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Center of Anna Maria Island

Center starts new year on solid financial footing

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

ANNA MARIA – The Center of Anna Maria Island greeted the new year with good news and the nonprofit’s board members hope it will just keep getting better.

During a January board meeting, board Treasurer Christine Hicks reported that at the close of December, the midpoint of the fiscal year, the Center had a net ordinary income of $100,304, which was $67,114 over budget and $94,281 over the previous year. Net ordinary income excludes capital income.

In capital income, the Center closed out at -$65,450, primarily due to an expected $50,000 reimbursement from Manatee County, which has not yet been received from the excess concession funds awarded in 2018 for capital improvements to the Center’s facilities. The organization closed out the month with a net income of $34,854, $28,831 over the previous year and $1,664 over budget.

Outside of cost-cutting measures, one of the items keeping the Center’s costs down, board Chair David Zaccagnino said, is that there are still two open positions on the nonprofit’s staff that he hopes will be quickly filled. The Center board is seeking an operations director and a development director to join the staff.

“Everything’s going good,” Zaccagnino said of the Center’s operations headed into season.

With The Outlaws concert oversold at about 600 tickets, he said he expects the estimated gross from the concert to the Center to be about $30,000. The concert was the first of three at the Center presented by the Bradenton Area Convention and Visitors Bureau and Manatee County Tourist Development Council. The Sandbar restaurant provided food and drinks for the event. Local musician Trevor Bystrom served as the concert’s opening act.

The next act to take to the Center stage will be Phil Vassar on Feb. 8 followed by B.J. Thomas on March 21. Other upcoming events include the two-night annual Murder Mystery Dinner Theater, the Tour of Homes and a fashion show.

The Center’s board members also are looking into starting a green initiative to improve the building for the environment with the added bonus of saving on utilities. The first part of the initiative being considered is refitting the exterior lights with LED bulbs to help improve visibility on the ground and lessen the light intrusion on the surrounding residences. If the board chooses to go with the LED lights, Executive Director Chris Culhane said it could potentially save the Center $1,000 per month in electricity costs.

Ed Chiles receives Citizen of the Year award

Ed Chiles receives Citizen of the Year award

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

ANNA MARIA – Ed Chiles is the City of Anna Maria’s 2018 Citizen of the Year.

Chiles owns the Sandbar restaurant, The Studio at Gulf and Pine and is a partner in the Pine Avenue Restoration Project that provides space for several Anna Maria businesses. His Chiles Group also owns the BeachHouse restaurant in Bradenton Beach and the Mar Vista Dockside Restaurant & Pub in Longboat Key.

City Commission Chair Brian Seymour presented Chiles the award during the Thursday, Jan. 24 commission meeting. Chiles was accompanied by his wife, Tina, his daughter, Ashley, and several well-wishers.

Before the presentation, Chiles shared his thoughts on the award.

“It’s an honor to join the group of people that have received this award and have made contributions to the City of Anna Maria. The city has given me and my family more than I could have ever given the city,” he said.

When presenting the award, Seymour thanked selection committee members Pat Copeland, Margaret Jenkins and Mary Seine for their efforts. He also recognized Barbara Murphy, Cindy Richmond and John Chambers as this year’s other nominees.

Seymour said Chiles received several nominations and he read aloud two of the nomination forms received, beginning with one submitted by local realtor Barbara Sato.

“I think it’s about time he’s awarded citizen of the year. He is constantly giving back to the community. He truly cares about our hometown. He is a great supporter of our school, our community center and anything that benefits our town. Over the years, many people have asked Ed for many things. Ed is always there, saying not just yes, but what else can I do? Not to mention the multiple events Ed does, from fireworks to fundraisers,” Sato wrote.

Seymour then read the nomination submitted by former Mayor Fran Barford and her husband, George.

“He uses his love of the City of Anna Maria and his resources to make it even better. Ed serves on boards and committees when asked and is always looking out for the well-being of our city. He actively supports education and never says no when asked to be involved. This involvement is not something new for him. He has been making positive things happen for many years in our city,” the Barfords wrote.

“The city has given me and my family more than I could have ever given the city.” – Ed Chiles, Anna Maria’s Citizen of the Year

Seymour also relayed a story on behalf of Mayor Dan Murphy, who was on vacation.

Seymour said Murphy appreciated the assistance Chiles provided when the red tide outbreak began affecting Anna Maria’s beaches. Murphy contacted Chiles about getting county assistance with the beach cleanup efforts.

“He enlisted your help and support and within 15 minutes it was taken care of – and I believe you were in Montana at the time,” Seymour said to Chiles.

