Anna Maria Island Sun March 4, 2026

AMI Garden Club fashions a diamond jubilee

Anna Maria beach cabana rental

regulations adopted

The new commercial beach activity regulations take effect March 15.

BY JOE HENDRICKS SUN REPORTER | jhendricks@amisun.com

ANNA MARIA – The city’s new beach cabana rental regulations have been adopted and they take effect on Sunday, March 15.

The much-discussed cabana and tent rental regulations are included in the city’s new parks and recreation ordinance that city commissioners unanimously adopted on final reading on Thursday, Feb. 26.

Beach cabana rentals and all other commercial activities are currently prohibited in the city’s coastal conservation zones and recreation open space zones that encompass the public beaches and parks in Anna Maria

The new ordinance addresses commercial beach and park activities as a whole and specifically regulates commercial cabanas and tents located in a specific area that carries the city’s recreation open space zoning designation.

Commercial cabana and tent rentals will only be allowed in the recreation

This year’s fashion show theme honored the AMI Garden Club’s 75th anniversary.

BY JOE HENDRICKS SUN REPORTER | jhendricks@amisun.com

BRADENTON – The Anna Maria Island Garden Club’s fashion show luncheon netted over $40,000, according to club member Pat Olesen.

Attended by approximately 300 people, the annual fundraising luncheon and fashion show was held on Wednesday, Feb. 25, at the Icon Bayside restaurant at the IMG Academy Golf Club in Bradenton.

In celebration of the AMI Garden Club’s 75th anniversary, this year’s theme was “75 Years in Bloom - A Diamond Celebration.”

The fashion show featured 50 volunteer models from the greater Anna Maria Island community and business community who modeled fashions provided by businesses from Anna Maria Island, Longboat Key, Bradenton and Sarasota. The participating clothing businesses included AMI Outfitters, Camilyn Beth, Driftwood Beach, The Egret’s Nest, Gypsea Soul, The Island Cabana, Nomad Collection, Pink Pearl, Sea-renity Beach Spa & Bou-Tiki, Scott Spahr, Tweeds and the West Coast Surf Shop.

Stewart, Kaleta-Warren seek to dismiss StayTerra lawsuits

The motions to dismiss argue the original lawsuit complaints are based on invalid claims.

BY LESLIE LAKE & JOE HENDRICKS SUN REPORTERS

ANNA MARIA ISLAND – Attorneys for Kiri Stewart and Jennifer Warren-Kaleta have asked that the lawsuits filed against them by StayTerra Vacations be dismissed in each of their respective cases.

The separate lawsuits, both filed on Dec. 19, contain similar allegations of a “deliberate, bad faith scheme” related to a $105 million deal struck with Prime Business in 2024.

That deal centered around a Property Management Agreement (PMA) made between the lawsuit plaintiffs – Prime Vacations, GSP

Prime Holdings and StayTerra Vacations – and the founders and owners of Prime Business. According to the lawsuit complaints filed in December, the founders and owners of Prime Business are Shawn Kaleta and Roman Eckert.

According to the original lawsuit complaints, the Prime Business owners and founders agreed not to compete with StayTerra for five years; and the founders and owners of Prime Business granted Prime Vacations and GSP Prime Holdings the exclusive right to collect management fees for the properties involved for a minimum of seven years.

The original lawsuit complaints allege that less than 13 months after entering into the business deal, the

SEE LAWSUIT, PAGE 12

City celebrates city clerk’s retirement

Holmes Beach City Clerk Stacey Johnston began her career with the city in 2007.

BY JOE HENDRICKS SUN REPORTER | jhendricks@amisun.com

HOLMES BEACH – City

officials and visiting city clerks paid tribute to Holmes Beach City Clerk Stacey Johnston during her final regular city commission meeting on Tuesday, Feb. 24.

Johnston is retiring and her last day on the job is Friday, March 6.

Recently hired Marina Hovious will take over the clerk’s duties long held by Johnston.

Making the drive from their respective cities, Sanibel City Clerk Scotty Lynn Kelly, Dade City City Clerk Angie Guy and St. Leo Town Administrator and City Clerk

Andrea Calvert attended Johnston’s last city commission meeting.

Johnston began her career with the city in 2007, when she was hired as the deputy city clerk. She was named city clerk in 2011.

Kelly, who serves as the

Southwest Director for the Florida Association of City Clerks (FACC) read aloud a resolution from the FACC that was signed by Association President Elizabeth Garcia-Beckford.

The resolution expresses the association’s appreciation and gratitude for the many years of distinguished service and dedication Johnston exhibited during her 18 years with the city of Holmes Beach; and her 41 years of public service that date back to her earlier municipal work in her home state of Kansas.

The resolution notes Johnston joined the FACC in 2007, received her Certified Municipal Clerk designation in 1988, received her Advanced Academy Education designation in 1991 and received her Master Municipal Clerk designation in 2014.

The resolution notes Johnston served on the FACC Board of Directors and various committees from 2019-2023 and served as FACC president in 2021 and 2022.

“Stacey Johnston is a respected

absolutely amazing. We’ve got some talent in this city and I’m proud to say that I’ve been part of it,” Johnston said.

Titsworth praised Johnston for her ability to get along with everyone.

“You make everyone feel right at home,” Titsworth said. “She worked so hard to keep all of us in line and keep us from doing anything wrong.”

JOE HENDRICKS | SUN

Holmes Beach Administrative Assistant Kim Migaiola, Holmes Beach Deputy City Clerk

Michelle Lowe, incoming Holmes Beach City Clerk Marina Hovious, retiring Holmes Beach City Clerk Stacey Johnston, Sanibel City Clerk Scotty Lynn Kelly, Dade City City Clerk Angie Guy and St. Leo Town Administrator and City Clerk Andrea Calvert gathered during Johnston’s final regular city commission meeting.

leader and mentor, providing invaluable guidance to her colleagues within FACC and the city of Holmes Beach,” the resolution says.

After Kelly finished reading the resolution, Johnston said, “Thank you Scotty Lynn for being here; and thanks for all of you for coming. It’s been a long ride. It’s been a great ride. I never would

have guessed that I’d be in beautiful Holmes Beach, in Florida. It doesn’t get any better than that. I love the staff here.”

Johnston said she loved working for Mayor Judy Titsworth and former mayor Bob Johnson, who was also in attendance.

“The committees that we had and the residents here are

Titsworth said she’ll miss Johnston but she’s glad she can enjoy retirement after working her entire adult life.

Johnston, an east Manatee County resident, said she doesn’t have any big plans as to how she’ll spend her retirement, but she looks forward to spending more time riding the tandem bicycle she and her husband, Jeff, enjoy riding.

A farewell party for Johnston will take place on Thursday, March 5, at the Fifty Three Fifty Pourhouse in Holmes Beach at 5 p.m. The Pourhouse is located at 5350 Gulf Drive.

