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VOL 24 No. 19

January 3, 2024

New financial disclosure law impacting AMI governments Florida’s expanded financial disclosure requirements prompt resignations and withdrawals locally and statewide. BY JOE HENDRICKS SUN CORRESPONDENT | jhendricks@amisun.com

ANNA MARIA ISLAND – Bradenton Beach City Commissioner Jake Spooner has resigned because of the state’s expanded Form 6 financial disclosure requirements that now apply to all Florida mayors and city commissioners holding office as of Jan. 1. Spooner is one of many city commissioners in Florida who recently resigned because of the new law and the impacts are also being felt in Anna Maria and Longboat Key. The Form 6 financial disclosure requirements have long applied to elected state, county and city officials in some of Florida’s larger cities. The Florida Legislature and Gov. Ron DeSantis expanded the disclosure requirements earlier this year when creating the new state law that now requires elected city officials to annually file a Form 6 disclosure form.

Happy New Year from The Sun

CINDY LANE | SUN

The sun has set on 2023, but the New Year promises an abundance of nature's delights on Anna Maria Island.

SEE DISCLOSURE, PAGE 8

Titsworth, Stevely share The Sun’s 2023 Person of the Year honors

Judy Titsworth defends city’s home rule Holmes Beach Mayor Judy Titsworth leads the fight against a parking garage at Manatee Beach and against consolidation of the Island’s cities. BY KRISTIN SWAIN SUN STAFF WRITER | kswain@amisun.com

HOLMES BEACH – Mayor Judy Holmes Titsworth has consistently defended the city against Manatee County officials and Florida legislators who propose to chip away Titsworth at home rule, particularly on the parking garage and consolidation issues that have made headlines over the past several months. For her determination and hard

work, the Anna Maria Island Sun names Titsworth as one of its two 2023 Persons of the Year. “Naming Mayor Judy your Person of the Year is a no-brainer,” Holmes Beach Commissioner Greg Kerchner said. “Especially in this tough political environment, she does so much for this city, takes so much grief and gets so little credit that I’m thrilled to see her receive this award. No one deserves it more. Her family’s history with Holmes Beach may be obvious but her dedication to improving our waters, wetlands and environment is just as important. It’s going to be really tough finding another mayor, let alone a city manager who will be as dedicated, accomplish as much or work as hard for so little compensation.”

SEE TITSWORTH, PAGE 9

John Stevely a force for nature Stevely left a lasting mark on environmental preservation in Cortez. BY LESLIE LAKE SUN CORRESPONDENT | llake@amisun.com

CORTEZ - Habitat preservation is thriving in Cortez due in large part to the commitment of the late John Stevely. A founding member of the Florida Institute Stevely for Saltwater Heritage (FISH) and an early advocate for the FISH Preserve, the Anna Maria Island Sun names Stevely as one of its two 2023 Persons of the Year. “When we lost John, FISH and

MANGROVE removal completed before water protection barrier installed. Page 25

Anna Maria Island, Florida

The Island’s award-winning weekly newspaper

the village not only lost a long-time board member, but a good friend and an advocate for FISH, the preserve and the village,” FISH Treasurer Jane von Hahmann said. “He was a founding member of FISH and instrumental in the initial purchase of the preserve property.” Stevely passed away on May 27, 2022 at the age of 72 while walking with his wife, Dr. Theresa Bert, at Robinson Preserve. His work was recognized at the newly-completed 98-acre FISH Preserve ribboncutting ceremony on Nov. 3. “There’s one person that could not be with us today,” von Hahmann said at the FISH Preserve dedication. “This is a gentleman who was part of the original purchase of this program, who was part of the original

SEE STEVELY, PAGE 11

PENDING DEMOLITION of historic

buildings questioned at hotel project. 4 MUSIC LISTENING ROOM opening in

Anna Maria. 5

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2 THE SUN

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JANUARY 3, 2024

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THE SUN

Mangroves removed before protective barrier installed A barrier designed to keep sediment from polluting the water during mangrove removal was installed several weeks after the fact at 111 Gull Drive. BY LESLIE LAKE SUN CORRESPONDENT | llake@amisun.com

ANNA MARIA – More than three weeks after the removal of mangroves at 111 Gull Drive, a required protective water barrier was placed at the site, according to neighbors. The Florida Department of Environmental Protection (FDEP) noted the absence of the barrier in its investigation of the mangrove removal on Dec. 13. FDEP’s Heather McClurg emailed others in the agency saying in part, “After viewing the photos though (of the property at 111 Gull Drive), I did note that they do not have proper BMP’s deployed and wanted to forward this over to compliance for review.” A BMP (Best Management Practice) is a method used to prevent or

RONNIE LETO | SUBMITTED

A protective water barrier was placed on the property under construction at 111 Gull Drive more than three weeks after mangrove removal. control stormwater runoff and the discharge of pollutants, including sediment, into local waterbodies, according to the Environmental Protection Agency. The mangroves at 111 Gull Drive, a canal-front home under construction, were removed in early December, according to a com-

plaint received by the city, which posted a stop work order on Dec. 6. Neighbors complained again on Dec. 13 that more mangroves were removed. Federal, state and local officials are investigating. The protective material was installed on Dec. 28, according

to Ronnie Leto, a neighbor with a view of the property. On The Sun Facebook page, Jane Ingalls posted an aerial photo of the property at 111 Gull Drive showing the mangroves prior to their removal. In that photo, lush mangroves were present behind the canal front home. A second photo posted by Ingalls shows what she called a side view of the former mangroves at 111 Gull Drive in August. No mangroves remain at the property. The FDEP previously issued a seawall permit exemption for a limited amount of mangrove removal to contractor Mason Martin LLC, but FDEP spokesperson Brian Humphreys said on Dec. 22 that the agency was investigating complaints about excessive mangrove removal and planned a site visit. It was reported on Dec. 23 to The Sun by a neighbor that FDEP investigators conducted a site visit at the property. That visit has been unconfirmed by FDEP. The Sun has requested a followup report from the agency, but it was not received by press time.

4 THE SUN

ISLAND NEWS

Visit our website, www.amisun.com. Scan this code with your smartphone to go there.

JANUARY 3, 2024

Demolition in progress at proposed hotel site Demolition permit applications are on file for 105 and 117 Bridge St. The Magnolia at 105 Bridge St. is considered historic by some. BY LESLIE LAKE SUN CORRESPONDENT | llake@amisun.com

BRADENTON BEACH – Shortly after the Dec. 7 city commission approval of a 106-room resort hotel/restaurant/retail complex on the corner of Bridge Street and Gulf Drive South, demolition began on the first building on the site. On Dec. 11, a permitted demolition began on 129 Gulf Drive S., the location of the former Joe’s Eats N Sweets. The property that the hotel will be built on is co-owned by local developer Shawn Kaleta and Bradenton Beach commissioner and businessman Jacob Spooner. It is sited on 1.61 acres and located at 101, 105 and 117 Bridge St. and 106, 108, 110 and 112 Third St. S. In a Dec. 27 email to The Sun from Bradenton Beach permit technician Annabre Veal, the permit application for demolition of 101 Bridge St. is complete and demolition permit applications for 105 and 117 Bridge St. have also been submitted. The proposed scope of the work at 101 Bridge St. is “Demo and remove entire structure (Mixed use comm/res, 2 living units, 1 comm building),” according to the permit applied for by Kaleta. Several local residents who are critics of the hotel project have expressed concern about the historical background and environmental concerns surrounding the three remaining buildings on the proposed hotel site, and they have reached out to city officials with their findings. A Dec. 15 letter signed by Christine Johnson and Sue Longacre and addressed to Mayor John Chappie, City Attorney Ricinda Perry and City Clerk Terri Sanclemente was hand-delivered to city hall by Johnson. “Residents of Bradenton Beach have uncovered historical elements located in the Florida Master Site File for situs addresses within the planned development, Bridge

LESLIE LAKE | SUN

Above, the former Joe’s Eats N Sweets at 129 Gulf Drive S. was demolished on Dec. 11 to make way for a hotel/restaurant/retail complex. The building at 105 Bridge St. (right) is slated for demolition.

Street Resort, in Bradenton Beach, Florida,” the letter states in part. The letter lists the three addresses from the Master Site File as: • “Magnolia Apartments, 105 Bridge Street, Bradenton Beach, Florida; dated 1935; Florida Master Site File: Condition- 'Fair;' appears to meet qualifications for National Listing Individually and as Part of a District; • Maestro’s Italian Restaurant; 101 Bridge Street, Bradenton Beach, Florida; dated 1925; Florida Master Site File; Condition 'Good;' appears to meet qualifications for National Listing Individually and as Part of a District; • Bridge Street Bazaar; 117 Bridge Street, Bradenton Beach, Florida; dated 1955; Florida Master Site File; Condition 'Good;' appears to meet qualifications for National Listing Individually and as Part of a District.” “Documents supporting relevant findings will be attached to this letter and residents believe it is necessary to present these findings to the City Commission and the City Attorney to preserve the historical elements of Bradenton Beach.” Former Building Official Steve

LESLIE LAKE | SUN

Gilbert said that the listing in the Master Site file does not prevent building owners from demolition. “I’m not aware of any structures in Bradenton Beach that might be listed on the state or federal registry,” Gilbert wrote in a Dec. 13 email to The Sun two days before he retired. “Even so, being listed does not preclude an owner from renovations, or demolition and rebuild. The purpose of the program is to encourage owners to 'save' older buildings, but there are no regulations through state or local ordinances to prohibit what is proposed.” In an April 24, 2013 story in the Anna Maria Island Sun, reporter Cindy Lane described the renovation at Magnolia as follows:

“While preserving the two-story exterior, in keeping with the Island’s low-rise appeal, Bill Herlihy has replaced almost everything inside the Island Time Inn, 105 Bridge St., formerly the Magnolia Inn, which he said dates back to 1935. Tile floors, beadboard cabinets, granite countertops, flat screen TVs, textured walls, light fixtures, kitchen appliances, bathroom fixtures and comfortable furniture are all new. But he saved a few things for history buffs, too - an old stained glass window in one unit, original wood ceilings in another, and even some of the original exterior of the building incorporated as interior walls.”

