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State representatives rock Island residents

State representatives rock Island residents

Written by SUN contributor on . Posted in Uncategorized.

MANATEE COUNTY – Members of the local state legislative delegation are making plans to permanently change the face of Anna Maria Island, beginning with a parking garage and potentially ending with the dissolution of the three Island cities.

During a Jan. 12 legislative delegation meeting, Rep. Will Robinson Jr. brought up beach access, specifically beach access and parking in Holmes Beach. Robinson, a Republican, proposed introducing a bill during the upcoming state legislative session to pre-empt Holmes Beach city leaders’ decision to ban parking garages and allow a four-story parking garage to be built on the Manatee County-owned parcel at Manatee Beach. His fellow Republican members of the delegation, Rep. Tommy Gregory, Rep. Mike Beltran, Sen. Jim Boyd and Sen. Joe Gruters, voted unanimously in favor of the proposal and putting the bill forth for consideration at the state level.

Contact Manatee County state representatives

Rep. Will Robinson Jr.

District office: (941) 708-4968

Capitol office: (850) 717-5071

Email: Will.Robinson@myfloridahouse.gov

Rep. Mike Beltran

District office: (813) 653-7097

Capitol office: (850) 717-5070

Email: Mike.Beltran@myfloridahouse.gov

Rep. Tommy Gregory

District office: (941) 893-5434

Capitol office: (850) 717-5072

Email: Tommy.Gregory@myfloridahouse.gov

Sen. Jim Boyd

District office: (941) 742-6445

Capitol office: (850) 487-5020

Email: boyd.jim.web@flsenate.gov

Sen. Joe Gruters

District office:  (941) 378-6309

Capitol office: (850) 487-5022

Email: gruters.joe.web@flsenate.gov

If the proposed bill makes it through all of the levels of state government, including passing votes through committees and the Senate, and gains the approval of Gov. Ron DeSantis, it would allow county commissioners to subvert local governments and issue their own building permits for construction on county-owned property regardless of in which municipality the property is located. It also would allow for the construction of a parking garage in excess of the city of Holmes Beach’s building height restrictions, which limits structures to three stories tall.

Rep. Will Robinson Jr.
Rep. Will Robinson Jr.

“I thought it was incumbent for the Legislature to step in and pre-empt that authority to allow a four-story parking garage if the county commission so votes and funds that parking garage to be built,” Robinson said. “It is fundamental for anyone to be able to visit our public beach and, in my view, parking spaces have been strategically taken away over the last few years under the guise of COVID to not allow folks to access the beach. Folks are getting frustrated – they can’t park, they can’t access the beach, they’re turning around and they’re going back home. And, to me, there’s nothing more important than to allow a person, a taxpayer, who pays for that beach, by the way, to visit that beach.”

Currently, the majority of beach renourishment funding comes from state-funded renourishment programs and the county resort tax, paid by visitors, not local tax dollars.

Dissolving Island cities?

The group also agreed to look into the possibility of engaging The Office of Program Policy Analysis and Government Accountability to do a study to see how feasible it would be to dissolve the three city governments on the Island. If that were to happen, Robinson said it would remove the city governments in Anna Maria, Bradenton Beach and Holmes Beach, replacing them with Manatee County commissioners and administration. He said it could be a good tax break for residents who would no longer have to pay city taxes.

Holmes Beach Mayor Judy Titsworth issued a statement in reply to the legislative delegation discussions.

Holmes Beach mayor Judy Titsworth
Mayor Judy Titsworth

“I am disappointed at the position that Will has taken regarding pre-empting city ordinances to construct a parking garage in a coastal community when the city currently and historically has always exceeded the number of parking spaces required for state-funded beach renourishment and interlocal agreements with the county,” Titsworth said. “As a mayor in his district, I would have appreciated Mr. Robinson to have, in the very least, given notice prior to getting out of his lane in making such a bold move. At this point in time I shouldn’t be surprised about anything that comes from this district. I do not feel Mr. Robinson needed the support of the local delegation to move on this bill but next time he moves on a bill that will affect the lives of our city residents, I hope that he would first reach out to the representatives of the city so he can become better informed. A four-story parking garage at the entrance to our city is not in keeping with the historical character of our quaint city. For this to happen, the potential gutting of our height restrictions would also be in play. These restrictions are in our city charter. This undoubtedly is what led to the next proposal by the representative which is the consideration of the consolidation and/or dissolution of the three Island cities.”

“I believe that is probably the biggest overstep and attack on home rule yet,” she continued. “Holmes Beach has been incorporated for over 70 years. We are a vibrant and prosperous city. Our population continues to grow. Our city is responsible for the majority of the contributions to the tourist development tax in the county and has contributed over $30 million since its inception. We continue to improve roads, sidewalks and storm infrastructure and continue to make public safety a number one goal. We have a very strong commission and numerous appointed boards. All board positions are readily filled by residents who desire to give their time to civic duty. The city of Holmes Beach is proud of not only retaining its residents but providing a tourism experience that is a top vacation destination. Property values continue to soar and our city has investors from all over the world. For a representative to single out Anna Maria Island to study dissolving our city chartered governments is a wake-up for all cities of this state. Because of this, I do not believe this will receive the legislative act that this representative is seeking.”

Robinson said that he feels “very confident” in the proposed legislation and that he feels it will pass during the state legislative session beginning Monday, April 10.

Anna Maria: The Year in Review

Anna Maria: The Year in Review

Written by Joe Hendricks on . Posted in Anna Maria, Community News, Special Sections, Year in Review.

ANNA MARIA – Reimagining Pine Avenue, Mote Marine, food trucks and noise violations were among the top new stories in Anna Maria in 2022.

Projects

Mayor Dan Murphy and the city commission spent much time in 2022 discussing the pending Reimaging Pine Avenue safety improvements planned to include new sidewalks along both sides of the street, new and improved crosswalks and possibly some new streetlights. The safety improvements to be made in 2023 will be partially funded by a $1.28 million state appropriation received in 2022. In September, the commission decided not to pursue a project-related roundabout and delivery truck turnaround at end of Pine Avenue near the trolley stop and the city pier.

