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Locals join hands to fight big government

Locals join hands to fight big government

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

HOLMES BEACH – A grassroots movement to bring awareness to Florida legislators’ efforts to consolidate or eliminate the three Anna Maria Island cities drew about 300 people to its first event, a peaceful protest on the sand.

The crowd gathered just north of Manatee Beach on April 13 for a Hands Across the Sand event held by Save Florida Home Rule, a group of residents, vacationers and property owners who want to stop the overreach of state government. Members of the group are vocally against the consolidation or elimination of the three Island cities as well as the construction of a parking garage at Manatee Beach.

Locals join hands to fight big government
Betty Dimmick waves a sign at the entrance to Manatee Beach in Holmes Beach directing protest participants to the meeting spot. – Kristin Swain | Sun

Joining hands, the group shouted, “Protect paradise” and “Keep your hands off our Island cities” as messages to Manatee County and Florida state lawmakers to stop governmental overreach and allow local municipalities to govern their own cities.

The parking garage bill passed the Legislature without protest in 2023. The bill allows for Manatee County commissioners to construct a garage at the beach property against city of Holmes Beach land development regulations and zoning codes. The garage bill was protested by residents, visitors, property owners and city elected officials, but those protests were ignored at the county and state levels. Resident and one of Save Florida Home Rule’s organizers, Barbara Ehren, wants to make sure that doesn’t happen again with the elimination of the cities.

“There is a group of people who are gathering together to save Anna Maria Island because we are very concerned about the move afoot in the Florida Legislature to either consolidate the cities or disband them and put them under either Bradenton or (unincorporated) Manatee County,” Ehren said. “We do not want to see that happen because we suspect, and I believe it’s more than a suspicion, that what would happen under those circumstances is we would lose our zoning and get lots of high-rises. And then lovely Anna Maria Island that everyone adores would become Miami Beach. The visitors don’t want that and those of us who live here don’t want that to happen.”

The group was joined by Holmes Beach Commissioners Pat Morton, Terry Schaefer and Carol Soustek, who all participated in the event.

Locals join hands to fight big government
Holmes Beach Commissioners Terry Schaefer, left, and Pat Morton lend their support to the community at the Hands Across the Sand event. – Kristin Swain | Sun

“This is the community,” Morton said, gesturing to the gathered residents, visitors and other concerned individuals. “I’m going to go out here to see if I can find some beach people to come and join us. This beach is for them too, it’s not just us. We’re trying to open up some people’s minds to what’s going on. A lot of people in Bradenton, over in Manatee County they think ‘Oh, it’s your problem.’ No, it’s your problem over there too. They don’t realize this is going to affect them too.”

“This is a citizens’ generated event today and that’s certainly what’s going to be most helpful in making everyone in our area, not just on our Island, aware of the threat of dissolution of our Island, our cities,” Schaefer said. “This is a first step in kind of igniting interest community-wide and getting people out physically to the beach to determine and show that there is a line of defense in supporting and maintaining our way of life and quality of life.”

Soustek joined other volunteers in helping to gather signatures on letters protesting the elimination of the three Island cities prior to the start of the event from participants. She said the letters are to be sent to state Rep. Will Robinson Jr. and Sen. Jim Boyd. The two are members of the Manatee County state legislative delegation and both support the parking garage and the state-sponsored Office of Program Policy Analysis and Government Accountability study looking at the possibility of eliminating the cities. The OPPAGA study is the first step toward a special act of the state Legislature eliminating or consolidating the three cities.

Locals join hands to fight big government
One of the event’s organizers, Barbara Ehren, thanks participants for showing up to lend their support to the peaceful protest. – Kristin Swain | Sun

The study is looking at four possibilities – consolidating the three cities into one new city, eliminating the cities and putting the Island under the jurisdiction of unincorporated Manatee County or the city of Bradenton, or leaving the cities as is. On a recent visit to Holmes Beach, Mayor Judy Titsworth said OPPAGA representatives were looking at eliminating the cities and putting them under the jurisdiction of unincorporated Manatee County, meaning that the county commissioners would decide all matters of government for the Island. The majority of county commissioners live east of I-75 and only one, at-large Commissioner George Kruse, frequently visits the Island to speak with residents and local elected officials. District Three Commissioner Kevin Van Ostenbridge is the county’s largest supporter of the removal of the existing historic cafe building at Manatee Beach and installing a three-story parking garage there. Building the garage would also mean that beach parking in all three Island cities would largely be paid parking instead of free for the public. Currently, Holmes Beach is the only Island city that does not allow paid parking.

To keep up and get involved in the ongoing effort to preserve the Island cities, visit www.facebook.com/savefloridahomerule or email savefloridahomerule@gmail.com. The group also has T-shirts, baseball caps and other items to help raise awareness for sale at the Anna Maria Island Historical Society Museum at 402 Pine Ave. in Anna Maria.

Get to know Suncoast Aqua Ventures

Written by Rusty Chinnis on . Posted in Outdoors, Reel Time.

From left, Suncoast Aqua Ventures founders Troy Brown, Cheryl Huntsinger and Robin Woloszyn at a cleanup hosted by the Bradenton Yacht Club. – Rusty Chinnis | Sun

Over the years, I’ve had the honor and pleasure of getting to know and work with many passionate and action-oriented citizens on the Suncoast, people who turn their concerns into accomplishments. While Suncoast Aqua Ventures was created by a handful of friends in 2016, in my experience there is, generally, a particular individual that inspires and exemplifies the spirit of the NGO (non-profit). In the case of Suncoast Aqua Ventures, that person is Cheryl Huntsinger. In her own words, she explains what inspires and drives the group.

“Troy Brown, Robin Woloszyn and I, along with a bunch of friends that scuba dive and love the water, became concerned with the human trash and debris we discovered on the offshore reefs and our inland waterways. In response, we created a one-of-a-kind competitive event called The Reef & Beach Cleanup. We give cash and prizes in numerous categories to the teams who compete. This is a fun, family-friendly event that, to date, has collected over 97,000 pounds of marine debris from our waterways. Our volunteers come from all ages and all walks of life. They are water enthusiasts, kayakers, fishermen, scuba divers and anyone who has a passion for our beautiful aquatic ecosystem.

”Post-COVID we started partnering with numerous other like-minded organizations, including Sarasota Bay Watch, Keep Manatee Beautiful, Suncoast Waterkeeper and Suncoast Reef Rovers. We perform targeted tactical cleanups in areas most people don’t even know trash exists – underwater reefs, shoreline cleanups deep in the mangroves and, when there is a need, post-hurricane cleanup events. Our partnership events have collected well over 130,000 pounds from numerous events since 2021.

