The Islander Newspaper E-Edition: Wednesday, June 25, 2025

AMITW is in the race!

Tagged for Tour de Turtles

A crowd of Anna Maria Island Turtle Watch supporters gathers early June 23 at Coquina Beach for the release of a loggerhead sea turtle, the island’s entry in the Sea Turtle Conservancy’s Tour de Turtles. The sea turtle — nicknamed “Winnie” — was tagged with a transmitter after it nested overnight. Beginning Aug. 1, STC will track the turtle and others in the marathon for research. Inset: The loggerhead makes its way to the water. For more pics and video, including the sea turtle’s first gulp of air on its return to the Gulf of Mexico waters, go to islander.org. Islander Photos: Jacob Merrifield

Island ready for 4th of July crowds

By Robert Anderson Islander Reporter

As beachgoers gear up for a sunfilled Fourth of July, law enforcement and emergency responders on Anna Maria Island are preparing for a demanding long weekend.

Law enforcement agencies will join forces to manage crowds, traffic and beach activity across the island during the holiday weekend that begins Friday, July 4, with the Anna Maria Island Privateers’ Independence Day Parade. The parade will begin at 10 a.m. at Coquina Beach in Bradenton Beach and head north to Bayfront Park in Anna Maria.

“We’re expecting high traffic and large crowds,” said Bradenton Beach Police Chief John Cosby. “Everyone’s welcome but we ask for patience — especially when it comes to parking.”

Cosby said June 18 that his department will coordinate with the Manatee County Sheriff’s Office, which polices Anna Maria, and the Holmes Beach Police Department to ensure full cover-

If it flies or goes boom, it’s illegal.

’

age.

To reinforce staffing levels, Cosby asked city commissioners to declare a local state of emergency during a June 5 meeting, which they did.

“I have canceled all days off,” Cosby said of the police department staff. “So every member of the department is working those three days, including myself, and will be out there.”

He said the MCSO will back up the BBPD in the island’s southernmost city, which has two public beaches — Coquina and Cortez.

Cosby encouraged people to plan for crowds and congestion.

“Be patient. Plan ahead. It’s going to be busy,” he said. “And don’t park illegally.”

The chief also reminded people that

4th parade planned

The Anna Maria Island Privateers will stage the annual Independence Day Parade Friday, July 4.

The parade will begin at 10 a.m. in Bradenton Beach and motor nearly the full length of the island to Bayfront Park in Anna Maria.

There will be no fireworks shows on AMI for the holiday but there are pyrotechnics offered on the mainland July 3 and July 4.

For more, go to page 9.

fireworks are not permitted.

“If it flies or goes boom, it’s illegal,” Cosby said.

Environmental concerns, particularly the protection of nesting wildlife, are part of the reason behind the ban.

“We have black skimmers,” Cosby said. “They nest here, they are a protected species and they are the type of bird that comes back to the same place to nest every year. So no loud noises

By Ryan Paice Islander Reporter

The

Manatee County Tourist Development Council members unanimously voted June 16 to recommend county commissioners fund up to $2 million in tourist development tax funds to rebuild the Anna Maria City Pier.

The pier has been closed since last fall, when hurricanes Helene and Milton destroyed the walkway to the T-end.

The remainder of the walkway will be demolished so that it can be rebuilt to superior specifications — the same used for the T-end, which remains structurally sound.

While Bradenton-based Quality Marine Construction is slated to begin demo work on the walkway before the end of June, nothing has been set in stone for its reconstruction.

Anna Maria Mayor Mark Short attended the June 16 TDC meeting to request $3.1 million from the county toward the $6,862,161-$8,955,000 estimated cost of a new pier walkway.

Short said the municipality already spent $223,000 on engineering and agreed to a $239,500 contract for the walkway demolition.

He said he hopes to rebuild the pier by fall 2026, but funding for the rebuild remains uncertain.

“It’s a puzzle that we don’t yet have the pieces to put together,” Short said.

So far, the city is in the process of requesting funds from several entities, including the U.S. Federal Emergency Management Agency, the state and county.

Short said the number “getting kicked around” with FEMA was $4 million in reimbursement funding for the walkway rebuild but that was not yet locked in.

Additionally, he said reimbursement funding created a cash flow challenge for the project, since it would not be received until after completion.

From the state, the city requested $2.5 million in appropriations funding.

State legislators approved a $1.25 million appropriation — half the requested amount — toward the rebuild for inclusion in the $115.1 billion budget

Maria Island Since 1992

Cosby Tokajer

— BBPD Chief John Cosby about fireworks for the 4th.

first piece of the funding puzzle is on deck.

Municipal matters

Catching up, looking forward

Anna Maria Mayor Mark Short responded to The Islander June 21 with info on a meeting with the Manatee County Tourist Development Council to discuss funding for the renovation of the city pier.

“They approved $2M, which will now go to the county commissioners for approval,” he wrote.

Mote mum about future on AM pier

By Ryan Paice Islander Reporter

The Anna Maria City Pier might appear a little different by the time it reopens.

It’s unclear if Mote Marine Laboratory’s Marine Science Education and Outreach Center on the T-end will be involved in the changes.

Mote communications coordinator Kathryn Gentile did not respond to a June 18 email from The Islander

regarding the center’s future on the pier, which has been closed since Hurricane Milton washed out a large stretch of walkway, leaving the T-end disconnected from land and inaccessible.

Mayor Mark Short has said he hopes to reopen the pier by fall 2026.

By the time the pier reopens, the GSM Partner’s City Pier Grill & Bait Shop also may no longer be a tenant on the T-end.

The TDC manages funding from the resort tax levied on accommodations of six months or less, but the county board of commissioners has final say on the budget.

Short added that on June 18 we met with county officials and discussed the “pier, hurricane lessons learned and prep for this year, parking challenges and a few other items.”

That meeting can be viewed on the county commission’s YouTube channel.

Holmes Beach Mayor Judy Titsworth has been back and forth to Illinois the past few weeks with husband Steve for family matters and the funeral of Steve’s father.

She emailed The Islander June 21 saying the city awaits a response from the organization selling the Gloria Dei Lutheran Church property.

On her calendar, she said there are several staff attending a flood plain manager conference in Orlando.

She said, “We will be discussing stormwater fees at our next meeting” and the city lobbyist will attend the next commission meeting to discuss legislative bills.

Titsworth said a clean water committee meeting was great and they are planning for some great speakers after a summer break.

— Bonner

Joy

Election 2025

AMI qualifying ahead

Qualifying to run for elected offices on Anna Maria Island opens in August.

Qualifying in Anna Maria will be noon Aug. 18-noon Aug. 29.

Qualifying in Holmes Beach and Bradenton Beach will be noon Aug. 25-noon Aug. 29.

The offices up for election in Anna Maria include three commission seats for two-year terms.

In Bradenton Beach, there will be three commission seats — two for two-year terms and one one-year term — and the mayoral post up for election.

Holmes Beach’s election will include three twoterm commission seats.

Election Day is Tuesday, Nov. 4.

For more information, go to votemanatee.gov or call the Manatee County Supervisor of Elections Office at 941-741-3823.

Email announcements to lisa@islander.org.

— Lisa neff

Bradenton attorney seeks

Florida House seat

Attorney Melton Little has announced his candidacy in 2026 for the House District 71 seat held by Will Robinson Jr., who cannot run again due to term limits.

Brian Seymour of GSM Partners told city commissioners June 12 that the company might not seek an extension when its lease expires Dec. 31.

Additionally, Manatee County might build a new landing off the pier to accommodate the Gulf Islands Ferry Service’s new, larger vessel.

Mote locked into a 10-year lease for the center in September 2021 but there has been little indication of how much damage the T-end building and interior equipment sustained.

The Islander’s email to Gentile included questions regarding damages to the center, plans for improvements or changes, as well as what the situation for its employees while it remains closed.

There was no response to the email by The Islander’s June 23 press deadline.

In his candidacy announcement, Little is described as “a conservative man of faith, who keeps a concealed carry permit, believes strongly in individual rights, fiscal responsibility, less government and the power of local government.”

Little, a Republican, grew up in Bradenton, graduating from Bayshore High School in 1979. He earned a bachelor’s degree from Samford University, a law degree from Cumberland Law School and a master’s of law degree from Hofstra. He returned to Bradenton to practice law, as well

Short

titsworth

Little

Manatee County researching boat launch fees at public ramps

By Robert Anderson Islander Reporter

Manatee County is exploring the possibility of collecting launch fees at public boat ramps.

At a June 17 meeting of the county board, Commissioner Tal Siddique, R-District 3, motioned to direct staff to research a potential fee structure and compile revenue projections and implementation plans.

Commission Chair George Kruse, R-District 7, seconded the motion, which passed 6-1. Commissioner Bob McCann, R-District 5, voted no.

This isn’t the first time commissioners looked at launch fees. In 2019, the board discussed fees but the proposal failed to gain traction.

The county operates nine saltwater boat ramps, including four between northwest Bradenton and Anna Maria Island. The facilities offer 234 trailer spaces.

“In addition to pretty expensive capital outlays … there are a lot of regular maintenance activities or amenities that people ask for,” Siddique said of ramps.

as work in real estate. He’s currently managing partner of Kallins, Little and Brosious Hardball Law in Palmetto.

Little’s website is meltonforhouse.com.

Kristen Truong, also a Republican, announced her candidacy for the District 71 seat in April. She grew up in Bradenton, earned a bachelor’s degree in international studies at the University of South Florida and a master’s in public administration at American University.

Her statement on her website — votekristen.com — reads, “The opportunity to serve a community that I’ve called home my entire life is not a responsibility I take lightly. I will never stop fighting for the conservative values that make our county and state the best place to live and grow a family.”

Truong is the wife of Manatee County Commissioner Tal Siddique, R-District 3. — Lisa neff

“I think it just needs a bit of a self-sustaining funding source.”

“The ask today is just for staff … to come back and present us with a bit of a plan for implementation. To see if the juice is really worth the squeeze,” he also said.

Siddique said any fees would apply to boat launches not general parking.

Commissioner James Bearden, R-District 6, pushed back.

“Sounds like a double taxation to me,” he said.

Bearden said the proposal could run counter to his values. “I think that we need to keep our waters free, our government small and protect the interest of the taxpayers,” he said.

Kruse expressed conditional support, favoring a fee system for parking that targets noncounty users.

“It’s the lack of parking, not the lack of people launching boats,” Kruse said.

“I know on the beaches… there is an opportunity to use license-plate readers or other things to only charge non-Manatee County people,” Kruse said. “So they’re not being double taxed.”

Kruse specifically referred to boaters from Hills-

Staff is expected to

a proposal, including cost projections and policy options.

No permits yet for Rod & Reel Pier rebuild

There has yet to be any real progress on the demolition and rebuild of the Rod & Reel Pier in Anna Maria — wiped out by the 2024 hurricanes.

The city fulfilled a records request June 20 from The Islander for any permits regarding work on the pier with a reply, “There are no records responsive to this request.”

The pier was damaged by Hurricane Helene last September and then Hurricane Milton wiped all but some piles off the map.

Pier owner Oliver “Oli” Lemke, a German brewer and restaurateur, has expressed a desire to rebuild the pier, with a GoFundMe campaign raising

$100,547 as of June 20.

While no permits have been issued, Rod & Reel employees and community members pitched in with a cleanup June 14-15. They removed piles of scrap, utility lines and material from the ruins so it could be taken to a junkyard.

