Chocolate doughnuts? Wowza!
Anna Maria Elementary prekindergartners Meadow Jones, Vivienne Feiner and Jack DiRaimo ravage chocolate doughnuts courtesy of Dunkin’ during a Sept. 12 “Donuts and Dance” party at the Holmes Beach school.
Islander Photos: Robert Anderson
AME students let loose with some dance moves following the consumption of celebratory doughnuts Sept. 12 during a Dunkin’sponsored “Donuts and Dance” party at the school.
WMFR seeks to buy old BB fire house
By Ryan Paice Islander Reporter
The West Manatee Fire Rescue District could return to its beginnings in Bradenton Beach.
Fire Marshal Rodney Kwiatkowski told The Islander Sept. 10 that the district’s proposed $1 million purchase of property in the island’s southernmost city involves the Bradenton Beach Fire Lodge, 201 Second St. N.
The deal was approved by the property owner, Bradenton Beach Fire Lodge Inc., and the district has 60 days to close the deal. William “Buddy” Bowen, president of the nonprofit organization, also is a first-class firefighter/paramedic for WMFR.
In addition to its administrative headquarters in Bradenton, the district currently has three fire stations:
• Station 1 at 407 67th St. W., Bradenton;
• Station 2 at 10350 Cortez Rd., Bradenton;
• Station 3 at 6001 Marina Drive, Holmes Beach.
While the district covers Bradenton Beach, it has not had a station in the city since 2000, when the Anna Maria and West Side fire districts merged into WMFR and decommissioned the Bradenton Beach fire hall.
The lodge also has been used as a meeting place for other nonprofits, municipal elections and yard sales.
Chief Ben Rigney introduced the possibility of purchasing property in the city at the district’s commission meeting in August, but did not reveal the address until a Sept. 9 meeting, after the deal had been approved.
Palma Sola horse tours ‘on pause’ for water tests
By Robert Anderson Islander Reporter
The Bradenton City Council Sept. 10 was briefed on water quality and bacteria sources in Palma Sola Bay, with a focus on whether horseback riding in the bay contributes to health risks.
Dave Tomasko, executive director of the Sarasota Bay Estuary Program, presented the briefing. He said the bay remains in “fairly good” condition but with localized issues, including higher bacteria readings on the north side, where horse tours operate.
Palma Sola Bay is one of five bodies of water within the Sarasota Bay estuary system, along with Sarasota Bay, Roberts Bay, Little Sarasota Bay and Blackburn Bay.
Tomasko said localized impacts persist in Palma Sola, including trampling scars in seagrass meadows where horse tours operate north of the causeway.
“The seagrass meadows are damaged by horses,” Tomasko said, showing an aerial view. “Horses are causing damage. So are canals. So are seawalls. So are boats. Everything is causing damage to the bay to some degree.”
Reviewing bacteria indicators — E. coli, fecal coliform and enterococci — he said thresholds differ depending on whether waters are designated as bathing beaches or Class III marine waters.
The bacteria don’t usually harm fi sh or plants directly but high levels signal fecal waste or decaying organic matter that can fuel algae growth, lower oxygen levels and pose health risks to swimmers.
Under Florida Department of Health standards, water is considered “good” at 0-35 colony-forming units per 100 milliliters, “moderate” at 36–70 and “poor” above 70, which can trigger health advisories. These thresholds apply at desig-
nated bathing beaches, such as Palma Sola South.
The north side of the bay is not classified as a bathing beach and is generally considered Class III marine waters, which allows up to 130 CFU per 100 mL.
Consequently, the bacteria reading could be acceptable on the north side but unacceptable on the south beach.
DOH testing on the south side generally meets standards, though Tomasko said roughly one in fi ve samples register as moderate or poor. Meanwhile, community sampling by nonprofits such as Suncoast Waterkeeper on the north side show more frequent exceedances.
A Sept. 9 test for north Palma Sola recorded 333 CFU per 100 mL.
To pinpoint sources, SBEP initiated a genetic “microbial source tracking” study at four sites. Microbial source tracking uses genetic markers to iden-
tify whether contamination comes from humans, horses, birds or decaying vegetation.
