Anna Maria Island Sun January 28, 2026

Lawmakers react to proposed cruise ship terminal

StayTerra Vacations files lawsuit against Kiri Stewart, Magnolia Cottages

The lawsuit mentions Shawn Kaleta and Roman Eckert as the founders and owners of Prime Business.

BY LESLIE LAKE SUN REPORTER | llake@amisun.com

ANNA MARIA ISLAND – Claiming a “deliberate, bad faith scheme to eviscerate the benefit” of a $105 million deal struck with Prime Business in 2024, StayTerra Vacations has filed a civil lawsuit against Kiri Stewart, Magnolia Cottages LLC and 10 additional LLCs.

Filed on Dec. 19 with the 12th Judicial Circuit Court in Bradenton, the lawsuit names as plaintiffs StayTerra Vacations LLC, Prime Vacations LLC and GSP Prime Holdings LLC.

The lawsuit names as defendants Kiri Stewart, Magnolia Cottages LLC, 48 Street LLC, 9801 Gulf Drive LLC, 224 Chilson Ave. LLC, 243 S. Harbor Dr. LLC, 518 Spring LLC, 2403 Avenue C LLC, 128 Fillmore LLC, 2210 Avenue A LLC, 103 Park Ave. AMI LLC and 6548 Sabal Dr. LLC.

BY LESLIE LAKE SUN REPORTER | llake@amisun.com

MANATEE COUNTY – State and local lawmakers reacted to the proposed development of a cruise ship terminal in northwest Manatee County on the Knott-Cowen tract of land located north of Rattlesnake Key and seaward of the Sunshine Skyway Bridge.

The proposed cruise port, a collaboration between cruise ship terminal operator SSA Marine and Tampa-based Slip Knott LLC, was recently announced on the knottcowencruise. com website.

On Friday, Jan. 23, State Rep. Will Robinson expressed his opposition in a message he posted shared at his personal Facebook page.

"I cannot think of a worse place to put a cruise ship terminal. I’ve tried to build a legacy with my family with the Robinson Preserve on environmental protection and keeping things pristine for future generations. We are at a point now where there is a proposal that would disrupt that,” he wrote.

“To me, this area is in no shape or measure compatible with cruise ships, so economic benefits don’t matter if they’re not compatible. It would permanently change the character of that area to our region’s detriment,” Robinson stated.

Anna Maria Commission rejects ferry landing resolution

City and county officials will continue discussing a City Pier ferry landing.

BY JOE HENDRICKS SUN REPORTER | jhendricks@amisun.com

ANNA MARIA – While still supportive of some sort of ferry landing at the City Pier after the new pier walkway is built, the Anna Maria City Commission voted 5-0 to reject a proposed city resolution that would have specified some of the conditions of the county’s desired Gulf Islands Ferry stop.

The commission took this action on Thursday, Jan. 22. When presenting the proposed resolution for city commission consideration, Mayor Mark Short said it included language requested by the county.

THE RESOLUTION

The proposed (and now rejected) city resolution said, “The city commission of the city of Anna Maria hereby supports and agrees to the construction of a water ferry landing

SEE FERRY, PAGE 4

Trolley grants awarded to Island, Cortez non-profits

The grants are funded by advertisements placed on the Free Island Trolleys.

BY JOE HENDRICKS SUN REPORTER | jhendricks@amisun.com

HOLMES BEACH – The Anna Maria Island Chamber of Commerce awarded trolley grants to 17 recipients from Anna Maria Island and Cortez.

The grant award ceremony was held at the Waterline Villas & Marina on the evening of Thursday, Jan. 22.

After the grant award ceremony ended, Chamber President Terri Kinder explained how the grants are funded and awarded.

“We were giving away trolley grant monetary awards to 17 non-profits and not-for-profits on the Island and in Cortez that applied for the grants and were accepted,” Kinder said.

The trolley grant awards are funded by revenues generated by the advertising placed on the Free Island Trolleys operated by

Manatee County.

“We sell the advertising on the trolleys. We are then required to pay the county $60,000 a year, and that helps keep the trolleys free. After the Chamber retains a small percentage to manage the program, the remainder of the advertising revenue has to be given back to the Island and the Cortez communities,” Kinder said.

“This year, we gave away $17,472. Since the beginning of the trolley grant awards in 2024, the Chamber and the Manatee County trolley program (MCAT) have awarded over half a million dollars to Island and Cortez non-profits,” she said.

THE RECIPIENTS

The grant given to Anna Maria Elementary School will be used for the reading and math tutoring program for third, fourth and fifth-grade students.

The grant given to the Anna Maria Island Art League will be used for art education workshops.

The grant given to the Anna

Maria Island Garden Club will be used to restore a wind sculpture garden.

The grant given to the Anna Maria Island Historical Society will be used to purchase a largescreen tablet and a floor stand for the tablet.

The grant given to the Anna Maria Island Privateers will be used for operations support for marketing and recruitment strategies.

The grant given to Anna Maria Island Turtle Watch & Shorebird Monitoring organization will be

used for “Turtles-to-Go Trunk” hands-on activities.

The grant given to the Annie Silver Community Center will be used to update the grounds.

The grant given to the Artists’ Guild of Anna Maria Island will be used for the Guild's community market night program.

The grant given to the Cortez Village Historical Society will be used to increase community awareness with the society’s "Cortez: Coffee, Culture & Conservation" events.

The grant given to the Friends

of the Florida Maritime Museum will be used for a flat file collections project.

The grant given to the Friends of the Island Library will be used for seating in the reading area.

The grant given to the Island Players will be used for a black backdrop curtain for the theater.

The grant given to the Kiwanis Club of Anna Maria Island will support the All-Island Churches Interdenominational Easter Morning Sunrise Service.

The grant given to the Roser Memorial Community Church will assist in running the church’s Summer Vacation Bible School.

The grant given to the Rotary Club of Anna Maria Island will be used for the Good Citizenship/ Character Building program at Anna Maria Elementary.

The grant given to The Center of Anna Maria Island will be used for low to moderate-income family participation in Center programs.

The grant given to Wildlife Inc. will be used to help with the care and feeding of the wildlife.

ISLAND NEWS

IN BRIEF

Bradenton Beach building official resigns

Citing personal and health reasons, Bradenton Beach Building Official Bill Palmer tendered his resignation on Wednesday, Jan. 21.In a letter to Mayor John Chappie and city commissioners, Palmer wrote: “Due to personal and health issues I am resigning my position as Building Official for the City of Bradenton Beach. I appreciate the opportunity given to me and enjoyed working with all my co-workers. I wish everyone the best in the future.”

