Tag: Anna Maria

Tour of Homes returns

Written by SUN contributor on March 8, 2019. Posted in Entertainment, Events, Family fun.

ANNA MARIA ISLAND – One of the biggest events of the year is just around the corner and tickets are on sale now. The Center of Anna Maria Island’s annual Tour of Homes takes place from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. on Saturday, March 16. This year’s tour features four of Anna Maria Island’s most elegant homes along with a stop at The Center of Anna Maria Island where attendees can shop, grab a bite to eat, tour the facility and buy raffle tickets for a chance to win this year’s tour quilt. The tour is dedicated to the memory of Island resident Ann Horne.

The Willow House – 222 Magnolia Ave., Anna Maria

Simplicity, softness and grace welcome you to this new home, built last year by Moss Builders. This home features four bedrooms, four baths and two half-baths. The upper level of the home has an inviting living area complete with bedrooms, a TV room and a small kitchen. Don’t miss the beautiful tree trunk table!

The interior of the home is complete with hand-scraped, wire-brushed oak floors throughout. Most of the home is painted in Sherwin Williams “Extra White.” The kitchen and upstairs bar area were done by Progressive Cabinetry and the accent color cabinetry is called “Aegean Teal.” This color can also be found on the walls of the guest bedroom at the end of the hall. The powder bath and accent wall in the guest bedroom are painted with “Twilight Blue.” The dining room table and living room coffee table were custom-made by local fabricators. The upstairs bathroom color is “Sea Salt.” The master bedroom is painted in “Tradewinds Blue.” The exterior of the home is painted “Harbor Haze” with “Vanilla Bean” accents and dark glazed natural cypress tongue and groove.

222 Willow Avenue was designed by Beacon Home Designs with the selections and interior design done by Emily Moss. Lancaster Designs did the landscaping and Sanger Pools did the pool. It is currently for sale through Gulf Bay Realty of Anna Maria, Inc.

Photos by Jack Elka

Horne Home – 8403 Marina Dr., Holmes Beach

Purchased 31 years ago by John Horne during his tenure at the iconic Fast Eddie’s, this traditional 1960s block home sitting on Bimini Bay was completely renovated in 2017, maintaining the small island charm in the of design.

John’s parents, Ann and Lynn were riding their bikes around the island and came across the house “for sale by owner (Gus Kent.)” They told John that they had found the perfect house for him to buy on the island and in usual Momma Ann style she ended her “pitch” with “…because I’m going to live there when I get old.”

Fast forward 29 years and her wish became a reality upon the sale of their two-story home on the north end of the island. John and Amanda renovated the one-story home with an eye to their parents being able to live there for many years.

We had “imagineered” many times over various projects with the talented Mike Carter and his construction team and this project was no different. We focused on a floor plan that had no doorway thresholds and in the master bedroom, again, no shower threshold to reduce the chance of tripping.

One of our favorite features is the Brazilian pecky cypress in the walls in the living and dining areas – it added warmth and a nautical cottage feel to the house paired with the oyster shell sconces and candelabras. Enhancing the nautical feel is the mother of pearl backsplash in the kitchen. Be sure to check out the kitchen cabinet handles.

The back of the house overlooks beautiful Bimini Bay and has pavers and flowerbeds. The garden was designed and implemented by Jeff Gilchrist with much input from Lynn, Sr. who requested multiple citrus trees and lychee to compliment the famous old mango tree. This mango tree is a favorite of the old islanders. Snooks Adams was known to stop by to take samples and ensure there was a tasty crop!

This home has so many special memories of celebrations over the years: oyster stew on Christmas Eve, Momma Ann and Papa Lynn’s 60th wedding anniversary celebration, birthdays … family and friends. We hope you feel the aura of love and happiness created by Ann and Lynn.

Photos by Jack Elka

Kerschner Home – 637 Key Royale Drive, Holmes Beach

The owners, Greg and Kathy Kerchner, local architect Gene Aubry, and Shoreline Builders collaborated on the design of this coastal contemporary. The custom Sapele doors match both the garage doors and two garden gates. Wiederhold Creations custom made some of the woodwork. The eight aluminum balconies cannot be missed as you walk up to the home.

The two-story foyer draws your attention to the incredible perimeter overflow and infinity-edged pool and spa. Overhead in the foyer hangs a 32-pendant chandelier. The globes were hand blown in Israel. The wood artwork on the wall is Fever Tree, indigenous to Africa but grown at Selby Gardens in Sarasota. Floating black walnut stairs lead to the first living area. The 14-foot dining room table was created from a single slab of sinker cypress. This massive log was underwater for over 100 years and was created by Mother Nature and embellished by local craftsmen. The second chandelier features raindrop shaped globes as a paean to the natural beauty on display outside.

The kitchen tabletop was custom built for the owners for their previous home. Greg refinished it to coordinate with the quarter-sawn black walnut flooring throughout the home. The cypress mantle over the fireplace was also handcrafted by Greg. Be sure to take notice of the of the Camphor wood countertop in the powder room as Greg, again, designed and built it himself.

The owner’s wine collection rests in a climate-controlled room of cypress racking. A wet bar incorporates a local nautical chart as a backsplash. An expansive guest suite makes a perfect in-law suite with an oversized tub, sitting space and twin balconies. The second living level includes an exercise room and office. The master suite affords a view of the sunrise from a private balcony. The master bath features marble flooring and counters. A unique tub circulates air through its jets. Bedrooms three and four are also on this level. Both feature en-suite and private balconies.

An inviting bar awaits outside with full outdoor kitchen. A water feature graces one side yard and provides a soothing visual interest.

Photos by Jack Elka

Fangmeyer Home – 92 52nd Street, Holmes Beach

When you enter this beachfront home get ready to be swept away to the French countryside. Belle Fangmeyer designs all the charming interior. Her love of flowers and birds are ever present. As you come through the front gate be sure to see the iron sailfish artwork. This sculpture was originally a fountain in front of a bank in Tampa. You will also have an opportunity to peek over the gate at Belle’s herb garden and potting shed. Gardening is her favorite pastime. Hand-painted palm trees grace the border near the foyer ceiling, and waves greet you as you enter.

