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Tag: Anna Maria Island Chamber of Commerce

Having a boo-tiful Halloween on AMI

Written by Jason Schaffer on . Posted in Entertainment, Events, Family fun.

ANNA MARIA ISLAND – It was a hauntingly good time this Halloween as hundreds of little ghouls, goblins, witches, princesses and even a few superheroes descended upon the Island for the annual Trail of Treats celebration.

The event, hosted by the Anna Maria Island Chamber of Commerce, stretched the length of the Island as businesses invited trick or treaters to come and collect candy from stops in Bradenton Beach, Holmes Beach and Anna Maria. The Trail of Treats has been an Island tradition for more than two decades. Though COVID-19 caused a two-year hiatus, the event came back this year on Oct. 31.

In addition to the candy collecting, the Chamber also sponsored a costume contest as a kick-off for the event in Holmes Beach. Participants in the event and costume contest came from the Island and as far away as Sweden and Germany.

- Jason Schaffer | Sun

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Letter to the Editor: Thank you, Bayfest supporters

Written by SUN contributor on . Posted in Letter to the Editor, Opinion.

On behalf of the Anna Maria Island Chamber of Commerce, we would like to take this opportunity to extend a big “thank you” to the many amazing individuals and organizations who helped us organize and produce the 21st Bayfest, many of whom are the same individuals who continue to help us year after year! Those include, but certainly are not limited to:

CrossPointe Fellowship – thank you for your continued support every year. Your team works tirelessly day and night to make this event organized and successful. We cannot do this event without you!

Surfrider Foundation – thank you for making this event green! Working with CrossPointe Fellowship and Waste Management, beverages were sold mostly in aluminum cans and bottles, which were disposed of in recycle receptacles at the event, then put into a recycle dumpster. Also, many event sponsors donated koozies to keep these beverages cold!

To our volunteers – thank you for always being there for us, for your continued service with a welcoming smile that our festival vendors and attendees look forward to seeing! You are the force of this free family event!

To our sponsors – thank you for your continued generosity. Through your donations, we have been able to accomplish another Bayfest and to continue providing scholarships for college and technical institute tuitions. We are extremely grateful for the difference you make towards fostering community spirit.

To our vendors – thank you for your dedication to providing exceptional and amazing arts, crafts, products, services and delicious food! We look forward to seeing you again next year!

To our bands – thank you for bringing an unprecedented energy to this event that brings people from all over to hear your music!

And to the attendees – thank you for coming to this event from near and far, and your continued patronage for more than 20 years.

Terri Kinder, President

AMI Chamber of Commerce

Bayfest scheduled to return Oct. 15-16

Written by Joe Hendricks on . Posted in Entertainment, Events, Festivals.

ANNA MARIA – Hosted by the Anna Maria Island Chamber of Commerce, Bayfest 2021 is scheduled to take place Friday, Oct. 15 and Saturday, Oct. 16.

Barring any COVID-19 or weather-related complications, Bayfest will be staged on and along Pine Avenue in Anna Maria.

On Thursday, Aug. 12, the Anna Maria City Commission unanimously approved the Chamber’s special event permit and permit fee waiver request with the caveat that the special event permit could later be rescinded if necessary due to the recent increase in COVID-19 cases.

Chamber President Terri Kinder presented the special permit request, accompanied by Chamber Board of Directors Chairperson Bev Kilpatrick and Member Services Coordinator Laurie Micciche.

Bayfest scheduled to return on Oct. 15-16
Chamber representatives Bev Kilpatrick, Terri Kinder and Laurie Micciche presented the Chamber’s special event permit request. – Joe Hendricks | Sun

Kinder told the commission there’s a great deal of enthusiasm regarding this year’s Bayfest celebration. Kinder said Bayfest 2021 already has a record number of sponsors and between 50 and 60 arts and crafts vendors have already signed up and paid their entry fees.

“We’ve been having a huge response to Bayfest for this year. Vendors are excited,” she said.

Kinder noted Bayfest 2020 was canceled due to the COVID pandemic and Bayfest 2019 was held at The Center in a limited manner due to a tropical storm.

In celebration of its 20th anniversary, this year’s Bayfest will include a special kickoff event on Friday, Oct. 15 from 5 to 8 p.m. at City Pier Park. The kickoff will feature live music and food and beer vendors. The regular Bayfest activities will take place on Saturday, Oct. 16 from 10 a.m. until 9 p.m. and will include the traditional car show, live music, food and alcohol vendors, arts and crafts vendors and more.

Commissioner Jon Crane noted COVID-19 “is coming back with a vengeance” and he asked Kinder if the chamber was taking any specific COVID-related safety measures. After noting the two-day event will take place outside and there is no state or city mandate requiring masks, Kinder said, “What we intend to do is post signs to let attendees know masks are strongly recommended for the event. We reached out to Manatee County Department of Health and we now have 4,000 masks on hand that we can distribute.”

“Good. Thank you,” Crane said.

Mayor Dan Murphy said, “The one point we need to make clear – and we went through this the last time – is that if the COVID changes, the commission may revisit this permit. They may come back at some point in time and say we need to revisit this. I want to make sure we all understand that we’re not locked in. If things don’t make sense going forward, we’re going to have to do something about it. We can’t allow having a super spreader.”

