Skip to main content

Tag: Bradenton Beach

Police warn of ‘fresh towel’ scam

Police warn of ‘fresh towel’ scam

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

BRADENTON BEACH – Police are warning unsuspecting visitors of a possible scam.

A group visiting from Illinois was staying at a rental unit on Avenue A in Bradenton Beach when a tan-colored late-1990s or early-2000s sedan pulled into the driveway and a Hispanic woman in her mid-30s to early 40s got out of the car and approached the renters, according to a report filed by Officer John Tsakiri on May 5.

She asked in broken English if they were owners or renters. The group confirmed that they were renting, and the woman asked if they had enough clean towels. She walked into the house through the garage, then walked out of the house and said “OK, I’m leaving.” The woman got into her car and left the rental unit.

The renters contacted the rental company and told them about the woman, who was not authorized to be there. Police believe this may be a scam to allow the woman to enter the home and search for valuables to steal if no one follows her.

Police urge you to report suspicious activity and not allow anyone in your rental unit unless you are aware in advance they will be coming. If you observe suspicious activity, call the police immediately at 941-778-6311 and report the incident.

Residents request end of expanded outdoor seating

Residents request end of expanded outdoor seating

Written by Joe Hendricks on . Posted in Bradenton Beach, Community News, Featured.

BRADENTON BEACH – Restaurant seating areas that expanded to sidewalks and parking lots because of the COVID-19 pandemic may be disappearing.

During general public comment at the May 5 Bradenton Beach City Commission meeting, Old Bridge Village condominium residents Bruce Herard and David Bell asked the city commission to let the expanded seating allowances expire. Old Bridge Village is located on Bay Drive South, near the Bridge Tender Inn & Dockside Bar.

The Bridge Tender Inn, Drift In, Blue Marlin Grill and Wicked Cantina are among the Bradenton Beach establishments that expanded their seating areas under City Ordinance 21-533. The city commission adopted the ordinance in June 2021 to assist local businesses with their recovery from the pandemic. Ordinance 21-533 continued and expanded the allowances originally granted by the adoption of Ordinance 20-516 in May 2020.

COVID-19 in Manatee County

 

May 1

Cases 185

% Positivity 10.41%

Deaths < 10

% Eligible population vaccinated 71.9%

New hospital admissions 13

 

May 8

Cases 493

% Positivity 13.13%

Deaths <10

% Eligible population vaccinated 72%

New hospital admissions 13

 

Source: CDC

The 2021 ordinance states: “Retail and restaurants and food establishments may expand dining and retail areas to certain areas of private property not typically permitted for dining and retail space, such as setbacks, walkways and parking areas. The expanded area may not be used for anything other than merchandise or seating. All other uses, such as outdoor entertainment, in these areas are prohibited. Outdoor entertainment may only be located in those areas previously used and permitted prior to the adoption of Ordinance 20-516.

“Retail and restaurants and food establishments may convert up to 50% of on-site private parking spaces to outdoor dining and retail. All other uses, such as outdoor entertainment, in these areas are prohibited unless a waiver is applied for and approved by the city commission.”

The ordinance continues: “Tents may be erected to provide shade for the dining area. All tents or shade structures shall be removed within 12 hours of a declaration of a state of emergency, or immediately following the request of city staff due to dangerous weather conditions.”

The ordinance established a registration process for businesses to begin or continue using expanded outdoor seating areas.

Expiration requested

The Bridge Tender Inn & Dockside Bar’s expanded seating area includes a temporary tent-like structure at the south end of the property which shelters live music performances.

Residents request expiration of expanded outdoor seating
The Bridge Tender Inn’s outdoor seating area was expanded during the pandemic to include the additional covered seating to the right. – Joe Hendricks | Sun

When addressing the commission, Herard said, “I live on the third floor facing the Bridge Tender and I can’t have dinner outside or hold a conversation on the lanai because the music’s so loud. When we watch television at night, we shut the door, shut the windows and we have to turn up television louder than you would normally have to because the music is so loud. This has been going on for two years now. I think we’ve got to find a way for businesses and residents to be able to coexist.”

Herard said he and his wife moved into their condo in 2018 and enjoy living within walking distance of the local restaurants and businesses.

Residents request expiration of expanded outdoor seating
Old Bridge Village resident Bruce Herard wants the Bridge Tender Inn to move its live music inside. – Joe Hendricks | Sun

“The Bridge Tender had music then too, but it was inside. We could hear it, but when it’s inside it’s not detracting from the quality of your living experience,” he said.

“Manatee County’s (COVID-19) transmission levels are low. There are no CDC requirements that restrict anything related to restaurants’ seating requirements and operations. The music at the Bridge Tender should move back inside because 21-533 is now expired,” Herard said.

When addressing the commission, Bell said, “Ordinance 20-122 and 21-533, they’ve served their purpose. Bruce wanted to talk specifically about one place, I wanted to talk about all of them.”

Bell noted the expanded seating allowances granted in 2020 and 2021 were not meant to be permanent.

“People told me if the tents go up, they will never come down, and that’s what we have seen. I told people the tents would not comply with the building code and that’s why they’d be temporary. They would not become permanent structures. They are a safety issue for residents and visitors and now we’re seeing more hardening of the tents. They’re putting in more posts and frameworks are growing around them,” Bell said.

Residents request expiration of expanded outdoor seating
Old Bridge Village resident David Bell noted restaurants are no longer subject to COVID-19-related seating restrictions. – Joe Hendricks | Sun

Citing language contained in Ordinance 21-533, Bell said, “This ordinance shall expire and be deemed to have been repealed once all COVID-related limitations to the operations of restaurants and retail locations impacting capacity of occupancy loads or social distancing requirements are no longer a recommendation by the Center for Disease Control and Prevention. Alternatively, the city commission may sunset the ordinance at a noticed public hearing.”

Bell then noted, “It’s tied to the CDC and all restrictions have been removed. I checked with the county. There are no restrictions. I respectfully request that you take action to address this expired ordinance by ending it.”

Residents request expiration of expanded outdoor seating
The Wicked Cantina has used the city’s expanded outdoor dining allowances. – Joe Hendricks | Sun

In response to the public input, Mayor John Chappie said he would place the matter on the agenda for the Thursday, May 19 commission meeting. That meeting will begin at noon and public input from residents and business owners will be allowed.

The Centers for Disease Control report that COVID-19 cases in Manatee County rose from 185 on May 1 to 493 on May 8.

New charter review committee forms

Written by Joe Hendricks on . Posted in Bradenton Beach, Community News.

BRADENTON BEACH – The City Commission has appointed a new charter review committee and term limits for elected officials could be one topic for discussion.