ISLAND NEWS

IN BRIEF

Commission reviewing milestone condo inspection ordinance

On Thursday, March 5, at 6 p.m., the Bradenton Beach City Commission will be presented with the first reading of Ordinance 26-566, an ordinance that establishes procedures for state-mandated milestone condominium inspections. Also on the agenda is approval of Resolution 26-993, a resolution that extends the Bradenton Beach Community Redevelopment Agency through 2047; and the approval of Resolution 26-994, which expresses the city’s opposition to offshore drilling. Under new business is the approval of a special event request to rope off a portion of the beach and waive the special event fees and the alcohol prohibition for the Moose Lodge pig roast on March 7; and the review of the pickleball rules to be installed at the city pickleball courts. The meeting will be held at the Katie Pierola Commission Chambers, 107 Gulf Drive N.

Scan this code with your smartphone to go there.

Voluntary elevation proposed for Seaside Gardens’ townhomes

During a recent association meeting, Seaside Gardens’ residents expressed support for the proposed code amendment.

BY JOE HENDRICKS SUN CORRESPONDENT | jhendricks@amisun.com

HOLMES BEACH – City staff is proposing a new city ordinance that would allow Seaside Gardens’ homeowners to reconstruct and elevate currently nonconforming townhomes on a voluntary basis. City code currently restricts those elevation activities to nonconforming ground-level townhomes that sustained significant hurricane or storm damage.

City Pier workshop scheduled

The Anna Maria mayor and city commission will conduct a city commission workshop on Thursday, March 5, at 1 p.m. to discuss the future use of the City Pier building previously occupied by Mote Marine.

Florida Maritime Museum hosting Nautical Flea Market

The Florida Maritime Museum will host its annual Cortez Nautical Flea Market on Saturday, March 14 from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. The free family-friendly event will feature dealers on new and used fishing gear, marine and diving equipment and coastal arts and crafts.

Florida Maritime Museum is located at 4415 119th Street W., Cortez.

The Nautical Flea Market is part of the 47th annual Manatee Heritage Days month-long celebration when Manatee County’s historical organizations celebrate the community’s heritage and provide opportunities for residents and visitors to experience local history. A schedule of events is now available and includes reenactments, lectures, classes and walking tours. Most are free, though some require a reservation or admission fee. Information: https://www.manateeclerk.com/clerksnews/2026-manatee-heritage-days.

Correction

Sen. Jim Boyd is not yet serving as the Florida Senate president. He begins serving the Senate president’s 2026-28 term after the November 2026 elections.

Development Services Director Chad Minor presented Draft Ordinance 26-03 to the mayor and city commissioners during the commission’s Feb. 24 work session. The ordinance would clarify and amend existing city code that regulates nonconforming structures in the Seaside Gardens community. The proposed ordinance would allow for the voluntary reconstruction of nonconforming units, as applicable to the townhouses located in the city’s R-4 residential zoning district.

MINOR’S MEMO

Included in the work session agenda packet was a memo from Minor that explains the existing regulations and the proposed changes.

Regarding the existing conditions, Minor’s memo says, “Seaside Gardens is a truly unique community that is unreplicated anywhere else in the city. However, this uniqueness has created zoning and land use challenges due to the fact the underlying zoning of Seaside Gardens (R-4, Medium density residential district) has created a series of nonconformities that impact many of the existing units and their ability to reconstruct or improve. In addition, a majority of the attached townhome units now located within the community are ground-level. As such, they are nonconforming to the Base Flood Elevation (BFE) requirements.”

Regarding previous city commis-

sion actions, Minor’s memo says, “In response to the issues surrounding reconstruction of nonconforming units, city commission approved Ordinance No. 23-19 in September 2023. Ordinance No. 23-19 allowed nonconforming townhomes within the R-4 zoning district which have been involuntarily damaged 50% or more of the townhome’s market value to be reconstructed provided the conditions or the ordinance are met. It should also be noted that at the time Ord. No.23-19 was adopted, many of the Seaside Gardens residents were not supportive of the voluntary reconstruction of the nonconforming units.”

Regarding the newly proposed ordinance, Minor’s memo says, “City staff attended the Seaside Gardens annual civic association/homeowners meeting on Feb. 9 and the issue of voluntary vs. nonvoluntary reconstruction was discussed. A majority of the homeowners in attendance were now supportive of the ability to reconstruct on a voluntary basis as well. They requested staff present an ordinance that would allow for the voluntary reconstruction of nonconforming units similarly to those units allowed to rebuild upon being involuntarily damaged 50 percent or more of the townhome’s market value. As a result, staff has prepared the attached ordinance language (Ord. No. 26-03) allowing voluntary demolition and reconstruction of nonconforming units.”

In summary, Minor’s memo says, “Staff’s focus and intent of the ordinances related to the Seaside

Gardens is to address, insofar as possible, the nonconformities and allow the common wall units the potential to rebuild to current floodplain standards and create flood-compliant and safer structures.

“It is also recognized that quality of life would no doubt be impacted by construction of an adjacent unit and the city must try and balance this with the ability to create resilient and safer buildings. Ordinance language to allow like-for-like units to be built in compliance with FEMA and the floodplain ordinance is critical. It is also important to note that it is not the staff’s intent to introduce allowances for additional structures within the flood hazard areas or to create additional nonconformities.”

When addressing the mayor and commissioners, Minor noted there are already hurricane-related elevation projects taking place in Seaside Gardens. In one instance, one side of a duplex is being elevated, with ground-level parking below, while the adjacent unit remains at ground level. Another project underway involves one unit of a Seaside Gardens triplex already being elevated.

No formal action was taken during the work session, but the commission supports this process moving forward. The proposed ordinance will be presented to the planning commission for preliminary review before being brought back to the city commission for additional discussion and future action.

City officials discuss homes to be demolished

Thirty-three Bradenton Beach homes have been demolished since the 2024 hurricanes struck.

BY LESLIE LAKE SUN REPORTER | llake@amisun.com

BRADENTON BEACH – City commissioners received an update on the influx of building permits sought for the construction of new homes. They were also updated on some pending home demolitions.

“There are 19 new homes being built,” Code Enforcement Officer Evan Harbus said during the Feb. 19 city commission meeting. “We’re also expecting some new permit applications to come in on 19 other empty lots.”

Harbus said he is working with Building Official Rob Perry on two homes that will ultimately be demolished.

“The big one right now is 2416 (Gulf Drive),” Harbus said. “It’s the blue house that sits on stilts on the beach. We spoke with the owner of the property and eventually that’s going to be demolished.”

Harbus said the city asked for temporary fencing to be placed around the house, which he described as

City officials expect the home at 1203 Gulf Drive S. (above) to be demolished due to hurricane-related damage. City officials expect the home at 2416 Gulf Drive (right) to be demolished due to safety concerns.

“rotting.” He said the property owner is in talks with the state to get approval for a new house to be built.

“We’ve been working on blighted properties – buildings that are either falling down or may collapse,” Perry said. “For 2416 Gulf, the eyebeams under there, I thought, were very critical. The stairs are pulling away from the building. I’m talking with DEP (Florida Department of Environmental Protection) representatives about putting safety fencing in the dunes around it.”

Perry said the building is unsafe and he’s been speaking with the owner

about having the building demolished.

“I think that one is ready to fall into the beach,” Perry said.

Another property officials expect to be demolished is the orange bungalow at 1203 Gulf Drive S.