Upstairs, in the living area, is a breathtaking view of the Gulf of Mexico. A large “birdhouse” in the kitchen makes you smile as you see the wine bottles tucked into the holes of the birdhouse. A handyman friend from North Carolina made the large arch over the kitchen stove as well as the mantle over the fireplace in the living room.

Dan and Belle’s favorite room is the small room off the living room they call the porch. The table in the center of the room is from Paris. In fact, many pieces of furniture throughout the home are antiques from Europe. You will notice a dry sink in their lounge room which came from their horse stable in North Carolina. Their Tennessee Walker horses are stabled there along with Boer goats they call their big pets. Belle and Dan have a 60-acre farm in North Carolina which also doubles as a wedding venue.

As you slowly stroll and take in the serenity of this home, notice the burst of flowers as you enter each of the three bedrooms. Sunset can be viewed from two of the up or downstairs porches. The backyard and pool offer a relaxing respite. Another impressive iron sculpture of a humpback whale and calf sits close to the 149 feet of beachfront property. An outdoor kitchen is near the pool alongside the “Margarita” room. This is another guest room with an en-suite bath. Murphy beds are enclosed along one wall. The Margarita “feel” flows into the bath with shower doors that are etched with a margarita glass and shaker of salt. Olé!

Dan and Belle purchased this 3300 sq. ft. home in 2017. The builder was Whitehead Construction in 2014.

Photos by Jack Elka

Center Bazaar

The Center Bazaar is open to all and is located at The Center at 407 Magnolia Ave in Anna Maria Island. The Bazaar will be open 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. It is sponsored by Duncan Real Estate. The Bazaar will feature local vendors selling art, pottery, jewelry, and more. There will be food vendors for those looking for a quick bite during the tour. The Tropical Treasures Boutique will also be located at The Center with The Bazaar. The boutique includes crafts, art, and homemade jellies all donated to The Center. The quilt created by the Eyeland Needlers will be on display at The Center and tickets can be purchased for the raffle. The quilt is titled “Mermaid’s Garden” and is sponsored by Green Real Estate.

Tickets for the Tour of Homes are $25 each and can be purchased at The Center, 407 Magnolia Ave., Anna Maria, or at each stop of the tour on the day of the event. For more information, call the Center at 941-778-1908 or email info@centerami.org.

Gardner’s Progressive Cabinetry dominates

Written by Monica Simpson on March 5, 2019. Posted in Archives.

Going into the fifth week of adult co-ed flag football action at The Center of Anna Maria Island, two of the three games were not played due to forfeits but the friendly rivalry between Ray Gardner and Tim Shaughnessy did not disappoint.

Missing his late pick-ups, Don Purvis and Lexi Sato, Gardner was forced to play with just four men on the field against the nearly full Lancaster Design squad. Gardner’s Progressive Cabinetry team showed it did not need the fifth player or the quarterback strength of Purvis to take the win last Thursday night.

As castmates in the annual Murder Mystery fundraiser at the Center, members of Team Progressive Cabinetry, Ray Gardner and Don Purvis, and Team Lancaster Design, Brianna Roberts, Mike Shaughnessy and Caleb Roberts, work together and have team chemistry, but on the gridiron, the individuals play hard for their respective teams.

To start the action after four minutes of play, quarterback T. Shaughnessy, brother of Brianna Roberts, found his favorite target, brother-in-law Caleb Roberts, for the first touchdown of the game. League veteran Karri Stephens caught the extra point throw in the end zone to take the early lead at 7-0.

Gardner and company quickly met the challenge with a touchdown and extra point of their own. On the second snap of the series, Ben Sato caught a short pitch but gained significant yardage for a first down.

League newcomer Connor Haughey scored the first touchdown for Progressive Cabinetry despite immense defensive pressure by B. Roberts on quarterback Gardner. Sato made the reception for the point after tying the game at 7-7.

Haughey showed his defensive ability by getting a reaching hand between the football and Stephens on the first down play. Haughey disrupted Lancaster Design’s offensive push by nabbing the C. Roberts pass intended for Shaughnessy.

The flag pull by C. Roberts prevented the pick six, but Progressive Cabinetry quickly found the end zone and put six more points on the scoreboard with a Sato touchdown catch.

Looking to tie the ball game, if not pull ahead, Lancaster Design struggled to put together plays. After a reception by Lane Burnett, two incomplete passes put the football back into the capable hands of Gardner.

With 26 seconds left on the first half clock, Haughey and Sato put the Progressive team in scoring position. Haughey took the ball after the snap and hit Zachary Holder for the touchdown and point after, advancing the score to 7-20.

Lancaster Design had another chance to score, but Sato’s speed led to a quarterback sack on the first down. The second down and last play of the half showcased the speed and agility of both the ball carrier Stephens and defender Gardner.

The second half started with Progressive Cabinetry on offense, but the Lancaster defense and non-stop effort by B. Roberts quickly gave the football back to Shaughnessy’s team.

Keeping the win within reach, C. Roberts and Shaughnessy both hit Stephens to gain big yardage. Haughey’s flag pulls temporarily kept the Lancaster Design squad out of the end zone. Stephens’ moves led him to the score, closing the Progressive lead to seven points.

Flag pulls by Jake Parsons stopped Haughey and Gardner on the first two plays of Progressive’s possession. After taking the ball to the 10-yard line, a scrambling Gardner finally found Holder at the back of the end zone for the team’s fourth touchdown of the game with less than six minutes left to play.

Unable to score, with incomplete passes by the team patriarch Mike Shaughnessy and C. Roberts, Progressive Cabinetry took over on offense for another Haughey touchdown with 47 seconds left on the clock.

Roberts closed out the game with a nice reception, ending with the final score at 13-33.

Related coverage

Blue Lagoon cleaned up on the field

Football futures constructed by Moss Builders

Island Charms takes the win

Letters to the Editor: Roser crucial to book sale

Written by SUN contributor on March 5, 2019. Posted in Letter to the Editor, Opinion.

