First responders work in a swift current under the Longboat Pass Bridge July 15 to secure a safety line to a piling during a training exercise led by Team Blacksheep TRT. A Manatee County Beach Patrol team and other agencies gathered the week of July 14 at Coquina Beach in Bradenton Beach for training in swiftwater rescue situations. More, page 7. Islander Photo:
Zoe Lander, a senior Girl Scout with Troop 574, builds a “Take a Toy, Leave a Toy” box for placement on the Holmes Beach shore as her Gold Award project. A Gold Award is the highest honor in Girl Scouts and is given to scouts who complete a project that tackles community issues, such as plastic waste on beaches. Islander Photos: Courtesy Holmes Beach
By Robert Anderson Islander Reporter
Bradenton Beach commissioners on July 17 took a step toward the regulation of commercial cabanas on public beaches as they voiced a range of concerns — from safety and environmental impacts to enforcement challenges.
City attorney Ricinda Perry foated possible suggestions for regulations, including requiring vendors to obtain commercial beach use permits, limiting where and when vendors can set up equipment and imposing penalties for violations.
Perry suggested commissioners consider requiring site plans, liability insurance and a storm response plan.
Commissioners have agreed that unregulated commercial beach setups are problematic, especially the staging of promotional cabanas that are not yet rented.
“I don’t have a problem with them setting up a tent that someone called and said, ‘Please, bring me out some shade,’” Commissioner Ralph Cole said. “But to go out there and set six or seven up in a row with their advertisement on it ... the beach is kind of like a
By Ryan Paice Islander Reporter
Amy L. Waterbury of Bradenton wins the second week of the Top Notch photo contest with this image that captures the moment July 16 at Coquina Beach in Bradenton Beach. The photographer will be entered into the finals, which offers a grand prize of $100 from The Islander and gift certificates from Islander advertisers.
Nine-10 months after hurricanes Helene and Milton devastated the island, Anna Maria’s business community is making headway.
But it’s not back to full strength yet.
Darcie Duncan, owner of Duncan Real Estate, told The Islander July 17 that the company was set to return to its main offce at 310 Pine Ave. by July 25. The company buys and sells property on the island, as well as operates a roster of vacation rentals.
While Duncan was at the head of community recovery efforts following last year’s storms, her company’s return to its Pine Avenue offce has been a slow one.
The storms left both that offce and Duncan’s fex offce on Marina Drive in Holmes Beach with extensive food
Anna Maria Mayor Mark Short emailed The Islander July 18 saying news from the northernmost city on Anna Maria Island is slow.
“Big focus this week has been on the budget for next fiscal year, as well as updating our analysis on where we see the current fiscal year ending. Otherwise it’s been a business-as-usual kind of week for us,” he wrote.
July 19 brought a conversation about the Rod & Reel Pier, which washed out and blew away with hurricanes Helene and Milton in 2024.
Now some parking at 875 N. Shore Drive is cordoned off.
Short confirmed that the city portion of the lot, an extension of Alamanda Road adjacent to the Rod and Reel Motel, is open.
Shifting focus to Holmes Beach, Mayor Judy Titsworth told The Islander in a July 19 text message that her focus has been on the budget, a meeting to set the max millage for 2025-26 and discussion on a proposed stormwater tax hike. The meeting was moved from a July 22 time slot to July 25 to put together more info on the stormwater proposal.
Meanwhile, Titsworth is spending her “down” time putting her house back together after almost renovation due to damages from the hurricanes and her “on” time working with staff on a birthday bash to celebrate the city’s 75 years since its incorporation.
The big event is being planned for Dec. 5.
— Bonner Joy
By Robert Anderson Islander Reporter
Bradenton Beach code compliance officer Evan Harbus July 17 reported to city commissioners on resident complaints about unsightly and incomplete construction projects.
He said that prior to June 27 there were a total of 11 properties — eight with no activity and three with ongoing but slow construction progress.
Most of those properties were under the same ownership, according to Harbus, who did not provide the owner’s name, and some had recently undergone general contractor changes.
Following up on resident concerns, Harbus said he investigated and issued citations for improper maintenance under the land development code.
By July 3, following the citations, progress on the properties had begun, according to Harbus.
Issues such as stagnant pools, unfenced properties, missing dumpsters, broken silt fences and overgrown weeds were addressed.
“We have been getting progressive action and everything is now moving forward with these properties,” Harbus said.
“Residents that did make those complaints … were quite happy,” he added.
Harbus has also been working to address stormdamaged homes.
“We actually have had 33 demoed homes already within Bradenton Beach,” he said, noting that three more are still under review.
Commissioners inquired about how long permitted construction projects can remain unfinished.
Harbus said city code allows a permit to remain open without penalty provided an inspection occurs every six months.
“We should probably have time limits of some kind,” said Commissioner Debbie Scaccianoce. “There’s got to be some incentive to finish building the house, otherwise it’s just an eyesore and a health-
safety hazard.”
Harbus said enforcement is important, but so is giving people a fair chance to comply.
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. The seats currently are held by John Lynch, Charles Salem and
By Ryan Paice Islander Reporter
A Holmes Beach commissioner is entering budget season with a wealth of public feedback.
Commission Chair Dan Diggins told The Islander July 16 about his takeaways from a town hall meeting he called at the Island Library the night prior that drew about 100 people.
Diggins said attendees July 15 had the most to say about a proposed resolution increasing stormwater assessment fees from $2.95 per 100 square feet of property to up to $9 per 100 square feet of property. While the proposed increase is meant to pay for a slate of improvements over the next f ve years, attendees expressed a lack of confdence in the effectiveness of those improvements.
“They said they don’t mind paying it if they felt like it was actually doing something, but they don’t think it’s actually doing anything,” Diggins said. “They just feel that whatever we’re doing for stormwater mitigation is not working.”
He said attendees pointed to St. Petersburg’s stormwater plan and improvements as examples of what could be done, and he agreed that the city could consider some of their solutions.
Kathleen Morgan.
As of July 16, Morgan was the only person listed as an active candidate on the Manatee County Supervisor of Elections website for AMI.
In Bradenton Beach, there will be three commission seats and the mayoral post up for election. Seats held by Mayor John Chappie and Commissioners Deborah Scaccianoce and Janet E. Vosburgh are up for two-year terms and the seat held by Commissioner Ralph Cole is
Diggins also said he wanted to explore changing the basis for stormwater fees from lot size to pervious lot coverage, since that would better ref ect a property’s impact on stormwater absorption.
There was less fuss about the potential adoption of a rollback rate of 2.1812 mills for fscal year 2025-26, according to Diggins.
The rollback rate would raise the same amount of ad valorem tax revenue as the city collected this year, $6,735,765, but would amount to a tax increase over the current 1.99 millage rate.
Overall, Diggins said he’s leaning toward keeping stormwater fees as they are and adopting the rollback rate, or less, as people continue to recover from last year’s hurricanes.
“There’s a lot of people really hurting still and I didn’t realize the extent,” Diggins said. “Just because I think I know what is going on doesn’t mean I do. So it’s important to have a lot of people talk to me.”
Diggins said he encouraged people to show up to the city commission’s next meeting at 9 a.m. Friday, July 25, at city hall, 5801 Marina Drive.
Votes on a maximum millage for fscal 2025-26 and a resolution for a potential stormwater fee increase were included in the meeting agendas.
A livestream of the meeting can be viewed on the city’s website, holmesbeachf.org.
up for a one-year term due to a prior changes in ward numbering and boundaries.
Holmes Beach’s election will include three twoterm commission seats. Steven Oelfke, Terry W. Schaefer and Carol Soustek hold the seats.
Election Day is Tuesday, Nov. 4.
For more information, go to the supervisor’s site at votemanatee.gov or call 941-741-3823.
The Islander’s Top Notch contest begins anew. The contest includes six weekly front-page winners. Each will claim an Islander “More than a mullet wrapper” T-shirt.
One weekly shot will take the grand prize in the contest, earning the photographer a $100 prize from The Islander and certifcates from local merchants. There also is a pet photo contest for weekly submissions and a winner announced in the fnal weeks. Each JPG must be included in a single email to topnotch@islander.org with the photographer’s name, address and phone number; photo date (must be since Jan. 1, 2024), and location; names of recognizable people in the photo. Look online for more rules.
— Bonner Joy
Bradenton Beach street, beach access repairs: Through October, Bradenton Beach is making hurricane-related improvements and repairs, including July 25-31, 25th Street North, beach access.
Cortez Bridge utility relocation project: Pipe installation and related activities are ongoing. People should expect the presence of work crews and 24-hour pump operation until pipe installation is complete. Construction is expected to continue through spring 2026. Regular construction activities are Monday-Friday, 7 a.m.-7 p.m. For more, email info@amiprojects. io or go to amiprojects.io.
75th Street West at Manatee Avenue West : Manatee County is working on 75th Street West from 19th Avenue West to Second Avenue West, including at the Manatee Avenue intersection. Motorists can expect delays. For more, go to mymanatee.org/75th.
— Lisa Neff
▼ 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.
AM RECOVERY CONTINUED FROM PAGE 1
damage.
The fex offce was quickly restored and reopened last November, so the company’s employees could get back to work. The restoration of that workplace allowed Duncan to spend more time rebuilding the main offce to a new and improved level. The rebuild included the addition of raised concrete foors, installation of impact windows and improved stormwater management.
The building’s square footage also was increased in the rebuild. Duncan said that extra space will make the fex offce superfuous, so it will be leased out following her company’s move back to Pine Avenue.
“Instead of just slapping it back together, we said ‘OK, we have to do it right,’” Duncan said. “We rebuilt it back right, so it took a bit longer. … It has been a process to say the least.”
Duncan said it would be an understatement to say she and her employees are excited to return to the main offce. “I am very excited to get back in,” she said. “I’m excited for all of us to be together under one roof and work together again and be cohesive as a team. We need that. So we’re all excited.”
Duncan Real Estate’s return to Pine will bring
frst-come, frst-served deal.”
Cole has operated Coastal Watersports, a beachside rental business offering sailboats, umbrellas and various watercraft, since 1982 on a stretch of beach owned frst by Tortuga Inn when it was owned by thenMayor Katie Pierola and now at Silver Surf Resort.
