults, $18 for students and can be purchased online at www.theislandplayers.org. Tickets can also be purchased at the Island Players box office Monday through Saturday from 9 a.m. to
BEACH BEAT HOLMES BEACH
ISLAND PLAYERS | SUBMITTED
1 p.m. beginning Tuesday Jan. 2 and continuing through Saturday, Jan. 27. Tickets can also be purchased at the box office an hour before showtime. For more ticketing information, call 941-778-5755. The Island Players Theatre is located at 10009 Gulf Drive in Anna Maria.
Dec. 17, 11:40 a.m., 3000 block East Bay Drive. Out of county warrant. Holmes Beach police were notified by Sarasota County Sheriff’s Office Narcotics Unit that a vehicle they were following was heading to Holmes Beach. The registered owner of the vehicle, a 28-yearold Bradenton woman, had an active warrant out of Sarasota for trafficking narcotics. The vehicle and driver were located in a parking lot. She was transferred first to the Holmes Beach Police Department where SCSO conducted their interview, then custody was transferred to the Manatee County Sheriff’s Office. Dec. 20, 12:14 a.m., East Bay Drive. Drug equipment/possession. A female approached officers asking for help in locating a property she had rented years earlier with her late husband.
DECEMBER 31, 2025
According to police, she gave a vague description of the property and officers noted open sores on her face, missing teeth and unique mannerisms, suggesting narcotics use. Police ran the car’s license plate and found the registered owner had an expired driver’s license. Police conducted a traffic stop and said the male driver was unable to find his ID, proof of registration and proof of insurance. A towing company was called to take possession of the vehicle. The woman who had approached officers earlier was in the passenger seat. Upon conducting an inventory search of the vehicle, police reportedly located a capsule with a white substance which tested positive for methamphetamine. Police then searched a backpack and purse and reportedly recovered multiple items of drug paraphernalia, along with suspected drugs. She was charged with drug equipment possession or use. Police said once the substances are tested further charges may be added.
DECEMBER 31, 2025
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CORTEZ: FISH Preserve progresses, Seafood Shack property plans in limbo FROM PAGE 5 reviews by a structural engineer, fire officials and the Florida Department of Emergency Management, Manatee County commissioners voted 6-1 in March to demolish the historic Annie’s to make way for the future Cortez Marina. The demolition of Annie’s on April 16 marked a sad day in Cortez, as years of memories for many were reduced to a pile of rubble. More than a 70-year-old building, Annie’s held a wide array of meaning for those who came to watch the demolition. For some, it was the first stop for a day on the water for ice, beer, gas and bait; for others, it was a spot to unwind on the patio for dinner and drinks; and for many, it was one of the last standing local tributes to Florida heritage. The Seafood Shack, a waterfront restaurant and events venue, was demolished on April 21. The parcel, consisting of approximately 5.9 acres, remains fenced off. The county conducted five informational community open houses attended by 313 people. Common concerns were traffic congestion, water quality, preserving the character of the area and a boat ramp’s traffic and noise impacts on adjacent neighborhoods.
LESLIE LAKE | SUN
The Cortez Commercial Fishing Festival in February was a much-needed boost to the hurricane-impacted village LESLIE LAKE | SUN
The Florida Institute for Saltwater Heritage's 98-acre preserve has undergone public accessibility improvements. A group of Cortez residents has mobilized in opposition to the proposed boat ramps at the former Seafood Shack property. The group, Concerned Citizens of Cortez Coalition (CCCC), represents 327 Cortez families. The CCCC is expressing concern about boat ramps in a residential area, citing issues including traffic and congestion, safety, environmental stress, impact on property values and noise issues. Citing strong opposition from Cortez residents, along with lack of funding to complete a proposed boat ramp, Manatee
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County commissioners floated the idea on Dec. 16 of making the Seafood Shack site a public park, at least temporarily. Commissioners asked county staff to return in February with two conceptual designs – one with a boat ramp and one without.