JANUARY 3, 2024

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THE SUN

Black Bones Music venue coming to Anna Maria Ginny’s and Jane E’s will soon double as an after-hours live music listening room. BY JOE HENDRICKS

SUN CORRESPONDENT | jhendricks@amisun.com

ANNA MARIA – Terri and Paul Davis are creating a new after-hours listening room and live music venue at Ginny’s and Jane E’s Café & Gift Store, 9807 Gulf Drive. Operating as Black Bones Music, the west Bradenton residents will host their first show on Friday, Jan. 12 with the Trevor Bystrom Trio as the headliner and 10-year-old singersongwriter “Nora Bear” as the opening act. Bystrom will be accompanied by Judit Maldonado on vocals and percussion and Benny Maldonado on percussion. Bystrom’s stepdaughter, Nora, will open the show with an hour-long set at 6 p.m., followed by the Trevor Bystrom Trio from 7:309:30 p.m. Light snacks, coffee drinks, beer, wine and soda will be available before the show and during intermission, but the kitchen will be closed. Tickets are

PAUL DAVIS | SUBMITTED

Paul and Terri Davis love and support local music and musicians. $25 and available at the EventBrite website at www.blackbonesmusic.com. Paul Davis is a sergeant with the Manatee County Sheriff’s Office (MCSO). He’s currently assigned to the Internal Affairs Unit and he previously led the MCSO Anna Maria Unit. Terri is a paralegal for a law firm in Sarasota. They were interviewed on Dec. 20 during a private Christmas party at Ginny’s and Jane E’s hosted by owners Paul and Tammy Foster. The event featured Christmas music performed by Just The 2 Of Us.

JOE HENDRICKS | SUN

Just The 2 Of Us recently performed at Ginny’s and Jane E’s annual Christmas party.

AN IDEA BLOOMS

When asked why they’re launching a listening room, Paul and Terri simultaneously said, “We just love music.” “We’ve been to a couple different listening rooms and we don’t have anything like that here,” Paul said. “Terri and I would go to different restaurants and bars and some of the bands were really good but they get

drowned out by the conversation and other noise. The perfect example is Trevor Bystrom. You can go to different places on the Island and listen to Trevor, but it’s more like background music. His Caribbean/Africaninfluenced music has strong lyrical messages that can get lost in the noise.

SEE MUSIC, PAGE 14

6 THE SUN

OPINION

The Anna Maria Island Sun 3909 East Bay Drive, Suite 210, Holmes Beach, FL 34217 Phone: 941-778-3986

email: news@amisun.com | ads@amisun.com | classifieds@amisun.com Like us on our Facebook page at www.facebook.com/AnnaMariaIslandSun JANUARY 3, 2024

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

Drop us a line Got an opinion, a complaint or a compliment? Is there something you need to get off your chest? Send us a letter to the editor and have your say. There are a couple of ways to do it. The easiest and most direct is to email The Sun at news@amisun.com. Remember to put Letter to the Editor in the subject field. Or you can snail-mail

a letter to us at The Anna Maria Island Sun, P.O. Box 1189, Anna Maria, FL 34216. Letters should be kept to 300 words or less and must contain your name and the city in which you reside. Personal attacks and obscene language will not be printed. The Sun reserves the right to edit letters for length or content.

JANUARY 3, 2024

EVENTS WEDNESDAY, JAN. 3

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

THURSDAY, JAN. 4

Beach cleanup, Bayfront Park, 316 N. Bay Blvd., Anna Maria, 9-11 a.m. Sunshine Stitchers knit and crochet, Island Branch Library, 5701 Marina Drive, Holmes Beach, 1 p.m. Game night at the NEST, Robinson Preserve Mosaic NEST, 840 99th St. N.W., Bradenton, 5:30 p.m.

FRIDAY, JAN. 5

Robinson Preserve tram tour, Valentine House, 1704 99th St. N.W., Bradenton, 9 a.m. and 10:30 a.m. Forty Carrots, Island Branch Library, 5701 Marina Drive, Holmes Beach, 10 a.m. Mah-jongg for experienced players, Island Branch Library, 5701 Marina Drive, Holmes Beach, 11:30 a.m. Paper crafting: New Year's cards, Island Branch Library, 5701 Marina Drive, Holmes Beach, 2 p.m.

SATURDAY, JAN. 6

Mornings at the NEST, Robinson Preserve Mosaic Nest, 840 99th St. N.W., Bradenton, 9 a.m. to noon Ask a Master Gardener, Island Branch Library, 5701 Marina Drive, Holmes Beach, 10 a.m.

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Paper crafting: New Year's cards, Island Branch Library, 5701 Marina Drive, Holmes Beach, 2 p.m.

MONDAY, JAN. 8

Gentle yoga, Island Branch Library, 5701 Marina Drive, Holmes Beach, 10 a.m. Sunset Tai Chi, Robinson Preserve Mosaic Nest, 840, 99th St. N.W., Bradenton, $10

TUESDAY, JAN. 9

AMI Chamber Sunrise Breakfast, Breakfast at Victoria’s, 5315 Gulf Drive, Holmes Beach, 8 a.m., $15 for members or $25 for prospective members Farmer’s Market, City Pier Park, 103 N. Bay Blvd., Anna Maria, 8:30 a.m. to 2 p.m. Family story time, Island Branch Library, 5701 Marina Drive, Holmes Beach, 10 a.m. Mah-jongg for experienced players, Island Branch Library, 5701 Marina Drive, Holmes Beach, 11:30 a.m.

WEDNESDAY, JAN. 10

Constructing a new tortoise enclosure, Robinson Preserve office building at the Nest, 840 99th St. N.W., Bradenton, 9 a.m. to noon Wildlife Spotlight: Ospreys, Robinson Preserve Valentine House, 1704 99th St. One-on-one tech help, Island Branch Library, 5701 Marina Drive, Holmes Beach, 2-4 p.m. Island Time Book Club, Island Branch Library, 5701 Marina Drive, Holmes Beach, 6:30 p.m.

THURSDAY, JAN. 11

Constructing a new tortoise enclosure, Robinson Preserve office building at the Nest, 840

99th St. N.W., Bradenton, 9 a.m. to noon AMI Chamber Luncheon, gRub Tropical BBQ, 415 Pine Ave., Anna Maria, 11:30 a.m., $22 for members or $30 for prospective members Sunshine Stitchers Knit and Crochet, Island Branch Library, 5701 Marina Drive, Holmes Beach, 1 p.m.

FRIDAY, JAN. 12

Forty Carrots, Island Branch Library, 5701 Marina Drive, Holmes Beach, 10 a.m. Mah-jongg for experienced players, Island Branch Library, 5701 Marina Drive, Holmes Beach, 11:30 a.m.

SATURDAY, JAN. 13

Mornings at the NEST, Robinson Preserve Mosaic Nest, 840 99th St. N.W., Bradenton, 9 a.m. to noon Anna Maria Winter Arts and Crafts Show, City Field, 5901 Marina Drive, Holmes Beach, 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Benefitting Roser Food Pantry

SUNDAY, JAN. 14

Anna Maria Winter Arts and Crafts Show, City Field, 5901 Marina Drive, Holmes Beach, 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Benefitting Roser Food Pantry

TUESDAY, JAN. 16

Farmer’s Market, City Pier Park, 103 N. Bay Blvd., Anna Maria, 8:30 a.m. to 2 p.m. Family story time, Island Branch Library, 5701 Marina Drive, Holmes Beach, 10 a.m. Mah-jongg for experienced players, Island Branch Library, 5701 Marina Drive, Holmes Beach, 11:30 a.m.

THE SUN

ON THE AGENDA ANNA MARIA

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

Please visit www.cityofannamaria.com or contact city hall for more information. Jan. 11, 6 p.m. – City Commission meeting and candidate forum Jan. 15, all day – City offices closed, Martin Luther King Jr. Day Jan. 25, 6 p.m. – City Commission meeting and candidate selection

BRADENTON BEACH

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

Please visit www.cityofbradentonbeach.com or contact city hall for more information. Jan. 4, 6 p.m. – City Commission meeting Jan. 15, all day – City offices closed, Martin Luther King Jr. Day Jan. 17, 1 p.m. – Scenic WAVES meeting Jan. 18, noon – City Commission meeting

HOLMES BEACH

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

Please visit www.holmesbeachfl.org or contact city hall for more information. Jan. 3, 10 a.m. – Parks and Beautification Committee meeting Jan. 9, 2 p.m. – City Commission meeting with work session to follow Jan. 10, 9 a.m. – Clean Water Ad-hoc Committee meeting Jan. 10, 5 p.m. – Planning Commission meeting Jan. 15, all day – City offices closed, Martin Luther King Jr. Day Jan. 23, 10 a.m. – Code Compliance special magistrate hearing Jan. 23, 5 p.m. – City Commission meeting with work session to follow

ISLAND-WIDE

Jan. 16, 2 p.m. – Coalition of Barrier Island Elected Officials meeting, Holmes Beach City Hall Jan. 16, 6 p.m. – West Manatee Fire Rescue board meeting, 701 63rd St. W., Bradenton

8 THE SUN

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JANUARY 3, 2024

DISCLOSURE: New financial law impacting AMI governments FROM PAGE 1 The expanded financial disclosure requirements also apply to future candidates seeking election to a city office. All elected mayors and city commissioners in office as of Dec. 31 are required to file a Form 6 disclosure form by July 1.