“I’ve been in talks with the owner,” Harbus said. “They went for a grant from the Elevate Florida program but they were denied. They didn’t pass inspection. Rob and I are speaking with them and trying to figure out when that house will eventually be demolished.”

Elevate Florida is a Florida Division of Emergency Management program in

which homeowners can apply for funding to elevate structures in flood-prone areas.

“At 1203 Gulf Drive, he had a problem where he was trying to raise it,” Perry said. “My experience with raising these buildings is that it’s unsafe to raise old, wooden structures. They will not give you the grant because they feel it’s unsafe to raise those older structures that are over 50 years old, and they’re afraid they’re going to fall apart when they try to raise them.”

As of July 2025, 33 hurricanedamaged homes have been demolished citywide since the 2024 hurricanes.

OPINION

The Anna Maria Island Sun Staff

Publishers

Bob Alexander

John Reitz

Editor

Joe Hendricks

Reporters | Photographers

Joe Hendricks

Leslie Lake

Lance Roy

Columnists

Louise Bolger

Rusty Chinnis

Contributors

Steve Borggren

Capt. Rick Grassett

Layout

Ricardo Fonseca

Advertising Director

Shona Otto

Classified Ads

Bob Alexander

Graphics

Elaine Stroili

Ricardo Fonseca

Distribution

Bob Alexander

Tony McNulty

Brian Smith

Accounting

Leslie Ketchum

Phone: 941-778-3986

email: news@amisun.com | ads@amisun.com | classifieds@amisun.com

LETTERS TO THE EDITOR

Kudos to Holmes Beach mayor

Kudos to Mayor Judy Titsworth for such an intelligent and well-written article, “Holmes Beach mayor addresses growth,” on the future of Holmes Beach. The challenge she sets out – balancing growth with quality of life – is a difficult one and many of us came to Holmes Beach from places that failed to manage

EDITORIAL

Carol Ann Felts mourned, Florida House disappoints

BY JOE HENDRICKS SUN EDITOR

Manatee County residents continue to mourn the unexpected passing of District 1 County Commissioner Carol Ann Felts on Feb. 24.

Although she was elected to directly represent District 1 – the large commission district that encompasses Parrish, Myakka City, Parrish, portions of Ellenton and Palmetto and much of unincorporated eastern Manatee County – Felts admirably and forcefully represented all of Manatee County, including Anna Maria Island and Cortez, in her

it well. Based on traffic congestion alone, one could argue Holmes Beach is losing that balance. Ask the views of families who left the Island because it became too expensive to raise children here.

As the mayor notes, growth may be inevitable, but “smart growth” is not. It requires diligence and political will to achieve. There is constant pressure to allow more and greater growth because growth creates wealth, whether it be store owners

JOE HENDRICKS | SUN Manatee County Commissioner Carol Ann Felts passed away unexpectedly on Feb. 24.

efforts to protect the county from overdevelopment and to protect and preserve Manatee County’s remaining natural resources, wetlands and rural boundaries.

The agenda for the Tuesday, March 3, county commission meeting included a proclamation to be read in Felts’ honor, commission discussion about renaming a county park in Felts’ honor, commission discussion about a public memorial service and discussion about filling Felts’ vacant commission seat.

wanting more foot traffic or builders wanting more and larger buildings. With a permanent population of less than 3,000, each voter is key to the future of the Island. A small number of votes can make a major impact. As the mayor notes, today’s decisions dictate tomorrow’s quality of life. Shame on us if we fail to participate in those decisions.

Because Felts had not yet completed half of her four-year term, District 1’s registered voters will decide who serves the final two years of Felts’ term.

According to Manatee County Assistant Supervisor of Elections Sharon Stief, “The District 1 County Commission seat will be filled for the remaining two years during the 2026 election cycle. Once the governor has officially declared the seat as vacant, we will list it as a seat up for election to fill the remaining two years. The governor could also appoint someone to serve until the 2026 election.”

After the District 1 seat is officially declared vacant, interested candidates can file their initial campaign paperwork that includes the appointment of a campaign treasurer, the designation of a

John M. Campora, ChFC®, CRPC™ Financial Advisor

6400 Manatee Avenue West, Suite B Bradenton, FL 34209 941-779-2499

ON THE AGENDA

ANNA MARIA

10005 GULF DRIVE

FOR INFORMATION, CALL 941-708-6130

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

Thursday, March 5, 1 p.m., City Commission Workshop about vacant City Pier building

EVENTS

TUESDAY, MARCH 3, 10

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

SATURDAY, MARCH 7

Moose Lodge annual Pig Roast (open to the public), AMI Moose Lodge, 110 Gulf Drive S., Bradenton Beach

Event starts at noon, food seatings at noon, 2 p.m. and 4 p.m., $20, catered by Pig Out BBQ.

BRADENTON BEACH

107 GULF DRIVE N.

FOR INFORMATION, CALL 941-778-1005

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

Wednesday, March 4, 1 p.m., Planning and Zoning Board meeting CANCELLED

Thursday, March 5, 6 p.m., City Commission meeting

THURSDAY, MARCH 12SUNDAY, MARCH 29

“The Second Time Around,” Island Players Theatre, 10009 Gulf Drive, Anna Maria, 7:30 p.m. (2 p.m. on Sundays)

FRIDAY, MARCH 13

Anna Maria Island Artists’ Guild Night Market, Guild Gallery, 5414 Marina Drive, Holmes Beach, 5-7:30 p.m.

Anna Maria City Block Party, City Pier Park, 103 North Bay Blvd., Anna Maria, 5 p.m.

HOLMES BEACH

5801 MARINA DRIVE

FOR INFORMATION, CALL 941-708-5800

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

Wednesday, March 4, 10 a.m., Parks and Beautification Committee meeting

Wednesday, March 4, 3:30 p.m., Planning Commission meeting, CANCELLED

FRIDAY, MARCH 13, SATURDAY, MARCH, 14

Friends of the Island Library Jewelry Sale , Island Branch Library, 5701 Marina Drive, Holmes Beach, 11 a.m. to 4 p.m.

SATURDAY, MARCH 14

Cortez Nautical Flea Market, Florida Maritime Museum, 4415 119th Street W., Cortez, 9 a.m. to 1 p.m.

CABANA: Anna Maria beach cabana rental regulations adopted

weights, sandbags, or the like.”

open space-zoned area known as Gulf Front Park, which extends from Oak Avenue to Magnolia Avenue.

The new ordinance does not allow cabana and tent rentals in the coastal conservation-zoned areas that include the beach area in front of the Sandbar restaurant and extending toward Bean Point.

Existing city code still maintains the long-standing regulation that states nothing more than a single-pole structure, such as an umbrella, can be erected in a coastal conservation zone – and that includes privately-owned, non-rented cabanas and tents.

Adopted city ordinance 26-592 says, “Temporary shade structure means a portable free standing shelter providing sun protection such as a tent, umbrella, cabana, canopy, or the like. Temporary shade structures shall not exceed 169 square feet of ground coverage in total, and 13 linear feet in any direction, inclusive of any poles, pegs, tie-downs, anchors,

The adopted city ordinance says, “Commercial rental areas must be pre-ordered. No more than two commercial rental areas may be placed within 50 linear feet of each other, measured in any direction. Adjacent commercial rental areas shall not exceed 28 linear feet in any direction.”