“The Chamber agrees. We want to do what’s best,” Kinder said.

“I look forward to the event. We’re pleased to have you here and you always do an excellent job. It’s so organized. It’s a great event. It’s one that we hope we can keep here in our city and that you don’t take it anywhere else,” Murphy said.

“This is its home,” Kinder responded.

Commission Chair Carol Carter asked if some past issues regarding business entrances being impacted by Bayfest had been resolved.

“The last real Bayfest on the street was 2018. There were absolutely no problems at all. The businesses were very happy,” Kinder said, noting the festival layout was changed to negate the impact on business entrances.

22nd Annual AMI Chamber Golf Tournament another big success

22nd Annual AMI Chamber Golf Tournament another big success

Written by Jason Schaffer on . Posted in Golf, Sports.

BRADENTON – Golfers of all skill levels came out to enjoy a day on the links and support a great cause at this year’s Anna Maria Island Chamber of Commerce Golf Tournament. The match was once again held at the IMG Academy Golf Club in Bradenton, a course known to be challenging for even the most skilled golfers, but enjoyable for players of all skill levels. 

22nd Annual AMI Chamber Golf Tournament another big success
Golfers prepare to tee off at the AMI Chamber Golf Tournament. – Jason Schaffer | Sun

“As you can see, it’s a very unforgiving course, but this is a great tournament and a lot of fun,” said a golfer who had just hit his tee shot into a pond. That particular hole offered a new Cadillac to any golfer that could sink a 170-yard hole-in-one. The Cadillac didn’t go home with anyone at this year’s tournament, but thanks to the generosity of many area businesses, there was an abundance of great swag for the field.

22nd Annual AMI Chamber Golf Tournament another big success
Prizes for the tournament were offered by local businesses. – Jason Schaffer | Sun

The tournament, now in its 22nd year, is held every May, and benefits the Chamber’s Scholarship Program. This year, the Chamber is awarding a $1,000 scholarship to a Manatee County graduating senior seeking a four-year degree, and a $1,000 scholarship to a Manatee County graduating senior seeking local trade or career-focused education.

Applications for the 2021 scholarships have already been accepted, and the Chamber will award them Thursday, March 25 at the AMI Chamber Business Card Exchange meeting. Scholarships are funded by the annual golf tournament, as well as other events held by the Chamber.

Events

Written by SUN contributor on . Posted in Archives.

Here’s your local guide to Anna Maria Island events, beaches, parks, preserves, community centers, libraries, chamber happenings and more!

Monday, May 10

Prevention Plus health screening, Soiree Room, The Center of Anna Maria Island, 407 Magnolia Ave., Anna Maria, costs vary by test. No prescriptions required. Reserve to 1-888-667-7587.

Tuesday, May 11

Farmer’s Market, City Pier Park, 101 N. Bay Blvd., Anna Maria, 8:30 a.m. to 2 p.m.

RoserRobics, Roser Church, 512 Pine Ave., Anna Maria, 9:30 a.m., no cost but donations welcome. Participants asked to bring bottled water and wear a face mask or shield.

Wednesday, May 12

Beach market, Coquina Beach, 2650 Gulf Drive S., Bradenton Beach, 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.

Thursday, May 13

AMI Chamber Sunrise Breakfast, Compass Hotel, 12324 Manatee Ave. W., Bradenton, 7:30 a.m., $10 for members or $18 for prospective members. Reserve to becky@amichamber.org.

Farm stand, Holmes Beach City Hall, 5801 Marina Drive, Holmes Beach, 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.

RoserRobics, Roser Church, 512 Pine Ave., Anna Maria, 9:30 a.m., no cost but donations welcome. Participants asked to bring bottled water and wear a face mask or shield.

Thursdays in Paradise Stroll featuring local art, music and food, Bridge Street, Bradenton Beach, 5 to 8 p.m.

Marshall Tucker Band, The Center of Anna Maria Island, 407 Magnolia Ave., Anna Maria, 6 p.m. Tickets on sale at www.centerami.org.

Friday, May 14

Beach market, Coquina Beach, 2650 Gulf Drive S., Bradenton Beach, 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.

Anna Maria Island Chamber of Commerce 22nd Annual Golf Tournament benefitting the scholarship fund, IMG Academy Golf Club, 4350 El Conquistador Pkwy., Bradenton, 11:30 a.m. Reserve to 941-778-1541 or info@amichamber.org.

Palma Sola Cleanup and Seaside Safari, Palma Sola Causeway Park, 9917 Manatee Ave. W., Bradenton, 6 to 8 p.m. Reservations required at www.eventbrite.com/e/151211962049.

Saturday, May 15

Robinson Runners, Robinson Preserve Mosaic Nest, 840 Ninth Ave. N.W., Bradenton, 8 a.m.

Saturday mornings at the NEST, Robinson Preserve Mosaic Nest, 840 Ninth Ave. N.W., Bradenton, 9 a.m. to noon. Face masks required.