“We appreciate it and congratulations. There is no one more deserving,” Seymour said before presenting Chiles with the award that contains a key to the city.

“I haven’t been in here in a while and I know you all appreciate that. I appreciate that. I spent a lot of time in this chamber over the years,” Chiles said, addressing those in attendance.

Chiles said he’s privileged that Anna Maria has always been a part of his life.

“I came here in utero when my mom (Rhea Chiles) was pregnant,” Chiles said.

His father, Lawton, was the governor of Florida from 1991 to 1998.

“Whatever little I’ve given, I’ve been given a lot more,” Chiles told the audience.

The award presentation was preceded by a reception in the commission chambers that featured bite-sized treats from Hometown Desserts and fruit punch that City Clerk LeAnne Addy concocted using her mom’s recipe.

City engineer terminates agreement with city

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

ANNA MARIA – The City of Anna Maria and Lynn Burnett and her LTA Engineers engineering firm have parted ways.

The development was announced during last week’s City Commission meeting when commission Chair Brian Seymour referenced a four-page printout the commissioners received in their city hall mailboxes. The printout contained some of the email exchanges shared among Burnett, Mayor Dan Murphy and Ayres Associates Vice President Jay Saxena in recent months.

“Lynn Burnett has terminated her professional agreement between LTA and the City of Anna Maria. We wish her well and we’ll still have the ability to use her in the future,” Seymour told the commission.

“She still will continue to work with the MPO (Sarasota/Manatee Metropolitan Planning Organization) and the ITPO (Island Transportation Planning Organization) on our behalf. We have Ayres as our other city engineers, so we feel confident moving forward,” Seymour said.

On Jan. 16, Burnett sent Murphy an email that said, “Following the events over the last several months, please accept this email as written notice of my termination of the Master Agreement for Professional Services between LTA and the City of Anna Maria. In the event that circumstances change and the city wishes to enter into a new agreement in the future, we would be more than happy to meet to discuss the terms and conditions of a new agreement.”

“I don’t anticipate any delays or issues with our work plan and our deliverables with her departure.” – Dan Murphy, Anna Maria mayor

On Dec. 5, Murphy sent Burnett an email that said, “As you will recall, you and I have had conversations about the city’s capital plans going forward and the role change your firm would play. It has been our intention to include your firm in this transitioning. However, if you do not wish to be part of this effort, please advise and the contract will be terminated according to the language contained in that agreement. It has been a pleasure working with your firm and we hope to continue that relationship going forward into 2019.”

The printout also contained a Dec. 2 email Burnett sent to Murphy, City Clerk LeAnne Addy and City Attorney Becky Vose regarding a letter and email correspondence she received from Ayres Associates.

“I am confirming that it is the city’s intent to terminate the master agreement for engineering services with LTA Engineers dated Feb. 8th, 2018,” Burnett wrote.

On Nov. 28, Saxena sent Burnett an email that said, “Please see attached letter providing some discussion regarding the transition of Ayres Associates as the prime city engineer and prime point of contact going forward in serving the city.”

The decision to use two engineering firms dates back to 2017, when both Burnett and Ayres responded to the city’s request for proposals for engineering services. It was decided then that Ayres would provide engineering and design services for the construction of a new city pier and Burnett would continue her work on the city’s stormwater, drainage, street and road projects.

When contacted Friday, Burnett said, “I have always been, and remain, very committed to the property owners, the residents and the three Island cities and I will continue to do my very best to look out for the interests of all three cities.”

After returning from his recent vacation, Murphy said on Sunday, “We thank Lynn for her past contributions to our city. I don’t anticipate any delays or issues with our work plan and our deliverables with her departure.”

While serving as Anna Maria’s city engineer, Burnett designed the vertical infiltration trenches that are part of the city’s stormwater retention, drainage and filtration system. She continues to serve as the contracted city engineer for the cities of Bradenton Beach and Holmes Beach.

Center soccer Hayward Cup winners

Hayward Cup winner is Sato Real Estate

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

The much-anticipated championship co-ed soccer game for the adults was finally played as the adult flag football season kicked off Thursday night at The Center of Anna Maria Island. After the final whistle of the first football game of the season blew, the gridiron turned into a pitch for the seven-on-seven soccer action.

Josh Sato brought his team out onto the field ready to defend their title. Kris Yavalar’s team went into the game ready to play hard, looking for the second title for Yavalar.

Sato Real Estate took the first shot, which went just left of the post. Zackary Lieb, for Team Lancaster Design, came back from the holidays ready to play, making strikes early in the game.

Goalkeeper Scott Bear prevented the goals finishing the game with 11 saves.