Mayor Mark Short noted the ordinance does not regulate how many people can be located under a temporary shade structure or structures.

The ordinance says signage may not exceed a total of four square feet and must include the owner’s name and contact information. Stand-alone signage is not permitted.

The ordinance states the delivery and set up of temporary shade structures may not occur until 7 a.m. and the temporary structures must be removed from the beach by dusk – with an exception provided during stormy weather.

The ordinance requires any individual or entity providing

JOE HENDRICKS | SUN

Cabana and tent rentals will only be allowed between Oak Avenue and Magnolia Avenue.

a commercial beach rental area to have on file with the city valid proof of a $1 million insurance policy.

The fine for a first violation of the ordinance that takes effect March 15 is $100. The fine for a second violation is $200. The fine for third and subsequent violations is $500. The fine for leaving abandoned equipment on the beach is $50.

The commission asked City Attorney Becky Vose to insert additional enforcement language that provides the city with the ability to revoke beach rental rights for egregious repeat offenders for up to one year.

PUBLIC INPUT

When addressing the mayor and commission during public input, Elm Avenue beachfront homeowner Allea Newbold spoke in support of cabanas and tents being rented to residents and vacation rental guests.

When addressing the mayor and commission, My Beach Concierge owner Peery Heldreth sought and received clarification on some of the specific operational details contained in the ordinance.

Heldreth expressed his ongoing concerns about not being allowed to erect cabanas and tents along the popular beach area in front of the Sandbar restaurant.

Mayor Short told Heldreth the existing cabana and tent prohibitions will be enforced in that area and the coastal conservation zone regulations are something he and the commission will address as a separate matter in the future.

Heldreth thanked the mayor and commission for working with the cabana rental companies in developing the new regulations.

Commissioner Charlie Salem thanked Heldreth for his insights during the discussion and ordinance adoption process that began several months ago. When speaking to The Sun after the meeting, Heldreth said he had many existing cabana rental reservations scheduled for the Sandbar beach area during the season ahead. He said he must now cancel those reservations or relocate them to a different portion of the beach where cabana rentals are allowed. Heldreth said he hopes the city’s position on cabana rentals in at least some of the coastal conservation zones is revisited in the future.

FASHION: AMI Garden Club fashions a diamond jubilee

PAGE 1

Neda Noorani (Kern) emceed the fashion show. During her introductory remarks, she mentioned the “passion for fashion and flow ers and all things that bloom” the garden club has embraced for 75 years. She also said the fashions being modeled could be purchased after the show.

For the next hour, Noorani announced each model, the model’s outfit or ensemble and the business that provid ed it. The first models to walk the banquet room floor were garden club members Loretta Estabrooks, Kim Gargiule and Mary Lange, wearing early 1950s clothing provided by the Manatee Performing Arts Center to represent the styles women wore when the garden club was founded in 1951.

Anna Maria Mayor Mark Short was the first non-club member to walk the banquet room circuit, followed by Holmes Beach City Commissioner Terri Schaefer, both of whom wore outfits provided by AMI Outfitters.

While displaying their outfits, the models interacted with the audience members and the fashion show’s grand finale featured the models dancing around the room to Abba’s “Dancing Queen.”

Bob Slicker (still wearing

the Tweeds suit he modeled) then conducted a live auction that featured four items donated to the fundraiser.

The first item was a threehour beach ride for four people with Holmes Beach Police Chief Bill Tokajer. The winning bid was $1,100.

The second item was a private, two-hour, after-hours experience for six guests at Well Within, including treatments, champagne and hors d’oeuvres. The winning bid was $1,600.

The third auction item was a seven-day stay for six people in a two-bedroom beachfront condo at Anna Maria Island

Club in Bradenton Beach. The winning bid was $3,100.

The fourth and final auction item symbolized the garden club’s diamond anniversary: a three-carat, oval, lab-grown diamond necklace, with a white gold chain and setting.

As Slicker began soliciting bids, garden club member Janice Gale walked around the room showing the encased necklace to potential bidders. The winning bid was $2,500.

Julia Fay won the 50-50 raffle and claimed the $1,125 prize that represented half the money raised by that raffle.

The fundraising and luncheon activities included

pop-up shopping booths, dozens of donated raffle prizes and raffle baskets and a silent auction. Before the fashion show began, attendees enjoyed lunch that included sandwiches, salad, charcuterie-style meats and cheeses, finger desserts and more.

Later that week, Garden Club President Renitia Bertoluzzi said, “The Anna Maria Island Garden Club sincerely thanks our community for the tremendous support of our February fashion show fundraiser. Your generous sponsorships, donations and attendance made the event both joyful and successful,

with the proceeds directly supporting Island beautification and restoration projects. A special thank you to our fashion providers and models whose energy and creativity made the day truly special. Together, we are investing in the beauty and future of Anna Maria Island.”

Garden club member and fashion show coordinator Pat Olesen said, “I want to thank the community for such a tremendous response on sponsorships, donations and attendance, along with the fashion providers and models. They made this event special, fun and successful.”

Springfest featured art, crafts and food

Artists and Island restaurants gathered at City Field for Springfest.

LANCE ROY

SUN CORRESPONDENT

HOLMES BEACH — The Springfest arts and crafts show returned to City Field in Holmes Beach.

The arts and crafts show was held Saturday, Feb. 28, and Sunday, March 1.

Springfest featured a wide range of artists and makers, painters, photographers, woodworkers and jewelers who offered their original works for sale.

The inaugural “Taste of the Island” food tasting event took place Sunday.

Springfest 2026 also included the “Paint the Island” plein air art competition. Participating artists painted live on Friday, Feb. 27, and Saturday, Feb. 28, at various locations throughout Anna Maria Island and onlookers could watch the artwork develop and speak with the artists as they worked. The completed paintings were displayed and offered for sale in a silent auction under the City Field pavilion on Sunday afternoon.

The Art-N-Around booth operated by artists Troy and Susi Parriott of Jensen Beach displayed brightly colored plaster and cement sculptures of animals and coastal figures that included parrots, alligators,

coastal birds and octopuses – one of their most requested designs. Troy, and the couple’s son, Jeremy, designed the plaster and concrete figures and Susi hand-painted each piece.

Michael Ahlrichs Fine Art Photography of Westfield, Indiana, presented naturefocused photography that captured animals, insects, floral subjects and landscapes, along with beach and water scenes. Ahlrichs, from the Indianapolis area, said his photography began as part of a personal transformation more than 13 years ago while recovering from alcoholism.

“Photography became a way to honor that awakening,” he said.

Wood artist Clive Wright of New Windsor, New York, showcased his Hudson River Inlay artwork. Each piece begins with a hand sketch that becomes a detailed blueprint. Wright then combines multiple types of wood with materials such

“ This place has an amazing collection of spirits.” Josh

as turquoise, shells, malachite and mother-of-pearl to create smooth, inlaid designs.