Sunday, May 16

Rise and Shine Power Flow Yoga, Robinson Preserve Mosaic Nest, 840 Ninth Ave. N.W., Bradenton 10:30 a.m. to 11:45 a.m., $10 fee payable online. Bring your own yoga mat. Register at https://parks.mymanatee.org/wbwsc/webtrac.wsc/search.html?primarycode=110006 or call 941-742-5923 ext. 6042 for more information.

Tuesday, May 18

Stroller Stroll, Robinson Preserve expansion kayak launch, 840 Ninth Ave. N.W., Bradenton, 10 a.m. Reservations required to coral.bass@mymanatee.org or 941-742-5923 ext. 6034.

Wednesday, May 19

Beach market, Coquina Beach, 2650 Gulf Drive S., Bradenton Beach, 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.

Golfing for God, IMG Academy Golf Club, 4350 El Conquistador Pkwy., Bradenton, 2:45 p.m. tee time, 5:30 p.m. bible study and dinner, $40 for golf and dinner, $20 for dinner. Reservations required. Reserve to www.roserchurch.com/g4g/.

Thursday, May 20

Seashell Shore Walk, Coquina Beach, 2650 Gulf Drive S., Bradenton Beach, 9 a.m. Registration required at www.eventbrite.com/e/149739748619.

RoserRobics, Roser Church, 512 Pine Ave., Anna Maria, 9:30 a.m., no cost but donations welcome. Participants asked to bring bottled water and wear a face mask or shield.

Farm stand, Holmes Beach City Hall, 5801 Marina Drive, Holmes Beach, 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.

Thursdays in Paradise Stroll featuring local art, music and food, Bridge Street, Bradenton Beach, 5 to 8 p.m.

Friday, May 21

Beach market, Coquina Beach, 2650 Gulf Drive S., Bradenton Beach, 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.

Saturday, May 22

Robinson Runners, Robinson Preserve Mosaic Nest, 840 Ninth Ave. N.W., Bradenton, 8 a.m.

Saturday mornings at the NEST, Robinson Preserve Mosaic Nest, 840 Ninth Ave. N.W., Bradenton, 9 a.m. to noon. Face masks required.

Tortoise talks, Valentine House lawn, Robinson Preserve, 1704 99th St. N.W., Bradenton, 2 p.m.

Sunday, May 23

Rise and Shine Power Flow Yoga, Robinson Preserve Mosaic Nest, 840 Ninth Ave. N.W., Bradenton 10:30 a.m. to 11:45 a.m., $10 fee payable online. Bring your own yoga mat. Register at https://parks.mymanatee.org/wbwsc/webtrac.wsc/search.html?primarycode=110006 or call 941-742-5923 ext. 6042 for more information.

Tuesday, May 25

RoserRobics, Roser Church, 512 Pine Ave., Anna Maria, 9:30 a.m., no cost but donations welcome. Participants asked to bring bottled water and wear a face mask or shield.

What’s open

The Island Branch Library is open at 60% capacity. Please wear a face mask/covering. The Tingley Memorial Library is open.

The Center of Anna Maria Island is open with social distancing and face masks required.

The Holmes Beach dog park (Scentral Park), skate park, basketball courts, pickleball courts and tennis courts are open.

Local preserves are open, including Grassy Point Preserve, Neal Preserve, Perico Preserve and Robinson Preserve.

Local beaches are open.

Island Chamber starts the holiday season

Island Chamber starts the holiday season

Written by SUN contributor on . Posted in Community News, Featured.

HOLMES BEACH – It’s beginning to look a lot more like Christmas, with the holiday decorations up and the Christmas tree of lights shimmering at the Anna Maria Island Chamber of Commerce.

Despite a rainy night, dozens of people gathered in front of the Chamber in Holmes Beach on Dec. 4 to take part in the annual tree lighting, which featured music and a visit from Santa Claus courtesy of his pirate elves, the Anna Maria Island Privateers. Hot apple cider and individually-wrapped sweet treats were provided by the members of CrossPointe Fellowship Church. The tree, sponsored by Anthony’s Cooling, Heating and Electrical, lit up the night sky right on time at 6 p.m., drawing cheers from the masked crowd in attendance.

In addition to the festivities at the Chamber, local businesses also were welcoming visitors with treats of their own.

At Sun and Surf Beach Shop, visitors were greeted by the shop’s birds and a table full of individually-wrapped treats. A little further down at the Artists’ Guild Gallery, shoppers were invited to shop right from the gallery’s Christmas trees, choosing from a selection of handmade ornaments. At RE/MAX, the ladies of the realty company greeted passersby with sweet treats. Both Irene’s clothing boutique and The Original Sand Dollar were open for business, with children able to make their own Christmas ornaments at the Sand Dollar while parents were serenaded by violinist Danae Tran.

And while this year’s festivities were somewhat more subdued than in years past, it didn’t stop anyone in attendance from enjoying a festive start to the holiday season.