In the meantime, a pier restaurant is slated to reopen in the former home of the Old Hamburg Schnitzelhaus, 3246 E. Bay Drive, Holmes Beach. Lemke has not responded to multiple calls from The Islander regarding the pier’s reconstruction or an opening date for the new, land-locked restaurant.

— Ryan Paice

Modern Chop Happy Hour Light Bite Specials 4-6, lounge only.

Martini Monday: Signature Martinis, $7, plus 1/2 price lite bites -- lounge only. ▼ Tuesday: $3 Tacos and Margaritas 4-9, lounge only. ▲ Wine Down Wednesday, 5O% OFF Wines by the Glass ▼ Live Maine Lobster Thursdays, plus Happy Hour in the lounge all nite.

Boaters prepare to haul their vessel out of the water June 9, 2024, at Kingfish Boat Ramp in Holmes Beach. Islander File Photo: Robert Anderson

borough launching at Manatee ramps.

Hillsborough County collects $5 to launch at boat ramps.

return to the board with

County to seek erosion control funding for Bradenton Beach

By Robert Anderson Islander Reporter

Manatee County commissioners voted unanimously June 17 to approve a funding request for a project aimed at restoring eroded shoreline and strengthening coastal resiliency in Bradenton Beach.

The request will be submitted to the Florida Department of Environmental Protection’s Beach Management Funding Assistance Program. The window for fiscal year 2026-27 is open through July 31.

County natural resources director Charlie Hunsicker outlined plans June 18 during a meeting of county and Bradenton Beach officials.

The application follows an assessment conducted by Coastal Protection Engineering LLC, a firm with offices in Florida and North Carolina. The firm estimated that beaches in Bradenton Beach lost about 74,800 cubic yards of sand due to erosion.

The county plans to dredge sand from a borrow in Longboat Pass, pump the sand to the shoreline and then level the sand.

Hunsicker said the county plans to remove concrete jetties at north Coquina Beach and construct four offshore breakwaters to reduce wave energy.

for the 2025-26 fiscal year.

However, the fate of the budget now rests in the hands of Gov. Ron DeSantis, who has line-item veto power and until July 2 to act.

Short did not request a specific dollar amount during the presentation, but the $3.1 million request he included is based on estimated expenditures for the rest of the year.

He said the city estimates to spend $1.1 million between the demo and T-end remediation by the end of September and another $2 million between October and December for driving piles.

According to Short’s presentation, the city plans to request an additional $4.9 million from the county and TDC for costs next year.

TDC member and Bradenton Mayor Gene Brown asked how much Anna Maria will contribute to the rebuild.

Short said he could not provide an answer until

Another component to the restoration is the rehabilitation of the Longboat Pass jetty. The work will involve reinforcing with a sheet pile retaining wall and rebuilding the storm-damaged seaward end using limestone boulders.

The county also has a hazard mitigation plan that includes placing about 10,000 native dune plants across 19,200 square feet of beach.

People congregate around the concrete/rock jetties at north coquina Beach in Bradenton Beach, where a county beach restoration construction plan, calls for new breakwaters.

Hunsicker said the construction is expected to begin in 2026.

Bradenton Beach Commissioner Debbie Scaccianoce raised concern about vulnerability in hurricane season, pointing to the loss of beach dunes, which can protect property.

“God forbid, if anything happens, we really have no protection currently, correct?” she said.

the puzzle for funding from FEMA and the state gets solved.

“We know we’re going to have skin in the game,” he assured.

passed unanimously.

The recommendation will be presented to the county commissioners this summer.

Elliott Falcione, executive director of the Bradenton Area Convention and Visitors Bureau, suggested the TDC recommend approving up to $2 million in tourist tax money.

He added that any funding agreement would contain a restrictive covenant for the county to build a water ferry landing at the pier.

Brown made the motion, which was seconded and

The pier matter also came up during a June 18 meeting between city and county officials, who expressed support for funding.

County Commission Chair George Kruse attended the meeting, while Commissioners Tal Siddique and Carol Ann Felts attended via speakerphone.

Short and Anna Maria Commissioners Charlie Salem, Christopher Arendt and Kathleen MorganJohnson attended the meeting in person.

Kruse said the county could front the capital for the pier project and voiced his “full support.”

“This has to be rebuilt,” Kruse said. “We want to get this thing done. … Let’s make sure this pier comes back the way it was but better.”

Siddique said he wanted to meet Short’s proposed timeline for completing the rebuild.

“It is really encouraging to hear your commitment on the county funding,” Salem said.

Correction

The story “New beach rules mirror county in Holmes Beach, up for discussion in Anna Maria” in the June 18 Islander incorrectly reported that Anna Maria City Commissioner Christopher Arendt said he gardens at his home on the beach. It was resident Jeff Rodencal who made that statement.

Music Lessons: Guitar, Bass Piano, Ukulele, Saxophone and More

Islander Photo: Robert Anderson

aM Pier contInued FRom PAge 1

Anna maria city commissioner charlie Salem, left, and mayor mark Short, right, listen June 18 to manatee county commissioner george Kruse, center. Islander

Photo: courtesy manatee county

County, city eye multimodal future for Bradenton Beach

By Robert Anderson Islander Reporter

A joint meeting between Manatee County and Bradenton Beach officials June 18 outlined a shared vision for easing traffic congestion with multimodal transit amenities, a ferry service expansion and infrastructure improvements.

At the meeting, officials shared conceptual plans to better connect the mainland to Anna Maria Island with expanded pedestrian and low-speed vehicle access, upgraded intersections and added public ferry sites.

Bradenton Beach city attorney Ricinda Perry presented a proposed multimodal trail network aimed at linking mainland parking and marinas to Bradenton Beach destinations, including Leffis Key and Coquina Beach.

“You have some amazing resources and I feel underutilized natural resources that your county residents and visitors should be able to enjoy,” Perry said.

One trail segment would run from Cortez, across the new bridge, through the privately-owned Bradenton Beach Marina and down to the Historic Bridge

Nesting above the beach

three young great blue herons sit June 19 in a nest in an Australian pine tree on greer Island at the north end of Longboat Key. A woman in a nearby condo where a adult bird landed on her balcony railing appeared frustrated with the noise from the birds.

Street Pier, which already hosts a Gulf Islands Ferry stop.

“If you’re putting your marina in (at Cortez) and potentially having people parking and enjoying your amenities over on the mainland side, it would be great to somehow connect a walkway from where the bridge stops … and eliminate cars,” Perry said, referring to the county plan to use the former Seafood Shack property in Cortez for a boat ramp and marina.

County Commissioner Tal Siddique, R-District 3, attending remotely, acknowledged a need for longterm planning in Cortez.

“We still need time to formalize plans but I think we all know what is going on in Cortez, with the intensity of development along that corridor,” he said. “Not to mention the attention by FDOT with the Cortez corridor vision and action plan plus the bridge and the infrastructure improvements coming there.”

Another component of the city’s concept includes a multimodal trail connecting the Bridge Street pier to Coquina Beach and Leffis Key, which Perry called “incredibly underutilized.”

On the county side, Clark Davis, deputy director of

JulY 4tH reaDY contInued FRom PAge 1

allowed.”

Holmes Beach police Chief Bill Tokajer said the department will have additional officers on duty.

“This is one of our busiest weekends and it’s also turtle nesting season,” Tokajer said June 18. “There are no approved fireworks shows on the island and private fireworks are prohibited.”

Novelty items like sparklers and smoke devices are allowed but not explosive or aerial fireworks.

“Come with the idea of having a family-friendly atmosphere,” Tokajer said. “We want them to realize that if they are vacationing in our city, that they are vacationing in a residential area and, although we want them to have a good time, to keep the noise to a respectable level.”

He encouraged motorists to use the city’s online parking map, available at holmesbeachfl.org, to find public spaces.

Plan now for summer!

Is your business ready to make the most of a new season?

Improve your odds of success with Islander newspaper readers looking to shop and dine, seeking indoor and outdoor fun, and a place to stay for their next visit. Call or text 941-778-7978.

In Anna Maria, the MCSO operates a substation and serves as the city’s law enforcement agency.

The MCSO, for holidays, usually increases the number of deputies on patrol, as well as assigns special response units.

The county’s mounted patrols will be at Coquina Beach and the marine unit will patrol coastal waters.

Fire Marshal Rodney Kwiatkowski with the West Manatee Fire Rescue encouraged fi re safety, water safety and heat awareness.

“We are always reminding people to be safe after they have lit fireworks … to soak them in water for up to 10 minutes before they discard them and to keep a good distance from homes and wooded areas,” Kwiatkowski said.

He also said, “It’s getting to be that time of year again, at its hottest. We are reminding people to stay hydrated … and their pets.”

traffic management, proposed infrastructure enhancements to address bottlenecks, such as extending a right-turn lane at Cortez Road and Gulf Drive.

“There should be a way to lengthen that turn lane by at least a couple hundred feet, which might provide some relief for traffic at that intersection,” Davis said.

The project would require securing access from properties along Gulf Drive. Davis said the DOT does not have funding but could allow a city- or county-led improvement if the land is acquired.

However, Bradenton Beach officials were cautious about supporting property acquisition.

“The city commission has always been in opposition of eminent domain of anybody’s property,” Mayor John Chappie said.

Davis also mentioned potential impacts to Coquina Beach access with a Longboat Pass Bridge replacement. Of the four alternatives under DOT review, one — a 78-foot-high fixed-span bridge — would eliminate a main access at Coquina, potentially limiting parking and boat ramp entry.

Stepping out, out of uniform Holmes Beach Police chief Bill tokajer, right, and his wife, thea, pose June 17 while attending the Florida Police chiefs Association’s 73rd annual summer conference at the Loews miami Beach Hotel. the FPcA describes itself as one of the largest state police chiefs associations in the united States, “composed of more than 1,000 of the state’s top law enforcement executives and members.” Islander courtesy Photo

NOW OFFERING PERMANENT JEWELRY !

Islander Photo: Jacob merrifield

No. No. No. No fireworks

on the beach!

You see the signs when you pull onto the island on Manatee Avenue.

No pets, no fires, no grilling on the beach.

Add to that for the coming week: no fireworks on the beach!

That includes any sort of pyrotechnics that go boom! Or fly!

You can set things afire on the mainland, but not on the beaches.

Finally, common sense is prevailing on Anna Maria Island and people have accepted — for the most part — that fireworks and the beach do not mix.

For starters, July 4 falls squarely into sea turtle and shorebird nesting seasons and it’s nesting birds and sea turtles that now rule the beaches!

And I say, good for them. It seems every July 4 holiday, the usual suspects travel to Anna Maria Island to try to blow themselves up on the beach with bootleg fireworks from questionable suppliers. They piss off the residents. And they send their $$$ up in smoke. And occasionally burn up the dune plants. They terrify small children, pets and wildlife.

They put marinelife at risk by sending their rockets and the debris that trails behind into the Gulf of Mexico and the bays and waterways. They litter nearly every inch of shoreline and the beach accesses with firework waste, bottles and cans, food waste, broken chairs and umbrellas and every manner of trash imaginable.

Whenever the cities and waste haulers increase the number of bins and cans for waste, it seems the trash piles increase proportionally to overflowing, causing more hazards for the environment and the people who live and make their living on the island.

The fireworks seem to add very little to the patriotic holiday.

You do know, of course, that we celebrate the Fourth of July, aka Independence Day, to commemorate the adoption of the Declaration of Independence on July 4, 1776.

The document formally declared the American colonies’ separation from Great Britain, becoming, essentially, the nation’s birthday — the beginning of the United States as an independent nation.

If only the folks on AMI could declare their independence from people who want to “yahoo” their way through the Fourth of July at Mother Nature’s — and our own — expense.