According to Tomasko, initial lab results found no human markers, suggesting it’s not sewage driving the high readings. Bird markers appeared at the south beach and horse markers were
Best News on Anna Maria Island Since 1992
Horses are led to the water at Palma Sola Causeway. Islander File Photo
Municipal matters
Budgets, bids and meetings
Anna Maria Mayor Mark Short reached out to The Islander by email Sept. 13 with news about his week in city government.
He said the week’s focus was “all around the agenda items that were discussed at (the Sept. 11) commission meeting.”
Short said the commission approved engaging four debris haulers and a disaster management company to assist the city in the event of a storm or other emergencies.
The commissioners also approved an emergency ordinance regarding no swimming at Bean Point, with allowances for residents and their guests in the posted zone.
A first reading on the budget ordinance for the next fiscal year also was approved.
Finally, Short said, nine bids were received Sept. 12 regarding the rebuild of the city pier.
He said the city is in the process of reviewing them.
Holmes Beach Mayor Judy Titsworth texted and emailed The Islander Sept. 12.
She said, “We had a busy week.”
The mayor noted that she is preparing her response to state Rep. Will Robinson Jr., R-Bradenton, and state Sen. Jim Boyd, R-Bradenton, following their request to update them on consolidating service efforts among the three cities and any possible cost savings.
Titsworth said the first reading of the Holmes Beach budget passed unanimously and she was able to keep the millage the same as last year — “which makes me really pleased.”
Also, a stakeholder town hall meeting for vacation rental owners was a success — “a great turnout and
Palma Sola Bay’s north bay is outlined in red and the south bay is outlined in green.
Islander Image: courtesy google earth
Q&A
The Islander poll
How often do you shop an outdoor market?
A. Weekly during season.
B. Maybe monthly.
C. On occasion.
D. Can’t remember the last time.
To answer the poll and see poll results, go to islander.org.
the staff did a really great job.”
Titsworth said a special magistrate hearing went well and should assist the city in getting properties into compliance in the future.
She also provided a reminder to share with our readers: Anyone speeding in the school zone on Gulf Drive in Holmes Beach will no longer be receiving warnings. Fines are being issued.
Speeders: You’ve been warned.
— Bonner Joy
detected at three of four sites, but only at “detected, not quantifiable” levels. One north-side site exceeded both bathing-beach and Class III criteria.
As a next step, in coordination with the city, horse tour operators agreed to put a pause on operations Sept. 8-Oct. 6 in order for SBEP to conduct comparative sampling.
“If levels drop during the pause and rebound afterward, horses would likely be a significant source,” Tomasko said.
But not everyone agreed with the approach. Abbey Tyrna, executive director of Suncoast Waterkeeper, said the meeting left her concerned that the narrative is being framed as “for or against horses.”
“We are not anti-horse tour — we are pro-bay,” Tyrna said in a Sept. 11 interview with The Islander. “There’s a way forward where everybody wins.”
She suggested best practices such as requiring horses to wear diapers to reduce waste in the water and creating a permit system to limit the number of vendors.
Tyrna also criticized the one-month suspension experiment.
“Unfortunately, I do think that what has been done is really irresponsible, using the pretense of science to say that if we remove the horses for a month that we will then know definitively whether or not the horses are contributing to the problem. That’s just not how it works,” she said.
Instead, she called for a stakeholder workshop with horse tour operators, scientists, city officials, residents and others to find common ground and pursue comprehensive solutions.
You can peruse the Islander newspaper archive, dating back to its launch in November 1992, at ufdc. ufl.edu.
Short titsworth
Holmes Beach requests funding
By ryan Paice Islander reporter
The city of Holmes Beach wants a slice of the pie.
During a recent joint meeting with the Manatee Board of County Commissioners, city officials discussed potential county funding for a multi-modal path and increased funding to patrol Manatee Public Beach.
City engineer and public works director Sage Kamiya on Sept. 3 presented plans for the multimodal path, the latest version of a previously proposed project that did not achieve funding from the tourist development council and county board.
The project involves the construction of multiuse paths along the city’s main corridors, Gulf and Marina drives, to improve walkability and safety.
It also involves adding educational signage and three pervious paver walking paths to better connect the corridors to beach access points at the ends of 55th, 65th and 66th streets.
In total, Kamiya estimated the project would cost more than $2.5 million.