LESLIE LAKE | SUN

Building Official Bill Palmer, shown here at a June meeting, tendered his resignation on Jan. 21.

Palmer has been the city’s building official since March 5, 2025. A city meeting will be held on Tuesday, Jan. 27, at 9:30 a.m. to discuss filling the vacant building official position.

Slicker’s Eatery hosting send-off party

Before closing the doors of Slicker’s Eatery after five years of ownership, Bob Slicker will throw a send-off party and pig roast on Friday, Jan. 30. Slicker’s Eatery posted the following Facebook announcement that says, “Thank you for all your support with all we've done these past five years! Please come by and let us give you another hug. We will party until we run out of product. Please come help and celebrate with our send-off party … this is our last go. Slicker's Eatery, where all are welcome, for goodness' sake.” The send-off party will include live music by Steve Paradis. The party starts at 3 p.m. and will go until it ends. Slicker’s Eatery is located at 12012 Cortez Road W. in Cortez.

Scan this code with your smartphone to go there.

FERRY: Anna Maria Commission rejects ferry landing resolution

FROM PAGE 1

adjacent to the City Pier, should Manatee County decide to construct such a water ferry landing, subject to the stipulations and conditions set forth in this resolution.”

The proposed resolution said the city’s support for the construction of a water ferry landing adjacent to the City Pier would be expressly conditioned upon the following stipulations:

• “The water ferry landing may be located on either the east side or the west side of the pier walkway, but shall not be located adjacent to the T-end of the pier.

• “The water ferry landing shall be a separate structure from the pier and shall be connected to the pier by a walkway or gangway.

• “Construction of the water ferry landing shall occur only after completion of the repairs currently being conducted to the pier as a result of Hurricanes Helene and Milton.”

The proposed resolution said, “The city of Anna Maria agrees that it shall not charge Manatee County a maintenance fee for the pier in connection with the construction or operation of the water ferry landing.”

COMMISSION RESPONSE

Commissioner Chris Arendt said he has a problem with the larger ferry boat bringing many more people to the City Pier if the county’s not willing to share some of the additional maintenance costs associated with the additional use of the pier and the pier’s public restrooms.

The other commissioners agreed with Arendt’s position and Commissioner John Lynch noted the county has enough money to share the ferry-related pier maintenance costs.

Short said he would continue his

discussions with county officials and as a placeholder would insert a proposed $5,000 per month maintenance fee in the next revision of the city resolution.

Short noted that during the commission’s previous meeting, the commission unanimously approved an interlocal agreement that will provide the city with up to $2 million in county commission-controlled tourist development tax revenues generated by the 6% tourist development tax the county levies on all licensed hotel, motel, resort and vacation rental stays of six months or less.

Commissioner Kathy MorganJohnson asked if the $2 million in county support for the pier replacement project is contingent on the city allowing the county to then install a ferry landing.

“Let’s just say it may influence the timing of the signing of that agreement,” Short replied.

The commissioners agreed that the city, and not the county, would decide which side of the new pier walkway the ferry landing would be located on. The commissioners prefer a ferry landing located on the right side of the pier, as viewed from shore.

The commissioners also expressed concerns about the proposed gangway and how it would connect to the pier.

Although the proposed resolution was unanimously rejected, the ferry landing discussions between the city and the county will continue in hopes of reaching an agreement.

FERRY SERVICE

In January 2024, the first Gulf Islands Ferry 49-passenger pontoon boat arrived at the City Pier and docked at the public boat landing where the walkway met the T-end of the pier.

Ferry service to the City Pier has been suspended since Hurricane Milton destroyed most of the pier walkway in October 2024.

The county now desires a new, county-funded ferry landing that would accommodate the larger, partially enclosed Manatee Belle ferry boat that is expected to be put in service soon, with the smaller boats then traveling between various destinations on Anna Maria Island. Ferry service is currently available between downtown Bradenton and the Bradenton Beach Pier.

‘Vacationing in Cortez’ exhibit at Bishop Museum

The Florida Maritime Museum (FMM) in Cortez is excited to announce that its brand-new traveling exhibition, “Vacationing in Cortez: Greetings from Old Florida,” which can now be seen at The Bishop Museum of Science and Nature in Bradenton. The exhibition tells the story of tourism in Cortez, highlighting both the charter fishing industry and the old Albion Inn built in 1896, where the U.S. Coast Guard Station Cortez currently stands. “We would like to give a big thank you to the Bishop Museum of Science and Nature for providing a space to share this exhibition with our community and for making this historic collaboration possible,” the museum’s Facebook announcement says. FMM members will receive an invitation to a VIP reception celebrating the exhibition in February. The Bishop Museum is located at 201 10th Street West in Bradenton.

MANATEE COUNTY PUBLIC LIBRARY | SUBMITTED

The Albion Inn building was built in 1896 and expanded in the early 1900s.

Right, the “Vacationing in Cortez: Greetings from Old Florida” exhibit is on display at the Bishop Museum.

Golfers, sponsors, raffle prizes sought for Chamber golf tourney

The Anna Maria Island Chamber of Commerce will host its 27th annual AMI Chamber Golf Tournament at the IMG Academy Golf Club in Bradenton on Friday, May 8. The chamber is now seeking golfers, sponsors and raffle prize donations.

The golf teams consist of four players and the entry fee includes 18 holes of golf, green and cart fees, lunch and dinner and complimentary beverages. The fee for an individual golfer, with dinner included, is $200. The fee for a team of four, with dinner included, is $700. This year’s tournament will also feature a helicopter drop/closest to the pin contest.

The chamber seeks tournament sponsors and offers a variety of sponsorship levels.

Most sponsorships (excluding business vendor) include four golfer registrations.

The chamber also seeks raffle prize donations for the awards dinner. Donor businesses will receive recognition in the prize donor list and will be announced during the dinner. Any raffle donation is greatly appreciated. If you’re not able to drop your raffle donation off at the chamber office (5313 Gulf Drive in Holmes Beach), someone from the chamber will arrange to pick it up. Proceeds from the tournament will fund three college scholarships for deserving high school seniors in Manatee County. To register for the tournament, request a registration form at info@ amichamber.org or call the chamber at 941-778-1541. To donate a raffle prize or learn more about the sponsorship opportunities, email Logan@ islandreal.com or info@ amichamber.org, or call the chamber.