Yvette Alleman, creator of Tide and Time Designs, displayed her resin artwork that included trays, coasters, clocks and custom statement pieces. After years of co-owning a resin business, Alleman recently launched her own venture focused on her personal artistic style.

“No two pours are ever the same, and that’s exactly how I like it,” she said.

Created by Darren and Michelle Gillitt of Scaly Mountain, North Carolina, the Pens with a Purpose booth featured hand-crafted fountain pens and wood-turned items. The couple began making walking sticks for their son's Boy Scout troop and later created custom pens for Eagle Scouts. Each item sold helps provide at least 25 meals to food banks in northeast Georgia and western North Carolina.

TASTE OF THE ISLAND

On Sunday, 59th Street was lined with the Island restaurants that participated in “Taste of the Island.”

The participating restaurants included Poppo’s Taqueria; and staff members Hannan, Jack and Maddy served tacos that featured ancho chicken, honey lime cabbage, pico de gallo, feta cheese and salsa verde served on corn or flour tortillas.

Topsail Steamer offered its Low Country Shrimp steam pots with peel-and-eat shrimp, andouille sausage, sweet corn and red potatoes.

Led by owner and chef Ben Sato, gRub Tropical BBQ served braised brisket tacos topped with apple slaw and cilantro lime cream, with team members Joe and Moussau preparing the tacos.

Toasted Mango Café featured its blackened mahi wrap with grilled mahi-mahi, mango salsa, lettuce and tomato.

Rock N Eggroll offered a variety of eggroll dishes filled with chicken, pork, cheesesteak and other creative combinations.

Maverick and Lulu from 92.1 CTQ’s “Maverick and Lulu in the Morning” radio show broadcast live from Springfest on Sunday. Festival attendees were encouraged to bring canned goods and other nonperishable food donations to support the Roser Food Pantry in Anna Maria.

The next Blue Ribbon Events arts and crafts show will take place on April 4–5 at Coquina Beach in Bradenton Beach.

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LAWSUIT: Stewart, Kaleta-Warren seek to dismiss StayTerra lawsuits

defendants “embarked on a deliberate, bad faith scheme to eviscerate the benefit of the bargain plaintiffs struck by facilitating purported transfers of the founders’ membership interest.”

The lawsuits seek not less than $5 million in damages against Stewart and the multiple property-specific LLCs named in her lawsuit; and not less than $9 million in damages against Warren-Kaleta and the multiple property-specific LLCs named in her lawsuit. Shawn Kaleta is not named as a defendant in either lawsuit, but he is named in Stewart’s lawsuit as her romantic partner and the father of her children. He is also the ex-husband of Jennifer Warren-Kaleta. And he is listed with the Florida Division of Corporations as the manager of several of the LLCs named in the StayTerra lawsuits filed separately against Stewart and Warren-Kaleta.

The motions to dismiss list the St. Petersburg-based Phillips, Hayden & Labbee law firm as the counsel for the defendants.

MOTIONS TO DISMISS

Both motions to dismiss were filed Feb. 23. In their introductions, both motions to dismiss state, “This is a commercial

dispute governed by a written agreement. The problem for plaintiffs (StayTerra) is that the argument they attach does not say what they need it to say. The Master Property Management Agreement (PMA) defines who is bound and what conduct is prohibited. It does not identify the LLC defendants as contracting parties. It does not prohibit the sale of ownership interests. It does not bar selfmanagement. Yet plaintiffs ask this court to recognize those non-existent obligations and hold non-parties liable for breaching them.”

“Unable to find support in the PMA’s text, plaintiffs layer on tortious interference and FDUTPA (Florida Deceptive and Unfair Trade Practices Act) claims built on the same core allegations. But Florida law does not allow litigants to rewrite contracts through creative pleading, convert routine corporate restructuring into tort liability, or transform a private contract dispute into a statutory unfair trade practices case. Because the subject agreement forecloses plaintiffs’ theories and the complaint fails to otherwise plead legally sufficient claims, dismissal of the entire complaint is warranted,” the motions to dismiss state.

JOE HENDRICKS | SUN

The LLC associated with this resort property in Holmes Beach is listed as a defendant in the WarrenKaleta lawsuit.

THE ARGUMENTS

The motions to dismiss contain arguments that state the counts pertaining to breach of contract “fail as a matter of law because the PMA does not bind the LLC defendants and no breach is pled.”

The first arguments in each motion to dismiss state, “The PMA identifies the contracting parties and the LLC defendants are not among them. Even assuming the LLC defendants were proper parties, the conduct alleged is expressly permitted by the PMA. Plaintiffs StayTerra and GSP lack standing to assert breach claims because they are not parties to the Master PMA,” the arguments state.

The second arguments in each motion to dismiss state, “Plaintiffs tortious interfer-

ence claims are legally deficient and cannot survive dismissal.”

The third arguments state, “The FDUTPA/unfair competition claim fails because no deceptive act is identified and the claim is duplicative of the breach of contract claim.”

In conclusion, both motions to dismiss say, “The written PMA controls this dispute – and it does not support plaintiff’s claims. The LLC defendants are not parties to the PMA. The conduct alleged does not breach its terms. The tortious interference counts attempt to impose liability on nonstrangers for lawful business decisions. The FDUTPA claim repackages the same contract allegations without identifying a single cognizable deceptive act against a consumer or other party FDUTPA was intended to apply to in the first place.

“Florida law does not permit courts to supply contractual terms that were never negotiated, expand contract disputes into tort liability or convert private commercial disagreements into statutory consumer claims. Because the defects in the complaint are legal, not technical, and cannot be cured without contradicting the agreements plaintiffs rely upon, dismissal with prejudice of the complaint in its entirety is required,” both motions to dismiss state.

City considers issuing dedicated cell phones

City employee phone records and text messages are public record, even when made on a personal phone.

BY LESLIE LAKE SUN REPORTER | llake@amisun.com

BRADENTON BEACH – In an effort to avoid the comingling of public and personal records, the city commission discussed a plan to provide city officials and police officers with dedicated city cell phones.

The discussion that occurred during the Feb. 19 city commission meeting comes on the heels of the city’s attempts to retrieve public records that remained in the possession of former city attorney Ricinda Perry.

On Feb. 19, City Clerk Terri Sanclemente presented the commission with a proposed plan to consider issuing city cell phones to city officials and police officers.

“I think it would be a benefit for each one of you to have a city cell phone,” Sanclemente said. “That is something for records keeping. Right now, you’re having to log calls or send your text messages to your laptop so you have it in your email for tracking. This (a city cell phone) would be easier for you when you decide you don’t want to do this anymore. Then the city has all those records and we don’t have to look around for them.”

Sanclemente suggested revisiting the proposal during budget discussions later this year.

“Right now, it’s something to think about,” she said. “I did talk to Chief Cosby about getting his officers city cell phones as well.”

Mayor John Chappie said he is in favor of issuing city cell phones.

“It makes it so much easier,” Chappie said. “Some legal issues come up at times and there

are request for records. It’s so much cleaner to just keep your personal business separate from city business.”

Perry retired on Sept. 18. In response to a Jan. 12 letter Perry received from current City Attorney Erica Augello seeking the immediate return of city records, Perry stated she was working to determine which of those records are personal and which constitute public record.