I only hope we can all maintain our independence and our democracy for three more years.

— Bonner Joy, news@islander.org

Murphy

The truth about kale

Kale sucks. Everyone knows this. Big Farma, the evil agricultural conglomerate - not to be confused with Big Pharma, the evil drug conglomerate —

has foisted a fable that kale is good for us.

Kale originated in China.

It insinuated its way into America as a hardy plant to line walkways and flower beds at golf courses because bugs won’t eat it.

Desperate golf club chefs started to use the kale to line their shrimp trays.

At the Bistro everyone wanted a window table.

I showed a very haughty lady to a non-window table. The only table available. She glared around the room. The stiffness started in her lower back then snapped upward until it lifted her nose.

She, “Never in my wildest dreams did I imagine that this would be my table.”

Me, exasperated, “Well madam, it is not my fault that you have a limited imagination.”

And I pushed the chair under her derrière and moved on.

— Sean murphy

▼ Publisher, editor

Bonner Joy, news@islander.org

▼ Editorial Robert Anderson, robert@islander.org

Joe Bird, editorial cartoonist Kevin cassidy, kevin@islander.org

Jack elka, jack@jackelka.com

Lisa neff, lisa@islander.org Ryan Paice, ryan@islander.org

▼ Contributors

Jacob merrifield

capt. danny Stasny, fish@islander.org

Sean murphy

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Ingrid mcclellan, ingrid.theislander@gmail.com ads@islander.org

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▼ Distribution

urbane Bouchet

Ross Roberts

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Hedge fund guys saw kale on the buffets and overinvested in it.

All others: info@islander.org

As more and more young people appreciated that golf is a stupid game contrived to drive old white guys to madness, golf brunches lost patrons and the kale market imploded.

The Big Farma guys then tried feeding it to cows.

Animals that hung around all day chewing seemed the perfect customers for kale.

The cows won’t eat the damn kale.

Then Big Farma realized people are dumber than cows.

“We will get people to eat the kale. We can tell them it’s good for them.”

Now we have people all over America are chewing away on kale, looking like cows.

— Sean murphy

Your table awaits

Occasionally, I have something to say that springs from 40 years of being “restaurant guy.”

I am almost never rude.

I counted — in 40 Bistro years, I attended, on average, 1.3 million patrons.

Sean murphy is proprietor of the doctor’s office and the doctor’s garden, a craft cocktail bar with fine dining in an intimate setting in Holmes Beach as well as an outdoor “garden” dining area with entertainment — when weather permits.

Your opinion

Clear the path

Please investigate the lack of maintenance being done by the Florida Department of Transportation on the pedestrian walkway going over the Anna Maria Island Bridge, where people cross on their bikes or walk. I crossed over it and I was surprised by the amount of debris covering the walkway.

I know the bridge is to be replaced at some point but that should not stop the DOT or whoever is in charge of maintaining the bridge from making sure it is clear of debris and safe to cross by residents and people visiting Anna Maria Island, especially since only one side is opened to cross over.

Craig Cappello, Bradenton

That’s a lot of nice.

But occasionally, my Irish sarcasm rears its ugly head.

Please, submit opinions with name, address and phone number to news@islander.org. Only the name and city are published.

Gulfside pier

manatee Public Beach in 1964 featured a pavilion and a pier. the stairs cascaded from the rooftop to a walkway across the patio, onto the sand and into the gulf.

Islander Photos: manatee county Public Library archives

Skimming online

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B. Get out to the parade.

C. Watch fireworks.

D. All of the above.

To answer the poll and see poll results, go to islander.org. Email lisa@ islander.org with poll suggestions.

Beachgoers crowd the shore near the pier at the manatee Public Beach in the early 1990s.

10-20-30 years ago

From the June 22, 1995, issue

• Fire destroyed an art studio and home on Gulf Drive in Bradenton Beach. The fire also forced the evacuation of units at the Tropic Isle Motel.

• A former bookkeeper for the Sandbar and Beach House restaurants on the island pleaded no contest to grand theft charges. The bookkeeper was accused of stealing nearly $300,000.

• A west Manatee farmer reported that a pet pig — Ned — was taken from a pen and killed. A cash reward was offered for information leading to an arrest.

From the June 22, 2005, issue

• Owners of rental properties in Holmes Beach urged the planning commission to revise a recommendation to limit rentals in the single-family residential and medium density districts to a 30-day minimum.

• Sea turtle monitors reported the first two months of the 2005 nesting season were slow. As of mid-June, the beach walkers had documented 32 nests. Slow starts also were reported from other beaches.

• The average home listed for sale on the island was $1.0864 million. The average listing for a condominium was $1.04 million. The average sale price for a single-family home was $733,994 and the average sale price for a condo was $529,000

From

the June 24, 2015,

issue

• The Beach House in Bradenton Beach announced the end of a tradition — July 3 fireworks — because of concern for nesting shorebirds.

• Bradenton Beach officials were collecting proposals from services interested in operating on the Historic Bridge Street Pier, where the city evicted a restaurant tenant for nonpayment of rent.

— Lisa neff

ARTS & ENTERTAINMENT

ONGOING ON AMI

• Throughout June, Artists’ Guild of Anna Maria Island exhibits “Up and Away,” Artists’ Guild Gallery, 5414 Marina Drive, Holmes Beach. Info: 941-778-6694.

ONGOING OFF AMI

• Throughout June, Island Gallery and Studios presents “Harmony: Lines, Shapes and Color,” 456 Old Main St., Bradenton. Info: 941-778-6648.

• Through June 29, “George Harrison: A Gardener’s Life,” Marie Selby Botanical Gardens, 1534 Mound St., Sarasota. Fee applies. Info: 941-366-5731.

• Through July 30, “Art from the Heart: Connectivity,” The Ringling, 5401 Bay Shore Road, Sarasota. Info: 941-359-5700.

• Through Aug. 3, “Robert Rauschenberg: A Centennial Celebration,” The Ringling, 5401 Bay Shore Road, Sarasota. Fee applies except Mondays. Info: 941-359-5700.

• Through Aug. 9, “Circus Spectacular 2025,” The Ringling, 5401 Bay Shore Road, Sarasota. Fee applies except Mondays. Info: 941-359-5700.

• Thursday-Saturday, through Aug. 30, the Bishop Museum of Science and Nature Laser Light Nights, 201 10th St. W., Bradenton. Fee applies. Info: 941-746-4131.

• Through Aug. 31, “Life on the Edge” exhibit, the Bishop Museum of Science, 201 10th St. W., Bradenton. Fee applies. Info: 941-746-4131.

• Through Jan. 11, Yoshida Hiroshi: Journeys through Light,” The Ringling, 5401 Bay Shore Road, Sarasota. Fee applies except Mondays. Info: 941-359-5700.

• First Fridays, 6-9:30 p.m., Village of the Arts First Fridays Artwalk, 12th Street West and 12th Avenue West, Bradenton. Info: villageofthearts.com.

• Second and fourth Saturdays, 2-4 p.m., Florida Maritime Museum’s Music on the Porch, 4415 119th St. W., Cortez. Info: 941-708-6120.

SAVE THE DATES

Oct. 18, Anna Maria Island Chamber of Commerce’s Bayfest, Anna Maria.

KIDS & FAMILY ON AMI

Thursday, June 26

10 a.m. — Puppet show, Island Library, 5701 Marina Drive,

DEVINE DESIGN

Up, up and away

Jack Robbins, 6, of orlando, gets a helping hand from his mother, Liz, as he flies a jet-shaped kite on a breezy afternoon in Holmes Beach just south of the manatee Public Beach. Islander Photo: Robert Anderson

Holmes Beach. Info: 941-778-6341.

Wednesday, July 2

10 a.m. — Teddy bear workshop, island Library, 5701 Marina Drive, Holmes Beach. Info: 941-778-6341.

ONGOING ON AMI

• Most Fridays, 10 a.m., Forty Carrots, Island Library, 5701 Marina Drive, Holmes Beach. Info: 941-778-6341.

• Most Tuesdays, 10 a.m., Family Storytime, Island Library, 5701 Marina Drive, Holmes Beach. Info: 941-778-6341.

SAVE THE DATES

• July 4, Anna Maria Island Privateers Fourth of July Parade, Bradenton Beach to Anna Maria.

• July 4, Freedom Fest, Longboat Key.

• July 4, Bradenton/Palmetto Fourth of July festivals and fireworks, Manatee Riverfront.

CLUBS & COMMUNITY

ONGOING ON AMI

• Most Fridays, 11:30 a.m., mahjong, Island Library, 5701 Marina Drive, Holmes Beach. Info: 941-778-6341.

• Most Tuesdays, 11:30 a.m., mahjong, Island Library, 5701 Marina Drive, Holmes Beach. Info: 941-778-6341.

SAVE THE DATES

• July 12, Kiwanis Club of Anna Maria Island meeting, Braden-

ton Beach.

LESSONS & LEARNING

ONGOING ON AMI

• Mondays through August, Sea Turtle Tracks and Shorebird Facts with Anna Maria Island Turtle Watch, 10 a.m., Holmes Beach City Hall, 5801 Marina Drive. Info: 941-301-8434.

OFF AMI

Saturday, June 28

9 a.m. — Save Your Stuff: Protecting Your Family Treasures workshop, Florida Maritime Museum, 4415 119th St. W., Cortez. Info: 941-708-6120.

SPORTS & FITNESS ON AMI

Wednesday, June 25

10:30 a.m. — Yoga and Reiki workshop, Center of Anna Maria Island, 407 Magnolia Ave., Anna Maria. Info: 941-778-1908.

ONGOING OFF AMI

• Through Sept. 7, various dates, Bradenton Marauders baseball, LECOM Park, 1611 Ninth St. W., Bradenton. Fee applies. Info: 941-747-3031.

SAVE THE DATES

• July 3, Bradenton Marauders Independence Day Celebration, Bradenton.

• July 12, Run Manatee Coquina Beach 5K, Bradenton Beach.

• July 12, Bradenton Marauders Pride Night, Bradenton.

• Sept. 6, Marauders Fan Appreciation Night, Bradenton.

Thursday, June 26

8:45 p.m. — Manatee County Parks and Natural Resources’ FrogWatch, Perico Preserve, 11700 Manatee Ave. W., Perico Island. Info: emily.laughlin@mymanatee.org. ONGOING OFF AMI

• Saturdays through July, 6:45 a.m., Longboat Key Turtle Watch walks, beach access, 4795 Gulf of Mexico Drive, LBK. Info: www. lbkturtlewatch.com.

CALENDAR NOTES

KEEP THE DATES

• Sea turtle nesting season continues. Lights out.

• Atlantic hurricane season continues. Be prepared.

• Through June, Pride Month.

• July 4, Independence Day.

ANNOUNCEMENTS GET LISTED!

Send listings to calendar@islander.org.

Yoga, Reiki workshop offered

The Center of Anna Maria Island will host a workshop Wednesday, June 25, introducing students to Reiki and yoga integration.

The program — free to attend — will begin at 10:30 a.m. at the center, 407 Magnolia Ave., Anna Maria.

A center news release said, “This introductory session will explore the basics of Reiki, a gentle Japanese healing technique that promotes relaxation, balance and stress relief. … The workshop will conclude with a calming guided meditation.”

For more information, call 941-778-1908.

FrogWatch at Perico

The Manatee County Natural Resources Department will present a FrogWatch program at 8:45 p.m. Thursday, June 26, at Perico Preserve, 11700 Manatee Ave. W., Perico Island.

