Every little thing gonna be all right….
Shack sale in the books, now county property
On Jan. 8, at their first meeting of the new year, the Manatee Board of County Commissioners received an update on the acquisition of the Seafood Shack property in Cortez from deputy county administrator Bryan Parnell.
The property consists of approximately 5.9 acres of uplands and two submerged land leases of 2.9 acres. Commissioners were informed that the county closed on the $13 million purchase Dec. 31, 2024.
“The primary purpose for this property will be a public boat ramp,” said Parnell. “We will work with the board in the coming months to ensure that we have the proper scope of work before we start with design and construction.”
The marina suffered substantial damages from Hurricanes Helene and Milton in September-October and those
damages were not addressed by Parnell.
Elliott Falcione, executive director of the Bradenton Area Convention and Visitors Bureau, an agency of the Manatee County Tourism Development Council, responded to The Islander about the Seafood Shack and space for the Gulf Islands Ferry at the Seafood Shack marina by email Jan. 10, saying: “We will at some point suggest to the board of county commissioners to look at overnighting the two currently used water ferries at that future location, and possibly adding the seafood shack to the route system.”
Falcione also said the BACVB plans to continue to suggest to the county that they utilize the tourism tax and pursue grant opportunities for the ferry operation. “At no point, do we want to con-
sider utilizing general funds for the water ferry program.”
“Looking for a good opportunity on this one,” Falcione added.
Vandyk Properties, a Canadianbased development company, listed the Seafood Shack, a landmark restaurant on Sarasota Bay and the surrounding properties on the north side of Cortez in April 2023 for at least $15 million.
Vandyk Properties is a privatelyowned real estate development and investment management company specializing in luxury condominium developments. It has made other land acquisitions in the Sarasota-Bradenton area, including One88, a five-story, $17 million residential building in downtown Sarasota.
The Islander reported in May 2023 that Vandyke opted to not pursue the
property as a development site after realizing incompatibility with their objectives to develop luxury condominiums.
Vandyk bought the property in 2014, including the 650-seat restaurant and banquet hall, 100-slip marina and six acres. The purchase also included Annie’s Bait and Tackle Shop, 4334 127th St. W., and a home site at 4327 127th St. W.
The marina was originally built in 1971 by Ham Jones, who built the restaurant a year later and operated the restaurant and marina — including a paddlewheel party boat for many years — until his health failed.
For more information about Manatee County government, visit mymanatee org or call 941-748-4501.
— Bonner Joy
Best News on Anna Maria Island Since 1992
Popular reggae band The Wailers draws a crowd Jan. 11 to the athletic field at the Center of Anna Maria Island. Islander Photo: Jacob Merrifield
The Seafood Shack, post-Milton on Oct. 11. Islander
Photo: Jacob Merrifield
The Seafood Shack December 2022, in better times, including a rainbow above the restaurant. Islander File
Photo
What’s shaking in Anna Maria? What’s
Anna Maria Mayor Mark Short took time Jan. 10 from a busy week to provide a summary of actions for the city in the past week:
In the Jan. 9 commission meeting, John Lynch was elected by the seated commissioners to fill the commissioner spot vacated by Jon Crane. That term expires in November of this year.
The city’s FEMA consultant, Del Schwalls, made a presentation about the results of the city’s CRS audit and FEMA and Florida programs available to fund part of the costs to renovate and/or actually raise properties to a higher elevation.
There was standing-room-only in the chambers for this presentation and a number of people stayed to ask more specific questions of Schwalls.
The OPPAGA study was released Jan. 8 to all three island mayors, who also received a letter cosigned by Will Robinson and Jim Boyd.
I shared the key points from the letter during our Jan. 9 commission meeting.
Included is the letter from Robinson and Boyd (online at islander.org). My copy includes shaded text, which I read aloud at the meeting and there was applause from several people in attendance when I read “Merging or eliminating cities could negatively....”
I believe the request from Robinson-Boyd to provide them feedback on possible services to streamline is reasonable. However, such streamlining of services must save costs for our taxpayers and also must not result in a reduction in the quality of services to our residents.
Certain items in the OPPAGA study as it pertains to the City of Anna Maria were not completely factual or, I believe, “should have been further clarified.”
For example, the report stated we have an unfunded pension liability of over $947k. We do not.
The report did not mention that both Holmes Beach and Anna Maria reduced its millage rates in
up Holmes Beach?
2024, while Anna Maria’s reduction was more significant — from 2.05 to 1.65. This millage rate reduction would, in my opinion, have a significant impact to any reader of this report who was unaware of that fact.
For 2025, the mayor reported in a Jan. 10 email that his goals include:
• Complete the hurricane recovery and get the city back to normal.
• Make significant progress on the rebuild of the city pier.
• Complete phases of the Pine Ave. project that pertain to the sections of Pine currently without sidewalks.
• Focus efforts to improving resiliency by improving our stormwater systems, including pipes and swales, infiltration, etc., and devise a concrete plan for future improvements.
• Work with the other island cities to create one island voice for matters that may arise and create challenges for all of us.
Also during the week, The Islander learned the Anna Maria city clerk, LeAnn Addy, will soon step away from her clerk duties and focus on financial matters as treasurer.
Addy has been the city clerk/treasurer since 2017.
“Due to the increased workload over the years, Mayor Short has reorganized and he decided to split the city clerk role from the city treasurer role,” said Addy.
As treasurer, Addy said she will “focus more on grants, appropriations and other funding that may be available to keep our mileage rate down.”
The city clerk position is being advertised on the city website, cityofannamaria.com, the Florida Association of City Clerks website and Indeed.
A city clerk job description can be viewed on the city website under departments, human resources.
And, from Holmes Beach, Mayor Judy Titsworth texted The Islander Jan. 11 to state:
▼ Modern Chop Happy Hour 11:30-6 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 all nite in the lounge.
As for the OPPAGA study, I am relieved that it is over.
I have had great communication with state leaders and now that we have a majority on the county board that truly care about our island cities and who have the utmost respect for home rule.
I believe these next 2 years will allow me the time and energy to focus on quality of life issues and improving the lives of our citizens.
anna Maria city commissioners voted Jan. 9 to appoint John lynch to serve in the fifth seat on the commission and watched as he was sworn to serve by city clerk leann addy. Islander Courtesy
Photo: CofaM/Debbie Haynes
What’s up ContInueD froM Page 1
I did have communication with Robinson prehurricanes regarding services that we could provide for the neighboring cities and now that the elections are over and our recovery effort is nearing completion, I will once again reach out to AM and BB to identify needs and efficiencies that could be obtained by sharing resources.
Big haul out nears completion
Holmes Beach city field, adjacent to Holmes Beach City Hall at 5801 Marina Drive, is being cleared Dec. 10 of storm debris — the remainder of the yard waste — this week and next, within the next 10 days. It then will be time for field restoration, according to city engineer sage Kamiya, head of public works. field restoration will take several months, he said, before it will be ready for recreation and festival use, “but we are looking forward to getting it back to normal as fast as we can!”