Once again, the Friends of the Island Library are very grateful to Roser Community Church for making a space for us to have our popular book sale. A smaller space, but we had fewer books. The sale was another success, bringing in more than $3,500 to be used for future children’s and adult programs at the Library as well as our Lecture and Travel series. All books were donated.

So many thanks to the many volunteers who worked hard hauling, sorting, pricing etc. to get the book sale in shape. I have much admiration for your constant support. To the LaPensees for storing the books all year and everyone who attended the sale, we are grateful.

Please, friends, note that we have no space in the library at this time to store books and would be obliged if you would hold the books you wish to donate until July of this year.

Denise Johnson

Holmes Beach

More Letters to the Editor

Letters to the Editor: Thanks for Sun support

Letters to the Editor: No late calls, please

Expect comic mayhem at next Island Players show

Written by Tom Vaught on March 5, 2019. Posted in Entertainment, Theater.

A new play is coming to the stage at The Island Players Theater this weekend. From March 7 to 24, The Island Players will perform “A Flea In Her Ear,” by Georges Feydeau. The comical French farce is directed by Kelly Wynn Woodland and is co-produced by the Off Stage Ladies.

When Raymonde, played by Nancy Denton, believes her husband, Victor, played by Daniel Coppinger, has been unfaithful, she hatches a scheme to catch him at a nearby hotel notorious for extramarital play. As she tries to catch her cheating husband red-handed, utter pandemonium ensues with mischief, mistaken identities and slamming doors taking the lead in this new adaptation by David Ives.

The talented cast includes Nancy Denton as Raymonde Chandebise, Judy Glynn as Lucienne Homenides de Histangua, Daniel Coppinger as Victor Chandebise/Poche, Mark Woodland as Don Carlos Homenides de Histnagua, Mike Lusk as Dr. Finache, Brannon Westfall as Camille, Colin Brady as Romain Tournel, Tiffany Baker as Antoinette, Richard LeVene as Baptiste, Rick Kopp as Ferraillon, Ginger King as Olympia and Jennifer Caldwell as Eugenie.

If acting on the Island stage sounds like it might be your thing, two male actors are still needed for the production. There is the medium-sized, very fun role of Etienne still open for a male aged 40-70 and the smaller but hilarious role of Rugby open for a male aged 20-65. If you are interested, email the director at cringe4141@earthlink.net.

Performances, held at the theater located at 10009 Gulf Drive, Anna Maria, are from Tuesday through Saturday at 8 p.m. and Sunday at 2 p.m. Tickets are $20 each. The stage is dark on Mondays.

The box office is open from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. Monday through Saturday. On performance nights, the box office opens at 7 p.m. and for Sunday matinees, it opens at 1 p.m. Visa, MasterCard and Discover are accepted.

For reservations or information, call the box office at 941 778-5755 or visit the Island Players website.

Related coverage

Island Players: Baggage

Weather sets mood for Island Players’ ‘Guest’

Celebrating Island history

Written by Tom Vaught on March 5, 2019. Posted in Anna Maria Island, Community News, History.

Members of the Anna Maria Island Historical Society welcomed the public to celebrate the history of the Island’s early settlers at the annual Heritage Day Festival and Settler’s Market. The festivities took place last Saturday, March 2, at the Anna Maria Island Historical Society Museum and Park on Pine Avenue in Anna Maria.

There was fun for all ages including a children’s scavenger hunt and other games, a sale of antiques and collectibles, an authors’ corner where readers could purchase books signed by the authors, and a pirate invasion with the Anna Maria Island Privateers aboard their land-bound ship, the Skullywag. Island craftsmen were also on hand for the event, including a beekeeper selling fresh honey, a wool spinner, candle maker, canners with jams and jellies, a quilt maker, barbecue, refreshments and more. The annual event is held to give residents and visitors a small taste of what it was like for the Island’s earliest residents who began settling the area in the late 1800s.

Ron Prouty and Peggy Donoho sold and autographed their book, “Miguel’s Bay” about early settlers to the area that were related to Donoho. - Tom Vaught | Sun

Bradenton beekeeper Kevin Lausman brought a demonstration hive and sold local honey at Heritage Day. - Tom Vaught | Sun

Joan Pettigrew shows the quilt she designed that is being raffled as part of The Center’s upcoming Tour of Homes. - Tom Vaught | Sun

Island resident Lori Gyson brought her grandson, Spencer, with her to the Heritage Day festivities. The well-known Old City Jail is in the background. - Tom Vaught | Sun

Related coverage

Heritage Day celebrates Anna Maria’s history

Historical society readies for busy season

Insider’s Island – The insider’s guide to outdoors AMI

Reel Time: Pothole savvy, Part 2

Written by Rusty Chinnis on February 26, 2019. Posted in Fishing, Outdoors, Reel Time.

Last week I wrote about the anatomy of potholes and how to approach them. Depending on conditions, you will want to tailor your strategy when fishing them. When the water is clear enough for you to spot fish, they will often be traveling between holes. When possible, make a cast into the fish’s path with at least a 5-foot lead and let the fly settle to the bottom. As the fish approaches, bump the fly to imitate a baitfish or crustacean that has been surprised. Fish lying right over sand in a pothole are the hardest to make a presentation to. The cast must land far enough away not to be noticed and stripped so the fly doesn’t approach them.

Match flies to whatever forage is most prevalent. Generally speaking, use smaller flies and fish them slower in the winter. In the warmer months, switch to a larger pattern and work it a bit faster. Patterns with lead eyes, like Clousers, are very effective in the winter. In the warmer months try flies that mimic baitfish like the Lefty’s Deceiver, a bend back pattern. Whether you’re fishing from a boat or wading, make an effort to use the elements to your advantage. Keep the sun at your back for the best visibility.

On an incoming tide, fish will naturally stage at the edges of a flat and move into the potholes and slues as the tide rises. If the fish are hard to approach, try stationing yourself in an area where you have a good view of a pothole or series of holes. Stay off to the side in the grass where you’re less visible and keep a low profile.