However, he also provided a breakdown for Phase 1 that would cost an estimated $1,133,408.61.
Kamiya said the city would contribute $399,460 toward the project cost, which brings the total ask to the county down to $733,948.61.
Mayor Judy Titsworth said the project qualified for TDC funding and the county was putting the cart before the horse by subsidizing a water ferry to bring more people to the island before first making streets safer to walk.
“We’ve got families with children on little bikes riding down Gulf Drive every season and they’re mixed in with the cars because there are no safe bike lanes or multiuse paths on Gulf Drive,” she said. “If we meet the criteria and it’s good for tourism, why wouldn’t we get a buy in from the board and from TDC to help keep these tourists safe?”
“We’re definitely a donor city for the TDC. … This is something that meets the criteria and we shouldn’t have to beg for it,” Titsworth added.
County Commissioner George Kruse, R-District 7, a countywide district, asked why the city had not worked with the other island municipalities to accomplish an islandwide multimodal path system.
“Why isn’t there one big plan?” he asked.
Titsworth said there has been coordination between the island cities, but an islandwide plan does not exist.
County Commissioner Tal Siddique, R-District 3, which covers the island, said they needed to follow the process and encouraged the city to seek TDC approval.
“If you can get it through the TDC, I don’t have a problem with it,” he said.
City Commissioner Carol Whitmore, a former county commissioner, said the city should explore state funding for such a project if the request gets shot down
again.
“We don’t want this to stop here,” she said. “We need to come up with a solution.”
Police funding
Holmes Beach Police Chief Bill Tokajer asked the county to increase its annual funding to patrol Manatee Public Beach, 4000 Gulf Drive, and Kingfish Boat Ramp, 752 Manatee Ave. W.
Both locations are owned and maintained by the county, but they are policed by the HBPD.
The county currently pays the city $46,000 a year to police the properties, but Tokajer said that amount falls far short of reimbursing the city.
He calculated that it costs the city $146,000 a year in officer hours to patrol the county properties. So he requested the county increase its pay to that number, along with annual cost-of-living adjustments.
The request was provided to the county in February.
“I think that that’s reasonable considering the amount of money that we’re putting out in manhours,” Tokajer said.
Siddique said he did not know if the county could provide the full ask, but he agreed that an increase makes sense.
He said the county dropped the ball by not working on an increase before the current budget season. The new fiscal year begins Oct. 1.
“Let’s have staff figure out what the right number should be,” Siddique said.
Kruse did not argue against an increase in funding, but he noted that the county could not simply cut a check to the city at the joint meeting.
He said the county could potentially allocate a temporary fund to increase the pay this year, then adjust accordingly in subsequent years, but the proper procedure needed to be followed.
“Anything you can do we would greatly appreciate,” Titsworth said.
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.
HB agrees to lower property tax, budget passes 1st reading
By ryan Paice Islander reporter
Holmes Beach’s spending plans and ad valorem taxes could take a step back in 2025-26.
City commissioners unanimously voted Sept. 11 on motions to approve first readings for ordinances adopting a $22,075,146 budget and 1.99 millage rate for the new fiscal year, which begins Oct. 1.
While the city commission voted in July to set the 2.1812 rollback rate as the municipality’s maximum millage for the upcoming fiscal year, the budget was prepared with the current year’s 1.99 millage rate.
The millage rate is the amount per $1,000 of property value used to calculate property taxes.
The 2.1812 rollback rate would raise $6,759,206 in the fiscal year 2025-26, the same amount of ad valorem tax revenue that the municipality collected this year.
While the city would collect the same amount in property taxes, the rollback rate for next year represents a 9.6% increase in revenue and spending over the current millage due to an 8.15% decrease in total taxable property value.
Under the 2.1812 rollback rate, the owner of a property appraised as $500,000 would pay $1,090.60 in property taxes.
At the current 1.99 millage rate, the owner of a property appraised at $500,000 pays $995 in property taxes — a tax decrease.
Maintaining that rate would raise the city $6,167,706 in ad valorem tax revenue — $592,500 less than this year.
Overall, the $22,075,146 total budget represents a more than $3 million decrease from this year’s $25,233,596 spending plan.
City treasurer Julie Marcotte presented the proposed budget and said the general government, building and police department budgets include minimal changes.