Islander Courtesy Photo: CoHB
Looking south, looking cold
an aerial photo from the north end by the sandbar restaurant looking south Jan. 6 shows another cold front moving in. even for winter on anna Maria Island, weather watchers agree, we seldom see so many days — and nights — of cold temperatures in a row. some nights have been below 50 degrees and with a wind chill that dips to 46 degrees. the gulf of Mexico water temperatures are hovering near 62 degrees and the bay waters are colder at 55-58. Brrrrr. the fish and crabs are nearly as cold as they get without some mortalities. Islander
Photo: Jacob Merrifield
Artists, craftspeople hit the beach
After a delayed start to the season on Anna Maria Island, the long-awaited return of art shows to Coquina Beach is happening Jan. 18-19.
The Coquina Beach Winter & Craft Show is juried by a panel of experts and reviewed for originality, uniqueness and creativity with a focus on handmade items from dreamers and artists.
The show features dozens of artists and crafters, including painters, wood workers, yard art, jewelry, bath and body products, sculptures, pottery and many other refreshing creations.
Vendors will open 10 a.m.-5 p.m. Saturday and Sunday at a new event space on the southside of the beach.
Blue Ribbon, the show producer, is asking show patrons to help those people who are experiencing hardship by bringing a nonperishable food item or two for donation to the Roser Church Food Pantry. Collection stations for food items and clean clothing will be at all Blue Ribbon island events this year.
Mark your calendars for a lineup of Blue Ribbon shows on the island this season:
FEED the Peeps Art & Craft show, Roser Church, Friday & Saturday, Feb 7-8.
Coquina Beach February Art & Craft Show, Feb. 22-23 — relocated from Holmes Beach City Field. Coquina Beach Spring Art & Craft Show, April 5-6.
Blue Ribbon has extended several opportunities to assist local businesses, artists and makers to get the word out about what they do with a free “AMILocal” section, where local restaurants, resorts, vacation services and shops can connect and offer their services to patrons of the art shows — “No sales and no high pitches, just an opportunity to get know and support island businesses,” according to Blue Ribbon’s Danielle Lynch.
Participants in AMILocal are encouraged to sell gift cards for future use.
Blue Ribbon also is offering retail outlets that may not a have reopened due to storm damage and repairs, or those businesses looking for more exposure, twofor-one booth spaces.
For local island artists and artisans, all booth spaces are discounted 50% with payment plans available to help get back into sales.
To sign up or obtain more information, call 231350-8277 or email bueribboneventsllc@gmail.com
Island happenings
It’s time for B-I-N-G-O
Judy Pruitt of the Annie Silver Community Center in Bradenton Beach has announced the startup of bingo nights at the center at 6 p.m. Thursday, Jan. 9.
Games will continue on Thursdays through March 27. Also at the center, organizers say they will provide refreshments and treats for bingo players, including cake, coffee and soft drinks. They’re also hoping to add pizza to the menu on bingo nights.
Pruitt says they need volunteers to help at bingo and the three community dinners they also host.
The first dinner will start at 5 p.m. Tuesday, Jan. 28, when the center will host a BBQ.
Pruitt said the center organizers realize it’s been “hard for our island neighbors for the past three months, and therefore dinner will be by donation.
She invited people to “come enjoy some down time for an hour or two and visit.”
The Annie Silver Community Center is at 103 23rd St. N., Bradenton Beach. For more information, or to volunteer, Pruitt can be reached at 941-224-1973.
Insight, impact on library speaker’s agenda
The Island Library will be host to the Honorable Tom Reynolds, retired member of the U.S. House of Representatives from western New York, as the second speaker in the Friends of the Island Library’s annual Travel and Lecture Series at 2 p.m. Thursday, Jan. 16.
Doors will open at 1:30 p.m. There is no reserved seating.
Congressman Reynolds will offer insights into the 2024 election and how it will impact the 119th Congress.
After serving in the Erie County Legislature and New York State Assembly for more than 20 years, Reynolds served as a member of the U.S. House for
duced show at Coquina Beach in May 2023. Islander file Photo
Pines Park residents face closure, possible short-term tenancy
Over the weekend of Jan. 3-5, residents, neighbors and friends of the Pines Trailer Park were shocked by an announcement from the park owners.
It seems an email was received by residents in advance of a formal notice of the park’s closure.
A resident told The Islander Jan. 6 that the letter from the investors is the only communication they’ve seen from the owners since Helene and Milton and “it took them 100 days to send out something official.”
The resident whose name was withheld also commented: “The greed is out of this world.”
The owner/investors stated they regret the decision, but they also state in the letter that “Pines Park is no longer sustainable as a trailer park and must be closed.”
However, reading on, the owners write:
“Pending city approval, one option we are considering is allowing continued month-to-month tenancy for some residents … for up to a couple of years.”
Louis Najmy, speaking Jan. 6 by text for the Pines Park Investors, said “Like any business that suffers property being so badly damaged and the inability to generate any meaningful level of revenue, then it has to shut down and re-structure.”
He wrote in a another text message Jan. 10 that he had no further comment.
The undated letter was shared with The Islander by an unnamed resident, who said it came by email, follows:
speaker ContInueD froM Page 4 10 years, including leadership roles on the House Ways and Means Committee.
Since retiring from public service, Reynolds is a senior policy adviser with the Washington, D.C., lobbying firm Holland & Knight.
The Friends of the Island library is a non-profit organization dedicated to enhancing public library resources and programs and expanding library services beyond what tax dollars alone can fund.
For information, contact Nancy Deal, president, at nrd1066@hotmail.com or call 941-778-4255.
Dear Pines Park Residents,
We are writing to you as a courtesy to provide transparency and keep you informed regarding the future of Pines Park. Over the past months, we have conducted extensive financial modeling and assessments to determine the viability of maintaining the park.
Unfortunately, we have come to the difficult conclusion that Pines Park is no longer sustainable as a trailer park and must be closed.
We deeply regret this decision and the impact it may have on each of you. Our sincere hope was to continue operating Pines Park, but external factors — including significant financial and safety challenges — have made this impossible. We wanted to ensure that you were not left in the dark as we move forward.
Official Notices and Next Steps
We will be distributing formal notices in the coming weeks, as required by state law. These notices will include all necessary legal information and details to guide you through this process. Along with these notices, we will provide agreements designed to assist you in transitioning out of the park, as well as information about resources available to support you during this time.
Additionally, pending city approval, one of the options we are considering is allowing continued month-to-month tenancy for some residents. This arrangement could extend up to a couple of years, depending on circumstances and the overall timeline for vacating the property.
Reasoning for the Closure
We understand the importance of explaining our decision and would like to share the key factors that led us to this outcome:
1. Financial challenges: The park is operating at an unsustainable income level, with high delinquency rates (approximately 75%). While some residents have expressed concerns about amenities needing restoration, such projects—such as waterfront docks—would take years to complete and require significant invest-
ment. Combined with delinquency issues, it is not financially viable to operate under these conditions.
2. Restoration and compliance: The required renovations for many units to meet the 50% rule for updates would involve considerable investment, which we are aware many residents are unwilling or unable to make, if permits were to even be issued. Additionally, the park’s compliance with fire codes presents a complex and costly challenge, as addressing one unit’s compliance issues often triggers a chain reaction requiring others to come into compliance.
3. Resident concerns and safety: We have received numerous requests from residents wishing to relinquish their deeds, but as a property management team, we are not in the business of owning trailers. Furthermore, the park has faced yearly flooding and other storm-related damages that create unsafe conditions for residents and untenable liabilities for management. This, coupled with instances of harassment toward our team and city officials, has exacerbated the challenges of maintaining operations.