SLICKER'S REOPENS
The doors to Slicker’s Eatery reopened 128 days after the flooding from Hurricane Helene swamped the restaurant. “It feels tremendous to be open,”
owner Bob Slicker said. “We’re all so relieved. After four months of money going out for the staff and myself, we’re just happy to put a Band-Aid on it and start moving forward.” Slicker had been unprepared for the sight that greeted him after the September 2024 hurricane, when he found tables, chairs and dishes askew and floating, freezers flipped over, a dumpster pushed into the middle of Cortez Road and an ice machine broken in two and wedged against the door. “My staff was here every day I needed them, from the day of the hurricane to opening back up. As a team, I haven’t lost one employee,” he said.
20 THE SUN
WWW.AMISUN.COM - CELEBRATING 25 YEARS
DECEMBER 31, 2025
PERSON OF THE YEAR: The entire Anna Maria Island Community FROM PAGE 1 The wide-ranging recovery, restoration and rebuilding efforts included city leaders, city staff members, hurricane-impacted residents, local builders, contractors, subcontractors and skilled trade workers, business and restaurant owners and employees, community event organizers, non-profit organizations, Realtors, real estate agents and their support staffs and the vacation rental owners, managers and support staff that helped accommodate the returning tourists and visitors that supported the Island's hurricaneimpacted, tourism-based economy.
THREE CITIES, ONE ISLAND
JOE HENDRICKS | SUN
Anna Maria Mayor Mark Short, Bradenton Beach Mayor John Chappie and Holmes Beach Mayor Judy Titsworth helped lead the recovery and restoration efforts taking place in their cities. The mayors were assisted by the city commissions and commissioners that govern the cities; and the mayors and commissioners were assisted by the volunteer committee members and advisory board members who provided their valuable insights and assistance. Anna Maria General Manager Dean Jones, Bradenton Beach Public Works Director (and police chief) John Cosby and now-departed Holmes Beach Public Works Director Sage Kamiya played critical roles in guiding their departments through the recovery efforts. The hurricanes also reminded us of the important work done by the Island's building and planning departments, and the impacts their work has on the construction community and the Island's residents, property owners and business owners. Anna Maria City Planner Ashley Austin, Bradenton Beach Building Official Bill Palmer, Holmes Beach Development Services Director Chad Minor, Holmes Beach Building Official Neal Schwartz and Holmes Beach Development Services Coordinator Kim Charron were among those who played important roles in the recovery efforts.
Bayfest and other public events helped restore Anna Maria Island's sense of community. The three building departments were greatly assisted by the code enforcement/ code compliance departments led by Dave DeZutter in Anna Maria, Evan Harbus in Bradenton Beach and James "JT" Thomas in Holmes Beach. City clerks Amber LaRowe (Anna Maria), Terri Sanclemente (Bradenton Beach) and Stacey Johnston (Holmes Beach) and their staffs assisted the mayors, commissioners and fellow staff members with the recovery efforts and the daily operations of their cities. City treasurers LeAnne Addy (Anna Maria), Shayne Thompson (Bradenton Beach) and Julie Marcotte (Holmes Beach) played important roles in the reporting, tracking and accounting associated with the hurricane damage reimbursement process while also performing their regular financial duties. In terms of hurricane-related public safety, the worst had passed by the time the calendar flipped to 2025, but throughout the year Sgt. Brett Getman (Anna Maria), Police Chief Bill Tokajer (Holmes Beach) and Chief Cosby (Bradenton Beach) led the law enforcement agencies that helped provide us all with a safe place to live, work, play and visit. The Sun also recognizes the many other unnamed city staff members who helped their cities and citizens recover.
RETURN, RESTORE, REBUILD, RECOVER
The Island's return to relative normalcy couldn't have happened without the determination, resiliency and emotional fortitude of the Island's permanent residents and the financial sacrifices they made to reoccupy their beloved Island homes. Some longtime residents made the difficult decision to move off the Island, but a large percentage of the Island's already shrinking residential population returned when their homes were habitable again; and that's a testament to their love for the Island. The numerous community events held in 2025 helped foster and rejuvenate the Island's strong sense of residential community. Signature events included Bayfest, Lester Family Fun Day, the "Old Soldiers & Sailors" Veterans Day parade, Anna Maria's symphonic Memorial Day salute, the city block parties at City Pier Park, the weekly farmers market, Holmes Beach's 75th Anniversary celebration and a multitude of festive Christmas and holiday events held Island-wide. The Island's recovery would have been impossible without the construction firms, contractors, subcontractors, skilled trade workers, technicians, landscapers and service providers that repaired, restored
HOLMES BEACH: The Year in Review FROM PAGE 3 COMINGS AND GOINGS
In February, longtime city commissioner Pat Morton announced his resignation, citing social media criticism of the city's hurricane response as the primary reason. Later that month, the commission unanimously appointed planning commissioner Steve Oelke to fill the remaining months of Morton's two-year term.