Commissioners approved the committee appointments recommended by City Attorney Ricinda Perry and Mayor John Chappie on April 7. The committee consists of former Planning and Zoning Board chairman Dan DeBaun, Jim Hassett, Anne Leister, Tom Little and former city commissioner Ed Straight. Former charter review committee member Debra Cox will serve as the alternate member. The members are all Bradenton Beach residents.

The appointments and charter review process were formalized by the commission’s adoption of city resolution 22-953.

The committee will review and recommend potential amendments to the city charter. The city charter can only be amended by a majority vote of the city’s registered voters.

The Bradenton Beach charter sets forth how the city is governed – a “weak mayor” form of government – and establishes the roles and duties of the city’s elected officials. It also establishes the four existing city commission wards and the term limits that restrict a city commission member to serving three consecutive two-year terms. The charter also contains the building height restrictions that prohibit the construction of high-rise buildings.

According to state law, a city charter must be reviewed at least once every five years. The Bradenton Beach charter was last reviewed four years ago, in 2018. Perry told the commission that conducting the charter review now rather than next year would allow any proposed charter amendment questions to be placed before voters during the upcoming 2022 general elections rather than during a non-general election in 2023.

“We would prefer our charter amendments to go out when there’s a larger voter turnout. It produces a better result for the community,” Perry said.

Perry said the committee will begin meeting later this month and any charter amendments recommended by the committee and supported by the city commission must be submitted to the Manatee County Supervisor of Elections Office in June.

Term limits and ward sequence

Perry recommended the charter review committee discuss the potential elimination of the city’s existing term limits. She noted Bradenton Beach is the only city on Anna Maria Island with term limits.

During the 2021 elections, 177 Bradenton Beach voters (51.75%) opposed eliminating the existing term limits and 165 voters (48.25%) supported eliminating term limits. That charter amendment question was placed on the ballot by the city commission, as allowed by state law, without the appointment of a charter review committee.

If the existing term limits are not eliminated, Mayor John Chappie and Commissioner Jake Spooner will term limit out of office in November 2023.

Perry also recommended that the committee consider re-numbering two of the four existing commission wards so the wards are in proper sequential order. Due to the previous voter-approved elimination of the commission wards and the subsequent voter-approved reinstatement of the commission wards – further complicated by resulting re-election eligibility impacts for some commissioners – the wards are currently sequenced from north to south as Ward 4, Ward 3, Ward 1 and Ward 2. Perry recommends the ward numbers be sequenced 4, 3, 2 and 1 from north to south.

A copy of the city charter updated in November 2021 can be found online.

Annie Silver looking at busy spring

Annie Silver Center looking at busy spring

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

BRADENTON BEACH – The Annie Silver Community Center has been a fixture in this community for more than 70 years, and 2022 is off to a great start, continuing the tradition of offering events for members of the community to enjoy at a reasonable price.

The Annie Silver board of directors met for their monthly meeting on March 14 and announced upcoming events, as well as the center’s immediate needs.

The next book sale will be Friday, April 8 from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. A potluck lunch also will be served. Anyone in the community is welcome to bring a dish – you do not need to be a member to participate. Come out and meet your neighbors, even if you are just visiting the Island. Have a bite to eat and browse some great books available for purchase at reasonable prices. The group is also looking for volunteers to help with the book sale, and to help organize the books at the center on a regular basis. 

Bingo has been held every Thursday at 6 p.m., but this Thursday, March 31, will be the final bingo of the season, so if you want to have a great time while helping out the center, make plans to attend.

The board members of Annie Silver Community Center thank Moose Lodge #2188 in Bradenton Beach and Administrator Byron Dalton for their generous donation of pizzas for the center’s Feb. 25 dinner event. They are also looking for the unidentified woman who made the delicious little Italian cookies. Everybody loved them, but nobody was able to identify the mystery woman who stole the show. 

The next board meeting will take place on Monday, April 11 at 4 p.m. at the Center. You do not need to be a member to attend, just show up and make yourself at home. If you have a knack for trimming trees and bushes, you will have a chance to volunteer. The center is currently in need of some help doing some light trimming. 

Bradenton Beach considering towing standards and maximum fees

Bradenton Beach considering towing standards, maximum fees

Written by Joe Hendricks on . Posted in Bradenton Beach, Community News.

BRADENTON BEACH – City officials are concerned about the towing practices being used by a Bradenton-based towing company.

City Attorney Ricinda Perry initiated the towing concern discussion during the Thursday, March 3 city commission meeting. Perry and Police Chief John Cosby were directed by commissioners to develop city-wide towing standards and maximum fees to be considered at a future meeting.

“I have received a number of communications from the community, businesses, elected officials and the police department about towing in the city,” Perry told the commission.

She said state law sets forth how and where towing signs are placed and worded to legally tow a vehicle. She said towing companies have to provide local law enforcement agencies with copies of their current rates and those rates must be posted at the properties where a towing company has towing rights.

“I don’t really want to get into the business of telling the towing company or business where they’ve got to put the signs,” Perry said. “If they can’t read the statute and put the signs where they belong, then that’s on them; and the individual who is towed has the right to challenge that they shouldn’t have been towed because it was improperly signed per the statute.”

Police chief’s insight

“We have gotten several requests from attorneys that have dealt with this,” Chief Cosby said. “It’s just one company. My officers have cited them twice already: one was because they had improper lights on their truck and the other was when they dropped the car off the truck. And they just had an incident up in Holmes Beach where they dropped a Cadillac Escalade off the truck. It veered across traffic and ran into something.”

Cosby told The Sun he was referring specifically to Manatee Towing.

He added that some properties containing the towing company’s signs are under construction or are being renovated and are not occupied or fully occupied. When those properties are occupied, he said, the property managers and patrons should know which vehicles are legally parked there.

Cosby referenced the Anna Maria Inn/Pelican Post resort property at 202 First Street N. and another property on Third Street South where towing has recently occurred.

Bradenton Beach considering towing standards and maximum fees
The Anna Maria Inn/Pelican Post resort utilizes the services of Manatee Towing. – Joe Hendricks | Sun

A visit to the Anna Maria Inn/Pelican Post resort property that evening revealed at least one Manatee Towing sign present on the property.

“The gentleman is being given carte blanche to tow from the area,” Cosby said.

Regarding other properties, Cosby said that before a vehicle can be towed from the Circle K convenience store property the tow truck driver has to consult with the sales clerk.

The towing company being discussed, he said, has carte blanche to tow cars illegally parked at the Bradenton Beach Post Office, where after-hours and weekend parking is allowed in certain parking spaces only, with three spaces reserved at all times for post office patrons only.

Commissioner Jake Spooner said tow trucks constantly circling in the Bridge Street area contribute to the traffic congestion.