4. Long-term viability: The cumulative impact of delinquency, loss of units, and the need for significant investments makes it clear that the park’s current model is no longer feasible. Additionally, management cannot continue to bear the risk of another storm coming and once again losing almost all income, all of which is essential to remain afloat.
Final Thoughts
We want to express our heartfelt apologies for the inconvenience and stress this decision may cause. Please, know that we are committed to supporting you through this transition and will provide all available resources to ease the process.
Thank you for your understanding, and please feel free to reach out to us with any questions or concerns. We will continue to communicate updates and ensure that you are fully informed every step of the way.
Pines Park Investors LLC
Editor’s note: The letter is attached to the story online at islander.org.
Good news, good news
I don’t know wheter to say “Hurrah,” “Hallelujah” or “Told you so.”
I can recall a time when we coordinated a flying banner over the grounds of the Ringling Museum during the Medieval Fair — for which I did advertising and marketing in another lifetime — that said “Huzzah.”
All the expletives work well when considering the outcome of the OPPAGA study.
We couldn’t have wished for better news.
What began in a thick air of contentious spite and revenge from a county official (KVO), who then enlisted two local state officials to attain vengeance on the island communities and Mayor Judy Titsworth in particular has ended in a state study that concludes the island cities are indeed, better off as is.
Rep. Will Robinson and Sen. Jim Boyd co-authored a letter to announce the “good news,” that the state study confirmed what we knew all along — that “merging or eliminating cities could negatively impact the unique and special character of the island and could have a detrimental impact on issues like building height.”
But they also announce that through the process, “we have maintained no personal agenda or set conclusions about what should happen but, instead, our goal has always been to use the OPPAGA independent study as a tool to assist in finding areas of efficiency with the ultimate goal of lowering property taxes.”
And to my ears, that’s a big stretch.
They also state, “We have spent the last year meeting with residents and business owners on the island and those meetings have provided great feedback.” But they did not hold public meetings or return calls or emails from Islander reporters to discuss the study.
They state, “Residents and business owners have consistently told us that finding ways to drive down taxes is very important, but not at the cost of losing the unique character of the island we all love.”
But the news from Boyd and Robinson comes after the fact with a great deal of sugar glaze and icing.
If they lived here all their lives and loved Anna Maria Island, why did they have doubts? Why did they jump on the train wreck with KVO?
They maintain the lower height of buildings on the Island “must be valued and maintained at all costs.”
And for many years well-meaning people who stepped up to run for office were grilled on maintaining the three-story building height limits.
Well. They fi nally recognize what we knew all along. Hurrah.
— Bonner Joy, news@islander.org
Good reader
To be a good restauranteur, you have to love food. To be a good writer, you have to love words.
Sean Murphy is both, and for years I’ve been telling him he missed his calling and needs to be writing more often. He writes with a unique voice, and I so enjoyed his recent contributions to The Islander.
OPPAGA goals:
State Sen. Jim Boyd and Rep. Will Robinson stated in their Jan. 9 letter to the island mayors:
We stand unified in our common goals and ready to continue this great work with you all on the following:
1. Keep and maintain our Island cities, which are so special and unique to our area.
2. Streamline services that "could result in savings for island residents." (per the OPPAGA study)
▼ Publisher, editor Bonner Joy, news@islander.org
▼ Editorial Joe Bird, editorial cartoonist Kevin Cassidy, kevin@islander.org Jack elka, jack@jackelka.com
▼ Contributors
Jacob Merrifield
Capt. Danny stasny, fish@islander.org
▼ Advertising Sales ads@islander.org
▼ info@, accounting@, classifieds@, subscriptions@islander.org
▼ Distribution urbane Bouchet ross roberts
Judy loden Wasco
▼ Webmaster Wayne ansell
All others: news@islander.org
Sean has been such a good, loyal member of this community for so many years. Now I think he would be such a good “Contributor” to The Islander. I’m sure he’s not looking for the pressure of deadlines, but even once a month would be a treat for your readers.
— Lou Strobhar, Holmes Beach
Explore The Islander archives
The Islander was invited in the 1990s to take part in a pilot project with the University of Florida George A. Smathers Libraries. We donated the collection of newspapers beginning with the first issue in 1992 and they’re all there for you to explore. Look for The Islander in the UofF Florida digital newspaper collection at ufdc.ufl.edu.
3. If necessary, enact additional state or local regulations to prohibit buildings going higher than allowable under your local codes.
4. Continue to find ways to balance the quality of life of the Island residents with the ability for Manatee County visitors to access and park on the Island to enjoy a day at our beautiful beaches.
Please, go online to islander.org to read their letter in its entirety, as well as the OPPAGA study and a letter from Bradenton Beach on possible shared services.
Letters to the editor
The Islander welcomes your opinion letters
And, please, consider a digital subscription to Islander.org for your holiday gift-giving. It’s only $36 a year to keep up with all the news about the AMI community, including breaking news and storm alerts.
Connections on AMI
Anna Maria: Mayor Mark Short, 941-708-6130, ammayor@cityofannamaria.com.
Bradenton Beach : Mayor John Chappie, 941778-1005, mayor@cityofbradentonbeach.com.
Holmes Beach: Mayor Judy Titsworth, 941-7085800, hbmayor@holmesbeachfl.org.
Please, submit your opinion with name, address and contact phone number to news@islander.org. Only your name and city are published. Letters may be edited for space and style. There is a 250 word limit and anonymous letters will not be published.
Skimming online
Website: islander.org
Facebook: islandernewspaper
Instagram: @theislanderami
News alerts: Register at islander.org
E-edition: Subscribe at islander.org
Submit news: news@islander.org
Flashback 2024
one more flashback, sadly omitted from the pages two weeks ago: Jack sparrow aka Maverick fortenberry, 21 months, reaches for treasure in May 2024 at the Holmes Beach Police Department tent during snooks adams Kids Day with the anna Maria Island Privateers.
You can peruse the Islander newspaper archive, dating back to its launch in november 1992, at ufdc. ufl.edu.
Murphy
Flashlights and Floods
Helene turned The Doctor’s Office into flotsam and
jetsom, floating in bad chocolate milk.
The chocolate milk mix was made up of seawater, diesel oil and a very fine silt.
The chocolate milk carried the silt into every possible nook and cranny in search of electrical contacts and control boards.
The fine silt then sat patiently in anticipation of contact with an electron — and then blew up.
The dishwasher burst into flames on day three and the ice machine threw three foot sparks on day four.
The entire island was infested with small bombs in air conditioners and electric cars.
Teslas were a favorite.
Nearly every restaurant has an electronic ordering device. Waiters punch their mistakes into a keyboard and the machine sends a garbled message to the kitchen where the chefs then prepare the wrong thing.
That’s what happens when the system is working well.
Our little ordering machine had been splashed but not drowned.
We thought it might work. It did not.
The problem was located way the heck up in the least accessible part of the device.
We needed a flashlight.
We spotted one on a top shelf in the kitchen. We climbed over the flotsam and jetsom to the flashlight. It didn’t work. Batteries?
We kept a battery box in the event of a hurricane. We found it outside in the planter with an array of drowned basil and thyme.