Delighted by the lights, a little child enjoys playing in the Christmas tree. - Kristin Swain | Sun

Delighted by the lights, a little child enjoys playing in the Christmas tree. - Kristin Swain | Sun

A game of chase breaks out in the Chamber parking lot before the Dec. 4 tree lighting. - Kristin Swain | Sun

A game of chase breaks out in the Chamber parking lot before the Dec. 4 tree lighting. - Kristin Swain | Sun

While kids couldn’t climb in the sleigh with Santa this year, they were able to tell him what they wanted and take a socially distanced photo with the big guy. - Kristin Swain | Sun

While kids couldn’t climb in the sleigh with Santa this year, they were able to tell him what they wanted and take a socially distanced photo with the big guy. - Kristin Swain | Sun

In lieu of elves, Santa brought along some of his favorite pirates from the Anna Maria Island Privateers. - Kristin Swain | Sun

In lieu of elves, Santa brought along some of his favorite pirates from the Anna Maria Island Privateers. - Kristin Swain | Sun

The ladies of RE/MAX greet passersby with a smile and a selection of sweet treats. - Kristin Swain

The ladies of RE/MAX greet passersby with a smile and a selection of sweet treats. - Kristin Swain

Children wanting to add a little sparkle to their family’s tree were invited to make their own ornaments using seashells at The Sand Dollar. - Kristin Swain | Sun

Children wanting to add a little sparkle to their family’s tree were invited to make their own ornaments using seashells at The Sand Dollar. - Kristin Swain | Sun

Violinist Danae Tran enchants visitors to The Sand Dollar with a selection of holiday tunes. - Kristin Swain | Sun

Violinist Danae Tran enchants visitors to The Sand Dollar with a selection of holiday tunes. - Kristin Swain | Sun

Santa greets a bashful little Santa in training. - Kristin Swain | Sun

Santa greets a bashful little Santa in training. - Kristin Swain | Sun

Volunteers from the Chamber and CrossPointe Fellowship Church hand out cups of hot apple cider and individually-wrapped treats to attendees at the tree lighting ceremony. - Kristin Swain | Sun

Volunteers from the Chamber and CrossPointe Fellowship Church hand out cups of hot apple cider and individually-wrapped treats to attendees at the tree lighting ceremony. - Kristin Swain | Sun

Chamber, Rotary honor businesses

Written by Joe Hendricks on . Posted in Anna Maria Island Chamber of Commerce, Business.

ANNA MARIA ISLAND – The Anna Maria Island Chamber of Commerce has named its Businesses of the Year and its nonprofit organization of 2021.

In conjunction, the Rotary Club of Anna Maria has named its Businessperson of the Year for 2020.

The Center of Anna Maria Island is the Chamber’s 2021 Nonprofit of the Year, AMI Beach Weddings is the Chamber’s 2021 Small Business of the Year, Ocean-Aire Conditioning is the Chamber’s 2021 Medium Business of the Year, and Barnes Walker is the Chamber’s 2021 Large Business of the Year.

Former Swordfish Grill General Manager Bob Slicker is the Anna Maria Island Rotary Club’s Businessperson of 2020.

The honors were bestowed upon the unknowing winners during a Thursday, Nov. 19 ceremony held on the patio of the Beach House restaurant in Bradenton Beach.

Rotarian Laurie Beppler presented Slicker with his award.

“Bob is a true humanitarian,” Beppler said, citing Slicker’s work with the Blessing Bags Project and Hurricane Laura victims in Lake Charles, La. among his many charitable endeavors.

When accepting the award, Slicker said, “Things like this happen by surrounding yourself with good people. I feel blessed and grateful. Thank you all so very much.”

Chamber President Terri Kinder then called up the members of this year’s Chamber awards committee.

Committee member Karen LaPensee, of LaPensee Plumbing Pools & Air, recognized this year’s finalists and asked them to gather at the front of the room before the committee members announced the winners.

“And to the winners we go,” LaPensee said when introducing the Nonprofit of the Year.

“Our winner in this category has been a backbone in our community for 50 years. Ever evolving, they’ve strived to advance the overall well-being of individuals for all ages, preserve a sense of community and offer creative programming and partnership,” LaPensee said.

Island Players’ board member Diane Phinney then announced The Center as this year’s winner.

Jim McDaniel and David Zaccagnino accepted the award on The Center’s behalf.

“Every business here knows we’ve had obstacles in 2020, especially being a nonprofit. Jim and Chris (Culhane) have done an outstanding job and we couldn’t do it without our community,” Zaccagnino said.

Moving on, LaPensee said, “The winner of the 2021 Small Business of the Year started their business from scratch. Continuously involved with the community and striving to improve the business through excellent customer service, she has provided the weddings of her client’s dreams.”

AAA Payroll Services co-founder Mike Southwick announced AMI Beach Weddings as the winner.

When accepting the award, owner Karen Riley-Love said, “I want to thank my son Jack. He helps me with my weddings. He is my organizer and keeps me calm and centered and makes sure everything is where it needs to be.”

Moving on, LaPensee said, “The winner of the Medium Business of the Year believes their key to success is communication with staff and customers. In an ever-changing world, the coronavirus has added significant issues to overcome. Challenging and adapting, they have exceeded their previous sales records. Their motto: ‘The virus will not stop them.’ ”

Suzanne Arbanas, of the Compass by Margaritaville, then announced Ocean-Aire Conditioning as the winner.

“I appreciate this very much. I’ve been in business here since 1979. It’s a long time – and seeing so many changes, I hope the new ones help. Bless you all,” owner Bill Long said.