After the meeting, Cole shared concerns with The Islander about under-regulated businesses operating on public land. While he emphasized his support for local enterprise, he warned that without regulation, the situation could deteriorate, like in over-commercialized tourist areas of the Caribbean, where vendors walk the beaches selling goods, food, beverages and services.
Cole said there’s a difference between taxpaying vendors and “fy-by-night” operators.
Unregulated businesses “haven’t been paying their taxes, they haven’t been doing it the right way and they’re operating in an unsafe manner,” Cole said.
During the meeting, Commissioner Debbie Scaccianoce also raised safety concerns, specifcally about unattended cabanas in severe weather.
“When the weather changes, which it does on a dime here, those people just vacate those cabanas and leave the chairs and everything else laying around,” she said. Cabanas, umbrellas and other items can become projectiles. She said the city needs to ensure businesses are responsible for removing tents when the weather turns bad.
During public comment at the meeting, Peery Heldreth, owner of My Beach Concierge, defended his
the city’s business community one step closer to full strength.
Paul Foster, who owns Ginny’s and Jane E’s, 9807 Gulf Drive, with his wife, Tammy, told The Islander July 17 that they were happy to be one of the many Anna Maria businesses back in action following last year’s storms.
The cafe and retail store was closed for three months after it took on fooding so its old plywood foor and roof could be replaced. The business reopened last December and, so far through 2025, Foster said the business was having a “decent” year.
“We’re steady and that’s all we can hope for,” Foster said. “We’re thrilled that we’re open. … I feel pretty blessed, to be honest with you.”
However, not every business in the city — including one just upstairs from Ginny’s and Jane E’s — has had the same luck. Body & Sol Spa and Wellness, 9805 Gulf Drive, located on the second foor of the old IGA grocery store building owned by the Cagnina family,
company’s practices. “We never set up a tent that is not rented ahead of time,” he said. “We have a business license, liability insurance and all of our tents are securely anchored.”
Heldreth also addressed weather concerns. “We use 30-inch round stakes … same stakes they use at airport hangars to tie down Cessnas,” he said.
Heldreth agreed that cabana rental businesses should be operating under the proper licensure and regulation. “We have a business license. We have workers’ comp insurance. We have our retail sales certifcate,” he said. “I support everything this commission has said.”
The commission next plans a workshop on the issues. As of Islander press time July 21, a date had not been set.
was left with extensive damage.
Spa owner Amanda Escobio told The Islander July 17 that she has been determined to reopen the day spa despite its prolonged closure due to damages.
Escobio said the building’s roof failed during Hurricane Helene, so a temporary one was quickly installed — but it was not built to deal with Hurricane Milton. As a result, there were leaks that resulted in water damage throughout the second foor.
While the roof has been replaced, Escobio said she is still working with the property owner to restore the property’s damaged ceiling, walls and foor. She said there is no projected timeline for reopening.
“Good things are usually worth waiting for,” Escobio said. “We would like to see it reopen.”
Escobio said she has a couple of sister spas across the island that are back in operation, including Searenity Beach Spa and Boutique in Bradenton Beach.
Escobio stressed that while many local businesses are back on their feet, they still need the community’s support to return to full strength.
“I think a lot of people don’t realize how much island businesses still need support and that we’re still recovering from losses,” she said. “Island small businesses are defnitely still relying on support from locals and visitors.”
By Robert Anderson Islander Reporter
Auditors Randy Dillingham and Jeff Gerhard of CS&L CPAs reported July 15 that Bradenton Beach is fnancially sound, positioning the city to move forward with planning a proposed $5 million budget for fscal year 2025-26.
Despite an 11% drop in property values after hurricanes Helene and Milton in 2024, auditors told city commissioners the city’s reserves and conservative fscal approach helped weather the crisis.
During opening remarks in a budget workshop that followed, police Chief John Cosby, who serves as the city’s emergency manager and public works director, emphasized how crucial fnancial reserves were to the city’s comeback.
“At the end of some of the budgeted years, when there was money left over, instead of just rolling it back into the general fund, we’ve put it in an uncommitted reserve — and that was by far one of the smartest things we’ve ever done as a city, because we’ve been able to weather two back-to-back category 3 hurricanes within 10 days — and we’re doing really good,” Cosby said.
Commissioners voted to base the budget on a millage rate at 2.3329 mills — the current rate — for the new fscal year.
“The decision was also made, even though we had 11% reduction in property value due to the hurricanes, that we would hold the property tax at that level and not increase it,” Cosby said.
The rollback rate — the tax rate that would generate the same amount of revenue for the city as the prior year, excluding new construction — is 2.7804.
“There was some discussion of going to the rollback rate, because we’re below the rollback rate, where we’re at,” Cosby said.
However, staff has proposed adjustments to the city’s transient public lodging establishment license fees, which apply to short-term vacation rentals, as well as other fee increases.
“The increase in the fees are spread more thoroughly through tourism and will make up what we’ve lost,” Cosby said.
The proposed general fund budget totals $5,045,506.
City treasurer Shayne Thompson, who reviewed the fgures at the workshop, said projected revenue is $5,652,680, leaving funds available to help replenish reserve funds impacted by the cost of storm recovery.
The proposed budget includes targeted improvements to key public spaces.
Also, while city commissioners have backed a 5% raise for employees, they voted to postpone the addition of new staff positions in the planning and police departments until 2026-27.
Emergency management staff are due to receive a pay bump for expanded storm recovery duties and the planning department is approved to purchase $48,800
Plan now for summer!
Is your business ready to make the most of summer and Labor Day? 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.
By Robert Anderson Islander Reporter
Bradenton Beach is launching a new emergency notifcation system to better inform the public.
Police Chief John Cosby, the city’s emergency management offcial, requested commission approval to implement TextMyGov, a one-way text alert system for real-time public notifcations.
The commission approved the proposal, contingent on establishing privacy disclaimers and record-keeping protocols.
“I would like it in place before the height of hurricane season,” Cosby told commissioners, referring to implementation by late August.
Cosby said the system would be used to send updates about emergencies, city projects and other city-related matters.
Updates would be issued via a web-based program through the police department by Cosby, Lt. Lenard Diaz and administrative assistant ChrisAnn Allen, who organizes department releases.
“This is just more enhanced and more direct,” Cosby said. “Everybody in this room can opt into it … and you would receive the texts.”
He said similar systems are utilized by Holmes Beach and Longboat Key.
The alert system was one component of Cosby’s broader report to commissioners on the city’s hurricane recovery projects, including those tied to funding from the Federal Emergency Management Agency.
“We’re quite a ways into this recovery,” Cosby
in scanning equipment to improve internal records management.
Mayor John Chappie noted that the budget process is still in early stages.
The budget will be adopted in September for a fscal year that begins Oct. 1.
said, citing reimbursements already received and others still either under FEMA review or in dispute for damages caused by hurricanes Helene and Milton in 2024.
Debris removal, he said, was completed swiftly and fully reimbursed by FEMA at $1.1 million.
Emergency services — including police and public works overtime — totaled about $78,000. Those funds have been obligated by FEMA but payment is pending, the chief said.
A more contentious issue is road damage reimbursement. Cosby said FEMA has undervalued the city’s roadways repairs.
“FEMA’s trying to say the roadbed was not damaged,” Cosby said. “So, we are obviously fghting them. We’ve got the state involved. We also hired a geoengineer to take core samples to give us a report.”
Cosby said that if FEMA denies the claim, the city plans to appeal.
Stormwater system repairs, which were contracted to Woodruff & Sons of Bradenton are nearly complete, with only a few punch-list items remaining.
Cosby also reported that repairs to city buildings and equipment were moving forward. The city is working to secure FEMA reimbursement for insurance deductibles on damaged items.
Ongoing projects include repairs to city docks, parks and the boat lift at the Historic Bridge Street Pier. In total, Cosby said, there are 16 projects tied to parks and recreation under FEMA review.
The next commission meeting will be at 6 p.m. Thursday, Aug. 7, at city hall, 107 Gulf Drive N.
I never once thought about sharks in the waters at Virginia Beach, where I played, body-surfed and rode rafts and boards as a kid.
I did worry about drowning, having never had a swim lesson.
Later, when I came to Anna Maria Island and I spent many hours in the water, I didn’t worry about sharks.
I gave them a passing thought on a boat trip to the Dry Tortugas, where mid-day I was encouraged to take a dip in the water to refresh. “No thanks.” I said, as I eyed the water, the color of new Levi’s. “I don’t want to see a shark coming at me.”
Then, in 1975 there was “Jaws,” the movie.
By the time I saw the movie — at home with my kids and friends on TV — I was giggling when I heard the opening music. I’d been deconditioned by “Saturday Night Live” skits, featuring the “Landshark” in “candygram” skits, a response to “Jaws.”
But “Jaws” turned ugly real quick, even though we didn’t see the shark. It was scary. Real scary.
The next time I went to the beach, it was May and the beach was empty as far as I could see. No one to hear my screams, I thought.
No more swimming in the Gulf for me.
Prompted by the beginning of Shark Week on the Discovery Channel and the 50th anniversary last month of Steven Spielberg’s movie, I went fshing online, where I stumbled on a Washington Post article by Teddy Amenabar, “Here’s what shark experts do to stay safe in the ocean.”
Amenabar “asked some pros how they approach a swim in the ocean — even though shark bites are rare.
Chris Lowe, director of the Shark Lab at California State University in Long Beach, said, “It’s like they are ignoring us. We’re just fotsam, not food or foe.”
Amenabar says that for three years, researchers in Lowe’s lab surveyed 26 California beaches from Santa Barbara to San Diego with drones and saw sharks swim right under surfers without changing course.
“They’re not these monster killers that just come fying in whenever there’s bait,” said Neil Hammerschlag, a shark researcher in Nova Scotia, Canada, who charters cage-diving expeditions, bringing tourists up close to blue, mako and great white sharks. “They’re very cautious.”
The Washington Post asked Hammerschlag and Lowe the advice they give beachgoers who want to avoid a shark encounter.
Amenabar reported, “You’re more likely to die falling into a hole at the beach, in a riptide or in an alligator attack than from a shark bite, according to data from the Florida Museum of Natural History’s International Shark Attack File. Last year, the museum recorded 47 unprovoked bites worldwide.”