Anna Maria: The Year in Review
Mote Marine’s educational outreach center is expected to open in late March. – Mote Marine | Submitted

In April, the commission granted Mote Marine Laboratory a lease extension to complete the long-delayed installation of an educational outreach center on the city pier that was originally expected to open in March 2022. The extension gives Mote Marine until March 2023 to complete the interior buildout and exhibit installation in the city-owned pier building. According to Murphy, that work is now underway.

Adopted in September, the city’s $11.4 million 2022-23 fiscal year budget maintained the existing 2.05 millage rate and included $1.75 million for stormwater and drainage improvements and maintenance and $799,000 for street paving.

Issues & actions

In July, the mayor, commission and city attorney began working on a proposed ordinance intended to establish a designated food truck zone that would limit where food trucks can operate in Anna Maria in response to a state law enacted in 2020 that prevents local governments from prohibiting food truck operations.

Anna Maria: The Year in Review
This map illustrates the proposed, and later rejected, designated food truck zone. – City of Anna Maria | Submitted

In August, Murphy proposed, and the commission supported, locating the food truck zone at the far end of Bayfront Park, near the Hibiscus Street and North Shore Drive intersection. Due to concerns voiced by the public, the commission and the mayor, the proposed food truck ordinance was rejected and discussions have not yet resumed.

In May, at the city’s request, Special Magistrate Gerald Buhr deemed a vacation rental home at 313 Magnolia Ave. to be a public nuisance because three noise violation citations were to guests staying there during a 12-month period. In June, the city filed a lawsuit against the Mangoes on Magnolia LLC ownership group seeking a court ruling that would prohibit the home from being operated as a short-term vacation rental for one year.

Several legal filings have ensued, but a hearing before Manatee County Circuit Court Judge Edward Nicholas has not yet been scheduled.

Anna Maria: The Year in Review
Guests staying at this vacation rental home at 313 Magnolia Ave. received three noise violation citations in a 12-month period. – Joe Hendricks | Sun

In July, Buhr deemed a vacation rental home at 205 South Bay Blvd. to be a public nuisance due to three noise violation citations being issued to guests staying there within in a 12-month period. The property is owned by Shawn Kaleta’s Beach to Bay Investments LLC and managed by his AMI Locals real estate firm. A $313 lien was later placed on the property for the administrative fees and costs incurred by the city. Kaleta’s legal team is appealing the special magistrate’s ruling.

Also in July, the commission authorized the issuance of building permits for the construction of a new beachfront home on a previously vacant lot at 105 Elm Ave. The commission authorization was contingent on property owner Fedora Campbell providing additional drainage elements at her expense and FDEP reviewing the proposed plans, both of which occurred.

Anna Maria: The Year in Review
The vacant beachfront lot in the foreground is now being developed. The existing home in the background was recently sold. – Joe Hendricks | Sun

At the time, Wendy and Robert Jordan owned the adjacent home at 107 Elm and opposed the permitting request because the construction of Campbell’s new home seaward of their home would obstruct their view of the beach. The Jordans’ opposition efforts included the Preserve AMI publicity campaign launched in 2021. The Jordans purchased their home in 2021 for $4 million and in December sold it to the Ohio-based DePalma Corporation for $4.15 million, according to the warranty deed.

Politics

In 2022, the city of Anna Maria and lobbyist Chip Case led the statewide efforts to defeat the Florida legislature’s annual attempt to preempt vacation rental regulation to the state and take away the city’s ability to regulate vacation rentals at the local level. Those efforts were aided by citizen participation and the city-owned Home Rule Florida website. In August, the mayor and commission decided to switch lobbyists and entered into a contract with the Tallahassee-based Corcoran Partners lobbying firm for the 2023 legislative session that begins March 7.

Running unopposed in the November election, Murphy and incumbent city commissioners Deanie Sebring and Mark Short earned additional two-year terms in office. In December, the commission selected Short to serve as the new commission chair for the coming year. On Dec. 15, longtime commissioner Carol Carter vacated the remaining 10 months of her two-year commission term because she and her husband, Bob, relocated to Sarasota County. The commission will appoint her successor on Jan. 26.

Passings

On Aug. 1, longtime Anna Maria resident and former Anna Maria Elementary School Principal Jack Dietrich passed away at the age of 92.

Anna Maria: The Year in Review
Jack Dietrich passed away in August. – Joe Hendricks | Sun

On Aug. 14. Anna Maria resident, businessman and Pine Avenue Restoration co-founder Mike Coleman passed away at the age of 74.

Anna Maria: The Year in Review
Mike Coleman passed away in August. – Joe Hendricks | Sun

Special events

In May, the city hosted its annual Memorial Day Patriotic Symphony Salute at City Pier Park. In October, the city’s seasonal farmers market resumed weekly operations. Around that time, the city-sponsored Movies in the Park film screenings resumed.

In November, the city hosted its annual “Old Soldiers & Sailors” Veterans Day parade post-parade recognition ceremony. In December, the city hosted its annual Holiday Bright Lights decorating contest and Santa Stops event at City Pier Park, followed that evening by the merchant-sponsored Holiday of Treasures open house along Pine Avenue.

Hurricanes

In late September, Hurricane Ian left many Anna Maria residents and businesses without electrical and water service for varied lengths of time, but the physical damage was mostly limited to downed trees, downed power lines, downed fences and downed street signs. In November, Hurricane Nicole had no significant impact in Anna Maria.

Anna Maria: The Year in Review
Hurricane Ian toppled street signs in Anna Maria. – Joe Hendricks | Sun

Arrivals & Departures

In January, Building Official David Gilson departed after accepting a similar position with the city of New Port Richey. In May, he reversed course and returned as the city’s building official.

High school graduate Destin Gollamudi served as the city’s summer intern before heading to Gainesville in August to start his freshman year of college at the University of Florida.