Much of the proposed budget drop can be attributed to decreases of more than $2 million in unrestricted reserves, $1,364,000 in capital outlay expenses, $687,771 in total personnel services and $437,644 in total operating expenses.
Despite the decreases, the city projects it will collect $500,000 more in building permits than it did this
year and $1,267,374 in disaster reimbursement from the Federal Emergency Management Agency.
Those changes result in a projected $813,700 increase in local revenue sources over the $10,707,552 collected this year.
Commissioners complimented Marcotte, Mayor Judy Titsworth and the city’s department heads for carving out the budget in the face of spending cuts.
“The cuts that the city has done is creating a budget that is actually a tax cut to the taxpayers,” Commissioner Steve Oelfke said.
Commissioner Carol Soustek said the tax cut was a “positive move forward” for the municipality.
“It lets the community know … we understand what you’ve been through and we want to take a year off,” Commission Chair Dan Diggins said. “I just think it’s the right thing to do.”
There was no public comment.
The city commission will hold a final public hearing, second reading for the budget ordinance and vote for the budget at 5:01 p.m. Thursday, Sept. 25, at city hall, 5801 Marina Drive.
Bradenton.
the old fire hall, 201 Second St. N., Bradenton Beach, went out of service in 2000. wmfr is exploring a potential purchase of the property for a future firehouse in Bradenton Beach. Islander Photo: robert anderson
Kwiatkowski said WMFR fire commissioners voted 3-1 at the meeting to tentatively approve the contract, with an amendment to retain right of refusal for the next 60 days while the property is evaluated.
Commissioner Robert Bennett, a member of the Bradenton Beach Fire Lodge, recused himself from the vote.
Commissioner Larry Jennis voted “no,” having previously argued that the purchase was unnecessary.
Kwiatkowksi said the district will hire an engineer to evaluate the property to see if it meets WMFR’s needs, such as if it is adequate for the development of a fourth station.
Before the 60-day timeline ends Nov. 11, that evaluator will present findings to the fire commission, which will then vote to either close on the deal or pull out of it.
The district only has one more commission meeting before that deadline, at 6 p.m. Tuesday, Oct. 21, at the administrative headquarters, 701 63rd St. W.,
Kwiatkowksi called the deal a “fantastic opportunity” to lay the groundwork for expansion.
He said the district has stationed staff at the Annie Silver Community Center, 103 23rd St. N., Bradenton Beach, to reduce response times in the municipality during spring break.
Kwiatkowski said he believed it was a “great idea” to reestablish a permanent presence in the city, especially at the relatively low — for island property — cost of $1 million.
District adopts 2025-26 budget
Fire commissioners also unanimously voted to adopt the district’s $16,683,907 budget for fiscal 2025-26, which begins Oct. 1.
The proposed spending plan includes $13,194,092 in total estimated revenues and $3,489,815 for the budgeted use of impact and reserve funds.
On the expenditure side of things, $11,149,049 was budgeted for personnel expenses, $3,438,000 for capital outlay and $2,096,857 for operating expenses.
The district also included $6,671,953 in total reserve funds for the upcoming fiscal year.
The highlight of the budget is the purchase of two new fire engines for $1.9 million.
There was no public comment on the budget.
Skimming online
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FIRE HoUsE coNtINued from Page 1
AM sends $28,255,000 spending plan, tax hike to 2nd reading
By ryan Paice Islander reporter
The city of Anna Maria’s record-high fiscal 2025-26 budget — and a tax increase for property owners — is one vote away from adoption.
City commissioners held a public hearing and unanimously voted Sept. 11 to approve the first reading of an ordinance adopting a $28,255,000 budget and 1.65 millage rate for the upcoming fiscal year, which begins Oct. 1.
The city set its current millage rate of 1.65 mills per $1,000 of property value as the tentative millage for fiscal 2025-26 earlier this summer.
The millage rate is the amount per $1,000 of property value used to calculate ad valorem property taxes.
Under the current 1.65 millage rate, the owner of a property appraised at $500,000 pays $825 in property taxes.
While that percentage rate would not change, the city’s total taxable value increased by 6.48% — from $2,328,488,174 to $2,479,351,952 — so the municipality will net $104,362 more than it earned this year in ad valorem taxes.