I’m sharing their advice online at islander.org. But will I go back in the water? No way.
— Bonner Joy, news@islander.org
ing it.
Historians say that it is impossible to ascertain with any certainty where and when vodka was frst made.
That’s because the people who made vodka were drink-
Vodka is derived from the Russian word for water.
Meanwhile, whiskey is derived from the Irish word for water, which might lead you to believe that at one point the Russians and the Irish drank together.
Even for the Irish, drinking with Russians is a bad idea.
And I never made it to the dance.
There is an old saying that Baptists don’t approve of liquor - “because it leads to dancing.”
But there was no dancing that night for me.
Fifteen minutes after quaffing the pint, I was sprawled in anguish on the bathroom foor.
I stayed there until Monday morning, when I crawled out of the bathroom — virginity intact.
I pleaded with God to deliver me from that vodka hell. I promised that I would become a priest and dedicate the rest of my life to His service.
One little miracle and He couldn’t deliver.
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Anthony Bourdain says that no matter how good you think you are at holding your liquor, any 12-yearold Russian can drink you under the table.
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I am not big on vodka. I was mauled by vodka as a young man.
My hard liquor experience began with a few sips of lemon gin that Mikie O’Leary stole from his mom.
Juvenile Catholic males at one time attributed mystical properties to lemon gin.
We believed it could cure virginity.
We got the gin concept all wrong. You don’t lose your virginity by drinking lemon gin, you lose it by getting other people to drink it.
Mrs. O’Leary’s gin was training wheels for my tragic bout with vodka.
It was a warm and sultry summer Saturday night. The plan was to procure vodka from a bootlegger and share it with my buddies before we all went to a dance.
I got off work late and everyone had already left for the dance. Determined to catch up, I sat down with a pint of vodka and a pint of orange juice.
The f rst thing I learned about vodka was that, unlike gin, vodka does not taste like anything.
Aside from my personal scarring, I have other reservations about vodka. I am in the business of trying to make stuff taste great. Vodka-makers aspire to make vodka with no taste at all.
Vodka-makers generally distill their product three times to approximate pure ethanol and then add water and flter the product through treated carbon, sand or even diamonds to remove the kind of substances that give character and favor to rums and whiskeys.
Most inexpensive vodkas are made by adding water and favorings to almost pure alcohol made by the large agricultural conglomerate, Archer Midlands.
The craziest vodka cocktails are the ones mixed with caffeine.
The Espresso Martini makes you alert but stupid, and a new crazy cocktail — vodka and Red Bull — allows you to be wide awake for your mistake.
At one time, Mr. Trump started a vodka company.
That also did not go well.
— Sean Murphy
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.
A tumbler full of vodka and orange juice tastes a lot like a tumbler full of orange juice.
I drank three or four tumblers in rapid succession.
Please, submit opinions with name, address and phone number to news@islander.org. Only the name and city are published.
At the scene
“I saw a car and boat trailer jackknifed near a power pole,” Islander reporter June Alder wrote about her arrival to the Kingfish Boat Ramp Aug. 1, 1980. A wrecked wagon and boat belonged to Dr. Juan Dumois, 47, of Tampa. He and his sons Eric, 13, and Mark, 9, were fatally shot that day, as was islander Robert Matzke, 60. Dumois’ brother-in-law was injured during the crime, which remains unsolved.
Islander Photo: Courtesy Manatee County Public Library System The Islander wants to talk with people about their recollections of Aug, 1, 1980, on AMI. Please, email lisa@islander.org.
Send letters to the editor to news@islander.org,
As Holmes Beach works to recover from hits from back-to-back hurricanes last fall, city offcials are proposing a property tax millage hike and an increased stormwater infrastructure fee.
Let’s be clear: this is the wrong move at the worst possible time.
Residents are still dealing with insurance claims, home repairs, lost income and trauma. Life hasn’t returned to normal — and won’t for some time. Asking people to pay more now isn’t just tone-deaf; it’s unjust.
Before turning to taxpayers, the city should examine its own spending. Have departments been asked to trim nonessential expenses? Has Holmes Beach exhausted options for grants, state aid or federal disaster funds?
Raising taxes now suggests the frst instinct is to collect more revenue rather than cut costs. That’s not fscal responsibility. It’s taking the easy way out.
This is a moment for restraint, not expansion. Families are cutting back, delaying repairs and stretching every dollar. City hall must do the same. No new capital project or initiative should come before the fnancial
stability of our residents.
Yes, stormwater infrastructure matters, but so does keeping people in their homes. Reallocating existing funds, delaying lower-priority projects or conducting an audit to identify waste should be considered before imposing new taxes.
Holmes Beach doesn’t need higher taxes. It needs leaders willing to make hard, smart choices.
Residents have endured enough. We need relief, not more taxes.
Kim Rash, Holmes Beach
Favorite way to “read” a book:
A. On paper.
B. E-book.
C. Audiobook.
D. Don’t read books.
To answer the poll and see poll results, go to islander.org.
To suggest a question, email lisa@islander.org.
Personnel from Manatee County Beach Patrol and other agencies, including the West Manatee Fire Rescue, train July 15 in Longboat Pass at Coquina Beach and the Longboat Pass Bridge in swiftwater rescue situations. The training was led by North Port-based Team Blacksheep TRT during the week beginning July 14. Participating personnel included firefighters, law enforcement, lifeguards and paramedics from agencies across Florida’s west coast. Islander Photos: Jacob Merrifield
From the July 20, 1995, issue
• The Holmes Beach Code Enforcement Board gave a resident 30 days to get rid of her pet pig or face a fne of $25 per day for violating the land development code, which prohibited farm-like animals.
• Anna Maria hired a St. Pete man, Philip Charnock, to serve as director of public works and building offcial for an annual salary of $32,000.
• The Islander was stocked with advertising promoting “Christmas in July” and specials. AMI businesses once made much of the summer “holiday.”
From the July 20, 2005, issue
• A house f re destroyed a residence in the 700 block of Anna Maria’s Jacaranda Avenue and caused smoke damage to three adjacent structures.
• An island renourishment project to replace sand lost in four storms got underway on AMI with $4.8 million in funding authorized by Congress.
• The Manatee County Property Appraiser’s offce said evaluations on the island climbed 24% from 2004 to top $3.3 billion. The net taxable value — minus public buildings, churches and nonprofts — was $2.6 billion.
From the July 22, 2015, issue
• A circuit court judge put a temporary halt on Anna Maria’s enforcement of an ordinance pertaining to short-term vacation rentals.
• Holmes Beach’s mayor informed city commissioners of a $651,000 shortfall in the general fund and said property owners should be assessed a higher tax rate in the next budget year.
• Holmes Beach offcials began taking a closer look at creating a permit-based parking program to protect residential access to streets.
— Lisa Neff
You can help preserve your community news by investing in the future. The Islander print and E-edition is free for now and we need your help to ensure it stays that way, but
Compiled by Lisa Neff, calendar@islander.org
Sunday, July 27
7 p.m. — Island Players open auditions, “Janus,” 10009 Gulf Drive, Anna Maria. Info: 941-778-5755, theislandplayers.org.
Monday, July 28
1 p.m. — Center of Anna Maria Island Book Club, 407 Magnolia Ave., Anna Maria. Info: 941-778-1908, centerami.org.
• Throughout July, Artists’ Guild of Anna Maria Island exhibit, Artists’ Guild Gallery, 5414 Marina Drive, Holmes Beach. Info: 941778-6694, amiartistsguildgallery.com.
• Most third Mondays, 1 p.m., Center of Anna Maria Island Book Club, 407 Magnolia Ave., Anna Maria. Info: 941-778-1908, centerami.org.
Wednesday, July 23
7 p.m. — Ancient Skies: Egyptian Astronomy, the Bishop Museum of Science and Nature, 201 10th St. W., Bradenton. Fee applies. Info: 941-746-4131, bishopscience.org.
• Throughout July, Island Gallery and Studios exhibit, 456 Old Main St., Bradenton. Info: 941-778-6648.
• Through July 30, “Art from the Heart: Connectivity,” The Ringling, 5401 Bay Shore Road, Sarasota. Info: 941-359-5700, ringling. org.
• 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, bishopscience.org.
• Through Aug. 31, “Life on the Edge” exhibit, the Bishop Museum of Science, 201 10th St. W., Bradenton. Fee applies. Info: 941-746-4131, bishopscience.org.
• 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:
LANDSCAPE & LAWN MAINTENANCE INC.
The Manatee County Library Summer Learning Program for kids up to age 17 continues through Aug. 1.
The pirate-themed campaign that launched in late May encourages kids to read and rewards reading with books and other prizes.
For every fve hours of reading, participants earn
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, www.floridamaritimemuseum.org.
• Sept. 18-28, Island Players’ “Janus,” Anna Maria.
• Oct. 18, Anna Maria Island Chamber of Commerce’s Bayfest, Anna Maria.
• Nov. 8, Nov. 10, Pops Orchestra of Bradenton and Sarasota Rhinestone Cowboys and National Heroes concert, Bradenton.
• Nov. 13-23, Island Players’ “Doublewide, Texas Christmas,” Anna Maria.
• Nov. 16, Island Players’ “Murder by Misadventure” auditions, Anna Maria.
• Dec. 13, Dec. 15, Pops Orchestra of Bradenton and Sarasota A Christmas Carol Concert, Bradenton.
ONGOING ON AMI
• Most Fridays, 10 a.m., Forty Carrots, Island Library, 5701 Marina Drive, Holmes Beach. Info: 941-778-6341, mymanatee. org.
• Most Tuesdays, 10 a.m., Family Storytime, Island Library, 5701 Marina Drive, Holmes Beach. Info: 941-778-6341.
SAVE THE DATES
• Aug. 1, Manatee County Sports and Leisure Services’ Family Fun Night, Bradenton.
• Oct. 31, Bradenton Alive Halloween Celebration, Bradenton.
• Dec. 5, Realize Bradenton Winter Wonderland, Bradenton. 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
• Aug. 1, Center of Anna Maria Island Crisis Ready seminar,
www.allin1home.com
a free book and an entry into a grand-prize raffe. Reading beyond 20 hours unlocks additional raffe entries and brings participants closer to the chance of becoming a “Kid Librarian” as well as the opportunity to win a free round of mini golf and a ticket to a Bradenton Marauders baseball game.