In July, Public Works Manager Dean Jones departed after accepting a position with the city of Bradenton’s Public Works Department. Ryan Wieland was promoted from within to serve as Jones’ successor.

Anna Maria: The Year in Review
Ryan Wieland became the new Public Works Department Manager in 2022. – City of Anna Maria | Submitted

In August, City Planner Chad Minor departed after accepting the city planner’s job in Holmes Beach. After relocating from Texas, Ashley Austin succeeded Minor in Anna Maria.

Anna Maria: The Year in Review
Ashley Austin became the new city planner in 2022. – Joe Hendricks | Sun

In November, Deputy Patrick Manning left the Manatee County Sheriff’s Office’s Anna Maria Unit and was reassigned to the Manatee County Judicial Center in downtown Bradenton en route to his anticipated retirement.

In December, Administrative Assistant Kristin Olsen left the city’s employment for personal reasons.

Gulfview wins Hayward Cup

Gulfview wins Hayward Cup

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

ANNA MARIA – After nearly 45 minutes of Island soccer action, playoff underdogs Gulfview Windows and Doors came out on top. With nine saves in the game against the likes of Danny Anderson, JD Webb, Pedro Gonzalez and Will Kretzmann, Tuna McCracken was arguably the game’s MVP.

McCracken’s cat-like reflexes and perfect placement kicks helped take the Gulfview team led by Keith Mahoney to victory against the talented and physically powerful Sato Real Estate squad.

Playing down the first 10 minutes of the game, Gulfview had a player advantage on Sato.

Raul Loera led the Gulfview team in scoring last Thursday night with a hat trick. Loera’s three goals were complemented by a single by Thomas Magnotic, giving the team the 4-3 win in the final game of the season.

Mahoney was credited with an assist in the big win. His team made it to through to the end with strong play by Chris Culhane, David Kesten, Zach Long, Brandon Rolland and Asli Gunsel.

On the other side of The Center’s pitch team, captain Josh Sato stood on the sidelines only able to watch his team lose by one goal.

Sato stepped down from the team prior to the start of playoffs knowing he would be away for his wed- ding. Kretzmann, Sato’s replacement, matched the talented skills of the veteran player, scoring two goals in the championship game.

Gonzalez had a solo goal, while teammate Webb made an assist.

Gulfview wins Hayward Cup
Two “Island boys,” Chris Culhane and Tuna McCracken, and Gulfview teammates, celebrate the post-championship game with Culhane helping McCracken cool off with a celebratory ice shower. – Monica Simpson | Sun

Protecting the net for Sato was Mark Rudacille, credited with two big saves in the game, helping his team to stay in the game, along with the strong defense of the Sato squad.

Finishing the season with dynamic play and sheer athleticism, Danny Anderson showed no quit in the game, diving and flying until the final whistles.

Anderson’s teammates Brian Leib- fried, Jacek Czajkowski, Ben Sato, Lindsey Styka and Justine Wells all contributed with strong team play to finish the regular season ranked second going into the playoffs.

The naming of the Paul “Ace” Hay- ward Cup champions set the stage for the adult kickball league’s championship game to be played Monday night. With Captain Ron’s Crew pitted against Paddy Wagon, it is anyone’s game to win.

Sun Scoreboard

 

Dec. 5

 

Adult kickball
Semifinal playoff games

 

Captain Ron’s Crew 9

General Bums 6

 

Paddy Wagon 22

The Salty Dolphins 12

 

 

 

Dec. 8

Adult soccer

Championship game

 

 

#5 Gulfview Windows and Doors 4

#2 Sato Real Estate 3

Bethlehem Walk has very happy ending

Bethlehem Walk has very happy ending

Written by Jason Schaffer on . Posted in Churches, Community News.

ANNA MARIA – There are plenty of inns on Anna Maria Island, but the “No Vacancy” signs were out for Mary and Joseph as they walked with their animals and several angels searching for shelter in Anna Maria on Sunday.

The annual Bethlehem Walk, held by Roser Church, portrayed the struggle faced by Jesus’ parents as they desperately searched for and were continuously denied shelter as they walked the streets of Bethlehem.

Bethlehem Walk has very happy ending
Mary and Joseph (Sophie Bernet and Noah Goodkind) are denied a room at the first inn they stop at during Roser Church’s Bethlehem Walk. – Jason Schaffer | Sun

A large crowd followed them as they went from inn to inn until they were eventually offered lodging in a local stable.

“This is an annual event that we’ve been doing for many years to keep Christ at the center of Christmas,” Roser Pastor Dirk Rodgers said. “We just wander the streets of Anna Maria and reenact the story of Mary and Joseph looking for a place to stay. We wind up back here at the church, which is the manger in our story, then announce the birth of Jesus and then celebrate Christmas here with a little fellowship at the end.”

Mary and Joseph (Sophie Bernet and Noah Goodkind) begin their journey to find a room at an inn with their animals as Roser Church in Anna Maria began their annual Bethlehem Walk on Sunday. – Jason Schaffer | Sun

Unlike a Christmas play or pageant, this event is open to anyone who wants to walk the route. The church even pro- vides costumes for those that want to dress the part but don’t have a costume. Many enjoyed walking the route with Mary and Joseph (Sophie Bernet and Noah Goodkind), their cow and donkey and plenty of angels, who also carried animals including chickens and goats.

The animals for the Bethlehem Walk were provided by Addie’s Pony Parties, and were central to the event. There were plenty of children who were happy to carry an animal, and everyone in attendance had to get at least one petting session with the beautiful and docile creatures that seemed to be very comfortable with their roles in the story.

Rodgers said that Roser is unique in the fact that they are non-denominational, and welcome everyone for not only this event, but every service held at the church. He said because the church is aware that many tourists come to the Island and want to go to a church, they are welcoming of anyone from any denomination whether local or from thousands of miles away.