By staying a long cast away, you can easily see the fish when they enter a hole or pass across the white sandy bottom. By just waiting them out, you can target reds, trout and snook as they wander the flat. It’s important to be able to land the fly line and the fly softly and not rip the line off the water for the next cast. Stand still, be observant and make your casts low and slow. It takes patience but can be very productive.

In most cases, there are few obstructions on a flat allowing you to use a light 6- to 8-weight outfit. Lines and leaders can be varied according to the conditions. On a shallow, clear flat, use a floating line and a long leader. A 12-foot leader with a 30-pound fluorocarbon bite tippet is standard. If the fish are particularly wary, drop down to a 20 or even 15-pound bite tippet. When fishing holes with deeper water, 6 to 8 feet, switching to a sink-tip fly line with a 10-foot leader might be more productive.

Potholes on a flat concentrate fish for fly anglers. They provide cover for predators and a way for them to enter and exit a flat. Learn to fish them according to their unique topography, the time of the year, tides and local conditions, and they’ll consistently provide action to the savvy angler.

More Reel Time:

Reel Time: Fly fishing strategy – pothole savvy

Reel Time: New dimensions in trolling motors

Reel Time: Clams restored to Manatee County waters

Murder, mayhem and nostalgia on stage at The Center

Written by SUN contributor on February 26, 2019. Posted in Entertainment, Events, Theater.

ANNA MARIA – The Center of Anna Maria Island’s annual Murder Mystery is a favorite night out for many Islanders, but this year’s festivities were particularly interesting with a nostalgic 1980s theme and a real-life onstage proposal ending the night.

The play, written by Brianna Roberts and Beth and Mike Shaughnessy, began with a trip down memory lane for the cast, all 1978 graduates and staff from Ben Dover High School gathering for a 10-year reunion. Things quickly took a turn to the sinister when Principal John Hughes, played by Will Schenerlein, dropped dead after having a drink from the bar.

As various characters tried to find out who the murderer was, more antics ensued including the musical stylings of Marty McGoldblum, played by Clay Spangler, to 80s classic songs and a dance-off between Coach Dick Diggler, played by Don Purvis, and high school football great Ray Rodney King Jr., played by Ray Gardner. A prom court was voted in and a prom king and queen were awarded $50 gift cards to Slim’s Place in the costume contest.

Other cast members included Jillian Cacchiotti and Leah Purvis as mean girl cheerleaders Jillian Ryder and Leah Lockler, Chris Scott as nerd Judge Brinehold, Mike Shaughnessy as stoner bus driver Mike, Monica Simpson as exchange student Short Swan Chow, Brianna Roberts as undercover CIA agent Regina Jacobs and Caleb Roberts as George Michael look-alike Caleb Michael.

Center Murder Mystery engagement — As the cast of the Center’s Murder Mystery take their final bows Feb. 23, cast member Ray Gardner proposes marriage to long-time girlfriend and castmate Jillian Cacchiotti onstage. – Kristin Swain | Sun

Sponsors for the event included The Ugly Grouper, Slim’s Place, Progressive Cabinetry, Abrahamson and Uiterwyk Personal Injury Law Firm, Island Photography, Beach House Real Estate, Eason Builders Group, Moss Builders, ALSCO Linen and Uniform Rental Services, Johnson Homes, Key 2 Life Training, Steam Designs, the Freckled Fin and the Traveling Gourmet.

In keeping with the high school theme, food for the event was served on Styrofoam cafeteria trays in a lunch line setting, including a serving of mystery meat. Guests also were treated to a dessert table featuring cupcakes and mini mud pies, and appetizers including shrimp cocktail, spinach artichoke dip and salad.

Friday’s festivities topped out with around 170 attendees while Saturday night’s final performance drew a crowd of about 350.

Ending the final night of the Murder Mystery was a surprise onstage marriage proposal. As the cast took its final bows, Gardner proposed to longtime girlfriend Cacchiotti, ending the evening on a happy and celebratory note.

Heritage Day celebrates Anna Maria’s history

Written by Sun staff on February 26, 2019. Posted in Entertainment, Events, Family fun, Festivals.

ANNA MARIA – As part of Manatee County’s Heritage Days celebration, the Anna Maria Island Historical Society will hold its annual Heritage Day Festival on Saturday, March 2 at the Anna Maria Island Historical Museum and Park at 402 Pine Ave. from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m.

Howie Banfield and the AMI String Band will provide music, and BBQ and refreshments will be available.

Local crafters will demonstrate arts and crafts as practiced by early Island settlers including beekeeping, wool spinning, candle making, woodworking, soap making, jam and jelly making, basket weaving and quilt and rug making. A Settler’s Market will offer local produce, herbs and Early Settler’s Bread baked by local volunteers, and there will be a collectibles tent with items for sale.

Local authors will sign books at the author’s table, the Anna Maria Island Privateers will stage an invasion and children can participate in a scavenger hunt and games with prizes. Raffle tickets will be available for a host of prizes, and there will be a silent auction. Anna Maria Island Turtle Watch and Shorebird Monitoring and Wildlife Education and Rehabilitation Inc. will have educational booths, and Belle Haven Cottage, the museum, and the surrounding native plant garden will be open for tours.

For more information, call 941-778-0492.

Related coverage

History comes to life at Heritage Day

Local vacation rental regulations under fire again

Written by Joe Hendricks on February 26, 2019. Posted in Anna Maria, Community News.

ANNA MARIA – City officials in Anna Maria are already following proposed state legislation that pertains to vacation rentals.

Vacation rentals are among the many matters that will be debated by the Florida Legislature during the 2019 legislative session that convenes on Tuesday, March 5.

“The vacation rental snake is alive and well. There are three bills pending in the Senate at this point. Two of them are from Rep. David Simmons from the Orlando area,” Mayor Dan Murphy said during the Feb. 14 city commission meeting.

Simmons’ Senate Bill 815 proposes the Florida Department of Business and Professional Regulations (DBPR) Division of Hotels and Restaurants impose a fee schedule on hosting platforms that advertise or list short-term vacation rentals.