“We have a busy summer planned, starting with the Second Annual Underwater Cleanup of the Manatee River on May 11. This event will be followed by a cleanup at Bowlees Creek based out of Bahia Mar West Marina on June 15, and a cleanup of Perico Bayou and Palma Sola Bay on Aug. 3. Our last event of the season will be the Eighth Annual Reef & Beach Cleanup on Sept. 28-29 at Seabreeze Park in Terra Ceia.

“We are always looking for new participants and donors to help fund our cleanup efforts! For more information on any of our events, please visit suncoastaquaventures.com or email us at suncoastaquaventures@gmail.com.”

It’s the work of these local NGOs, their leaders and members that inspire people to preserve this paradise and give them a way to participate in protecting it. If you’re looking for an opportunity to give back, join an event and, as Gandhi said, “Be the change you want to see in the world.”

Energize your home

Written by Louise Bolger on . Posted in Business, Castles in the Sand.

When you think of energy you probably think of power used to generate light and heat. But have you ever thought of the type of energy that isn’t physical or chemical, the kind that can’t be seen?

When it comes to improving your home, there are forces beyond updating and repairing. According to energy healers, you need to harmonize the property’s energy and honor previous owners. Using ancient spiritual practices and healing arts unblocking creativity, and creating tranquility and rejuvenation will result in a safer, wealthier and happier home.

This is a lighthearted column for me, but more than a few homeowners and their realtors are taking it very seriously. Across the county, house energy specialists are being hired to reset and elevate the home’s energy, especially if they’re getting it ready for sale or a potential buyer is viewing the property with an eye towards its energy fields.

Some of the healing techniques are a Celtic space-clearing blessing, tarot cards and a drowsing pendulum, something I never heard of until I read it and then I had to look it up. Apparently, the dowsing pendulum is used to observe the motion of a pointer or stick as it changes direction responding to unseen influences. Interesting, I wonder how that would work pointing it at potential buyers coming into your home, if it points up, they’re good if it points down, forget it?

Another popular healing practice is crystal healing, which, according to professional energy healers, is an oversimplification of the power of crystals. Realtors who are always looking for a way to make their homeowners happy are getting on board with crystals positioned around the inside and outside of the home to usher in vibrancy and aliveness. This process could come with steep fees in the thousands, not including the crystals and tarot cards.

I’m having some fun with all of this since my brain is more left-oriented than right, leaving my creative abilities and invisible energy untapped. But what do I know beyond the value of a renovated kitchen and spa tub? I do, however, have some interest and faith in feng shui.

I love the idea of a red entry door; aside from the fact that it looks smashing, it does encourage good energy to come in hopefully along with a good buyer. Red front doors mean good luck, protection, prosperity and the fire energy it represents makes the property stand out while promoting wealth and inspiration.

The other thing about feng shui that appeals to my left brain is following some basic house-selling rules. Declutter – open neat space allows the energy to flow and not get stuck, probably on your toddler’s three-wheeler hanging out in the kitchen. Soft colors, plants and strategic lighting are things realtors emphasize on a regular basis but are also elements of feng shui. The Chinese also like water elements in and around the home – that should be easy on Anna Maria Island – comfortable furniture (no wicker please) and natural textures.

I may not get the whole crystal energy thing but every homeowner needs to find their comfortable environment and how to achieve it. Since I love a lot of things associated with Asia, the food, the furniture and I do play Mahjongg, feng shui fits my sensibility and is acceptable to the left side of my brain.

Energy is powerful. Use it to your advantage.

‘Communicating Doors’ a hilarious time warp

‘Communicating Doors’ a hilarious time warp

Written by Jason Schaffer on . Posted in Entertainment, Theater.

ANNA MARIA – The Island Players continue their historic 75th season with Alan Ayckbourn’s “Communicating Doors.” Directed by veteran director Preston Boyd and stage managed by his talented wife, Priscilla Boyd, the show zigs and zags through times of hilarity and plenty of suspense. Even though the killer’s identity is clear in the first act, how this thing will end is certainly not.

The characters cross paths as the result of a door to a storage room in the hotel suite that works as a time machine, but not every character can use it, and it only works in 20 year “leaps” to the times each murdered ex-wife once stayed in the room: 1974, 1994 and 2014, the year Phoebe arrives to become the center of this time warp centric story.

Audiences may find themselves a bit confused at first, but the whisking into another time soon becomes as expected as it is frequent. With plenty of laugh lines and an abundance of physical comedy, the exact story doesn’t hold as much power as the fascinating action handled by experienced actors who know how to not only get the best out of a line, but also can manage falling over a balcony “wall,” having a head bounced against the floor and plenty more action that has most likely left more than one cast member with a bruise or two.

We first see a “special consultant” arrive in 2014 at a large London hotel suite. Phoebe (Morgan Powls), whose trade name is Poopay, finds that her client, Reece (Dan Coppinger), does not seek her usual services. A dying old man with a guilty conscience, he asks Phoebe to sign as a witness on his written confession of the long-ago murders of two different wives. He is accompanied by his long-time loyal assistant and friend, Julian (Joseph Smith) who executes the role of the quintessential bad guy with perceived ease.

Director Preston Boyd did an outstanding job in getting the most out of this talented cast of veteran actors, who overcame an illness that affected most of the actors and caused the delay of opening night. Audiences would never know many of the rehearsals were done virtually. Serious talent is on display, and the plot is one of the most unpredictable in recent Island Players history.

“Communicating Doors” is a can’t-miss, and it’s not difficult to see why this season continues to sell out just about every performance.

The show continues through March 24. “Communicating Doors,” runs Tuesday through Saturdays at 7:30 p.m. with Sunday matinees at 2 p.m. Both on-line and box office ticket sales are available for the remainder of the run. On-line at www.theislandplayers.org and box office at 941-778-5755. Box office hours are 9 a.m.-1 p.m. Monday through Saturday and one hour before curtain on Sundays for will call tickets only.

Surf shop celebrates 60

Surf shop celebrates 60

Written by Cindy Lane on . Posted in Business, Retail.

HOLMES BEACH – Jim Brady’s West Coast Surf Shop is in third place at age 60, with two other Anna Maria Island businesses having been here longer – Irene’s Resort Wear (1956) and Duffy’s Tavern, Bar and Grill (1958) – but the heat ain’t over ’til it’s over.

It was 1964, and Ride the Wild Surf was the big surf movie. Brady’s pals from Manatee High were dancing to the sounds of Jan and Dean and the Beach Boys on the roof of the Manatee Beach pavilion, sizing up suntans, swimsuits and steps.

But Brady’s mind was on a rescue surfboard that lifeguards Dave Miller and Phil Sims were letting him mess around on.