Grand-prize awards are age-related.
For more, visit the Island Library, 5701 Marina Drive, Holmes Beach, or call the library at 941-7786341.
Anna Maria.
• Aug. 9, Kiwanis Club of Anna Maria Island meeting, Bradenton Beach.
• Sept. 6, Kiwanis Club of Anna Maria Island meeting, Bradenton Beach.
• Nov. 8, Friends of Manatee County Animal Welfare Friendsgiving, Palmetto.
LESSONS & LEARNING ON AMI
Thursday, July 24
10 a.m. — Wildlife Inc. program, Island Library, 5701 Marina Drive, Holmes Beach. Info: 941-778-6341.
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, islandturtlewatch. com.
ONGOING OFF AMI
• Through Sept. 7, various dates, Bradenton Marauders baseball, LECOM Park, 1611 Ninth St. W., Bradenton. Fee applies. Info: 941-747-3031, Info: milb.com/bradenton.
SAVE THE DATES
• Sept. 6, Bradenton Marauders Fan Appreciation Night, Bradenton.
• Sept. 6, Center of Anna Maria Island LaPensee Bowling Tournament, Bradenton.
& NATURE ON AMI
Saturday, July 26
7 a.m. — Keep Manatee Beautiful sea oats planting, Coquina Beach, Bradenton Beach. Info: 941-757-7294, manateebeautiful. com.
ONGOING OFF AMI
• Saturdays through July, 6:45 a.m., Longboat Key Turtle Watch walks, beach access, 4795 Gulf of Mexico Drive, LBK. Info: lbkturtlewatch.com.
• Saturdays, 9 a.m., Manatee County Natural Resources Department’s Saturday Mornings at the NEST, 840 99th St. NW,
Anna Maria Elementary, 4700 Gulf Drive, Holmes Beach, will host an open house for 2025-26 students and their adults Thursday, Aug. 7.
A 4:30-5:15 p.m. session will be held for voluntary prekindergarten with last names A-M and kindergarten through second-grade students.
A 5:15-6 p.m. session will be held for students in grades three-fve and VPK students with last names N-Z.
A notice promoting the event said, “Please join us as we kick off a ‘Fin-tastic’ new year at AME, where dolphins make a difference!”
AME’s principal, Dr. Katie Fradley, told The Islander, “We look forward to welcoming all of our Anna Maria families. … It’s the perfect time for students to meet their teacher, reconnect with friends, drop off school supplies and check out all the exciting changes from our summer campus facelift.”
For more information, call AME at 941-708-5525 or go to www.manateeschools.net/o/annamaria.
AME will share classroom assignments with families in a new way. On July 31, emails sent through the district’s Focus system will inform families of classroom and teacher assignments.
“It’s very important that families make sure their contact information — especially their email address — is correct so they don’t miss this important message,” AME principal Katie Fradley said.
People can call the school registrar with questions about updating contact information.
School District of Manatee County classes in the 2025-26 academic year will begin Monday, Aug. 11.
The school year begins earlier for teachers and staff, with teacher workdays Aug. 4 and Aug. 6-7 and in-service days Aug. 5 and Aug. 8.
The frst break will be Monday, Sept. 1, for Labor Day.
— Lisa Neff
Bradenton. Info: 941-748-4501, mymanatee.org.
KEEP THE DATES
• Through Oct. 31, Nesting season continues. Lights out.
•Through Nov. 30, Atlantic hurricane season continues. Be prepared.
• Aug. 8, International Cat Day.
• Aug. 11, back to school.
• Aug. 26, International Dog Day.
• Aug. 30, Jimmy Buffett Day.
• Sept. 1, Labor Day.
• Oct. 13, Columbus Day.
• Oct. 13, Indigenous Peoples’ Day.
Compiled by Lisa Neff
The Island Players are raising the curtain on their 77th season with a diverse lineup.
“We’re not just putting on shows; we’re creating memories that last long after the fnal bow,” the community theater group stated in a news release.
The 2025-26 season’s quintet of productions spans genres — from screwball comedy to political satire.
The season opener, “Janus,” hits the boards Sept. 18-28 under the direction of Mike Lusk, promising mistaken identity hijinks, chaos and a side of romantic entanglement.
Come November, the Players will present “Doublewide, Texas Christmas,” in which residents of America’s tiniest town must band together to save their community and pull off a holiday miracle. Director Kelly Wynn Woodland promises hometown hilarity with heart.
The new year brings murder most foul with “Murder by Misadventure,” a thriller that puts two television writers center stage as they plot the perfect crime on paper and in reality. Director Heiko Knipfelberg’s production promises classic British suspense with enough twists to keep audiences guessing.
Spring arrives with Preston Boyd directing “The Second Time Around,” a tender exploration of late-inlife romance that proves love stories don’t expire with
The Artists’ Guild of Anna Maria Island has welcomed new member Gary Green to its Guild Gallery in the Island Shopping Center at 5414 Marina Drive, Holmes Beach.
Green, a member of regional and national art groups, brings four decades of award-winning experience to the gallery, according to a news release.
His work, featured in juried shows and private collections, refects casual storytelling with unexpected elements that invite refection.
Green works in watercolor, acrylic, oil, mixed media and hand-drawn digital painting.
His pieces are on display at the nonproft gallery, which showcases more than 50 artists.
For more information, call 941-778-6694.
The Island Players will hold open auditions Sunday, July 27, for “Janus,” the frst play of the community theater’s 77th season.
The show, directed by Mike Lusk, will run Sept. 18-28 at the theater, 10009 Gulf Drive, Anna Maria.
The auditions — parts for three men and two women — will be at 7 p.m. at the theater.
For more information, call 941-778-7374 or go online to www.theislandplayers.org.
an AARP membership.
The season concludes with James Thaggard directing “The Outsider,” a sharp political satire about a number-cruncher who becomes the face of a major political campaign despite wanting nothing to do with politics.
Season tickets are available through Aug. 25, offering the best seats at the best prices.
Co-producers this season include LaPensee Plumbing, Pools & Air, Sato Real Estate, Ginny’s and Jane E’s, Off Stage Ladies and the Ugly Grouper.
For more information, call 941-778-7374 or go online to theislandplayers.org.
Center of Anna Maria Island supporters will have their chance to roll for a cause at the annual Greg LaPensee Bowling Tournament set for Saturday, Sept. 6, at Bowlero Bradenton.
The tournament, presented by LaPensee Plumbing, will bring together community members for an evening of friendly competition and fundraising.
Check-in will begin at 5:30 p.m. at the Cortez Road venue, with bowling action scheduled 6- 8 p.m., followed by awards and raffe drawings.
The event serves a dual purpose: fostering community connections while supporting the center’s mission to provide programs and services for people of all ages across AMI.
Sponsorship opportunities range from $275 for lane signage to $750 for signature lane packages that include six players, beverages, custom shirts and prominent logo placement.
Standard lanes accommodating six players are available for $350.
“With limited lane availability, early registration is strongly encouraged,” the center stated in the news release. The popular event typically sells out quickly.
Interested participants can secure their spots by contacting the center at 941-778-1908 or emailing info@centerami.org.
Logo submissions for custom shirts must be completed by Aug. 21.
By Lisa Neff
The Rev. Lee Miller will begin serving Aug. 1 as the priest-in-charge at the Episcopal Church of the Annunciation.
motivational messaging and theological accessibility, dates back several decades and was born from his early career as a syndicated radio and television host.
Longboat Island Chapel’s events committee is planning to meet at 10 a.m. Wednesday, July 30, to discuss activities for the 2025-26 calendar.
The meeting will be in the chapel’s Shook Fellowship Hall, 6200 Gulf of Mexico Drive, Longboat Key, according to longboatislandchapel.org.
For more about the chapel, call 941-383-6491.
John B. Cagnina, 81, of Holmes Beach, died May 31.
He was born Sept. 16, 1943, in Tampa to the late Ignazio E. and Josephine Cagnina.
He was a lifelong Floridian whose life was marked by his faith, integrity and love for family, friends and community.
He grew up on Anna Maria Island and spent his childhood years fshing, working at his family’s IGA store, playing baseball and football and enjoying the freedoms of living on a relatively undeveloped island. The tranquility of beach life suited him and Anna Maria Island remained his lifelong home. He graduated the University of Florida with a degree in business administration.
He then served in the Florida Army National Guard for six years.
He became a licensed mortgage broker and founding Southeast Independent Mortgage Co., where he spent the majority of his working career.
Mr. Cagnina enjoyed reading fnancial, historical and political publications. He enjoyed time with family
After months of rebuilding and cleanup, the damage caused by hurricanes Helene and Milton is in the rearview mirror for the church. Now, as they celebrate their ffth week back inside the church, they welcome a new priest-in-charge.
Miller — Father Lee, as he is affectionately known — is recognized for his dynamic style of speaking and emphasis on personal growth and transformation, according to a news release from the church. He frequently merges everyday experiences, current events and entertainment news with Scripture to present engaging and thought-provoking homilies and sermons.
Miller’s style, featuring a distinctive blend of
and friends, vacationing in Montana and New England, watching sports and cheering his beloved Gators.
A celebration of life will be at 3 p.m. Saturday, July 26, at Ginny’s and Jane E’s Cafe — formerly the IGA store — in Anna Maria.
Mr. Cagnina is survived by his wife of 45 years, Carol Gilley; sister Carmen and husband Bill Shea; sister-in-law Dorothy Surette; aunt Josie Pollock; and numerous nieces, nephews and cousins.
Janet March Desmarais, 66, of Bunnell, and formerly of Anna Maria, died July 6, in Gainesville following complications from surgery.
She was born and raised in Auburn, New Hampshire, to Walter and Gwendolyn (Gerrior) Desmarais. She attended Auburn Village and Manchester Central High schools.
She married James Doherty in 1977 in Auburn and they had two sons, James and Patrick. She would later marry Robert Bruce in Derry, New Hampshire, and, in 1989, she married Todd Test on the beach at the north point of Anna Maria Island.
