Anna Maria Island Sun December 3, 2025

Into the sunset

Holmes Beach celebrates 75 years

The chartered city of Holmes Beach was incorporated in 1950.

BY JOE HENDRICKS

SUN CORRESPONDENT | jhendricks@amisun.com

HOLMES BEACH – The city will celebrate its 75th anniversary on Friday, Dec. 5 with music, food, shopping and more.

Hosted by the city and co-sponsored by the Bradenton Area Convention and Visitors Bureau and Waste Pro, the anniversary celebration will be held at City Field, 6001 Marina Drive, from 5-9 p.m., next to city hall.

“Holmes Beach Turns 75. Join the celebration. You will not want to miss this event,” according to the city website and Facebook post. “We’re celebrating 75 amazing years of our beautiful Holmes Beach community and you’re invited! Bring your family, friends and Island spirit for a free evening of music, activities, vendors and hometown fun. Enjoy shopping, treats and displays

BIRDIE TEBBETTS

Augello departing as Holmes Beach city attorney

The change is reportedly unrelated to Augello also providing city attorney services to the city of Bradenton Beach.

BY JOE HENDRICKS SUN CORRESPONDENT | jhendricks@amisun.com

HOLMES BEACH – Erica Augello’s tenure as the Holmes Beach city attorney is coming to an end and a familiar face, Randy Mora, is expected to succeed her.

On Tuesday, Dec. 16, Mayor Judy Titsworth will seek city commission authorization to appoint Mora as Augello’s successor, effective Jan. 1. The city charter requires city commission approval to hire a city attorney, city clerk, city treasurer or police chief.

Augello and Mora are both part-

ners in the Clearwater-based Trask Daigneault law firm that requested the change. On Nov. 13, Augello sent Titsworth a memo that formally requested the proposed change she and the mayor previously discussed.

Hurricane recovery assistance meeting next week

BY LESLIE LAKE SUN CORRESPONDENT | llake@amisun.com

CORTEZ - A community meeting for residents to learn about Manatee County’s post-hurricane recovery assistance program, Lasting Manatee, is scheduled for Wednesday, Dec. 10 from 6-7 p.m. at the Old Cortez Fire Station, 4523 123rd St. Court W. An open question and answer session with Manatee County staff is planned. Discussions will center around home repairs, replacements and buyouts, infrastructure repair and mitigation projects, eligibility and how to apply for assistance.

The application process for individual assistance is expected to begin in early 2026. At that time, individuals may submit their

needs for disaster recovery activities on their property.

Lasting Manatee is the county’s program for the allocation of Community Development Block Grant Disaster Recovery (CDBGDR) funds from the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD). In January, Manatee County was identified as a direct recipient of $252,711,000 in CDBG-DR funds to address unmet needs from the 2024 hurricanes Debby, Helene and Milton.

HUD requires that 70% of all CDBG-DR funds benefit low- and moderate-income populations.

Lasting Manatee is currently accepting suggestions for potential projects from county partners, social service organizations, nonprofits,

community groups and business organizations.

“CDBG-DR funds focus on restoring and rebuilding

infrastructure, housing and community facilities. Examples include new construction, reconstruc -

tion and rehabilitation of housing; public facilities and improvements; economic revitalization; hazard mitigation and resilience projects; and public services (limited to 15% of allocation),” according to the Lasting Manatee website.

Interested individuals may sign up for email notifications and check for updates at the Lasting Manatee website (mymanatee.org/lastingmanatee). For accessibility questions or to request a reasonable accommodation to attend the meeting, contact Carmine DeMilo, ADA compliance coordinator at 941-748-4501 ext. 6016 or carmine.demilo@ mymanatee.org at least three business days before the meeting.

ISLAND NEWS

IN BRIEF

JOE HENDRICKS |

SUN

Articulated concrete mats were installed on the Palma Sola Causeway last week.

Concrete mats installed on Palma Sola Causeway

On Nov. 26, paver-like articulated concrete mats were installed along the north side of Manatee Avenue on the Palma Sola Causeway to provide a smoother transition from the roadway to the unpaved parking lot. According to Manatee County Natural Resources Director Charlie Hunsicker, “This is a project of the Manatee Operations Center, FDOT District 1 Maintenance Division, working on State Road 64. They are installing articulated concrete mats to further stabilize and protect the edge of pavement with the road shoulder.”

Commission to review power line, stormwater projects

The Bradenton Beach Commission will review state appropriations requests for burying overhead power lines and for stormwater resiliency projects at the Thursday, Dec. 4 meeting at 6 p.m. Also on the agenda are the renewal of the lease and concessionaire agreement between the city and We’re Back Inc. and filling the commission vacancy for Ward 4. Under attorney business is the review of a special use agreement for the property at 106 23rd St. N. and a review of a request for proposals for a city planner. The consent agenda includes the approval of the cancellation of the Jan. 1, 2026 commission meeting, approval to extend the noise ordinance on New Years Eve to 1 a.m. on Bridge Street, approval of an invoice from M.T. Causley LLC for $7,507.50, approval of invoices from the law office of Robert K. Lincoln PA for $375, $3,600 and $10,050, and approval of a quote from Conexwest for a shipping container to be used by the police department for evidence storage for $4,079. The meeting will be in the Katie Pierola Commission Chambers, 107 Gulf Drive N.