None of the batteries worked. The Energizer Bunny had drowned in the flood.
The light would not come on. Maybe the bulb?
Salted chocolate milk had corroded the contacts
on the copper clips in the bulb.
We discussed cleaning them with a toothbrush.
Of course no one had a toothbrush.
I called a halt. “I have a better idea.”
I took the flashlight and the little electronic ordering machine out to the garden, placed them on a flat stone and we took turns jumping up and down on them.
Then we sat in the garden looking at the pieces of the little electric ordering device while drinking tequila.
That ordering machine was not an isolated incident. It was rather the general rule for everything mechanical on the island for the past three months.
After Helene, nothing worked, and things were not where they were supposed to be.
Nothing has been simple. It has all been harder than it needed to be.
We are tired of it. Our eyes bespeak a tired and disillusioned person. We are people thirsting for a simple normalcy, for things that work.
We will get better, but we are not better yet. We deserve a break.
Give yourself a break. Get some medicine. Visit the Doctor’s Office.
The Doctor’s Office — great food and amazing cocktails — in a reasonable amount of time.
We recommend tequila for the broken stuff in your life.
— 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 as well as an outdoor “garden” dining area with entertainment — when weather permits.
OPPAGA study favors ‘keep and maintain’ Anna Maria Island
District
THE FLORIDA HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES
Representative Will Robinson 71st District
January 9, 2025
Via
Mayor
Mayor
Dear Mayors Chappie, Short, and Titsworth:
Our community has faced significant challenges over the past few months due to devastating storms that caused unimaginable pain and suffering for many. However, since the storms, we take pride in the progress we've made together on our Island's road to recovery. While we still have a long way to go, we are grateful for your tireless efforts that have brought us to this point. The effectiveness of your emergency messages, the outstanding work of emergency management officials, and, most importantly, the dedication of law enforcement saved countless lives
As you all know, we have met several times before the storms about finding ways for the cities on Anna Maria Island to work better together. The Manatee County Legislative Delegation unanimously approved the Office of Program Policy Analysis and Government Accountability ("OPPAGA") to study and provide an independent view of how governments are operating on the Island and whether there are things you all could be doing to make things more efficient. We have received the study and have enclosed it with this letter.
Through this entire process we have maintained no personal agenda or set conclusions about what should happen but, instead, our goal has always been to use the OPPAGA independent study as a tool to assist in finding areas of efficiency with the ultimate goal of lowering property taxes. The top two areas we hear from all our constituents are the high cost of insurance and property taxes. We have recently passed legislation to help lower these costs, but more work needs to be done.
We truly value our relationship with you all as partners in what we believe is a common goal of finding efficiencies and streamlining services, which would result in lowering property taxes. We have spent the last year meeting with residents and business owners on the Island and those meetings have provided great feedback. Residents and business owners have consistently told us that finding ways to drive down taxes is very important,
froM tHe oPPaga stuDY: the florida legislature directed oPPaga to analyze the potential benefits of consolidating local government services for the three incorporated cities on anna Maria Island�the City of anna Maria,
but not at the cost of losing the unique character of the Island we all love. The uniqueness and the low-density island feel are what makes Anna Maria Island so incredibly special.
The OPPAGA study confirms what we have discussed over the past year. Merging or eliminating cities could negatively impact the unique and special character of the Island and could have a detrimental impact on issues like building height. The lower height of buildings on the Island must be valued and maintained at all costs We have been very clear that Anna Maria Island must never become a high-rise community and anything that would cause that to happen would be a nonstarter to us.
The OPPAGA study mentioned several possible areas for streamlining services, including law enforcement, emergency management, and contracted services. While consolidating three law enforcement agencies is a valid goal, it may be a challenge to streamline for several reasons, including the different retirement systems of the City of Holmes Beach and Bradenton Beach. You all may want to look at whether these systems could work better together and possibly fall within the Florida Retirement System. We have enclosed a letter from Mayor Chappie, that does a wonderful job of laying out further options for consideration to streamline services. We would note that we have spoken to the Manatee County Government and the Manatee County School District about finding ways for them to become more efficient and the need to lower taxes. We are proud of what Florida has accomplished over the last several years, including passing some of the most significant tax cuts in history, even with a growing population of nearly 1,000 residents per day coming to our great state. We know that cutting taxes and finding efficiencies is challenging, but we believe it is possible to accomplish this with hard work and now with this OPPAGA study as a roadmap.
We stand unified in our common goals and ready to continue this great work with you all on the following:
1. Keep and maintain our Island cities, which are so special and unique to our area.
2. Streamline services that "could result in savings for island residents." [per the OPPAGA study]
3. If necessary, enact additional state or local regulations to prohibit buildings going higher than allowable under your local codes.
4. Continue to find ways to balance the quality of life of the Island residents with the ability for Manatee County visitors to access and park on the Island to enjoy a day at our beautiful beaches.
Our residents should demand that all their public officials, even in areas of disagreement, continue to communicate, find common ground, and work together. We have always valued you as partners in the above goals, and we have never lost our ability to communicate with each other. Thank you for all you have done for our great community and for helping restore and rebuild our Island. As we head into the 2025 Legislative Session, we would like to hear from you prior to February 13, 2025, on ways you all believe services can be streamlined and better coordinated.
Sincerely,
Representative Will Robinson Senator Jim Boyd Enclosures
the City of Holmes Beach, and the City of Bradenton Beach�and present options for future government structure for anna Maria Island.
Executive Summary anna Maria Island Has three Cities
anna Maria Island is a seven-mile-long barrier island off florida’s central western coast just west of the City of Bradenton and part of Manatee County. the island is made up of three cities—the City of
Tiki & Kitty’s
Tiki and Kitty are leading the way to their favorite shops and boutiques to find unique vintage accents and decor for your 2025 home.
Blessed and Distressed is a tastefully designed store — so inviting you’ll want to pull up a chair — with collectibles and work by local artists at Palma Sola Square, around the corner from Winn-Dixie. It offers vintage, upcycled, shabby chic and artsy vendors. You won’t be disappointed.
T&K love Cat’s Meow, an 8,000 square-foot marketplace! Their vendors offer coastal, cottage, beach, antique, boho, midcentury modern and other home decor styles. They also offer vintage to fine jewelry and vintage albums.
You might want to lace up your skates, as this large, former skating rink has plenty to offer bargain hunters and anyone seeking antiques and unique decor. You don’t want to miss this collection.
We’ll definitely make a stop next door at Blue
Flamingo, home to hip and trendy upcycled and repurposed goods, furniture and decor, garden features, candles, jewelry and work by local artisans. They also offer Dixie Belle paints.
We promise, you will find treasures aplenty.
Scavengers Marketplace has plenty of vendors to capture your wallet at the Palmetto store, 2100 U.S. 301. There’s always something new to entice you among the vendors’ eclectic collections.
FYI: Scavengers also carries Fusion Paints. The Vintage Vine Market is a favorite for Tiki and Kitty, who love the fine vintage wares and items with a whimsical twist at this store in historic Old Manatee along the newest section of the Bradenton Riverwalk. The location in the 1910 building oozes charm. And they take select consignments by appointment.
And don’t forget, tell people you meet along the way, “The Islander sent me.”