The Anna Maria Island Sun Staff

General Manager

Bob Alexander

Editor

Joe Hendricks

Reporters | Photographers

Joe Hendricks

Leslie Lake

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

PORT: Lawmakers react to proposed terminal

FROM PAGE 4

SEAPORT MANATEE

On Jan. 23, Florida Senate President Jim Boyd shared on his Facebook page a statement from the Manatee County Legislative Delegation about House Bill 4073 – legislation that pertains to Manatee County’s governance of SeaPort Manatee. That bill, sponsored by Rep. Bill Conerly, sought to restructure the Manatee County Port Authority into an independent district.

Since it opened as Port Manatee on county-owned land in 1970, Port Manatee (now SeaPort Manatee) has primarily been utilized by cargo ships. But Regal Cruises did sail from the cruise terminal’s Berth 9 from 1993 to 2003, according to the SeaPort Manatee website.

“We support the conversation of an independent board to govern and advance a long-term vision for SeaPort Manatee. Under the leadership of experienced, business-focused and community-minded board members, Seaport Manatee will be better positioned to modernize, compete and reach its full potential as an enterprise while prioritizing environmental stewardship and maintaining public accountability. We believe that the filed HB 4073 was wellintentioned. During the Manatee

County Delegation hearing, we requested that the public reach out to us with their concerns as the bill progressed through the legislative process. Many of you have contacted our offices, and we appreciate your input,” the delegation’s statement says.

“The proposed cruise terminal on Rattlesnake Key has understandably created public angst. While HB 4073 has no direct relationship to a cruise terminal, there are concerns about proposed changes to control and jurisdiction at this critical time. Therefore, we believe it is prudent to pause and withdraw the local bill from further consideration this legislative session and allow for continued dialogue with all stakeholders.”

The delegation stated its goal is to protect the coastal lands along Tampa Bay.

“It is also important to set the record straight on Rattlesnake Key. The island and surrounding wetlands are some of the last remaining undeveloped coastal lands in Tampa Bay and it was our goal to protect them,” the delegation’s statement said.

The delegation’s statement notes there were previous attempts made to purchase the property for conservation.

“In 2022, we successfully secured $23 million in state funding to purchase the property for

conservation. Unfortunately, the Florida Department of Environmental Protection (FDEP) did not approve the purchase based on the FDEP appraisal,” the delegation’s statement says.

“In 2024, we again secured approximately $8 million, with the county prepared to contribute additional funds, but negotiations fell apart when the property owner believed the land was worth more. The property has since been sold to a private entity, which is now pursuing a cruise terminal,” the statement says.

“There will be no commercial development or construction on Rattlesnake Key. The intended

ANNA MARIA

10005 GULF DRIVE

FOR INFORMATION, CALL 941-708-6130

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

Tuesday, Jan. 27, 1 p.m., City Commission town hall meeting, discussing vacant pier building

EVENTS

TUESDAY, JAN. 27, FEB. 3

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

THURSDAY, JAN. 29

Friends of the Island Library lecture series, Carol Ann Felts, on “Florida Crackers,”

BRADENTON BEACH

107 GULF DRIVE N.

FOR INFORMATION, CALL 941-778-1005

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

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

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

HOLMES BEACH

5801 MARINA DRIVE

FOR INFORMATION, CALL 941-708-5800

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

Tuesday, Jan. 27, 2 p.m., City Commission meeting

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

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

Island Branch Library, 5701 Marina Drive, in Holmes Beach, 2 p.m.

FRIDAY, JAN. 30

Slicker’s send-off and pig roast, Slicker’s Eatery, 12012 Cortez Road W., Cortez. 3 p.m. to ?

SATURDAY, JAN. 31

Cortez Village Historical Society, “Coffee, Culture and Conversation,” Cortez Cultural Center, 11655 Cortez Road W., Cortez. 10 a.m. to noon.

THURSDAY, FEB. 5

Friends of the Island Library lecture series, Ryan Nunez, on “Artificial Intelligence: What It Is and What It Can Do for Us,” Island Branch Library, 5701 Marina Drive, in Holmes Beach, 2 p.m.

Friends of the Pelicans founder outlines hazards to brown pelicans

Fishing line entanglements are the number one cause of death for brown pelicans.

BY LESLIE LAKE SUN REPORTER | llake@amisun.com

HOLMES BEACH – More

than 70 people attended a Jan. 22 presentation by Friends of the Pelicans Inc. founder Jeanette Edwards.

The presentation was given at the Island Branch Library and those who attended learned about the characteristics of, and the perils to, brown pelicans.

Edwards described the changing appearance of brown pelicans during their lifetime.

“A juvenile pelican is full-sized when they leave the nest. They are all gray with very white bellies and they stay like this for the first few years,” she said. “An adult pelican has a silver body, a very black belly, a white head and a white neck; and the interesting thing is, when they are ready to mate the top of their head turns yellow. After they mate,

the top of their head goes back to white and they get a brown neck. It’s kind of like a wedding ring.”

Brown pelicans hover up to 100 feet in the air and their wingspan is eight feet.

“As their wing feathers change color, when folded in they make a perfect heart,” Edwards said.

“A healthy pelican weighs between four to six pounds, but the ones that we rescue are more like two to three pounds,” she said. “They’re very underweight and often dehydrated.”

One of the perils to the brown pelican is fish carcasses found at

fishing piers and boat ramps.

“Their bills act like a cast net as they gather the tiny bait fish into their mouth and they drain all the water out so they can swallow the meal whole,” Edwards said. “Unfortunately, because they have a large bill, they can eat large fish. The carcasses and large fish get lodged in their throat. They can’t get them down and they end up starving to death. If they manage to get a small part down, then often it punctures their stomach and they can die.”

She noted it’s illegal to throw carcasses and fish to pelicans, but

that law is rarely enforced.

“That’s something we want to get working on – trying to get a law that says it’s illegal to throw carcasses in the water. Hopefully, that can help with the problem,” Edwards said.

Pelicans can live for 40 years, but Edwards said 30% of them won’t survive their first year.

“The reason is fishing line entanglements are the number one cause of death of brown pelicans,” she said. “They make their homes in the rookeries in the islands along the coast of Florida. They have a specific home and will try to go back, even when they’re tangled up in line or dragging a fishing pole.”

She said bait is most abundant at fishing piers, which is where most entanglements in fishing line happen.