Scan this code with your smartphone to go there.

‘Captain Anthony’ hopes to land paid parking lot

Two paid parking lots already operate close to the proposed paid parking lot.

BY JOE HENDRICKS SUN CORRESPONDENT | jhendricks@amisun.com

ANNA MARIA – Pending city commission approval, Anthony and Joann Manali plan to operate a 26-space paid parking lot on their commerciallyzoned property at 105 Spring Ave.

The couple owns and operates Captain Anthony’s Seafood Market at 107 Spring Ave. on a commerciallyzoned property that also contains their home.

Two city commission-approved paid parking lots already operate within a block or two of the Manali’s proposed paid parking lot.

On Nov. 19, Anna Maria Planning and Zoning Board (P&Z) members Jeff Rodencal, Christine Aaron, Don Buswell-Charkow and David Johnson unanimously voted in favor of recommending future city commission approval of a variance request pertaining to the city’s fence and buffering regulations.

In a second and related action, the planning board members recommend city commission approval of the site plan submitted for the proposed paid parking lot.

The Nov. 19 meeting packet included background information provided by City Planner Ashley Austin.

“The subject property, located at 105 Spring Ave., is comprised of two platted lots which have been used for Sandbar restaurant parking since as

early as 2006. A site plan request has been submitted to establish a public commercial parking lot as the primary use of the property. As a part of the site plan request, a 6-foot-tall wood fence and 5-foot-wide landscape buffer are required along the northeast (landward side) and southeast (rear) property lines where the property abuts residential uses,” according to the background information.

“The applicant, Monica Simpson, on behalf of the property owner, Anthony Manali, is requesting a variance to the buffer requirements which would allow the property owners to maintain an existing 4-foot vinyl fence along the landward side of the property and eliminate the fence requirement entirely along the rear of the property. Alternatively, if a fence is required, the applicant requests a 4-foot vinyl fence along the northeast and southeast property lines,” according to the background information provided.

When addressing the board, Anthony Manali said they previously leased their two unpaved parking lots to the Sandbar restaurant but

that lease expired a couple years ago and they now wish to operate a paid parking lot there themselves. The two adjacent lots are separated by some landscape buffering.

Regarding the variance request, the planning board members support allowing the Manalis to leave in place an existing 4-foot-high vinyl fence that stands between the seafood market building and the proposed parking lot. Additional landscape buffering will be installed between the existing fence and the parking area and a 6-foot-high vinyl fence will be required along the residential section of Spring Lane that runs parallel to Spring Avenue.

As part of the site plan approval process, the Manalis agreed to install a split-rail, corral-style fence along the portion of Spring Lane that’s closest to the Gulf of Mexico and runs perpendicular to Spring Avenue.

When asked about the intended parking rate, Anthony Manali said they would charge the “market rate” and did not provide a specific hourly or daily rate.

Termination notice addresses city treasurer’s departure

LeAnne Addy’s termination and successor have not yet been discussed at a city commission meeting.

BY JOE HENDRICKS SUN CORRESPONDENT | jhendricks@amisun.com

ANNA MARIA – On Nov. 17, Mayor Mark Short emailed a notice of termination of employment to LeAnne Addy, who was serving as city treasurer at the time.

“As you are aware, the city of Anna Maria is an ‘at-will’ employer, and as such, the city retains the right to terminate employment at any time

and for any or no reason. It has been concluded that your services as city treasurer are no longer required,” the termination notice says.

“The decision has been made to terminate your employment with the city as of today, November 17, 2025. You will be paid through November 17, 2025, as that will be your last day of employment with the city. Alternatively, the city is willing to offer you the opportunity to sign a voluntary resignation agreement and waiver,” the termination notice says.

The Sun requested the city to provide any response from Addy, but no response was provided. Addy declined comment.

Solo’s Pizza says farewell

Someone once said, “All good things must come to an end.” I’m not quite sure I agree with that. I think the spirit of a good thing can last forever in our hearts and memories.

Thank you all for being my customers, thank you for being my friends, and thank you to my employees. Thank you, Brent Lahr — you worked so hard when I needed it most. I had a dream a long time ago of owning a little sports pub on an island, and that dream came true. Sometimes it amazes me how it came to be and lasted 23 years, but there were prayers involved.

A customer once told me that coming to Solo’s reminded him of the TV show “Cheers.” Another said that having dinner at Solo’s felt like having someone serve you in your living room – and that is exactly what I was shooting for. The kind of hospitality that’s real – a gift from my mom, I think.

Years ago, I decided to divide my life into four quarters: The first

was for growing, the second for learning, the third for earning and the fourth for enjoying and appreciating life a little more while I still can.

I am entering my fourth quarter now, and I think it’s time for a new chapter to begin.

Once again, thank you all for the amazing years. There sure are a lot of good memories I will carry with me forever. I will truly miss Solo’s Pizza.

Solo’s Pizza owner 2003-2026

Author gives thanks

On Saturday, Nov. 22, I had the distinct pleasure of speaking at the Manatee County Island Branch Library regarding my two “Tales

From the Island” books and I must thank some people.

First, I must thank Brigitte Kubin of Three Island Monkeys on Longboat Key. She talked me into it and arranged everything.

Next, I want to thank the library for allowing us the time for the talk – and if you haven’t been to

a library in a while, you should go. I met some amazing people and thank you all for coming and making me feel so special. The comments and feedback were much appreciated and well received.