It’s the same old story, ever since the first wave rider caught the first wave. First, it nudges you from behind, catching you just right, then it picks you up and hurtles you forward until you’re walking on the water.

And another surfer is born.

At 16, Brady took surfing so seriously he opened the West Coast Surf Shop where the Anna Maria Island Chamber of Commerce is now, selling surfboards, wax and T-shirts.

His grandmother, Aida Brady, and his aunt, Carol Stevens, filled in for him while he went to class. When the surf was up and they weren’t around, he’d hang a sign on the door saying, “Gone surfing.” He remembers guys tracking him down in the water, wanting him to open up the store so they could buy some wax.

He moved to the current shop at 3902 Gulf Drive in 1979, just south of Manatee Beach and across Gulf Drive from Duffy’s original location.

It’s a family business. His wife, Ronee, is usually behind the counter, trademark pencil behind her ear. Their daughter, Brandi, also works there, and has been holding summer surf camp on the beach outside the shop for years. Her kids, Georgio Gomez and Izzi Gomez, are professional surfers based in California.

In 2011, the Bradys put the shop up for sale to spend more time on the surfing circuit with their grandkids. They never sold.

Brady says his surf shop is the oldest in Florida. Ron Jon’s in Cocoa Beach celebrated their 60th anniversary last year, but who can really remember what happened in the ‘60s?

“It’s been 60 years and we’re starting to get a little tired, but I don’t know if we’ll ever retire,” Brady said, adding that his daughter might take over the shop. “There’s nothing I like to do better. It’s what I’ve always done and what Ronee’s always done. We’re happy doing it, and as long as our health permits, hopefully we’ll hang in there.”

Beach House employee killed in Bradenton shooting

Beach House employee killed in Bradenton shooting

Written by Jason Schaffer on . Posted in Bradenton Beach, Community News.

BRADENTON – A Manatee High School wrestler and employee of the Beach House Waterfront Restaurant in Bradenton Beach was tragically killed in a March 8 shooting in Bradenton.

Manatee County Sheriff’s Office’s (MCSO) Public Information Officer Randy Warren said a suspect in the shooting has been arrested. The victim, Jann Michael Feeney, 17, known to friends and family as J.M., was said by friends and family to be a talented athlete with a great level of sportsmanship and a hard worker loved by his Beach House co-workers and many friends.

Shortly after 7 p.m. on March 8, MCSO deputies responded to a report of a shooting with injuries. When they arrived they found a 17-year-old male lying in the backyard of a residence with a gunshot wound to his chest. Deputies performed life-saving measures until EMS responded. The victim was pronounced dead at the scene.

“Witnesses told detectives multiple teenagers were hanging out in the backyard of a residence in the 5900 block of Eighth Avenue Drive West, Bradenton,” Warren said. “Through investigative means, detectives developed probable cause early the morning of March 9 to arrest Carter Layne, 17, for Manslaughter with a Firearm. He was taken into custody at his home in Parrish.”

Warren also said the investigation continues, and his department believes there are more individuals who were at the scene and may have information that will help paint the picture of exactly what happened. MCSO is currently working to speak with those individuals. According to Warren, alcohol was present at the party.

“This is exactly why guns can’t be in these types of situations,” Warren said. “This is a tragic case of a loss of life that could have been prevented, and our hope is to not see it happen again.”

The Beach House set up a GoFundMe page for the Feeney family with a goal of $12,500. As of the time this story was written, they had raised more than $30,000.

A celebration of life was held at The Center of Anna Maria Island on March 16, where friends and family gathered to remember the young man who was taken from them too soon. Anyone wishing to make a donation to the Feeney family can visit https://gofund.me/bdac2632.

Warren also said the investigation continues, and his department believes there are more individuals that were at the scene and may have information that will help paint the picture of exactly what happened. MCSO is currently working to speak with those individuals. According to Warren, alcohol was present at the party.

“This is exactly why guns can’t be in these types of situations,” Warren said. “This is a tragic case of a loss of life that could have been prevented, and our hope is to not see it happen again.”

The Beach House set up a GoFundMe page for the Feeney family with a goal of $12,500 goal. As of the time this story was written, they had raised more than $30,000. There was also a celebration of life held at the Center of Anna Maria Island March 16, where friends and family gathered to remember the young man who was taken from them for too soon. Anyone wishing to make a donation to the Feeney family can go to https://gofund.me/bdac2632. 

Mangrove jurisdiction differs by county

Written by Leslie Lake on . Posted in Environment, Featured, Outdoors.

ANNA MARIA – The outcome of the removal of 116 feet of mangroves to build a seawall at a Gull Drive home may have been different if the property had been located in Sarasota County instead of Manatee County.

A contractor removed some of the mangroves prior to receiving a federal permit, but had been granted an exemption from the state permit requirement by the Florida Department of Environmental Protection. After the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers granted the federal permit, the contractor removed the rest of the mangroves. No county permit was required.

“In Sarasota County, this wouldn’t happen” because the county has jurisdiction over mangroves under the 1996 Mangrove Trimming and Preservation Act. Suncoast Waterkeeper Executive Director Abbey Tyrna wrote in a March 7 email to The Sun. “If mangroves had to be removed to install a seawall, then mitigation would have had to take place.”

Under the act, “The department (FDEP) shall delegate its authority to regulate the trimming and alteration of mangroves to any local government that makes a written request for delegation.”

Sarasota is one of the few counties statewide, including Hillsborough, Pinellas, Miami-Dade and Broward, that have such authority.

Manatee County does not.

According to the act, most areas in which 5% or more of mangrove trees have been trimmed below 6 feet in height, destroyed, defoliated, or removed must be restored or mitigated.

“Restoration must be accomplished by replanting mangroves, in the same location and of the same species as each mangrove destroyed, defoliated, removed, or trimmed, to achieve within five years a canopy area equivalent to the area destroyed, removed, defoliated or trimmed,” according to the act.

The owner of the 111 Gull Drive property, Sharp Development, received a seawall exemption on Sept. 19, 2022 from the FDEP.

“There are multiple seawall exemptions in the Florida Administrative Code. One of the exemptions allows for construction of seawalls in artificially created waterways and within residential canal systems, which was the exemption used for the Gull Drive case,” FDEP spokesperson Brian Humphreys wrote in a Feb. 2 email to The Sun.

According to Florida law, a permit is not required for the construction of seawalls in artificially created waterways.

“The law is not protective of mangroves,” Tyrna said. “There’s no difference between mangroves on manmade canals versus on the natural waterways. Mangroves anywhere perform the same ecosystem services, including erosion control, water, cleanup, fish, habitat, etc.”