In the early defensive battle, Lancaster Design’s Cemal Duzgan’s first shot of the night was blocked by Sato. Yavalar’s follow-up shot went wide left of the post.

After eight minutes of play, Sato Real Estate’s Eric Pullen attempted to score with a header that went just over the crossbar.

Pullen’s tough offensive play gave him another scoring opportunity a minute later. His shot found the net, giving Sato Real Estate the first of five goals in the night.

Near midfield, Sato Real Estate’s Matthew Staggs made a quick strike that gave the ball to Francisco Oliviera. Trey Horne made the save for Team Lancaster Design.

Lancaster Design’s Nick Bouchard scored his team’s first goal after shot attempts from both teams. The goal that resulted from a great pass by Lieb to Sumiko Chipman, who made the assist, tied the game that would finally bring the season to an end.

The start of the second half of play brought about a shooting match. Lieb scored his second point of the night, kicking the ball between the two Sato Real Estate defenders Alta Bujarski and Nate Welch.

Welch once again tied up the matchup with a missile strike four minutes into the half. Sato Real Estate went ahead soon after, taking the score to 3-2.

Getting his second goal of the night, Welch put two points between Sato Real Estate and Lancaster Design.

Ryan Hogan answered back with less than seven minutes on the clock for Lancaster Design.

Oliviera put the final Sato Real Estate goal on the scoreboard for his team after 42 minutes of play.

Lancaster Design fought hard for the last four minutes of the game hoping to score two quick ones but to no avail. The Paul “Ace” Hayward Cup was to be for only one team: Sato Real Estate.

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Strong weekend for island wrestlers

Written by Sun staff on . Posted in Sports, Wrestling.

Center athletes traveled north to Brandon last weekend to compete on the wrestling mat as a part of a competitive wrestling team. Two champions came from the Center of Anna Maria Island’s team, Andrew Harwood and RJ Phelan.

Phelan’s sister, Savannah, brought home third place along with William Pakbaz and Jay Harrison.

In a strong showing additional team members Riley Karecki, Bam Gartman, Victoria Phelan, Clancy Cusack and Ceegan Cusack finished fourth in their divisions.

The Island wrestlers are expected to only get stronger as the season progresses one tournament at a time.

AM Fence Barren

Request to amend fence ordinance falls short

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

ANNA MARIA – Anna Maria commissioner Amy Tripp is concerned about the increasing number of solid vinyl fences and the lack of landscaping along the city’s residential streets.

Tripp’s fellow commissioners do not share her concerns.

On Thursday, Jan. 10, Tripp made an impassioned but unsuccessful plea for the commission to consider amending the city’s fence ordinance to better address non-transparent front yard fencing and additional landscaping requirements.

When making her PowerPoint presentation, Tripp expressed her belief that the city’s governing body has a responsibility to protect and preserve the city’s natural beauty and habitat and she believes an amended fence ordinance would help accomplish that.

AM Fence Tripp
Commissioner Amy Tripp recently made an impassioned plea to amend the city’s fence ordinance. – Joe Hendricks | Sun

She did not seek to impose new restrictions on existing front yard fences or existing and future back and side yard fences.

Before making her presentation, Tripp looked at how some other Florida cities and counties address front yard fencing and landscaping.

“In Sarasota, they speak of this visual vista and that is one of the things I feel like we are starting to lose by these barrier fences that are going up in the neighborhoods,” Tripp told the commission.

She noted that Anna Maria’s existing sign ordinance prohibits masonry, stone, brick, block or concrete walls.

“This is a shared environment and I think it’s up to us to protect it.”
– Amy Tripp, Anna Maria Commissioner

Front yard fences are limited to four feet in height and side and back yards fences are limited to six feet. Tripp believes the existing fence material prohibitions reflect previous city commissions’ intent to prevent fences that create a barrier effect.

“Where did you get that that was their intent? That’s not in the ordinance,” Commissioner Doug Copeland said, noting that he never understood why those fence materials were prohibited.

Tripp’s presentation included a photo of a house at the corner of Gladiolus Street and Jacaranda Street that has vinyl front yard fencing running parallel to both streets, with landscaping behind the fence, but only shells and gravel in front of it.

“It’s not so much the material, it’s the application of it being solid. They run the fence right up to the lot line, therefore no landscaping can go on the outside of it. But notice, on the inside it’s really lush. This is a shared environment and I think it’s up to us to protect it,” Tripp said.

She showed a photo of another property with solid vinyl front yard fencing that features landscaping between it and the street.

“They moved the fence up, so they could landscape on the outside,” Tripp said when expressing her view that this creates a more desirable appearance.