Lastly, to my beautiful wife, Joan, love of my life and muse, my son, Adam, who has been so very

supportive from the start and to The Sun and Joe Hendricks, whose articles and encouragement keep us in touch with life on Anna Maria Island. The books have many more acknowledgments, so enjoy and thank you all.

Alan Cross Bradenton

ANNA MARIA

10005 GULF DRIVE

FOR INFORMATION, CALL 941-708-6130

Visit www.cityofannamaria. com or contact city hall for more information.

Thursday, Dec. 11, 1 p.m., City Commission meeting

EVENTS

THURSDAY, DEC. 4

Florida Author Book Club, Tingley Memorial Library, 111 Second St. N., Bradenton Beach, 10:30 a.m.

AMI Chamber breakfast, Wicked Cantina, 101 Seventh St. N., Bradenton Beach. 8-9:30 a.m.

SATURDAY, DEC. 6

Lester Family Fun Day, The Center of Anna Maria Island, 407 Magnolia Ave., Anna Maria, 10:30 a.m. to 2 p.m. Music on the Porch, Florida Maritime Museum, 4415 119th St. W., Cortez, 2-4 p.m.

TUESDAY, DEC. 9

Anna Maria Community Farmers Market, Roser Church, 512 Pine Ave., Anna Maria, 9 a.m. to 2 p.m.

BRADENTON BEACH

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

Visit www.cityofbradentonbeach.com or contact city hall for more information.

Thursday, Dec. 4, 6 p.m., City Commission meeting

Roser Guild Christmas Tea and Birthday Celebration, 512 Pine Ave., Fellowship Hall. All are welcome. Please bring a holiday treat to share, 1 p.m.

WEDNESDAY, DEC. 10

Off Stage Ladies Luncheon, Holiday Boutique and Secret Santa Exchange, Scarpino’s Classic Italian, 6152 14th St. W. Bradenton, 11:45 a.m. To join Off Stage Ladies, call Roe Duncan at 941-932-2798.

Blue Oyster Cult, The Center of Anna Maria Island, 407 Magnolia Ave., Anna Maria, 7 p.m.

SATURDAY, DEC. 13

Christmas in Cortez, Florida Maritime Museum, 4415 119th St. W., Cortez. Noon to 3 p.m. AMI Privateers Christmas Parade, Coquina Beach to City Pier Park, 10 a.m.

HOLMES BEACH

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

Visit www.holmesbeachfl.org or contact city hall for more information.

Wednesday, Dec. 3, 10 a.m., Parks & Beautification Committee meeting

Wednesday, Dec. 3, 3:30 p.m., Planning Commission meeting

Wednesday, Dec. 10, 9 a.m. Clean Water Ad Hoc Committee meeting

THURSDAY, DEC. 18 –SUNDAY, DEC. 21

Palma Sola Botanical Park’s Winter Nights Under the Lights, 9800 17th Ave. N.W., Bradenton, 6 -9 p.m.

NIGHTLY

Christmas in the Garden, “A Celebration of Lights & Music,” through Dec. 31 with special musical presentations and refreshments on Dec. 4, Dec. 9, Dec. 11, Dec. 15, Dec. 16, Dec. 19 and Dec. 22 at 6 p.m. and a New Year’s Eve celebration on Dec. 31 from 4:306:30 p.m. featuring appetizers and a musical performance by John Rinell. Longboat Island Chapel, 6200 Gulf of Mexico Drive, Longboat Key, 5-9 p.m., free.

Chamber to light Christmas tree on Saturday

The Anna Maria Island Chamber of Commerce will host its annual Christmas Tree Lighting and Holmes Beach Holiday Open House on Saturday, Dec. 6 from 5-8 p.m. with the tree lighting ceremony at 6 p.m. The holiday event will take place in the parking lot near

the Chamber’s office at 5313 Gulf Drive in Holmes Beach. The CrossPointe Fellowship Band will perform holiday songs, the Anna Maria Island Privateers will host Santa’s Christmas sleigh and the nearby businesses will stay open during the holiday celebration.

Artists’ Guild to host December Market Night

The Artists’ Guild of Anna Maria Island will host its Holiday Market Night celebration on Friday, Dec. 5 from 5-7 p.m. at the Artists’ Guild gallery at 5414 Marina Drive in The Island Shopping Center in Holmes Beach. Christmas ornaments and artist-made, one-of-a-kind gifts will include paintings, prints, jewelry, mosaics, sculptures, book art, photography and more, according to the Guild. Activities will include a ‘Paint Around,’ where artists pass around a painting, adding to the previous artists' work, and a raffle will be held to select the winner of the painting. Light refreshments will be available and Guild member artists will be on hand displaying and discussing their work.

Toys for Tots collecting on AMI

The city of Bradenton Beach is partnering with the U.S. Marine Corps Toys for Tots program to brighten the holidays for disadvantaged local kids. New, unwrapped toys may be dropped off through Thursday, Dec. 11 at:

• Bradenton Beach Police Department, 403 Highland Ave.

• Bradenton Beach City Hall, 107 Gulf Drive N.

• Tingley Memorial Library, 111 Second St. N.