Simmons’ Senate Bill 812 proposes persons engaged in certain public lodging-related transactions be required to display a valid certificate of registration number in their rental listings or advertisements. It also calls for DBPR’s vacation rental inspection responsibilities to be revised and the vacation rental classification to be revised.

Murphy said Simmons’ legislation seeks a compromise between local governments and vacation rental advertising platforms like Airbnb, VRBO and others.

Murphy said this legislation would prevent cities like Anna Maria from conducting annual vacation rental inspections as part of its local vacation rental registration process. Murphy said Simmons’ legislation calls for the state to do any needed inspections, with local municipalities relegated to tracking vacation rentals based on voluntary participation from rental owners and managers.

“I see very little value in this compromise. It’s so watered down it would be meaningless to our city to even participate,” Murphy said.

Commissioner Carol Carter said a state-based inspection program would result in little to no inspection of Anna Maria’s vacation rentals.

Commissioner Doug Copeland said the city needs to be cautious of the Simmons legislation.

“Counties like Manatee County who have failed to collect any tax from Airbnb will be supporting it because it’ll require them to register with the state. They’ve not taken the initiative like we have,” Copeland said. “They figure this is the way to at least get some of that money. They could be a thorn in the side, so beware.”

Murphy also referenced the private property rights bill, SB 824, filed by Sen. Manny Diaz Jr. (R-Miami-Dade). He likened it to previously unsuccessful legislation proposed by former Sen. Greg Steube (R-Sarasota), who is now a member of the United States House of Representatives.

Steube’s past legislative efforts attempted to usurp city and county governments’ home rule rights when it comes to regulating vacation rentals by preempting that authority to DBPR.

Diaz’ legislation also seeks to preempt the regulation of vacation rentals to the state, requiring each person applying for a vacation rental license to provide DBPR with specified information.

“It’s the same old song that Steube introduced. It puts us out of business vacation rental-wise,” Murphy said of the potential impacts.

Murphy said the Diaz bill was written by Airbnb lobbyists and did not yet have a companion bill in the Florida House of Representatives, which is required for any state legislation to be adopted.

Murphy said it’s possible that Rep. Mike La Rosa (R-St. Cloud) could file the companion bill, as he did last year for Steube’s failed legislation.

Sen. Bill Galvano (R-Bradenton) is now serving as the new Senate president, and Murphy hopes that local connection provides some opposition to these latest attacks on the city’s home rule rights.

“He has at least passively, if not somewhat overtly, said that he’s opposed to it,” Murphy said.

Murphy said Sen. Joe Gruters (R-Sarasota), who is also the new head of Florida’s Republican Party, might be a potential ally.

“He has told me that he felt our pain about the vacation rentals. Unfortunately, we did not get his vote last year,” Murphy said. “We’ll get our defenses up. I think it’ll be the same old game that we fought before.”

Lobbyist Chip Case is again assisting the city with these legislative matters. Last year, he and City Attorney Becky Vose helped derail Steube’s vacation rental legislation by getting a sexual predator amendment introduced and adopted.

“Chip was instrumental in killing it. He was the rainmaker last year. Hopefully, he can cut through and be the rainmaker again this year,” Murphy said.

Murphy said it’s also important for residents to become engaged and share their views with state legislators.

This can be accomplished with personal visits, phone calls, letters or email. A complete list of Florida Senators can be found online along with a complete list of Florida Representatives. All proposed legislation also can be tracked at these websites.

Blue Lagoon cleaned up on the field

Written by Monica Simpson on February 19, 2019. Posted in Football, Sports.

ANNA MARIA – In the final games of the regular season for the high school boys that play on the gridiron at The Center, Team Cloud Pest Control could not put a win in its season statistics against Team Blue Lagoon.

The first four series of play resulted in no score by either team. For Blue Lagoon, incomplete passes by Chris Snyder and strong defensive play by Roman Langley, including a sack, was on par with dropped passes by Cloud Pest Control and big yardage gains by Julius Petereit.

Snyder found his rhythm hitting Jeremiah Sculco for a first down reception. Despite a sack by Ben Barreda, Team Blue Lagoon was the first to put points on the board with a beautiful one-handed catch by league newbie Jernard Dunbar. The failed extra point conversion gave the team coached by Randy Langley a 6-0 lead.

Three and out was the next possession for Cloud Pest Control, giving the football back to Snyder. Dunbar effectively moved the ball down the field, weaving in and out of defenders, putting his team on the Cloud 10 yard line.

With a huge defensive stop by Cloud, Blue Lagoon had to find the end zone on third down. Snyder scored the second touchdown of the game and Rutger Langley caught the ball for the point after, advancing the score to 13-0.

Cloud Pest Control could not make anything happen in the last minute on the scoreboard, taking the game to the halftime.

Six points finally made its way into the record books for Cloud Pest Control to start the second half of play. Getting away with flag guarding, Silas Banyas made it past the midfield line on the first snap of the football.

Jackson Hayes made the touchdown catch for Cloud, but the failed extra point attempt to Evan Christenson left the score at 13-6.

Blue Lagoon quickly marched down the field for another touchdown and an extra point by Dunbar.

Leading the game by 14 points, Blue Lagoon’s defense did not allow Cloud Pest Control to move down the field. Barreda tried to juke out the defense, but could not get by Roman Langley, who was credited with the flag pull.

The Cloud defense gave the ball back to its offense, leading to the touchdown by Hayes and taking the score to 20-12.

Blue Lagoon sealed the deal by taking the football into the end zone with 12.6 seconds left on the clock, ending the game with the score 26-12.

The playoffs are underway for the eight- to 10-year-olds. The older ballers start this week with semifinal action between #2 Island Charms playing #3 Beach House Real Estate for the 11-to 13-year old league, and #4 Grooms Automotive versus #5 Tyler’s Ice Cream on Wednesday, Feb. 20, at 7:30 and 8:30 p.m.

Related coverage

Football futures constructed by Moss Builders

Island Charms takes the win

Adult gridiron action at the Center

Marshall Tucker Band comes to Anna Maria

Written by SUN contributor on February 19, 2019. Posted in Entertainment, Events, Music.