Please, see OppaGa, neXt Page
anna Maria, the City of Holmes Beach, and the City of Bradenton Beach. government services are Provided by Both County and City governments
anna Maria Island residents receive government services from both Manatee County and municipal governments. funding for the municipal services comes mainly from property taxes (ad valorem) for each of the cities. for each of the cities on anna Maria Island, per capita revenues generally matched per capita expenditures, and each city had some outstanding debts and reserve funding.
the three Cities on anna Maria Island Could streamline government services
there are some municipal services on the island that could be streamlined through interlocal agreements, contracts, or government reorganization. this streamlining of services could result in savings for island residents who are currently paying for both city and county services, such as with law enforcement and emergency management services.
oPPaga explored Considerations for four options to restructure local government on anna Maria Island there are precedents for municipal mergers and dissolutions in florida. oPPaga explored four options for the local government structure of anna Maria Island and identified several important considerations for each option. the options are 1. maintaining the status quo and leaving the
existing three cities on anna Maria Island as is;
2. combining the three cities into one new city;
3. including the island as part of unincorporated Manatee County; or
4. combining all three cities into the City of Bradenton.
Editor’s note: The 25-page OPPAGA study as well as Bradenton Beach Mayor John Chappie’s letter can be found on The Islander website at islander.org.
For the curious:
the photo above outlines the seafood shack parcels that sold for $13 million Dec. 31 to Manatee County.
the only proposed use stated by county officials thus far is a public boat ramp, however the BaCVB, which oversees the gulf Island ferry, a two-boat shuttle operating between Bradenton and anna Maria Island, could be looking at a future hub at the shack using tourism tax dollars.
Cool shop, cool shopping
In spite of the cold temperatures, volunteers are bundling up and keeping the outdoor Roser Guild Thrift Shop Annex open 9 a.m.- 2 p.m. Tuesdays and Thursdays and Saturdays 9 a.m.-noon, except holidays.
The Annex is now stocked with household items, while the front room carries a selection of clothing.
As the shop gets ready to fully re-open post hurricanes, volunteers are needed to sort, hang clothes, and stock shelves.
The Thrift Shop welcomes donations of books, recent magazines, housewares, fashions for men and women and linens.
While the shop volunteers prefer donations be dropped off 9-11 a.m. Wednesdays, items can be dropped off time the shop is open.
Roser does not accept large, heavy furniture, TVs, telephones, electronics, including computers and
microwaves or handicap/medical equipment.
To learn more about the Roser Guild Thrift Shop, go to: RoserChurch.com/the-roser-guild-thrift-shop
It is located in the parking lot across the street from the historic Roser Chapel at 511 Pine Ave., Anna Maria.
For more information or to volunteer, call 941-
ing racks Jan. 7 at the roser guild thrift shop, but now there’s more. the guild opened an annex of household items for sale.
778-0414, or find them on Facebook @roserchurch. — Bev Shepperson, Roser communications specialist
Penelope Ypma peruses the cloth-
Islander Courtesy
Photos: Bev shepperson
aBoVe rIgHt: the new annex at the roser guild thrift shop offers household items for sale at bargain prices. rIgHt: shop volunteers lorna smilde-Powers, left, and sharon skladany bundle up to work in 50 degree weather in the outdoor annex.
shoppers search for bargains Jan. 7 in the newly opened roser guild thrift shop annex.
Obituary
Lynn Horne Sr.
Lynn Horne Sr., 94, of Anna Maria, died Jan. 5 at home.
He was born Oct. 24, 1930, in Canal Point, Florida, to Florence (Flo) Hayes and Valdah DeForest Horn. The recording official in Palm Beach County inadvertently added the “e” to Horn on his birth certificate and Valdah Horn’s son, became Lynn Horne.
He attended school in Palm Beach County, Clay Couty, Georgia, Monte Verde Academy in Florida, Emory Junior College in Valdosta, NYU in Manhattan and graduated with a citrus degree from Florida Southern College in Lakeland on the GI Bill following his service in the U.S. Air Force during the Korean Conflict.
He was a 32nd Degree Mason for 65 years. He met and married Barbara Ann Senn in Bartow in 1957. The two enjoyed 61 years of marriage, splitting time between homes in Bartow, Anna Maria and Woodfin Mountain in North Carolina.
He worked in the citrus industry in Florida as a salesman and a grower for over 50 years, including 26 with Ben Hill Griffin in Frostproof.
He was a man of conviction and integrity with generations of growers who trusted his recommendations. He never met a stranger and loved to learn about people and places daily.
There are countless people who knew him as Papa Lynn — a surrogate for those who needed a wise, sage advisor in their lives, or didn’t know they needed sage advice on fire building techniques, trimming trees and bushes properly, road construction on mountainsides, anything to do with horticulture and so many other topics.
He will be missed by the Anna Maria Oyster
need a good laugh? visit the NEW emerson quillin signature store. humor, art, gifts. NEW LOCATION: HB Post Office, 5354 Gulf Drive, Holmes Beach emersonshumor.com
the rev. steve King celebrates with his congregation Jan. 12 in the newly refurbished Harvey Memorial Community Church. Islander Courtesy
Bar family, where he played a key role as french fry inspector.
He loved his role at AMOB.
A celebration of his life will be held 1-4 p.m. Saturday, Jan. 18, at the home of John and Amanda Horne. Because Lynn knew the value of education in everyone’s life, memorial donations to Shuckin’ Good Cause, 6688 Cortez Road W., Bradenton, FL 34210, to help fund the AMOB Dive Into Reading program are requested.
Brown & Sons Funeral Homes & Crematory is in charge of arrangements. Condolences may be made at brownandsonsfuneral.com.
Mr. Horne is survived by his sons, Lynn D. Jr. and wife Sandy and John Curtis and wife Amanda; nieces Debby Doo and husband Bill, Kathy Adela and Bubba, Stephy Lee and M. David and Jules; grandchildren Nic and wife Stephanie, Jake Ann and Trey
wife
and Trenton.
friend and companion Linda
lynn Horne sr.
and
Kristin; great-grandchildren Audrianna Ann “Addy”
He also leaves behind his dear
Schenk.
Photo: Janie ashworth
Football, horseshoes, golf round out sports week
By Kevin P. Cassidy Islander Reporter
Week one of the adult flag football league at the Center of Anna Maria Island kicked off Jan. 9 with five games played.
The 11-team league will play a 10-game regular season followed by a three-week playoff schedule, starting March 14 with the championship game set for March 21.
Moss Builders rolled to a 47-6 victory over Slim’s Place in the opener behind four touchdown passes from Ryan Moss and three touchdown passes and a receiving touchdown from James Roadman. Evelyn Long, Logan Heath and Zachary Long each finished with two touchdown catches each in the route!
Richard Fosmore’s touchdown pass to Dave Kesten accounted for all the scoring by Slim’s Place. The second game of the evening saw MI-Box cruise to a 25-12 victory over Gulf Drive Cafe. Matthew Briley had a big game for MI-Box, throwing for two touchdowns and running for two, while also adding three interceptions on defense. Christian Hampton added a pair of touchdown receptions while Jackson Hayes finished with a game-high 11 receptions in the victory.
Steven Pavina led the Gulf Drive Cafe offense with one touchdown passing and receiving, while Jeremy Rodriguez threw one touchdown pass and Jaden Grant had a receiving touchdown in the loss.