“They’re making a fortune doing it, too,” he added.

Cosby said legal fees being incurred by the towing company may be cutting into their profits.

“I wish we had a company that was somewhat reasonable and professional, where they’re not dropping cars and have functioning equipment,” Spooner said.

He questioned whether the city could select one towing company to serve as the city’s towing vendor.

Mayor John Chappie noted the city previously issued a request for proposals seeking a designated towing company for the city’s towing needs, but the city received no responses.

Cosby said the city doesn’t have the legal right to require a property owner to use a certain city-approved towing company.

City standards

Spooner asked if the city could establish maximum fees for towing or releasing a vehicle that’s about to be towed. Perry said the state statute allows a city or county government to establish those maximum fees.

Bradenton Beach considering towing standards and maximum fees
Manatee Towing provides towing services for the commercial building occupied by Bamboo Island Bar and others. – Joe Hendricks | Sun

“I would suggest the city seriously consider exercising its right under the statute and help mitigate the problem that people are complaining about,” Perry said.

“I’d be happy to do that,” Spooner said.

Spooner then commented on an incident that took place the previous night.

“A couple of elderly ladies parked in the handicapped spot in front of the post office,” he recalled. “They (the towing company) jerked their car and now they’re stranded out here. They’ve never taken an Uber in their life. One of my employees got them an Uber. It creates major issues for people and then you get there and they only take cash and need another Uber to go to a 7-Eleven or somewhere to get cash.”

“Imagine if your car is in east Bradenton and you have no way to get there,” Spooner said of the inconvenience created by towing.

Perry said she knows someone who was recently towed and had to walk a mile to get cash to get their vehicle back.

Bradenton Beach considering towing standards and maximum fees
The Bridge Tender Inn uses Manatee Towing as its towing company. – Joe Hendricks | Sun

Cosby said the city could establish maximum fees, but he doesn’t know how the city could enforce those towing rates that are paid to the towing company at its property in Bradenton. He also said every car towed needs to be reported to the Manatee County Sheriff’s Office so the owner knows the vehicle wasn’t stolen.

Commissioner Jan Vosburgh said aggressive tow companies give the city of Bradenton Beach a bad reputation.

Cosby said, “Somebody that has a business in the city – I’m not going to say who – is allowing him to use property in the village (Cortez) to tow the cars to so he doesn’t have to take them all the way out (to the Bradenton headquarters).”

Spooner questioned whether that practice is legal and whether each vehicle has to be towed directly to the towing company property, where the vehicle can be reclaimed.

“That is going to be Manatee County’s responsibility. Once it goes over that bridge, we’re not responsible for it anymore,” Cosby responded.

Historic Island house saved

Historic Island cottage saved

Written by Cindy Lane on . Posted in Business, Featured, Real estate | Development.

BRADENTON BEACH – As cottages and bungalows continue to be bulldozed to make room for large-scale vacation rentals, a Welsh couple has preserved a piece of old Anna Maria Island.

The 1927 Sea Grape Cottage, at 601 Gulf Drive S., wasn’t put up on stilts, didn’t have a third floor added to it, and wasn’t torn down like the house across the street.

Historic Island house saved
David and Helen Morris have renovated the 1927 Sea Grape Cottage in Bradenton Beach. – Cindy Lane | Sun

Instead, original interior ceiling beams were saved, and new paint, new flooring and a new metal roof were installed.

The ground-level white cottage with the wraparound porch looks much like it has for the past 95 years, only newer.

Vacation rentals, with bedrooms in the double digits and often called party houses, require people to climb stairs or use elevators and “dwarf the houses” elsewhere in the neighborhood and on the Island in general, said Helen Morris, who restored the cottage with her husband, David Morris. The couple does similar home restorations in Swansea, Wales, in the U.K. for university students to share.

“We feel the Island’s charm is being spoiled,” she said, adding that visitors who come to AMI for that charm are disappointed. “We haven’t spoiled the charm.”

The two-bedroom house was enlarged by connecting the former guest house on the property, which added two more bedrooms. The galley kitchen was refreshed with new countertops, and a dining table that came with the house was saved. Some of the knick-knacks that were in the house when the couple bought it are displayed in original built-in shelves going to the second floor.

Historic Island house saved
Helen and David Morris stand in the dining room with a table that came with the house, under the original wood ceiling beams. – Cindy Lane | Sun

“You can still have a beautiful house by renovating,” she said.

The couple learned about Anna Maria Island from a friend in Orlando, who recommended they come to try the seafood. They liked it, and bought a vacation rental, later deciding they wanted to restore an “old Florida” house with a porch as their next vacation rental.

When it was done, “Someone came by and said, ‘thank you,’ ” David Morris said.

Commissioners question engineering costs

Commissioners question engineering costs

Written by Joe Hendricks on . Posted in Bradenton Beach, Community News.

BRADENTON BEACH – City officials are concerned about higher than expected engineering costs for a state-funded beautification and landscaping project along Gulf Drive North.

To date, Lynn Burnett’s LTA Engineers firm has been paid $48,205 for engineering and design services related to a beautification project to be funded with a $104,246 grant from the Florida Department of Transportation (FDOT).

The beautification project is planned on state-owned rights of way along the SR 789/Gulf Drive corridor, primarily between 23rd Street North and 12th Street North, with engineering and design plans subject to FDOT review and approval.

In April 2021, Burnett presented what were described then as the final design plans and specifications for the project, which have since been revised after FDOT input.

The original plans called for the removal of several Australian pine trees along Gulf Drive North and the planting of green buttonwood and wax myrtle trees, coconut palms, cabbage palms and various shrubs, grasses and other groundcover materials. At the request of FDOT, the tree removals and tree plantings are no longer included in the plans.

Bradenton Beach Commission questions engineering costs
The beautification project plans originally called for the removal of some of the Australian pines located along Gulf Drive North. – Joe Hendricks | Sun

Although Burnett no longer serves as the city’s primary engineer, she remains the engineer of record for this project. On Thursday, Feb. 17, she appeared before the commission to discuss the engineering efforts to date and her latest project-related invoice for $2,910.

Working as a subcontractor, ZNS Engineering Project Landscape Architect Joe Collins is assisting LTA Engineers with the beautification project and participated in Thursday’s meeting by phone.

Throughout Thursday’s discussion, commission members repeatedly expressed concerns about the engineering costs already equating to nearly half of the grant funds – and potentially escalating to as much as $60,000 before the project is completed, with LTA Engineers providing future on-site inspections and oversight.

The grant money can only be used to pay for the actual landscaping and beautification work and cannot be used for engineering and design services. According to City Treasurer Shayne Thompson, the engineering and designs costs are being paid from the city’s general fund as part of the $129,000 originally earmarked in the 2020-21 fiscal year budget for the project, which includes the grant money.