Bethlehem Walk has very happy ending
Participants in Roser Church’s annual Bethlehem Walk stop to sing a traditional Christmas carol for diners at The Waterfront Restaurant in Anna Maria. – Jason Schaffer | Sun

“I just want everyone to know that in these troubled times, Christmas is a message of hope that God is with us through these things,” Rodgers said. “He sent His son to encourage us and help us find hope in these times.”

 

Lester Family Fun Day lives up to its name

Lester Family Fun Day lives up to its name

Written by Jason Schaffer on . Posted in Center of Anna Maria Island, Community News.

ANNA MARIA – Sunshine, warm weather, tasty food and plenty of attractions made the 20th Annual Lester Family Fun Day at The Center of Anna Maria Island the perfect event for families to get outside and enjoy themselves.

The event, sponsored by Holmes Beach residents Joey and Chuck Lester, took place Saturday, Dec. 3.

“This is so great, being out here in the sun with the kids, and it doesn’t cost a fortune,” said Anna Rotz, of Bradenton, who brought her daughter, Katie. “It’s December and it’s 80 degrees and the sun is shining; only in Florida!”

DJ Freeze did an excellent job of keeping the music upbeat with both kids and their parents dancing outside, as well as hosting a dance battle between Santa and the Grinch (spoiler alert, Santa won). There was a huge slide, bounce ball and other attractions that allowed the kids to burn off some energy while parents chatted and mingled.

The highlight of the event again this year was the helicopter golf ball drop. People could purchase a numbered golf ball which was loaded onto a helicopter. When the chopper hovered over a makeshift golf hole in the field behind the center, the balls were dropped. The ball that came closest to the hole won $1,000. The children loved the helicopter, and one lucky parent almost certainly loved their big win.

Inside, there were plenty of activities and crafts, a poinsettia sale and treats for all to enjoy.

Castles in the Sand

Zoom towns

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

They call them “Zoom towns” because so many of the new residents are working remotely and have given up their city and suburban lifestyles for a more relaxed environment in smaller communities. It’s no secret that this massive lifestyle change evolved because of COVID-19, but even now, when the danger of serious infection is substantially reduced, Zoom towns are still popular.

A recent National Association of Realtors survey reported that buyers who purchased homes in the year that ended in June moved a median of 50 miles from their previous residences. This is the highest distance on record, going back to 2005 when the median was a consistent 15 miles. This may not seem like a lot of mileage difference, but 15 miles from Boston, for instance, is still part of the city, but when you go 50 miles, you’re in real country. In New York City and other large metropolitan areas, however, you would need to go a little further than 50 miles to really be getting away from it all.

In the same survey, smaller communities were more popular, with buyers purchasing 48% of the homes. Again, this is a record and is up from 32% a year earlier. By comparison, traditional suburban home purchases dropped to 39% from 51% the previous year and only 10% of home purchases were in urban areas, down from 13% the year before. Naturally, the increased cost of homes and now the increased cost of financing has certainly influenced buyers.

Home buyers who are getting close to retirement are another influence on the popularity of small communities. Many who have the ability to work remotely chose to relocate now rather than after their retirement date. This gave them an edge before mortgage rates and prices went up further and set them up for easing into retirement.

Confirming further the demand for homes in smaller communities, The Wall Street Journal/Realtor.com Emerging Housing Markets Indexes came out at the end of October. It reports that the demand for homes in low-cost cities with strong local economies is, in their opinion, “robust.” This annual survey incorporates economic and lifestyle data, including real estate taxes, home appreciation, unemployment, wages and commute time in their 300 biggest metro area rankings.

This survey places the North Port, Sarasota and Bradenton region at number four in the top 10. Unfortunately, as we all know, North Port has taken a big hit from Hurricane Ian since this survey was completed, so in next year’s survey it will be interesting to see where that area is placed.

The other Emerging Housing Markets were in this order: Johnson City, Tennessee; Visalia-Porterville, California; Elkhart-Goshen, Indiana; Fort Wayne, Indiana; Lafayette-West Lafayette, Indiana; Columbia, South Carolina; Columbia, Missouri; Raleigh, North Carolina; and Yuma, Arizona.

Danielle Hale, chief economist at Realtor.com, said, “These more affordable markets continue to offer some opportunity. It doesn’t mean that they’re not seeing a slowdown in their housing markets, but they’re better positioned generally.” In other words, they had faster home sales and lower unemployment rates than the market as a whole, which is attracting buyers in an otherwise difficult housing market. Further, according to an economist at Nationwide Insurance, the trend toward less expensive housing markets looks like it will continue even if home prices start trending down.

I guess all of Florida needs to be considered a Zoom town based on the number of people who have relocated to our state in the past two years. We’re still a state with a lot of smaller, cozy communities, access to waterfront amenities and a friendly business environment. I believe our new diverse residents will only enhance those attributes. Time to pack your laptops and zoom your way to the Sunshine State!

Castles in the Sand

The death of old Florida

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

Florida’s changed a lot in the over 20 years I’ve lived on the Gulf coast, and it’s changed even more as a result of COVID-19. But the biggest change to southwest Florida and the entire coastline south of Tampa may come as a result of Hurricane Ian.

Now that the flood waters are receding and everyone is assessing the damage from the storm, we’re starting to get a feel for the damage to real estate values. Feedback from brokers is that the investors and buyers are now out in force looking for properties to buy in as-is condition. One broker from Englewood predicts that home prices will increase for at least another 12 to 18 months because of the additional demand.

Buyers from out of state have not changed their minds and are motivated to buy before prices increase further because of the anticipated additional shortage of properties to buy in the aftermath of the storm. In addition, they have not been discouraged by the increased costs associated with fortifying homes against wind and flooding.

The fallout from the insurance companies is still unknown, but anyone purchasing a coastal home now is calculating that additional cost into their affordability factor.

Of course, Anna Maria Island and other barrier islands on the coast that did not have major damage will be looked at by buyers and seasonal renters. This could prove to be an even busier rental season for Anna Maria Island with higher price tags for rentals and purchases alike.