In the city election that concluded Nov. 4, Oelfke was the leading vote-getter in the election that resulted in first-time candidate Jessica Patel being elected and longtime commissioner Carol Soustek not being reelected. In October, Public Works Director and City Engineer Sage Kamiya announced he had accepted an offer to serve as the city of Sarasota's new city engineer. In December, Mayor Judy Titsworth announced Herb Raybourn, a
stormwater consultant for the city, would serve as the city's next public works director and city engineer. In December, longtime City Clerk Stacey Johnston informed the mayor that she would be retiring in March. On Dec. 16, City Attorney Erica Augello participated in her final meeting as the Holmes Beach city attorney and the commission supported the mayor's appointment of Randy Mora to serve as Augello's successor. Augello will continue
and rebuilt the Island – a task that continues into 2026. The Island's return to normalcy would not have happened without the determined business owners who overcame significant financial losses and hardships to reopen their restaurants, bars, retail and rental operations and other businesses that faithfully serve the Island's residents and visitors. And while recovering themselves, the Anna Maria Island Chamber of Commerce assisted the Island's business community in its return to normalcy. Faced with hurricane-damaged structures and uncertain markets, the Island's Realtors, real estate agents, vacation rental owners, vacation rental managers and their support staffs helped bring new residents to the Island and bring back the much-needed vacationers and visitors that support the Island's tourism-based economy. The Sun also recognizes all the Island residents, locals, day-trippers and other mainland visitors whose expenditures helped the Island's businesses and establishments recover from the hurricanes. As an Island business ourselves, The Sun express our utmost appreciation and sincere gratitude to every single business that advertised with us this year. Your support helped us weather the storms. The Island churches welcomed their congregations back to worship, regroup and reconnect and the Roser Food Pantry provided food to those who needed it. The Center of Anna Maria Island provided a place to exercise, compete, learn and gather with the community. Wildlife Inc., Anna Maria Island Turtle Watch & Shorebird Monitoring and others helped care for and protect the Island's animal kingdom and marine environments. And for anyone not already recognized in this story, if you had anything to do with the Island and its recovery in 2025, thank you for anything and everything you did.
to represent the city in code compliance matters and she's also currently serving as the interim city attorney for the city of Bradenton Beach – an assignment that may become permanent in 2026. In November, the Rod & Reel restaurant opened in Holmes Beach as an extension of the Rod & Reel Pier and restaurant in Anna Maria that was destroyed by the 2024 hurricanes. Owner Oliver Lemke hopes to one day rebuild and reopen the pier and restaurant in Anna Maria. Solo's Pizza closed in late November, Cheesecake Cutie closed in December and the True
JOE HENDRICKS | SUN
Mayor Judy Titsworth gave a speech during the 75th anniversary celebration in December. Value hardware store changed ownership in 2025.
DECEMBER 31, 2025
FUN IN THE SUN
Across 1 Take off 6 Book jacket blurbs 10 Cover one's tracks? 13 African capital with a City of the Dead 14 Step in some Sun Salutations 16 Attorney-__ 17 Boxing titles? 18 Greta of "Spider-Man: Across the Spider-Verse" 19 GPS figs. 21 Echelons 22 Magnetic presence in a classroom? 26 Retired players? 27 Screenwriter's creations 28 Halyard attachments 30 Dose holder 31 Pewter element 34 Setting for some of "Pachinko" Answers to 12-24-25 Crossword Puzzle
35 Participate in story time 37 GPS fig. 38 Catch 40 Stream-ing music? 41 Increases 42 Some social circles? 44 Standard intro course 45 Rice flour pastry 48 Team whose logo is a basketball with a B 49 In some cases, it won't break 50 Surprisingly good event? 52 Conductor Solti who held the record for most Grammys before Beyoncé 53 Slayer player 55 Classic Monopoly token 56 Ticket line? 57 Misses
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58 Worked into a lather 59 Word with chosen or precious Down 1 Prep, as milk for custard 2 Spud 3 B.B. King's given name 4 SIMPLE __ 5 Looks in two different directions at once? 6 City that can be seen from Table Rock 7 Male equivalent of "bint," in Arabic 8 Edu alternative 9 Man known for his many gifts 10 Like many mosques 11 App opener 12 Téa's "Madam Secretary" role 14 Uncouth 15 Skating event 20 Paves the way? 23 Irish novelist Woods 24 Leave folks hanging 25 Big name in brushes 28 Genre originally sponsored by Procter & Gamble 29 Media training? 30 Honey-don't list? 31 Dining room section 32 Unsettled