Mayor John Chappie said Burnett originally estimated the engineering and design costs would be about $30,000. He asked why some basic design elements that are supposed to comply with existing FDOT general standards required additional revision and review.

Collins noted the project is subject to FDOT quality control standards that apply to utility lines, setbacks, rights of way, fire hydrants and other existing elements – including “no-plant zones” that prohibit plants and landscaping in areas where they could potentially injure someone involved in an automobile accident.

Burnett said FDOT’s expedited 60-day review process was supposed to be completed in September but has taken six months to get to this point in the process. Collins and Burnett said they’ve never encountered such significant review-related delays when working with FDOT.

Bradenton Beach Commission questions engineering costs
City commissioners questioned Lynn Burnett about the engineering and design costs. – Joe Hendricks | Sun

Commissioner Jake Spooner questioned why deleting the tree removals and the tree plantings from the plans resulted in a significant cost in engineering and design services. Collins and Burnett said removing the trees from the plans required additional engineering, design and review for the shrubs and other lower-level plantings that remain in the plans.

Burnett noted Chappie and others were previously made aware of FDOT’s tree removal and tree planting concerns and she was instructed to continue with the project that now has an extended June 2023 completion deadline.

When expressing his displeasure, Commissioner Ralph Cole noted taxpayer dollars are being spent on the project regardless of who is to blame for the increased costs.

Chappie asked Burnett if there is anything she could do in terms of working with the city to help lower the design and engineering costs. Burnett said she’s already written off $10,000 for work related to the project and she’s not in a position to provide the city with any additional free services.

Chappie noted FDOT Landscape Architect Darryl Richard is the city’s primary contact for the project and he suggested the commission hear from Richard and get FDOT’s perspective before making any project-related decisions. The commission agreed with Chappie’s suggestion.

Waste Pro, rentals not complying with trash pickup rules

Waste Pro, rentals not complying with trash pickup rules

Written by Joe Hendricks on . Posted in Bradenton Beach, Community News.

BRADENTON BEACH – City officials are unhappy about the lack of compliance with the city’s side yard trash pickup requirements for vacation rentals.

Bradenton Beach Mayor John Chappie has repeatedly voiced his displeasure about the accumulation of trash containers alongside city streets, and on Thursday, Jan. 20, the city commission and city staff discussed these issues at length.

Building Official Steve Gilbert said the city’s solid waste ordinance and Transient Public Lodging Establishment (TPLE) ordinance are not consistent with one another regarding side yard pickup requirements. He suggested the city attorney review the two ordinances, and for code enforcement purposes, he suggested revising the solid waste ordinance.

The red and white WP stickers placed on these Waste Pro containers signify side yard container retrieval and return requirements. – Joe Hendricks | Sun

The city’s TPLE ordinance requires vacation rental operators to request and obtain side yard pickup service for their trash. Anyone seeking an exemption must submit a written request to the city clerk for city commission approval. The TPLE ordinance also requires the location of vacation rental trash containers to be posted inside the rental unit.

The city’s solid waste ordinance states trash containers must be placed for collection by 6 a.m. on the scheduled pickup day and must be removed by 8 p.m. that night. That ordinance also says trash containers are to be placed in the curbside right of way unless otherwise approved by the Public Works director. The solid waste ordinance does not specifically address vacation rentals or transient public lodging establishments.

City Attorney Ricinda Perry said the city’s franchise agreement with Waste Pro states that Waste Pro determines where trash containers are to be placed for pickup.

Chappie said he and Public Works Director Tom Woodard have had numerous conversations with Waste Pro and the issues continue. Chappie said the blame is shared by Waste Pro, vacation rental owners and managers, vacation rental cleaning staffs and vacation rental guests.

Waste Pro containers lined Second Street North while awaiting pickup on Jan. 20. – Joe Hendricks | Sun

Chappie said vacation rental guests, when checking out on Friday or Saturday, often bring the trash containers out to the road as a courtesy and the cleaning crews often do the same. This results in trash containers sitting alongside the street until they’re picked up on Monday.

Chappie said this doesn’t relieve Waste Pro of its responsibility to return the empty containers to the side of the rental home. He also said it’s up to vacation rental owners and managers to figure out how to comply with the city requirements. Chappie said repeated compliance failures should result in the property owner losing their city-issued TPLE license.

Perry said the city shares some responsibility because the franchise agreement requires property owners to exclusively use Waste Pro.

Potential solutions

Gilbert noted the city of Anna Maria’s franchise agreement with Waste Management requires all non-homesteaded properties to use side yard pickup service, rather than placing that burden only on vacation rentals. That requirement is supported by Anna Maria’s solid waste ordinance.

Anna Maria’s franchise agreement states side yard pick up locations must be approved by Waste Management and the city must annually provide an updated list of non-homesteaded residential properties to be serviced with containers designated for side yard pick up by a city-approved sticker.

Perry said the city’s current franchise agreement with Waste Pro expires in 2025 and may need to be revised before then. She said continued non-compliance with the side yard pickup requirements could be considered a breach of that agreement.

Woodard said Waste Pro has been told multiple times that side yard trash containers improperly placed alongside the road must still be returned to the side of the rental home or rental unit. He also said it was Waste Pro’s idea to place the red and white WP stickers on containers designated for side yard pickup.

Gilbert said Waste Pro drivers often can’t see the stickers when the containers are sitting alongside a rental home awaiting pickup. He suggested Waste Pro provide its drivers with updated logs that identify which properties require side yard pickup, or have stickers placed directly on the vacation rental homes in a more visible location. Commissioner Jake Spooner suggested loading that information into a handheld GPS device to be used by the Waste Pro drivers.

Gilbert said he recently followed a Waste Pro truck down Avenue C and watched vacation rental trash containers being picked up at the end of the driveway and left there rather than being returned to the side of the house.

Woodard said one solution would be to simply require side yard pickup for all residential properties, which currently costs approximately $15 more per month. Chappie opposed side yard pickup for all residential properties or non-homesteaded properties. Commissioner Jan Vosburgh agreed and said she doesn’t want to subject city residents to those additional costs.

Spooner suggested Waste Pro also be asked to complete its trash collection along Gulf Drive before 8:30 a.m. to help alleviate the traffic congestion that occurs when that trash is collected later in the day.

Cole recommended that Perry, in her capacity as city attorney, contact Waste Pro and reiterate the city’s concerns. Perry said she would, and that she, Gilbert and Woodard would work together with Waste Pro on these issues.