“Under statute, she was required to return them upon resignation. After the demand letter, she was required to do it within 10 business days,” Augello said during the Feb. 5 commission meeting.

On Feb. 19, Augello said Perry – through her representative, Michael Barfield – stated the requested records would begin being released on Feb. 24.

“She is being cooperative,” Augello said.

YOUR COMFORT ZONE?

Tingley Memorial Library celebrates grand reopening

The Tingley Memorial Library operates outside of the Manatee County library system.

BY LESLIE LAKE

SUN REPORTER | llake@amisun.com

BRADENTON BEACH – A wellattended grand reopening celebration at the Tingley Memorial Library on Tuesday, Feb. 24, showcased some new library initiatives.

“My goal is to reestablish the library as a community hub and bring energy back into the library,” Library Director Stephanie Katz said.

Under Katz’s direction, the library now features best-selling books, an expanded children’s section and book clubs featuring Florida authors.

The Tingley Memorial Library is not affiliated with the Manatee County library system and it is a membershipbased system. Adult membership is $10 a year and kids’ memberships are free with an adult membership.

The library was built in 1994 and was funded by benefactor Beulah Tingley. Tingley’s step-granddaughter, Mary Jo Morton, attended the grand reopening.

“I know this would mean a lot to Beulah,” Morton said. “The library

meant a lot to her and we’re very grateful that they’re doing so much to keep it going. I’m really encouraged by the amount of people that are here today.”

The library collection features popular fiction and non-fiction books, a children’s section, Florida history and local author collections, large-print books, local newspapers, magazines, tourist information, puzzles, DVDs and books on CD.

Additional library services include a small conference room with a kitchenette that must be reserved in advance, free public computers and Wi-Fi, black and white printing and copying for 25 cents per-page and hundreds of used and rare books for sale.

Off Stage Ladies meet March 11

The March meeting and luncheon of the Off Stage Ladies of the Island Players will be held at 11:45 a.m. on Wednesday, March 11, at the Anna Maria Oyster Bar’s Landslide location at 6906 14th Street W. in Bradenton. Gail Swain will present the slate of candidates for elections and nomina-

tions will also be taken from the floor. Please bring a $26 check for your meal (no cash). Anyone interested in joining the Off Stage Ladies can contact Roe Duncan at 941-932-2798. Dues are $30 per year and the meetings are held on the second Wednesday of the month, October through May.

Borrow a life jacket program launched

Manatee County has installed new life jacket racks on two Anna Maria beaches. One of the new life jacket racks is located near the U-shaped roadway along Gulf Boulevard, between Magnolia and Palm avenues. The other life jacket rack is located near the restrooms at Bayfront Park. The life jacket racks are part of a county-funded pilot program that encourages youngsters to borrow, wear and return the life jackets after swimming in those two areas. The racks were installed last week and the life jackets were added to the racks on Monday, March 2.

On the Cusp: legislative action needed

hile we’re still on the cusp of some of the year’s most exciting fishing, let me encourage you to express your opinion to your local state representative, Will Robinson Jr., on a very important issue that is addressed in Suncoast Waterkeeper’s February newsletter: adopting new legislation that fixes the state law created in 2025 by the Florida Legislature and Gov. Ron DeSantis’ adoption of Senate Bill 180 . The Suncoast Waterkeeper newsletter says, “For those familiar with the Save Our Wetlands campaign in Manatee County, Senate Bill 180 will carry heavy connotations. Last year, SB 180 is exactly what prevented Manatee County Commissioners from reverting wetlands buffer protections back to their previous state.

“Senate Bill 180, Section 2(b) states:

‘For one year after a hurricane makes landfall, an impacted local government may not propose or adopt: A more restrictive or burdensome amendment to its comprehensive plan or land development regulations.’ This language prevents counties (and cities) from taking action to protect wetlands and wetland buffers, among other things, which are crucial in maintaining coastal resiliency,” the newsletter says.

“Suncoast Waterkeeper has been sharing an action alert from 1000 Friends of Florida which aims to find a fix for last session’s SB 180. As of now, Senate Bill 840 offers the chance to restore limited, but essential local planning authority. But Senate Bill 840 cannot be passed without a companion in the House. Enter House Bill 217. 1000 Friends of Florida suggests this would be the best option to put on the agenda and amend language to match SB 840,” the Suncoast Waterkeeper newsletter says.

“To be clear, this is the only pathway to restoring Manatee County wetland buffer protections any time soon. Many

TOM RUFFALO | SUBMITTED

Captain Justin Moore, an active advocate for water and habitat protection, holds a large trout that his client, Jenny Ruffalo, caught on a past fishing trip.

representatives haven’t prioritized fixing SB 180 because they don’t see or experience the damage it has done to local planning efforts to safeguard our communities against increasingly extreme weather conditions. Write to the chair and members of the Intergovernmental Affairs Subcommittee and share how SB 180 has impacted our life here on the Suncoast, respectfully request that they

put HB 217 on the agenda and amend it to match SB 840,” the newsletter says.

“A special shout-out and appreciation to Manatee County Commissioner George Kruse for his unwavering leadership on this issue. If we want the House to act, they must hear from you!” the newsletter says in closing.

State Rep. Berny Jacques chairs the House Intergovernmental Affairs Subcommittee. The phone number for his Tallahassee office is 850-717-5059 and his email address is berny.jacques@ flhouse.gov. The phone number for Will Robinson’s Tallahassee office is 850-7175071 and the number for his Bradenton office is 941-242-8430. Robinson’s email address is will.robinson@flhouse.gov.

There are so many important issues now, including the proposed cruise ship port and preserving the home rule rights that would allow reversing the county’s wetland setback reductions. It’s never been more important to stay informed and act to protect the waters we call home. Let’s make sure our actions today ensure an exciting fishing future for generations to come.

March fishing warms up: part two

CAPTAIN RICK GRASSETT

As the warmer weather returns in March, flounder may be found on sand or mud bottom areas on both shallow and deep grass flats or around docks. Pompano may skip on the surface when you drift or run past them, giving their location away. Fish deep grass flats with a mixture of grass and sand and a strong tidal flow for the best action.

You may find Spanish mackerel, false albacore (little tunny), cobia or tripletail in the coastal Gulf this month. Look for diving or hovering terns to find Spanish mackerel or false albacore feeding on the surface. Quarter-ounce CAL jigs with shad tails or jerk worms, or top water plugs should work well for spin anglers. Fly anglers should score with small white flies, like my Grassett Snook Minnow or Ultra Hair Clousers fished on an intermediate sink tip fly line. Run crab trap lines at various depths to find tripletail or cobia

around crab trap floats. Anglers should score on tripletail with live shrimp, DOA Shrimp or lightly weighted flies with weed guards.

Baitbusters, PT’s and large, wideprofile flies, like Deceivers or EP flies, would be good fly choices for cobia. In the absence of any fish on the surface, check out one of the many artificial reefs or natural hard bottom areas that may hold baitfish and predators. Drift over structure and cast DOA Baitbusters or weighted flies on fast sinking fly lines to get deeper in the water column to catch them.