33 Maslovian considerations 34 Kloss's "Project Runway" predecessor 35 Tropical staple
36 Financial term from the French for "slice" 39 Place to make a connection 43 Apt 46 Lockers in a row?
47 Quarry containers 51 Person to fight with 52 Piece of work? 53 JASON's five, e.g. 54 __ point
22 THE SUN
CLASSIFIEDS
ANNOUNCEMENTS EFFECTIVE DEC 12TH AT THE CENTER, Bridge games on Friday 12:30 PM. Call 314-324-5921 for seating.
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
CONSTRUCTION/ INSURANCE WE SPECALIZE IN: WIND Mitigation forms, 4-POINT forms, DECK safety and evaluation. State Certified since 1990. Call Mike Conley 941-778-2385. Straight Inspection Service. Veteran Owned
EMPLOYMENT PART TIME SHAMPOO ASSISTANT for island salon. Retired professionals welcome. 941-387-9807. MAINTENANCE MAN NEEDED part -time hotel on Anna Maria Island please call: 941-778-1010
FOR SALE GAS POST HOLE DIGGER . New in box. $65 on Island Call 941-518-1216
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. OFFICE ADDRESS: 1878 59th Street W Bradenton, FL 34209
DECEMBER 31, 2025
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.
CLEANING SERVICE TOTAL HOME SERVICES CLEANING: Residential, Commercial, Rentals, VRBO. Professional and Reliable. Call 941-756-4570 or 941-565-3931
Call us today! 941-778-3986
GORILLA DRYWALL REPAIR, LLC. 15+ years of experience. Free Estimates. Let’s solve your Drywall problems together. Call 941-286-0607. CCS DRYWALL REPAIRS We are local. Family owned & operated since 1991. Free Estimates. Licensed/Insured/Bonded. License # SCC131149803 Call 941-713-6531. HURRICANE DAMAGE? I’m an Island resident. Pressure washing, tree work, fence repair, mailbox replacement. Also see ads under “Landscaping & painting. Bill Witaszek 941-307-9315 LOCAL ISLAND RESIDENT 30+ years of experience. Licensed & insured. Professional Services. Carpentry, Painting, Drywall and More. Reliable, Honest, Quality work. FREE estimates- Call Brian 941-220-8300 SOUTHWEST 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
HOME SERVICE HATE TO COOK? Long time Island resident. Can help with cooking, laundry and many things around your house. Many compliments on cooking. References available. Please Call or Text 941685-0045.
LANDSCAPING & LAWN CARE R. GAROFALO’S Interlocking brick pavers, driveways, patios, pool decks. Free estimates. Licensed & Insured. Call Rafael 941-778-4823 or Veronik 941-526-7941 ISLAND RESIDENT. TREE/ BUSH Trimming, removal. Sweeping, blowing, and weeding. Weekly, bi-monthly or monthly schedule. Pressure washing. Call Bill Witaszek 941307-9315 SHELL DRIVEWAYS & LANDSCAPE. Specializing in Old Florida Seashell and Lime rock driveways and scapes. Also River Rock, Sand, Mulch, & Soil. Call Shark Mark 941-301-6067
MOVING & STORAGE MARTIN’S MOVING YOUR Island movers! Offering dependable, competitive rates. No hidden costs. 941-8095777.