AM Fence Landscaped
Commissioner Amy Tripp wishes more of Anna Maria’s front yards looked like this. – Amy Tripp | Submitted

Tripp said Collier County requires see-through front yard fencing and landscaping in the three-foot setback between the fence and the street-side right of way.

“I think we should promote this type of fencing with this type of landscaping. I want an island with green space. What I’m seeing is a sterile look,” she said.

“A person has a right to privacy on their own property,” Commissioner Brian Seymour said of those who opt for solid front yard fences.

Commissioner Carol Carter said she agrees with Tripp from an aesthetic perspective, but the residents she spoke with don’t feel they should be forced to adhere to the commission’s aesthetic preferences for fencing.

“We have so much solid, non-landscaped fencing out there now that I don’t think a change in the ordinance will make that much difference to the visual vista of the city,” Carter said.

“I think the damage is done,” Seymour said.

Repeating something he’s stated before, Commissioner Dale Woodland said he doesn’t want the city of Anna Maria to feel like one big homeowners’ association. He likes the idea of promoting fence and landscaping elements that address Tripp’s concerns, but he doesn’t want them to be mandatory.

“It’s not a safety issue, it’s a perspective issue,” Woodland said.

Center sports ACE Hardware

Teens hit the gridiron: ACE Hardware takes the easy win

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

For more than 10 years, nearly half of the 27 boys in the 14- to 17-year-old flag football league have been friends on and off the flag football field at the Island’s community center. Now some of those same players who first took to the field when they were four years old are driving themselves to the games.

New and newer players to the league were welcomed by lifelong friends to play one of the most popular sports on the Island. ACE Hardware’s Bryce Gunter and Tyler Richards and Aaryn Scalone for Blue Lagoon secured their spots in The Center sports records in the first week of play after two weeks of rain postponements.

Thursday night the boys started another season at The Center of Anna Maria Island. With many of the supportive parents still in the bleachers rooting for and cheering on players on both sides of the field, ACE Hardware coach Chuck McCracken watched his team play a fun game of flag football against Blue Lagoon, coached by Randy Langley.

Despite the final score of 40-12, both teams playing in the recreational league laughed and relaxed during the two halves of play, enjoying a little time away from the pressures of high school and life as a teenager.

Free of video games and cell phones and friends since preschool, Tyler Brewer and Tuna McCracken took the field for ACE Hardware. During the first set of downs, Blue Lagoon’s possession of the ball was cut short by an interception by McCracken.

The ACE Hardware interception was run back for a touchdown, giving the team a quick six-point lead.

Blue Lagoon took back the football after the failed point after by ACE. The team, led by Rutger Langley, went three and out with a near interception. He is joined on the team by his younger brother Roman Langley. The Langleys attended Anna Maria Elementary School with many of the other boys in the league.

ACE Hardware’s Connor Ludwig, who joined the Island bunch in middle school, scored the next touchdown on a bomb by Brewer. Ludwig’s consistent receptions have been his trademark in the league for years.

Once again unable to convert, Blue Lagoon’s QB in the series felt the pressure of Brewer’s cousin Travis Bates. Bates forced Chris Snyder, who joined the league in elementary school, to scramble out of the pocket while waiting on an open receiver.

Three snaps of the ball are all it took for ACE Hardware to be on the march once again.

Blue Lagoon held its own preventing the ACE first down. Rutger Langley, as the quarterback, hit league veteran Jeremiah Sculco for the Blue Lagoon touchdown.

Also missing the extra point, Blue Lagoon left the score at 12-6.

Ludwig’s next great catch, with two minutes on the scoreboard clock, was followed by a short touchdown pass to Brewer. A sliding reception by Ludwig in the end zone took the score to 19-6.

Coming back on the field after halftime, Blue Lagoon took the ball on offense only to be intercepted by ACE Hardware’s David Daigle. Daigle, who met McCracken and Brewer in kindergarten at Anna Maria Elementary School, ran the ball into the end zone after the interception with Snyder diving unsuccessfully for the flag pull.

The score stayed at 25-6 as the result of another failed point after.

A faulty Blue Lagoon snap and a pass beyond the line of scrimmage led to the loss of the ball. The offensive possessions changed several times before ACE Hardware once again scored.

Daigle’s next catch of the game gained critical yards for his team. On the next snap, McCracken hit Morgan Horesh, who met his teammates in the third grade. Horesh ran the football the remaining length of the field for another ACE Hardware touchdown and the extra point.