Cobia may also be swimming on the surface as they migrate from south to north following warmer water and baitfish. DOA

Conditions are usually good during March and fishing should heat up. Flats and night snook fishing are usually good options this month. I like to check the coastal gulf when conditions are good, since you could find something really good happening there. Our natural resources are under constant pressure from red tides fueled by industrial, agricultural 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!

REAL ESTATE

Tips on selling in a funky market

In recent years, homeowners in Manatee County have lived through hurricanes, floods, droughts and super-sized construction projects. Every single one of these events have had an effect on the real estate market, mostly in a negative way. Nevertheless, properties owned by individual homeowners continue to be their most valuable asset. So, if you’re thinking about selling, pay attention.

In most markets, when inventory is high and demand is low, sellers frequently set a low asking price to compete with other properties, but nothing is as simple as that. We live in a very diverse location where there are waterfront, beachfront, new subdivisions, condos, villas, duplexes and probably something I’ve left out. Therefore, the key to pricing is more about finding a recent sale that is as much like your property as possible and work with that number. The difficulty we are having in this market is finding the recent

Castles in the Sand

sales, especially if your home is unique in style and location.

The next obstacle for sellers is being objective. Not all kitchen renovations and bathroom renovations are created equal. If you renovated five or six years ago, you can’t compete with a home that recently was renovated, adding value to the property.

Location and view are subjective and difficult to put a dollar value on. Some buyers prefer a full Gulf view and others prefer the activity on a bay view, but they all add value. When staging the interior of your home, declutter and make your home as

neutral as possible. That includes walls, floors, décor or anything else that might make the buyer’s eye look at the object rather than the room. Same with family photos: be discrete about which photos to display, if any. Wedding pictures are a killer since buyers instantly are drawn to them. Who doesn’t want to look at a lovely bride and groom?

If you’re in contract with a buyer that includes an appraisal contingency for mortgage purposes, and the appraisal is short, what happens? At this point everyone can pull back and say I want out of the transaction and the contract is voided. Most of the time there is a way to hold the transaction together by either the seller accepting a lower price, the buyer coming up with more cash or some negotiation in between.

Since virtually all buyers have a home inspection, it’s good strategy for the seller to have a home inspection on their property before going on the

market. This gives the seller the chance to make necessary repairs ahead of time and sets the stage for a more open and friendly transaction.

Finally, my favorite Halloween topic is whether a seller is required to disclose that the property is believed to be haunted. There is no one answer to this and no one opinion on what is considered a stigmatized property. The laws related to this are governed by state and may need to be disclosed, or may not. Frankly, I would disclose the haunting, even if you personally don’t believe it. You never know what is on someone else’s mind. When you’re selling what could very well be your largest asset, you need to take the time to understand all aspects of a real estate transaction. Seek the advice of realtors, attorneys, inspectors, mortgage brokers or anyone else who works in the vast network of real estate. Be objective, and don’t ask Casper for his advice, no matter how friendly he is.

CENTER SCOREBOARD

8-11 ALL GIRLS’ FLAG FOOTBALL (WEEK 7)

Emily Moss Designs 20 (3-3-0) Print Wizards 19 (4-1-1)

Sato Real Estate 26 (4-1-1)

Poppo’s Taqueria 19 (0-6-0)

8-10 FLAG FOOTBALL (WEEK 7)

Sato Real Estate 13 (3-3) Grooms Motors & Automotive 0 (0-6)

Shady Lady Horticultural Services 23 (6-0)

Adrian Griffin Interiors 14 (5-1)

Gulfster.com 26 (2-4)

Solid Rock Construction 6 (2-4)

11-13 FLAG FOOTBALL (WEEK 7)

Sato Real Estate 48 (3-4)

Cloud Pest Control 6 (2-5)

Impact Florida Windows 14 (3-4)

USA Fence 12 (3-4)

82 West Home Inspections 20 (7-0)

Slim’s Place 0 (6-1)

Reed Physical Therapy & Fitness 40 (4-3)

G.I. Bins 17 (0-7)

14-17 FLAG FOOTBALL (WEEK 7)

Moss Builders 19 (6-0)

Swordfish Grill 12 (5-1)

Better on Bikes 27(3-3)

MI-Box 25 (1-5)

Solid Rock Construction 33 (3-3)

HSH Design 20 (2-4)

ADULT FLAG FOOTBALL (WEEK 6)

Reel Coastal Properties 39 (5-1)

Beach House Real Estate 15 (3-3)

Coaster Continent 46 (5-1)

Slim’s Place 39 (0-6)

The Fish Guy Aquarium Services 42 (6-0)

Solid Rock Construction 33 (3-3)

Salty Printing 26 (3-3)

Sandbar 19 (2-4)

Moss Air 38 (2-4)

Edible Cookie Dough Cafe 20 (1-5)

ADULT 35+ SOCCER (WEEK 7)

Hogan’s Pool Services & Repair 6 (5-0-1)

Bubble Binz 3 (1-3-2)

MG Construction 4 (3-2-0)

Emily Moss Designs 2 (2–40)

ADULT INDOOR SOCCER (WEEK 7)

Pool America 16 (3-2-0)

Solid Rock Construction 10 (2-3-1)

Salty Printing 0 (1-3-2)

Sato Real Estate 0 (3-1-2)

Lee-Hawks, Sofran-LaMara win horseshoe matches

Bob Lee and Bob Hawks won the day’s competition on Wednesday, Feb. 25, after holding on for a 21-19 win over Gary Howcroft and Steve Kriebel at Anna Maria Horseshoes. Joining them in the winner’s circle were Tim Sofran and Bo LaMura, who came out on top after a fourway playoff of teams that went 3-0 during pool play on Saturday, Feb. 28. In the semi-finals Sofran and LaMura edged out Howcroft and Kriebel 22-15, while Hawks and Herb Schutt moved on after a 21-3 win over Skoloda and Billy Silver. In the final, Sofran and LaMura skunked Hawks and Schutt 21-0 to earn the day’s bragging rights.

McCalls Beach Castle Condo 5310 Gulf of Mexico Dr., #16, LBK

2BR/2BA/ A4673264/ $699,000 Miguel Rosa (941) 477-5928

/ A4671485/ $5,000,000 Ed Taaffe (636) 346-6165

1801 GulfDrN., #160, BradentonBeach

2BR/2BA /A4677458/ $465,000

Becky Smith(941) 773-1954

Elfi Starrett (941) 720-3528

Key Royale Golf Club scores

MONDAY, FEB. 23RDMODIFIED STABLEFORD AND SKINS GAME

First place: Jeff Jump, +7

Second place: Peter Solleveld, +4

Skins: Bill Shuman, hole 2; Matt White, hole 6

THURSDAY, FEB. 26 - SCRAMBLE/SHAMBLE COMBO - PAR 43

First place team: Kevin Blackman, Larry Davis, Tim Donnar, Bob Paine, 40 (- 3)

Second place teams: John Cassee, Brian Comer, John Kolosjeski and Jerry Martinek tied with Marcia Friesen, Tim Friesen, Bill MacMillan and Bill Shuman, 42 (- 1)

THURSDAY, FEB. 26 - NIGHT GOLF

Key Royale Golf Club held its second nighttime golf event, featuring 32 golfers playing the

par-3 match with the course lit up and glowing. The team of Jenny Huibers, Ron Huibers, Julia Fay and John Fay won the night tournament with a score of 24 (-3). Jim Bailey and Kathy

Riordan won the lighted men’s and women’s cornhole games. Matt Clemens won the men’s bright putting contest and Ginny Goonan won the women’s bright

EDITORIAL: Carol Ann Felts mourned, Florida House disappoints

campaign bank account and the statement of the candidate. The candidate qualifying period for the four county commission races opens at noon on June 8 and closes on June 12. The county commission primaries conclude on Aug. 18 and the general election concludes on Nov. 3.