During that time, he interviewed a range of political and entertainment icons, including Jimmy Carter, Ronald Reagan, Johnny Mathis, Brenda Lee, Tina Turner, Dolly Parton, Barbara Walters, Sonny and Cher and Arnold Schwarzenegger, among others, according to the release.
Miller previously served as rector at churches in Kentucky, Ohio and Florida and arrives at the Church of the Annunciation from St. John the Divine in Sun City Center.
The church is at 4408 Gulf Drive, Holmes Beach.
Holy Eucharist services are held Sundays at 9:15 a.m.
For more, contact Cindy Curley at cota@tampabay.rr.com or 941-778-1638.
She moved with her two sons in 1985 to Anna Maria Island where her parents bought the Rod and Reel Motel. She managed the motel for 20 years with two talking parrots in the motel offce. She was well loved by all her hotel guests, as well as the friends she made on the island.
She played cards with friends, guests and family and fshed often with her sons at the Rod & Reel Pier. She liked going out to local hangouts, including Pete Reynard’s Yacht Club. She enjoyed country music and dancing.
She moved to North Carolina to be with her son James and his family in 2022 but returned to the Florida sunshine in Bunnell in 2023.
The family asked that memorial donations be made to Bishop Animal Shelter in Bradenton. Crevasse’s Simple Cremation was in charge of arrangements.
Mrs. Desmarais is survived by her mother, Gwendolyn, of Bradenton; sons James and wife Cassie of Lenoir, North Carolina, and Patrick and wife Nora of Brookline, New Hampshire; sisters Katherine and husband Peter of Loudon, New Hampshire, and Susan and husband Brian of Auburn, New Hampshire; grandchildren Ava, Hannah, Ariana, James, Julie, Gunner, Landon, Cameron and Anakin; and several nieces and nephews.
By Lisa Neff
Keep Manatee Beautiful volunteers will be gathering for a sea oats planting at 7 a.m. Saturday, July 26, at Coquina Beach, Bradenton Beach.
Beach dunes serve as the island’s first line of defense against storm surge, high tides and erosion, as the natural barriers absorb wave energy during storms.
Beyond storm protection, dunes provide habitat for shorebirds, sea tur-
tles and other coastal wildlife. They also help flter rainwater and reduce pollution runoff.
Volunteers will meet in the parking lot near the southern tip of the island.
KMB will provide tools and plants but volunteers should wear closed-toe shoes and bring water, sunscreen and gloves.
For more information, go online to manateebeautiful.com or call 941-7958272.
The citizens of Kerr County, Texas, need our prayers of comfort, love and caring. Christ Church of Longboat Key invites you to a FREE Texas Treats Bufet luncheon at 11:00 AM, immediately following our Sunday Service at 10:00
IS FREE - RESERVATIONS ARE NOT REQUIRED
Island police reports
Anna Maria
No new reports.
The MCSO polices the city.
Bradenton Beach
July 13, 2000 block of Avenue B, trespass. A complainant said her landlord intruded into her rented room and would not leave. Police offcers arrived to fnd the landlord still inside the room. The landlord was arrested and transported to the Manatee County jail for trespassing.
The Bradenton Beach Police Department polices the city.
Cortez
No new reports.
The MCSO polices the village.
Holmes Beach
July 9, East Bay Drive and Manatee Avenue West, leaving scene of crash involving damage to property. Witnesses said a motorist fed a traffc crash. Using a photo of the vehicle, a police offcer found a license plate number and contacted the registered owner, who had lent the vehicle to a friend. The offcer contacted that man, who said he fed because he felt threatened by the people in the other vehicle. The offcer issued criminal citations for leaving the scene of a crash with property damage and driving with a suspended license.
July 9, Pizzano’s Pizza, 5318 Marina Drive, trespass after warning. An intoxicated person was seen urinating on the walkway outside, in view of the public, prompting complaints. An offcer issued a court summons to the man, who left the area.
July 11, Manatee Public Beach, 4000 Gulf Drive, trespass. Two offcers responded around 10:32 p.m. to a disturbance between two men. The offcers advised them the park was closed and they had to leave, at which point one man, who had been warned in a prior incident, became uncooperative. The offcers handcuffed him and provided a court summons. The other man asked for help and an offcer transported him to Centerstone Behavioral Hospital in Bradenton.
July 14, Manatee Public Beach, 4000 Gulf Drive, domestic battery. Offcers responded to the beach. A woman said her husband had battered her and was now making suicidal statements. The offcers provided a victim’s rights brochure and a domestic violence pamphlet. They arrested the man and transported him to the Manatee County jail.
Holmes Beach Police Department polices the city.
Streetlife is based on incident reports and narratives from the BBPD, HBPD and MCSO.
— Robert Anderson and Ryan Paice
Holmes Beach police arrested a minor July 10 for allegedly driving under the infuence of alcohol or drugs, a second-degree misdemeanor.
An offcer responded around 8:55 p.m. to the scene of a vehicle crash in the 700 block of Manatee Avenue and found a man with a 17-year-old grandson, who was driving.
The minor, who displayed signs of impairment, failed feld sobriety exercises.
The minor was arrested and transported to the Manatee County juvenile detention center.
— Ryan Paice
Island watch In an emergency, call 911. To report information, call the MCSO Anna Maria, 941708-8899; Bradenton Beach police, 941-778-6311; or Holmes Beach police, 941-708-5804.
By Lisa Neff Islander Editor
A Florida man serving a sentence for a North Miami Beach murder was arrested July 10 in connection with the 2017 killing of two people at the Zota Beach Resort on Longboat Key.
Damien J. Garvin, 40, is accused of frst-degree murder in the Aug. 4, 2017, fatal shootings of night manager Timothy Hurley, 59, of Sarasota, and Victory Security of Florida guard Kevin Carter, 51, of Bradenton, during a robbery at the resort, 4711 Gulf of Mexico Drive.
In 2024, authorities also arrested Latoya Hanna, 37, the sister of Darryl Vaughn Hanna Jr., who was arrested Aug. 9, 2017, in connection with the killings. He suffered a stroke and traumatic brain injury and never stood trial.
A Longboat Key Police Department affidavit alleges that Darryl Hanna Jr., Latoya Hanna, Damien Garvin and a fourth person were involved in the robbery and homicide.
Regarding Garvin, the affdavit states that he was involved in a relationship with Latoya Hanna at the time of the Zota killings. LBKPD, during its investigation, learned that Garvin was arrested on a murder charge by the North Miami Police Department in connection with a crime committed with a 9mm pistol, the same caliber weapon used at the Zota Beach Resort.
Testing found the shell casings recovered from the LBK resort were fred from the pistol recovered in the other case.
The affdavit also alleges that Latoya Hanna confessed to driving the getaway car but that she was unaware Garvin brought a gun. She allegedly told police her brother told her Garvin and a friend shot and killed Carter and Hurley.
Garvin is scheduled for arraignment Aug. 22 at the Manatee County Judicial Center, 1051 Manatee Ave. W., Bradenton.
Latoya Hanna, facing a charge of second-degree principal to murder, is scheduled for a case management conference in August at the judicial center.
A parking lot at the Bungalow Beach Resort in Bradenton Beach. A special master will hold a hearing at 10 a.m. July 29 at city hall, 107 Gulf Drive N., to consider an appeal of a denied permit for paid parking on the lot. Islander
Bradenton Beach will hold a special master hearing July 29 to consider the appeal of a denied permit for paid parking at Bungalow Beach Resort.
Resort owner Gayle Luper, who has operated the property at 2000 Gulf Drive N. since 1999, has called the city’s decision to shut down a refurbished parking lot a “targeted action” against a longstanding, licensed motel.
She said the closure in March resulted in more than $100,000 in lost revenue and prohibits access for
guests, friends and vendors.
Luper had applied for a temporary use permit for paid parking after demolishing hurricane-damaged resort bungalows. In April, city commissioners denied Luper’s request, citing the property’s residential zoning. The commission issued a permit for temporary resort parking — excluding paid parking.
The hearing will be at 9 a.m. Tuesday, July 29, at city hall, 107 Gulf Drive N.
— Robert Anderson
By Robert Anderson Islander Reporter
Bradenton Beach commissioners July 17 approved an easement agreement with Drift-In AMI, 120 Bridge St., formalizing changes to pedestrian access and landscaped areas.
The decision cleared a fnal hurdle in the DriftIn’s redevelopment and follows conceptual approval granted in April, when commissioners signed off on the business’s major development plan.
Attorney Robert Lincoln, representing the city, said the new easement replaces two older agreements and simplifes the legal layout of the property. “When you approved the major development plan, you approved … a change in easements that had been previously granted by the prior owners to the city for pedestrians, for basically sidewalks and landscaping,” Lincoln told commissioners.
The new easement creates a continuous public access corridor, releasing parts of the old easements that extended into the Drift-In’s property. On the east side, the easement wraps around the building and continues along Church Avenue. On the west, it widens to include a sidewalk’s location within the property
boundaries.
The Drift reopened in April following hurricane damage last fall. In addition to the recovery work, the business was tied up for months in a permitting dispute about a newly constructed tiki hut.
The structure was approved in December 2024 by former building offcial Darin Cushing, but the city halted work in January after city attorney Ricinda Perry said the permit should not have been issued without commission approval of a major development.
As a result, Drift-In owner Derek Williams faced multiple challenges, including fre safety inspections, code compliance requirements, construction changes, and extended delays tied to the major development process.
To resolve the issue and allow the business to reopen, the city agreed to release the portion of the easement impacted by the tiki hut — provided conditions were met.
The commission approved the final easement agreement 5-0.
By Lisa Neff
It’s looking like a brisk season for turtle watchers.
Approaching the fourth month of the season, which officially began May 1, Anna Maria Island Turtle Watch and Shorebird Monitoring reported seeing fewer new nests but an increase in hatches.
“Which is about right for this time of year,” said AMITW executive director Kristen Mazzarella in a July 18 report.
For July 12-18, AMITW reported 43 new nests and 48 false crawls.
For the total as of July 18, AMITW reported 490 loggerhead nests and 12 green nests, 48 hatched nests, 2,656 hatchlings produced, 27 adult disorientations, 15 hatchling disorientations and 789 false crawls.