Assuming all of the above, where does that leave the average buyer who wants to live on the coast? Unfortunately, many will be forever priced out of coastal living because of a combination of building codes and the increased costs of flood and homeowners’ insurance.

The most recent update to Florida building codes from 2020 includes provisions to seal roof decks, as well as longer standing requirements to install impact-resistant windows or shutters and an update to stronger connections between the roof, walls and foundation.

As previously stated, homeowner’s insurance companies are requiring condos and single-family homes to install new roofs before they will provide an insurance policy. This is happening even if there are currently no leaks or damage to existing roofs, if they are over a certain age.

According to a recent report by CoreLogic, there are nearly 33 million homes at risk of hurricane-force wind damage along the Gulf and Atlantic coasts in Florida, so the amount of property updating required is substantial.

When Hurricane Michael hit the Panhandle town of Mexico Beach, it didn’t take long for the area to recover with high-end homes, gated communities and beachfront condos supplanting the original old Florida cottage nature of the area. This is certainly going to happen in parts of southwest Florida where many homeowners do not have flood and/or homeowner’s insurance and are planning not to return. Just to prove that “deep pocket” money isn’t afraid of storms, The Ritz Carlton Residences on Estero Bay, located just south of Fort Myers Beach, is breaking ground next year with units starting at $2.8 million.

I still have my crystal ball handy from Halloween and it’s telling me Florida’s real estate values are strong and may actually get stronger because of Hurricane Ian. The downside is will “old Florida” be gone forever? The crystal ball is saying, “Why are you asking that question? You know the answer.” Unfortunately, I do.

Island Players take on Neil Simon

Island Players take on Neil Simon

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

ANNA MARIA – The Island Players 2022- 23 season kicked off Sept. 15 with a solid production of James Yaffe’s “Cliffhanger,” and they look to keep the momentum going with the next play.

Neil Simon’s “I Ought to be in Pictures,” directed by Kelly Wynn Woodland and starring Mark Shoemaker, Tahlia Chinault and Diana Shoemaker debuts Friday, Nov. 4 at the Island Playhouse in Anna Maria.

“Unlike some Neil Simon plays, this is much more character-centered, and kind of quietly and sweetly emotional,” Wynn Woodland said. “It features a lot of what you’d expect from a Neil Simon play with comedy and characters.”

The play is the story of Libby Tucker, who travels across the country from Brooklyn to Los Angeles in the hope of starting a film career with the help of her estranged father, whom she hasn’t seen in more than a decade, but who is in the movie business. However, her father, Herb Tucker, has a case of writer’s block and is dealing with plenty of problems of his own, including with his relationship with his girlfriend, Steffy.

This is the second of five plays the Island Players will present in the 2022-23 season and will run from Nov. 4-14 at the Island Players theater.

Tickets are $25 each and can be purchased by calling 941-778-5755 or visiting the box office located at the theater at 10009 Gulf Drive, which opens 10 days prior to the start of each production and is open Monday through Saturday from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m.

Performances are Tuesday through Saturday at 7:30 p.m. with a Sunday matinee at 2 p.m. For more information, visit www.islandplayers.org.

Castles in the Sand

Mortgage rates scary

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

“Boo!” all you ghosts and goblins. If you’re afraid of what’s lurking behind those Halloween masks, I’ll give you something to really be scared of – the 30-year fixed rate mortgage rate has cracked 7%. I bet I have your attention now.

According to Realtor.com, as higher mortgage rates have thinned out the competition for homes, properties are now sitting on the market longer. That has led to a 26.9% national increase in inventory in September. However, that doesn’t mean buyers will have an easier time finding a property.

The housing shortage, which caused home prices to spike, isn’t even close to being filled. The nation still has 42.6% fewer homes for sale than in 2019 and it doesn’t look like the situation will get much better anytime soon. Even builders are spooked during the month of Halloween and are slowing down construction.

However, not much of this applies to Florida where real estate prices are holding their own. The state emerged as a housing hot spot during the pandemic, attracting retirees, remote workers, as well as those looking to leave more expensive parts of the country. Home prices in Miami increased the most among the nation’s 50 largest metropolitan areas in September, jumping 28.3% year over year. Home prices also were up 18.2% in Orlando and 17.2% in Tampa.

Time to see what Manatee County’s sales statistics are for the month of September as recorded by the Realtor Association of Sarasota and Manatee:

Single-family closed sales are down 37.5% from last September. The median sale price is $517,193, up 20.3% from last year, and the average sale price is $624,142, up 7.6% from last year. The median time to sale is 62 days. Last year it was 48 days. The month’s supply of inventory is 2.7 months.

Condos closed 35.9% fewer properties when compared to last year. The median sale price was $337,000, up 18.2%, and the average sale price was $401,183, up 24.7%. The median time to sale was 57 days compared to 41 last year, and the month’s supply of inventory is 1.9 months.

The trend of fewer sales is continuing, and prices are leveling off somewhat every month. However, prices continue to be strong compared to last year and inventory has not significantly increased. We’re still in a sellers’ market, although it appears that everyone is having a wait-and-see attitude regarding the economy.

Gone are the days of bidding wars and multiple offers on a property as soon as it comes on the market. Realtor.com reported that nationally 19.5% of sellers cut the price of their home in September. As previously stated, some buyers can no longer qualify for loans and others have thrown up their hands and given up or are switching to adjustable-rate mortgages.

As of Oct. 20, the average 30-year fixed rate mortgage was 7.25% per Forbes, the average 15-year fixed rate mortgage was 6.47% and the average 5/1 ARM was 5.42%. A 5/1ARM means the rate is fixed for 5 years and then can adjust each year after that. With a lower rate offered for an ARM, buyers have a better chance of qualifying for a loan but have to worry about the rate readjusting in 5 years to one they may not be able to afford. There are no good choices for the average buyer.

Hoping you have a fun Halloween in spite of soaring interest rates. Relax, some things you can’t control, so drink the witches’ brew and steal the kids’ candy. I guarantee you’ll feel better.