Perry said the main points gathered from the discussion were the need to properly identify what side door or side yard pickup is and what it entails, what identification methods are needed and what can be done about the timing of trash collections along Gulf Drive. She also acknowledged the commission’s desire that Waste Pro respond more quickly to repair or replace condominium and commercial dumpsters that go unemptied because the roller wheels are broken.

Annie Silver Community Center elects officers

Annie Silver Community Center elects officers

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

BRADENTON BEACH – The Annie Silver Community Center has new officers, elected Jan. 10 after many meetings were suspended due to COVID-19.

The board has been without a president since former President Linda Yarger announced she was resigning as of Sept. 30. The office of vice president was also open, but electing new officers was delayed by a lack of candidates and low attendance at meetings.

On Jan. 10, board members unanimously elected Jim Hassett as president, Donna Kirkpatrick as vice president, Judy Pruitt as secretary and Dianne Coates as treasurer.

The board also discussed its first dinner of 2022, set for Wednesday, Jan. 26 from 5-7 p.m. Big Dogg Bar B Que will be serving up meals for only $10 to eat at the center or take home. The center will be hosting dinners at least once a month, and anyone in the community is invited to come and have a great meal and mingle with neighbors. 

Bingo is also back at Annie Silver, with games every Thursday at 6 p.m. Cake, coffee, soda and water will be available. Everyone is invited; membership is not required.

Shamrock Shiver raises big bucks

Shamrock Shiver raises funds for charities

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

BRADENTON BEACH – The results are in for this year’s 14th Annual Shamrock Shiver Charity Plunge on New Year’s Day.

About 100 people took the plunge, with 60 of those signed up before the event, which raised $56,180 between pledges, live auction, silent auction, raffles and a 50/50 drawing at Clancy’s. This brings the total raised to date to $362,284. 

Items donated included offshore fishing trips, a backwater fishing trip, Kenny Chesney tickets, several golf packages, a Hall of Famer Johnny Bench authentic autographed Louisville Slugger bat, a Whitey Ford authentic autographed New York Yankees jersey, tickets to the Lightning game, tickets to the Bucs week 18 game, including a “registered” Super Bowl football with a stand from the Bradford Exchange, a vacation package on Anna Maria Island, granite from Planet Stone and dinners for two from various local restaurants.

All proceeds including sponsorship benefits go to The Blessing Bags Project, F.E.L.T. (Feeding Empty Little Tummies), Healthy Teens Collation and N.I.M. (Nutrition Initiative of Manatee), all 501(c)(3) non-profit organizations dedicated to helping disadvantaged children in Manatee County.

Bradenton Beach: The Year in Review

Bradenton Beach: The Year in Review

Written by Joe Hendricks on . Posted in Bradenton Beach, Community News, Featured, Special Sections, Year in Review.

BRADENTON BEACH – The city of Bradenton Beach embarked on some important public projects in 2021 and also welcomed a familiar face as the city’s new police chief.

January

In January, the mayor and city commission learned of the Florida Department of Transportation’s plans to begin construction in 2026 on the new fixed-span bridge that would provide 65 feet of vertical clearance as the replacement for the existing Cortez Bridge drawbridge.

February

Phase II of Manatee County’s drainage and parking lot improvements commenced at Coquina Beach.

The city commission extended a micromobility moratorium enacted in late 2020 that temporarily prohibits any new businesses from renting scoot coupes, motor scooters and other motorized micromobility devices. The moratorium, extended again later in the year, does not pertain to the actual operation of those vehicles on public streets.

March

Former county commissioners Joe McClash and Jane von Hahmann asked the city to join their federal lawsuit that opposes the construction of a fixed-span bridge to replace the Cortez Bridge drawbridge constructed in 1956. The commission tentatively agreed to contribute up to $5,000 toward the legal efforts, but in August, the commission voted 3-2 in opposition to providing any city funds or joining the lawsuit as an additional named party.

The city commission named Lt. John Cosby to serve as the eventual successor to Police Chief Sam Speciale leading up to Speciale’s planned retirement in October.

April

Building Official Steve Gilbert and City Planner Luis Serna began guiding the Planning and Zoning Board members through an extensive review of the Future Land Use Map and zoning map inconsistencies that exist throughout the city. The city commission has not yet acted on the board recommendations and the map revision process is expected to continue in 2022.

A personal watercraft and a boat collided on the Intracoastal Waterway near Longboat Pass. Tour boat captain Mike Draayom helped rescue the personal watercraft driver and passenger from the water. The accident resulted in two people being taken to the hospital.

The city commission authorized a request for proposals seeking a third-party review of the Master Drainage Study and stormwater and drainage systems designed by longtime City Engineer Lynn Burnett. The commission ultimately selected Utility Consultants of Florida and the subcontracted Colliers Engineering firm to take over the stormwater-related engineering and design services, including those associated with a $2.6 million, state-funded flood control project for the north end of the city. In November, the state granted the city additional time to design, permit and construct the drainage improvements which now have a June 2024 completion deadline.

May

The commission selected Duncan Seawall, Dock & Boat Lift to expand the floating dock, install finger piers perpendicular to the expanded dock and replace the public dinghy dock near the foot of the Bridge Street Pier boardwalk.

The CRA members agreed to increase the CRA’s holiday decorating budget from $15,000 to $40,000.

The Anna Maria Island Moose Lodge’s renovated kitchen reopened.

June

The CRA members discussed the potential CRA-funded trimming or removal of some privately-owned Australian pine trees located near the Gulf Drive/Cortez Road intersection. Those efforts were later abandoned.

Bradenton Beach: The Year in Review
The city is still waiting for FPL to remove the concrete utility poles along Gulf Drive South. – Joe Hendricks | Sun

City Attorney Ricinda Perry informed the commission that the state-funded Gulf Drive South utility line undergrounding project would cost much more than expected due to the increased pole and line removal costs imposed by Florida Power & Light. Perry said FPL’s initial non-binding cost estimates came in between $360,000 and $390,000, but in mid-May, she received a binding cost estimate for $1,187,029. Perry was able to reduce some of those additional costs and secure the use of additional county funds previously budged for another unrelated project. The new lines have been undergrounded and have been connected to the impacted residential structures, but the city is still waiting for FPL to remove dozens of concrete utility poles along Gulf Drive South.

The city commission extended the expanded outdoor dining allowances enacted in 2020 as part of the city’s COVID-19 pandemic response. The commission also stated live music would be allowed to continue in the expanded outdoor seating areas.

The Manatee County Commission agreed to provide up to $850,000 in matching county funds for the dock expansion and dinghy dock replacement project.

Mural artist Chad “Cheeta” Ruis painted a sea life-themed mural on the exterior walls of the AMI Moose Lodge.