ANNA MARIA – It’s not an April Fool’s joke. The Marshall Tucker Band is coming to The Center of Anna Maria Island for a one-night-only intimate show Monday, April 1. The Southern rock band will take the stage to play new songs and their hits, including such songs as “Can’t You See,” “Take the Highway,” “Fire on the Mountain” and “Heard it in a Love Song” at 8 p.m. A local band that has not been named yet is planned to open for the award-winning, multi-platinum group.

Tickets range from $50 to $65. All seats are reserved. Tickets can be purchased from the Manatee Performing Arts Center by phone at 941-748-5875 or online at www.manateeperformingarts.com. Space is limited so get your tickets early. Only 750 tickets will be made available for this event. The Marshall Tucker Band appears in conjunction with the Bradenton Area Convention and Visitors Bureau and the Manatee County Tourist Development Council. The Center is at 407 Magnolia Ave., Anna Maria.

Mayor and former city employee discuss recent firing

Written by Joe Hendricks on February 12, 2019. Posted in Anna Maria, Community News.

ANNA MARIA – City officials and former Code and Parking Enforcement Officer and administrative assistant Angela Albrecht hold differing views on the events that preceded her recent firing.

Albrecht was fired on Jan. 24 after meeting with Vice Mayor Brian Seymour, City Clerk LeAnne Addy and Deputy Clerk Debbie Haynes. Mayor Dan Murphy was on a cruise when the firing took place and was not consulted on the decision. Seymour, as the City Commission chair, was serving as the acting mayor and based on input received from Addy, Haynes and labor attorney Brian Koji, decided to terminate Albrecht.

According to Addy’s notes from the Jan. 24 meeting, Seymour wanted to address an email Albrecht sent Addy that day. He also wanted to address Albrecht’s allegation that the three of them were overheard discussing a need to talk to City Attorney Becky Vose about firing Albrecht.

According to the meeting notes, Seymour told Albrecht that Vose was not consulted because she’s not the city’s labor attorney. Albrecht told Seymour she would not resign, and he would have to fire her.

“Brian stated to Angela that we have tried working with her for over six months. Due to the tone of her emails, her unprofessionalism and the argumentative nature he will be letting her go today,” according to the meeting notes.

The printout of those notes was later signed by Seymour, Addy and Haynes.

On Feb. 7, Mayor Dan Murphy discussed the firing. He referenced the employee handbook when asked if he felt the firing was justified.

“Continued employment with the city is at the will and pleasure of the city of Anna Maria and as such employment may be terminated or disciplinary action taken without cause. Employees are hired and fired as ‘at-will’ employees and as such the city maintains the right to end your job with or without cause,” he said.

Albrecht on firing

When contacted by The Sun on Feb. 7, Albrecht was asked if she felt she was wrongly terminated.

“Yes,” she said, noting that she doesn’t feel the reasons for her firing were fully explained.

“They didn’t go into any specifics,” she said.

When asked if she plans to file a lawsuit against the city, Albrecht referenced a comment Murphy made to the press about being happy to tell the truth if this matter winds up in court. He also referred to her as a disgruntled employee.

“Right now, I don’t. After he made that comment I am going to look into it,” Albrecht said of a possible lawsuit. “I’m not a disgruntled employee.”

Albrecht alleges parking tickets were issued by non-certified parking enforcement officers.

“Some of the officers did not complete the certification course. Some officers were allowed to issue parking tickets without that certification,” she said.

Pam Gibbs was the Code and Building Department Manager until she retired in early 2018. Haynes is now the Code Enforcement Manager in charge of parking enforcement.

Albrecht said she felt code enforcement officers were no longer allowed to enforce pool fence and other safety issues after Murphy’s mid-2018 directive that parking, signs and trash issues be the primary enforcement concerns.

“If a fence isn’t closed there’s no way of knowing if there’s a pool behind there. I feel I should have been able to do my full job, like I did before,” Albrecht said.

Albrecht said her work environment became “toxic” after Gibbs retired and those supervisory responsibilities were transferred to recently-hired Building Official David Greenbaum.

“Nice guy, but he just didn’t know the job. I think he was in over his head,” Albrecht said.

Greenbaum was replaced by current Building Official Luke Curtis last summer.

On Feb. 5, Albrecht emailed city commissioners regarding the joint meeting of the Charter Review Committee and the City Commission scheduled for the following day. That meeting was to include discussion on whether Anna Maria needs a city manager. Albrecht’s email alleged Addy desired that position.

Addy applied for the city of Rockledge, Florida’s city manager’s position in June 2016 and was hired as Anna Maria’s clerk in August 2016.

Albrecht’s email referenced her Jan. 24 meeting with Seymour and said, “The background of City Clerk LeAnne Addy needs to be investigated. Public records I have received from the state of Wisconsin shows a past of bankruptcy, foreclosures and other issues.”

“There’s no shame in filing bankruptcy. It was fully disclosed to me before I hired her, I took it into account and I have no regrets,” Murphy said of hiring Addy, a former City Clerk in Wisconsin, who acknowledged the bankruptcy and foreclosure resulting from her husband’s job loss.

Additional allegations

On Dec. 3, the city received notification from the Spielberger Law Group that Albrecht was alleging the city violated federal and state employment laws and was in the process of filing discrimination charges with the U.S. Equal Employment Opportunity Commission and the Florida Commission on Human Relations.

That letter was preceded by a July 16 letter from the same law firm.

“Our investigation indicates the city’s treatment of Ms. Albrecht violates state law. City has subjected Ms. Albrecht to disparate treatment in retaliation to a complaint she had previously filed. Specifically, Ms. Albrecht contacted Mayor Dan Murphy to report unlawful and unethical practices, including a building official who allows those without work permits to work on certain projects,” the July letter said.

The July letter alleged the city harassed Albrecht rather than responding to her complaint and noted that Albrecht felt she was being positioned for termination.

“Our investigation suggests that city retaliated against Ms. Albrecht in violation of Florida’s Private Whistleblower Act,” the letter said.