Additional toy donation locations throughout Manatee County can be found online at www.toysfortots. org. Suggested items for teens and pre-teens include sporting equipment/ bags/balls, books, backpacks, cosmetics, purses, watch/wallet gift sets, bath gift sets, board games, radio control cars/trucks, hand-held electronics, skateboards, bicycles, curling irons, hair straighteners and hair dryers. Toys for Tots does not accept realistic looking weapons or food. If donated, such items will not be distributed.

Enjoy Lester Family Fun Day on Saturday

BY JOE HENDRICKS SUN CORRESPONDENT | jhendricks@amisun.com

ANNA MARIA – The Center of Anna Maria Island’s annual Lester Family Fun Day is happening on Saturday, Dec. 6.

Admission is free for the familyfriendly event that starts at 10:30 a.m. and concludes at 2 p.m. with the 50/50 raffle Helicopter Golf Ball Drop.

Lester Family Fun Day started more than 20 years ago and was sponsored by longtime seasonal Holmes Beach residents Chuck and Joann “Joey” Lester. Joey Lester continued the sponsorship after her husband’s death.

“This beloved annual celebration offers old-fashioned fun at oldfashioned prices and activities for all ages – especially the young and the young at heart,” according to The Center press release.

The activities and entertainment include pony rides and inflatables, DJ Freeze spinning tunes, a live performance by the Manatee High School Drum Line, crafts and cookie decorating for kids and a noon visit from Santa, who will arrive bearing small gifts for each youngster who visits him.

The food available for purchase will include burgers from Duffy’s Tavern, hots dogs from the Anna Maria Oyster Bar and ice cream from Small Town Creamery.

At 2 p.m., a helicopter will hover over The Center athletic fields and drop a multitude of numbered golf balls. The ball that lands closest to the flag wins a share of the 50/50

raffle proceeds. The cost is $50 per ball or three balls for $100. Golf balls can be purchased at The Center’s front desk, 407 Magnolia Ave., by calling 941-778-1908 or online at www.centerami.org/events. All Lester Family Fun Day proceeds will benefit The Center’s community programs, supporting wellness, recreation and enrichment for all ages.

HENDRICKS | SUN

Paid parking lot opens

A new paid parking lot is now open and operational at 9806 Gulf Drive at the corner of Gulf Drive and Magnolia Avenue. The lot is across the street from Ginny’s and Jane E’s Café and across the street from a previously opened paid parking lot at 9902 Gulf Drive. Approved by Anna Maria city commissioners in September, the new paid parking lot is owned by Jerry Robert Hynton’s JRHAMI LLC and operated and maintained by Josh LaRose’s Easy Parking Group.

John and Amanda Horne, founders of Oysters Rock Hospitality, parent company of the Anna Maria Oyster Bar in Bradenton Beach, have been awarded the NAACP Manatee Community Service Award for their leadership and dedication to education through the Dive Into Reading program. From left are Peggy Delegato, the Unsung Hero Award recipient; Leon Russell, National Chairman of the NAACP; Amanda Horne; John Horne; and George Woodie, of Westside Funeral Home, winner of the Outstanding Business Award. The awards were presented at the 2025 Freedom Fund Banquet on Nov. 8 at the Manatee Performing Arts Center in Bradenton.

OUTDOORS

Winter: Slow and low

hen winter arrives with cold winds and plunging water temperatures, it’s time to change your angling strategies. While winter fishing can be challenging, there are opportunities for some excellent action if you use your senses and think like a fish. While there are no “magic bullets,” awareness and persistence really pays dividends when the thermometer begins to plunge.

The most popular species (snook, redfish and trout) will often concentrate in areas where the surrounding waters are more moderate. Snook are most

sensitive to the changing water temperature and will migrate to rivers, canals and protected channels. Explore areas where dark bottom absorbs the heat of the sun and warms the surrounding water. Shallow bays and bayous that heat up quickly on sunny days and flush warm water on late afternoon outgoing tides can be particularly productive. Even the seawalls that line residential areas can warm up the water and attract fish on cold days. It doesn’t take much of a temperature difference to attract fish. You’ll know these areas because they’ll feel warm to you as well as to fish. When fishing a particular area, pay attention to the exposure that receives the most sun during the day. Areas protected from a cold north wind will be more desirable to fish. The wind moves the water, keeping it from absorbing the sun’s rays and warming. A

combination of sun exposure, depth and the color of the bottom will all figure into the warm water equation.

When the weather prevents the sun from warming the water, look for deeper pockets to harbor fish. The deeper areas warm more slowly, but they also cool more slowly. Channels, holes under big boats in canals, deep pot holes on the flats and boat basins are all potential refuges for fish during cold weather. Rivers and creeks are also good sanctuaries depending on the conditions. While many local species are negatively affected by the cold water, many like trout and redfish have a high tolerance. Others actually thrive on it. The best example is the sheepshead. These fish, while shunned by some anglers, are hard fighting, challenging to hook and excellent to eat. Target sheepshead around

barnacles. One way to attract sheepshead is to scrape barnacles from pilings on an outgoing or incoming tide. A small live shrimp is hard for them to turn down; fiddler crabs are also prime baits. A small, stout and sharp hook is necessary for their tough mouths and you have to be quick setting the hook. It’s often said that you need to set the hook a split second

Once you find the ideal conditions, remember to slow your presentation. Lures and bait fished slowly, and close to the bottom, (low and slow) will generally draw more strikes than a quick retrieve. Use your senses, experiment and be persistent, and you can experience some very good fishing during our cooler winter months.