BRADENTON BEACH IMPACTS

Spooner was elected in 2015 and remained in office since then. He tendered his resignation in an email sent to City Clerk Terri Sanclemente, Mayor John Chappie and others on Dec. 28. “Please accept this letter as formal notification of my resignation from the Bradenton Beach City Commission and CRA, effective December 28, 2023,” Spooner wrote. “It has been an honor and a privilege to serve our community and work towards betterment alongside such dedicated individuals. My time on the commission has been deeply rewarding and educational. I have cherished the opportunity to contribute to our city’s growth and to collaborate on initia-

tives that have improved our residents’ quality of life. However, due to recent changes in the state law pertaining to financial disclosure requirements for city officials, I find it necessary to step down from my position at this time. Thank you for the opportunity to serve Bradenton Beach. It has truly been a meaningful period in my life. I look forward to watching the city continue to thrive and prosper in the future and know it is in good hands.” While in office, Spooner suggested the city use its contracted lobbyist to pursue state appropriations. This led to the city receiving millions of dollars in state funds for undergrounding utility lines and other projects. Spooner also proposed the addition of the new finger docks at the Bradenton Beach Pier. He was also a proponent of using Community Redevelopment Agency funds to decorate Bridge Street and the city entrance during the Christmas holidays. The remaining commission members will appoint someone to fill Spooner’s vacated seat. According to a Florida Commission on Ethics spokesperson, a commissioner appointed after Jan. 1 is still required to file a Form 6 by July 1.

JOE HENDRICKS | SUN

Bradenton Beach City Commissioner Jake Spooner resigned before the new financial disclosure requirements took effect.

ANNA MARIA IMPACTS

On Dec. 22, Anna Maria City Commission applicant Pat Olesen informed Mayor Dan Murphy and City Clerk LeAnne Addy that she was withdrawing her application for potential appointment to the city commission in late January. Olesen told The Sun she withdrew because of the Form 6 disclosure requirements. On Dec. 28, commission applicant John Kolojeski withdrew his application for similar reasons. In the email he sent to Mayor Dan Murphy,

Kolojeski stated he was reluctantly withdrawing his application after speaking to Joe Burns at the Florida Commission on Ethics the previous day and confirming that if appointed he would be subject to the Form 6 financial disclosure requirements. “In my opinion, the residents of Anna Maria did not need to know the value of an elected official’s oriental rug or art collection; such public information would most interest a thief,” Kolojeski stated in his email. “The most important information a voter needs is not required by the new law, namely does a candidate have financial interest in any business subject to actual or potential regulation by the city, e.g., real estate or construction, etc. What interests are financially supporting a candidate? Form 6 requirements I personally find onerous and irrelevant to the conflict issues of far greater importance.” On Dec. 13, Sharon Wisniewski withdrew her application. It is not known if the new financial disclosure requirements factored into her withdrawal.

SEE DISCLOSURE, PAGE 15

JANUARY 3, 2024

Sun Persons of the Year 2023 – John Stevely, Florida Institute for Saltwater Heritage and Judy Titsworth, Holmes Beach mayor 2022 – Mary Fulford Green, Cortez Village Historical Society 2021 – Peggy Nash, Roser Memorial Community Church 2020 – Jack Brennan, Roser Memorial Community Church and Kathy Smart, Minnie’s Beach Cafe 2019 – Doug Copeland, Anna Maria commissioner 2018 - Dan Murphy, Anna Maria mayor 2017 - Bob Slicker, Swordfish Grille manager 2016 – Rev. Ed Moss, CrossPointe Fellowship 2015 – Kenneth A. (Andy) Price Jr., chief, West Manatee Fire Rescue 2014 – Gail and Ed Straight, Wildlife Education and Rehabilitation Inc. 2013 - Charlie Hunsicker, director, Manatee County Parks and Natural Resources Department, and Rick Spadoni, Coastal Planning 2012 – Mike Selby, Anna Maria mayor 2011 – Roser Food Pantry 2010 – Rex Hagen, Hagen Family Foundation 2009 - Charlie Hunsicker, director, Manatee County Parks and Natural Resources Department 2008 - Cindi Harrison, Anna Maria Elementary School 2007 - The Legacy III - Emily Anne Smith, Lea Ann Bessonette, John Chappie 2006 - Suzi Fox, director, Anna Maria Island Turtle Watch 2005 - Cindy Thompson, Anna Maria Island Chamber of Commerce 2004 – Gene and Elizabeth Moss, Roser Memorial Community Church 2003 - Officer Pete Lannon, Holmes Beach Police Department 2002 - Sean Murphy, Beach Bistro 2001 - Carol Whitmore, Manatee County Commissioner; former Holmes Beach mayor

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THE SUN

TITSWORTH: Person of the Year FROM PAGE 1 “As police chief for the city of Holmes Beach with 45 years’ experience, I can say that Judy Titsworth is an amazing mayor to work with,” Chief Bill Tokajer said. “She lets me do my job. She allows us to have all the equipment that we need. All of our board members are on the same team, everybody’s going in the same direction and the direction that the city needs to go. She is in love with this city and has the city at heart and she takes it really hard when people attack her and the city. Not her personally, but the city itself. As to the work that we’re doing and how much we’ve accomplished, it’s just phenomenal. For us to be attacked and for her to be attacked is just unconscionable. She deserves this award. We appreciate her and I hope she knows it.” “Judy has been like my little sister,” Commissioner Pat Morton said. “I was the one who got her involved in the commission. I worked on her for five years to get her in here and it has never been a regret. She’s been the best mayor we’ve had since I’ve been on the Island. I’ve been here over 30 years. She just grew so much since she became mayor. It’s beyond anything we could have out here. She stands up for the citizens, like all of them should do, and she respects our city employees and everyone else. And she’s earned their total respect in return. I will back her any way I can.” Titsworth is part of the Holmes family that founded the city of Holmes Beach and was a city commissioner for many years before becoming mayor. She is currently serving her third term as mayor after running unopposed in 2022. In addition to being the city’s mayor, a job that’s she’s committed to full-time, she’s also working to oppose Manatee County commissioners’ plans to install a parking garage at Manatee Beach in violation of the city’s ordinances and land development code as well as working with the mayors of Anna Maria and Bradenton Beach

KRISTIN SWAIN | SUN

Holmes Beach Mayor Judy Titsworth shows off a gallery wall of artwork created by children from Anna Maria Elementary School for the city’s Islanders 4 Clean Water campaign. The gallery is on display inside the commission chambers at Holmes Beach City Hall. to fight against a push from the state to consolidate the three Anna Maria Island cities. In the past year, she’s also worked with city staff and other leaders to develop the Islanders 4 Clean Water campaign to help bring public awareness to issues affecting local water quality and the environment.

10 THE SUN

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Police chase on, off Island ends in crash BY JASON SCHAFFER

SUN CORRESPONDENT | jschaffer@amisun.com

Manatee County Sheriff’s Office (MCSO) deputies arrested a man after he allegedly battered an Uber driver, stole his vehicle and crashed it into light poles. At about 12:18 a.m. on Dec. 21, Leo Paul Bradley, 26, allegedly punched the driver in the 3500 block of First Street West in Bradenton after refusing to pay in advance for a ride from Bradenton to Tampa, according to a police report. Bradley allegedly stole the vehicle, which deputies spotted within minutes of a report, fleeing eastbound on Manatee Avenue West. A pursuit was initiated, and Bradley switched directions, heading west toward Anna Maria Island, later striking

JANUARY 3, 2024

Roser Church

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a deputy’s patrol vehicle, according to the report. The MCSO helicopter followed the SUV as it left the Island and nearly collided with oncoming traffic. Bradley allegedly continued to drive erratically to the 6700 block of Manatee Avenue West, where he drove the stolen vehicle into a light pole, knocking the pole into the roadway. He continued east, knocking down another light pole, coming to a stop in a ditch. Multiple MCSO units surrounded the vehicle. Fire and EMS removed Bradley and transported him to HCA Florida Blake Hospital with non-life-threatening injuries. Bradley was arrested for battery, motor vehicle theft, causing an accident involving a vehicle and aggravated fleeing with damage. The pursuit covered about 20 miles along dry roads with minimal traffic for about 17 minutes. There were no injuries to any MCSO personnel.