CONTRACTOR SPEAKS OUT

In a Dec. 18, 2023 email to The Sun from Anna Maria Mayor Dan Murphy, he wrote that a City of Anna Maria stop work order was placed on the property based on a neighbor’s complaints received earlier in December about mangrove removal. On Dec. 19, Murphy emailed The Sun identifying Mason Martin LLC as the contractor involved.

“How do you red tag something the city doesn’t govern? What did that paper really mean?” Contractor Frank Agnelli of Mason Martin said in a Feb. 27 telephone interview with The Sun.

FDEP inspectors conducted a site visit to the home on Dec. 22, 2023 and issued a report Jan. 11, 2024.

“DEP’s investigation has determined that the mangrove alteration/removal activities at this property are in compliance and within the footprint of their seawall exemption,” FDEP spokesperson Brian Humphreys wrote in a Jan. 11 email to The Sun.

However, the report said additional authorization was still required from the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers (USACE). The USACE permit was issued on Feb. 16.

“In a nutshell, the exemption from the FDEP was required to remove the mangroves, the Army Corps of Engineers permit was to fill in the area once the seawall is in place and the city issues the permit to build the seawall,” Agnelli said.

USACE did not respond to an email from The Sun requesting comment.

Agnelli said he had authorization from the proper authorities.

“I didn’t jump the gun to remove the mangroves, FDEP gave me an exemption,” he said. “I didn’t install the seawall without a permit.”

Agnelli said the mangroves at the property were not doing what they were supposed to do, and the area flooded during high tides.

“I’m 100% mangroves in Intracoastal waters,” Agnelli said. “They’re not needed in manmade canals. When this canal was built, it was dredged and the dirt was dumped on top of the mangroves.”

“The biggest impact of these differences is that the mangrove fringe is typically not as wide along manmade shorelines than natural ones,” Dr. Dave Tomasko, executive director of the Sarasota Bay Estuary Program, wrote in a March 7 email to The Sun.

Tomasko noted many benefits of mangroves including underwater hiding places for fish and crabs, attachment points for oysters and sponges that filter algae, mangrove forests that can filter out pollutants and shoreline protection.

“There are numerous benefits that mangroves provide – coastal resiliency to storms through flood and wind protection are chief among them. They are also the backbone of our fishing and tourist economy,” Tyrna wrote.

The home at 111 Gull Drive is under construction with a projected sale price of $6,195,000 according to the Sharp Development website.

“The current owner advertised that the new owner will be able to fish from the dock, but without habitat, there what fish are they going to catch? Are they relying on other homeowners to maintain their habitats so that this homeowner can fish? If everybody relies on someone else we will lose all mangrove habitat,” Tyrna wrote.

“If you live along the bay, why would you not want to have the wildlife value, water quality benefits and storm protection of mangroves?” Tomasko wrote. “If everyone removes their mangroves, or cuts them down to nubs, then you’ll likely have a better view of a more polluted bay – is that what you want?”

Bunny & Pirates Bazaar to close soon

Bunny & Pirates Bazaar to close soon

Written by Leslie Lake on . Posted in Business, Retail.

CORTEZ – The closing of Bunny & Pirates Bazaar is imminent, but not by the choice of owners Elizabeth Shore and Jeffrey O’Connell.

The news of the closing was announced by the two business owners on Facebook on March 16, two days after a notice to vacate was posted on the outer door of the bar and music venue.

“Dearest Friends – It is with heavy yet hopeful hearts we announce that Bunny & Pirates is closing. We decided last year it was time to move on and also to find someone with a passion for music and community to pick up where we left off,” the post read. “Unfortunately, we were not given the opportunity to sell our soulful creation and beloved brand – instead we have been aggressively and cruelly pushed out on short notice without options in the middle of season.”

The building at 12404 Cortez Road W. is owned by Jewfish Landings LLC with developer Shawn Kaleta as manager.

Shore told The Sun by telephone on March 17 that they had been considering selling the business and had spoken to the owner of the property about it but communications suddenly stopped during lease negotiations.

“I feel so naïve because I thought we would be able to work this out,” Shore said.

“We worked so hard to build something special and I’m heartbroken,” Shore told The Sun. “The outpouring of love on social media is a testament to what we’ve built here in the last seven years.”

“We know this comes as much as a surprise to you as it does to us,” the Facebook post continued. “We never imagined not being given the opportunity to find a path forward in Cortez where our magical musical creative space would live on.”

Shore said the venue will continue to be open for a short time and did not have a specific date for its final closing.

“We still have a few shows planned, so there’s a little time,” she said. “We will be having a going away party, but I don’t have a date yet.”

More than 180 comments were posted on Facebook in support of Shore and O’Connell and the uniqueness of the space which consisted of a pub and wine bar, a deli and market and live music in the beer garden out back.

Gord Hunter wrote: “Very sorry to hear this. Our band Northern Exposure has a ton of fond memories playing there. And the open mic helped us build to where we are today. Heartfelt thanks to you both and best wishes.”

“Breaks our hearts as y’all truly represent the Cortezian spirit,” wrote Mick Green.

“You guys were our hidden gem! Bringing unique music to the area that was so different from everywhere else around here! The beer garden was secluded, quaint and personable,” Sharon Chandler wrote.

“We’re losing a lot of old Florida,” Shore said. “The comfortable atmosphere here is what people loved.”

An email request for comment to Bradenton-based Attorney George Najmy, the registered agent for Jewfish Landings LLC, was not responded to by press time.

Anna Maria responds to county consolidation option

Written by Joe Hendricks on . Posted in Anna Maria, Community News, Featured.

ANNA MARIA – The city of Anna Maria has responded to a March 5 request for information from OPPAGA regarding the potential consolidation and annexation of the city into Manatee County.

The cities of Holmes Beach and Bradenton Beach received similar requests from the Office of Program Policy Analysis and Government Accountability that conducts research for the Florida Legislature.

Last year, OPPAGA initiated a consolidation study at the request of Sen. Jim Boyd (R-Bradenton), State Rep. Will Robinson Jr. (R-Bradenton) and the other state legislators who are members of the Manatee County Legislative Delegation.

OPPAGA’s Island consolidation study originally included three possible options: Consolidating the three Island cities into one new city, consolidating and annexing all three cities into the city of Braden­ton or not consolidating the cities but consolidating similar services provided by each Island city.

In November, the three cities submitted separate written re­sponses to OPPAGA that addressed the benefits and challenges of each consolidation scenario.

On March 15, the city of Anna Maria submitted a written response to OPPAGA that addresses the additional option of consolidating Anna Maria into Manatee County and placing it under the control of the county and the Manatee County Commission.