What’s the difference between a false crawl and a disorientation?
A sea turtle false crawl, also known as a non-nesting emergence, occurs when a female sea turtle crawls ashore to nest but then returns to the water without laying eggs.
False crawls can occur because the turtle is deterred by:
• Unfavorable beach conditions like loose sand or steep slopes;
As of July 18, AMITW reported 502 nests, 789 false crawls, 48 hatched nests, 2,656 hatchlings to the Gulf, 27 adult disorientations and 15 hatchling disorientations.
• Human presence, noise or artifcial lighting. Repeated false crawls can negatively impact a sea turtle’s reproductive success.
A disorientation is when a nesting female or turtle hatchling is drawn away from the water to artifcial light.
Sea turtles navigate to the water using a combination of visual cues, wave orientation and the Earth’s magnetic feld. Initially, they are drawn to the brighter horizon over the water.
A misdirection away from the water can be fatal, as disoriented turtles may exhaust themselves, be eaten by predators or face other dangers on land.
Mazzarella, in mid-July report on nesting, said, “As expected, disorientations skyrocketed this week as hatching started increasing, with 13 new hatchling disorientations just this week.”
Class lessons from AMITW, AME 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 Rachel Mauk’s first-grade class: How big can a sea turtle get?
AMITW: The size of a sea turtle is different for each species. The largest species, the leatherback, can get to be 5-6 feet long and weigh between 750 and 1,000 pounds! The smallest sea turtle is the Kemp’s ridley and they can be up to 2 feet long and 70-100 pounds. Loggerheads, which are the most common nester on Anna Maria Island, are 2.5 to 3.5 feet long and 200-350 pounds.
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.
AMITW is a nonprofit focused on collecting data on nesting sea turtles and shorebirds. The data is required by beach renourishment contracts and is used to monitor populations.
She continued, “Many hatchlings were found in pools and had to be taken to Mote (Marine Laboratory) for rehabilitation from chlorine ingestion.”
The hatchlings were to be taken offshore and released by boat into the sargassum line, according to Mazzarella.
Mazzarella advised people who fnd a sea turtle in distress to call AMITW’s hotline 24/7 at 941-3018434.
By Capt. Danny Stasny Islander Reporter
Anna Maria Island anglers still have time to get in some catch-and-release fshing as snook migrate toward the Gulf in anticipation of their spawn.
July and August present excellent snook fshing opportunities, especially for anglers who like to fsh from shore. As snook prepare to spawn, they gather in schools along the beaches, in the passes of Longboat and Bean Point, and all points between.
Stasny
Typically you’ll see one or more large females being followed by several smaller males, which presents great sight-casting opportunities and the potential to hook into your “personal best”-sized fsh.
Spinning gear or fy tackle can be utilized when targeting the beach snook. Medium-light to medium spinning gear is ideal, as this lighter gear makes casting easier and more accurate, helping the angler when sight-casting to fsh in shallow water.
And although the potential to hook into a large snook is good, you’ll fnd the light spinning gear is suff cient as long as no rocks, mangroves or docks are present — allowing the fsh plenty of room to run without cutting the line. Fly fshing also is ideal for beach fshing.
Both live baits and artifcials work for targeting snook on the beaches. Shiners, pinfsh, mojarras and small whiting are great offerings to present to f sh cruising the shorelines. If no pinf sh are present, a jumbo shrimp will do the job.
As far as artifcials go, crank baits such as lipped plugs are great. Yo-Zuri, Rapala and MirrOlure make some great options and soft plastics like the DOA TerrorEyz or CAL jig are deadly on beach snook.
And don’t forget, if you’re using artifcials, color is a factor. Match what the snook are eating.
If all else fails, there’s always the old standby — a bucktail jig. A straight white bucktail jig can be most effective for fshing in the surf. The addition of some red to this lure can make it deadly.
Now, to fnish the recipe for success on your snook fshing excursion, you’re going to need to plan your fshing around tides and water conditions. Additionally, since you’re fshing along the beach, you’ll need to fsh hours with the least amount of beach traffc.
That’s the hardest one, especially with the popularity of Anna Maria Island nowadays. Early morning just before sunrise can be good, but you really want that sun up in the sky if you’re going to sight-cast to fsh. Afternoons could be good, too, so you have to do some scouting to fnd a stretch of beach that isn’t too crowded with people.
And if you’re up for f shing at night, try areas where structure exists or in the passes.
On a fnal note, don’t forget these fsh are out of season. That means you should handle them with care and they must be released.
Don’t let a local catch you mistreating a snook unless you’re ready to also catch an earful. Islanders love and demand respect for the local snook fshery.
On my Just Reel charters, spotted seatrout are dominating the bite for another week, although they are starting to get some competition from mangrove snapper. Greater numbers of snapper are moving into Tampa Bay and southward to Sarasota Bay. Nearshore
and inshore structure can yield mangrove snapper and the bite should improve over the next few weeks.
Catch-and-release snook fshing is getting good, with targetable fsh along the beaches and passes.
Migratory species, such as mackerel, ladyfsh and jacks, are present around bait schools and structure, which provides good catch-and-release action on medium spinning gear.
I’m also seeing founder — a tasty option for a fsh fry — while bottom fshing around wrecks and reefs.
Capt. Johnny Mattay is fnding plenty of action while fshing offshore in the Gulf of Mexico. While exceeding distances of 30-plus miles, Mattay is putting clients on American red snapper. On most days, limits are being caught in short fashion. Red grouper also are present at these distances and are being caught frequently. Live or frozen baits work well.
In slightly shallow waters in the 20-mile range, Mattay is hooking into dolphin, aka mahi-mahi, while free-lining baits or jigging bait for snappers. He says the schools arrive at random, causing brief stints of pandemonium as everyone becomes hooked up simultaneously. And, just as fast as the fsh arrive, they move on to terrorize other anglers.
As for snappers, mangrove and yellowtail are the frequent catches, with an occasional B-liner in the
Raven Polk, visiting the island area from Hampton, South Carolina, shows off a 26-inch redfish July 18 while fishing with Capt. Danny Stasny of Just Reel Fishing Charters.
mix. Also at these depths, Mattay is encountering large catch-and-release gag grouper. Although they have to be released, these fsh possess tackle-busting capabilities. Therefore, they are most entertaining to the unsuspecting angler planning on reeling up a snapper.
Moving inshore, Mattay is catching respectable amounts of trout on the deeper fats. Targeting snook along the beaches and passes also keeps a rod bent.
Capt. David White says his clients are catching spotted seatrout in abundance while fshing the deeper grass fats of Tampa Bay southward to Sarasota Bay. Free-lining live shiners over the deep fats yields numerous strikes from the trout, resulting in limits of f sh. Ladyf sh, mackerel and jack crevalle are mixed in, adding nuance to this bite.
Catch-and-release snook fshing helps keep White and his sport fshing clients entertained as they sightcast along the beaches and passes to fsh feeding in the shore break.
Lastly, wreck fishing for goliath grouper is White’s crowd pleaser of the week. Fresh-cut chunks of jack crevalle or bonito are attracting goliaths in the 100-pound range.
Send high-resolution photos and fishing reports to fish@islander.org.
The Sarasota Bay Estuary Program is seeking to fll its top position — executive director.
A notice for the post in SBEP’s Bay Refections July newsletter read, “The successful applicant will have demonstrated experience in … fostering and maintaining collaborative approaches to complex environmental issues; the ability to facilitate consensus among diverse and sometimes conflicting stakeholders; success in raising funds from public and private sectors.”
The new hire will succeed David Tomasko, who started more than four years ago at the environmental organization dedicated to “to restoring our area’s greatest and most important natural asset — Sarasota Bay.”
In a July 16 post on LinkedIn, Tomasko wrote, “Our bay is not pristine, but it’s cleaner now than it’s
been in many years, and we’ve just recorded a 19% increase in seagrass coverage, nearly 2,000 acres of new fsheries habitat and more food for manatees and green sea turtles.
“However, it’s time for me to step aside, which was my intention when I was hired. It’s time for a new director to take the reins, and make sure that our hard-fought progress doesn’t slip away from us again. I’m going back to the private sector, to look for opportunities to help other systems in other locations.”
Tomasko added, “I loved my time as director, and so will the next one, I’m sure.”
For more information about the position, go to sarasotabay.org/careers.
To reach SBEP, call 941-955-8085.
— Lisa Neff
By Kevin P. Cassidy Islander Reporter
There was a full slate of sporting activities the week of July 14-20, with indoor soccer and fag football at the center to go along with horseshoe and golf action.
The Center of Anna Maria Island’s summer indoor soccer league, played in the gymnasium, has completed its regular season, leaving a four-team playoff to decide the champs. Poppo’s Taqueria and Westfall’s Lawn Care & Pest Control are 4-1, but Poppo’s earned the No. 1 seed thanks to a better head-to-head record. With the No. 1 spot, Poppo’s will face No. 4 seed Jiffy Lube for its semifnal match July 21 — after press time for The Islander. No. 2 seed Westfall’s Lawn Care takes on No. 3 seed AMI Outftters the same night and the winners will meet in the championship match that night.
The last games of the regular season were played July 14 and might be a preview of the championships. Poppo’s took on Westfall’s in the frst game of the night and in a spirited and sometimes physical game, Poppo’s came away with a 6-3 victory behind four goals from Chandler McRae and two goals from Gunnar Maize. Mason Wilkerson chipped in two assists and Cohen Weber helped preserve the victory with seven saves.
Kyle Holt paced Westfall’s with three goals and Mylo Lee added an assist. Goalie Kyle Castagna fnished with 18 saves — an outstanding performance.
The second game of the night saw AMI Outftters outscore Jiffy Lube 7-4 behind four goals from Wes Saxon and three goals from Koen Klodnicki. Jordan Tobey helped preserve the victory with 19 saves.
Hudson West scored two goals for Jiffy Lube, which also received a goal each from Tucker McRae and Izzy Carroll in the loss.
The 8-10 division has Revive Nutrition on top of the standings with a 4-0-1 record and 3-2 Diamond Turf alone in second place. Moss Builders holds down
Tim Sofran found himself in the winner’s circle twice the week of July 14, first with Gersey Fernandez on winning the July 16 games. He then walked his way to victory in the July 19 games. Islander
third at 1-3-1, while Mi-Box is at 1-4.