“We will talk about frog monitoring then split into groups and monitor different ponds for frog calls!” read a notice from the department.

The county has launched a citizen-science program to contribute information to a national FrogWatch USA database.

Registration for the event is required.

For more information, email emily.laughlin@ mymanatee.org.

The natural resources department can be reached at 941-748-4501.

GoodDeeds

By Lisa neff

Assistance sought on AMI

• All Island Denominations accepts financial donations at P.O. Box 814, Anna Maria, FL 34216. Info: 941-778-4769.

• The Anna Maria Island Concert Chorus and Orchestra seeks volunteers, donors and a venue space. Info: info@amicco.org.

• The Anna Maria Island Historical Society, 402 Pine Ave., Anna Maria, seeks donations for restoration and volunteers. Info: 608-444-0084.

• The Anna Maria Island Privateers seeks a covered building and/or land for the Skullywag, sleigh and other items. Info: amiprivateers.org.

• The Florida Maritime Museum in Cortez, which is closed for renovations and repairs, seeks a temporary space for public exhibits. Info: 941-708-6120.

• The Friends of the Island Library seeks volunteers, including for website management and graphic design. Info: 941-778-4255.

• The Island Players in Anna Maria seeks volunteers in every area to “come and be part of our family.” Info: 941-920-1362.

• Wildlife Education and Rehabilitation Center in Bradenton Beach seeks gift cards for supplies. Info: 941-778-6324.

Assistance offered on AMI

• Roser Food Bank welcomes applicants for food assistance, Roser Church, 512 Pine Ave., Anna Maria. Info: 941-778-0414.

• AID offers financial help. Info: 941-778-4769.

Island happenings

compiled by Lisa neff

Privateers ready island’s Independence Day Parade

By Lisa neff Islander editor

A red, white and blue procession will roll from island’s end to island’s end on Independence Day.

The all-American holiday will be celebrated on Anna Maria Island Friday, July 4, with the Anna Maria Island Privateers’ Fourth of July Parade and Water Fight.

The parade will begin at 10 a.m. at Coquina Beach in Bradenton Beach, with participants due to arrive for staging by 9:30 a.m.

The parade will travel north on Gulf Drive.

In Holmes Beach, the parade will travel on Gulf, East Bay, Marina and Palm drives.

In Anna Maria, the parade will travel on Gulf Drive, then Pine Avenue east to Bay Boulevard, ending at Bayfront Park.

Participants must be on wheels.

Some other encouragements and cautions:

• Entries must feature a banner identifying representation;

• Political advertising and campaigning is not allowed;

• Entries should be decked out for the holiday.

• Water guns are allowed but water balloons and high-powered sprays are not allowed.

For more information about the island parade, go online to amiprivateers.org or call Privateer Kim “Syren” Boyd at 931-639-0986.

There are no permitted fireworks shows planned on AMI beaches, which are home to nesting sea turtles and nesting shorebirds.

Off-island fireworks and more

Celebrations also are planned on Longboat Key and on the mainland, including:

• The Bradenton Marauders will celebrate the holiday Thursday, July 3, at LECOM Park.

The team, decked out in “patriotic jerseys,” will take on the Fort Myers Mighty Mussels in a baseball game.

After the game, the team will celebrate Independence Day with a fireworks display.

Tickets are $16-$30.

The game will begin at 6:30 p.m.

For tickets, go to www.milb.com/bradenton and for more information call 941-747-3031.

• Longboat Key’s 22nd annual Freedom Fest will begin at 9 a.m. July 4 at Bicentennial Park on Bay Isles Road.

Plans include a parade into the park, games, music, food and drink and a butterfly release.

For more information, call the Longboat Key Chamber of Commerce at 941-383-2466.

• On July 4, fireworks will begin after dark along the riverfront in Bradenton and Palmetto with the show originating from the Green Bridge at about 9 p.m.

Beginning at 5 p.m., the city of Palmetto will host Fourth Fest at Riverside Park, 801 Riverside Drive, featuring music by DJ James Thomas — Holmes Beach’s code compliance chief, Music Royale and the Eric Von Band, as well a kids’ activity zone, a food court and a beer garden.

“We’re thrilled to bring people together in the heart of Palmetto to celebrate our nation’s independence,” said Palmetto Mayor Dan West in a news release. “Fourth Fest reflects the spirit of our city — welcome, festive and rooted in American pride.”

For more information, call the city at 941-7234570.

Also beginning at 5 p.m., the city of Bradenton will host the Fourth of July Independence Day Celebration at Rossi Park on the Riverwalk, featuring music by Phoenix 5 and 22N, food vendors, a kids’ zone and more.

“Events like this show what’s possible when we come together,” said Bradenton Mayor Gene Brown in a news release.

For more information, go to cityofbradenton.com or call 941-932-9400.

SINCE 2006

Manatee Chamber of Commerce Member

People watch the Anna maria Island Privateers’ Independence day Parade pass in 2018. this year’s parade on July 4 will begin at about 10 a.m. at coquina Beach and travel north to Bayfront Park in Anna maria. Islander File

Photo

Gathering

By Lisa Neff

Roser adjusts services for construction project

Roser Memorial Community Church will begin holding its 10 a.m. service in the fellowship hall Sunday, June 29, to make way for planned construction in the sanctuary.

The church will continue to hold its 8:30 a.m.

Obituaries

Wayne Joseph Lashway

Wayne Joseph Lashway, 73, of Bradenton, died June 18.

He was born Sept. 16, 1951, in Davenport, Iowa, to Claire and Harold Lashway.

He lived a life of love for family, friends, fishing and golf.

He graduated from State University of New York, Geneseo, New York, with a speech communications degree. He met Toni in 1974 and they were married May 28, 1977.

They lived on Longboat Key 1979-2013, where Mr. Lashway worked as manager of SeaPlace condominiums. He then began work for Michael Saunders, managing White Sands Resort on LBK. Mrs. Lashway taught at Anna Maria Elementary School and together they embraced “The Island Life!”

Between work, fishing, golf and time with family and friends, he found time to coach children at the community center. Many young people benefitted from his coaching skills in baseball and soccer and his community involvement on AMI and Longboat Key brought him years of joy.

After a cancer diagnosis two and a half years ago, he showed determination, positivity and faithful strength as he underwent continual treatment until the day he died.

He traveled to visit family when he could, went fishing with his brothers and friends, played golf, celebrated holidays with joy and even took a hot air balloon ride in New York, something he had always wanted to do.

After losing their home in Cortez to Hurricane Helene’s flood waters, he carried on. He was an example to all for adopting the view that “It matters not, how many days you live, but how you live your days.”

He is dearly missed.

A memorial service will be held at 1 p.m. Sunday, June 29, at Brown and Sons Funeral Home, 604 43rd St. W., Bradenton. Brown & Sons Funeral Homes & Crematory is in charge of arrangements.

A reception will follow at Timber Creek condominium clubhouse, 4550 Timber Lane, Bradenton.

Memorial donations may be made to TideWell Hospice or St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital

Mr. Lashway is survived by his beloved wife of 48 years, Toni; children Ryan and Kelsey and husband Alan Yim; brothers Paul and wife Judy, Dennis and wife Dee and Keith; grandchildren Ryan Jr., Karter and Joseph and Cora and Tyler Yim; and numerous in-laws, nieces, nephews and cousins.

Marcus Gregory Modisett

Marcus “Marc” Gregory Modisett, 68, died June 13.

He was born April 17, 1957, in Paterson, New Jersey, the son of Douglass Mitchell and Katherine Wilhemina (Carpenter) Modisett.

He grew up in New Jersey, where he developed a strong work ethic, a deep love for his family and met the love of his life, Lynn (Johnsen) Modisett.

He became distinguished in his underwater and land construction career, leading numerous projects, including the refurbishment of the Statue of Liberty.

He and Lynn built a family home in New Jersey, cinder block by cinder block. Later, they moved with their daughters to Holmes Beach, where together they established Captains Marina in Holmes Beach.

He was a pillar of strength and support for his family. He was a devoted father, always offering guidance, love and a smile to daughters Michelle and Kristina. He cherished family gatherings, bringing warmth and joy to all those around him.

He lived life to the fullest, inspiring those around him to reach for the stars and chase their dreams. He had many passions in life, including travel, music and education, which he enjoyed sharing with family. He was known for his legendary kindness, never-ending love, generosity, infectious laughter, boundless imagination, sense of humor and ability to fix anything. His innovation, patience, wisdom and dedication to his family were unwavering.

A private family service will be held to honor and celebrate his life. The family requests donations be made to the Parkinson’s Foundation at Parkinson. org.

He was loved beyond words and forever in our hearts.

Mr. Modisett is survived by his loving wife of 42 years, Lynn; children Michelle and husband Christopher Sporn and Kristina and husband Jason Huefner; grandchildren Andrew Huefner, Landon, Logan, Emma, and Reid; siblings Michael and wife Pamela and Matthew and wife Elizabeth; as well as more family and friends.

Douglas M. Terry

Douglas M. Terry of Holmes Beach died June 16.

He was born Aug. 15, 1938, in Riverhead, Long Island, New York, to Richard C. and Sara B. Hill Terry

Roser church’s worshippers gather for an easter celebration in the sanctuary. the church plans to remodel the choir platform. Islander Photo: courtesy Bev Hunsberger

Sunday service in the historic Roser Chapel, 512 Pine Ave., Anna Maria.

The church also will livestream both services on YouTube.

Roser embarked on a capital campaign last year to support remodeling the choir platform, which was built more than 30 years ago.

A notice posted on the church’s website, roserchurch.com, said, “So it’s finally here! Our faith journey will soon become a reality.”

For more info, call the church at 941-778-0414.

of Aquebogue. He moved to Florida in 1995 after living in New Hampshire for 30 years. He traces his roots back to Long Sutton, the county of Hampshire, England, where Richard Terry settled in 1480.

In 1635, the three brothers came over to Massachusetts

on the ship called James. They moved to Long Island, New York, between 1640 and 1650. These pioneers were active in the settling of Southold, Long Island, one of the earliest settlements in the country.

His great grandfather, Decon Danial Terry, and others fought the British to keep America free and later his great-grandfather, Columbus F. Terry, left his farm and young Irish wife Theressa, to fight for three years in the Civil War with the fifth Heavy Artillery NY. He fought against his wife’s sisters’ husbands. The sisters migrated to Richmond, Virginia, and married there. Mr. Terry’s grandfather, Richard Terry Sr., and Edna Hallock ran the family farm in Baiting Hollow, New York, until his death in 1914.

Mr. Terry enjoyed a long career in real estate investments in New Hampshire and as a real estate professional was elected to the president of Realtors Land Institute of New Hampshire. He was chairman of the state Realtor marketing committee and was a 50-year member of the National Board of Realtors. He formed several real estate companies and specialized in land and property sales. His companies included Terrys’ Real Estate, Terry Brothers, Terry East and Earth Resources Corporation. He held licenses as a New Hampshire and New York State residential real estate appraiser.

He was a veteran serving in the U.S. Navy in Japan and later in Hawaii, where he specialized in communications.

In 1978, he graduated from the University of New Hampshire.

He enjoyed photography as a hobby and was active in sports throughout his senior years, enjoying tennis, swimming and becoming proficient as a Black Belt in several forms of Martial Arts. In the 1970s and ’80s, he owned the Karate Institute in Concord, New Hampshire. His senior years included much boating and fishing on the Florida waterways.