Instituting the no rush mercy rule on ACE Hardware for having more than a 21-point lead, with the score 32-6, Snyder made a beautiful run on the first snap in the possession for a touchdown, slipping through the hands of all of the ACE Hardware defenders.

The missed point after left the score 32-12.

Showing his ups, Ludwig snagged the high pass by McCracken, turning after the catch to run for another six points. The extra point conversion increased the deficit to 28 points.

The final play of the game gave Snyder the ball with defenders purposefully at a standstill paving the way to end zone with the same love of playing on the community center’s field they did a decade ago.

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Studio at Gulf and Pine

Jane Seymour artwork at The Studio

Written by Tom Vaught on . Posted in Art, Entertainment.

The Studio at Gulf and Pine, 10101 Gulf Drive in Anna Maria, will host Up Close and Personal: The Art of Jane Seymour on Tuesday, Jan. 15, with nearly 50 original watercolors, oils, open heart bronze sculptures and limited-edition giclee prints on display and available for acquisition through Feb. 9.

Jane Seymour
Jane Seymour

The Emmy and Golden Globe award-winning actress, artist, author, designer and philanthropist will unveil the art exhibit and attend events throughout Bradenton area this month.

The Bradenton Area Convention and Visitors Bureau (BACVB) and Realize Bradenton invited Seymour to help unveil a new piece of public art on the Bradenton Riverwalk at 11 a.m. on Friday, Jan. 18, directly across from Veteran’s Monument Park.

Additionally, Seymour will appear at the Manatee Performing Arts Center at 502 3rd Ave. W., Bradenton on Saturday, Jan. 19, at noon, when she talks about her artwork. This intimate event will conclude with a short Q & A, followed by a book signing, and rare photo opportunity with the artist.

Tickets for this highly sought-after event are available for purchase through the Manatee Performing Arts Center.

Seymour is best known for her performances in the James Bond film “Live and Let Die,” “Somewhere in Time,” as well as the television series “Dr. Quinn, Medicine Woman.” Her work has earned her an Emmy, two Golden Globes and a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame.

In addition to being a celebrated actress, Seymour is also a lauded author and painter and designed the widely successful line of jewelry – Open Hearts by Jane Seymour. Crediting her mother’s advice and personal philosophy as her inspiration behind the line, the Open Heart design has become a universally-recognized symbol of giving and receiving love.

Anna Maria officials share hopes

Anna Maria officials share hopes

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

ANNA MARIA – Mayor Dan Murphy and Anna Maria Commissioners Brian Seymour and Amy Tripp recently shared their hopes for the city in 2019.

Completing the pier project and continuing the city’s drainage and street paving improvements currently sit atop the mayor’s to-do list.

“I’d really like to see some progress on red tide, but that’s not on my agenda. Something needs to be done; resources need to be put toward that,” Murphy said.

Murphy said the section of the new mixed-use trail that opened along Gulf Drive in October is a good start but there’s more to do regarding the expansion of the trail.

Now in his second term, Seymour will serve as the commission chair this year.

“My wish for the new year is that we have a new city pier by the end of 2019,” Seymour said.

“I would like to see the commission continue to look forward and utilize our long-term plan to focus on things that directly impact our residents, such as increased flood control measures, paving, infrastructure and other things that will help to make the city more livable for all residents.

“I hope the mayor and city staff continue, and maybe even add to, the city events at City Pier Park that help build our community spirit: the farmer’s market, Movies in the Park, our holiday events and more,” Seymour said.

“I wish for 2019 to leave everyone, happy, healthy and better off than 2018 has. Hopefully, there’s no return of red tide to our beautiful beaches that truly showcase what a special place we all live in,” he concluded.

Also in her second term as a commissioner, Tripp said, “I believe we will see significant progress in the new pier, more drainage management and my fingers are crossed that we will have more multiple use paths. I am pleased with the city team: the mayor, the sitting commission, the city staff and our city’s volunteer base.

“We are fortunate that we were still able to retain our city’s home rule after last year’s state legislative session, however, that will be back again. Losing home rule is one of Anna Maria’s biggest threats to the quality of living we currently have. Without home rule and local regulations, local accountability and safety will be greatly reduced,” Tripp said.

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Sun Person Murphy

Dan Murphy is Sun’s Person of the Year

Written by Joe Hendricks on . Posted in Featured, Opinion.

ANNA MARIA – Anna Maria Mayor Dan Murphy is The Sun’s 2018 Person of the Year.

Working with the city commission, city staff and outside contractors, Murphy spent much of 2018 working on getting a new Anna Maria City Pier built.

Already due for significant rehabilitation, the aging pier was closed in September 2017 because of damage sustained during Hurricane Irma.