Erosion expected to resolve naturally

Erosion expected to resolve naturally

Written by Leslie Lake on . Posted in Beach, Outdoors.

ANNA MARIA ISLAND – While the Island missed a direct hit from Hurricane Ian, the effects of the Sept. 28 storm included beach erosion, primarily on the north end of the Island.

The good news for Manatee County, however, is that the sands are expected to return over the next several months without county intervention.

“For Anna Maria Island, the majority of beach sands were blown or drawn into a shallow sand bar directly offshore of the beaches along North Shore Drive and are expected to return over the next six to nine months with seasonal onshore winds and wave currents,” according to Charlie Hunsicker, Manatee County National Resources Department director, in an email to The Sun.

Hunsicker said the majority of Gulf-facing beaches along the Island saw little or no effects of erosion at all.

“Manatee County participates in the state’s critically eroded beach program requiring an annual survey of beach conditions to track how the beach is approaching the time when renourishment is needed to continue to provide storm protection,” Hunsicker said. “We have already commissioned this year’s annual survey and will await its findings to determine how far along in years we are to the next erosion event, keeping in mind that a strong hurricane at any time has the potential to quickly remove vast stretches of beach, sacrificing it and the protection it provides to save residential and commercial structures and evacuation roadways upland from the beach.”

In 1992-93, the first beach nourishment of Anna Maria Island was commenced to protect upland infrastructure. Since then, approximately 6.9 million cubic yards of sand from offshore borrow areas have been placed by U.S. Army Corps of Engineers contractors.

Only private property owners who have given permission through a state-approved process that sets a seaward Erosion Control Line (ECL) are eligible for publicly-funded renourishment efforts, Hunsicker said.

“In Manatee County, property owners from approximately 79th Street North in Holmes Beach all the way south to Longboat Pass have given this permission, along with a one-half mile length of beach bordered roughly between Magnolia and Elm streets in the city of Anna Maria. Residents outside these limits in the city of Anna Maria have not given their consent to the establishment of an Erosion Control Line, especially along North Shore Drive, and are not eligible for county, state or federal renourishment programs,” he said.

Bayfest delivers the party by the pier

Bayfest delivers the party by the pier

Written by Jason Schaffer on . Posted in Entertainment, Events, Festivals.

ANNA MARIA – In its second year since returning after a hiatus due to COVID-19, the 21st Bayfest celebration last Saturday offered something for the entire family.

A substantial portion of Pine Avenue in Anna Maria was closed for most of the day to make room for vendors offering a little bit of everything. This family-friendly event has been a perennial favorite for both locals and visitors for two decades, and 2022 delivered on the promise of fun.

“I love the Dr. Dave band, and was so happy to hear they’d be headlining again this year,” said Marty Haskins, a Bradenton resident who says he never misses Bayfest. “The food is fantastic and I love the fact they relax the rules and let you enjoy a few beers while you rock out to your favorite band with the backdrop of some of the most beautiful water on the planet.”

Bayfest delivers the party by the pier
The Dr. Dave Band headlines Bayfest in Anna Maria. – Jason Schaffer | Sun

Haskins wasn’t alone in taking advantage of the ability to shop, eat and drink on Pine Avenue during the festivities. It was all smiles and dancing in the street as the Trevor Bystrom Band, Lisa and the Island Hoppers, the Karen and Jimmy Band and the Dr. Dave Band brought unique sounds that had something for everyone. There was also plenty of distinctive Island art, jewelry and specialty items that would be difficult to find in the same place outside of an event like Bayfest.

Many people said that this year’s crowd seemed to be a bit less than in previous years, despite the Island being busier than normal for October due to Hurricane Ian rerouting many vacationers who had planned to stay farther south. There are also many people affected by Ian who have come to the Island while cleanup efforts continue at their homes. Many speculated that the road closure on Marina Drive in Holmes Beach may have had something to do with lower attendance. Vendors reported slower sales than last year, and there was ample room to roam without being enveloped by a crowd.

“We’ve been raising money for our Campaign for Ukraine and selling Cuban sandwiches from our booth here, but we haven’t had to call the restaurant to send more food since brunch,” said Bob Slicker, owner of Slicker’s Eatery in Cortez. “There’s definitely not the crowd we expected, but everybody’s having fun, and that’s what’s important.”

Party by the pier; Bayfest delivers
A rainbow arcs over the stage at Bayfest in Anna Maria. – Jason Schaffer | Sun

Despite a smaller crowd than in years past, festivalgoers were having fun and spending time with friends and family on a beautiful day. There were a couple of rain sprinkles, but they were kind enough to cast a rainbow directly over the stage and the City Pier late in the afternoon, a photo op that many took advantage of.

Party by the pier; Bayfest delivers
From left, Jake Hodges with daughter, Hattie, son, Everett and wife, Kristen, enjoy a visit with friends and their first Bayfest. – Jason Schaffer | Sun

“We’re down here visiting from Oklahoma City. We have great friends that live here and we just love spending time with them,” said Jake Hodges, who was visiting with his wife and two young children. “We love how relaxed and laid back this Island is, and this event is really nice. It’s our first Bayfest.”

Hodges’ daughter, Hattie, said she loves the beach, a sentiment echoed by her brother, Everett. Police reported no incidents, just a day of fun at Bayfest, hosted by the Anna Maria Island Chamber of Commerce.

Anna Maria seeks county funds for inlet study

Anna Maria seeks county funds for inlet study

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

ANNA MARIA – City officials are seeking $105,000 in county commission-controlled surplus beach concession funds for a study of the Lake La Vista inlet.

Mayor Dan Murphy presented the funding request to the Anna Maria City Commission on Thursday, Oct. 13.

Murphy said the study would assist the city in its efforts to find a permanent solution that would alleviate the need for the city to pay $250,000-$300,000 every few years to dredge the jetty area that extends into Tampa Bay and connects with the channel that provides access to and from the inland Lake La Vista.