Floridian Mortgage coasted to a 26-6 victory over Reel Coastal Properties in the third game of the night. Quarterback Chase Richardson threw three touchdown
Dishing up classic reggae
The Wailers cranked out the tunes and the vocals were top notch for the second concert in the 2024-25 series of Bradenton Gulf Islands Concerts. next up, Feb. 8, will be Robby Krieger of The Doors. For tickets, go to centerami. org/concerts. Islander Photo: Janie ashworth
Bob Mason, left, and Dom Livedoti came out on top after a three-way playoff of 3-0 teams during Jan. 8 horseshoe action at the anna Maria City Hall pits. Islander Photo: Courtesy aMI Pitchers
passes and added a receiving touchdown to lead Floridian Mortgage, which also received a touchdown pass and reception from Cory Banks. Cameron Reinke added a touchdown reception and Jasmine Muldoon came through with a quarterback sack for a safety on defense.
Sequiel Marintez connected with Roman Marintez for the lone touchdown by Reel Coastal Properties in the loss.
Moss Air defeated Slicker’s Eatery 20-7 in the fourth game of the evening behind three touchdown passes from Jonathan Moss. Moss connected with Chad Woods, Jesse Skipper and Jonathan Soultatos for touchdowns in the victory.
Dominick Otteni connected with Donte Filletti for Slicker’s lone touchdown and the ensuing extra
point.
The last game of the evening saw Ross Built slip past Solid Rock Construction 28-26 behind a huge game from Miguel Rodriguez.
Rodriguez threw three touchdown passes and had two receiving touchdowns, while also adding a pair of extra points and an interception on defense. Corey Vanborstel threw for one score and had one receiving touchdown for Ross Built, which also got a receiving touchdown from Zaon Williams in the victory.
Tuna McCracken paced Solid Rock with a pair of passing and rushing touchdowns. Connor Ludwig added a receiving touchdown, while Tyler Brewer had a receiving touchdown and a sack/safety to complete the scoring in the loss.
The action continues with five more games Jan. 23.
Stay tuned.
Horseshoes action
Three teams emerged from pool play with 3-0 records and settled things in a playoff Jan. 8 during horseshoe action at the Anna Maria City Hall pits.
Bob Mason and Dom Livedoti drew the bye into the finals and watched as Bob Heiger and Tim Sofran eliminated Tom Skoloda and Tom Farrington by a 21-10 score. The championship match saw MasonLivedoti outlast Heiger-Sofran 22-19 to earn a trip to the winner’s circle.
Action Jan. 11 was short and sweet as Farrington posted the only 3-0 record in pool play and was the outright champ for the day.
Play gets started at 9 a.m. Wednesdays and Saturdays at the Anna Maria City Hall pits. Warmups begin at 8:45 a.m. followed by random team selection. There is no charge to play and everyone is welcome.
Key Royale golf news
The Key Royale Club men finally got back on the Holmes Beach course Jan. 6 for their weekly modifiedStableford system golf match. Rod Hammonds came out on top of 40 players with a plus-9, three points ahead of second-place finisher Rob Ellis.
The ladies baled on playing their weekly round Jan. 7 after determining it was just too cold.
But the members were back on the course Jan. 9 for a nine-hole, scramble/shamble combo match that saw the team of Jim Hitchen, Jeff Jump and Al Waal combine on a 2-under-par 30 to earn clubhouse bragging rights for the day. The team of Jenny Huibers, Dale Hudson, Bill Merrill and Nub Turner were alone in second place with an even-par 32.
Cassidy
FWC offers interactive waterway app to enhance boater safety
For years, waterway users in Florida have had to juggle multiple sources of information to plan, prepare and navigate safely on the water.
Understanding weather forecasts, fi nding local boat facilities, observing official warnings and notices, waterway zones and safety equipment requirements often required using several apps, websites and publications, leading to uncertainty about where and when to go, what to do and how to fully and safely enjoy water activities.
But no more.
The Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission has announced a new initiative in collaboration with the National Safe Boating Council to pilot interactive safety content through a free mobile app called DECKEE.
The app is designed to keep boaters safe and informed.
Whether navigating the coastline in a powerboat or sailing yacht, paddling the waters around Key West in a kayak, or heading out for a day of fishing with friends, content delivered through the DECKEE app unifies everything Florida’s water enthusiasts need for a day on the water.
TideWatch
Current conditions in the Gulf
Over the past week, the red tide organism Karenia brevis was detected in 86 samples collected from Florida’s Gulf Coast.
Bloom concentrations of 100,000-plus cells/liter were observed in 22 samples, including one from Manatee County, 13 from Sarasota County and three from Charlotte County.
The Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission continues to monitor satellite NOAA, USF imagery and offshore and nearshore patches of elevated chlorophyll.
Fish kills suspected to be related to red tide were reported to FWC’s Fish Kill Hotline and other partners over the past week along Sarasota, Charlotte and Lee counties.
Respiratory irritation suspected to be related to red tide was reported over the past week along Pinellas, Sarasota, Charlotte, Lee and Collier counties.
For forecasts that use FWC and partner data, visit the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration’s Gulf of Mexico Harmful Algal Blooms Forecast
A daily sampling map can be accessed via a status report on the FWC Red Tide Current Status page.
For more information on algal blooms and water quality, visit Protecting Florida Together
This information, including maps and reports with additional details, is also available on the FWRI red tide website
Florida boaters now have access to the following benefits and safety features in the DECKEE app:
• Detailed maps, facility information, official warnings, aids to navigation and community insights.
• Personalized checklists, boating forecasts, regula-
FREE!
tions and resources from the FWC.
• Automatic log of activities while on the water and live location sharing for peace of mind.
The FWC and the National Safe Boating Council are collaborating on the pilot program to seamlessly integrate safety content into DECKEE. This will help boaters plan, prepare and enjoy their activities on the water, and gain insight into how the campaigns are influencing overall boater behavior.
One example of an integrated campaign will be improving education and outreach about dangerous weather conditions.
The pilot program will introduce a boating forecast targeted to the user’s watercraft and plans.
“Our goal is to create a safer boating environment for everyone in Florida,” said Brian Rewinkel, FWC boating safety education coordinator. DECKEE represents “a significant step forward in our commitment to protecting our waterways and those who enjoy them,” he said.
Florida boaters are encouraged to explore the new safety capabilities in the free DECKEE app.
For more information about FWC boating safety initiatives, visit MyFWC.com/boating
The Islander newspaper is FREE at Publix Holmes Beach. Just stop by the 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.
ITEMS FOR SALE
FREE: nECTaR KInG-size mattress. Victor, 941-920-1693.
TWO PRI n CE TE nn IS rackets, $50 each, Foreman grill, unused, $30, bicycle carrier rack, $35. 941-778-4675.
MInTEK HOME/CaR portable DVD player. Includes all accessories plus 50 DVDs. 75$. Call Bill, 724-986-0314.
FOR SaLE: HOSHIZaKI commercial refrigeration equipment stainless-steel inside and out with full casters. Brand new in original packaging/palleted. Located in Bradenton. Call for details, 937-689-1191.
R a CK: METa L FOUR-tier, $20. 941-9202494.
anTIQUE PaRTnER DESK: all wood, $500. Inquire at The Islander. 941-778-7978.