In 2018, Murphy secured $750,000 in pier funding from the state legislature, approximately $800,000 from FEMA and $1.8 million from Manatee County, and his pursuit of funding sources for the estimated $4.85 million pier project continues.

Before the pier was demolished in July, Murphy secured at no cost to the city the services of local contractor Frank Agnelli and his crew, who removed the engraved wooden pier planks so they could be returned to those who requested them. The remaining planks will be used to build memorial walls.

The first pilings for the new pier platform are scheduled to be driven the third week of January. The contract with i+iconSoutheast requires the pier platform to be done by August 26.

The construction of the restaurant, bait shop and public restrooms at the pier’s T-end will be handled as a separate and congruent project contingent on the terms Murphy and pier tenant Mario Schoenfelder negotiate regarding the tenant’s contribution to the interior buildout of the pier building.

Murphy said the pier platform will be opened to the public once the pier building shell is constructed. If needed, the interior buildout can take place after that.

Other accomplishments

Working with the commission and city staff, Murphy helped create the city-sponsored seasonal farmer’s market that debuted in City Pier Park in March and resumed in October, and also Movies in The Park, a weekly family film night, that began last January and resumed in December.

Murphy, a military veteran, was the driving force behind the city’s annual Veterans Day parade and the post-parade ceremonies in City Pier Park that took place for the second time in November. He also helped create the annual Holiday Carols in the Park and Fourth of July cookouts.

Working with City Attorney Becky Vose and lobbyist Chip Case, Murphy helped torpedo state legislation aimed at lessening Florida cities’ ability to regulate vacation rentals by introducing a sexual predator amendment that killed the proposed legislation.

Murphy and the commission dedicated significant funds for drainage and stormwater projects and agreed to make an additional $100,000 lump sum payment on the $2.84 million loan secured in 2011 to purchase the City Pier Park property. The additional payments significantly reduce the length of the loan and the interest owed.

In past years, Murphy and the commission adopted the vacation rental ordinance and registration program that created an expanded code enforcement department funded primarily by registration fees.

Murphy’s reflections

Murphy, a former Verizon executive, and his wife, Barbara, moved to Anna Maria in 1993 after living in Holmes Beach for nearly two decades. He was elected mayor in 2014 and ran unopposed in 2016 and 2018.

Murphy said he spent about 60 percent of his mayoral time this year working on the pier.

“I get nothing but compliments about what we’re doing with that pier. We worked real hard and now we’re at the beginning. It’s probably going to consume even more time, but I’m confident we can deliver and make sure we’re getting what we’re paying for. Once construction starts, I think it’s going to become a sightseeing attraction for people to come watch the construction and the progress,” he said.

Drainage improvements also remain a high priority. “We made a lot of progress with drainage, but we’ve still got a long way to go. We’ve got an aggressive plan for 2019 and I want to make sure we hit our target dates,” Murphy said.

Regarding the impact of the city events held in and around City Pier Park, Murphy said, “They build a sense of community within the city of Anna Maria. They also stimulate the city’s economy by bringing people to Anna Maria and showing them what the city has to offer.”

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Anna Maria year in review

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

ANNA MARIA – The replacement of the Anna Maria City Pier, the red tide cleanup, increased drainage and paving expenditures, beach access rights and city-hosted special events were among the city’s newsmakers in 2018.

Red tide cleanup

While county crews attended to the cleanup of Anna Maria’s Gulfside beaches, Mayor Dan Murphy called on Cortez commercial fishermen Nathan Meschelle and Michael Dolan in early August to remove dead fish and seagrass from the city’s north shoreline, near the former and future site of the Anna Maria City Pier. Meschelle and Dolan were joined by Cortez fishermen Tanner Pelkey and Matt Smith for a second cleanup effort later that month.

During August and September, the Gulf of Mexico shoreline between Bean Point and the Sandbar restaurant was often littered with dead fish, crabs, eels and other sea life, but the constant cleanup efforts of Manatee County surf rake operator Mark Taylor made the beaches still useable for residents and visitors.

Pier replacement

When 2018 began, the Anna Maria City Pier, built in 1911, was still standing as plans were being made to replace it with a new pier. After the engraved wooden planks were removed, the pier was demolished in July.

In late November, the City Commission authorized a $3.33 million contract with the i+iconSoutheast construction firm to build the new pier platform and decking.

The first pilings are scheduled to be driven during the third week of January and the project is to be completed by late August. The new pier will feature IPE hardwood decking atop concrete spun pilings, designed to resemble the old pier.