July

Accompanied by Tampa Bay Lightning coach Jon Cooper, the Stanley Cup visited the Bradenton Beach Police Department as part of Cooper’s multi-stop victory lap around Anna Maria Island.

August

Former Drift In employee and well-known Island personality David Marshall was struck by a car and seriously injured on Aug. 24 and he passed away on Sept. 5.

September

The CRA contracted C Squared to install four new stamped asphalt crosswalks across Bridge Street. The new crosswalks were engineered by Colliers Engineering. The new crosswalks replaced the failing brick paver crosswalks installed in late 2020 by Classic Brick Construction and engineered by LTA Engineers.

Bradenton Beach: The Year in Review
Stamped asphalt crosswalks replaced the brick paver crosswalks installed in 2020. – Joe Hendricks | Sun

October

CRA members approved a $595,905 dock expansion project contract with Duncan Seawall, Dock & Boat Lift. The dock expansion project will provide short-term public docking for approximately two dozen vessels when the project is completed in 2022 using components pre-manufactured by Golden Marine Systems.

John Cosby was sworn in as the city’s new police chief.

Bradenton Beach: The Year in Review
John Cosby was sworn in as the city’s new police chief by City Clerk Terri Sanclemente. – Joe Hendricks | Sun

City officials expressed concerns about the permeable brick paver sidewalk being installed along Gulf Drive North by the Florida Department of Transportation (FDOT). The concerns included safety and tripping hazards and the city’s ongoing liability and maintenance responsibilities.

The CRA extended the Old Town Tram pilot program for an additional year. The CRA members’ desire for the tram service to be primarily funded by advertising revenues remains a work in progress. In November, advertising revenues accounted for $4,775 (48%) of the CRA’s $9,975 monthly tram operation costs.

Bradenton Beach: The Year in Review
The Old Town Tram pilot program was extended for another year. – Joe Hendricks | Sun

November

Incumbent Mayor John Chappie defeated first-time challenger David Galuszka in the mayor’s race. Running unopposed, incumbent commissioners Jake Spooner and Jan Vosburgh claimed additional two-year terms in office. City voters maintained the existing term limits, which means Chappie and Spooner will term limit out of office in 2023.

Bradenton Beach: The Year in Review
John Chappie won a third consecutive term as the Bradenton Beach mayor. – Joe Hendricks | Sun

Chief Cosby promoted Det. Sgt. Lenard Diaz to the rank of lieutenant, making him the police department’s second in command.

A Christmas tree lighting ceremony took place at the Bradenton Beach Post Office as part of the CRA and the Bridge Street merchants’ enhanced holiday decorating efforts.

December

The annual Christmas on Bridge Street celebration and the Bradenton Beach Holiday Lighted Boat Parade resumed after being canceled in 2020.

Bradenton Beach: The Year in Review
The CRA and the Bridge Street merchants went all-out with their holiday decorations. – Joe Hendricks | Sun

The commission authorized a $5,000 expenditure as part of the exploratory efforts regarding the desired undergrounding of utility lines at the north end of the city.

Shamrock Shiver is a New Year’s tradition

Shamrock Shiver a New Year’s tradition

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

BRADENTON BEACH – A large crowd gathered between Seventh Street and 10th Street on Jan. 1 for what’s become a New Year’s Day tradition, The Shamrock Shiver Charity Plunge.

Shamrock Shiver is a New Year’s tradition
Ruth Ann and Barry Hopkins not only took the plunge, but were also winners of the best costume contest at the 2022 Shamrock Shiver Charity Plunge. – Jason Schaffer | Sun

Participants dressed in their most festive attire and jumped into the Gulf of Mexico for a great cause. The water was around 70 degrees, not nearly as cold as some years, to the delight of participants.

The event, sponsored by Clancy’s Irish Pub and Grill, is in its 14th year and has raised more than $306,000 to date. This year’s goal was $40,000, and organizers think that goal is attainable. 

“Customers could fill out a paper and make a donation through Clancy’s, or just come out here and make a donation,” said Danny Moore, a Clancy’s employee who used his megaphone to move the crowd from land to sea at the stroke of noon. “Employees, loyal customers and anybody else in the community who wanted to come out were more than welcome.” 

Shamrock Shiver is a New Year’s tradition
Paul Devine shows off his love for sea turtles at the 2022 Shamrock Shiver Charity Plunge. – Jason Schaffer | Sun

The proceeds from the Shamrock Shiver will benefit The Blessing Bags Project, Feeding Empty Little Tummies, Healthy Teens Coalition of Manatee County Inc. and Nutrition Initiative. All of the organizations are 501(c)(3) nonprofits. 

“We do this every year, we love it,” said Ruth Ann Hopkins, dressed as the Statue of Liberty, who along with her husband, Barry, dressed as Uncle Sam, were winners of best costume.

A post-plunge party took place at Clancy’s on Cortez Road following the festivities on the beach. The Dr. Dave Band performed and more money was raised through raffle tickets, a silent auction and live auction.

Events calendar

Written by SUN contributor on . Posted in Uncategorized.

Tuesday, Dec. 14

Farmer’s market, City Pier Park, 103 N. Bay Blvd., Anna Maria, 8:30 a.m. to 2 p.m.

RoserRobics, Roser Church, 512 Pine Ave., Anna Maria, 9:30 a.m., no cost but donations welcome.

Family story time, Island Branch Library, 5701 Marina Drive, Holmes Beach, 10 a.m. Reserve online

Mahjong, Island Branch Library, 5701 Marina Drive, Holmes Beach, 11:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. Register online

One-on-one tech help, Island Branch Library, 5701 Marina Drive, Holmes Beach, 2 p.m. to 3:30 p.m. Reserve online 

Christmas in the Garden, Longboat Island Chapel, 6200 Gulf of Mexico Drive, Longboat Key, 5-9 p.m.

Wednesday, Dec. 15

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

Lawton Chiles Christmas for Kids Party, Sandbar Restaurant, 100 Spring St., Anna Maria, 11 a.m. to 2 p.m.

Ukulele Instruction for Beginners, Island Branch Library, 5701 Marina Drive, Holmes Beach, 1 p.m. Register online at manateelibrary.libcal.com/event/8315413

AMI Chamber Business Card Exchange, Mainsail Beach Inn, 101 66th St., Bradenton Beach, 5-7 p.m., $5 for members or $10 for non-members. Reserve online 

Christmas in the Garden, Longboat Island Chapel, 6200 Gulf of Mexico Drive, Longboat Key, 5-9 p.m.

CrossPointe Fellowship Christmas Concert, 8605 Gulf Drive, Holmes Beach, 7 p.m.

Thursday, Dec. 16

RoserRobics, Roser Church, 512 Pine Ave., Anna Maria, 9:30 a.m., no cost but donations welcome.