Anna Maria seeks county funds for inlet study
The Lake La Vista area includes the channel that passes under the humpback bridge on North Bay Boulevard. – Joe Hendricks | Sun

The funding request will be made in the form of the city commission-approved resolution to now be forwarded to the Manatee County Tourist Development Council (TDC) advisory board and then the Manatee County Commission will ultimately approve or deny the funding request.

Murphy said the city would contribute $105,000 in matching funds for the Lake La Vista inlet study which he estimated would cost approximately $210,000.

Murphy said the study would also require input from the Army Corps of Engineers and the West Coast Inland Navigation District.

Additional state and county funds would be sought later for the actual construction or implementation of the long-term solution or solutions identified by the study.

Murphy noted the city submitted a jetty/inlet study-related appropriation request to the state earlier this year. That $207,450 request for state funds was supported by the Florida Legislature but later vetoed by Gov. Ron DeSantis.

Murphy noted the surplus beach concession revenues are generated by the concessionaires that lease space from the county at the county-owned Manatee Public Beach in Holmes Beach and the county-owned Coquina Beach in Bradenton Beach.

Murphy also noted a project funded by surplus beach concession funds is supposed to benefit the entire Island and a city’s request for the use of those county commission-controlled funds requires the support of all three Anna Maria Island cities.

The cities of Bradenton Beach and Holmes Beach have or will adopt similar city resolutions for their cities’ individual $105,000 funding requests. Murphy said the county commission can approve or reject any or all of the funding requests sought by the three Island cities.

Island city leaders set sights on beach concession funds

Written by SUN contributor on . Posted in Community News, Holmes Beach.

HOLMES BEACH – City leaders on Anna Maria Island are planning to present plans to Manatee County commissioners in hopes of using excess beach concession funds for projects in each city.

To access the funds, elected officials in each city have to present projects that benefit tourism and visitors on the Island, the officials in each city must agree to the projects and the projects and funding have to be approved by county commissioners.

Holmes Beach Mayor Judy Titsworth said that the fund has grown to more than $300,000. Now, each city is putting forth its own list of projects.

In Anna Maria, city leaders are seeking a 50/50 match in the amount of $115,250
to get an engineered permanent solution to issues causing the Lake LaVista Channel to become unnavigable. The channel provides access to kayak and paddleboard launches, a landing dock for visitors coming to the Anna Maria Island Historical Society Museum, a launching point for commercial nature tours and boater access. City leaders estimate that the development of a design along with permitting will cost $230,500, excluding construction.

In Bradenton Beach, officials are asking for $105,000 for a 50% match to improve public beach and bay access points, including additional pavers, signage, bike racks, benches, trash containers and pedestrian and bicycle path improvements.

Holmes Beach city leaders voted unanimously on Oct. 11 to request $105,000 in funding for low-level LED lighting for trolley shelters along with rebuilding five trolley shelters and replacing two. The total cost of the project is estimated to be $210,000. The concession funds would provide a 50/50 funding match.

Titsworth warned commissioners that “time is of the essence” in requesting funding as Manatee County Administrator Scott Hopes has set his sights on the excess concession funds as a potential source of monies for a proposed water taxi service from downtown Bradenton to Anna Maria Island.

Slim’s Place undefeated in adult soccer action

Slim’s Place undefeated in adult soccer action

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

ANNA MARIA – On the beautiful fall night at The Center, players, friends, family and referees all came together for a night of soccer, grateful to have been spared by Hurricane Ian. Even though the action on the pitch was a bit overshadowed by non-stop conversations of gratefulness on the sidelines and in the stands, the eight adult soccer teams played hard-fought battles.

In the first game last Thursday night, Joey Hutchinson had the hot foot for Slim’s Place. Scoring six of the nine goals in the game for his team, Hutchinson also made an assist in the team’s 9-6 win against Pool America.

Kris Yavalar, for Pool America, lit up the scoreboard scoring the first goal of the game, finishing with four goals and an assist. Yavalar and Hutchinson worked for position on the field throughout the match-up, ending with Hutchinson doubling his scoring record for the season.

At the end of week three, Hutchinson leads the scoring in the league with a total of 12 points and three assists.

Slim’s Place scored three additional goals with a single by Eliza Faillace and two by Eric Pullen. Early in the game, Pullen sailed his strikes over the crossbar. Making the necessary adjustments, Pullen moved into third for scoring. With five goals, Pullen is tied with four other players in the scoring ranks. Amy Ivin, Kevin Roman, Keith Mahoney and Yavalar each closed out the third week of play with five goals.

For Pool America, Gerardo Urbiola Bolano put up two points in the loss. These are the first two points of the season for Bolano.

In the goal, Jack Goodier was credited with two saves in the game. Goodier was relieved by Pool America teammate and captain Chris Klotz, who had an injury in the game. 

Slim’s Place’s P.J. Smargisso made critical saves for his team. Making six stops in the game helped his team to victory.

Ties and close scoring action was the name of the game for the rest of the night. Wash Family Construction tied Servis 1st Bank in game two. The third game of the night ended in a tie between Moss Builders and Sato Real Estate.

Wash Family Construction’s Kevin Roman had a hat trick in the game, while Yuri Pereira made three saves for Servis.

Pereira’s teammates put five goals on the scoreboard with solo goals by Luca Vecchio and Juan Carlo Perez.

Servis 1st Bank’s Ugur “Lucky” Durmaz matched Roman’s hat trick with three goals of his own.

In the keeper position, Mark Long made eight critical saves in the game for Wash Family, keeping them in the game.

Tyler Brewer’s two goals helped to get the Wash Family team to the tie.

Saving 11 shots, Ryan Moss kept the shooting power of Sato Real Estate to six goals. Moss’ team, Moss Builders, made their six shots count, with six points scored in the tie-ending game.

For Moss Builders scoring, Damir Glavan had four goals, with an additional two by Daniel Hampton and Jessica Williams.