“It is my understanding those are closed,” Albrecht said of the issues raised in those letters.

Disciplinary action

Albrecht received a written reprimand from Haynes on Jan. 16 regarding her conduct on Jan. 11.

Haynes serves as the Code Enforcement Manager and oversees parking enforcement.

Her reprimand stated Albrecht willfully and intentionally ignored a known safety issue and failed to report it to her. The issue stemmed partially from Albrecht’s dissatisfaction with Murphy’s 2018 directive that code enforcement officers concentrate primarily on parking, sign and trash issues.

“That directive did prioritize parking, debris and signage and cannot be interpreted by any competent code enforcement officer as requiring you to ignore safety. Your dissatisfaction with your job assignments is contributing to your misconduct and negative attitude. That type of conduct and attitude must cease immediately,” the reprimand said.

“The city has expanded considerable energy working to accommodate you. Please be advised that any continued misconduct or failure to meet the expectations of the city will result in more serious discipline, up to and including the termination of your employment,” the reprimand concluded.

In response to Haynes, Albrecht wrote, “You chose not to follow up on any of the open case items sent to you, including the pool safety fence at 752 North Shore.”

Parking and permits

Murphy addressed Albrecht’s assertion that parking tickets were written by uncertified parking officers.

The city took over parking enforcement in 2015. Before that, parking was enforced by the Anna Maria branch of the Manatee County Sheriff’s Office.

“My directions, since the very beginning of parking enforcement in 2015, were that every code enforcement officer must be certified. But in 2017, for two months, tickets were issued by an uncertified officer. I was not cognizant of that until yesterday and I’m still investigating,” Murphy said.

Murphy said he reviewed 15-20 tickets written by the uncertified officer and he feels the photos that accompany the citations support their validity.

Murphy said he asked Vose if state certification is required for the city’s parking enforcement officers.

“The state has requirements for certification, but Florida Home Rule seems to supersede that requirement. If a city wants to have a different certification program they can do so,” Murphy said.

Murphy addressed Albrecht’s claim that Addy ordered the building department to close fence permits in early 2018 without conducting final inspections.

“I can’t imagine how the city clerk would be involved in closing a permit when permits are the purview of the city planner and the building official,” Murphy said.

Charter review includes city manager discussion

Written by Joe Hendricks on February 12, 2019. Posted in Anna Maria, Community News.

ANNA MARIA – The Charter Review Committee met with city commissioners and Mayor Dan Murphy last week to discuss potential changes to the city charter.

Switching to a city manager form of government was discussed but there wasn’t any support for the idea. This led to discussion about the possibility of someday appointing a city administrator to assist the mayor. The Wednesday, Feb. 6 meeting session also included discussion about increasing the length of the terms served by the city’s elected officials.

Reviewed every five years, the 20-page city charter establishes the structural framework for Anna Maria’s strong mayor form of government. It also establishes the powers and duties of the mayor, commission chair, city commissioners, clerk, treasurer and city attorney. Former Mayor Fran Barford chairs the commission-appointed committee that also includes Jack Brennan, John Chambers, Sissy Quinn and Mark Short.

City manager

Switching to a city manager form of government would require a charter amendment adopted by the majority of Anna Maria’s registered voters.

Barford noted city manager discussions are taking place in Holmes Beach. She and Mayor Dan Murphy agree the mayor’s job has become more like a full-time job, but neither feels Anna Maria needs a city manager.

Murphy strongly opposes hiring a city manager that reports to the city commission.

“You’re asking somebody to serve five masters. It’ll work, but things won’t get done fast,” he said, making a comparison to corporations with board members who are heavily involved in the business operations.

Having worked with many boards and non-profit organizations, Commissioner Carol Carter agreed.

City administrator

The charter already authorizes the mayor to appoint a city administrator, with commission approval.

Murphy said a city administrator who reports to the mayor would make the mayor’s job easier. He said project management, like building a pier, was something that could potentially be delegated to a city administrator with the right experience.

He said a future mayor that lacks management expertise might rely heavily on an experienced city administrator. Murphy said the cost of hiring a city administrator is not yet justified, but the day is coming.

Commissioner Amy Tripp questioned whether a mayor’s workload can still be handled by one person.

“One of the things I’ve noticed over the years is city government becomes more and more complex,” Commissioner Doug Copeland said.

Copeland suggested the commission also be given the authority to appoint a city administrator if a situation arises where a mayor isn’t doing the work required and has significant time remaining in their term. This change would require a charter amendment.

“The feeling was the city clerk and our staff are really doing the administrator’s job, so for our sized city it’s working,” Barford said of the committee’s previous discussion.

Short said running a city is significantly more complicated than it was three, five or 40 years ago, and that’s one of the reasons he brought up a city manager. He’s OK with the commission also being given the authority to appoint a city administrator, but the administrator’s roles need to be set forth in that section of the charter, which the committee hasn’t reviewed yet.

Commission terms

Short asked how long it takes for a new commissioner to get up to speed and why terms are two years.

Carter said when she first ran she was asked what city ordinance she’d change if she could. She said she’d consider making commission terms longer because of the steep learning curve faced by those entering city government. She said Manatee County and Bradenton commissioners serve four-year terms, but four years might discourage some Anna Maria candidates.

“Three years might be more appealing in both directions,” Carter said.

Barford said it can be time-consuming and costly to run for office every two years. Copeland and Commissioner Dale Woodland do not spend time or money campaigning, nor do they support longer terms.

Commissioner Brian Seymour said he could see both sides of the issue and would favor three years over four.

Tripp cited the learning curve she experienced and said three-year terms might create a more effective city commission.

The Charter Review Committee will meet again Wednesday morning. Feb. 13.

Football futures constructed by Moss Builders

Written by Monica Simpson on February 12, 2019. Posted in Football, Sports.

The Center of Anna Maria Island’s youth sports program has always been known as the place to have fun, play sports and develop athletic skills. Over several decades, a lot has changed at what is now known as the Center, but children playing sports with adult volunteer coaches has not.

As the youth flag football season progresses on the big field with good competition with kids from 8 to 17 years old, the little field is the place where the younger ballers work both sides of the football in the youth flag football clinic.