The 8-10 playoffs were to kick off July 22 — again after press time — with No. 1 seed Revive Nutrition taking on No. 4 Mi-Box followed by No. 2 seed Diamond Turf taking on No. 3 Moss Builders. The winners will face off for the championship that same night.
The last regular-season 8-10 games were played July 15, starting with Revive’s 4-0 victory over Moss. Parker Svoboda scored two goals and Jackson Griffn and Beau Thomas each added goals in the victory.
Goalie Jensen Hay paced Moss Builders’ efforts with 14 saves in the loss.
The second match of the evening saw Diamond Turf earn a 3-0 shutout victory over Mi-Box. Rafael Price scored two goals and Lucas Urbiola added a goal and made six saves in goal. Beauen Kolb fnished with fve saves in the victory.
Everett Hood, who was under siege all game, made 25 saves to lead Mi-Box in the loss.
Flag football ongoing on center feld
After four weeks of action on the outdoor feld, Slim’s Place and Solid Rock Construction are tied atop the standings with matching 3-0 records, just ahead of Coaster Continent and Salty Printing with 3-1 records. Solid Rock Electrical and Bubble Binz follow with 2-1 records, just ahead of Cortez Pump & Sprinkler at 2-2. Moss Builders is 1-2 and is followed in the standings by 0-3 Edible Cookie Dough Cafe and 0-4 G.I. Bins and Reel Coastal Properties.
Action July 17 kicked off with Bubble Binz outscoring Solid Rock Electrical 48-31 followed by Salty Printing recording an easy 35-12 victory over Cortez Pump. Slim’s blew out Reel Coastal 39-12 in the third game of the night, while the Coasters cruised to a 54-19 victory over G.I. Bins in the fourth game.
The last game of the evening saw Solid Rock hold off Edible Cookie 42-28 behind fve touchdown passes from Tuna McCracken, including two to David Daigle,
Westfall’s Lawn Care goalie Kyle Castagna can’t quite get to a free kick July 14 from Poppo’s player Chandler McRae during 11-14 division indoor soccer action at the community center in Anna Maria. Islander
who fnished with a game-high nine catches. Blake Balais, Jonathan Geller and Erica Nielson each added touchdown catches with Balais also chipping in three interceptions, including one he took to the house.
Dallas Buchholtz threw four touchdown passes, including three to Kiatrell Zachery for Edible Cookie, which also received a touchdown catch from Sequiel Marintez in the loss.
Key Royale golf news
Persistent rains closed the Key Royale course in Holmes Beach July 14, canceling the men’s weekly Stableford match.
Things dried out enough July 15 for the women to play a nine-hole individual-low-net match. Helen Pollock fred a 3-under-par 29 to earn bragging rights. Sue Wheeler was alone in second place at 1-under-par 31 Linda Dorsey took third at 2-over-par 34.
Members played a nine-hole scramble July 17 to close out the week of organized golf. The foursome of Jim Bailey, John Kolojeski, Scott Mitchell and Bill Shuman matched the 2-under-par 30 carded by the team of Joe Coyne, Keven Loveland, Ken Nagengast and Steve Vasbinder, which was matched by the team of Mike Cusato, Chuck Patrick and Deb & Dave Richardson for a three-way tie for frst place.
Horseshoe action
Tim Sofran had a good week at the Anna Maria City Hall horseshoe pits. On July 16, he teamed up with Gersey Fernandes to post the lone 3-0 pool play record and they were the day’s outright champs.
Next, at the July 19 games, Sofran threw a barrage of ringers to walk his way to a 21-2 victory over Bob Hawks and Jay Disbrow.
The action starts 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. It’s free 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
We’re in the midst of Discovery Shark Week 2025, that time of year when night after night we check the outdoor temp, say “nah” to a walk and grab the remote.
Did you catch the underwater dance competition? Did you watch the epic footage of pulse-pounding shark attacks?
Discovery’s celebration of sharks features “ripped-from-the-headlines stories of chilling shark encounters, gripping scenes of predation and fascinating insights and research from renowned experts and scientists,” according to the news release for the event.
The week began July 20 with the premiere of “Dancing with Sharks,” in which divers compete to put together an underwater routine with a shark because “from hammerheads to tigers and nurse sharks, each shark has its own signature dance moves,” according to programming notes.
The programming for July 21 included the premiere of “Great White Sex Battle,” in which male and female great whites compete in challenges to determine which sex is the superior predator, and “In the
Eye of the Storm: Shark Storm,” which is about shark attacks off the Gulf coast in 2024.
On July 22, viewers could learn from “How to Survive a Shark Attack” and three premieres were set to air July 23: “Expedition Unknown: Shark Files” about “the strangest and most disturbing shark mysteries of all-time,” “Expedition X: Malpelo Monster Shark” about tracking a monster shark off Colombia’s coast and “Alien Sharks: Death Down Under” about the venomous Port Jackson Shark and Ghost Shark.
“Surviving Jaws” on July 24 examines the impact of the flm 50 years later and “Florida’s Death Beach” on July 25 focuses on New Smyrna Beach, “The Shark Attack Capital of the World.”
“Battle for Shark Mountain” on July 26 is about sharks hunting Giant Trevally off Mozambique’s coast while “Attack of the Devil Shark” follows a team tracking down a rogue tiger shark in St. Martin.
A scene from “Air Jaws: The Hunt for Colossus” on Discovery during Shark Week. Shark Week continues through July 26. Islander Photo: Cour-
Last year, more than 25 million people watched Shark Week, which Discovery Networks president Howard Lee described in promotional materials as a “cultural phenomenon, blending adrenaline-fueled storytelling with cutting-edge science.”
“Every year, we dive into uncharted waters — discovering new stories, pushing creative limits and celebrating the awe-inspiring world of sharks with fresh eyes,” he said. “This time, the sharks aren’t just circling — they’re dancing.”
What do you think would be the interest in a Discovery Sea Turtle Week? I’d expect the turtle watch volunteers to tune in, but it’s tough to imagine ratings gold in seven nights of programs.
And I guess anything more than a Discovery Dolphin Day seems dull, while 20 minutes watching manatees on TV might be my limit — unless programming minds could deliver a “Manatee Sex Battle” series.
There’s a new option for clean water in homes and offces from the new kids in town.
Waterbird Home Water Solutions, a family-owned business that originated in Ohio, recently purchased a condo offce in Holmes Beach at 315 58th St., Unit J, and they’re ready to do business.
Cory Jackson originated Waterbird and has entered franchising as the AMI co-owner and operator. He and wife Carla also are part-time residents and owners of a trio of vacation rental homes in Anna Maria.
The Jacksons saw frst-hand the need for their service on AMI.
Waterbird, which is known for water filtration systems, also has an established location in Bonita Springs.
In addition to providing water fltration solutions, Waterbird offers plumbing — including backflow installs and testing — and handyman services for a one-stop shop.
“We’re excited to be part of the Holmes Beach and Anna Maria Island communities,” Cory Jackson said. “Our goal is to bring clean water and reliable service to every home, with the care and attention that only a family business can offer.”
For more info, call Jackson at 941-280-5989.
— Bonner Joy
RIGHT: Cory Jackson shows off a new solution of clean water he brings to the island — Waterbird Home Water Solutions — at his new island office, 315 58th St., Suite J, Holmes Beach. Islander Courtesy Photo
Anita Thornton, left, Heaven Garcia, Tiffany Miles, Larry Chatt, Jodi Nichols, Wayne Gunter, Frank Feliciano, Robert McGraw, Jennifer McGraw and Henry McGraw celebrate the opening of Sip and Shop, 419 Pine Ave., Anna Maria, with the Anna Maria Island Chamber of Commerce. The shop has ties to Island Real Estate & Vacations, owned by Chatt and Nichols. The retail location shares space with AMI Coconuts in a 1930s bungalow, formerly an Island Real Estate office. For more information, call 941-900-1433. Islander Photo: Courtesy AMICofC
ABOVE: Pork Belly’s Eatery and Catering Co. owners Eddie and Kate Meek, center, prepare to cut a ribbon and celebrate July 12 with the Manatee Chamber of Commerce their dining establishment in the shopping center at 9516 Cortez Road W., Bradenton. The restaurant specializes in pork belly, ribs and a chicken “bomb,” as well as serves breakfast, lunch and dinner with beer, wine and cocktails. They also offer music trivia Wednesday nights and other entertainment Saturday nights. For more information, call 941-216-4119 or go online to porkbellyseatery.com. Islander Photo: Ingrid McClellan
Thursday, July 24
By Lisa Neff
THIS WEEK
5 p.m. — Anna Maria Island Chamber of Commerce business card exchange, Slicker’s Eatery, 12012 Cortez Road W., Cortez. Fee applies. Info: 941-778-1541.
SAVE THE DATES
• Aug. 21, 4 p.m., Manatee Chamber Small Business of the Year Awards, Palmetto.
• Oct. 18, 10 a.m.-9 p.m., AMI Chamber Bayfest, Anna Maria. Send listings to calendar@islander.org.
By Ryan Paice Islander Reporter
The Center of Anna Maria Island’s fscal year ended, but the fnal numbers aren’t ready for the public.
Nevertheless, it looks like the nonproft may fnish in the black for the fscal year that ended June 30.
The center was $52,960 in the black through May, according to an earlier report from the nonproft.
“We are fortunate that the center will likely fnish the fscal year in the black once again, after accounting for all the program losses and capital repairs incurred from last hurricane season,” executive director Christopher Culhane wrote in a July 16 email to The Islander.
The center was in an even better position through April, when it was $132,651 in the black, but it recorded $79,690.94 in losses over the month of May.
Those losses can be attributed to the second-lowest amount of total program income for a single month — $10,222.46 — in fscal 2024-25.
Despite that low in program income, the center spent $79,727.74 on general and administrative expenses over the same month — the most of any single month for the year.
Those numbers result in a $69,505.28 loss, the largest operations of the year, from operations in May.
That loss was not offset by fundraising over the month, resulting in $8,673.72 in fundraising losses.