The city would have to adopt its 1.6283 rollback rate to raise the same amount of ad valorem revenue as the municipality collected this year.
Under the rollback rate, the owner of property appraised at $500,000 would pay $814.15 in property taxes.
Any millage higher than the rollback results in a tax hike.
Anna Maria was the only city on the island to record an increase in total taxable property value over last year, according to the Manatee County Property
Resources for hurricane season
One way to stay up to date is to search for hashtags for a storm — like #TSAndrea or #HurricaneBarry — on social media.
Additionally, the National Hurricane Center provides updates on X via @NWSNHC and @NHC_Atlantic.
The National Weather Service informs via @NWS and, for local info, via @NWSTampaBay.
A favorite Facebook follow: ABC Action News chief meteorologist Denis Phillips at @denisphillipsweatherman.
Government websites to bookmark include: Manatee County: mymanatee.org.
Florida: floridadisaster.org. Federal: fema.gov.
For news: islander.org.
— lisa Neff
Appraiser.
The proposed $28,255,000 spending plan represents a $10,449,000, or 58.7%, increase over this year’s budget.
That spike is due to $16,019,000 in capital outlay expenses, including $8.2 million to rebuild the destroyed Anna Maria City Pier walkway, $2.7 million for stormwater capital improvements and $1.3 million to finish the Pine Avenue paver and crosswalk project.
The city will pay for those projects and more with $17,899,000 in funding from outside sources, including from the Federal Emergency Management Agency, the state and Manatee County.
BB finalizes $5M budget
Bradenton Beach commissioners Sept. 11 unanimously adopted a $5 million budget for fi scal year 2025-26, holding the property tax rate steady despite last year’s hurricane-related hit to values.
Commissioners approved a millage rate of 2.3329 — the same as this year and less than the rollback rate of 2.7804 mills.
The budget sets general fund expenditures at $5,045,506, against projected revenues of $5,652,680 with a focus on replenishing city reserves depleted during recovery from hurricanes Helene and Milton.
“This budget, if it performs as expected — it puts about $300,000 in reserves,” city treasurer Shayne Thompson said.
The spending plan includes a 5% raise for employees, increased compensation for emergency management staff and $48,800 for planning department scanning equipment to improve records management. Commissioners postponed adding new planning and police department staff until 2026-27.
The budget takes effect Oct. 1.
— robert anderson
waves crash Sept. 11 against the rocks where there was a landing for the anna maria city Pier. the walkway was destroyed and demolished by the 2024 hurricanes and the city aims to rebuild it by next fall. Islander Photo: robert anderson
Mayor Mark Short said the $1,896,548 in proposed reserves was more than $1.5 million less than the $3,435,088 in adopted reserves for this year.
He said the spent reserves were used to pay for costs related to last year’s storms and the city was due for reimbursement.
Short said the reimbursement funds would be used to replenish the city’s reserves back to where it was last year.
There was no public comment on the proposed budget and millage rate.
A second reading and potentially final public hearing will be at 5:01 p.m. Thursday, Sept. 25, at city hall, 10005 Gulf Drive.
BB CRA budget adopted
The Bradenton Beach Community Redevelopment Agency approved a budget and tax rate for the 2025-26 fiscal year Sept. 11 at city hall.
The budget, though built on reduced revenues following the 2024 hurricanes, still contains $1.86 million for projects — more than five times this year’s allocation — and emphasizes storm recovery and long-term redevelopment goals. Priorities include burying utilities, upgrading parking and sidewalks and enhancing waterfront areas.
Agency members voted unanimously to set the millage rate at 2.3329 mills, the same level as this year and approximately 16% lower than the rollback rate of 2.7804 mills.
City treasurer Shayne Thompson said, “It’s the same rate we’ve had now, or since I’ve been here, at least 10 years. In light of what we’ve experienced last year, holding it the same is still marketable.”
There was no public comment during the hearing.
The new fiscal year begins Oct. 1.
— robert anderson
Stay alert, quiet, dark
While turtle nesting wanes on our beaches, hatchline activity is ongoing and we all need to stay alert.
According to Anna Maria Island Turtle Watch executive director Kristin Mazzarella Sept. 12, “We are slowing down a lot with only 64 nests left on the beach. We continue daily patrols to check all nests and complete nest excavations. No new crawls have been observed this week, so we are pretty certain the turtle mama’s are done for the season.