A separate request for proposals will be issued at some point in early 2019 for the construction of the building at the pier’s T-end that will house a restaurant, bait shop and restrooms. The pier replacement project is expected to be fully completed by December, if not sooner.

City improvements

In October, the initial section of the city’s new multi-use trail opened. Located along the northeastern edge of Gulf Drive, the trail begins at the entrance to the city and extends north to Willow Avenue, which leads to North Shore Drive and provides pedestrians, joggers, bicyclists and others with an escape from the heavy traffic and limited space along Gulf Drive.

When adopting the 2018-19 fiscal year budget in September, the mayor and commission increased drainage and stormwater improvement expenditures from $589,000 to $845,000. Street paving expenditures were increased from $318,000 to $643,000.

Soon after the year began, the commission supported the mayor’s suggestion that the city’s annual vacation rental registration fees be based on occupancy rather than the one-size-fits-all fee levied in previous years.

Beach access

In April, concerns were raised as to whether a private property owner was trying to prevent passersby from walking on the state-owned shoreline that lies seaward of the mean high-water line along South Bay Boulevard. A resident and a visiting friend told the City Commission the property owner yelled at them and told them to leave his property. The property owner later said he did not yell at anyone and was simply trying to protect his property rights. In May, Mayor Dan Murphy expended city funds to have the property line in question surveyed and there has been no further public discussion.

City events

As part of the mayor and commission’s desire to use City Pier Park, the city-sponsored, Tuesday-morning farmer’s market opened beneath the shade sail in March. After stopping for the summer months, the market resumed in October.

The city’s Wednesday evening Movies in the Park film screenings began in January, stopped when Daylight Saving Time took effect in March and resumed in December.

In November, the city hosted is second annual Old Soldiers & Sailors Parade that traveled down Pine Avenue and ended at City Pier Park, where a veteran’s ceremony followed.

Elections and appointments

In early November, Mayor Dan Murphy and commissioners Amy Tripp and Brian Seymour were elected to additional two-year terms after running unopposed in the city elections.

In December, the commission appointed the volunteer Charter Review Committee that will spend the first part of 2019 reviewing the city charter.

Holiday of Treasures Two Scoops

Holiday of Treasures beats the rain

Written by Joe Hendricks on . Posted in Entertainment, Holiday.

ANNA MARIA – The rain and windy weather held off just long enough for the Anna Maria Holiday of Treasures Open House to take place as planned on Friday, Dec. 14 from 5:30-8 p.m.

With Pine Avenue closed to vehicular traffic, folks wandered up and down the street visiting the participating businesses that offered free treats including hamburgers, hotdogs, cookies, sangria, craft beer, specialty cocktails, gourmet popcorn, wine and more.

Holiday of Treasures Beach Bums
The longest line of the night was for the free burgers served at Beach Bums. – Joe Hendricks | Sun

“We’re serving up a storm. We just love Christmas and the holidays, and we’re excited to give back to the community and have a little fun,” Two Scoops owner Dave LaBell said.

The line for free burgers was also long at Beach Bums.

“Every year we’re hopping,” Chris Gaines said while manning the grill outside Beach Bums.

The holiday festivities extended around the corner on Gulf Drive, where Harry’s Grill owner Mark Labriola dished up pasta fazool “Labriola-style.”

Free cookies and cider were served at the AMI Historical Society Museum, and the Roser Memorial Community Church’s Joyful Noise Children’s Choir performed inside the museum.

The rain finally arrived around 8 o’clock; some of the businesses had decided earlier not to participate due to the weather concerns. The Anna Maria General Store & Deli postponed its holiday porch party until Friday, Dec. 21 from 6-10 p.m.

Anna Maria holiday carol singers

Community gathers for holiday carols in the park

Written by Joe Hendricks on . Posted in Entertainment, Events, Holiday, Music.

ANNA MARIA – The city hosted a weather-modified Holiday Carols in the Park event on Friday, Dec. 14.

Despite the threat of rain, nearly 100 people showed up at City Pier Park late Friday afternoon for the second annual event.

City Commissioner Doug Copeland and city staff members dispensed ice cream-enhanced eggnog and cookies.

Anna Maria holiday carols Eggnog
City Commissioner Doug Copeland serves eggnog to Anna Maria residents Carol Conte and Michael Cusato. – Joe Hendricks | Sun

Members of the Public Works Department assisted Santa Claus as he appeared through a cloud of multi-colored smoke at the far end of the park. After Mayor Dan Murphy greeted Santa, the children lined up to speak with the jolly one. Santa also got a few kisses from a small dog named Piglet.