While May was a bad month, the beginning of the center’s youth summer camp offerings on June 2 may
The Manatee Chamber of Commerce earlier this month announced the nominees in its annual Small Business of the Year Awards celebration, which will be at 4 p.m. Thursday, Aug. 21, at the Bradenton Area Convention Center, 1 Haben Blvd., Palmetto.
The Center of Anna Maria Island, 407 Magnolia Ave., Anna Maria, is an honoree in the nonproft category. The Island Library, 5701 Marina Drive, Holmes Beach, also is nominated in the nonproft category, as is TIFF’s Initiative and Island Gallery & Studios, now on Old Main in Bradenton but formerly on AMI.
A chamber notice said, “We are thrilled to honor the 89 nominees … who will be recognized through this year’s awards program. Our nominees, fnalists and award winners will be celebrated and we want you to join us.”
For more, call 941-748-3411.
— Lisa Neff
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.
change that outlook for the fnal fscal year.
If the center fnishes fscal 2024-25 in the black, it would mark its second year in a row of doing so after falling $257,887 in the red in fscal 2022-23.
Culhane wrote that work on capital improvements originally scheduled for completion before the end of fscal 2024-25 would begin soon, and those costs would fall to fscal 2025-26.
Some of those improvements include roof and scoreboard repairs, feld and facility maintenance, as well as new fencing.
“Fortunately, the community support we received this past year will help offset many of these capital needs,” Culhane wrote.
The center has not released a budget for fscal year 2025-26, which began July 1.
During a July 16 ribbon-cutting at Bradenton Beach’s Historic Bridge Street Pier, Anna Maria Oyster Bar owner John Horne toasts recovery from storm damages in 2024. Horne praised the resiliency of Anna Maria Island’s community and thanked local leaders and the Bradenton Area Convention and Visitors Bureau, which raised more than $355,000 to aid recovery. The event celebrated AMOB’s comeback — the pier reopened Oct. 17, 2024 — a new outdoor tiki and 10 years on the pier. He also toasted the reopening of other island businesses. Islander Photo: Robert Anderson
HOSPITA L BED FOR sale, $900. 941-4142799.
FOR SA L E; ESCORT Passport 8500 radar detector, $50 and Escort Passport 6800 radar detector, $30. 941-216-4251.
OFFICE CHAIRS: BLACK. Two, like-new, $35 each. 941-920-2494.
ANTIQUE PARTNER DESK: All wood, $500. Inquire at 941-778-7978.
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).
LEGAL NOTICE: Z Illustrious LLC intends to register the fictitious name Apollonia Tech Labs at 206A 73rd St., Holmes Beach, FL 34217, in Manatee County with the Florida Division of Corporations under section 865.09, Florida Statutes.
GOLF CART RENTALS: Fun for residents and tourists! 941-213-5730. www.annamariacartrentals.com
HAVE A BOAT and wanna catch more fish, better bait or learn the water? 50-year local fisherman, your boat, my knowledge. Captain Chris, 941-896-2915.
SUNCOAST BOTTOM PAINTING: Professional bottom painting. Mobile. Call 941-704-9382.
I S L ANDER ARCHIVE U ofF Florida digital newspaper collection at ufdc.ufl.edu.
CAPTAIN FOR HIRE and boat caretaker services: If you need help with your boat on or off the water, call Captain Dan. USCG, retired. 772-486-8085.
WELCOME ABOARD JOYFISH Charters for private fishing, sunset cruises, and dolphin watching. Check out joyfishcharters.com or follow us on Facebook. Call to reserve, 941840-3181.
ROSER CH U RCH SEEKS part-time Assistant Facilities Administrator to cover Friday to Sunday and special events. Read the job description RoserChurch.com/job-opportunity
NOW HIRING HANDYMAN: Full-time professional services. $18 an hour and up, based on experience. Call JayPros, 941-962-2874.
REPORTER WANTED: Full- to part-time. Print media, newspaper experience required. Apply via email with letter of interest to news@ islander.org.
KIDS FOR HIRE ads are FREE for up to three weeks for Island youths under 16 looking for work. Ads must be placed by email, send to classifieds@islander.org.
IS Y O U R HOME or office in need of some cleaning? Well, I’m your girl! L ocal, reliable, professional! Please, give me a call or text, 941-773 -0461.
C L EANING: VACATION, CONSTR U CTION, residential, commercial and windows. Licensed and insured. 941-756-4570.
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BIC Y C L E REPAIRS: J ust4Fun at 5358 Gulf Drive can do most any bicycle repair at a reasonable cost. Pick-up and delivery available. 941-896-7884.
API’S DRY WA LL REPAIR: I look forward to servicing your drywall repair needs. Call 941524-8067 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 928-587-1309. 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 941-447-7737 or email to mrfort5001@gmail. com We are available 24/7.
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O U R SERVICES: C L EANING, 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 941-404-9163.
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 727-6235050 or visit u-plus-me.com
GOT DIRT Y WINDOWS? Free estimates/ insured. Five-star customer service rating. “We want to earn your business. Downeast Window Cleaning, 207-852-6163.
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.
IN-HOME S U PPORT: 26-plus years’ experience. Tammy Roberts, 941-580-4440.
ACHA U FFER4 U FOR TRANSPORTATION anywhere in Florida. Properly insured and over 40 years in Bradenton. Dennis, 941812-5930.
ONECA LL C L EAN U 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.
AFFORDAB L E PRESS U RE WASHING and small job painting. 941-356-1456.
AMI AIRPORT SHUTTLE Guy: We pick up from Tampa, St. Petersburg and Sarasota airports. Up 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.
Continued
SKI LL ED HAND Y MAN, 63, retired. Expert repairs, plumbing, electrical, odd jobs. Ties to island. Quality guaranteed. 704-5607254.
B U SINESS-TO-B U SINESS J D’s Window Cleaning looking for storefront jobs in Holmes Beach. I make dirty windows sparkling clean. 941-920-3840.
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, 941-524-2248. CAC184228.
CLEAN TECH MOBILE Detailing. At your location. Cars, boats, RVs. Call or text Billie for an appointment. 941-592-3482.
CONNIE’S L ANDSCAPING INC. Residential and commercial. Full-service lawn maintenance, landscaping, cleanups, hauling and more! Insured. 941-713-1965.
CO LL INS L ANDSCAPE L IGHTING: Outdoor lighting, landscaping, irrigation services and maintenance. 941-279-9947. M J C24373@ 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” 941-720-0770.
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. 941-722-8792.
LANE’S SCREENING SERVICES: Replace your window, door or lanai screens. Many screen options available. Retired veteran serving our community! Free estimates, call 941-7055293.
L OOKING FOR AN Y home improvement? JRCC Home Improvement, handyman service can get the job done. Please, contact us at 413-246-2410. 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.
DONA L D PERKINS PAINTING LL C. Interior/exterior/pressure washing. Island references. dperkinspaint@hotmail.com. 941705-7096.
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TETI TILE: 40 years’ experience in Delaware, now on AMI and surrounds. Tile, marble, murals. Free estimates. Call John Teti, 302983-5774.
TRUE TONE PAINTING: Painting, power washing, epoxy floors. 941-224-4020.
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, 864-884-3380.
CALL HYDRO CLEAN. 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, 941-962-2874.
ANNA MARIA GULF beachfront vacation rentals. One- two- and three-bedroom units, all beachfront. www.amiparadise.com. 941-7783143.
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PERICO ISLAND PATIO home: 3BR/2BA, privacy wall/gate, two-car garage, single floor, high ceilings, screened lanai. Call or text Alison, 859-771-6423.
2026 SEASONAL RENTAL: Just one block from the beach, Single-story 2BR/2BA private residence, screened patio. No smoking/no pets. December-April. 64th Street, Holmes Beach. Call 813-833-4926.
CENTRAL HOLMES BEACH, 3BR/2BA completely remodeled, walk to beach, school, trolley, shopping. Annual, $2,595/month. 941713-6743.
AVAI L AB L E NOW! ANN U A L 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.
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. 941807-1405.
2BR/2BA SECOND F L OOR condo with pool available in Holmes Beach. Available for 2025/26 season beginning November 2025. Call Jack, 312-835-2323 for more details and link to site with pictures and details.
HO L MES BEACH WESTBA Y Cove condo. Second floor, 2BR/2BA, large lanai with bay view and one block to Gulf. Pools, tennis, pickleball. December - March, $3,800/ month. January - March, $4,000/month. 941778-8456. terryaposporos@gmail.com
STUNNING FURNISHED Top-level direct ocean view. 2BR/2BA. Annual or seasonal, available starting Aug.15. Holmes Beach, direct beach access. Owner-operated. Contact 201-3176922.
FOR RENT: 1BR/1BA AND 2BR/2BA in the 55-plus Meadowcroft community off 59th Street W., Bradenton. Call or text Chris for information, 941-580-7665.
RENTA L : FIVE MI L ES to AMI. 2BR/2BA furnished ranch condo. December through January. $3,000/month. 440-759-3786.
I S L ANDER ARCHIVE U ofF Florida digital newspaper collection at ufdc.ufl.edu.
WINNIE MCHA L E, REA LTOR, 941-5046146. Dalton Wade Real Estate. You need an aggressive and experienced Realtor in today’s market! Selling island homes, Sarasota and Bradenton areas. Multi-milliondollar producer! “Selling Homes - Making Dreams Come True.”
WATERFRONT 3BR/2BA MAN U FACT U RED 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.
RETIREMENT FIXER: 1BR/BA TRAILER: Partially remodeled. Bradenton Beach, $99,999. One minute walk to beach/bay. 831-212-2606.
HANDYMAN SPECIAL: 1BR/1BA mobile on Anna Maria Island. $106,500. Real Estate Mart, 941356-1456.
LOCATION-PLUS HOMES: All minutes to beach and shopping. Palm Gardens, 3BR/2BA, twocar garage, caged pool and RV/boat storage. $467,000. Tanglewood Gardens, upgraded 3BR/2BA, two-car garage, community pool and courts, $550,000. Northwest Bradenton custom-built 2BR/2BA, two-car garage, community pool, spa, boat docks, $795,000. Longboat Key northern village, brand-new home coming soon. 3BR/2BA, two-car garage, water view, $1,600,000. Call Fred at Real Estate Mart, 941356-1456.