“The longest and highest fishing piers in the country are the Sunshine Skyway fishing piers,” Edwards said. “Every day, pelicans are hooked and entangled at both the north and south pier. We’ve estimated that 10 pelicans a day are hooked.”

Edwards showed videos of pelicans she and volunteers have rescued at Miguel Bay, near the south Skyway fishing pier.

“After being entangled at the fishing pier, brown pelicans go home to their rookeries. This is a sight most people never see, and what we hope to prevent is the way they suffer and die alone and struggling,” she said.

Edwards’ presentation was part of the Friends of the Island Library “Lecture and Travel Series” that takes place each Thursday afternoon through February. For more information about pelicans, visit friendsofthepelicans.org.

Seafood and music festival provides weekend fun

The weekend festival took place along the Coquina Beach shoreline.

BY LANCE ROY SUN CORRESPONDENT

BRADENTON BEACH – The three-day Coquina Beach Seafood & Music Festival kicked off Friday evening, Jan. 23, at the south end of Coquina Beach in Bradenton Beach.

Attending residents and visitors sampled fresh-cooked seafood from vendors serving shrimp, crab, lobster, oysters and other coastal favorites.

Live music filled the temporary festival grounds throughout the weekend, with a rotating lineup of bands performing beach-inspired grooves, classic rock, island rhythms, soulful jams and Cajuninfluenced sounds.

Performing as Prodigal Sons, Dana Lawrence, Tom McNulty and Johnny Mac opened the festival Friday night, performing a mix of Americana, Cajun, folk and Irish-inspired tunes. Additional musical performances by Westbound and Down, Twinkle & Rock Soul Radio and others entertained the festival attendees.

Seafood was the focal point of the event, with vendors offering a wide range of dishes including Cajun-fried alligator, coconut shrimp, grouper, red Argentine shrimp and lobster-based specialties. Many meals were prepared on-site, giving guests the opportunity to watch as their food was cooked fresh.

Sandy Heisler, a seasonal resident from Ohio, praised the selection, saying, “Everything is awesome.”

Several attendees echoed similar sentiments, noting the variety of menu options available.

Atlantic City, New Jersey-based Vagabond Kitchen & Tap House owner Tom Harris has been featured on the Food Network's “Diners, Drive-ins, & Dives” television show. As a festival vendor, he featured his three-way sandwich combo and his crab cake sandwiches.

Before reaching the food, drink and music areas, visitors passed through rows of arts and crafts booths featuring handmade artwork, clothing, jewelry and specialty items that included Caribbean-inspired spirits.

At the Island Dream Waves booth, Corpus Christi, Texas, resident Ryan Engelke showcased epoxy artwork, home goods and décor designed with a coastal theme. The festival offered a relaxed, familyfriendly atmosphere, with many guests setting up beach chairs near the music stage or finding shaded spots to enjoy their meals. The beachfront location allowed visitors to enjoy views of the Gulf while attending the event.

Taking place on Saturday and Sunday too, the festival provided attendees with a weekend of food, music and community gathering at a scenic beachfront park.

Clean Water Committee’s reusable bags arrive

The Clean Water Ad Hoc Committee’s “Hard Pass on Plastics” reusable bags have been distributed to various locations in Holmes Beach, Anna Maria and Longboat Key. Some of the bags also reference Anna Maria Island and those intended for Longboat Key and beyond do not. Funded by the city of Holmes Beach for approximately $5,000, the reusable bags are part of the Clean Water Committee’s ongoing efforts to protect and enhance the Island’s water quality – and removing plastic bags from the natural waterways and canals is part of those efforts. Designed for shopping and other uses, the free reusable bags are now available at Holmes Beach City Hall, the Anna Maria Island Chamber of Commerce office in Holmes Beach and the Anna Maria Island Historical Museum in Anna Maria. Clean Water Committee member Scott MacGregor distributed the free bags during the Jan. 20 Anna Maria Community Farmers Market held at the Roser Church property in Anna Maria and he planned to be there again on Tuesday, Jan. 27. If your business, vacation rental management company or organization

Some

the

would like to help distribute the reusable bags, please contact the Holmes Beach city clerk’s office at 941-708-5800.

LAWSUIT: StayTerra Vacations files lawsuit against Kiri Stewart, Magnolia Cottages

Developer Shawn Kaleta is not named as a defendant, but he’s mentioned in the lawsuit and he’s listed with the Florida Division of Corporations as the manager of five of the 10 property-specific LLCs named as defendants in the lawsuit.

The lawsuit complaint says the plaintiffs, StayTerra, seek “equitable relief to enforce their agreements with the defendant SellerKS Property Companies (Stewart and the named LLCs), and to recover damages to compensate them for the substantial losses they have already incurred as a result of the defendants’ intentional and material breaches of their contractual obligations.”

“By reason of the deceptive and unfair trade practices employed by defendants Stewart and Magnolia Cottages, plaintiffs have suffered damages in excess of $5 million,” the complaint alleges.

“The founders and owners of the Prime Business who bound the defendant, Seller-KS Property Companies, to the Master PMA (Property Management Agreement) were Shawn T. Kaleta and Roman Eckert, the ‘Founders and Owners’. One of the founders and owners of Prime Business is defendant Stewart’s romantic partner and the father of her children,” the complaint says.

“Plaintiffs respectfully requests this court enter judgement in favor of plaintiffs against defendants, award plaintiffs compensable damages in an amount to be proved at trial, but an amount not less than $5 million, in addition to a temporary restraining order, preliminary injunction and permanent injunction prohibiting the defendants from continuing to engage in unfair and deceptive trade practices,” the complaint says.

The case is assigned to Circuit Court Judge Charles Sniffen.

StayTerra is represented by the Sarasota-based Williams Parker Harrison Dietz & Getzen law firm and the New York City-based Paduano & Weintraub law firm.

THE LAWSUIT

According to the lawsuit complaint, GSP is an investment firm founded in or around 2013 with assets under management of more than $3.5 billion.

“Garnett Stations Partners (GSP), through plaintiff, StayTerra and GSP Prime Holdings, paid approximately $105 million to acquire the outstanding equity interests in Prime and other companies comprising a vacation rental management business,” the complaint says.

“In or around late 2023, GSP identified a potential opportunity in the large, growing and highly fragmented vacation rental management industry. Eventually, in or around January 2024, GSP received an introduction to a prominent real estate developer in Southwest Florida who had founded and built a vacation rental management business comprised of six brands (AMI Locals, Anna Maria Island

FROM PAGE 1 SEE LAWSUIT, PAGE 23

The Wailers bring reggae joy and harmony to Anna Maria

The outdoor concert featured a bounty of well-known and well-loved reggae songs.