When presenting the final award, LaPensee said, “The winners of the Large Business of the Year focus on providing timely, precise and practical solutions to their customers. Surviving the ‘great recession,’ their business dropped 83%, to rebound and grow to 45 employees. They continue to encourage shared values, open communication and a strong belief in excellence and community.”

Mixon Fruit Farms co-owner Janet Mixon then announced Barnes Walker, a five-office law firm and title company, as the winner.

When accepting the award, Branch Manager Faith Test said, “I like to say we make peoples’ dreams come true. Thank you all.”

Laurie Beppler, left, of the Anna Maria Island Rotary Club, presents the Businessperson of the Year award to Bob Slicker. - Joe Hendricks | Sun

Laurie Beppler, left, of the Anna Maria Island Rotary Club, presents the Businessperson of the Year award to Bob Slicker. - Joe Hendricks | Sun

Barnes Walker Branch Manager Faith Test, left, receives the Large Business of the Year Award from Janet Mixon. - Joe Hendricks | Sun

Barnes Walker Branch Manager Faith Test, left, receives the Large Business of the Year Award from Janet Mixon. - Joe Hendricks | Sun

Ocean-Aire Conditioning owner Bill Long, left, receives the Medium Business of the Year Award from Suzanne Arbanas. - Joe Hendricks | Sun

Ocean-Aire Conditioning owner Bill Long, left, receives the Medium Business of the Year Award from Suzanne Arbanas. - Joe Hendricks | Sun

Jim McDaniel, left, and David Zaccagnino received The Center’s Nonprofit of the Year Award. - Joe Hendricks | Sun

Jim McDaniel, left, and David Zaccagnino received The Center’s Nonprofit of the Year Award. - Joe Hendricks | Sun

Karen Riley-Love, left, won the Small Business of the Year Award, accompanied by her son, Jack. - Joe Hendricks | Sun

Karen Riley-Love, left, won the Small Business of the Year Award, accompanied by her son, Jack. - Joe Hendricks | Sun

Bayfest 2020 postponed due to COVID concerns

Bayfest 2020 postponed due to COVID-19 concerns

Written by Joe Hendricks on . Posted in Anna Maria.

ANNA MARIA – The Anna Maria Island Chamber of Commerce’s 20th annual Bayfest celebration has been postponed indefinitely due to the COVID-19 pandemic.

Chamber officials hoped to host a two-day Bayfest event on and along Pine Avenue beginning with a parade on Friday, Oct. 16, concluding with the traditional Bayfest activities on Saturday, Oct. 17.

During Thursday’s meeting, the Anna Maria City Commission delayed the approval of the chamber’s special event permit request that had been previously and tentatively approved on June 11.

Mayor Dan Murphy prefaced Thursday’s discussion by noting that when the permit was approved in June, it was stated that the permitting approval might have to be re-evaluated as the Bayfest date drew closer.

Bev Kilpatrick and Cathy Pizzo represented the chamber at Thursday’s meeting.

Kilpatrick told the commission the chamber planned to take all necessary precautions to help ensure the safety of the Bayfest volunteers, chamber members, festival attendees and vendors. She said the precautions would include limited entry and exit points; mandatory masks for all attendees and participants, temperature checks for volunteers and chamber members, plexiglass partitions and 6-foot social distancing requirements.

Pizzo said approximately 40 vendors expressed initial interest in participating in Bayfest 2020.

Commission Chair Carol Carter asked how many people attend Bayfest at a time. Pizzo guessed there might be 1,500 people in attendance at any given time.

Commissioner Mark Short noted the city remains under a declared local state of emergency due to the ongoing pandemic. Murphy said the local state of emergency and the city’s indoor mask mandate would not preclude an outdoor festival from taking place.

Commissioner Joe Muscatello noted the city already canceled its Veterans Day parade scheduled for early November. Carter noted the city previously canceled its Memorial Day and Fourth of July celebrations and the Thanks-Living potluck dinner at City Pier Park is not taking place this year.

Carter said she was concerned about the impact a large gathering might have on the city’s elderly residents.

Commissioner Jon Crane said, “This particular chamber is one of best I’ve seen, but I’m very conservative about crowds. I’m really concerned about that. I’d love you guys to do well, but I don’t want my constituents to get sick.”

Muscatello asked if postponing Bayfest until early 2021 might provide the chamber with a more successful event in terms of fundraising. He was told Bayfest would be the third AMI Chamber fundraiser to be canceled this year, preceded by a food truck festival and a golf tournament. It was noted these three events account for a significant portion of the chamber’s event-oriented fundraising efforts.

“It’s a great event. The chamber is invaluable to the Island, but like Commissioner Crane, I do share the same concerns of having potentially several thousand people walking the streets of the city,” Short said.

Bayfest 2020 postponed due to COVID concerns
City commissioners were concerned about large Bayfest crowds walking the streets during the ongoing pandemic. – Tom Vaught | Sun

Short noted mandatory masks and maintaining 6 feet of social distancing can be difficult to enforce at large gatherings and it would only take one carful of people coming into the festival without masks to create a chaotic situation.