PAINTING & WALLCOVERING PAINT! PAINT! AND MORE 28 years of experienced interior/exterior custom painting. Pressure cleaning, drywall repairs and texture finishes. Many Island references. Please call Neil for free estimates. 941-812-0507 “WIZARD OF WALLS” Established 1980 Prompt quality service. Wallpaper installation/ removal. Mary Bell Winegarden 941-794-0455
DONALD PERKINS ABRACADABRA PAINTING LLC fully insured. 30 years experience. Many Island references. Call 941-705-7096 PROFESSIONAL PAINTING SERVICES. Prompt & Reliable. Island Resident. Quality Workmanship. Interior/Exterior. Minor repairs & carpentry. Free estimates. Bill Witaszek 941-307-9315
PEST CONTROL ANNA MARIA PEST CONTROL Call 941-7781630
POOL SERVICES FOUR SEASONS POOL SERVICE AND CHEMICAL SERVICES. Certified Pool Operator. 18 + Years Experience. Residential/commercial. Chemical Service Licensed & Insured. Call Dennis Clark 941-7375657 COLE'S TROPICAL POOL SERVICE Call Cole Bowers for all your pool maintenance needs! Affordable and Dependable!! 941-7131893
PRESSURE WASHING & WINDOWS TOTAL HOME SERVICES CLEANING: Residential, Commercial, Construction, Vacation, VRBO Rentals . Also available Pressure Washing, Roof Cleaning, Paver Sealing and Windows. Call 941-5653931.
REAL ESTATE HOMES & CONDOS FOR SALE Have you been thinking of selling? We NEED properties to List for SALE!!! GULF FRONT, CANAL FRONT, BAY FRONT CONDOS or HOMES ASK for BIG Alan Galletto of Island Real Estate to get it SOLD 941-232-2216
LOOKING FOR A highly motivated real estate broker to buy or sell your next home? Darcie Duncan, Broker Duncan Real Estate a lifelong island resident bringing success to her customers for 30 years. Proven track record brings you results! 941-725-1589
RENTALS: ANNUAL ANNUAL RENTAL CENTRAL HOMES BEACH 3BR/2BA completely remodeled. Walk to beach, school, trolley, shopping. $2595/mo Call 941-7136743
SNOW BIRD SPECIAL: DISCOUNT for multiple months. 2BR/2BA 2nd Floor Condo in HOLMES BEACH. POOL, Tennis/Pickleball, in-unit laundry, WIFI, screened lanai, covered parking. AVAILABLE 2025/26 Season beginning December 2025. Beautiful, bayside seating area. Pool/Beach toys, Bikes included. Call Jack 312835-2323 for more info/ photos. 2BR/2BA W. BRADENTON. December January February March available. Inclusive $3000/mo or $2750. Text 941-962-0971
BEAUTIFUL PERICO BAY Club Condo! 2BR/2BA, Second Floor Unit $3500/ mo seasonally, $2300/mo annually +Security Deposit Please call 941-7781979 for more details.
WINTER WEEKS AVAILABLE 6505 Gulf Dr. Holmes Beach. www.gulfbeachbungalows. Call Lisa 267566-8577
PERICO BAY CLUB3BR/2BA, 1,800 sf unfurnished condo six or twelve months rental. $2,700/mo available beginning in December 2025. Call Bill 412-9250908 for details
ANYTIME TRANSPORTATION to all Airports, Casino, etc. Tampa/St. Pete $85. Sarasota $40. Pets welcome. Very dependable. Reasonable rates. Contact Jeanne. 941-7795095
AMI BRADENTON BEACH 6 month or one year lease. Furnished 2BR/1BA. $1700/mo water, cable TV, internet included. Call/ Text 517-548-1327
RENTALS: SEASONAL & VACATION ANNA MARIA ISLAND CONDOS Large pool, beach access, free WiFi, 1&2 Bedroom $900 to $1200 per week redekercondosonami.com Tim 941-704-7525
TRANSPORTATION
FREE
HOME DELIVERY
TIFFANY PLACE Gulf Front Condo for Rent Incredible views from living room and master bedroom. 2BR/2BA Green Real Estate Call 941-778-0455 SEASONAL RENTAL in PALMA SOLA. 3BR/2BA weekly or monthly rates. Contact Barb Grace 941201-2190
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DECEMBER 31, 2025
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HOME IMPROVEMENT
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BRADENTON BEACH: 2025 year in review FROM PAGE 11 During a quasi-judicial hearing on the application on April 17, City Planner Luis Serna recommended denial of the application and city commissioners denied the paid public parking lot application. They allowed a temporary use permit allowing only Luper, resort guests and employees to use the lot daily until 9 p.m. Luper appealed the decision at a July 19 quasi-judicial hearing. Special Master Marisa Powers later ruled that she, as the special master, did not have jurisdiction to override the city’s ruling.