CRUISE PORT DREDGING

During the week that Felts passed, the Florida House of Representatives failed to act on two pieces of state legislation of importance to Felts, her fellow county commissioners and the citizens of Manatee County.

On Feb. 19, the Florida Senate voted 38-0 to adopt Sen. Jim Boyd’s proposed amendment to SB 302. The amended Senate legislation now contains proposed dredging prohibitions and provisions specific to the Terra Ceia Aquatic Preserve in Manatee County. Boyd’s amendment would prohibit, or at least make more difficult, the dredging activities

needed to build a cruise port in the Terra Ceia Aquatic Preserve, near Rattlesnake Key and the Sunshine Skyway Bridge.

Before the adoption of Boyd’s amendment, SB 302 didn’t mention or reference the Terra Ceia Aquatic Preserve. At the time, the Senate legislation pertained specifically to the Biscayne Bay Aquatic Preserve in the Miami area. The amended version of SB 302 now includes the same protections, prohibitions and provisions proposed for the Biscayne Bay Aquatic Preserve.

The amended and adopted version of SB 302 was delivered to the House members “in messages” but as of Sunday, March 1, the Florida House of Representatives, which includes State Rep. Will Robinson Jr. (R-Bradenton), had not taken any action on the dredging restrictions proposed by the Senate.

The House’s related coastal resiliency bill, CS/HB 1035, pertains to the Biscayne Bay Aquatic Preserve and does not reference the Terra Ceia Aquatic Preserve.

CS/HB 1035, as currently writ -

ten, had not been subjected to any committee votes or a vote by the House members as a whole.

The 2026 legislative ends March 13. If the House members don’t pass a House bill that matches SB 302, the Senate’s proposed Terra Ceia Aquatic Preserve dredging protections will not be enacted as new state law.

SB 180 FIX STALLED

As of March 1, the House members had also not taken significant legislative action similar to Senate Bill 840 – the land use-related “glitch bill” filed by Sen. Nick DiCeglie (R-St. Petersburg) that attempts to fix some of the damage created by the Florida Legislature’s 2025 passage of Senate Bill 180.

SB 180 originally intended to protect property owners’ rights to repair and rebuild their hurricanedamaged structures, but the 2025 legislation was then amended in a manner that essentially cripples city and county governments’ ability to make changes to their land development codes and

comprehensive plans that might be considered “more burdensome or restrictive” than the city or county land use regulations and comprehensive plans in place retroactive to Aug. 1, 2024.

Senate Bill 840 successfully passed through all its preliminary committee stops and on Feb. 19 the Senate members voted 38-0 in favor of adopting the Senate legislation that was then forwarded “in messages” to the House members, who could copy and adopt the Senate legislation if they wanted to.

As of March 1, the House members had not taken action on SB 840; nor had they taken any committee votes or floor votes on the adoption of the related House bill, HB 1465. If the House fails to adopt a House bill that matches SB 840, there won’t be a SB 180 fix in 2026.

The Sun suspects Carol Ann Felts would be disappointed by the House members’ inaction on these two critically important legislative matters, but there’s still time for them to act.

FUN IN THE SUN

CLASSIFIEDS

ANNOUNCEMENTS

BRIDGE GAMES EVERY FRIDAY 12:30 at Roser church starting February 6, 2026. call 314-324- 5921.

BOATS

BOATS ARE SELLING VERY WELL. Season has started. Contact Dave Struber- 941-2283489

ISO BOAT SLIP for sale preferably that already has a lift & water & will fit min of 22’ center console. . Kelly Gitt The Gitt Team Keller Williams on the Water 941-799-9299.

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

GARAGE SALE

MT VERNON FLEA MARKET 4701 Independence Drive, Bradenton. Saturday, March 7. 8am to 2pm. Huge selection of jewelry this year!!! Clothing, linens, shoes, furniture, housewares and more!!! Breakfast and lunch available for purchase.

HEALTH CARE

NOW AVAILABLE HEALTH CARE at your home by Certified Nursing Assistant! 12 years experience. Call Dennis Church 815519-3993

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

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

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

RETIRED LIFETIME PAINTER. Works alone. $27 per hour. Insured 502817-6786

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

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GULF VIEWS AND INTRACOASTAL VIEWS, 5 bed 4 baths, elevator, 3 car garage, roof top deck, FURNISHED pool, outdoor kitchen, 2014 custom built home, 4101 4th Street Holmes Beach. $2,420,000. BEST VALUE ON THE ISLAND. Sharon Hightower RE/MAX Alliance Group 941-330-5054

NEW LISTING SANDY POINT Condo 2BR/2BA NEW flooring, new bathrooms, updated kitchen, screened porch, high ceilings, new roof, siding, partial furnished, 2 car tandem parking. $515,000. Sharon Hightower RE/ MAX Alliance Group 941-330-5054

SARASOTA BAY R/V PARK 1BR1BA cabin 12

Sea Grape Totally updated/$38,500 1 mile from beach Pic or app..402-2238068

WATERFRONT SEASIDE

GARDENS townhouse, End Unit, 2BR/2BA, 40’dock, Boat Lift, New Seawall and patio. Outside shower. Sold As Is $650,000. Call 609-2319564

RENTALS: ANNUAL

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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.

AMI BRADENTON BEACH 6 month or one year lease. Furnished 2BR/1BA. $1700/mo water, cable TV, internet included. Call/ Text 517-548-1327

HOLMES BEACH DUPLEX, 2BR/2BA, unfurnished, elevated with covered parking and storage. Walk to beach, shops, and restaurants. Annual $2500/mo. Call 941-7797822

BUSINESS & SERVICE

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

JANUARY- MARCH 2027Looking for a cute 1BR two short blocks to the beach for 3 months?

$5,700/mo + taxes/fees. Give us a call! Fran Maxon Real Estate 941-778-2307 rentals@franmaxon realestate.com.

HOLMES BEACH

2BR/2BA WATERFRONT, first floor condo avail. for rent monthly April thru Dec. Discount for multiple months; walk to shop and to beach, 2 pools, tennis/pickleball. No pets, no smoking. Call Kathy 973-2190335

TRANSPORTATION

ANYTIME TRANSPORTATION to all Airports, Casino, etc. Tampa/St. Pete $85. Sarasota $40. Pets welcome. Very dependable. Reasonable rates. Contact Jeanne. 941-7795095