He served as president of an Anna Maria group that cherished the Anna Maria City Pier for many years, the Pier Regulars, and routinely shared photos of visitors

PLeASe, See obituaries, neXt PAge

Lashway

modisett

douglas m. terry on the Anna maria city Pier.

Former chief recalls WMFR’s formation on 25th anniversary

By Ryan Paice Islander Reporter

After two and a half decades, the West Manatee Fire Rescue District is bigger and better than ever.

Retired Chief Andy Price, WMFR’s first fire chief, spoke with The Islander June 19 about the district’s formation and growth over 25 years.

The district covers Anna Maria Island and west Bradenton, including Cortez. Before the district was established May 30, 2000, the area was covered by two agencies. The island cities and Cortez were in the all-volunteer Anna Maria Fire Control District, established in 1951. The West Side Fire Control District was founded in 1961 to provide services to western areas of mainland Manatee.

Price grew up on AMI and began volunteering as a firefighter with the Anna Maria district in 1979, when the only paid employee was a fire marshal and his father served on the district commission.

After serving in departments in Sarasota and on Longboat Key, Price was hired as Anna Maria’s fire marshal in 1987. He became chief in 1991, but by then the area had already begun to change.

In his early days with Anna Maria, there were more than 100 volunteers armed with pagers and plectrons.

“Back then, we had a lot of volunteers because … a lot of people lived and worked out here,” Price said. “But, as the island changed and the property values started to increase, the people that rented or worked out here slowly moved away.”

As the island became more of a tourist destination, its population began to decrease and, along with it, AMI’s wealth of volunteers.

Price said the district began struggling with day-

Andy Price arrives to a change-of-command ceremony in 2015. Islander File Photo

obituaries contInued FRom PAge 10

and the pier with The Islander.

Mr. Terry is survived by wife Betty L.; children Scott D. of New York, Bonnie A. Makkinje of Bradenton and Leisha C McQueeney of Pembroke, New Hampshire; brothers Frederick Hill of Baiting Hollow, New York, and Richard Dwight of Bradenton; and sister Jean B. Cunningham of Wappinger Falls, New York; stepson Ted Zehnder of Ohio; sisters in-law Angie Blunt of Perico Island, Glenna Thompson and Audrey Gear of Ohio; 11 grandchildren and 20 greatgrandchildren.

Jack E. Titsworth

Jack Edward Titsworth, 94, of Litchfield, Illinois, died June 14.

He was born July 9, 1930, in Mendota, Illinois, to Chauncey Marion and Mary Melburiene (Davidson) Titsworth.

He graduated from Roxana High School with the class of 1948. He married Alice Southard in 1949 and she preceded him in death in 1980.

He and Patricia M. Priddle were married Sept. 15,

time responses from volunteers in 1991-92, so they hired two full-time firefighters. A year later, the district hired a third full-time firefighter, with each working 24-hour shifts.

While volunteers provided the bulk of services in the early 1990s, their numbers continued to dwindle as the years went on. At the same time, the district’s call load was increasing.

“Instead of having a few calls a week, we were having a few calls a day,” Price said. “And it’s hard for someone to take off work a couple times a day to go on a call.”

The combination of a decreasing volunteer population and an increasing call load necessitated the hiring of more employees.

While the nature of the district was changing, Price said it was not a bad thing. With more full-time firefighters in the wings, the district’s response time to calls was cut in half.

However, the nature of fires also began to change, according to Price.

He said new development was often built with more combustible materials which, when ignited, spread faster and more intensely — making response times even more important. That change, as well as the introduction of better safety equipment, led to a new approach in firefighting methods.

In Price’s early days with Anna Maria, firefighters often spent several hours pumping water at a structure fire from the building’s exterior. By the district’s final decade, firefighters were equipped to take a more aggressive approach, entering burning buildings to search for people and the fire’s origin, then extinguishing the fire in a more direct and precise manner.

Price said discussion of the merger that created WMFR began in the mid-1990s, but escalated in 1997, when Chief Ed Cleveland of West Side — a smaller district facing many of the same struggles — retired.

By 1998, the two agencies had entered into an agreement and were working as a combined fire district, with Price as chief.

Two years later, state legislators passed a bill establishing WMFR through the merger of Anna Maria and West Side. Anna Maria had 17 paid employees and West Side had 11, bringing WMFR’s launch crew to 28.

1980.

He was a masonry contractor and owned and operated Jack Titsworth Masonry Contractors for several years. He was a member of the Bricklayers Local 8 in O’Fallon, Illinois, retiring in 1993. He enjoyed motorcycle trips, motor home travel, his Tennessee Walker horses and farm life.

He was a member of the Christian Church of Litchfield.

Memorials may be directed to the Christian Church of Litchfield or to Hart Cemetery Association. Plummer Funeral Home in Litchfield was in charge of arrangements. To sign the online guest book or light a virtual candle, go to plummerfuneralservices.com.

Mr. Titsworth is survived by wife, Patty; sons Steven and wife Judy of Holmes Beach, and Tim and wife Kelly of Cape Coral; grandchildren, Chad and Maureen, Joshua, Lauren and husband C.J. Wickersham, Ally and Aaron Reese, Jack and wife Deserae, Justin and Kaitlin; 15 great-grandchildren; and two great-great-grandchildren.

Price, who continued as chief following the merger, waxed nostalgia about the early days.

While volunteers were all but fazed out in the early 2000s, the district grew in other ways — often pushing the rest of the county’s fire rescue districts to follow its lead.

“We pushed forward a lot of programs that are in place now,” Price said. “We took the lead in getting computers in the firetrucks. We took the lead in getting AEDs on the firetrucks. … We had the first fireboat.”

“We were very progressive, and it’s because we had a good young department where guys wanted to accomplish things,” he added.

Price said his proudest accomplishment was the district’s push to add mobile computers to firetrucks to simplify the response process with call data and instant mapping, as well as obtaining grants to upgrade the county’s computer-aided dispatch system.

“When the dispatcher hits the button, it automatically sends all the right units and they don’t have to figure it out. It’s already done in the computer, which saves time,” he said.

By the time Price retired in 2015, WMFR had 44 employees and every firetruck staffed at all times with three firefighters/medics.

However, he left WMFR with one item remaining unchecked on his career bucket list: the implementation of advanced life support services on firetrucks so firefighters-paramedics could provide lifesaving interventions ahead of an ambulance.

The district checked that item off the list in 2017 when it became the first department in the county to implement ALS services.

“I’m so proud of where they are at now,” Price said. “It’s where I wanted to be 20 years ago.”

He also praised the district’s latest venture: the inspection of transient public lodging establishments for compliance with the Florida Fire Safety Code. Price said he wanted to implement such a program more than a decade ago but the district lacked precedent.

The district implemented its rental inspection program in 2024 and now has five inspectors working on rotation six days a week, including Price’s daughterin-law, Cierra Price.

WMFR now has 56 employees, twice the number it started with in 2000, according to fire Marshal Rodney Kwiatkowski.

Price said time had flown by since he started firefighting, and shared a story about Ben Rigney, WMFR’s current fire chief, to illustrate the point.

“When I was a fire-medic at Longboat Key, I worked with Johnny Rigney,” he said. “Ben was a month old when Cherri, his mom, brought him to the station. And I held Ben and walked around the fire station with him in my arms.”

“Fast-forward 20-some-odd years, and he’s the fire chief. He took my job,” Price added.

People can learn more about the fire district by visiting its website, wmfr.org.

WmFR’s Heritage coin, right, released in honor of its 25th anniversary, is dedicated to Anna maria Fire and West Side Fire. the two agencies merged into WmFR in 2000. Islander Photos: courtesy WmFR

nesting notes

By Lisa Neff

Share the shore

A holiday weekend is coming up and we’re looking for harmony and understanding.

The Independence Day celebration will begin Friday, July 4, and continue through the weekend with enough of a beach crowd expected that the city of Bradenton Beach declared a local state of emergency to be ready.

First-responders’ focus will be on handling traffic and parking and the conflict that can come with lots of people coming together on very hot days, but there’s also concern for protecting wild AMI, particularly ensuring the safety of sea turtles nesting at night and birds flocking to the shore during the day.

Thoughtful beachgoers can coexist with sea turtles and shorebirds.

They can start by giving sea turtle nesting areas a wide berth. Anna Maria Island Turtle Watch and

Turtle Talks on Mondays

The city of Holmes Beach is hosting Anna Maria Island Turtle Watch and Shorebird Monitoring for weekly talks about sea turtle and shorebird nesting.

Sea Turtle Tracks and Shorebird Facts talks continue most Mondays at 10 a.m. through August at city hall, 5801 Marina Drive.

For more information, call turtle watch at 941-3018434 or go to www.islandturtlewatch.com.

As of June 20, AmItW reported 272 nests, 512 false crawls and 18 disorientations.

Shorebird Monitoring volunteers have staked nests and beachgoers should avoid setting up tents, blankets and other gear on or around the nests.

Beachgoers also can be sure to pack up whatever they’ve hauled to the beach when leaving the shore. Leftover snacks or trash can attract raccoons and other animals that might raid turtle nests and bird colonies while beach furniture and other gear can interfere with nesting.

Beachgoers can remember that dark beaches are

It’s elementary

Class lessons from AMITW, AME

Guarding and monitoring

manatee county lifeguards gathered on the beach with Anna maria Island turtle Watch and Shorebird monitoring executive director Kristen mazzarella, fourth from left, the week ending June 15 for a sea turtle training session. they were able to document green and loggerhead nesting crawls at coquina Beach. Islander

the best beaches for nesting sea turtles, which can become disoriented by artificial light. Sea turtles use moonlight reflecting off the Gulf to find their way but artificial lighting can cause them to crawl away from the water.

“Even the most conscientious person can inadvertently spook a turtle that is coming onto the beach to nest,” said AMITW executive director Kristen Mazzarella. “If you are on the beach at night, please, remember not to use lights on the beach — this includes cellphones and flash photography — and if you use a red light, point it directly at the ground.”

Anna Maria Island Turtle Watch and Shorebird Monitoring, during the 2024-25 academic year, invited teachers and students at Anna Maria Elementary School in Holmes Beach to compose questions about sea turtles, shorebirds and AMITW’s work on the beaches. This summer, the Islander is sharing AME’s questions and AMITW’s answers.

Teacher Nicole O’Neill’s fourth-grade class: How many different species are there of sea turtles?

AMITW: There are seven species of sea turtles in the world: loggerheads, green turtles, leatherbacks, hawksbills, Kemp’s ridleys, olive ridleys and flatbacks.

On Anna Maria Island, we mostly have loggerheads nesting on our beaches and sometimes a couple of green turtle nests.

And, lastly, beachgoers can understand that fireworks will send birds into panic flights, expending crucial energy reserves.

Photo: courtesy Bill Booher

Litter, including plastic cups and spent sparklers, is left on the beach in Anna maria following a Fourth of July celebration. Islander File Photo

Be stealthy for snook, trout success, while tarpon bite lingers

By capt. danny Stasny Islander Reporter

Despite water temperatures in the high 80s and frequent thunderstorms releasing high volumes of rainfall, the waters of southern Tampa Bay and the entrance to the Manatee River are quite clear, yielding excellent action on spotted seatrout and catch-andrelease snook.

Stasny

Your best opportunities to take advantage of these clear water scenarios are to fish the big incoming tides during the mornings. Clean, clear water from the Gulf of Mexico flows into the backcountry on the big tides, triggering trout and snook to feed as opportunities to grab an easy meal present themselves.

Remember, in these clear waters, you’ll want to employ stealth, which can be achieved by scaling down your leader and hook sizes. I recommend trying 20-pound fluorocarbon with a No. 1 one hook for best results.