Sato Real Estate’s points came at the foot of Danny Anderson with a hat trick and two by Lindsey Styka. Teammate Pedro Gonzalez added a goal in the 6-6 game.

Ending the night, Ross Built Construction matched up against Gulfview Windows & Doors. Gulfview eked out the win with two goals, scored by captain Keith Mahoney and Raul Loera.

In the 2-1 game, Gulfview’s goalie Tuna McCracken supported his team defensively with seven big stops in the game. Steve Oelfke made five critical saves. 

Avoiding the goose egg, off an assist by Raul Castano, Eduardo Schlueter scored Ross Builts’ only goal in the game.

After three games, Slim’s Place is on top with a 3-0-0 record. With more than half the season left to play, can the Slim’s crew stay on top?

Sun Scoreboard

OCT. 4

Youth Soccer

Week 3

U10

LaPensee Plumbing (2-1-0) 2

Solid Rock Construction (0-2-1) 1

 

 

Island Real Estate (3-0-0) 6

Cloud Pest Control (0-3-0) 0

U14

HSH (2-0-1) 4

Progressive Cabinetry (0-2-0) 1

 

 

Mac Parkman (0-0-1) Bye Week

OCT. 6

Youth Soccer

Week 3

U10

Sato Real Estate (1-0-2) 1

AMI Coconuts (1-0-2) 1

Adult Soccer

Week 3

 

Slim’s Place (3-0-0) 9

Pool America (1-2-0) 6

 

 

Wash Family Construction (2-0-1) 5

Servis First Bank (0-2-1) 5

 

 

Sato Real Estate (0-2-1) 6

Moss Builders (1-1-1) 6

 

 

Gulfview Windows and Doors (2-1-0) 2

Ross Built Construction (1-2-0) 1

Center Notes

Written by SUN contributor on . Posted in Entertainment, Events.

Increase your babysitting skills

For young people who are thinking about starting their own babysitting business or those who want to increase their skill level, The Center of Anna Maria Island is hosting a babysitting class on Saturday, Oct. 22. The class will be held from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. and participants will learn skills to help them babysit safely and effectively, including becoming certified in CPR and first aid. Skills covered in the course include getting started with a business, caregiving, working with parents and children and key safety measures. The class is open to young people from 11-17. The cost to attend is $85 for Center members or $100 for non-members. The deadline to register is Friday, Oct. 14. Participants are asked to bring their own lunch. For more information, or to register, call 941-778-1908.

Learn to play canasta

Come out to The Center of Anna Maria Island and learn to play canasta. The nonprofit is hosting a six-week class from Oct. 18-Nov. 22 to teach people of all ages how to play American canasta. Classes take place every Tuesday from 12:30-2:30 p.m. Players will be split into teams of four and will learn strategies and rules of play to help them beat their opponents. The cost for the class series is $90 for Center members and $100 for non-members. All classes take place at The Center, 407 Magnolia Ave. in Anna Maria, and the deadline to register is Friday, Oct. 14. For more information, or to reserve your spot, call 941-778-1908.

Center hosts capoeira classes for beginners

For anyone who’s ever wanted to learn the intricacies of the Brazilian dance fighting martial art, a six-week course on capoeira for beginners is kicking off on Monday, Oct. 17. Classes will meet every week on Mondays and Wednesdays from 6-7:30 p.m. through Nov. 21. Participants will learn the basic movements of capoeira and how to apply them while also exploring some of the art form’s history, and will engage in a capoeira roda. The class is open to all ages; it’s recommended that a parent or guardian accompany students under 10 years old for their first class. The cost is $50 for Center members or $60 for non-members and the deadline to register is Oct. 14. For more information, or to register, call 941-778-1908.

Get CPR certified at The Center

Landes Emergency Training Services is offering an AED/CPR certification class this month at The Center of Anna Maria Island. The class is on Wednesday, Oct. 19 from 6:30-8 p.m. and participants will earn a two-year certification upon completion. The training session is open to all community members with a cost of $90 for Center members and $100 for non-members. Registration is required by Friday, Oct. 14. For more information, or to register, call 941-778-1908.

Learn improv skills at The Center

The Center of Anna Maria Island joins organizations from all around the country in offering GameOn programming, a course designed to help children develop their improv, theatrical, listening and public speaking skills through games. Classes take place every Thursday from Oct. 20-Dec. 15 with kids ages 6-8 meeting at 4 p.m. and children ages 9-11 meeting at 5 p.m. The cost for the series is $200 for Center members or $225 for non-members. All classes are at The Center of Anna Maria Island, 407 Magnolia Ave. in Anna Maria. The deadline to register is Friday, Oct. 14. For more information, or to register your child, call 941-778-1908.

Attract pollinators with seed bombs

Teens in fourth through ninth grades are invited to come to The Center of Anna Maria Island and learn how to make seed bombs on Thursday, Oct. 13 from 6-7 p.m. During the class, created in partnership with the Manatee County Public Library System, students will learn how to create beautiful, functional seed bombs to brighten up their outdoor space and also create a food source for pollinating insects and birds. The cost to attend is $20 for Center members or $25 for non-members. All supplies will be provided. The class takes place at The Center, 407 Magnolia Ave. in Anna Maria. To register, call 941-778-1908.

Tumble Tots classes roll into The Center

Learn to flip, kick and tumble at The Center of Anna Maria this fall with tumbling classes for youth. Classes take place every Thursday from Oct. 20-Nov. 17. Tumble Tots classes for kids ages 2-4 will be held from 3-3:45 p.m., followed by youth tumbling for kids entering kindergarten through fifth grade from 3:35-4:30 p.m. and advanced youth tumbling for students entering kindergarten through fifth grade from 4:30-5 p.m. Students will be placed in the advanced tumbling class based on skill level and at the discretion of the instructor. The cost to participate is $100 for Center members or $125 for non-members. Registration is required by Friday, Oct. 14. To register, call 941-778-1908. All classes will be held at The Center, 407 Magnolia Ave. in Anna Maria.