FREEBIE ITEMS FOR SALE
Individuals may place one free ad with up to three items, each priced $100 or less, 15 words or less. FREE, one week, must be submitted online. Email classifieds@islander. org. (limited time offer).
LOOKInG FOR an EaRLY BIRD? You can read Wednesday’s classifieds on Tuesday at islander.org. and it’s FREE!
Paradise Improvements 941.792.5600
“Anna Maria Island,” a signed pictorial history book of the island by Bonner Joy, is available for $20 at Island Mail & Print, 3230 E. Bay Drive, Holmes Beach, or by mail. Visit islander.org or call 941-778-7978. $20 plus postage, if mail order.
TRANSPORTATION
GOLF C a RT RE n Ta LS: Fun for residents and tourists! 212-941-2402. www.GolfCartRentalaMI.com.
BOATS & BOATING
HaVE a BOaT and wanna catch more fish, better bait or learn the water? 50-year local fisherman, your boat, my knowledge. Captain Chris, 941-896-2915.
SU n CO a ST BOTTOM Pa I n TI n G: Professional bottom painting. Mobile. Call 941704-9382.
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.
HELP WANTED
nOW HIRInG HanDYMan: Full-time professional services. $18 an hour and up, based on experience. Call JayPros, 941962-2874.
REPORTER Wan TED: Full- to part-time. Print media, newspaper experience required. a pply via email with letter of interest to news@islander.org.
KIDS FOR HIRE
KIDS FOR HIRE ads are FREE for up to three weeks for Island youths under 16 looking for work. ads must be placed in person at The Islander office, 315 58th St. Suite J, Holmes Beach.
HEALTH CARE
SEaSOnaL RETIRED Rn available to assist with your family or your needs, 20 years’ experience. For more information please, call 973-819-2824.
SERVICES
IS YOUR HOME or office in need of some cleaning? Well, I’m your girl! Local, reliable, professional! Please, give me a call or text, 941-773 -0461.
CLEanInG: VaCaTIOn, COnSTRUCTIOn, residential, commercial and windows. Licensed and insured. 941-756-4570.
PRESSURE W a SHI n G, PaVER sealing, driveway, roof, fence, pool area. also, window cleaning. Licensed and insured. 941-5653931.
BICYCLE REPaIRS: Just4Fun at 5358 Gulf Drive can do most any bicycle repair at a reasonable cost. Pick-up and delivery available. 941-896-7884.
SERVICES Continued
aPI’S DRYWaLL REPaIR: I look forward to servicing your drywall repair needs. Call 941524-8067 to schedule an appointment.
PC OR TECH issues? n ot 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.
LOOK n O MORE! Residential, vacation rental and commercial cleaning. Give us a call, 941-250-8548.
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! 941-704-9948.
OUR SERVICES: CLEanInG, home repairs, tile, concrete, remodeling, decks, steps, flooring, water drainage solutions, rental 24-hour services. Hurricane shutters and pre-storm service. n ew, low-cost generator and insulation (starts and runs on propane when power off). no permits needed. Islander, over 40 years here! Call 941-4049163.
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
WInDOW CLEanInG: DOWnEaST Window Cleaning, 207-852-6163.
aIRPORT SHUTTLE: QUaLITY transportation, 10 years by Lewber. 352-339-3478.
BUSI n ESS-TO-BUSI n ESS JD’s Window Cleaning looking for storefront jobs in Holmes Beach. I make dirty windows sparkling clean. 941-920-3840.
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.
BE a CH 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, 941-7207411. Residential, call nate, 941-524-2248. CaC184228.
SERVICES Continued
CLEan TECH MOBILE Detailing. at your location. Cars, boats, RVs. Call or text Billie for an appointment. 941-592-3482.
LAWN & GARDEN
COnnIE’S LanDSCaPInG InC. Residential and commercial. Full-service lawn maintenance, landscaping, cleanups, hauling and more! Insured. 941-713-1965.
COLLInS LanDSCaPE LIGHTInG: Outdoor lighting, landscaping, irrigation services and maintenance. 941-279-9947. MJC24373@ gmail.com
nOW HaULInG STORM trash. Shell delivered and spread. Hauling all kinds of gravel, mulch, topsoil with free estimates. Call Larry at 941-795-7775, or “shell phone” 941-7200770.
HOME IMPROVEMENT
Van-GO PaInTInG residential/commercial, interior/exterior, pressure cleaning, wallpaper. Island references. Bill, 941-795-5100. www.vangopainting.net.
GRIFFIn’S HOME IMPROVEMEnTS Inc. Handyman, fine woodwork, countertops, cabinets and wood flooring. Insured and licensed. 941-722-8792.
LanE’S SCREEnInG SERVICES: Replace your window, door or lanai screens. Many screen options available. Retired veteran serving our community! Free estimates, call 941-705-5293.
LOOKInG FOR anY 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 Robert, 941-726-3077.
DOnaLD PERKInS PaInTInG LLC. Interior/exterior/pressure washing. Island references. dperkinspaint@hotmail.com. 941705-7096.
GORILLa DRYWaLL REPaIR LLC. Let’s solve your drywall problems together. Give us a call at 941-286-0607.
MaSSEY COnTRaCTInG: PROVIDInG quality roofing services on all jobs, big or small. Giving honest, hassle-free quotes at a great price. Call Jon to schedule your free estimate, 727-477-5313. Lic#CCC1332486.
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.
MORE BanG FOR YOUR BUCK? It’s an old saying, but it’s still true when it comes to The Islander. Look for more online at islander. org.
RENTALS
anna MaRIa GULF beachfront vacation rentals. One- two- and three-bedroom units, all beachfront. www.amiparadise.com. 941778-3143.
aVaILaBLE nOW anD season: 1BR/1Ba, seven-night minimum. carlesvacationrentals. com. Special rates are available. 941-8071405.
2BR/1Ba annUaL LEaSE: Electric/ac/heat all included. $2,975/month. Looking for 1 or 2 quiet adults with no pets or smoking. Steps to Gulf. Owner-occupied duplex. Owner, 508496-8480. williamshomes@yahoo.com
MaY 2025 aVaILaBLE: Snowbird special! Perico Island patio home, single floor, high ceilings, 3BR/2Ba, privacy wall/gate, twocar garage. Call or text alison, 859-7716423. www.pericoislandrental.com
aVaILaBLE MaRCH 1 FOR rent: anna Maria Island condo. Seasonal and annual rental availability. Great value. Beautiful upgraded first floor 2BR/2BR. Incredible water view. Excellent rental terms. Owner/ renter. Call/email for pics, 570-239-0431. marketreps@aol.com.
annUaL REnTaL: HOLMES Beach. Three minutes to the beach, newly renovated house, 2,100 sf, 3BR/3Ba. Two-car garage. $5,950/ monthly. 514-730-4825. kondiloveroutis@ gmail.com
MInUTES TO BEaCHES! 2BR/2Ba condo, water and cable included, pool, washer/dryer, $1,795/month, annual, 941-713-6743.