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

JANUARY 3, 2024

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THE SUN

STEVELY: Person of the Year FROM PAGE 4 board that was FISH in 1992, he was part of Sea Grants and sat on the board. And we lost him last year to a battle with cancer.” Von Hahmann then asked Stevely’s widow to accept a plaque on behalf of her late husband. “In memory of John Stevely, without his dedication to, and passion for, the FISH Preserve and the village of Cortez, the FISH Preserve restoration project never would have been accomplished. Gone but not forgotten,” the plaque reads. “I think I have a surprise for you guys perhaps,” Bert said. “In John’s and our will, we put $50,000 to be willed to the FISH Preserve. What I want to do is donate that $50,000 to the FISH Preserve now, specifically for trails and bridges. So this will help build those.” Stevely’s friend for more than 20 years and fellow scientist, Dale Beaumariage, remembered him as a visionary for the protection of the environment. “All of us biologists knew habitat was key for the survival of animals, especially fish,” Beaumariage said. “John recognized early on that the habitat was important to a productive shoreline which was being degraded by people.” Beaumariage said Stevely was dedicated to Cortez and its people.

“John recognized Cortez village consisted of people who were independent and worked for a living,” Beaumariage said. “They were producing food, and he knew protecting the habitat was essential when you’re harvesting for food.” He called Stevely an adventurer. “He liked diving and fishing,” Beaumariage said. He was also a surfer. “He and Terry traveled to exotic places to dive. He was an adventurer; he enjoyed the adventure.” A longtime marine extension agent at the University of Florida Sea Grant Program, Stevely was replaced in that role by Angela Collins. “John was most proud of Angela as a legacy,” Beaumariage said. “We miss him so much,” Collins said. “Even though he’s not here with us, his presence is felt every single day.” Collins noted that Stevely had served on the board of the Sarasota Bay Estuary Program and was a staunch advocate for local fisheries. “John was an integral player in the initiation of FISH and the preserve,” Collins said. “He was incredibly passionate about the ecosystem, Cortez and the working waterfront.” Collins said Stevely was one of the founders of the first Cortez Commercial Fishing Festival in 1981 and continued to promote Cortez and the festival throughout his life.

CINDY LANE | SUN

John Stevely was a co-founder of the Cortez Commercial Fishing Festival. Stevely’s scientific research encompassed many aspects of marine biology, including sponges. Proceeds from the annual festival are used to purchase and maintain the FISH Preserve. “When there was a giving challenge, John was pounding the pavement to find support for Cortez and to raise money for the FISH Preserve,” Collins said. “In 2000, FISH and community members came together in a grassroots effort to raise the money to purchase 95 acres of land

immediately adjacent to the village of Cortez. This parcel of land is now referred to as the “FISH Preserve” and it is one of the only untouched waterfront properties on Sarasota Bay,” according to the FISH website. “This habitat supports one of the last true working waterfronts in the state of Florida. The FISH Preserve came close to getting paved over by developers, however, the community came together to purchase the

property in the nick of time. “ Karen Bell and Linda Molto worked with Stevely on the initial purchase of the preserve property in 2000. “He was instrumental in all of it, FISH, the preserve and Cortez,” Bell said. “He was always one of the biggest supporters. He worked at the festival every year, which, along with private donations, is how we funded the preserve.” Bell added, “He was someone who never got upset. He was just a really good person.” Stevely dedicated his long and illustrious career to science and research. He earned a Bachelor of Science degree in biology from Gettysburg College in Pennsylvania and a Master's degree in marine science from the University of South Florida. He went on to be selected as a Smithsonian Research Fellow and a member of USF's Outstanding Alumni. During his career as a Marine Extension Agent, Stevely served as a University of Florida Sea Grant scientist and coauthored 15 scientific research publications. Following retirement, he became an Agent Emeritus. Among the nearly 20 awards and commendations he received, he was a Gulf Coast Guardian Award recipient, and in 2015, he was inducted into the Manatee County Agricultural Hall of Fame.

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Artists’ Guild gallery features ‘Sky Wonders’ The Artists’ Guild of Anna Maria Island in Holmes Beach features the art of Karen Eddy this month.

when many businesses in the Island Shopping Center will keep their doors open until 7:30 p.m. or later.

PAINT THE TOWN

BY JASON SCHAFFER

SUN CORRESPONDENT | jschaffer@amisun.com

HOLMES BEACH - Member painter Karen Eddy’s “Sky Wonders” is featured this month in the front window of the Artists’ Guild of Anna Maria Island gallery, 5414 Marina Drive. Since moving to Florida, Eddy has worked mainly with oil paints and strives to represent the many colors and cloud formations in the Florida sky. She looks forward each day to discovering the variety found in taking the time to gaze out and up at the skies, where the ever-changing atmosphere on the Gulf Coast is constantly evolving. Eddy’s exhibition is a collection of paintings that show a unique color kaleidoscope of some of the many scenes she

ARTISTS’ GUILD OF ANNA MARIA ISLAND | SUBMITTED

Works by Karen Eddy in the Artists’ Guild of Anna Maria Island gallery titled ‘Sky Wonders’ will be on display in the front window and offered for sale during January. has found living on the Gulf Coast. Her show offers a daily display, from a serene sunrise to the drama seen during afternoon thunderstorms to the colorful beauty of an evening coastal sunset. The show opens on Friday, Jan. 12 at 5 p.m. as part of the Holmes Beach Night Market,

The monthly Paint the Town event is scheduled the week of Jan. 8-13, featuring demonstrations by member artists from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. on Wednesday, Thursday, and Friday outside the gallery, a gallery competition for the People's Choice Award and a Paint-A-Round, where artists collaborate on one painting at the Night Market on Friday, Jan. 12 at 5 p.m. The Artists' Guild of Anna Maria Island, an all-volunteer, 501(c)(3) non-profit organization, was formed in 1989 to promote and support creative processes by bringing together all artists to share experiences and expertise and work together to develop and promote the artistic community.

Bradenton Gulf Island Concert Series Presents:

Foghat live at The Center Saturday, January 13 Get Tickets at: CenterAMI.org/events

JANUARY 3, 2024

Tickets on sale for ‘Mousetrap’ The Island Players’ historic 75th season continues after a holiday break with their upcoming production of Agatha Christie’s “The Mousetrap,” directed by Heiko Knipfelberg. The play centers around a police detective who arrives on skis to question the snowbound guests of Monkswell Manor Guest House. The seven strangers grow even more suspicious of each other when it becomes clear one of them is a killer. This iconic murder mystery is the world's longest-running play. Tickets are available online now for $30 at www.theislandplayers.org, and through the box office for $28. The play runs from Jan. 11-28 at the Island Players, 10009 Gulf Drive, Anna Maria. The box office phone number is 941-778-5755.

Art show coming to Holmes Beach Ring in the new year at the Fifth Annual Anna Maria Winter Arts and Craft Show at City Field in Holmes Beach the weekend of Jan. 13-14 from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. The event will feature dozens of fine artists and unique crafters including painters, woodworkers, sculptors, potters and more. Organized by Blue Ribbon Events, the show will collect nonperishable food items for the Roser Food Pantry in Anna Maria, where people experiencing food insecurity can receive free groceries. A dedicated corps of volunteers and staff members distributes more than 100 bags of groceries each month. Blue Ribbon Events also donates $500 to Roser Food Bank.

JANUARY 3, 2024

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Privateers host holiday business card exchange The Anna Maria Island Privateers sponsored the Dec. 14 Anna Maria Island Chamber of Commerce’s Business Card Exchange held at the chamber office in Holmes Beach. Anna Maria Island Privateers clockwise from left are Capt. Terry “Cookie” Rapert, Caryn Hodge (AMI Historical Society and Museum), Vice President Kelly “Moulin Rouge” Sparkman and President Mary Ann “MAZ” Zyla.

AMI CHAMBER | SUBMITTED

Kiwi Style Fish & Chips hosts luncheon Anna Maria Island Chamber of Commerce members experienced Kiwi Style Fish & Chips at 3608 E. Bay Drive in Holmes Beach on Dec. 14. From left are Caryn Hodge (AMI Historical Society & Museum), Ben Horvat (Ben Horvat Photography), Jennifer Geils (The Cheesecake Cutie & Café), Eric Bennetsen (The Gitt Team), Ryan Pfahler (GI Bins), Laura Freeman (Merits Design Group), Bob and Roxanne Wiley (Prime IV Hydration & Wellness), Karen LaPensee (LaPensee Plumbing Pools Air), Trey Friddle (Timber Creek Golf Course), President Terri Kinder (AMI Chamber of Commerce), Carolyn Anderson (Bins Be Clean), Kellie Spring (SERVPRO of Bradenton), and Katy Demick (Anna Maria Island Resorts).

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MUSIC: Black Bones Music venue coming to Anna Maria FROM PAGE 5 We want to give Trevor and people like him a place where people can experience the music and the musicians rather than just hearing them.” “The goal isn’t to have people come in and drink. It’s to have them listen to the music. It’s all about the music,” Terri added. Using Ginny’s and Jane E’s is the result of Paul and Terri’s friendship with the Fosters and the trips they took to New York City together. During one visit, they were looking for something to do on a Thursday night and fate stepped in. “Singer-songwriter Matt Walden was playing at The Bitter End in New York City,” Paul Davis said. “We’ve known Matt since he was a young kid, through the Del Couch Music Education Foundation in Palmetto that we’ve been part of for years. Paul and Tammy had never been to a place like that before. We’d talked about listening rooms with them but they never experienced one. When they went to The Bitter End, they got it. Shortly after that, Paul said if you guys are serious about doing this, why not do it at Ginny’s and Jane E’s.”