Once again Ryan Moss of Moss Builders is enthusiastically taking the time out of his busy schedule to work with nearly 20 5- to 7-year-olds on the gridiron, including Moss’s two sons, Mason and Miles. Last Tuesday night, Moss was joined on the field by his father, Pastor Ed Moss of CrossPointe Fellowship.

The coaches separated the players into two teams to warm-up and practice some of their skills. With flags and pennies on, the scrimmage game ensued. On one side of the football was Dylan Sato, with younger sibling Brandon Sato on the other.

Pastor Moss helped get one of his players in the right position on the football field by gently picking him up and placing him in the correct spot.

Miles Moss played the center position most of the scrimmage, snapping the ball to B. Sato stepping into the footsteps of his father, Jason Sato, who played at the community center as a child and as QB in the adult flag football league.

Carrying on the family legacy, Camden Rudacille took the field with big brother Cale and dad Scott watching from the sideline. S. Rudacille, also an Island native, played many games over the years at the community center.

Brother and sister Boman and Tinley Sears saw action on the field with big plays for their teams. The Bomans were joined by Eli Lewis, who showed his defensive prowess during the scrimmage. Duncan Cloutier took the football down the field on a number of plays, gaining yardage for his team.

Over the past two months, the Moss Builders football clinic has seen football action by Guiliana Bankert and Brooklyn Melancon continuing the co-ed sports spirit of the Center. Preston Brighenti, Drew Buky, Hayden Eurice, Wade Kasten, Jack Melancon, Marcus Quinn and Landon Reuter worked to hone their skills in the clinic sessions before hitting the big field in the coming seasons.

The culmination of lessons learned in the clinics is progression onto the large field in the 8- to 10-year-old flag football league. Those playing in this age group are moving into playoff action, with semifinal play on Wednesday, Feb. 20, with #2 seed Progressive Cabinetry playing either #3 Slim’s Place or #6 Bins Be Clean.

In the second semifinal game #1 Beach Bums will go against the winner of the quarterfinal matchup between #4 Planet Stone and #5 Ugly Grouper.

The age group championship game is scheduled to play on Tuesday, Feb. 26 at 5:30 p.m.

Related coverage

Island Charms takes the win

Adult gridiron action at the Center

Hayward Cup winner is Sato Real Estate

Historical society readies for busy season

Written by SUN contributor on February 12, 2019. Posted in Entertainment, Museums.

ANNA MARIA – A record 8,000 people visited the Anna Maria Island Historical Society Museum last year, according to Society President Lynn Brennan. She spoke at the group’s Feb. 5 luncheon, her last as president.

Brennan pointed out improvements to the Belle Haven Cottage, such as replacing windows and trim on the historic building in preparation for tourist season, and told members visitors likely will exceed last year’s count.

At the meeting, members installed society co-founder Pat Copeland as their new president, Liz Hager as vice president, Barbara Murphy as recording secretary, Evelyn Hoskins as corresponding secretary and George McKay as treasurer. Board members installed include Brennan, Arlene Clark, Caryn Hodge and Valerie Wilson.

AMI Historical Society book — Peggy Donoho holds her book, “Miguel’s Bay,” at the Anna Maria Island Historical Society luncheon. – Tom Vaught | Sun

Guest speaker Peggy Donoho, of Bradenton, spoke about her book, “Miguel’s Bay,” that she co-authored with Tampa Bay Times newspaper reporter Ron Prouty. The book is about Miguel and Frederica Guerrero, two of the earliest settlers on Terra Ceia Island, a barrier island west of Palmetto. Donoho is a descendant of Guerrero and while researching the book, she learned Prouty was a descendant of the settlers, too.

Donoho sold autographed copies of her book after the meeting. The book is also for sale at the museum, 402 Pine Ave.

Anna Maria hosts parking study meeting

Coquina Beach added as new ferry stop

New setup time in effect for Anna Maria beach cabana rentals

78th Street beach access trial to begin soon

Flying over AMI during Labor Day weekend

Bradenton Beach Commission adopts 2026-27 budget

Anna Maria hosts parking study meeting

Coquina Beach added as new ferry stop

New setup time in effect for Anna Maria beach cabana rentals

78th Street beach access trial to begin soon

Flying over AMI during Labor Day weekend

Bradenton Beach Commission adopts 2026-27 budget

Proposed federal rule change threatens fishing

The Under the Sea Lagoon Experience

Salty Dawg: The thin line

The Sportsman Swap is back

Salty Dawg: The opinion of otters

Residents express concerns about sea turtle safety

It’s hot outside, let’s take a break

Surfside collapse impacts today’s condo owners

Tailgatin’ Sports Tavern opens in Cortez

April, May, June tourism remained strong

Too many people, too few homes

Great-grandson’s mural pays tribute to Sports Lounge’s Chicago roots

Center’s summer campers learn skimboarding

Skim competition returns to Anna Maria

Team Cablish & Gentile wins chamber golf tournament

Pat Carlucci discusses ‘Baseball in Paradise’

CENTER SCOREBOARD: Reel Coastal Properties claims flag football title

Lori Waggoner wins Key Royale Club’s match play tournament

Sections

Latest Stories

Political Cartoon

Mayor’s letter addresses parking study

Holmes Beach residents deserve genuine candidates

Salty Dawg: Sand dollars

Salty Dawg: The gift of getting salty

Salty Dawg: Two dolphins

Sections

Latest Stories

Churches of Anna Maria Island

Churches of Anna Maria Island

Insider’s Island – The insider’s guide to outdoors AMI

Readers’ Choice Awards 2025

Tag: Anna Maria

The Willow House – 222 Magnolia Ave., Anna Maria

Horne Home – 8403 Marina Dr., Holmes Beach

Kerschner Home – 637 Key Royale Drive, Holmes Beach

Fangmeyer Home – 92 52nd Street, Holmes Beach

Center Bazaar

Albrecht on firing

Additional allegations

Disciplinary action

Parking and permits

City manager

City administrator

Commission terms