BENEFITS AND CHALLENGES

Regarding the benefits of the county consolidation option, the city response notes the city prop­erty taxes currently levied at a 2.05 millage rate would be eliminated. County consolidation would also eliminate the need for city-funded public works departments, building departments and law enforcement agencies.

Regarding the challenges posed by county consolidation, the Anna Maria response notes there would be an increased financial and administrative placed burden on the county, which last year only provided the city with $15,000 as part of the city’s $11.4 million annual budget.

County consolidation would result in the county assuming own­ership and responsibility for the roads, the stormwater and drainage system and other infrastructure elements currently funded by the city and its taxpayers. The county would assume ownership and maintenance responsibilities associated with the city-owned City Pier and the city-owned property that provides rent-free space for The Center of Anna Maria Island.

The Anna Maria response claims county consolidation would result in the loss of existing environmen­tal safeguards and the loss of the diversity and atmosphere the three distinctly different Island cities currently provide.

“This is what makes Anna Maria Island unique from any other bar­rier island in the state of Florida,” the response notes.

The response also notes the county consolidation option would result in the elimination of each of the three cities’ city charters and comprehensive plans – docu­ments that currently limit building heights to three stories Island-wide.

“Loss of these plans has the potential to create a huge negative impact on the entire Island com­munity,” the response notes.

The city response also notes consolidation would result in job losses for those currently employed by the city.

The response states many Anna Maria property owners, an­nual visitors, tourists and elected officials oppose consolidation and forced consolidation would be likely be met with strong and costly legal opposition.

Jewelry Sale offers great deals for a great cause

Jewelry Sale offers great deals for a great cause

Written by Jason Schaffer on . Posted in Community News, Holmes Beach.

HOLMES BEACH – For the second year in a row, the Anna Maria Island community has shown incredible support for the Island Branch Library. The Friends of the Island Library (FIL), a group of volunteers dedicated to fundraising and support for the library, held their second annual jewelry sale. More than 22 volunteers began taking jewelry donations and sorting them in November 2023 and have been working towards the event, which was held on March 15 and 16. Hundreds of people came out to shop for bargains on high-quality items, which were priced as low as $1.

FIL member, Julie Perry said they were blown away by the number of items donated. Thousands of items were donated and priced from $1 to $50 or more. There were also high-end items from brands like Louis Vuitton, Tiffany and plenty of gold and silver. Many of the high-end items were sold through a silent auction to maximize the fundraising efforts.

“This community is just unbelievable; they’re so generous,” Perry said. “I have no words for the amount of donations we have received, it’s just crazy.”

Perry said this year, due to the incredible amount of donations, they expanded the floor space used for the sale and added more space for non-jewelry items such as handbags, scarfs, wallets, vintage items and other various accessories. Perry also wished to thank Jess Jewelers, who helped appraise some of the more valuable items, making it much easier for the volunteers to correctly price the items and amplify their potential.

FIL says the reason they do this work is their love of the Island Branch Library and the need for the funds. Perry likens it to school teachers, although schools are publicly funded, just about everyone has heard of teachers buying supplies with their own money due to lack of funding. Public libraries are in a very similar situation; while publicly funded, those funds are not enough to do everything the library is capable of providing to the community. FIL uses funds from this annual sale to support projects such as new furniture, supplies, lectures and programming. Funds from this year’s sale will go to replacing the conference room flooring that is in disrepair.

FIL is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization and can be reached at www.friendsoftheislandlibrary.org for anyone interested in learning more about its mission. As of the time this story went to print, the Sun was not able to get a total amount raised from this year’s Jewelry Sale. Last year they raised $7,500, and Perry says they hoped to top $10,000 this year. The Island Branch Library is located at 5701 Marina Drive, Holmes Beach.

Coaches vote league’s best

Written by Monica Simpson on . Posted in Football, Sports.

ANNA MARIA – The winter flag football playoffs started and the youth league award winners were announced last week. With the coaches’ votes in, 10 well-deserved players heard their names announced on The Center’s field.

Playing in last week’s opening game, AMI Coconuts’ Camden Rudacille, the league’s winner of the sportsmanship award, proved he is not only one of the best-spirited players in the league but also a skilled baller.

With one touchdown catch and a two-point conversion on offense, Rudacille also had a strong defensive game against the Moss Builders team, including six flag pulls and an interception.

Teammate Adelaide McGraw and Cheesecake Cutie’s Gunner Maize earned the offensive most valuable player honors for the 8- to 10-year-old league.

Despite the team’s loss against top-ranked Moss Builders, McGraw had a strong game with one reception and a big defensive stop.

In the third game of the night, MVP Maize’s team dominated the Beach House Waterfront Restaurant team, winning 33-0. The Cheesecake Cutie standout once again showed why he is deserving of the title, with 21 points, including a touchdown reception, a rushing score and a pick-six.

On the other side of the football, Beach House’s Aiden Guess, winner of the defensive MVP votes, had three flag pulls against the Cuties offense.

Team Adrian Griffin Interiors advanced to the semifinals with a win against Chick-fil-A. The league’s most improved player, Silas DeWitt, playing for the victors, finished the game with five catches, including one for six points and three big defensive stops.

Sato Real Estate won the second game of the night against Solid Rock Construction by 20 points in the defensive battle.

In the older youth league, Solid Rock Electrical’s Estella Long lit up the gridiron as the MVP against team HSH Design. Long had four catches and scored six points. On the other side of the football, Long stopped the HSH offense with seven flag pulls.

The league’s most improved player, Van Harvell, playing for Solid Rock Air Conditioning, helped his team to their narrow victory against Progressive Cabinetry. In the two-point game, Harvell scored a touchdown and made five big flag pulls in the night’s second match-up.

Team Wings N Things could not advance to the next round of the playoffs, despite having two of the honored players in the league. The Shady Lady Horticultural Services team was just too strong, holding Ryk Kesten, the defensive most valuable player, to one TD and five flag pulls.

Sportsmanship award recipient Charlee Maize caught two passes, pulled eight flags to stop forward progress and sacked the Shady Lady QB.

Closing out last week’s youth flag football play, team Moss Builders solidly won against team Freckled Fin. With the final score 52-8, Mason Moss put up numbers that echoed his season accomplishments which earned him the coaches’ votes for MVP.

Scoring two rushing touchdowns and catching for another six, Moss also had two interceptions, including taking one down the field to score.

Moss clearly showed his dominance both on offense and defense, finishing the game with a flag pull and one-point conversion to end last week’s youth play.

This week’s youth flag football action started on Monday with team Sato Real Estate facing the Cheesecake Cutie team, as well as the 8- to 10-year-old Moss Builders team taking on Adrian Griffin Interiors.