Island Library Book Club, “The Midnight Library,” Island Branch Library, 5701 Marina Drive, Holmes Beach, 10:15 a.m. Reserve online 

Sunshine Stitchers knit and crochet, Island Branch Library, 5701 Marina Drive, Holmes Beach, 2-4 p.m. Register online

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

AMI Chamber business card exchange, Mainsail Beach Inn, 101 66th St., Holmes Beach, 5 p.m., $5 for members or $10 for prospective members. Reserve online

Shutter Stroll, Robinson Preserve, 840 Ninth Ave. N.W., Bradenton, 5:15 p.m. Register online

Christmas in the Garden, Longboat Island Chapel, 6200 Gulf of Mexico Drive, Longboat Key, 5-9 p.m.

Friday, Dec. 17

Forty Carrots, Island Branch Library, 5701 Marina Drive, Holmes Beach, 10-11 a.m. Register online

Mahjong Club, Island Branch Library, 5701 Marina Drive, Holmes Beach, 11:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. Register online 

Christmas in the Garden, Longboat Island Chapel, 6200 Gulf of Mexico Drive, Longboat Key, 5-9 p.m.

Saturday, Dec. 18

Robinson Runners, Robinson Preserve, 1704 99th St. N.W., Bradenton, 8 a.m.

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

Master Gardener Tour, Perico Preserve, 11700 Manatee Ave. W., Bradenton, 9 a.m. Reserve online 

Families Flock Together: Ornament Making, Robinson Preserve, screened pavilion, 840 Ninth Ave. N.W., Bradenton, 10 a.m., $5. Reserve online 

Meditation, Island Branch Library, 5701 Marina Drive, Holmes Beach, 11 a.m. Reserve online 

Christmas in the Garden, Longboat Island Chapel, 6200 Gulf of Mexico Drive, Longboat Key, 5-9 p.m.

Seeing Stars, Robinson Preserve, 840 Ninth Ave. N.W., Bradenton, 6:30 p.m. Reserve online 

Sunday, Dec. 19

Farm stand, Holmes Beach City Hall, 5801 Marina Drive, Holmes Beach, 8-10 a.m.

Roser Memorial Community Church Christmas Cantata, 512 Pine Ave., Anna Maria, 8:30 a.m. and 10 a.m.

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

Rise and Shine Power Flow Yoga, Robinson Preserve Mosaic Nest, 840 Ninth Ave. N.W., Bradenton 10:30-11:45 a.m., $10 fee payable online. Bring your own yoga mat. Register online or call 941-742-5923 ext. 6042 for more information.

Christmas in the Garden, Longboat Island Chapel, 6200 Gulf of Mexico Drive, Longboat Key, 5-9 p.m.

Monday, Dec. 20

Episcopal Church of the Annunciation Hanging of the Greens, 4408 Gulf Drive, Holmes Beach, 9 a.m.

Christmas in the Garden, Longboat Island Chapel, 6200 Gulf of Mexico Drive, Longboat Key, 5-9 p.m. Music begins at 6 p.m.

Tuesday, Dec. 21

Winter Solstice Sunrise Paddle, Robinson Preserve, north entrance, 1704 99th St. N.W., Bradenton, 6 a.m. Reserve online 

Farmer’s market, City Pier Park, 103 N. Bay Blvd., Anna Maria, 8:30 a.m. to 2 p.m.

RoserRobics, Roser Church, 512 Pine Ave., Anna Maria, 9:30 a.m., no cost but donations are welcome.

Santa visits story time, Island Branch Library, 5701 Marina Drive, Holmes Beach, 9 a.m.

Family story time, Island Branch Library, 5701 Marina Drive, Holmes Beach, 10 a.m. Register online 

Mahjong Club, Island Branch Library, 5701 Marina Drive, Holmes Beach, 11:30 a.m. Register online 

Tech Help, Island Branch Library, 5701 Marina Drive, Holmes Beach, 2-2:30 p.m. Register online 

Christmas in the Garden, Longboat Island Chapel, 6200 Gulf of Mexico Drive, Longboat Key, 5-9 p.m.

Wednesday, Dec. 22

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

Ukulele Instruction for Beginners, Island Branch Library, 5701 Marina Drive, Holmes Beach, 1 p.m. Register online 

Christmas in the Garden, Longboat Island Chapel, 6200 Gulf of Mexico Drive, Longboat Key, 5-9 p.m.

Thursday, Dec. 23

RoserRobics, Roser Church, 512 Pine Ave., Anna Maria, 9:30 a.m., no cost but donations welcome.

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

Christmas in the Garden, Longboat Island Chapel, 6200 Gulf of Mexico Drive, Longboat Key, 5-9 p.m.

Friday, Dec. 24

Christmas Eve

Saturday, Dec. 25

Merry Christmas!

Sunday, Dec. 26

Farm stand, Holmes Beach City Hall, 5801 Marina Drive, Holmes Beach, 8-10 a.m.

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

Rise and Shine Power Flow Yoga, Robinson Preserve Mosaic Nest, 840 Ninth Ave. N.W., Bradenton 10:30-11:45 a.m., $10 fee payable online. Bring your own yoga mat. Register online or call 941-742-5923 ext. 6042 for more information.

Christmas in the Garden, Longboat Island Chapel, 6200 Gulf of Mexico Drive, Longboat Key, 5-9 p.m.

Monday, Dec. 27

Christmas in the Garden, Longboat Island Chapel, 6200 Gulf of Mexico Drive, Longboat Key, 5-9 p.m. Music begins at 6 p.m.

Tuesday, Dec. 28

Farmer’s market, City Pier Park, 103 N. Bay Blvd., Anna Maria, 8:30 a.m. to 2:30 p.m.

RoserRobics, Roser Church, 512 Pine Ave., Anna Maria, 9:30 a.m., no cost but donations are welcome.

Wonder Walk, Robinson Preserve, 840 Ninth Ave. N.W., Bradenton, 10 a.m. Reserve to coral.bass@mymanatee.org.

Family story time, Island Branch Library, 5701 Marina Drive, Holmes Beach, 10 a.m. Register online

Tech Help, Island Branch Library, 5701 Marina Drive, Holmes Beach, 2-2:30 p.m. Register online 

Christmas in the Garden, Longboat Island Chapel, 6200 Gulf of Mexico Drive, Longboat Key, 5-9 p.m.

Wednesday, Dec. 29

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

Tortoise Talk, Robinson Preserve Valentine House, 1704 99th St. N.W., Bradenton, 10 a.m.