South Andros, Bahamas: Bonefish heaven

CAPT. RICK GRASSETT

I hosted a group of friends and clients at Mars Bay Bonefish Lodge in South Andros, Bahamas on my annual trip there Nov. 8-15. Rick Happle, of St. Petersburg, and I drove from Sarasota to Fort Lauderdale Executive Airport and met up with other group members John, DJ, Dave Proctor and Ian Schaad, of New York, Joe Nourigat, of Virginia, Tracy Baker and Peter Chauncey, of North Carolina, and Cullen Baker, of Chicago. We traveled to Congotown, South Andros on Makers Air.

Conditions were good most days, although a rare early season cold front made it to the Bahamas and gave us challenging conditions one of the days. We waded vast sand flats and also fished from flats skiffs for everything from large cruising or tailing, single and double bonefish to large schools of fish. There were numerous bonefish in the 4- to 7-pound class and larger as well as a couple of double-digit fish caught and released. John and I fished together one day and had a great day with

numerous medium sized fish, and John caught the fish of the day, an estimated 11-pounder! There were also a couple of other double digit fish caught and released by Joe and Tracy, a great fishery! Top producing flies during the week were Fitz flies, Ververka’s Mantis Shrimp, Gotchas and Gotcha variations.

Bill Howard, the resident owner/ operator, does a great job making

things run smoothly at the lodge. We dined on a variety of excellent authentic Bahamian dishes including fresh fish, lobster and conch. One of the best things about Mars Bay Lodge, the southernmost lodge on South Andros, is fishing the vast sand flats and scattered mangrove keys to the south. Being the southernmost lodge on South Andros also means about a 10-mile shorter boat run each way and

more fishing. South Andros has got to be one of the most beautiful places to target bonefish on the planet!

This trip, as well as my Montana trip, are annual trips, so if you have an interest in any future trips, contact me or go to the Destination Trips page of my website, http://www.snookfinaddict.com/

REAL ESTATE

Are you planning on outliving your mortgage?

In the olden days right after World War II when houses were coming out of the ground like spring flowers, homebuy ers were typically in their 20s and fully intended to pay off their mortgages. Now, however, the median age of buyers has reached an all-time high of 40 and many will not likely outlive their mortgage.

The White House is working on a plan to introduce a 50-year mortgage to make it easier for Americans to afford homeownership. It’s true that a 50-year mortgage would likely make it easier for buyers to qualify for a home loan. In these high interest, low inventory times, it’s something that will have a lot of appeal to buyers who can’t find any other way to afford a home.

Based on a $400,000 purchase with 20% down and a 6.22% mortgage rate, Freddie Mac estimates the difference between a 30-year mortgage and a 50year mortgage is about $200 a month.

Castles in the Sand

LOUISE BOLGER

This lower monthly payment will qualify many buyers who otherwise wouldn’t qualify for a loan to finally get into their own home.

It’s one of those “looks great on paper” theories, but is full of danger and buyers who end up being financially overextended. Home mortgages are generally front-loaded with interest at the beginning of the loan term so building equity in the early years of ownership is difficult. Since 50-year mortgages will likely be offered at a higher interest to offset the credit risk to the lender, this will make building equity almost impossible. For buyers who are still in their 20s

and plan on living in a home for a long time, the case can be made that this is a good choice. But as stated, buyers are older now, jobs may not be forever, and marriages and partnerships come with a high rate of breakups. Nevertheless, a 50-year mortgage could be just the right option for buyers who are very confident in their life choices and are able to live conservatively to overcome future bumps in the road.

Last week, we published the October sales statistics, which were all positive numbers compared to last year. However, the numbers were skewed because of the negative effect of the hurricanes in 2024.

However, the national sales also rose to an eight-month high in October, helped by the small decline in interest rates. The national median existing home price in October rose to $415,200, a 2.1% increase from a year earlier, according to the National Association of Realtors

(NAR). As a comparison, Manatee County’s median single-family home sale price this year was $481,000, an increase of 0.2% from last year. The NAR also reports that prices are falling in some southern and western markets, giving buyers more of a negotiating edge. In spite of buyers having an increased level of comfort in the market, Redfin reports that there are more than a half-million more sellers than buyers in the national housing market in October. This is the biggest gap on record going back to 2013.

Many old homes in the Northeast have a “mortgage button” embedded in the newel post of their stairway. The tradition is that when the mortgage is fully paid, the wooden button is replaced with an ivory one so everyone coming into the home knows the home is mortgage free. A nice tradition that unfortunately we won’t be seeing much of in decades to come.

AUGELLO: Departing as Holmes Beach city attorney

“It is with great sadness that I must inform you that due to the business needs of my firm, I will no longer be able to serve as the city of Holmes Beach’s appointed city attorney. That being said, I will not be stepping away from the city entirely and will continue to serve as the city’s primary attorney for all code enforcement matters and wherever else I may be needed,” Augello stated in her memo.

“Though I will no longer be the city’s appointed city attorney, I hope that you will appoint and welcome my esteemed partner, Randy Mora, into that role. You, most of the commission, and city staff are well acquainted with Mr. Mora and I have no doubt that he will serve the city well in this role,” Augello wrote.