BY JOE HENDRICKS

SUN REPORTER | jhendricks@amisun.com

ANNA MARIA – Making a return engagement and performing iconic songs made famous by Bob Marley and The Wailers, the current version of The Wailers brought their reggae and ska vibrations and bliss to The Center of Anna Maria Island.

Graced with beautiful weather, The Wailers’ outdoor concert on Saturday, Jan. 24, was much warmer than their chilly show in 2025.

The Wailers’ lineup for Saturday’s show featured multi-talented bandleader Aston Barrett Jr. on drums, although he usually plays bass. Barrett Jr. is the son of Bob Marley and the Wailers’ late bassist and bandleader, Aston Barrett.

Saturday’s lineup also featured Wendel “Junior Jazz” Ferraro on lead vocals and guitar, Owen “Dreadie” Reid on bass, Ricky Walters on lead guitar, Miguel “Scooby” Anderson on keyboards and backing singers Andrea Sawyers and Shannalee Fletcher

Just after 8:30 p.m., The Wailers’ ‘Roots, Rock, Reggae’ show kicked off with “Lively Up Yourself” and the next 90-minutes or so provided an endless string of well-known reggae classics that included “Is This Love,” “No Woman, No Cry,” “Stir it Up,” “Waiting in Vain” and “I Shot the Sherrif,” with many in the crowd dancing and singing along throughout out the show.

After a crowd-pleasing version of “Three Little Birds,” Ferraro said, “It’s gonna be alright.”

Before launching into “Jamming,” Ferraro said, “This is your party song right here.”

During the show, Barrett Jr., a fantastic drummer, sang lead vocals on one song. Ferraro also noted Barrett Jr. played the role of his father, Aston Barrett, in the 2024 biopic movie, “Bob Marley: One Love.”

Before playing “Get Up, Stand Up,” Ferraro used the

Jamaican, Rastafarian word, “Irie” when he said, “How are you feeling out there? That sounds like one Irie set of people – it means when you’re feeling so good that nothing can change that vibe.”

He then welcomed his brother Craig to the stage to play drums on a few songs.

The stellar setlist also included “Exodus,” “One Love” and more.

The encore set began with Ferraro and Reid performing “Redemption Song” as a duo, followed by full-band versions of “Buffalo Soldier” and the show-ending “Could You Be Loved”

Performing solo, singer/ songwriter Dylan Cotrone began the evening with a well-received opening set of his original songs.

Saturday’s concert was sponsored by the Sandbar restaurant, Cedar Cove Resort and the Bradenton Area Convention and Visitors Bureau. The concert proceeds will benefit The Center’s youth programs.

The Atlanta Rhythm Section will perform at The Center on Saturday, Feb. 14, and John Oates & The Good Road Band will perform at The Center on Sunday, March 1. For tickets and more information, visit www. centerami.org/concerts.

Beach cabana rental regulations almost finished

The revised ordinance will be presented for final adoption in February.

BY JOE HENDRICKS SUN CORRESPONDENT | jhendricks@amisun.com

ANNA MARIA – The mayor and city commissioners are one step closer to the final adoption of a new parks and recreation ordinance that will establish new regulations for beach cabana and tent rentals.

On Thursday, Jan. 22, the mayor and commissioners were presented with the first reading of a proposed city ordinance that was previously presented in draft form during a Jan. 5 city commission work session.

Beach cabana rentals and all other commercial activities are currently prohibited in the city’s coastal con-

servation zones and recreation open space zones that encompass most of the public beaches in Anna Maria

During the Jan. 5 work session, the commission tentatively agreed to allow regulated beach tent and beach cabana rentals only in the recreation open space zone known as Gulf Front Park, which extends from Oak Avenue to Magnolia Avenue and does not include the public beach areas in front of the Sandbar restaurant

During the Jan. 22 meeting, the commission agreed to maintain the proposed 13-foot by 13-foot (169 square feet) total coverage area for a single tent or cabana, whether rented or privately owned.

The commission decided to revise the proposed ordinance says, “No more than two commercially rented cabanas may be placed within 50 linear feet of each other, measured in any direction.”

When providing public input on Jan. 22, Tiffany Adell, from Beach Suites AMI, told commissioners their 6.5 feet by 6.5 feet tents and are much smaller than the 10-by-10 or 13-by-13 cabanas and tents often used by other rental companies. Adell said suggested allowing more smaller tents to be located in the same 338 square feet space to be allowed for two larger sideby-side rented tents. That change will be included in the revised ordinance presented for final adoption in February.

The Secret

veryone is looking for the secret. It’s the secret to getting that perfect grip on the club while moving the arms, legs and torso in just the right way to send a small white ball to a distant cup. Or maybe you’re an angler who wants to find the secret on how to move a fly rod in just the right way to send a hook cloaked in feathers, tinsel and fur to an unsuspecting and vulnerable fish.

Well, after a lifetime of fishing, I think I can answer that question with a short leap of faith: There is no secret.

We actually learned the lesson early in life with the shared experience of learning to ride a bike! In

neuroscience it’s referred to as Hebb’s Rule (Hebbian theory), which states that neurons that fire together, wire together – and that’s how we build habits, good and bad.

That’s why it’s important to learn the “physics” of the golf swing, or the fly cast, and then practice. If there is a “secret,” it’s that repetition, not the time spent practicing, is the key.

The basic casting stroke consists of the rod being held in the dominant hand at the base of the fingers with the thumb on top of the cork. The stroke is a combination of moves of the wrist, the forearm and the upper arm. In the “ready” position with the thumb on the cork, the wrist is straight and the butt of the rod is at a 45-degree angle to the forearm. The wrist travels from this “straight” position to a 45-degree down angle and then returns to straight position. The forearm and the upper arm complete the motion.

There are five basic movements that are considered essential:

1.) There must be a pause at the end of each casting stroke, which varies in duration with the amount of line beyond the rod tip. This allows the line to straighten for the next cast and load the rod fully. It’s key that you watch your back cast to perfect your timing.

2.) Slack line should be kept to an absolute minimum. Slack line prevents the rod from loading and applying the proper power to the cast. The most common mistake that creates slack line happens when the rod is started too high, forming a belly in the line between the rod tip and the water. To prevent this, start your cast with the rod tip pointing at or in the water.