For trout fishing, this setup is perfect. If you’re snook fishing, keep an eye on that section of leader above the hook, because it can get frayed from the fish’s bite. You’ll want to check your leader after every catch and, if it’s frayed, snip it and retie your hook.

You may think this is tedious, but using the lighter leader will yield more hookups, especially in these crystal-clear waters.

If you’re in a school of large snook, you might opt to bump the leader to 30 pound and maybe use a 1/0 hook for added insurance. Everyone who targets linesiders knows that the large fish don’t bite often but, if they do, you don’t want to lose one because your leader was too light. If you’re on the average 20- to 26-inch fish, that 20-pound leader should work just fine.

Don’t forget to handle catch-and-release snook gently because catching them in such warm water can be stressful. Try to revive the fish boatside as long as you can until they’re ready to swim away. The same applies with trout. In fact, the trout are more delicate than the snook. So handle with care.

TideWatch

By Lisa neff

Red tide not reported

Red tide was not reported in the Manatee County area the week ending June 22.

For more information, go to the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission site at myfwc.com/ research/redtide/statewide/.

are causing the snook bite to be slightly more sporadicly than along the Gulf beaches.

Capt. David White is finding action on tarpon despite a lesser quantity of fish inhabiting the shorelines off Anna Maria Island. Casting live crabs during early morning and late evening tides is producing the best action for White’s sport fishers. During daylight hours using live threadfin herring is getting the job done.

Further in the Gulf, White is finding mangrove snapper around structure in 30-40 feet of water. Live shiners or small pinfish, combined with a weighted rig are working as bait. Finally, on the flats, White is focusing on snook, redfish and spotted seatrout. His anglers are finding trout the most frequent bite, while redfish and snook require more patience.

Capt. Johnny Mattay also is finding success for charter fishers by working offshore.

American red snapper are dominating the bite, making limits attainable in quick fashion. Mattay says he’s employing a variety of ways, including free-lining cut sardines on a jighead or bottom fishing with live and frozen baits for optimum hookups.

Red grouper are present in these areas and remain in season until July 1.

Mattay adds, although not a regular occurrence, he’s seeing mahi swim by the boat on his recent offshore charters. Free-lined live shiners are being devoured as these high-speed predators surround the boat.

On my Just Reel charters, the trout bite is staying strong for another week. Fishing depths of 4-10 feet of water with lush grass on the bottom yields limit of spotted seatrout on most morning incoming tides.

I will say that after the full moon, I’m seeing larger colonies of smaller trout of 13-14 inches than large trout in the 20-plus inch range, but determined anglers are putting their limit together in short order.

Mixed in with the trout are mackerel and ladyfish, as well as a few early season mangrove snapper.

After trout fishing, I’m going looking to hook up with some snook. Fishing the beaches and passes produces decent numbers of fish. Fishing the flats around mangroves produces a bite, although hot water temps

Snapper fishing for yellowtail and mangrove snapper is also good when offshore where wrecks and hard bottom are present.

Slightly close to shore, the nearshore bite is producing good action in depths of 4-60 feet. Mangrove snapper fishing is as good as it gets with an occasional gag grouper interrupting the snapper bite.

Lastly, inshore fishing yields good action for Mattay’s charters on redfish, trout and catch-and-release snook and there are still tarpon to be chased around out there, adds Mattay.

Send high-resolution photos and fishing reports to fish@islander.org.

A close up look at the parallel flipper marks of a green sea turtle track. When beachgoers leave clean beaches, AmItW can more readily identify turtle tracks in the morning. Islander Photo: courtesy Kristen mazzarella

Jeremy Westmaas holds onto his trophy catch June 10 with backup from his father, Harvey. they were visiting the Anna maria Island area from grand Rapids, michigan, where Harvey owns a large electric company and books tarpon trips with family and employees. Islander Photo: ellis Ward

ellis Ward, a full-time fishing guide and photographer in Johnson city, tennessee, books his tarpon time with capt. david White during the full moon in June to catch photos at the height of the silver king migration in tampa Bay. Islander Photo: ellis Ward

Sports action this week spans center court, links, pits

By Kevin P. Cassidy Islander Reporter

Playoff action in the adult 3-v-3 basketball league at the Center of Anna Maria Island took center stage in the gymnasium with two “play-in” games June 18 and first-round action June 19.

No. 7 seed Slicker’s Eatery tipped off against No. 10 Edible Cookie Dough Cafe and came out 20-16, 23-8, 17-13 to advance to the quarterfinals, where they will match up with No. 2 Moss Builders.

Zack Price paced Slicker’s with 28 points, while Jaden Grant chipped in 16 points.

Cassidy

Kiatrell Zachary scored 18 points for Edible Cookie Dough and Dallas Buchholtz added 11 points.

No. 9 Primetime Lending pulled off a minor upset over No. 8 Salty Printing 22-11, 24-22, 8-21 to advance to the quarterfinals where they will face off against No. 1 Slim’s Place.

Octavious Cole scored 26 points and Tim Holly scored 16 to lead Primetime Lending in the victory.

Joy Vigil scored 26 points while Paul Hamilton and Andy Szabo each finished with 14 points for Salty Printing in the losses.

Quarterfinal action June 19 got started with Slim’s sweeping No. 9 Primetime Lending 22-3, 18-14 to advance to the June 26 semifinals.

Michael Lidge scored 14 points and Corey Jaques added 13 points to lead Slim’s to victory.

Dionte Deberry had 10 points for Primetime in the loss.

No. 4 Luxury Services swept past No. 5 Bradenton Home Inspections 14-11, 22-15 to stay alive in the season-ending playoffs. Wes Jackson led all scorers with 20 points, while Chase Richardson and Kevin Roman each added 7 points for Luxury Services in the

Halting an operation

A u.S. Coast Guard Station Cortez law enforcement crew june 19 terminated an illegal charter operating on the Intracoastal Waterway near Anna Maria Island. The 24-foot pontoon was carrying nine passengers without the required Coast Guard-issued Merchant Mariner credential and a valid certificate of inspection, according to a news release. The vessel also lacked sufficient life jackets. The charter was deemed illegal and escorted to the Coquina north Boat Ramp in Bradenton Beach. Illegal charters can result in civil penalties exceeding $60,000. The Coast Guard did not identify the operator.

Islander Courtesy Photo

Tom Farrington and Tim Sofran team up to win the june 21 horseshoe games at the Anna Maria City Hall pits. For Sofran, it was his second trip of the week to the winner’s circle. Islander Photo: Courtesy AMI Pitchers

victories.

Tommy Gish scored 19 points to carry the offensive load for Bradenton Home Inspections.

No. 7 Slicker’s Eatery upset No. 2 Moss Builders 21-16, 12-21, 14-11 to continue its recent string of

upset victories. Zack Price paced Slicker’s with 27 points and Cody Calkins added 17 points to the scoring.

Connor Morse scored 23 points for Moss Builders, which also received 15 points from Jon Moss in the losses.

The last games of the evening saw No. 3 Solid Rock Construction sweep No. 6 Coaster Continent 21-11, 18-14 behind 13 points from Mark Long and 12 points from Zack Long.

AJ Poole scored 13 points and Olvin Izquierdo added 10 points for Coaster Continent in the losses.

Semifinal action resumes Thursday, June 26, with No. 1 Slim’s Place taking on No. 4 Luxury Services at 6 p.m. followed by No. 3 seed Solid Rock Construction taking on No. 7 seed Slicker’s Eatery at 6:45 p.m.

The winners will meet in the championship game at 8 p.m.

Key Royale golf news

Members saw a full week of regular golf action at the Key Royale Club in Holmes Beach starting with the June 16 men’s modified-Stableford system match.

Ed Harrell finished on top of a tight leader board with a score of plus-3, a point ahead of Dave Richardson, while Chuck Patrick was alone in third place at plus-1.

The women played a nine-hole individual-low-net match June 17 that saw Jana Samuels earn clubhouse bragging rights for the day with a 2-under-par 30, a stroke ahead of second-place finisher Helen Pollock. Sue Wheeler took third with a 3-over-par 35.

Members played a nine-hole scramble June 19 to close out the week of golf. The team of Mike Clements, John Kolojeski and Terry Schaefer combined on a 1-under-par 31 that was matched by the team of Chuck Patrick, Dave Richardson and Deb Richardson and also matched by the team of Bill MacMillan, Charlie Porter and Gary Razze for a three-way tie for first place.

Horseshoe action

Horseshoe action June 18 saw two teams emerge from pool play with 3-0 records and settle things in the finals. Tim Sofran defeated Tom Farrington and Bob Heiger 21-16 to win the day’s proceedings.

Sofran was back in the mix during the June 21 games, this time with Farrington as they forged the lone 3-0 record and were the day’s outright champs.

The action gets started at 9 a.m. Wednesdays and Saturdays at the Anna Maria City Hall pits. Warmups begin at 8:45 a.m., followed by random team selection.

There is no charge to play and everyone is welcome.

We speak bagel, egg-el, breakfast muffins, lunch salads, platters, sandwiches... and more!

PARADISE BAGELS CAFE & CATERING 3220 E. Bay Drive, Anna Maria Centre Shops 941-779-1212

The Islander newspaper is FREE at Publix Holmes Beach. Just stop by the customer service desk, hold out your hand and say, “Islander, please!” And maybe remind staff you’d like the serve-yourself community news returned to the lobby.

By Lisa Neff

‘Jaws’ golden jubilee

I remember a shelf in the living room of my childhood home that held some pottery and two paperback books.

This was the out-of-reach shelf, unless a kid stood on the arm of a couch, leaned toward the shelf and stretched out her arms.

Why did my mom put those books up high?

You can imagine why 10-yearold me wanted to get my hands on William Blatty’s “The Exorcist” and Peter Benchley’s “Jaws.”

I’d heard whispers about the horror movie based on “The Exorcist” but knew nothing about “Jaws” when I pulled both paperbacks from the shelf and snuck them into my bedroom for nighttime reading and sleepless nights.

I wouldn’t see “The Exorcist” fi lm until many

Resources for hurricane season

One way to stay up to date is to search for hashtags for a storm — like #TSAndrea or #HurricaneBarry — on social media.

Additionally, the National Hurricane Center provides updates on X via @NWSNHC and @NHC_Atlantic.

The National Weather Service informs via @NWS and, for local info, via @NWSTampaBay.

A favorite Facebook follow: ABC Action News chief meteorologist Denis Phillips at @denisphillipsweatherman.

Government websites to bookmark include: Manatee County: mymanatee.org. Florida: floridadisaster.org. Federal: fema.gov.

For news: islander.org.

— Lisa neff

“jaws,” the movie that established the summer blockbuster and kept movie-going audiences out of the water in 1975, was rereleased this month by universal in a 50th anniversary edition in 4K ultra HD, Blu-ray and digital formats. The package includes a documentary about the making of the movie and its legacy, deleted scenes, outtakes, on-set footage and the film. Islander Photo: Courtesy universal

years later, but I only waited a year to see Steven Spielberg’s “Jaws” on the big screen. I went to downtown Waukegan with a couple of neighborhood kids and we slipped into the Academy theater through an alley door left ajar for smokers.

I was 11 years old and “Jaws” was my first adult movie. I’m not only referring to seeing brief nudity and a joint. And I’m not only referring to the blood and guts spilled and the terror of that shark with the “lifeless eyes, black eyes, like a doll’s eyes.” I’m also referring to the human greed, fear, bureaucracy, corruption that Chief Martin Brody challenged.