In October, the Bradenton Beach Commission appointed Augello to serve as that city's interim city attorney for at least the next six months due to Ricinda Perry’s sudden retirement in September.

When speaking to The Sun on Nov. 21, Augello was asked if the Bradenton Beach assignment played a role in her pending departure as Holmes Beach’s city attorney.

“No, absolutely not. It has everything to do with availability and conflicting schedules with some of our other clients in Pinellas County – specifically with the city of Pinellas Park,” Augello said.

“That is the only reason and that’s why I’m staying as code enforcement attorney in Holmes Beach.

I truly enjoy serving that community but we are a team at Trask Daigneault and this is something I needed to do for my team. I’ve truly enjoyed my time sitting at the dais and serving the Holmes Beach community,” Augello said.

“The quality of service is not going to go down. The city is familiar with Randy. He was an instrumental part of the team that helped with the (Bert) Harris Act cases. He was also an integral part in successfully bringing the treehouse case to a close for the city. Our firm will continue to serve

way we can,” Augello said. Titsworth expressed a similar sentiment when contacted by The Sun on Nov. 20 and asked if Augello’s departure was related to her new Bradenton Beach assignment.

“Absolutely not. I was perfectly fine with her representing both cities and I think she’ll be great for Bradenton Beach,” Titsworth said.

Regarding the conversations that occurred before Augello formally requested the attorney change in her memo, Titsworth

said, “I said we’d OK with Randy. He’s been helping the city for a long time. He’s well known by the city. He was part of the treehouse lawsuit. He also does our ethics training, so most of the commissioners already know him.”

Regarding Augello’s tenure as city attorney, Titsworth said, “She has been a tremendous asset to us and she’ll be a tremendous asset for the city of Bradenton Beach. I wish her well and we’ll still see her representing us at special magistrate hearings.”

Titsworth will present Mora’s appointment to city commissioners on Dec. 16 and Augello and Mora are both expected to attend the commission’s last meeting of 2025.

Augello began her tenure as Holmes Beach city attorney on Jan. 1, 2022, succeeding Patricia Petruff in the role. At the time, Augello already served as the city’s code compliance attorney.

MORA’S BACKGROUND

According to the updated résumé that Mora provided to

the city and The Sun on Nov. 20, Mora served as the Indian Rocks Beach city attorney for the past 10 years – an assignment he ended in June when he chose not to renew his contract with the city.

In recent years, Mora assisted the Indian Rocks Beach city commission with the adoption of an occupancy-based short-term vacation rental ordinance that prompted multiple lawsuits filed by vacation rental owners.

Mora served as the Pinellas Park city attorney from January of this year until November. He previously served as the Belleair Beach city attorney for three years and the Kenneth City town attorney for nearly eight years. He’s served as the town of Indian Shores’ special magistrate since 2020.

RATE INCREASE

In her Nov. 13 memo to Titsworth, Augello also proposed increasing the hourly rate for city attorney services from $200 to $285 per hour.

"This rate not only meets with the current market but also reflects the value of the services that the city is receiving from the firm,” Augello stated in her memo.

Manatee Avenue bridge work beginning

Construction on the Manatee Avenue Water Main Intracoastal Crossing project will start early this month, according to a notice of construction dated Nov. 24.

“Work will begin with 24/7, around-the-clock drilling operations that are expected to continue through the rest of the month up to the holidays. These activities will involve the eastern and western ends of the project as the contractor performs underwater installation of the new water main pipe. The drilling part of the installation process requires the contractor to work 24 hours in an effort to prevent the installation route from closing or becoming obstructed. This will continue until the new pipe is in place under the Intracoastal Waterway.”

WHAT TO EXPECT:

• Increased construction traffic on Manatee Avenue West and transporting/ staging of pipes/construction materials and equipment;

• Intermittent/temporary lane closures and flagging operations on eastbound and westbound Manatee Avenue West to accommodate construction deliveries;

• Sounds of pumps, heavy equipment/diesel engines, back-up alarms, and work crew verbal communications; and

• Stationary lighting at work sites; light beams from construction equipment/ vehicle headlights.

“Motorists are asked to remain mindful of construction vehicles, crews and activities when traveling in and near the work zone,” according to the notice.

BEACH BEAT

HOLMES BEACH

Nov. 22, 11 a.m., 3000 block Avenue E. Burglary. An employee of a vacation rental company walked into a vacant unit and found an unidentified man in the property, according to a police report. A description of the man was given to police and he was found a short time later attempting to hide from police at Manatee Beach. The owner of the rental property initially told police that they did not want to press charges and wanted the man trespassed from the property. The man was released. Upon further investigation, it appeared that he had stayed there overnight, requiring cleaning of the unit, and the owner then asked to press charges. The following day police were dispatched to a call on a private road behind Island Beach Club regarding a man screaming to himself. Officers recognized the man from the prior incident and he was taken into custody and charged with burglary, trespassing and loitering.

City baseball field being restored

The field restorations are part of the city’s ongoing hurricane recovery efforts.

BY JOE HENDRICKS SUN CORRESPONDENT | jhendricks@amisun.com

HOLMES BEACH – The city-owned Birdie Tebbetts Field has been re-sodded and is being restored and enhanced.

Once a regulation-size field, the new field is built to Little League dimensions, has new sod, new layers of clay on the base paths and the pitching mound, a new pitcher’s rubber, a new home plate and new bases.