3.) To form the most efficient, least air-resistant loops, and to direct the energy of the cast toward the target, the rod tip must move in a relatively straight line. Practice tracing a horizontal line, like a roof eve.

4.) The length of the casting stroke must vary with the amount of line past the rod tip.

If you are making a short cast, there is only a small amount of line needed. As the length of line increases, the stroke must be increased to load the rod.

5.) Power must be applied in the proper amount at the proper place in the stroke. In general, the power is applied slowly at first, gradually increasing to a peak at the end of the stroke. There should be a crisp stop at the end of the stroke, forcing the rod to come out of its bend. This is referred to as the “speed-up and stop.”

Like riding a bike, playing

tennis or golfing, the only way to master fly casting is to practice on a regular basis. Create a practice schedule you can stick to. Start with short practice sessions on a regular basis to build good habits. We never get as much time on the water as we want and often work long hours for the opportunity to take that special trip to the Bahamas, Argentina or Montana. Spending time to master fly casting will pay dividends when you connect with that fish of a lifetime, occasioned by a smooth cast and a perfectly placed fly.

CENTER SCOREBOARD

8-11 ALL GIRLS FLAG FOOTBALL (WEEK 2)

Print Wizards 24 (1-0-1)

Sato Real Estate 24 (0-1-1)

Emily Moss Designs 24 (2-0-0) Poppo’s Taqueria 6 (0-2-0)

8-10 FLAG FOOTBALL (WEEK 2)

Gulfster.com 19 (1-1-0)

Grooms Motors & Automotive 0 (0-1-0)

Adrian Griffin Interiors 31 (2-0-0)

Solid Rock Construction 14 (0-2-0)

Shady Lady Horticultural Services 25 (2-0-0) USA Fence 12 (1-1-0)

11-13 FLAG FOOTBALL (WEEK 2)

82 West Home Inspections 48 (2-0-0)

Reed Physical Therapy & Fitness 24 (0-2-0)

USA Fence 32 (2-0-0)

Sato Real Estate 22 (0-2-0)

Impact Florida Windows 37 (2-0-0)

Cloud Pest Control 0 (0-2-0)

Slim’s Place 27 (2-0-0) G.I. Bins 19 (0-2-0)

14-17 FLAG FOOTBALL (WEEK 2)

Moss Builders 12 (1-0-0)

Better on Bikes 0 (0-2-0)

Swordfish Grill 34 (2-0-0)

Solid Rock Construction (1-1-0)

MI-Box 25 (1-1-0) Wings ‘N Things 18 (1-1-0)

ADULT FLAG FOOTBALL (WEEK 1)

Coaster Continent 39 (1-0-0)

Edible Cookie Dough Cafe 30 (0-1-0)

The Fish Guy Aquarium Services 51 (1-0-0) Moss Air 21 (0-1-0)

Reel Coastal Properties 35 (1-0-0)

Slim’s Place 26 (0-1-0)

Sandbar 26 (1-0-0)

Beach House Real Estate 19 (0-1-0)

Salty Printing 51 (1-0-0)

Solid Rock Construction 40 (0-1-0)

ADULT 35+ SOCCER (WEEK 2)

MG Construction 3 (1-0-0)

Emily Moss Designs 2 (0-2-0)

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

Bubble Binz 5 (1-0-1)

ADULT INDOOR SOCCER (WEEK 2)

Sato Real

Estate 7 (1-0-1)

Salty Printing 7 (0-1-1)

Pool America 14 (1-0-0)

Solid Rock Construction 11(1-1-0)

KEY ROYALE GOLF CLUB

SCOREBOARD

MONDAY, JAN. 19 - MODIFIED STABLEFORD & SKINS GAME

First Place - Blake Ress, +2 Second Place - Dave DuVernay, Buddy Foy, Marty Hicks tied, +1 Skins - Brian Comer, holes # 6 & 7, Marty Hicks, hole # 4

WEDNESDAY, JAN. 21WOMEN'S PRESIDENT CUP TOURNAMENT - STABLEFORD POINTS

First Place - Rene Chapman, 18

Livedoti wins fourth in a row

During play at Anna Maria Horseshoes on Wednesday, Jan. 21, Bob Hawks, left, and Dom Livedoti, right, ended up in the winner's circle after posting the only 3-0 record during pool play. On Saturday, the 24th, three teams met in a playoff after each went 3-0, with the bye going to Adin Shank and Bob Baker while Neil Hennessy and Livedoti won the semi-final 21-13, beating Bob Palmer and Billy Silver. In the final, Hennessy and Livedoti squeaked out a 21-19 victory over Shank and Baker and were crowned champs for the day, giving Livedoti his fourth win in a row. Also on Saturday, four regular players of AMI Horseshoes traveled to Clearwater to participate in the state doubles team tournament. Hawks, Gersey Fernandes, Bob Lee and John Poccynek took second place in the tournament.

Second Place - Lori Waggoner, 17

Third Place - Julia Fay tied Jana Samuels, 15

THURSDAY, JAN. 22SCRAMBLE/SHAMBLE COMBINATION PAR 52

First Place Team - Mike Cusato, Julia Fay, Tim Friesen, John Kolojeski, 49

Second Place Team - Jim Bailey, Rich Salzburg, Greg Shorten tied Brian Comer, Mike Clements, Tom Nelson, 50

REAL ESTATE

A flipper is more than a pet dolphin

If you love dolphins, all you have to do is walk along any beach on Anna Maria Island and you’re sure to see them. But these are not the “flippers” we’re talking about today. Today, we’re talking about house flippers who may not be quite as friendly.

Call it “get rich quick” or call it “house flipping,” the goal is to buy low, invest very low sums of money to clean and renovate and sell high. If you’re lucky enough to do that consistently, you’re a flipper. It’s certainly not impossible to become a full-time flipper. In 2024, flipping accounted for 7.6% of all single-family and condo sales nationwide. Since then, there has been a decline and flippers are faced with the same lack of inventory as conventional buyers.

Castles in the Sand

not being able to flip at a price that makes sense and ends up with a reasonable profit. Now, the poor flipper has to not sell and then rent the property, which presents an entirely different set of problems, primarily reducing any potential profit.

you’re near the water, and that should be your primary goal. Unfortunately, because of last year’s storms, there have been a lot of houses that were damaged or flooded. I would laser focus on one of those if they haven’t already been snapped up.