“Jaws” arrived in movie theaters 50 years ago — June 20, 1975 — in time for the Fourth of July, a time

in the United States when so many “beaches are open and people are having a wonderful time,” as Amity Mayor Larry Vaughn said.

In the age of streaming, I don’t think I’ve passed a Fourth without watching “Jaws.”

It seems easy to remember to watch living here.

The film seems to resonate with people on AMI. Maybe people see a bit of Amity in Anna Maria. Maybe we connect being on an island with sharks in surrounding waters. Maybe we think more often about human encroachment and nature’s revenge — or maybe not.

Whatever the reason, I do sense that islanders relate to “Jaws,” appreciate the movie now in its golden jubilee year and strive to be like Brody.

Volunteers called to Coquina Beach to plant sea oats

In the year-round effort to strengthen Manatee County’s coast — a first line of defense against storms and erosion — Keep Manatee Beautiful is calling for 300 volunteers to join its largest-ever sea oat planting and sand dune restoration effort.

The event will begin at 7 a.m. Saturday, July 26, at Coquina Beach in Bradenton Beach.

KMB wants to plant 12,000 sea oats before the peak of hurricane season to restore and fortify the dunes along Anna Maria Island’s coastline.

“Sand dunes and sea oats are the island’s natural armor,” Jennifer Hoffman, KMB executive director, said in a news release. “They absorb wind, they block surf, they reduce flooding. With hurricane season intensifying each year, we need to take action now. We hope no storms will come our way, but if they do these plugs will be seeded and strong by the time peak season rolls around in August and September.”

KMB’s partners include the Anna Maria Island Garden Club, the cities of Holmes Beach and Bradenton Beach and the Bradenton Area Convention and

Volunteers will meet in the beach parking lot near the southern tip of the island.

Tools and plants will be provided but volunteers should wear closed-toe shoes and bring water, sunscreen and gloves.

“You don’t need any special skills — just a willingness to help. The results will be visible and lasting,” Hoffman said.

Community members, civic groups, businesses and student organizations are encouraged to participate and service hours and documentation can be provided to those who need it.

For more info, go to manateebeautiful.com.

About Keep Manatee Beautiful

Keep Manatee Beautiful is a nonprofit affiliate of Keep America Beautiful with a network of volunteers working to reduce littering and promote recycling and beautification.

— Lisa neff

Visitors Bureau.

Booking for Bayfest

The Anna Maria Island Chamber of Commerce is taking applications for sponsors and vendors at its annual island celebration of friends, music, food and fun — Bayfest — set for 10 a.m.-9 p.m. Saturday, Oct. 18, on Pine Avenue in Anna Maria.

A notice from the chamber said vendors must supply tents and tables.

The notice also contained some advice:

• Keep menus simple — limit the number of food items, make them easy to prepare and also easy to eat.

• There’s no ticketing system. Customers pay cash or credit at the stand. So bring plenty of bank change.

• Electricity is provided to food vendors for up to three items and 110 voltage.

• Food handlers must display their license.

• Arrive early because vehicle access is prohibited after 8:30 a.m.

• Bayfest is a rain-or-shine event.

The cost for space is $250 for food vendors and $200-$150 for retail vendors, including artists. Nonprofits can reserve free space.

Sponsorships cost $550-$300.

Application links can be found at amichamber. org.

For more information, call the chamber at 941778-1541.

— Lisa neff

Becky Smith, Wagner branch manager for the AMI and Longboat Key offices, center, cuts a ribbon for the june 17 opening of the new island office at the Anna Maria Island Centre shopping plaza, 3226 e. Bay Drive, Holmes Beach. Islander

Photo: Bonner joy

Sweet news

Last fall, the small island town that Small Town Creamery calls home got hit hard by hurricanes Helene and Milton.

So many months after the storms, the Holmes Beach ice cream shop reopened.

“WE ARE OPENED!!,” Denny and Max Miller, dad and son owner/operators, posted June 6. “Hurricane Helene wasn’t stopping us.”

Dozens responded with congratulations and hurrahs, as well as promises to visit for “best ice cream and fudge on the island.”

The shop timed its return for the grand reopening at the Island Shopping Center.

Small Town Creamery is at 5404 Marina Drive, Holmes Beach.

For more information, call 941-213-9107 or go online to smalltowncreamery.com.

— Lisa neff

Business news Do you celebrate achievements? Maybe you’re new in business? Perhaps you’re expanding? Or reopened after recovering from the storms? Email tips to news@islander.org.

        

adaptability. Thank you for taking a chance with us! — The Grooms Team

85 more …

Wagner Realty’s former island office in Bradenton Beach, in operation for more than 85 years, was demolished by the 2024 hurricanes.

“We’re excited about the next 85 years for Wagner as one of the oldest businesses — if not the oldest — on the island,” branch manager Becky Smith said of the new office. Light bites were served as agents celebrated the new office with members of the Anna Maria Island Chamber of Commerce.

Slice of paradise

Pizza Social AMI celebrated an anniversary in mid-June.

The Pine Avenue place known for handcrafted pizza pies posted on social media: “What an AMAZING 5 years. The ups, the downs, COVID, hurricanes. We’ve been through it all and have experienced the love of an island community that reminds us there is no other place we would want to do this. Thank you to all who have come through to say hello and have pizza in paradise.”

Pizza Social is at 308 Pine Ave., Anna Maria. For more information, go online to mypizzasocial. com or call 941-251-4070.

— Lisa neff

BizCal

By Lisa neff

THIS WEEK

Thursday, June 26

5-7 p.m. — Anna Maria Island Chamber of Commerce business card exchange, Artists’ Guild Gallery, 5414 Marina Drive, Holmes Beach. Fee applies. Info: 941-778-1541, terri@amichamber.org.

SAVE THE DATE

• July 8, 8 a.m., AMI Chamber breakfast, Compass Hotel Anna Maria Sound, Perico Island.

• July 10, 11:30 a.m., AMI Chamber luncheon, Slicker’s Eatery, Cortez.

• Oct. 18, 10 a.m.-9 p.m., AMI Chamber Bayfest, Anna Maria. Send listings to calendar@islander.org.

MIKE NORMAN REALTY EST. 1978

For professional real estate needs, call a TRUE ISLAND NATIVE, born and raised on AMI, selling the “Island Dream” for over 25 years, right here with her family.

Tourist council backs marketing strategy

The Manatee County Tourist Development Council got behind a marketing strategy and funding requests for the Bradenton Area Convention and Visitors Bureau.

BACVB executive director Elliott Falcione presented the plan during a June 16 meeting of the advisory council at the Center of Anna Maria Island in Anna Maria.

With the council’s unanimous vote to recommend the plan, the budget proposal goes before county commissioners, probably after their summer break.

“We’re not out there casting nets trying to grab anybody and everybody,” Falcione said of the plan.

The strategy is to:

• “Maintain repeat visitation while growing awareness among new, qualified travelers across key U.S. regions.”

• Highlight “crystal blue waters, sugar-white sand beaches, relaxed, low-rise coastline.”

• Target women ages 35-54, families with household incomes of $125,000 or more and multi-generational travelers.

• Focus on domestic travelers from the Northeast, Southeast, Midwest and Texas.

• Reach international travelers in the United Kingdom, Germany, Austria, Switzerland, the Netherlands and Scandinavia.

• Promote the area with Google ads, fam trips for journalists, ads in Visit Florida guides and on major travel websites.

The proposed marketing plan budget — to be funded with the tourist development tax — for fiscal 2026 is $10,715,661 and the proposed budget for 2027 is $9,048,994. The current budget is $11,381,117.

The proposed budgets include money for domestic and international marketing, community partnerships, sponsorships, arts and culture efforts and chamber initiatives.

— Lisa neff

New to the fleet

Capt. Lance Plowman stands june 9 aboard the Kingpin, the Florida Fishing Fleet’s newest vessel. The Kingpin is a 50-foot Yank charter boat designed for offshore fishing and offering room for up to 25 passengers. The family-owned business in Cortez operates four vessels. Plowman said half-day trips on the Kingpin will start at $99. He added that the expansion was made possible by the availability of new dock space at Tide Tables restaurant in Cortez. For more information, contact the business at 941-795-6969. Islander Courtesy

WastePro recognized

Waste Pro employees stand june 17 alongside Holmes Beach officials — Mayor judy Titsworth, City Commissioners Dan Diggins and Terry Schaefer, in the back row — under Veterans Pavilion near city hall, 5801 Marina Drive. City officials and staff presented employees of the waste removal company with certificates of appreciation in recognition of their work removing waste. Islander

Photo

Photo:

Courtesy Capt. Scott Moore

I S L A N D E R C L A S S I F I E D S

ITEMS FOR SALE

STuDIO APARTMenT FuRnISHInGS: For sale, nightstands, bar stools, upholstered bench, dresser. 970-556-0596.

A n TIQ ue PART ne R D e SK: All wood, $500. Inquire at 941-778-7978.

FREEBIE ITEMS FOR SALE

Individuals may place one free ad with up to three items, each priced $100 or less, 15 words or less. FRee, one week, must be submitted online. email classifieds@islander.org. (limited time offer).

ANNOUNCEMENTS

neW BeACH SHOP: Stop by our new store 3-9 p.m. daily. everything’s just Beachy. Affordable beach apparel and accessories for the whole family. Mention this ad for $5 off $20 or above purchase. 119 Bridge Street Island Plaza, suite 230 (upstairs).

FATKIDS ARMORY: BuY, sale, trade firearms and transfers. FatkidsArmory@gmail.com. 941-8403818.

TRANSPORTATION

GOLF CART R en TALS: Fun for residents and tourists! 941-213-5730. www.annamariacartrentals.com

BOATS & BOATING

HAVe A BOAT and wanna catch more fish, better bait or learn the water? 50-year local fisherman, your boat, my knowledge. Captain Chris, 941896-2915.

SunCOAST BOTTOM PAInTInG: Professional bottom painting. Mobile. Call 941-704-9382.

CAPTAI n FOR HIR e and boat caretaker services: If you need help with your boat on or off the water, call Captain Dan. uSCG, retired. 772486-8085.

MORe ADS = more readers in The Islander.

BOATS & BOATING Continued

WeLCOMe ABOARD jOYFISH Charters for private fishing, sunset cruises, and dolphin watching. Check out joyfishcharters.com or follow us on Facebook. Call to reserve, 941-840-3181.

FOR SALe: 35 Bristol sailboat, Yanmar diesel, new shaft, cutless, log, prop and bottom job, 2024. $12,000. Located on Holmes Beach ready to sail. Bill, 302-494-4096.

HELP WANTED

ROS e R CH u RCH S ee KS part-time Assistant Facilities Administrator to cover Friday to Sunday and special events. Read the job description RoserChurch.com/job-opportunity

n OW HIRI n G HA n DYMA n : Full-time professional services. $18 an hour and up, based on experience. Call jayPros, 941-962-2874.

RePORTeR WAnTeD: Full- to part-time. Apply via email with letter of interest to news@islander. org.

KIDS FOR HIRE

KIDS FOR HIR e ads are FR ee for up to three weeks for Island youths under 16 looking for work. Ads must be placed in person at The Islander office, 315 58th St. Suite j , Holmes Beach.

SERVICES

IS YOuR HOMe or office in need of some cleaning? Well, I’m your girl! Local, reliable, professional! Please, give me a call or text, 941-773 -0461.

CLeAnInG: VACATIOn, COnSTRuCTIOn, residential, commercial and windows. Licensed and insured. 941-756-4570.