“Terri and I planned on doing something like this on a larger scale before COVID, but when COVID hit, that all went away. We took that same concept and we’re going to do it on a smaller scale,” he said. “Our goal is to promote local Florida bands and singers and all different types of music,” Terri said. “We’ve seen Trevor for years and I told Paul he needed to be our first concert. Trevor was all for it. Then we found Trey Wanvig.” Wanvig is a Sarasota-based blues guitarist, vocalist and songwriter who will headline the Friday, Feb. 2 show. “Trey’s 21 years old and he’s a phenomenal blues guitarist,” Paul said. “Then we have Matt Walden (Friday, Feb. 16 and Friday, March 29) and up-and-coming country star Andy Pursell (on Friday, April 12), who we also met through the Del Couch Foundation. Andy’s too big for a place like this, but he wants to play here because he knows us. We haven’t had our first concert yet and bands are already contacting us.” Drunken Shrubbery will headline the Friday, March 15 show and Passerine will headline the Friday, May 3 show. The local, regional and touring

Black Bones Music is named after the couple’s beloved black cat, Bones, whom they adopted and then rescued again after he ran away.

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TREVORBYSTROM.COM | SUBMITTED

Holmes Beach native Trevor Bystrom will headline the first Black Bones Music show. bands performing Black Bones Music shows will primarily play their own songs and occasionally cover songs written by others. “I want original music because that’s what I’m attracted to. I want to listen to Trevor Bystrom, Trey Wanvig and Andy Pursell, but I don’t mind them throwing in a couple covers,” Paul said. Black Bones Music also wants to bring in young local musicians as opening acts to give them exposure and experience. They’re working with the Del Couch Foundation and plan to reach out to a couple more music education programs as well.

When asked about Ginny’s and Jane E’s doubling as a listening room, Paul Foster said, “Paul’s a friend of mine. I knew him when he was a deputy out here. This is a Paul and Terri thing. They love local music. We went to New York with them and they showed us The Bitter End, where Bob Dylan played. “I do these invite-only Christmas shows every year. Paul and Terri were here last year and they said they thought they could do something with this room. They see this as a listening venue like The Bitter End, not a bar. They want to make the artist the center of attention and let them interact with the audience in a smaller setting. I said I’m not interested as a business partner, but if you want to use the venue you can. Look out for my products and here’s the keys. I’m happy to provide the space to friends of mine so they can pursue their passion,” Foster said.

JANUARY 3, 2024

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DISCLOSURE: New financial law impacting AMI governments FROM PAGE 8 The withdrawals left three applicants still seeking appointment to the commission as of Thursday afternoon. When contacted by The Sun, sitting Anna Maria commissioners Mark Short, Jon Crane and Charlie Salem each said they were not resigning. “I just hope it doesn’t discourage others from getting involved,” Salem said. The two new Anna Maria commissioners to be appointed on Jan. 25 must file their Form 6 by July 1.

HOLMES BEACH IMPACTS

When contacted on Thursday, Holmes Beach City Clerk Stacey Johnston said no resignations were tendered in Holmes Beach. Johnston said she provided the mayor and commissioners with access to Form 6 training materials and other information well in advance of the new disclosure requirements taking effect. After contacting the Manatee County Supervisor of Elections Office, Johnston confirmed that the city’s elected charter review board members will continue to file Form 1 disclosure forms when qualifying for election and will not have to file Form 6.

Holmes Beach Commissioner Terry Schaefer expressed concerns about the Form 6 disclosure requirements during the commission’s Nov. 14 meeting after attending a presentation that Florida Commission on Ethics Deputy Executive Director and General Counsel Steven Zuilkowski gave after the conclusion of the Nov. 9 ManaSota League of Cities meeting. “It’s very onerous. It requires detailed financial information, down to the bank accounts, their respective balances, securities and net worth. Is this going to thwart people in the future from even considering running if they have to open their financial statements to the public?” Schaefer said. Schaefer questioned whether the disclosure requirements would also discourage residents from serving on the city’s non-elected committees and boards. In response to that concern, Johnston said, “It is not for the committees. It’s only for the elected officials, which are the six of you.”

LONGBOAT KEY, STATEWIDE IMPACTS

After taking office in March, Longboat Key Town Council member Debbie Murphy submitted her resignation letter on Nov. 20 and her resignation took effect Dec. 24. “I feel my privacy is being infringed

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Naples vice-mayor resigned, three North Palm Beach City Commission members resigned and a Fort Myers Town Council member resigned because of the new financial disclosure requirements.

DISCLOSURE REQUIREMENTS EXTENSIVE

JOE HENDRICKS | SUN

Holmes Beach Commissioner Terry Schaefer recently expressed his concerns about the financial disclosure requirements that now apply to elected city officials. upon in being required to submit the new financial disclosure form and am unwilling to provide personal net worth information being requested. I find these requirements to be more onerous and intrusive than I am willing to share with the public,” she stated in her resignation letter. Statewide, the new financial disclosure requirements caused many elected city officials to resign. According to various new outlets, four of the five St. Pete Beach Commission members resigned and at least 18 elected municipal officials in Pinellas County resigned. Three elected city officials in Pasco County resigned, the

Most Florida mayors and city commissioners were previously required to file the Form 1 disclosure document that doesn’t require a disclosure of net worth. Form 1 requires the disclosure of income sources but not the amount of income received. Form 1 requires the disclosure of business interests, real estate holdings and major debts but does not require the specific amounts of those holdings and debts. During the Florida League of Cities annual conference in August, Zuilkowski and Commission on Ethics Executive Director Kerrie Stillman gave a presentation titled, “Let The Sunshine In: Everything you need to know about Form 6.” The presentation is posted at the Florida League of Cities website and provides detailed information about the Form 6 disclosure requirements and the nowmandatory electronic filing process.

SEE DISCLOSURE, PAGE 18

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DISCLOSURE: New financial law impacting AMI governments FROM PAGE 15 Form 6 requires elected officials to report their net worth at the end of the previous calendar year. It requires the disclosure of all income sources and the amount of income earned. It requires the disclosure of bank accounts and each account’s year-end balance. It requires the disclosure of land and real estate holdings, tangible and household assets valued at more than $1,000, stock and investment account year-end balances, financial debts and liabilities that exceed $1,000 and the amount owed to each creditor, with the exception of credit card debt and taxes owed. The nine appointed members of the Florida Commission on Ethics are also now required to file Form 6.

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The expanded Form 6 financial disclosure requirements are the result of the new state law created earlier this year with the Florida Legislature’s adoption of Senate Bill 774 and the matching committee substitute bill adopted by the House of Representatives. Gov. Ron DeSantis signed the expanded disclosure requirements into law in May.

However, due to recent changes in the state law pertaining to financial disclosure requirements for city officials, I find it necessary to step down from my position at this time.” Jake Spooner, Bradenton Beach commissioner Sen. Jason Brodeur (R-Sanford) sponsored SB 774. When contacted by The Sun, Brodeur’s office said he was unavailable for a phone interview but his aide provided a written statement Brodeur Brodeur shared with other media outlets. “Before the bill took effect, the following individuals holding public office were required to file a Form 6: The governor, the lieutenant governor, executive cabinet members, legislators, state attorneys, public defenders, clerks of circuit courts, sheriffs, tax collectors, property appraisers, supervisors of elections, county commissioners, elected superintendents of schools, district school board members, Jacksonville City Council members – including the mayor, compensation claims judges, the Duval County Superintendent of Schools, Florida Housing Finance Corporation

Board members, Florida Prepaid College Board members and members of each expressway authority, transportation authority, bridge authority or toll authority,” Brodeur stated. “City officials, presumably with the highest spending authority and the lowest vote count thresholds, have very little transparency, so the bill lined them up with everyone else in public office,” he stated. “The Florida Commission on Ethics said during their public testimony when the bill was heard in committee that more people filed to run for public office last year than ever before, so there likely won’t be a lack of good people running for office. Similar arguments were made by county commissions, school boards and constitutional officers when it became a requirement that they submit a Form 6, and we’ve had no shortage of candidates for any of those positions,” he stated. “I’m not so much concerned about their

pay as I am about their spending authority. It takes 82 votes in the Legislature to spend taxpayer dollars. In a city, you can spend tens of millions of dollars with as little as three votes. Taxpayers deserve transparency. If a simple disclosure that hundreds of other elected officials already do makes someone quit, then voters should be glad,” Brodeur stated.

ETHICS COMMISSION INSIGHTS

When contacted by The Sun, Stillman provided additional insights on the Form 6 financial disclosure requirements. She said the first Form 6 was promulgated in 1977. “It is not a new form. It has been around for decades. It’s a new requirement for city commissioners and mayors. The biggest difference between Form 1 and Form 6 is the requirement to provide net worth and to list specific income amounts,” Stillman said.

SEE DISCLOSURE, PAGE 26

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OUTDOORS

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New Year's resolutions

Reel Time RUSTY CHINNIS

ew Year’s resolutions are an annual ritual. It’s a time to look back and reflect on what matters most, how we feel about our lives, and what changes might improve our situation. It’s also a time to consider what positive actions and fresh adventures might be planned for the new year. Anglers can glean some valuable insight by reviewing their year in fishing, examining what they learned from their days on the water, what their experiences revealed and assessing how this knowledge might lead to improved success and enjoyment in 2024.