The restoration of the field is another step in the city’s ongoing hurricane recovery efforts that continue more than a year after Hurricanes Helene and Milton struck Anna Maria Island in 2024.

On Nov. 18, Development Services Director Chad Minor and Public Works Department Project Manager Matt Gorman briefly discussed the field restoration with the mayor and city commissioners. Minor said the clay had been ordered and was expected to arrive soon. Gorman said base paths

would get about 2 inches of new clay and the elevated pitching mounds would get 6-8 inches of new clay.

Gorman said the backstop fence would be adjusted slightly to correct the field dimensions and some fence repairs would be needed as well. He said he hoped to have the restorations fully completed by Dec. 5.

“All the kids here who play baseball here are very grateful for this,” Commissioner Jessica Patel said.

She noted some of the teams that play at the county-owned G.T. Bray Park in west Bradenton are looking for

Key Royale Golf Club scoreboard

NOV. 17 - MODIFIED STABLEFORD

First Place - Terry Schaefer, +8 Second Place - Doug Dorsey and Jeff Jump tied, +6

Third Place - Mike Gillie, +4

NOV. 18 - LOW NET SCORE

Flight A

First Place - Margarit Layh, 29 Second Place - Linda Dorsey, 31 Third Place - Helen Pollock, 33 Flight B

First Place - Susan Van Orsdel and Terry Westby tied, 32 Second Place - Peggi Clauhs and Marty Clark tied, 33

Margarit Layh chipped-in on Holes #1 and #4

NOV. 20 - SCRAMBLE

First Place Team - Leigh Brattain, Dale Hudson, Gary Risner and Tom Solosky, 28, 4 under par

Second Place Teams - Larry Brattain, Dave DuVernay, Jeff Jump and Steve Martins tied the teams of Leo Burke, Larry Davis, Jerry Martinek and Warren Stevens and Julia Fay, Jim Hitchen, Jack Lowry and Blake Ress, 29, 3 under par

NOV. 24 - MODIFIED STABLEFORD

First Place - Nelson Eagle, +4

Second Place - Brian Comer and Ron Vandeman tied, +3

Third Place - Doug Kristensen, +2

NOV. 25 - LOW NET SCORE

Flight A

First Place - Brenda Solleveld, 31

Second Place - Leigh Bratain, 35

Flight B

First Place - Jana Samuels and Mary Wilkie tied, 31

additional fields to play and practice on.

“Keep in mind it’s not lit,” Mayor Judy Titsworth said.

“This is the type of field I would have loved to play on when I was kid,” Gorman said.

“If you build it, they will come,” Titsworth said in reference to the classic “Field of Dreams” baseball movie starring Kevin Costner.

The field is named after former Major League Baseball player, manager and scout George “Birdie” Tebbetts. From 1936-52, Tebbetts was

catcher for the Detroit Tigers, Boston Red Sox and Cleveland Indians. He then spent 11 years as a manager for the Cincinnati Reds, Milwaukee Braves and Cleveland Indians. In 1956, while managing the Reds, Tebbetts was named Manager of the Year by the Baseball Writers’ Association of America. He spent 28 years as a Major League scout. He moved to Anna Maria Island in the early 1960s and passed away in Bradenton in 1999 at age 86.

Second Place - Sharon Tarras, 35

Sofran, Lee pitch to win

HOLMES BEACH: Celebrates 75 years

FROM PAGE 1

from your favorite Island businesses and organizations. A variety of delicious food and beverages will be available for purchase from local favorites.”

Jah Movement and Trevor Bystrom will perform the evening’s live music and kids’ activities will include a bounce house and face painting.

Participating businesses and organizations include AMI Health & Fitness, Anna Maria Island Coffee Shack, the Anna Maria Island Historical Society, Anna Maria Island Turtle Watch & Shorebird Monitoring, Boho Beach Escape, Distractions on The Island, Edibles N’ More, the Freckled Fin Irish Pub, Jimmy CakeZ, Keep Manatee Beautiful, Kona Ice of N. Sarasota, Marquis Management, Oliviea Salt Scrubs, Pizzano’s Pizza, Pizza Social, Rodney’s Jamaican Grill, SeaBreeze Vacation, Skinny’s, Waste Pro, West Coast Surf Shop, the West Manatee Fire & Rescue District, World Famous Eggrolls, Aloha Party Experts, AMB Photography, Beckers Car Shows and more.

To help support local families facing food shortages, please consider bringing dry and non-perishable food donations to assist the Anna Maria-based Roser

Come celebrate our city’s history, our neighbors and the Island community we love.”

City of Holmes Beach website

Food Pantry’s efforts to support community members in need during the holiday season.

“Come celebrate our city’s history, our neighbors and the Island community we love. Here’s to 75 years of Holmes Beach – and many more ahead,” according to the city’s message.

CITY HISTORY

According to the history provided at the city website, “Sam and Annie Cobb first homesteaded 160 acres on Anna Maria Island in 1896 in the area now called Holmes

Beach. John R. Jones and Jose Casanas soon joined the Cobbs. Jones piloted boats running between Tampa and Cuba. Casanas relocated from the Canary Islands in search of mullet fishing grounds.

“The city derives its name from Jack Holmes, a developer who arrived on the Island after World War II and created a 600-acre community. When the city was incorporated in 1950, Halsey T. Tichenor served as its first mayor,” according to the website.