PReSSuRe WASHInG, PAVeR sealing, driveway, roof, fence, pool area. Also, window cleaning. Licensed and insured. 941-565-3931.

BICYCLe RePAIRS: just4Fun at 5358 Gulf Drive can do most any bicycle repair at a reasonable cost. Pick-up and delivery available. 941-8967884.

API’S DRYWALL RePAIR: I look forward to servicing your drywall repair needs. Call 941-5248067 to schedule an appointment.

PC OR TeCH issues? not sure where to start? With years of experience, I’ll come to you with reliable solutions. Contact Gavin at 928-5871309. www.gse.codes

SARASOTA PAInTInG: InTeRIOR/exterior/cabinets: Call or text Don, 941-900-9398. Free estimates. Fully insured, twenty years’ experience.

RIDeeASY 247 YOuR professional, reliable and courteous car service to airports and events since 2015. You can reach us via text 941-4477737 or email to mrfort5001@gmail.com We are available 24/7.

LOOK n O MOR e ! Residential, vacation rental and commercial cleaning. Give us a call, 941250-8548.

OuR SeRVICeS: CLeAnInG, home repairs, tile, concrete, remodeling, decks, steps, flooring, water drainage solutions, rental 24-hour services. Hurricane shutters and pre-storm service. new, low-cost generator and insulation (starts and runs on propane when power off). no permits needed. Islander, over 40 years here! Call 941404-9163.

GOT DIRTY WInDOWS? Free estimates/insured. Five-star customer service rating. “We want to earn your business. Downeast Window Cleaning, 207-852-6163.

SERVICES Continued

IS YOuR POOL deck, driveway, or garage floor looking worn out and dated? Bring them back to life with our top-tier resurfacing services! Services offered: Pool deck resurfacing, Slip-resistant, cool-to-the-touch finishes that enhance safety and aesthetics. Driveway resurfacing, durable surfaces that stand up to heavy traffic and harsh weather. Garage floor resurfacing, easy-to-clean, stain-resistant surfaces that look great and perform even better. Don’t wait! Transform your spaces today with our trusted resurfacing services. Contact us now for a free consultation and estimate. Call u Plus Me LLC at 727-623-5050 or visit u-plus-me.com

AIRPORT SHuTTLe: QuALITY transportation, 10 years by Lewber. 352-339-3478.

LOOKInG FOR SOMeOne who needs me: Clean, house-sit. I can cook, make sandwiches. I can do anything you can do but better! I can run to the grocery store for you. I can walk pets or go out to lunch with you. Looking for a part-time job caregiving companion, I am your right arm! I love people and I love helping others. I have references and I’m reliable and dependable. My name is Dena Gray a.k.a. Sparkles! 941-524-2234.

I n -HOM e S u PPORT: 26-plus years’ experience. Tammy Roberts, 941-580-4440.

ACHAuFFeR4u FOR TRAnSPORTATIOn anywhere in Florida. Properly insured and over 40 years in Bradenton. Dennis, 941-812-5930.

O ne CALL CL e A nu P. j unk removal, water damage, and more. Fast, reliable service. Call, 941-544-1260.

neeD A RIDe to the airports? Service to Tampa, St. Pete or SRQ. Call Gary at 863-409-5875.

HOMe WATCHeR: WHen you can’t be at home, I’ll watch your home and send video of my inspection. I’m a State Certified Residential Appraiser with background check. 317-997-4056.

AFFORDABLe PReSSuRe WASHInG and small job painting. 941-356-1456.

AMI AIRPORT SH u TTL e Guy: We pick up from Tampa, St. Petersburg and Sarasota airports. u p to seven passengers with luggage Reliable, Licensed and friendly transportation to and from Anna Maria Island. AMIShuttle.com. 941-500-3388.

CLeAnInG SeRVICeS: Ten-plus years’ experience. Professional, prompt with a flexible schedule. Contact jessica, 941-900-8051.

nOn-TOXIC CLeAnInG services for your home/ business! e venings/weekends. Reliable and detailed. Lauren, 770-864-2940.

BuSIneSS-TO-BuSIneSS jD’s Window Cleaning looking for storefront jobs in Holmes Beach. I make dirty windows sparkling clean. 941-9203840.

BeACH SeRVICe air conditioning, heat, refrigeration. Commercial and residential service, repair and/or replacement. Serving Manatee County and the Island since 1987. For dependable, honest and personalized service, call Bill eller, 941-720-7411. Residential, call nate, 941-5242248. CAC184228.

CLeAn TeCH MOBILe Detailing. At your location. Cars, boats, RVs. Call or text Billie for an appointment. 941-592-3482.

LOOKInG FOR An eARLY BIRD? You can read Wednesday’s classifieds on Tuesday at islander.org. And it’s FRee!

LAWN & GARDEN

COnnIe’S LAnDSCAPInG InC. Residential and commercial. Full-service lawn maintenance, landscaping, cleanups, hauling and more! Insured. 941-713-1965.

COLLInS LAnDSCAPe LIGHTInG: Outdoor lighting, landscaping, irrigation services and maintenance. 941-279-9947. MjC24373@gmail.com

SHeLL DeLIVeReD AnD spread. Hauling all kinds of gravel, mulch, topsoil with free estimates. Call Larry at 941-795-7775, or “shell phone” 941-7200770.

HOME IMPROVEMENT

VAn-GO PAInTInG residential/commercial, interior/exterior, pressure cleaning, wallpaper. Island references. Bill, 941-795-5100. www.vangopainting.net.

GRIFFIn’S HOMe IMPROVeMenTS Inc. Handyman, fine woodwork, countertops, cabinets and wood flooring. Insured and licensed. 941-7228792.

LAne’S SCReenInG SeRVICeS: Replace your window, door or lanai screens. Many screen options available. Retired veteran serving our community! Free estimates, call 941-705-5293.

LOOKInG FOR AnY home improvement? jRCC Home Improvement, handyman service can get the job done. Please, contact us at 413-2462410. We would love to help.

TILe-TILe-TILe: All variations of ceramic tile supplied and installed. Quality workmanship, prompt, reliable, many Island references. Call Ashdown Flooring, 941-726-3077.

DOnALD PeRKInS PAInTInG LLC. Interior/exterior/pressure washing. Island references. dperkinspaint@hotmail.com. 941-705-7096.

GORILLA DRYWALL R e PAIR LLC. Let’s solve your drywall problems together. Give us a call at 941-286-0607.

Queen Bee PAInTInG: “We Do It Royally.” Interior/exterior painting and pressure washing, pool decks, garage floors, cabinets, popcorn ceiling and wallpaper removal, drywall, door and trim install and repair, window cleaning. Sheryl, 864884-3380.

TeTI TILe: 40 years’ experience in Delaware, now on AMI and surrounds. Tile, marble, murals. Free estimates. Call john Teti, 302-983-5774.

TRue TOne PAInTInG: Painting, power washing, epoxy floors. 941-224-4020.

CALL HYDRO CL e A n . Full-service pressure washing, sealing. Pavers, travertine and natural stone. Window washing too, up to three stories. Call jacob, 941-920-2094.

ISLAnD HAnDYMAn: I live here, work here, value your referral. Refinish, paint. just ask. jayPros. Licensed/insured. References. Call jay, 941-9622874.

I SLA n D e R ARCHIV e. u ofF Florida digital newspaper collection at

RENTALS

AnnA MARIA GuLF beachfront vacation rentals. One- two- and three-bedroom units, all beachfront. www.amiparadise.com. 941-778-3143.

AVAILABLe nOW AnD season: 1BR/1BA, sevennight minimum. carlesvacationrentals.com Special rates are available. 941-807-1405.

PeRICO ISLAnD PATIO home: 3BR/2BA, privacy wall/gate, two-car garage, single floor, high ceilings, screened lanai. Call or text Alison, 859-7716423.

2026 SeASOnAL RenTAL: just one block from the beach, Single-story 2BR/2BA private residence, screened patio. n o smoking/no pets. December-April. 64th Street, Holmes Beach. Call 813-833-4926.

C en TRAL HOLM e S B e ACH, 3BR/2BA completely remodeled, walk to beach, school, trolley, shopping. Annual, $2,595/month. 941-7136743.

AVAILABL e n OW! A nnu AL rental. Beautiful, bright renovated condo 2BR/2BA, one floor. Perico Bay Club, pool, hot tub, tennis, pickle ball, covered parking. $2,500/ month. Call 612-802-8357.

P e RICO BAY CL u B 2BR/2BA condo for rent. Annual, $2,500/month or seasonal, $4,500/ month. Call our office, 941-778-1979 for more information.

RAR e A nnu AL R en TAL in Holmes Beach! 2BR/1BA close to the beach access. $2,975/ month. Call the office for more information, 941778-1979.

AnnuAL RenTAL: 1BR/1BA Recently renovated, quiet street in Holmes Beach. Steps to a public beach access in Holmes Beach. $2,200/month. First, last and security. 941-807-1405.

2BR/1.5BA uPDATeD WITH washer/dryer. $2,300 month. 406 71st St. B, Holmes Beach. 2BR/1BA house with garage, $1,750 month. 12016 45th Ave., Cortez Village. Mike norman Realty, 941778-6696.

VACATIO n TOW n HO u S e : 2BR/2BA includes boat dock, pool, convenient location. $900/ weekly. Real estate Mart, 941-356-1456.

2BR/2BA S e CO n D FLOOR condo with pool available in Holmes Beach. Available for 2025/26 season beginning n ovember 2025. Call j ack, 312-835-2323 for more details and link to site with pictures and details.

The Islander offers the best results for your classified advertising dollar. We really work for you! Submit your ad no later than 11 a.m. Monday on the website, islander.org. For Monday holidays, the deadline is Friday.

REAL ESTATE

WI nn I e MCHAL e , R e ALTOR, 941-504-6146. Dalton Wade Real estate. You need an aggressive and experienced Realtor in today’s market! Selling island homes, Sarasota and Bradenton areas. Multi-million-dollar producer! “Selling HomesMaking Dreams Come True.”

WAT e RFRO n T 3BR/2BA MA nu FACT u R e D home with ample parking for boat/RV and two cars. Screened-in lanai for enjoying sunsets. Steps away from Parrott Cove Marina and free boat launch. Sunny Shores beach nearby and easy walk or bike ride to Anna Maria Island. Awaiting new owner to complete drywall and decorative flooring. You own the land. Sunny Shores, a friendly community with voluntary homeowners’ association that provides access to clubhouse and park amenities. Ideal vacation home or rental property. Asking price, $250,000. Call 847-436-0938 for more information or tour of home.

LARGe VACAnT LOT on north end. 132 Crescent Ave, Anna Maria. 7,700 sf lot cleared and ready for your plans/builder. Close proximity to Pine Avenue shops and beaches. Optional HOA ($200 annually) gives dock access for kayak/fishing. upper floors of new build and skydeck would have water views of Lake Lavista and Tampa Bay/Skyway bridge. $1,175,000. Call 630-8633845.

WeST BRADenTOn: 3BR/3BA, two-car garage. Features very private caged pool, private side yard for RV or boat storage, dog run or play yard. Brand new $25,000 roof, no HOA fees. $479,900 or best offer. Real estate Mart, 941-356-1456.

LOnGBOAT KeY nORTH end village. Coming soon. Brand new 3BR/2BA home to be built. Call Fred for information. Real estate Mart, 941-3561456.

OPen HOuSe: 10 a.m.- 1 p.m. Friday, july 4. 3BR/3BA Gulffront. 5200 Gulf Drive, Holmes Beach. noranne Hutcheson, 941-932-0738. Re/ MAX Alliance.