ATTORNEY RETIRES
City Attorney Ricinda Perry’s 21-year tenure as the Bradenton Beach city attorney came to an end on Sept. 18 when she announced her immediate retirement at a city commission meeting. She made the announcement two days after city commissioners met to evaluate her performance following allegations that she had named Drift-In owner Derek Williams as the source of a Florida Department of Environmental Protection (FDEP) complaint against a neighboring business, the Anna Maria Oyster Bar.
In response to Williams’ public records request, FDEP confirmed that no complaint had been filed, which triggered a Sept. 16 work meeting. At that meeting, the commission granted Perry’s request to allow her more time to respond to the allegations.
NEW CITY ATTORNEY
In October, the mayor and commissioners appointed thenHolmes Beach City Attorney Erica Augello to serve as the Bradenton Beach city attorney on an interim basis for up to six months or until a permanent replacement for selected. At year's end, Augello was no longer serving as the Holmes Beach city attorney and she may be considered as Bradenton Beach's long-term city attorney in 2026.
CHANGES IN OFFICIALS
Ward 4 Commissioner Jan Vosburgh decided in August not to run for another term. Her seat remains open pending applications from interested parties. Fred Bartizal was chosen as the new chairman of the Planning and Zoning Board at the board’s Nov. 5 meeting. Bartizal, owner of the Bridge Tender Inn, succeeded former chair Bill Morrow.
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REAL ESTATE
ANNA MARIA: The Year in Review FROM PAGE 7 EVENTS RETURN
Serving as a replacement for the city-hosted farmers market at City Pier Park, the non-cityrun Anna Maria Community Farmers Market opened at The Center of Anna Maria Island in January and continued each Tuesday through the end of the spring season. After a summer hiatus, the Tuesday market resumed in October at its new location on the grounds of the Roser Church. Many of the annual community events cancelled in 2024 due to the hurricanes returned in 2025, including Bayfest, the "Old Soldiers & Sailors" Veterans Day parade and recognition ceremony, The Anna Maria Island Historical Society's Heritage Day celebration and the recent Holiday of Treasures Open House along Pine Avenue. The city also started hosted monthly City Block Parties at City Pier Park. During each event, Mayor Short said it was another sign of things returning to normal after the 2024 hurricanes. The Center and the Bradenton Area Visitors and Convention Bureau brought several concerts to the area in 2025,
JOE HENDRICKS | SUN
The Anna Maria Post Office's regular location reopened in October. including The Wailers, Kansas and The Outlaws (in Palmetto) and Blue Öyster Cult.
COMINGS AND GOINGS
In January, John Lynch was appointed to fill the city commission seat Jon Crane vacated in late 2024. In November, Lynch, Kathy Morgan-Johnson and Charlie Salem earned additional two-year terms in office after running unopposed in the fall election cycle. In March, Palmetto resident Amber LaRowe was named the new city clerk after the mayor and commission decided to separate the clerk and city treasurer positions. Previous city clerk LeAnne Addy continued serving as treasurer until her departure in mid-November. In September, contracted building official Craig Greene
was dismissed and later replaced by former Anna Maria Building Official David Gilson. In April, David Johnson and Christine Aaron were appointed to the planning and zoning board. Don Buswell-Charkow was also appointed to the board in 2025. In August, planning and zoning board chairman Dave Haddox vacated his advisory board seat because he and his wife, Marsha McAllister, were moving to the Blue Ridge, Georgia area. In November, the planning board selected member Jeff Rodencal to chair the board for the coming year. In October, former Manatee County Sheriff's Office Anna Maria Unit leader Sgt. Russell Schnering retired as the leader of the county's Marine Patrol unit.
24 THE SUN
WWW.AMISUN.COM - CELEBRATING 25 YEARS
DECEMBER 31, 2025