FUN IN THE SUN

CLASSIFIEDS

COMMERCIAL SALES, RENT & LEASE

HAVE YOU BEEN thinking of selling? We NEED properties to List for SALE!!! Duplexes, multi family, small resorts? Call BIG Alan Galletto of Island Real Estate to get it SOLD 941-232-2216

CLEANING SERVICE

TOTAL HOME SERVICES CLEANING: Residential, Commercial, Rentals, VRBO. Professional and Reliable. Call 941-756-4570 or 941-565-3931

CONSTRUCTION/ INSURANCE

WE SPECALIZE IN: WIND

Mitigation forms, 4-POINT forms, DECK safety and evaluation. State Certified since 1990. Call Mike Conley 941-778-2385. Straight Inspection Service. Veteran Owned

EMPLOYMENT

NOW HIRING: THE WHITE EGRET & THE EGRET'S NEST We are seeking creative individuals to fill both part time and full time positions at our boutiques! Flexible days but some weekend availability required. Please inquire in person, drop off a resume or call 941-778-3782 for an interview appointment.

CHILDREN, YOUTH AND FAMILY LEADER - Part Time Roser Church. Create and lead programming for our growing congregation. Email: family@ roserchurch.com for more information.

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

GET’R DONE DRYWALL, INC Specializing in Remodels & Repairs. Island Resident for 20+ years. Call Neil. Cell 941-9621194

JSAN CORPORATION

Renovations Construction & Handyman Services 941-243-0995 Lic# CRC1332505 jsancorporation@gmail. com Flooring, Drywall, Painting, Repairs, Kitchen and Bathrooms, Trim & Doors Free Estimates. Credit Cards Accepted.

GORILLA DRYWALL REPAIR, LLC. 15+ years of experience. Free Estimates. Let’s solve your Drywall problems together. Call 941-286-0607.

CCS DRYWALL REPAIRS

We are local. Family owned & operated since 1991. Free Estimates. Licensed/Insured/Bonded. License # SCC131149803 Call 941-713-6531.

HURRICANE DAMAGE?

I’m an Island resident. Pressure washing, tree work, fence repair, mailbox replacement. Also see ads under “Landscaping & painting. Bill Witaszek 941-307-9315

LOCAL ISLAND

RESIDENT 30+ years of experience. Licensed & insured. Professional Services. Carpentry, Painting, Drywall and More. Reliable, Honest, Quality work. FREE estimates- Call Brian 941-220-8300

HOME 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

FOR SALE - PERICO BAY CLUB New Price for 2BR/2BA villa with Water View!

2 CAR GARAGE, open floor plan & high ceilings! $374,400 Call Erin Leathem at The Anna Maria Sales Team at Island Real Estate 941448-5616

RENTALS: ANNUAL

ANNUAL RENTAL CENTRAL HOMES BEACH 3BR/2BA completely remodeled. Walk to beach, school, trolley, shopping. $2595/mo Call 941-7136743

BEAUTIFUL PERICO BAY Club Condo! 2BR/2BA, Second Floor Unit $3500/ mo seasonally, $2300/mo annually +Security Deposit Please call 941-7781979 for more details.

SUNNY SHORES- CORTEZ 3BR/2BA Home, new kitchen & baths, garage, large yard. $2,850/mo includes lawn. Contact Fran Maxon Real Estate for details 941-778-2307.

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

RENTALS: SEASONAL & VACATION

ANNA MARIA ISLAND CONDOS Large pool, beach access, free WiFi, 1&2 Bedroom $900 to $1200 per week redekercondosonami.com Tim 941-704-7525

TIFFANY PLACE Gulf Front Condo for Rent Incredible views from living room and master bedroom. 2BR/2BA Green Real Estate Call 941-778-0455

SEASONAL RENTAL in PALMA SOLA. 3BR/2BA weekly or monthly rates. Contact Barb Grace 941201-2190

SNOW BIRD SPECIAL: DISCOUNT for multiple months. 2BR/2BA 2nd Floor Condo in HOLMES BEACH. POOL, Tennis/Pickleball, in-unit laundry, WIFI, screened lanai, covered parking. AVAILABLE 2025/26 Season beginning December 2025. Beautiful, bayside seating area. Pool/Beach toys, Bikes included. Call Jack 312835-2323 for more info/ photos.

WINTER APARTMENT 1BR/1BA a few houses from the Gulf. 4-6 months rental. $3500/month. Call 941-778-4499

2BR/2BA W. BRADENTON. December January February March available. Inclusive $3000/mo or $2750. Text 941-962-0971

RENTALS: SEASONAL & VACATION

WINTER WEEKS AVAIL-

ABLE 6505 Gulf Dr. Holmes Beach. www. gulfbeachbungalows. Call Lisa 267-566-8577

ROOM FOR RENT

NEAR ALDI on Manatee Ave. No smoking, drugs or alcoholic. Kitchen Laundry privileges. $275 weekly $1100 monthly $500 deposit. Call Tom 941-462-6211

TRANSPORTATION

ANYTIME TRANSPORTATION to all Airports, Casino, etc. Tampa/ St. Pete $85. Sarasota $40. Pets welcome. Very dependable. Reasonable rates. Contact Jeanne. 941-779-5095