I’m not suggesting that we write down hard and fast resolutions that don’t give any wiggle room. Instead, think back on even the small things that when done differently might have had a bigger impact than you ever imagined. An example might be remembering when you hooked a nice fish only to lose it to a failed knot, that tell-tale squiggle on the end of your line where the hook used to be attached. This resolution might read, “Always remember to carefully tie my knots, inspecting and testing them before I start fishing.” The same applies to sharpening hooks, checking the drag, and inspecting the line for nicks and abrasions. Reflections like this can be the start of a general review of all your rigging, the state of your tackle and lures and the

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A concerned Anna Maria resident reported this illegal, after-hours mangrove destruction at 111 Gull Drive, now under investigation by city, state and federal agencies. condition of the line you have on your reels. Tackle and organization are certainly places to start but extend that same thinking to other equipment like your boat and motor, waders,

push pole and trolling motor. Experience teaches us that it’s the little things that we overlook that come back to haunt us. On the water, consider thinking out of the proverbial box by altering

your routine strategy. Many anglers go fishing with a plan and never deviate from it. They start at one spot and hit all the usual holes during the day. A different option is to try planning to fish in places you’ve never explored before. I’ve done this and been amazed at how many areas there are that have proven to be productive. Looking at the same place with new eyes can be revealing. Also, consider trying a new destination. There are lots of beautiful and productive fishing adventures within a few hours’ drive of Anna Maria Island, both north and south. Drive two hours north and you can explore the Chassahowitzka National Wildlife Refuge and, just north of there, Homosassa, Crystal

SEE REEL TIME, PAGE 21

JANUARY 3, 2024

BY JOE BECHT

SUN CORRESPONDENT

ANNA MARIA - Legendary rock band Foghat is scheduled to appear at The Center of Anna Maria Island on Saturday, Jan. 13, one of the concerts in the Bradenton Gulf Island Concert Series. With a new album, Sonic Mojo, currently the #1 blues album in the U.S., Foghat is known for its popular hard rock songs, “Slow Ride,” “Fool For the City” and “Stone Blue.” Guitarist Bryan Bassett, who has been with the band since 1989, described his excitement to perform on AMI.

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Foghat to appear at Center “I live in the state and know AMI is a great place. It will be nice to drive I-4 to I-75 instead of hopping on a bus or plane,” he said. “I started with the band Wild Cherry and we were a rock band,” he said. “At the time, The O’Jays, Ohio Players and Commodores were big, so our management told us to shift in that direction.” The result was the famous song, “Play that Funky Music” by Wild Cherry. A friendship with the now-deceased Foghat member “Lonesome” Dave Peverett led to Bassett eventually joining the band. Another friendship is the reason

REEL TIME: New Year's resolutions FROM PAGE 20 River and Withlacoochee Bay. Less than two hours south and you can discover Charlotte Harbor and Pine Island Sound. Don’t want to go that far? Anyone with a boat can leave Anna Maria Island and be fishing in fresh water in less than an hour. The Manatee River and Braden River provide anglers with a variety of fish from tarpon to catfish, redfish to bass. Both

THE SUN

rivers also have numerous launch sites for boats, kayaks and paddleboards. It might even prove useful to review how you approach fishing. If you’re a fly caster, look at ways you might improve your casting and consider learning how to cast with your non-dominant hand. Anglers who use conventional tackle might want to try artificial lures instead of always relying on live bait. No matter how long you’ve been fishing or what your level of competency there’s always room

Foghat is coming to AMI. “I knew Rich Engler from when he was the top promoter in Pittsburgh. He is one of the great guys in the industry and now he is bringing bands to Anna Maria. When he contacted us, we immediately

said ‘yes.’ It’s going to be great to play in the state that I live in and love.” When asked about the new album’s popularity, Bassett said, “It just goes to show you that the older established bands can still bring it like no one else. The Rolling Stones just released a killer album and now our album, Sonic Mojo, which we are quite proud of, is #1 in the blues charts.” The opening act begins at 7 p.m. with Foghat performing at 8 p.m. at The Center, 407 Magnolia Ave. Tickets can be purchased at https://www.itickets.com/ register/new/475029

for improvement. A general review of tackle, techniques and the opportunities available to you can only improve your enjoyment of fishing moving into 2024. Lastly and even more important, consider getting involved in protecting the resource that determines our fishing today and in the future. Fishermen have the most to lose by not addressing the degradation of our local waters and habitat. There are so many ways to make a difference no matter your circumstance. Keep an eye out and report illegal mangrove trimming and pick up trash on the water. Employ enlightened

self-interest by vetting your local, state and national politicians on how they voted on matters that affect the water we drink and swim in and the fish we pursue. If we vote party line rather than on the issues that affect our fishing, we’re working against our self-interest. Write letters, attend commission meetings and join and donate to organizations like Sarasota Bay Watch, Vote Water and Suncoast Waterkeeper who work to protect our watery world. A resolution to act this year will protect what we value most for today and future generations. Happy New Year!

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JANUARY 3, 2024

Community celebration The Sixth Annual Sandsnowman Competition drew 65 neighbors and friends to celebrate with Christmas Eve brunch and a friendly Sandsnowman building competition on Anna Maria Island. DEB SNEDDON | SUBMITTED

JANUARY 3, 2024

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Cortez Kitchen reopening soon BY LESLIE LAKE

SUN CORRESPONDENT | llake@amisun.com

CORTEZ – While a specific date hasn’t been announced, the opening of the newly-remodeled Cortez Kitchen is getting close to the finish line. The Cortez Kitchen building is owned by John Banyas, who also owns the Swordfish Grill and Tiki Bar next door. The building was leased by Joe Oelker, who owned the restaurant business there for 19 years before announcing his retirement in August. Adam Sears, manager of the Swordfish Grill and Tiki Bar, had no comment when asked by The Sun on Dec. 13 about an exact opening date, but according to a post on the Cortez Kitchen Facebook page, the doors should be open sometime this month. “Closed for renovations, reopening Jan. 2024. Fresh seafood, live music & an old Florida feel,” the post reads. Speaking on behalf of Banyas in August, Sears laid out the plans for the building, located at 4528 119th St. W. “It’s going to be closed down for about four to five months while the

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Work is being done on the Cortez Kitchen, which is expected to reopen this month. building is remodeled and cleaned up,” Sears said at the time. “The plan is to reopen it as a restaurant with the same old Florida charm. People are worried that condos or something will be going in here. That isn’t going to happen.” Both the Swordfish Grill and Tiki Bar and the Cortez Kitchen have waterfront locations on Sarasota Bay. A Dec. 22 Cortez Kitchen Facebook post says, “Greetings all

you cool cats and kittens! We are hiring all positions in preparation of our upcoming reopening!” Open positions include cooks, servers, bartenders, dishwashers and management. “What we are looking for: Hardworking, Reliable Transportation, Team Player and Open Availability. Must apply online: cortezkitchenfl.com/employmentapplication” according to the post.

24 THE SUN

REAL ESTATE

JANUARY 3, 2024

Happy new real estate year

espite homeownership being a pipe dream for many Americans, there is good news on the horizon. If you’re a first-time buyer and are still stuck on the sidelines, this may be the time to get started. One-third of buyers in 2023 were first-time home buyers, below the historical average of 38%, according to the National Association of Realtors. In addition, the median age of first-time buyers was 35 years old. It is now less affordable than at any time in recent history to buy a home, and that isn’t changing any time soon - except for one interesting point. When the Federal Reserve started raising rates aggressively two years ago to curb inflation, mortgage rates went up right along with all the other rates for borrowing money. Well, a funny thing happened on the way to 2024; rates started going down. The Federal Reserve stopped raising rates during the last several meetings, the stock

Castles in the Sand LOUISE BOLGER market started going up and mortgage rates started heading to 7%. As of this writing, according to Forbes, the rate for a 30-year fixed rate mortgage was 7.26% and the rate for a 15-year fixed rate mortgage was 6.34%. Also, the Federal Reserve signaled it may cut interest rates next year and possibly have multiple rate cuts. This may not help the housing shortage that has kept asking prices so high, but for those who can finally find a home, the carrying charges are starting to look more affordable, allowing more first-time buyers to qualify for financing. However, Gen Z and Millennials, the primary buyers of first-time homes, will

continue to be facing a limited supply of single-family properties. This will put pressure on prices to stay elevated unless or until supply catches up. Locally, there is more positive news. WalletHub.com, an online company that analyzes market trends, has placed Tampa as the best place to retire. In fact, their analysis places the five top best places to retire as Tampa, Scottsdale, Arizona, Fort Lauderdale, Orlando and Miami, four out of the top five in the state of Florida. Just to be fair, U.S. News & World Report placed Tampa as #4 in their analysis as the best place to retire, moving up from #6. Both surveys are based on affordability, quality of life and health care. And very close to home, imagine my surprise when about a month ago I opened the second page of the Wall Street Journal and found Cortez, Florida as the dateline in a good size news story.

The story was about the Hunters Point new construction on Cortez Road just east of the Cortez Bridge. Hunters Point single-family homes are all energy-efficient homes, explained by the developer as the first “net zero” single-family home development in the country. This means that the homes generate at least as much energy as they consume. The homes have solar panels and a battery system to keep the power on even if the power grid experiences outages. They are also built with flood vents to accommodate rising water and living space that is about 16 feet above sea level. Hunters Point’s goal is to fight both the cause of climate change and carbon emissions while protecting their properties during major storm events. It looks like little Cortez made the big time, and you can too if you start the new year with an optimistic outlook. In the words of Mark Twain, “The secret of getting ahead is getting started.” Happy New Year!