Weather concerns led to the cancellation of the vocal and instrumental performances to be given by students from St. Stephen’s Episcopal School, but Bob Carter, Barbara Murphy and Angie Blunt led the crowd assembled underneath the shade sail structure in a Christmas carol sing-along.

“I wish the weather had cooperated a little more, but this is one of those things where you go with what you’ve got. That was what we decided, and I’m glad we did. The children are enjoying it and that’s the important thing,” Murphy said of his 2 p.m. decision to proceed with the event.

The holiday event was part of the city’s continued efforts to utilize City Pier Park as a community gathering place.

“It’s a place to get together, celebrate and have a good time. We’re trying to foster a sense of community and these events bring people together in one place to chat, renew acquaintances and make new acquaintances. This is a perfect fit for the park, I can’t think of a better use. And what’s better than a sing-along?” Murphy said.

When asked if the mayor has Christmas wish for the citizens and business owners of Anna Maria, Murphy said, “Yes. I’d like for you to have a new pier.”

The construction of the new Anna Maria City Pier is slated to begin in late-January.

Center of Anna Maria Island adult soccer kick

Sato Real Estate on top again

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

The last regular season co-ed adult soccer game ended Thursday night with Lancaster Design pulling out the big win over Jiffy Lube.

After Moss Builders took the first victory of the night over Eason Builders, Slim’s Place earned its first win of the season against a winless Ross Built Construction.

Sato Real Estate handed AMI Locals its third loss of the season. Playing with a demanding defensive attack lead by Alta Bujarski, Sato Real Estate’s Andrew Schmidt lead the team out of the gate with a beautiful shot.

Matthew Staggs took the second score statistic, advancing the score to 2-0 two minutes into the game.

Team captain Kevin Roman hit the net next for his team, AMI Locals. Schmidt followed up with his second point of the game with 17 minutes left in the half.

Tyler Robinson, Roman’s teammate of the sponsored AMI Locals, brought the game to a one-point spread with the score 3-2.

The third game of the night ended with a goal by Chris Culhane, taking the score to 4-2.

Danny Anderson, the leader of Jiffy Lube, started the last game with a bang, scoring within the first few minutes of the game.

Anderson’s brother Ricky put the second point on the scoreboard, and teammate Nathan Kragt scored the third goal with 10 minutes left in the half.

Just as it looked like Jiffy Lube was going to run away with the game, Lancaster Design’s team woke up and started its scoring streak at the 17th minute by Zackary Lieb.

Right before the end of the first half of the game, D. Anderson struck the soccer ball for the teams fourth and final goal of the night.

At the very start of the last 23 minutes of play, Lancaster Design came out scoring. Lieb scored the next two goals tying the ball game 4-4.

With a tie looking to be the destiny for the match, Lieb put his team head and gave it the win with a little over five minutes left on the clock.

The second round of the playoffs will start at 6 p.m. on Thursday, Dec. 13.

Related Coverage

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Top teams take the championship

Planet Stone, Bins Be Clean, Sato Real Estate on top

Anna Maria Holiday of Treasures elf

Holiday of Treasures Open House is Friday

Written by Joe Hendricks on . Posted in Art, Entertainment, Events, Family fun, Holiday.

ANNA MARIA – As part of the Holiday of Treasures Open House, Anna Maria merchants invite folks to stroll through the city and enjoy light refreshments at participating businesses along Pine Avenue and Gulf Drive on Friday, Dec. 14.

Taking place from 5:30 to 8 p.m., the annual holiday event is sponsored again this year by the Anna Maria Island Historical Society and the Anna Maria Island Sun.

Free cookies and cider will be served at the AMI Historical Museum, 402 Pine Ave., and the Roser Memorial Community Church’s Joyful Noise Children’s Choir will perform a free outdoor concert in the museum’s Historical Park at 6 p.m.

Up and down Pine Avenue and Gulf Drive various participating businesses will be serving free hot dogs, hamburgers, Christmas cookies, eggnog and rum, hot buttered rum, Moscow Mule cocktails, bourbon ball candy, craft beer, coffee, tea and even pasta fagioli. Stroll through the businesses Friday to see for yourself what holiday surprises they have in store. You might even find a porch party along the way.

Holiday Carols in the Park

The Anna Maria Holiday of Treasures Open House will be preceded that day by the city’s second annual Holiday Carols in the Park holiday event. The city event will take place at City Pier Park on Friday, Dec. 14 from 4-6 p.m.

The Saint Stephen’s Upper School Band, the Falcon Voices high school choir and the Major Minors middle school chorus will perform holiday music and sing-alongs. Santa will pay a visit to the park, goodies will be given to youngsters and free eggnog and refreshments will be served.