“I have big concerns about the timing of the event, given we’re still not through the COVID issue at this point in time,” Short said.

Muscatello said he was sorry to make the motion to delay approval of the special event permit. He said he hopes the city will do all it can to help ensure that Bayfest is a success if held early next year. The commission voted 5-0 to delay the special event permit issuance.

Kilpatrick and Pizzo said they understood the commission’s concerns, appreciated the city’s support and want to continue the successful partnership that exists between the chamber and the city.

Last year’s Bayfest was held at The Center of Anna Maria Island due to inclement weather.

Bayfest 2.0 carries on despite Nestor

Bayfest 2.0 carries on despite Nestor

Written by Tom Vaught on . Posted in Entertainment, Events, Family fun, Festivals.

ANNA MARIA – As the wind whipped across the Island Friday, Anna Maria Island Chamber of Commerce President Terry Kinder knew that Bayfest, the Chamber’s signature fundraiser, was in jeopardy of missing a year for the first time in its 19-year run.

After a meeting with Anna Maria Mayor Dan Murphy and representatives from arts and crafts vendors, food vendors and others, the decision was made to hold the event at The Center of Anna Maria Island. Due to space constraints, there were no craft vendors, auto show or kid’s zone, but the adults came out to listen to local musicians and enjoy the food, drinks and company of their fellow islanders indoors, away from the storm.

The majority of musical acts planned for the main stage at Bayfest embraced the new venue, including the popular Dr. Dave Band. Three local restaurants, The Fest, Tortilla Bay and The Ugly Grouper, all stepped up to provide food and drinks for the festivities along with other vendors providing sodas and beer.

The start time of noon allowed some of the water flooding the streets from the passage of Tropical Storm Nestor to drain away and locals and visitors alike came out to The Center to celebrate Bayfest and dance the night away, at least until 9 p.m. Though it wasn’t the Bayfest that locals have come to know and love, it proved that the Island community will come together to support each other against all odds, and that a little rain can’t stop the party on Anna Maria Island.

“Looks like a good crowd, considering all we went through,” said Corinn Tippett, a server at The Feast booth.

Nestor did little damage on the Island and Bayfest went on despite the odds against it. For their part, the members of the Chamber hope to not have to deal with temperamental weather during next year’s festivities and return the fundraiser to its traditional Pine Avenue venue.

“We knew we weren’t going to recover (financially) from this, but we had a one-day liquor license and we had to use it Saturday,” said Kinder. “Perhaps we won’t have to deal with this ever again. At least I hope not.”

Storm moves Bayfest inside to The Center

Written by Cindy Lane on . Posted in Featured.

ANNA MARIA – Tropical Storm Nestor is pushing Saturday’s Bayfest indoors from its traditional Pine Avenue location to The Center of Anna Maria Island, 407 Magnolia Ave.

The free festival, scheduled for Saturday, Oct. 19, will begin at noon instead of 10 a.m., and remain open until 9 p.m.

The classic car show and arts and crafts vendors are canceled, according to the Anna Maria Island Chamber of Commerce.

But “Bayfest 2.0 – Reimagined!” will still offer live music with the Trevor Bystrom Band, Memphis Rub, soulRcoaster, the Dr. Dave Band and the Karen & Jimmy Band, with Mike Sales as emcee.

A limited number of food vendors and a beer truck will be at The Center. No coolers or outside alcohol are allowed.

Parking and shuttles to and from The Center will be available at CrossPointe Fellowship, 8605 Gulf Drive in Holmes Beach and Roser Memorial Church, 512 Pine Ave. in Anna Maria.

The decision to relocate the festival was made because the storm could produce torrential downpours and local flooding, according to chamber officials.

Tropical storm Nestor, currently over the central Gulf of Mexico, is moving northeast at 22 mph and is expected to reach the Florida Panhandle early Saturday morning. Primary concerns along Florida’s west coast are heavy rainfall and minor to moderate coastal flooding, especially from Tampa Bay north, according to the National Weather Service’s p.m. report.

Four chosen for chamber scholarships

Four chosen for chamber scholarships

Written by SUN contributor on . Posted in Anna Maria, Anna Maria Island, Anna Maria Island Chamber of Commerce, Bradenton Beach, Community News, Holmes Beach.

The four members of the Anna Maria Island Scholarship Committee – Bev Lesnick, Wendy Webb, Mike Southwick and Amy Tobin – distributed scholarships to four students at a ceremony on Thursday, April 19 at the Chamber.

The four scholars were chosen from a record number of applicants, according to Chamber President Terri Kinder.

This has been the highest application response the program has seen. Applicants came from a wide variety of Manatee County schools including St. Stephens, Manatee, Bayshore, Lakewood Ranch, Southeast, Palmetto, Manatee School for the Arts, Bradenton Christian and State College of Florida.