LaST MInUTE CanCELLaTIOn for upcoming season! 2BR/2Ba Gulffront condo at Tiffany Place, January, February. (two-week minimum). 4BR/2Ba home, one block to the beach in the City of anna Maria, January, February. 5BR/5Ba Gulffront home, February, (weekly available). 3BR/2Ba canalfront home, January, February (monthly minimum). 2BR/2Ba condo, Sunbow Bay, March. Call Green Real Estate, 941-778-0455. ken@ greenreal.com
REnTaL: MaRCH, aPRIL, May. 1BR/1Ba condo, second floor, all inclusive. West Bradenton. 941-962-0971.
anna MaRIa ISLanD: Renovated annual unfurnished 2BR/1Ba ground duplex home steps to Gulf beach nonsmoking no pets. $2,975/month, owner pays all utilities, aC/electric. avenue C. 508-496-8480.
annUaL REnTaL: 2BR/2Ba, all new appliances, backyard and small pet allowed. $1,900 month. 4412 100th St. W., Bradenton. Call Mike norman Realty, 941-778-6696.
The Islander website offers essential news for residents and visitors. Check it out: islander.org.
REAL ESTATE
WInnIE MCHaLE, REaLTOR, 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.”
FOR SaLE: PaRK model cottage at Sarasota Bay RV, Crepe Myrtle 51. Fully furnished and remodeled in 2022/23. $58,500. (2024/25 season paid). 918-557-0355.
MULTIPLE HOMES In 55-plus lot rent park for sale in Bradenton. Some fully furnished under $20,000. Call Kathryn with Integrity Mobile Home Sales. 407-674-0220.
COMMERCIaL SPaCE FOR SaLE or rent in Palm Condo. 12x25-foot offi ce suite or studio. Street frontage. $1,500/month or $120,000. Call 941-730-2606.
Cold weather calls for shrimp on the hook — and patience
By Capt. Danny Stasny Islander Reporter
With winter finally settling in, Anna Maria Island anglers are finding that shrimp — live or frozen — is producing the best action while trying to get a bite. With water temperatures dropping to the mid- to upper-50s, most species targeted are not as motivated to bite as they are concerned with conserving energy to keep warm.
This being said, it’s important to get a slow moving bait in front of them that doesn’t require much exertion to chase it down. In most instances live shrimp fits the bill. And, in many instances the addition of a weight or even a jig head to secure the shrimp in its location is ideal. It helps keep the shrimp vulnerable for any predator that stumbles across it.
In the back country, you should encounter species such as redfish, black drum, sheepshead and flounder which will readily take a shrimp if placed in front of their noses. The same applies for fishing along the beaches. Casting live shrimp in the surf on a jig head can yield good results even when water temperatures are low. Species such as pompano, redfish, sheepshead, black drum and even trout will respond to this presentation which can lead to a good day of fishing when expectations were low at best.
Finally, using live shrimp around structure in the inland waters and in the Gulf of Mexico can lead to good action. Sheepshead, Key West grunts, snappers and hogfish are receptive to shrimp offerings in these areas, too.
Capt. David White says before the cold front, he was finding good action on spotted seatrout and redfish in the backcountry of Tampa Bay southward to Sarasota Bay. For the trout, deeper flats or deep canals were great areas to cast live shrimp for a bite. As for the reds, casting around structure, such as rocks and docks, was producing the best action. Also while in these areas, White was finding some sheepshead and black drum.
Capt. Wes Wildman is finding action while working docks and canals in Sarasota Bay. In these sheltered areas out of the wind, Wildman is finding a variety of fish, including sheepshead, black drum and redfish.
Casting live shrimp is attracting the best action from these three species. On colder days, some patience is required with this bite, although Wildman says on the warmer days the bite is more consistent. And, on the warmer days, Wildman is finding spotted seatrout along edges of channels and in deep canals. To catch the trout, Wildman likes tipping a jig with fresh-cut shrimp and slowly bumping the bottom.
Capt. Johnny Mattay says fishing offshore for red grouper is proving to be quite good on days when the seas are calm.
Fishing in depths of 100 feet or more is yielding limits of red grouper with some in the 15-pound range. Mixed in with the bite are numerous catch-and-release American red snapper which, although out of season, still make an enjoyable catch. For bait, Mattay is using an assortment of frozen baits — squid, sardines and threadfin herring. On some days, he’s carrying live pinfish for bait which also is working well.
Moving in closer in depths of 45-60 feet, Mattay is fi nding plenty of action around hard bottom and ledges. Hogfish are the highlight in these areas with a mix of other species — mangrove snapper, Key West grunts and large gag grouper.
Local angler Drew Philips hooked this silver king in June 2024 on a guided trip with Capt. David White, who is taking advantage of a break due to cold weather and windy conditions to book the spring-summer season for tarpon in
Finally, for the inshore bite, Mattay is targeting pompano, black drum, sheepshead and redfish along the beaches. All are being caught on jigs tipped with shrimp.
Send high-resolution photos and fishing reports to fish@islander.org.
Capt. Danny Stasny helps a client wrangle a large tarpon at the side of the boat for a trophy photo. FWC regs prohibit removal of tarpon from the water.
isl biz
By Bonner Joy
Business as usual?
We’re not really back to “business as usual” if by that we mean pre-back-to-back hurricanes.
For instance, The Islander offi ce is stripped of drywall and does not yet have electrical service.
Unfortunately, we are subject to the insurance (or lack of insurance) provisions and the oversight of a condo homeowner’s association.
Many others are subject to a landlord’s oversight when it comes to property upkeep, cleanup and remodeling.
Maybe you’re finding yourselves — like me — anxious for the return of normal.
But that’s been slow for some places, like the Island Shopping Center.
The Artists Guild of Anna Maria Island reported last week that they have encountered delays in getting their Guild Gallery reopened.
Sun and Surf Resortwear is working through a lot of inventory and new merchandise in a warehouse while preparing the store with new racks, displays and shelving, flooring and space for the birds.
Even the laundromat, the last of its kind on AMI, is experiencing delays in reopening.
Meanwhile, the much-loved Small Town Creamery, reopened on a smaller scale, mostly because replacement coolers and freezers were not available.
D.Coy Ducks Tavern also reopened.
Unfortunately, reopening can be a slow process.
The Feast, next door to the ice cream shop, took the opportunity to remodel and improve its space.
They are awaiting custom booths, which is disappointing when what they really want to do is cook and serve meals, but the booths are allowing the restaurant to increase their seating, which, in turn, will allow them to serve a full menu of alcoholic beverages.
And that’s a big step for their future.
Margarita, anyone?
Looking back to the fury created pre-OPPaGa study by Manatee County Commissioner Kevin Van Ostenbridge on anna Maria Island over his push to either consolidate the island cities or unincorporate the cities. In May 2024, volunteers guided rallygoers in signing letters of opposition for the potential consolidation of the island municipalities to state Sen. Jim Boyd, R-Bradenton, and Rep. Will Robinson, R-Bradenton. Islander File
We’ve heard the hardware store at the ISC is changing hands. The barber shop, too.
But, down the row on the south end of the large L-shaped center, Julia Duytschaver and her sales team at the Original Sand Dollar gift shop hustled and reopened in time for Black Friday and the holidays.
And aren’t we all waiting to see progress across the street from the shopping center at the decaying Island Bank/Wells Fargo?
In case you hadn’t heard, the owner is approved for a mixed retail space with an arcade, ice cream shop, candy store, roof-top restaurant and bar and on the ground-level, in the former bank drive-thru, a minigolf course. Giddyup! Right?
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