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JANUARY 3, 2024

OBITUARIES John Richard “Dick” Henke

John Richard “Dick” Henke was born on Nov. 27, 1924, in Anna, Ohio, the son of Arnold Henry and Naomi Marie (Komminsk) Henke. He passed away on Dec. 10, 2023 in Bradenton, Florida. Dick was a member of the greatest generation and lived a life of service to others. Everyone who knew Dick knew him to be a man of integrity and kindness, with a mischievous sense of humor. He was a loving husband and father and a true and loyal friend to those who were his many friends. He was a man dedicated to his faith. His life was well lived. He graduated from Sidney High School, Sidney Ohio, in 1942, having earned varsity letters as a quarterback in football, guard in basketball

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and in track. He then graduated from Peddie Preparatory School, Peddie, New Jersey, where he also played football and basketball. Dick interrupted his higher education to enter the United States Army during World War II. He was a Sergeant in the artillery, landing in France shortly after D-Day in 1944. Serving in the Rainbow Division, he was awarded a Bronze Star during the Battle of the Bulge. He was part of the American Occupation Forces in Austria following the end of World War II and was discharged in 1946. During his time in Austria, he was starting halfback for the Rainbow Division football team. After his honorable discharge, Dick enrolled at Miami University, Oxford, Ohio, where he played football until an injury cut short his playing days. He and his high school sweetheart, Virginia Caroline Stump, were married on July 14, 1947, they lived happily together for 62 years until her death in 2009. Dick graduated from Miami University in 1949 with a Bachelor’s degree in Business.

HOLMES BEACH: 5201 Gulf Drive • ELLENTON: 945 25th Drive East, Suite 10

They then moved to West Lafayette, Indiana, where Dick enrolled at Purdue University, receiving a Master's degree in Bacteriology in 1950. He was pursuing a Doctorate in Dairy Technology when he and his wife returned to Sidney, Ohio to operate the family business, Sidney Dairy Products, due to the illness of his father. Dick was proud to serve as the owner and operator of Sidney Dairy for more than 35 years and to give back to his community in a number of different ways, including as member and Chair of the Council of St. John’s Lutheran Church, Chair of the committee to found the SidneyShelby County YMCA and board chair for dozens of years, member of the Wilson Memorial Hospital Board, member of the Board of Directors of Citizens Baughman Bank (the local Bank One affiliate) as well as involvement in numerous other civic organizations. In 1986, Dick sold Sidney Dairy and he and Virginia began spending winter months in Holmes Beach on

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Anna Maria Island, Florida, where they then resided permanently from 2001. Dick and Virginia joined Trinity Lutheran Church in Bradenton and were devoted members, with Dick serving as treasurer and serving on the Church Council. Dick and Virginia were the proud parents of three children, all of whom survive: Bruce Henke, Barbara (Bob) Eilert and Brad (Suzanne) Henke, all of whom reside in Bradenton, Florida. He also is survived by grandchildren, Barry (Dawn) Eilert and Holly (Dwayne) Hall; great-grandchildren, Samantha, Alexis, Olivia and Keaton; great-great-grandchildren, Theodore and Mabel. A sister, Marjorie, and brother, Robert, predeceased him. Services were held on Dec. 15, 2023, at Trinity Lutheran Church, 2200 26th St. W., Bradenton, Florida. Brown & Sons Funeral Homes & Crematory 43rd Street Chapel was in charge of the arrangements. In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations be made to the charity of your choice.

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DISCLOSURE: New financial law impacting AMI governments FROM PAGE 18 “This change is something that’s been recommended by the (Ethics) Commission since 2015 or 2016. Over the years, it has been in bills that have been debated in legislative committees, and the Florida League of Cities was closely following and active in the issue,” she said. “The state of Florida has very broad public records laws and prioritizes transparency. The filing of financial disclosure forms does provide transparency to the public. The ethics laws, the disclosure requirements and the transparency are designed to help bolster the public’s trust in their government and help identify potential conflicts of interest. The exercise of an official completing the form each year helps the official remember where their interests are and helps them avoid potential conflicts of interest,” Stillman said. Stillman said Form 6 filers are not asked to provide bank account numbers, social security numbers and other sensitive information. She noted the new law also eliminates paper filing and requires all Form 6 filings to be done electronically using the Ethics

Commission’s online filing system. When qualifying to run for a mayoral or city commission seat, non-incumbent candidates must now fill out Form 6, print a copy of the filed form and submit it to the applicable election qualifying officer, which is generally the supervisor of elections office. Incumbent city candidates seeking reelection must provide their qualifying officer with a printed receipt of their most recent Form 6 filing. Stillman said elected fire district board members are not required to file a Form 6 and will continue to file Form 1. “Currently, there are about 26,000 Form 6 filers. With the addition of city officials, we anticipate that amount will double. Our staff is prepared to assist all these officials as they transition to this new form. They’ll have access to our filing system beginning in January,” Stillman said. She noted that financial disclosure forms, a video tutorial and answers to frequently asked questions are available at the Ethics Commission website, https://ethics.state.fl.us/. “We’re ready to help the folks comply and adjust to the Form 6 requirement,” Stillman said.

JANUARY 3, 2024

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BEACH BEAT

beach access signs that had been removed from the intersection of 3500 Gulf Drive. A search of the area yielded no results. No video cameras were found in the area and no further action was taken.

BRADENTON BEACH 12/18, 10 a.m., grand theft, 2400 Gulf Drive S. The officer responded to a report of an outboard boat motor missing from a sailboat anchored in the channel area near the Coquina Beach boat ramp. The boat owners stated they left the boat for two hours and when they returned, the motor was gone. Due to high winds and stormy weather, the officer asked if the motor may have fallen off, which the owners denied. No suspect has been identified.

HOLMES BEACH 12/5, 8 a.m., missing signs, 3500 Gulf Drive. The officer was approached by Holmes Beach Public Works staff regarding two

12/18, 3 a.m., trespass warning, 3900 East Bay Drive. The officer responded to a trespass complaint at Publix, where he found a male subject lying in a patch of bushes behind the Publix loading dock. When the officer approached the subject, he immediately smelled the strong odor of alcohol. The subject had a small bottle of clear liquor and several empty bottles were behind him. The officer’s report said when he told the subject he could not drink at the location, he became argumentative and was not making sense in responding to questions. The responding officer spoke with the manager, who requested the subject be trespassed from the property. The subject left and no further action was taken.

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PremierSIR.com Sotheby’s International Realty® and the Sotheby’s International Realty logo are registered service marks used with permission. Each office is independently owned and operated. Equal Housing Opportunity. Property information herein is derived from various sources including, but not limited to, county records and multiple listing services, and may include approximations. All information is deemed accurate.

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JOE HENDRICKS | SUN

The recipient families, the Renegades, the Crewe of Hernando De Soto and the Drift In staff enjoyed the annual gift-giving ceremony.

Renegades and Crewe deliver Christmas

On Dec. 23, the Bradenton-based Renegades motorcycle club, with an assist from the Crewe of Hernando De Soto, delivered to the Drift In bar in Bradenton Beach Christmas gifts for two local families. The Renegades solicited donations from local businesses and patrons and they and their significant others purchased and wrapped the gifts that this year were delivered aboard the Crewe’s pirate-themed parade vessel, “Empty.” The Renegades’ club president said, “We’re doing our annual adopt-a-family. We’re bringing presents to the kids. We have two families out here and we have one family we’ve already done who lost their father this year in a motorcycle accident. We got involved with Doreen

(Flynn) and the Drift In many years ago and they’ve been an amazing help. We get a lot of support from the community and we like to give back.” As a member of one of the recipient families, Rustina Kelley said, “We used to ride with the Renegades many years ago. They knew I was in a motorcycle accident and we’re now depending on one income. We were in need and the Renegades adopted us for Christmas.” Rustina’s husband, “Ratchet Jack,” said, “What they’re doing is awesome. We participated in the past to help others and this time we needed it. That’s a real brotherhood right there.” Their teenage daughter, Karissa, said, “I thank them very much for what they’re doing. I’m very grateful.”