The recipients are:

  • Emma Johnson, a Manatee High School senior, who took first place in the Manatee Science Fair. Johnson has volunteered her time as president of the Science National Honor Society, a member of the Key Club, marching band, private tutor and after-care teacher. Her GPA of 4.0 unweighted and 4.7155 weighted makes her the number one ranked senior in her class. She plans to attend Bates College in Lewiston, Maine for a degree in Biology.
  • Ava Clinton, a senior at Manatee School for the Arts has balanced leadership in clubs, volunteer work or working 25 to 30 hours a week while she maintained her class ranking as first in her senior class. Coming from a single parent home she learned to be creative, such as in competing in the “Recycled Dreams Fashion Competition.” She constructed a ball gown out of Walmart shopping bags and cereal boxes to win it. Ava has overcome many challenges to become successful in college already through the Early Admissions program. She will study Biology and Environmental Science at the University of Florida.
  • Gabriela Guardiola will be the first in her family to pursue a post-secondary education. As a student at Bayshore High School, she was involved in the AVID (Achievement Via Individual Determination) college prep program. While maintaining herself in the top one percent of her class of 350 Gabriela also will attain her A.A. degree at the same time, she graduates with her high school diploma. She aspires to become a forensic psychologist to help rehabilitate mentally ill people in the community, those who have harmed others and themselves. To achieve this goal Gabriela wishes to enroll at Florida Gulf Coast University.
  • Bayshore High School senior Orbilia Matiano has shown the motivation to achieve her scholastic goals, evidenced by the AVID 4.0 GPA award while actively involved in the Key Club, school newspaper, JROTC and taking leadership roles. Her desire is to obtain her Associate’s degree in diagnostic medical sonography at State College of Florida.        This scholarship is a new one from the Chamber for students who want to study, graduate and work in Manatee County. It is called Stay, Learn and Live.
chamber tree lighting music

Crowds celebrate in Holmes Beach

Written by Tom Vaught on . Posted in Entertainment, Events, Family fun, Holiday.

HOLMES BEACH – It was a celebration of community and the start of the holiday season as residents and visitors alike gathered for the annual lighting of the Christmas tree at the Anna Maria Island Chamber of Commerce.

chamber tree lighting
The Island Chamber’s tree-lighting ceremony drew several hundred revelers enjoying the festivities of the Holmes Beach Holiday Open House. – Kristin Swain | Sun

Businesses reported that more people than the previous year turned out for the Holiday Open House Friday night, held in the city’s central business district near the intersection of Gulf and Marina Drives. It might have been the perfect weather or cabin fever from the past weeks of red tide, but the visitors also spent money, which the merchants needed.

The open house also included A Paradise Realty’s 2018 Toys for Tots wine and tapas tasting with Hurricane Hank’s supplying the food and wine.

The celebration started around the Anna Maria Island Chamber of Commerce, sponsor of the annual event. The crowd gathered in the Chamber parking lot, sampling cookies and listening to music provided by CrossPointe Fellowship. Revelers also were greeted by the pirates of the Anna Maria Island Privateers and had the opportunity to climb aboard Santa’s sleigh to tell the man himself what they want for Christmas.

larry wilhelm ebenezer scrooge
Larry Wilhelm, dressed as Ebenezer Scrooge, entertained attendees by playing Christmas carols outside of the Artists’ Guild of Anna Maria Island. – Kristin Swain | Sun

In years past, many people headed for the shopping centers before the Christmas tree lighting, but this year scrumptious snacks at Aqua Aveda next to the Chamber kept the visitors around. There was a “Christmas Vacation” moment when the tree’s lights came on, then all of the lights in the parking lot went off. It was only temporary, and the lights came back on and stayed that way, receiving a round of cheers and applause from onlookers.

The shops and art outlets reported good sales and the Toys for Tots donations also were plentiful. The merchants were thankful and hopeful that the event was the start of a business rebound from the lingering effects of red tide.

Island business awards announced

Written by Tom Vaught on . Posted in Business, Featured.

CORTEZ – It was a bittersweet honor for John Horne on Friday night at the Anna Maria Island Chamber of Commerce Annual Awards Ceremony and Board of Directors Installation at the Seafood Shack.

Rotary Club of Anna Maria Island co-directors Judy Rup and Dennis Schuermann awarded the Rotary Club’s Businessperson of the Year award to the Anna Maria Oyster Bar owner.

Anna Maria Oyster Bar owner John Horne, center, with Judy Rup and Dennis Schuermann of the Rotary Club of Anna Maria Island after they presented him the Businessperson of the Year award. – Tom Vaught | Sun

Horne was overwhelmed with emotion when he said he was receiving the award a week after the passing of his mother. He said it was also his parents’ 61st anniversary, noting his father was in the audience. He thanked the Rotary Club for the honor.

The Chamber announced the winners of the businesses of the year in four categories, adding a new category – Non Profit of the Year – to the small, medium and large business categories.

Dennis Schuermann displays the Rotary Club of Anna Maria Island’s award – the Anna Maria Island Chamber of Commerce Non Profit of the Year. – Tom Vaught | Sun

The first winner of the new Non Profit of the Year award is the Rotary Club of Anna Maria Island. Rotary co-directors Judy Rup and Dennis Schuermann accepted the award.

The Large Business of the Year award went to Duncan Real Estate.

Large Business of the Year
Karen LaPensee, left, presented Darcie Duncan, owner of Duncan Real Estate, the Large Business of the Year award. – Tom Vaught | Sun

Owner Darcie Duncan remarked about how all the businesses pulled together during the red tide event this summer and fall, saying she is proud to be a part of the Island business community.