On Tuesday, the older Moss Builders team played Solid Rock Electric while Solid Rock Air Conditioning opposed the Shady Lady Horticultural Services squad in semifinal action.

 

 

SUN SCOREBOARD

 

 

MARCH 4 – YOUTH FLAG FOOTBALL

8- TO 10-YEAR-OLD LEAGUE

QUARTER-FINAL PLAYOFFS

 

 

#1 Moss Builders 35

#8 AMI Coconuts 8

 

 

#3 Sato Real Estate 26

#6 Solid Rock Construction 6

 

 

#2 Cheesecake Cuties 33

#7 Beach House Waterfront Restaurant 0

 

 

#4 Adrian Griffin Interiors 26

#5 Chick-fil-A 13

 

 

MARCH 5 – YOUTH FLAG FOOTBALL

11- TO 14-YEAR-OLD LEAGUE

QUARTER-FINAL PLAYOFFS

 

 

#4 Solid Rock Electrical 39

#5 HSH Design 18

 

 

#3 Solid Rock Air Conditioning 43

#6 Progressive Cabinetry 41

 

 

#2 Shady Lady Horticultural Services 26

#7 Wings N Things 6

 

 

#1 Moss Builders 52

#8 Freckled Fin 8

 

 

MARCH 7 – ADULT CO-ED INDOOR SOCCER, WEEK 5

 

 

Mi-Box (1-3-1) 13

Slim’s Place (0-4-1) 12

 

 

Pool America (3-1-1) 14

Servis 1st Bank (2-3-0) 5

 

 

Bucky Construction (5-0-0) 7

Sato Real Estate (2-2-1) 6

 

 

ADULT CO-ED FLAG FOOTBALL

QUARTER-FINAL PLAYOFFS

 

 

#5 Solid Rock Construction 29

#4 Salty Printing 13

 

 

#3 Sandbar Seafood & Spirits 46

#6 Slim’s Place 39

 

 

#2 Moss Builders 27

#7 Gulf Drive Café 6

 

 

#1 Floridian Mortgage 42

#8 Edible Cookie Dough Café 27

 

 

UPCOMING GAMES

MARCH 17

Floridian Mortgage vs. Solid Rock Construction, 7 p.m.

Sandbar Seafood & Spirits vs. Moss Builders, 8 p.m.

Declutter, depersonalize, clean

Written by Louise Bolger on . Posted in Business, Castles in the Sand.

After perusing what I like to consider my very organized database of columns, I realized it’s been some time since I wrote about getting your house ready for sale. Since we are dead in the middle of the busy selling season, it may be time for a tune-up.

According to the National Association of Realtors, more than 40% of buyers look at listings online as their first step. Because of this, you need to have excellent and clear pictures of your home done by a professional photographer experienced in real estate listings.

Before the pictures are taken you need to declutter, depersonalize and clean your home within an inch of its life. Out of the three of these, cleaning is by far the most important and the most obvious to buyers when they walk in the front door. Even if you are a good housekeeper or your regular housekeeper does in your opinion a good job, you should consider hiring a company that specializes in deep cleaning. Dust building up in corners and on baseboards, fans – especially high ones – and bits of mold are frequently overlooked when you’re living in a home day to day.

Next is decluttering and packing away excess furniture and things you don’t need for everyday living, including any items overstuffing your closets. Not only will this make your home appear cleaner and more spacious, it will also give you a head start on packing for your move.

Not everyone views clutter through the same eyes. Kitchen countertops cluttered with toasters, air fryers, two kitchen types of coffeemakers, countertop ovens, panini presses and every other type of small appliance we’ve all been guilty of buying and infrequently using should be put away. All of this also applies to bathrooms – hairdryers, electric razors, 10 different types of shampoo and crème rinse is something buyers don’t need to know about.

We all have collectibles and souvenirs from vacations and gifts from family members displayed around our home. Well now is the time to decide that the plastic hula girl statue your son insisted on bringing back from Maui has to go and pack away everything else that you aren’t attached to.

The part of the decluttering process that is the most painful is the pictures. Family photos are wonderful reminders of weddings, vacations and those big special moments in our lives, however, don’t forget this is your life, not a potential buyer’s. Family photos also can become a distraction for buyers touring your home. Everyone is a little curious by nature and they love to stop and look at your daughter’s wedding and your children’s first day of school down through the years.

All of this declutter advice also is important on the outside of your home. Whatever you can do to perk up the curb appeal with flowers, trimmed lawns, fresh paint and pressure washing will be helpful.

It should go without saying that all appliances and systems be in working order along with any booklets about them and the year they were installed.

After you have done everything above, the final cleaning job is to clean the windows. Again, a professional window cleaner will do wonders at least until it rains again. Plan on having him or her on retainer while your home is on the market, especially if you live on the beach.

I think I’m done, at least for the big stuff. The object is to set a stage that will make the buyers feel they can make your home their home where they aren’t distracted by personal items and want to stay awhile. Hopefully, it will be a busy season and you all have successful transactions; good luck.

Suncoast Waterkeeper’s vision expands

Reel Time: Suncoast Waterkeeper’s vision expands

Written by Rusty Chinnis on . Posted in Outdoors, Reel Time.

Suncoast Waterkeeper (SCWK) has seen phenomenal growth over the last several years. In that time, they have hired an accomplished wetlands scientist as executive director, hired a marketing and communication specialist, acquired a Waterkeeper boat, and launched their Mangrove Rangers and Eyes on The Suncoast initiatives, which encourage and provide resources for citizens to report illegal mangrove trimming, pollution, fish kills and algae blooms. The organization is being funded by various local charities and foundations.

Dr. Abbey Tyrna, an experienced educator and scientist, joined Suncoast Waterkeeper in 2022. She grew up in Cape Coral and focused her education on learning about wetlands and protecting Florida waters. Tyrna has a doctorate in geography from Pennsylvania State University, where her research focused on measuring the effects of development on wetlands. Before joining SCWK, she worked with the Sarasota County government and the University of Florida to help bring scientific knowledge and expertise to the public as the water resources agent for UF/IFAS Extension and Sustainability. Before receiving her doctorate in 2015, Tyrna earned a master’s in environmental science from LSU in 2008, concentrating on wetland science and management, and a bachelor’s in environmental studies from Florida State University in 2001. SCWK has tackled many significant pollution problems, which have curtailed over 1 trillion gallons of polluted water from entering our bays and driven hundreds of millions of dollars in infrastructure investments. Not resting on her laurels, Tyrna, working with Communications Specialist Samantha Wassmer, is seeking to expand investments in SCWK operations to take on the water quality threats prevalent across our bays and waterways.