Securing financing is next. Traditional lenders frequently hesitate to finance investment properties. Flippers love cash or short-term financing and sellers love prequalifications.

flipper, you can start immediately. But you do need to comply with all state property sales laws. Do a thorough title search, and even though you’re experienced, you may still need the advice of an engineer or home inspector.

The amount of risk and uncertainty in the flipping business can range from the glory at the top to the failure at the bottom of a real estate transaction.

The worst-case scenario for a flipper is

The trick is to identify a home with “good bones” and bad hygiene. Trashing out and cleaning may not be glamorous, but it does the trick. Add a coat of soft gray paint and you’ll be surprised how good the white appliances look when the grime is gone. So how do you start? Research the market and understand local trends, property values and demand. Wherever you are within the distribution of this newspaper,

In the flipper’s bible, if there is such a thing, you’ll see something called (ARV), which stands for After Repair Value. This is the potential market value after renovations. The rule is that you should pay no more than 70% of the ARV, minus the estimated repair costs to ensure a sufficient profit margin.

Finally, just like any seller, price competitively and market effectively, preferably working with an experienced local real estate agent.

Since you don’t need a license to be a

After last year, anyone with ownership of a property should have insurance – even if you plan on flipping quickly. If you’re lucky enough to make a profit, you will be subject to capital gains taxes since the government doesn’t give investors any capital gains relief. Forming an LLC is not required but is recommended to protect your personal assets from lawsuits that may arise on your investment property.

In the less sophisticated days of television, there was a show called “Flipper”. Flipper became the pet of two young boys who had adventures that kids on Anna Maria Island could only imagine. Flipping houses is not nearly as charming as Flipper the dolphin, but it could be lucrative if done right.

Initiative connects Cortez’s working waterfront, Sarasota Bay

“It Takes a Village” initiative will be introduced on Jan. 31 and the public is welcome.

BY LESLIE LAKE SUN REPORTER | llake@amisun.com

CORTEZ – The Cortez Village Historical Society (CVHS), in partnership with the Sarasota Bay Estuary Program (SBEP) and support from the Florida Maritime Museum, is launching a community education initiative on Saturday, Jan. 31.

The collaborative project is titled “It Takes a Village,” and it highlights the connection between a healthy estuary, sustainable seafood and Cortez’s historic working waterfront.

“Our grant from the Sarasota Bay Estuary Program (SBEP) has made it possible for us to move forward with our mission of preserving Cortez by focusing on maintaining a healthy estuary – a key element of our village’s commercial fishing tradition,” CVHS President Cindy Rodgers said. “This incredible estuary has been a food source for humans for thousands of years and the backbone of the Cortez economy for over a century. Now

we will connect thousands of ‘boat to table’ seafood customers, village residents and visitors with an opportunity to help in large and small ways.”

The educational initiative will feature bilingual signage, restaurant table cards, walking guides, a new web page and public events – all designed to encourage residents and visitors to take actions that will protect Sarasota Bay.

The initiative will be introduced during the “Cortez: Coffee, Culture & Conservation” event taking place Saturday, Jan. 31, from 10 a.m. to noon at the Cortez Cultural Center at 11655 Cortez Road W.

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OBITUARIES

Craig Fox Moore, a cherished soul known for his handy skills, sharp wit and brilliant intellect, departed from this world on Dec. 20, 2025, at the age of 67. Born on Aug. 21, 1957, in Bra denton, Florida, Craig's journey through life was one marked by dedication, service and an unwavering commitment to the U.S. Constitution.

After spending his formative years in Bradenton, Craig went on to earn a bachelor’s degree that would serve as the foundation for a distinguished career. His knowledge and skills propelled him into a rewarding role as an airline mechanic for the Air Force, where he not only contributed to the safety and security of countless flights but also to the lives of those he worked with.

Beyond his professional achievements, Craig was deeply involved

INITIATIVE:

with veteran affairs. His leadership as the commander of the VFW (Veterans of Foreign Wars) in Washington, D.C., showcased his enduring loyalty to his fellow servicemen and women. Moreover, his active membership in the American Legion of Gainesboro reflected his continuous efforts to better the lives of veterans and their families.

Craig's personal life was filled with the love and companionship of family. He is survived by his beloved wife, Cynthia Moore, of Whitleyville, Tennessee; his daughter, Cyleigh Moore, of Oregon; his brother, Captain Scott Moore, of Florida; and his sisters, Holly Ann Cory, of Granville, Tennessee, and Sheryl Jean Moore, of Whitleyville, Tennessee.

He is preceded in death by his parents, Albert Rayfield Moore and Janette Fox Moore; brothers, Bruce Moore and David Moore; and sister, Candy Woods

Those fortunate enough to have known Craig will remember him as a man who could fix just about anything, who always had a joke at the ready to lighten the mood, and who could engage in thoughtful conversation on a myriad of subjects. His presence was a source

of joy and inspiration and his absence will be deeply felt by his family, friends and the communities he so passionately served.

Craig's final days were spent in Whitleyville, surrounded by the rolling hills and tranquil beauty that he had come to love. It is here, amid the quiet whispers of the wind through the trees, that his legacy will continue to live on in the memories of those he touched.

As we bid farewell to Craig Fox Moore, we celebrate a life lived to its fullest. A life of service, laughter and wisdom. His story is not one of an end, but one of enduring influence and a narrative that will continue to guide and inspire for generations to come.

Craig's memory will be cherished, his contributions honored and his life celebrated as the embodiment of a true American hero.

The family has chosen cremation and no services are scheduled at this time.

Anderson Upper Cumberland Funeral Home is in charge of arrangements (931-268-1550).

To plant a beautiful memorial tree in memory of Craig, please visit https://tree-tc.tributestore. com/memorial-tree.

connects Cortez’s working waterfront, Sarasota Bay

FROM PAGE 17

The event will be hosted by SBEP, CVHS, Florida Institute for Saltwater Heritage (FISH) and Florida Sea Grant/UF/IFAS Extension.

The program will include a discussion of the “It Takes a Village” initiative and its goals, followed by a guided tour of the restored FISH Preserve and its new trails and bridges. The enhancements at the 98-acre coastal preserve

were made possible by a grant from the Charles and Margery Barancik Foundation.

Attendees will also be invited to take a self-guided tour of Cortez using the new map that features places of interest, key environmental features and the village’s ‘boat-to-table’ restaurants and markets.