In the Medium Business of the Year award, from five to 14 employees, the winner was Happy Paddler Kayak Tours.

Anna Maria Island Chamber of Commerce Board Member Karen LaPensee with Shane Catts, owner of Happy Paddler Kayak Tours, the winner of the Medium Business of the Year award. – Tom Vaught | Sun

“It all began with a couple of kayaks and a credit card,” owner Shane Catts said as he accepted his plaque.

The winner of the Chamber’s Small Business of the Year award for businesses up to four employees was Scott’s Deli. Scott Mason and his wife, Jane, accepted the award.

From left to right, Anna Maria Island Chamber of Commerce Board Member Karen LaPensee with Jane and Scott Mason, of Scott’s Deli, winners of the Small Business of the Year award. – Tom Vaught | Sun

The awards ceremony drew 127 people. John Rinnell provided the musical entertainment.

bayfest Soul R Coaster 2017

Bayfest on track

Written by Tom Vaught on . Posted in Entertainment, Featured, Festivals.

HOLMES BEACH – Vendors are still calling the Anna Maria Island Chamber of Commerce about the upcoming 18th Annual Bayfest celebration, in spite of the serious red tide outbreak that is cutting into the tourist business, according to Chamber President Teri Kinder.

In fact, all of the food vendor spots have been taken.

“We sold out early,” Kinder said. “I have to tell them that they’ll have to try next year.”

Kinder said nobody seems concerned that the red tide might intensify, despite the lack of an “all clear” from the agencies that monitor conditions in the Gulf of Mexico and Tampa Bay.

Bayfest, known as the Island’s first festival of the season, will be held Saturday, Oct. 20, from 10 a.m. to 9 p.m. along Pine Avenue in Anna Maria. Admission is free, those attending will be greeted with a wide choice of local food, live music, a Kid’s Zone for the youngsters and a classic and antique auto show. The Anna Maria Island Privateers also will bring their ship, the Skullywag.

Kinder said the classic auto show will be as big as ever.

“Car owners are calling daily to enter,” Kinder said. “We expect to have 100 vehicles at the show.”

The Chamber has not forgotten the damage the red tide has done to businesses and their employees.

Some of this year’s Bayfest festival proceeds will go directly to local tourism industry workers for disaster relief assistance.

Local workers affected by the red tide economic crises must sign up before Oct. 19 with the Chamber. A short application form has been posted on its website, info@amichamber.org. The form can also be picked up at the AMI Chamber, 5313 Gulf Drive in Holmes Beach, Monday through Friday between 9 a.m. and 5 p.m. as well as at the Roser Food Pantry during its regular hours. Call 941-778-0414 for Roser Food Pantry hours. Applicants may also call the Chamber to have a form emailed to them.

Completed application forms must be submitted no later than 5 p.m. on Friday, Oct. 19, along with employment verification in the form of a recent pay stub or letter from one’s employer.

All funds will be distributed to eligible registered applicants on Friday, Oct. 26, from 8 a.m. until 6 p.m. at CrossPointe Fellowship, 8605 Gulf Drive in Holmes Beach. Recipients must present a valid ID to receive their check.

To raise additional funds for this cause the AMI Chamber will be selling raffle tickets for an Island Experience, a basket full of local fun with gift certificates to stay, eat and play on the Island and the surrounding waters. Tickets are $5 each and will be sold at the Chamber prior to and at the festival all day during Bayfest. The raffle drawing will take place at 9 p.m. on the main stage at Bayfest. Winners need not be present to win. Gift certificates and items to be included in the raffle prize basket, as well as monetary donations for the relief fund itself, are being accepted at the Chamber. All of the raffle proceeds and monetary donations will go directly to eligible affected tourism industry workers.

For more information, contact the Chamber at 941-778-1541 or at info@amichamber.org.

AMI Chamber

Kinder ready to guide Chamber

Written by Tom Vaught on . Posted in Anna Maria Island Chamber of Commerce, Business.

HOLMES BEACH – When Deb Wing resigned as Anna Maria Island Chamber of Commerce last year, Vice President Terri Kinder and assistant Cathy Pizzo were promoted to acting president and vice president by the board of directors.

Last week, the board officially named the two to their positions permanently.

Kinder said last week she’s ready to assume the role and the board seemed to agree, as members did not interview anyone else for the position.

Originally from Ohio, Kinder has a varied background in the business world. In Dayton, she was a technical consultant for a large company and an education consultant with another. She and her husband moved to Sarasota where he had a job waiting for him. They moved around some more and ended up in Jacksonville. Finally, they returned to the Gulf Coast where she helped her husband establish his business. In her spare time, she volunteered for the Chamber.

“I enjoyed the people, and when they looked for someone to become vice president, they chose me,” she said. “I was very honored to help Deb Wing serve the businesses community.”

She said she is excited that Pizzo is continuing to serve as vice president.

What are her plans for the Chamber?

“I want to bring a new initiative to serve members,” she said. “I want to expand the ambassador program and to make an educational series for the members.”

She also said she wants to bring speakers in to talk about things important to the business community with an eye on new trends and opportunities for the businesses to succeed.