To do this, SCWK will launch a new campaign, Love Your Bays Consciously, to recruit, manage and train volunteers in Manatee and Sarasota counties with the goal of proactively and reactively tackling the ever-growing threats to clean water. Through the campaign, SCWK will seek partnerships with bayfront communities, marinas, boat storage facilities, Realtors and local businesses. There are three actions necessary for joining Love Your Bays Consciously – protect aquatic habitats, reduce pollution and help your community.

From this effort, they expect:

• Increased adoption of clean water behaviors – success would entail a noticeable increase in the number of waterfront homes, boaters and marinas actively posting information about clean water behaviors and implementing these best practices. This could be documented through surveys, interviews or direct observation of adopted behaviors;

• Growth in engagement – the success of the Love Your Bay Consciously campaign would be evident through an increase in the number of volunteers actively engaging with residents and visitors to promote clean water behaviors. This could be measured by tracking volunteer participation rates, the number of individuals reached through outreach efforts and feedback collected from those engaged;

• Effective pollution monitoring and reporting – the project’s success would also be reflected in the effectiveness of the special team of ambassadors trained to spot, monitor and report pollution incidents. This could be documented through the number of pollution events reported, the timeliness of reporting and the responsiveness of relevant agencies to address reported incidents; and

• Progress towards environmental goals – ultimately, the success of the project would contribute to progress towards the overarching goal of achieving fishable, swimmable and drinkable waters for all. This could be assessed by monitoring water quality indicators over time, tracking improvements in the health of aquatic ecosystems and gathering feedback from community members on their perceptions of water quality.

To be a part of these exciting programs, consider donating during this year’s 2024 Giving Challenge taking place April 9-10. Matched donations will allow SCWK to expand its outreach efforts and increase the number of community members adopting best practices. This increased funding will also enable the organization to tackle complex challenges with greater resources and effectiveness, ultimately leading to a healthier and more sustainable environment for generations to come. Consider joining Suncoast Waterkeeper at www.suncoastwaterkeeper.org/membership.

Vacation rental legislation awaits DeSantis’ decision

Vacation rental legislation awaits DeSantis’ decision

Written by Joe Hendricks on . Posted in Anna Maria Island, Community News, Featured.

TALLAHASSEE – Gov. Ron DeSantis will decide the fate of proposed vacation rental legislation that seeks to preempt vacation rental regulation to the state.

Supported by the Florida Senate and House of Representatives, the legislation proposed in the matching House and Senate bills and now known collectively as CS/SB 280 would preempt vacation rental regulation, including vacation rental advertising, to the Florida Department of Business and Professional Regulation (DBPR). DeSantis can sign the legislation into state law, allow it to become state law unsigned or veto it.

If DeSantis supports the state preemption, local and county governments, including those on Anna Maria Island, will lose some local vacation rental regulation authority and enforcement powers. If adopted as state law, local governments could still conduct annual health and safety regulation inspections, require an annual vacation rental registry and continue levying “reasonable” registration and inspection fees. The enrolled bill does not define “reasonable.”

Vacation rental legislation awaits DeSantis’ decision
Sen. Nick DiCeglie sponsored SB 280. – FlSenate.gov | Submitted

Sponsored by Sen. Nick DiCeglie (R-Indian Rocks Beach), the Senate, on Feb. 1, voted 27-13 in favor of adopting SB 280 as it was written at that time.

Vacation rental legislation awaits DeSantis’ decision
State Rep. Philip Griffitts Jr. sponsored HB 1537. – MyFloridaHouse.gov | Submitted

On Wednesday, March 6, the House members voted 60-51 in favor of the amended committee substitute version of SB 280 after adopting a lengthy amendment presented by Rep. Philp Griffitts Jr. (R-Panama City Beach), the sponsor of the original House bill, HB 1537. Rep. Will Robinson Jr. (R-Bradenton) voted in favor of the bill which was then sent to the Senate seeking Senate concurrence with the House-amended committee substitute version of CS/SB 280.

Vacation rental legislation awaits DeSantis’ decision
State Rep. Will Robinson Jr. supports the state preemption of vacation rental regulation. – MyFloridaHouse.gov | Submitted

While debating the House-amended bill on March 7, Sen. Bobby Powell (D-West Palm Beach) proposed a Senate amendment to the House amendment that would have grandfathered in any local vacation rental regulations adopted before July 1, 2024. After a spirited debate between supporting and opposing senators, 16 members supported Powell’s amendment and 24 rejected it.

Vacation rental legislation awaits DeSantis’ decision
Sen. Jim Boyd voted in favor of the vacation rental legislation. – FlSenate.gov | Submitted

After further debate, the Senate members voted 23-16 in favor of adopting the House-amended version of CS/SB 280, thus creating identical matching bills to send to DeSantis. Sen. Jim Boyd (R-Bradenton) and Sen. Joe Gruters (R-Sarasota) opposed Powell’s amendment and supported the final adoption of the bill. The 2024 legislative session ended on March 8.

Bill language

On Feb. 23, Griffitts told The Sun his primary goals were to create a statewide vacation rental registry database and to better ensure short-term vacation rentals are properly registered and all applicable taxes and fees are paid. Griffitts said it was unlikely that House members would adopt the Senate bill that then differed significantly from the House bill. However, on March 6, Griffitts presented the House members with a lengthy proposed amendment to the Senate bill, which the House adopted by a slim nine-vote margin.

Vacation rental legislation awaits DeSantis’ decision
The proposed state law would establish vacation rental occupancy limits set forth by the state. – Joe Hendricks | Sun

If enacted as state law, CS/SB 280 would require vacation rental owners, managers and operators to comply with a maximum overnight occupancy that doesn’t exceed two persons per bedroom, plus an additional two persons in one common area; or more than two persons per bedroom if there is at least 50 square feet per person, plus an additional two persons in one common area, whichever’s greater.

Adopted in 2015, Anna Maria’s vacation rental ordinance limits total occupancy to eight persons for any vacation rental home or unit built after that city ordinance took effect. In response to more than 100 Bert Harris claims filed within one year of the city vacation rental ordinance adoption, the city commission granted legitimate Bert Harris claimants additional two-plus-two occupancy exemptions that exceed eight occupants.

Vacation rental legislation awaits DeSantis’ decision
Florida cities could still enact local vacation rental registration programs if the new law is enacted. – Joe Hendricks | Sun

Similar to local vacation rental ordinances, CS/SB 280 would require the vacation rental owner/operator/manager to designate a representative who can respond to complaints or emergencies by phone, or in person, 24 hours a day, seven days a week. That designated individual would also receive any violation notices issued by a local municipality or DBPR.