“The Cortez community is an important partner for SBEP. Residents deeply care about the health and cultural significance of

their local environment; and their new educational initiative, 'It Takes a Village,' along with their stewardship of the FISH Preserve, exemplifies that commitment,” said Megan Barry, public outreach manager for the Sarasota Bay Estuary Program.

The Jan. 31 coffee event is free and open to the public, but registration is required. Visit sarasotabay.org/events to learn more and register.

PORT: Lawmakers react to proposed terminal

groups about the potential impact of a cruise port.

purpose of the acquisition is to protect its wetlands, wildlife habitat and the natural character of the property in perpetuity,” the Knott-Cowen Cruise website says of the property owned by its subsidiary entity, Rattlesnake Key Preservation Company LLC

MORE REACTION

Holmes Beach resident and charter fishing captain Scott Moore said, “We need Manatee County to buy that Rattlesnake Key property and the Knott-Cowen property too. And the other counties, Hillsborough and Pinellas, need to help because they use that land and that estuary too. We also need the state to help, and we need to revisit this.”

Manatee County Commission Chair Tal Siddique represents District 3, which includes Anna Maria Island. He’s now gathering information from environmental

“I’ve reached out to both Sarasota Bay Estuary Program and Tampa Bay Estuary Program to get some data-driven input on what the environmental impact could be. There will be environmental impact,” Siddique said.

He said his position is “neutral” on the proposed cruise ship port.

“Right now, it’s just in the preapplication stages,” he said.

Siddique characterized the economic benefit of the port as “incalculable.”

“I know in my district, many businesses are struggling,” he said. Siddique also addressed the withdrawal of HB 4073.

“I’m on the board of Port Manatee and I want to stress, this (proposed cruise port) is distinct from that bill (HB 4073),” Siddique said.

A change.org petition, “Stop the Proposed Cruise Ship Port,” has gathered nearly 12,000 signatures.

FUN IN THE SUN

CLASSIFIEDS

ANNOUNCEMENTS

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

PANCAKE BREAKFAST at Roser Church; all you can eat, Saturday January 31st 8:30 am - 11 am

COMMERCIAL SALES, RENT & LEASE

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

EMPLOYMENT

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POOL SERVICES

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BUSINESS & SERVICE DIRECTORY

LAWSUIT: StayTerra Vacations files lawsuit against Kiri Stewart, Magnolia Cottages

FROM PAGE 11

Accommodations, Anna Maria Vacations, Siesta Key Luxury Property Rentals, Lido Key Vacations and Tropical Sands Vacations), referred to herein as the ‘Prime Business,’” the complaint says.

At the time, Prime Business managed approximately 1,110 vacation rental properties, including approximately 130 properties that were indirectly owned or controlled by the founders of Prime Business through the defendant, Seller-KS Property Companies and certain other LLCs, according to the complaint.

“The founder and owners of the Prime Business recognized that they needed liquidity for their real estate development business and also that GSP was an ideal partner to assist with scaling the Prime Business into a national player in the vacation rental management industry,” the complaint says.

On or around Sept. 18, 2024, GSP, through StayTerra, closed on a transaction with the founders, owners and certain other seller entities to acquire a majority stake in Prime Business.

“The deal was structured through an Equity Purchase Agreement (EPA) pursuant to which plaintiff StayTerra acquired all of the equity interests in Prime and certain other companies comprising Prime Business for a purchase price of approximately $105 million – consisting of approximately

$70 million cash and approximately $35 million in rollover equity in GSP Prime Holdings, the ultimate parent company that owns StayTerra,” the complaint says.

Pursuant to conditions of the EPA, the owners/founders of Prime Business agreed they would not do the following for a period of five years: Compete with Prime Business (Stayterra) in any way; recruit or hire any employee, service provider or contractor of the Prime Business to leave or cease providing service; or contract with any suppliers of Prime Business, the complaint says.

“As a condition to the closing of the transaction, the founders and owners of the Prime Business delivered a Master Property and Rental and Management Agreement,” the complaint says regarding 10 properties on Anna Maria Island or in Sarasota or Bradenton.

The LLCs for those 10 properties are listed as defendants. The Florida Division of Corporations lists Stewart as the manager of five of the named LLCs and Kaleta as the manager of the other five.

The Najmy Thompson law firm is named as the registered agent for all 10 property-specific LLCs named as defendants.

Stewart is listed as the manager and registered agent for Magnolia Cottages LLC.

According to the complaint, the founders and owners of Prime Busi-

ness granted Prime the exclusive right to collect management fees for the properties for a minimum of seven years.

“Yet less than 13 months after pocketing the consideration comprised of approximately $105 million of cash and rollover equity, the defendants embarked on a deliberate, bad faith scheme to eviscerate the benefit of the bargain plaintiff’s struck by facilitating purported transfers of the founders’ membership interest in the Seller-KS Property Companies that are subject to the Master PMA to defendant Magnolia Cottages, which is ostensibly owned and controlled by defendant Stewart,” the complaint alleges.

The complaint alleges that in each of the transfer agreements, the founders and owners of the Prime Business, “falsely represented they had the full power to transfer their interests in the Seller-KS Property Companies subject to the Master PMA without obtaining the consent or approval of any other person.”

On Oct. 7, 2025, Stewart and Magnolia Cottages received a ceaseand-desist letter from the plaintiffs.

“They were undeterred by that letter and have continued to actively engage in their scheme,” according to the lawsuit.

“Defendants Stewart and Magnolia Cottages have listed properties that are owned or controlled by the founders of the Prime Business and subject to the Master PMA on Airbnb, VRBO

and other booking platforms at prices that are lower than the prices offered by plaintiff Prime,’ the lawsuit alleges.

STEWART RESPONDS

On Monday, Jan. 26, Stewart provided The Sun with a written statement.

“We will vigorously and successfully defend against these claims. The allegations made by Prime are false, misleading and without merit. Prime is a large corporate entity attempting to bully us as homeowners and small property operators by unlawfully seeking control of properties that we own outright,” Stewart stated.

“Prime previously mismanaged these properties, and we exercised our lawful right as owners to resume control. At no time did we sign away ownership rights or grant Prime authority to possess or control our homes,” Stewart stated.

“Had Prime successfully managed the properties and generated acceptable revenue, we would not have removed them from management. Since self-managing, we have significantly outperformed Prime’s results” Stewart stated.

“This lawsuit is a transparent and failed attempt by a Wall Street-backed private equity firm to use the court system to pressure and exploit a small, local business rather than accept responsibility for its own mismanagement,” Stewart stated.