Ukulele Instruction for Beginners, Island Branch Library, 5701 Marina Drive, Holmes Beach, 1 p.m. Register online

Christmas in the Garden, Longboat Island Chapel, 6200 Gulf of Mexico Drive, Longboat Key, 5-9 p.m.

Thursday, Dec. 30

Seashell Shore Walk, Coquina Beach, 2650 Gulf Drive S., Bradenton Beach, 9 a.m.

RoserRobics, Roser Church, 512 Pine Ave., Anna Maria, 9:30 a.m., no cost but donations welcome.

Seaside Quilters, Island Branch Library, 5701 Marina Drive, Holmes Beach, 10 a.m. Register online

Sunshine Stitchers knit and crochet, Island Branch Library, 5701 Marina Drive, Holmes Beach, 2 p.m. Register online

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

Christmas in the Garden, Longboat Island Chapel, 6200 Gulf of Mexico Drive, Longboat Key, 5-9 p.m.

Friday, Dec. 31

New Year’s Eve

Christmas in the Garden, Longboat Island Chapel, 6200 Gulf of Mexico Drive, Longboat Key, 5-9 p.m.

Saturday, Jan. 1

Happy New Year!

Robinson Runners, Robinson Preserve, 1704 99th St. N.W., Bradenton, 8 a.m.

Manatee Audubon Society Birding Tour, Perico Preserve, 11700 Manatee Ave. W., Bradenton, 8:30 a.m.

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

Shamrock Shiver sponsored by Clancy’s Irish Pub, Cortez Beach between Fourth St. South and 12th St. South, Bradenton Beach, noon. All proceeds benefit The Blessing Bags Project, Feeding Empty Little Tummies, Healthy Teens Coalition of Manatee County and Parenting Matters Charities.

Sunshine Stitchers knit and crochet, Island Branch Library, 5701 Marina Drive, Holmes Beach, 2 p.m. Reserve online 

Christmas in the Garden, Longboat Island Chapel, 6200 Gulf of Mexico Drive, Longboat Key, 5-9 p.m.

Sunday, Jan. 2

Farm stand, Holmes Beach City Hall, 5801 Marina Drive, Holmes Beach, 8-10 a.m.

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

Rise and Shine Power Flow Yoga, Robinson Preserve Mosaic Nest, 840 Ninth Ave. N.W., Bradenton 10:30-11:45 a.m., $10 fee payable online. Bring your own yoga mat. Register online or call 941-742-5923 ext. 6042 for more information.

Tuesday, Jan. 4

Farmer’s market, City Pier Park, 103 N. Bay Blvd., Anna Maria, 8:30 a.m. to 2 p.m.

RoserRobics, Roser Church, 512 Pine Ave., Anna Maria, 9:30 a.m., no cost but donations welcome.

Family story time, Island Branch Library, 5701 Marina Drive, Holmes Beach, 10 a.m. Reserve online

Mahjong, Island Branch Library, 5701 Marina Drive, Holmes Beach, 11:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. Register online

One-on-one tech help, Island Branch Library, 5701 Marina Drive, Holmes Beach, 2-2:30 p.m. Reserve online 

Annie Silver remains without a president

Annie Silver Center closer to electing permanent board

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

BRADENTON BEACH – The Annie Silver Community Center board met on Dec. 6 to address several issues, including replacing retiring president Linda Yarger, whose last official day was Sept. 30. 

Jim Hassett has been unofficially filling the role as president of the board since Yarger’s departure, and because of an insufficient turnout at the Nov. 15 meeting, there were not enough members present to make nominations for a new president and vice president.

This was not an issue at the December meeting, as not only all current board members were in attendance, but former members and members of the community showed up to voice their concerns for the future of the community center.

“This is the first time I’ve really stepped in. I’m a community member and I’m concerned after reading the article last week about Annie Silver surviving,” said Bob Wallace, longtime Bradenton Beach resident. “I’d like it to be here always for everyone.”

Wallace wasn’t the only member of the community who came out to show support for the center and its future. Now that the board is working to get new members elected, the public attention is bringing many local residents inside to show support for this decades-old Island institution.

“I just would like to get involved. I saw bingo here after seeing the article in the paper and I want to just help out,” said Maggie VanWormer, a resident of Bradenton Beach and a first-grade teacher at Anna Maria Elementary School.

Hassett was nominated to fill the vacant president position and Donna Kirkpatrick was nominated to fill the vice-president role that would be left vacant by Hassett if elected president. With the nominations solidified, the election will take place at the Jan. 10, 2022 meeting.

Christmas has come to Bridge Street

Christmas has come to Bridge Street

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

BRADENTON BEACH – Take a walk down Bridge Street in Bradenton Beach and you’ll find it difficult not to be in the holiday spirit.

On Saturday, Nov. 20, the city lit the most Christmas lights ever seen on the Island. Street lights, palm trees, business fronts and even the famous clock tower are draped in lights and garland. The centerpiece of this amazing display is a 40-foot tree adorned with thousands of lights and more than 600 hand-placed ornaments.

Christmas has come to Bridge Street
A 40-foot-tall Christmas tree graces the Bradenton Beach Post Office parking lot on Bridge Street. – Jason Schaffer | Sun

The tree lighting ceremony was an all-day event that began with the early afternoon arrival of Santa and Mrs. Claus, who arrived by golf cart.

“The reindeer wanted to be here, but it just hasn’t cooled off quite enough for their liking, so we let them stay at the North Pole. They always look forward to coming to Anna Maria Island on Christmas Eve because I treat them with grouper bites before we head over to Miami,” said Santa.

Christmas has come to Bridge Street
Santa and Mrs. Claus arrive in Bradenton Beach. – Jason Schaffer | Sun

As the sun set on a beautiful Island afternoon, a crowd of a few hundred people gathered while the Magic of Manatee Sweet Adelines sang traditional carols in front of the tree. At 6 p.m., the crowd chanted a 10-second countdown for Mayor John Chappie, who lit the tree alongside City Attorney Ricinda Perry and Commissioner Ralph Cole. The evening’s festivities continued with an outdoor showing of “A Christmas Story” on an inflatable movie screen next to the tree. 

Christmas has come to Bridge Street
Families enjoy an outdoor showing of ‘A Christmas Story’ in the post office parking lot next to the tree on Bridge Street. – Jason Schaffer | Sun

“This is the culmination of 30 years of hard work in the commercial area of Bradenton Beach. Trimmers Holiday Decor, the company that put up all the lights and decorations, did an amazing job, always here on the spot working to get this done, they’re amazing,” said Mayor Chappie. 

This huge holiday undertaking came at a cost of more than $40,000 and was made possible by the Community Redevelopment Agency, the City of Bradenton Beach, and local merchants. The lights come on at sunset and will be in place through the end of December.