During the March 7 Senate debate, DiCeglie acknowledged only nine DBPR staff members would be assigned to oversee the state’s vacation rental regulation, but local governments would still be expected to assist with those efforts.

The proposed law would require local governments to issue written notices of violations of local laws, ordinances or regulations that don’t apply solely to vacation rentals but occur at a vacation rental property, including noise violations.

The proposed law would allow local governments to suspend a local rental registration for up to 30 days for one or more violations on five separate days during a 60-day period, up to 60 days for one or more violations on five separate days during a 30-day period and up to 90 days for one or more violations after two prior suspensions.

The proposed law would allow local governments to revoke or refuse renewal of a vacation rental registration if a vacation rental registration has been suspended three times.

The legislation states that as of Jan. 1, 2026, local governments must use the state’s vacation rental information system to notify DBPR of any local suspensions. DiCeglie acknowledged the state’s registration database would not be fully operational until 2026.

Mayor’s concerns

On March 8, Anna Maria Mayor Dan Murphy said he hopes to travel to Tallahassee to meet with DeSantis in person.

“I want to tell him what the implications of that bill would be for the city of Anna Maria,” Murphy said, noting he doesn’t know if DeSantis supports the legislation.

In 2020, DeSantis told a group of reporters he was not sure the state should be micromanaging vacation rentals, as reported by FloridaPolitics.com and others.

In past years, Murphy’s made several trips to Tallahassee to lobby state legislators and he’s disappointed that due to unforeseen circumstances he wasn’t able to get to Tallahassee while the legislature was still in session.

“I don’t think we did an adequate job of getting to the senators and explaining to them the implications. This bill shouldn’t have happened. Of all the vacation rental bills that have come across in recent years, this is probably the worst. The biggest impact is we’re going to have party houses and go back to the days of 25 people in a house. I’m exceptionally disappointed with the state legislature. I find it hard to believe that they couldn’t be more sensitive to the needs of their constituents,” Murphy said.

Murphy said the proposed square footage-related occupancy provision would be virtually impossible to enforce and enforcement of vacation rental advertising, including occupancy limits, would be preempted by the state.

When asked what the city could still do in terms of enforcement, Murphy said, “I’m still sorting that out.”

While awaiting DeSantis’ decision, the city will utilize its HomeRuleFlorida.com website to engage in an email-based opposition campaign directed at DeSantis.

Reel Time: Harbinger of spring

Written by Rusty Chinnis on . Posted in Fishing, Outdoors, Reel Time.

I just heard my first whippoorwill last night, a harbinger of spring. While we might still be a few cold fronts away from spring, now is a great time to prepare for the upcoming season, getting tackle in order and keeping an eye on the sky for diving birds and breaking fish.

Under those birds, you might find Spanish mackerel, king mackerel, cobia, little tunny, jack crevalle and any number of other predators that come together to feast on schools of baitfish that migrate to nearshore waters this time of the year. Every one of these predators will ambush live bait, lures or flies and can be caught on spinning, bait casting or fly tackle. Except for king mackerel and cobia, most can be landed with light (8- to 10-pound test) tackle, adding to the excitement.

Depending on the species you’re targeting, you’ll want to rig accordingly. Since it’s possible to encounter such a diversity of fish in a single outing, multiple outfits are a good idea. After a long winter, tackle can fall into disrepair and need to be replaced. However you fish, take care to avoid the number one way fish are lost – improperly tied knots. To assure you’ll never lose a good fish to inferior knots, moisten and tighten all knots. Properly sharpened hooks and outfits with the appropriate bite tippet and leader are also key. Options include wire, monofilament, long-shanked hooks or a combination of these. It’s possible to catch a kingfish without wire but your odds aren’t good. The same applies with certain exceptions to Spanish mackerel. Mackerel can sometimes shy from wire. That’s the time to switch to a long shank hook and/or a heavy (60-pound) monofilament leader. Even then, it’s possible to get cut off, but you’ll be guaranteed more action if the fish are feeding.

When using wire or heavier mono for a bite tippet, an 8- to-12-inch trace can be tied to monofilament using an Albright Special knot (best) or a swivel. If you use a swivel, use a black one as opposed to silver to prevent fish from mistaking it for forage. American Fishing Wire makes a product called Surflon Micro Supreme that is extremely flexible and kink-resistant. This wire can be knotted to your lure, hook or fly like monofilament. It also provides greater flexibility and less stretch than monofilament. Umpqua makes a product that’s ideal for fly anglers. Their Re-Twistable Haywire Twist wire is reusable and will allow you to change flies in a snap. This is the quickest and most painless system to rig wire for toothy fish. A wire is less likely to deter a bite under low light conditions like early morning, overcast days and late in the day.

Reel Time: Harbinger of spring
False albacore are one of the fastest fish you’ll find harassing bait fish off Anna Maria Island beaches in the spring. – Rusty Chinnis | Sun

One of the most effective ways to find schooling fish in the spring is to look for surface action and diving birds in the inshore Gulf waters. Predators can also be present without revealing themselves around structures, reefs and wrecks, so a few exploratory casts around these areas are advisable. When you find baitfish schools and feeding fish you can approach them by trolling, drifting or with the use of a trolling motor. Whatever method you employ, never let your boat pass through or get too close to the action. With more and more boats and anglers pursuing feeding fish, they are likely to sound and move away. The best bet is to stay outside the action but within casting distance. If trolling, make wide turns so only your lures pass through the action. On species like little tunny that surface, feed and then sound suddenly, only to resurface yards away, learn to watch hovering birds. The birds track the finicky fish as they move from between baitfish schools.

Live bait anglers target schooling fish in several ways. By anchoring up current from a likely area, they may deploy a chum bag and then toss wounded live baits to draw fish into casting range. This can be an extremely effective method. Those who prefer artificial lures find spoons particularly effective as well as jigs like the DOA CAL or the Berkley Gulp. One of the most exciting and effective types of lures are top water models like the MirroLure Top Dog, the Heddon Zara Spook or the Rapala Saltwater Skitter Pop. Not only is the strike visual and often explosive, but the surface action can attract target species.

Fly fishing is also an effective and exciting way to target spring species from cobia to triple tail, Spanish mackerel and even kingfish. The same rigging applies and top water flies like the Crease fly or Garthside Gurgler can produce some memorable strikes. Clouser Deep Minnows are also a great choice for Spanish mackerel and little tunny. This would be a good time of the year to have a 10- or 11-weight rod rigged with a big black fly should a cobia make an appearance.

Whatever your fishing style, take advantage of the great action you’ll find in area waters in the next couple of months. If you’re new to the game, consider hiring a guide. This is a great way to learn the ropes and a great value when shared with a friend. Tight lines!