JANUARY 3, 2024

FUN IN THE SUN

Across 1 "High Voltage" rock band 5 Frozen drink brand 9 Revolving entryway 14 "Heck no" 15 Humpty Dumpty's perch 16 Alleviates 17 Freddie Mercury portrayer Malek 18 Sleeve fillers 19 Assists in a crime 20 Game whose cards have images of red and green fruit 23 "If u ask me" 24 Falsehood 25 Folklore figure 28 Game whose tiles are stored in a fruit-shaped bag 34 Concealed via sleight of hand 36 Bled in the wash 37 Tied, as a score

Answers to 12-27-23 Crossword Puzzle

38 "We're live!" studio sign 39 Dad, or soda 40 Yogurt-based condiment 41 Mama of music 42 U.S. spy org. 43 Cease communication 44 Game in which players compete to collect plastic fruit 47 Once named 48 "The Raven" poet Edgar Allan __ 49 Actress Watson 51 What I shouldn't do at the dinner table, except in 20-, 28-, and 44-Across? 58 Mickey or Minnie 59 Base x height, for a parallelogram 60 Big brass horn 61 Puts laundry into piles, say 62 Pork or beef

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63 Supply-and-demand subj. 64 Kiss on both cheeks, perhaps 65 Sinks out of sight, as the sun 66 "Better Call Saul" actress Seehorn Down 1 New Age-y emanation 2 "I say, old __" 3 Trash destination 4 Five-alarm potful 5 "They tricked me!" 6 Container for eggs 7 Ticklish Muppet 8 Anna's "Frozen" sister 9 Common name for a deep-ocean cucumber 10 Early run-through of a script 11 "Makes sense" 12 "Why don't we?" 13 Squiggly letter 21 Glowing coal 22 Schedule 25 Geologic time 26 Hawaiian patio 27 Brief bright light 29 Superloud 30 Forty winks 31 Bird-related 32 British unit of length 33 Slithering reptile 35 Soup base made from fermented soybeans 39 Fruit-filled dessert 40 Like baggy pants

42 __ necklace: jewelry that provides soothing oral sensory input 43 Soft spots for tumblers 45 Most demure 46 Pop in the microwave,

perhaps 50 "Repeat __ me" 51 Like a one-star review 52 Plastic worm, e.g. 53 Healthy Kitten brand 54 Walnut or chestnut

55 "You wound me!" 56 Double-reed woodwind 57 "The X-Files" agent Scully 58 Flavor enhancer, for short

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CLASSIFIEDS

ANNOUNCEMENTS THE BEST VOLUNTEER position on the island. The AMI Historical Museum needs docents and bread makers. Call Kathy Primeau at 989-560-6381. ROSER FOOD BANK needs donations of cash and non-perishable food, PAPER & PERSONAL HYGIENE PRODUCTS. Donations boxes are located at the Church, Moose Club, and Walgreen’s. HOSPITAL VOLUNTEERS WANTED to assist at our information desk, especially weekends. Great for teens needing volunteer hours (16yrs+). Other assignments available. Please call the Blake Volunteer Office at 941-798-6151. BRIDGE AT ROSER HALL, Friday’s 12:30pm to 3pm. Call 314-324-5921

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

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

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

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

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Call us today! 941-778-3986 JANUARY 3, 2024

KERN & GILDER CONSTRUCTION, INC New Homes & Remodel. Design/Build. Since 1968. License # CBC 1261150. Call the Office. 941-7781115 GET’R DONE DRYWALL, INC Specializing in Remodels & Repairs. Island Resident for 20+ years. Call Neil. Cell 941-9621194 JSAN CORPORATION Renovations Construction & Handyman Services 941-243-0995 Lic# CRC1332505 jsancorporation@gmail. com Flooring, Drywall, Painting, Repairs, Kitchen and Bathrooms, Trim & Doors. Free Estimates. Credit Cards Accepted. API’S DRYWALL REPAIR 15+ years experience. Free estimates. No job too small. Love to help you. Call 941-524-8067. ISLE TILE specializing in Custom Bath/Shower & Backsplash installation. Pressure washing available. Call 941-302-8759 isletileservices.com GORILLA DRYWALL REPAIR, LLC. 15+ years of experience. Free Estimates. Let’s solve your Drywall problems together. Call 941-286-0607. HOME IMPROVEMENT Michigan General Contractor 30+ yrs. experience. Large or small projects. Budget minded knowledgeable tradesman will complete your project start to finish: On Time/ On Budget. Call Mike 616-204-8822. BMF INTERIORS Home repairs and more, No job too small. Please call 786318-8585

LANDSCAPING & LAWN CARE R. GAROFALO’S Interlocking brick pavers, driveways, patios, pool decks. Free estimates. Licensed & Insured. Call Rafael 941-778-4823 or Veronik 941-526-7941 SHELL DRIVEWAYS & LANDSCAPE. Specializing in Old Florida Seashell and Lime rock driveways and scapes. Also River Rock, Sand, Mulch, & Soil. Call Shark Mark 941-301-6067 ISLAND RESIDENT. TREE/ BUSH Trimming, removal. Sweeping, blowing, and weeding. Weekly, bi-monthly or monthly schedule. Pressure washing. Call Bill Witaszek 941307-9315

PROFESSIONAL PAINTING SERVICES. Prompt & Reliable. Island Resident. Quality Workmanship. Interior/Exterior. Minor repairs & carpentry. Free estimates. Bill Witaszek 941-307-9315 PAINTING / INTERIOR / EXTERIOR: Sarasota Interior Painting. Call or Text Don @ 941900-9398. We are the Best High-End Painting Business! Just ask our AMI Clients! I'm the Owner & the Painter. Free Estimates. Fully Insured Licensed Business. You'll love the results! AMI Chamber of Commerce Member.

LOST & FOUND

POOL SERVICES

FOUND BICYCLE that fell off back of car on Cortez Road Call 941-518-1078

FOUR SEASONS POOL SERVICE AND CHEMICAL SERVICES. Certified Pool Operator. 18 + Years Experience. Residential/commercial. Chemical Service Licensed & Insured. Call Dennis Clark 941-7375657

FOUND BOAT CUSHION off Bean Point Call 941778-6783

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

COLE'S TROPICAL POOL SERVICE Call Cole Bowers for all your pool maintenance needs! Affordable and Dependable!! 941-7131893

PRESSURE WASHING & WINDOWS TOTAL HOME SERVICES CLEANING: Residential, Commercial, Construction, Vacation, VRBO Rentals . Also available Pressure Washing, Roof Cleaning, Paver Sealing and Windows. Call 941-5653931. T & B PRESSURE WASHING Licensed & Insured. Driveways/sidewalks, Roofs, Pool cages, Fences, House (soft wash/ downstream). Call 813638-7636. tandbpressurewashing@yahoo. com Family owned and operated.

REAL ESTATE HOMES & CONDOS FOR SALE Have you been thinking of selling? We NEED properties to List for SALE!!! GULF FRONT, CANAL FRONT, BAY FRONT CONDOS or HOMES ASK for BIG Alan Galletto of Island Real Estate to get it SOLD 941-232-2216

FOR SALE - 5400 GULF COMPLETELY UPDATED COASTAL BEAUTY! Poolside Paradise in Gulf Front 55+ community! $579,000 Call Erin Leathem at The Anna Maria Sales Team of Island Real Estate 941448-5616

LOOKING FOR A highly motivated real estate broker to buy or sell your next home? Darcie Duncan, Broker Duncan Real Estate a lifelong island resident bringing success to her customers for 30 years. Proven track record brings you results! 941-725-1589

FOR SALE - PERICO BAY CLUB Quiet Cul-de-sac, water view villa! Bright & Updated 3 bed/2 bath w 2 car garage & private courtyard! $639,900 Call Erin Leathem at The Anna Maria Sales Team of Island Real Estate 941-448-5616

TIRED OF HURRICANE SEASON & want to sell? Call Kelly The Kelly Gitt Team Proud Veteran Keller Williams on the Water 941-799-9299

SNOWBIRDS! FOR SALE: Vintage, tied down 1br/1 bath RV in Sarasota Bay RV Park on Cortez, 1 mile from Cortez Bridge. $34,900. 6 month/year max occupancy. On Sarasota Bay. Pickleball, shuffleboard, huge pool and many activities. Call 810-577-6964.

NEWLY-RENOVATED CONDO for sale, 2BR/2B, 1639 SF, 6904 10th Ave. W., Village Green on cul-de-sac. 1-car garage, large Florida room, dine-in kitchen plus dining room, large pantry, built-in china cabinet, walk-in closet, lots of storage, laundry room, lush landscaping, pool, walking/running track, 5 miles to AMI, near medical, shopping, preserves, $379,900. Lisa Varano, Wagner Realty, 941-730-9060. FOR SALE - PERICO BAY CLUB Private Waterfront Beauty! Beautifully updated 3bed/2bath w 2 car garage & courtyard $627,999 Call Erin Leathem at The Anna Maria Sales Team of Island Real Estate 941448-5616

RENTALS: ANNUAL ANNUAL RENTALS WANTED! We have well qualified tenants for beach and mainland annual rentals, Full management or Finders fee. Call today for details. Ask for Paige DUNCAN REAL ESTATE 513-382-1992. ANNUAL: GROUND LEVEL 1BR/1BA, 55+ community, $1800 per month. Call 941-778-4800 ANNUAL RENTALS 407 76th B Holmes Beach, FL1BR/1.5BA, unfurnished on canal $3000/mo. 804 S Bay Blvd. Holmes Beach, FL- 3BR/2BA, furnished, Bayfront $5,500/mo. Call Sato Real Estate 941-7787200

JANUARY 3, 2024

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BUSINESS & SERVICE DIRECTORY HOME IMPROVEMENT

HOME IMPROVEMENT

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

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RENTALS: SEASONAL & VACATION

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TIFFANY PLACE Gulf Front Condo for Rent Incredible views from living room and master bedroom. 2BR/2BA Green Real Estate Call 941-778-0455 SEASONAL RENTAL in PALMA SOLA. 3BR/2BA weekly or monthly rates. Contact Barb Grace 941-201-2190 ANNA MARIA ISLAND CONDOS Large pool, beach access, free WiFi, 1&2 Bedroom $900 to $1200 per week redekercondosonami.com Tim 941-704-7525

Call for Details

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AMI SEASONAL RENTAL 2024, Cozy & Nice, fully furnished with water view 2 BR/2BA, 3 minute walk to beach. Call 941-226-4008

TRANSPORTATION ANYTIME TRANSPORTATION to all Airports, Casino, etc. Tampa/St. Pete $80. Sarasota $40. Pets welcome. Very dependable. Reasonable rates. Contact Jeanne. 941-779-5095

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JANUARY 3, 2024