“The good news is that we had only one disorientation since last week — at least, that we know of! AND we are still finding that a record number of hatchlings have made it out of their nests — 29,523 to date.”
Mazzarella said she’s hopeful that they will break through with 30,000 or more hatchlings this year!
She also reminded everyone that even though you don’t see many nests out there, it’s still sea turtle nesting season until Oct. 31. “So, please, remember to keep our beaches turtle-friendly so that all our hatchlings make it safely to the water!”
Some reminders for you:
• No cellphone lights or flashlights (even red lights) on the beach at night.
• Close blinds so interior lights cannot be seen from the beach.
• Use turtle-friendly lighting (red or amber LEDs) with shields or turn lights off that shine on the beach.
• Report non-turtle friendly lights that can be seen from the beach to your local code enforcement.
• Fill holes and remove beach items, furniture and trash every night when you leave the beach.
Finally, Mazzarella reminds us what to do if we find a stray hatchling:
• Collect the hatchling to get it out of danger and place in a dry bucket with a little sand.
• Call AMITW’s hotline 941-301-8434 for the next step in saving the hatchling.
AMITW reminds us not to release stray hatchlings on our own. If they are sick or injured, they might not be able to swim to reach nourishment.
And, finally, Mazzarella is planning the Sixth Annual Suzi Fox Turtle Watch Wednesday.
The annual fundraiser is set for Oct. 22 at Hurricane Hanks in Holmes Beach.
Organizers are accepting donations for auction. You can reach them at info@islandturtlewatch.com
Please, make plans to attend the event for a great cause and a remembrance for a dear friend, Suzi Fox, who built AMITW into a great conservation organization from 1966 until her death in September 2022.
— Bonner
Joy
Your opinion
Don’t charge locals to park
Stop the added tax on locals with parking fees. It is another money grab.
If you need to tax tourists, OK.
But give us locals a parking pass window sticker.
10-20-30 years ago
From the Sept. 14, 1995, issue
• An Anna Maria man was accused of burglary and arson in connection with what Holmes Beach police described as the fi rebombing of the Anchor Inn on Gulf Drive North and the vandalism of Island Package Liquors on Marina Drive.
▼ Publisher, editor Bonner Joy, news@islander.org
▼ Editorial robert anderson, robert@islander.org
Joe Bird, editorial cartoonist Kevin cassidy, kevin@islander.org
Jack elka, jack@jackelka.com lisa Neff, lisa@islander.org ryan Paice, ryan@islander.org
▼ Contributors
Jacob merrifield
capt. danny Stasny, fish@islander.org
Sean murphy
▼ Advertising Sales
Ingrid mcclellan, ingrid.theislander@gmail.com ads@islander.org
▼ lisa williams info@, accounting@, classifieds@, subscriptions@islander.org
▼ Distribution
urbane Bouchet
ross roberts
Judy loden wasco
▼ Webmaster wayne ansell
All others: info@islander.org
I think a downside of doing this is locals enjoy our islands and beaches and this will tax us and hurt all restaurants, stores and other businesses we patronize. We all know the DeSantis property tax idea won’t be a free lunch. Politicians always find a way to give you something in one hand and take it away in the other.
Edward Cressy, Palmetto
Letters to the editor
The Islander welcomes your opinion letters
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. Anonymous letters are not published.
• Bradenton Beach’s planning and zoning board recommended city commission approval of a plan to open a tiki-style concession stand to serve beer and wine at the Bradenton Beach Marina. “It will be real stylish,” said then-marina owner Allan Bazzy.
From the Sept. 14, 2005, issue
• Anna Maria commissioners revisited a vote on whether to hold a nonbinding referendum on the consolidation of island governments and voted 4-1 against a referendum.
From the Sept. 16, 2015, issue
• A circuit judge upheld an injunction prohibiting the city of Anna Maria from instituting its short-term vacation rental ordinance. Several property owners and businesses operating vacation rentals sued to block the ordinance.
• Then-Holmes Beach Mayor Carol Whitmore announced plans to install a basketball court at the city field park area near city hall. The cost was estimated at $28,000.
— lisa Neff
compiled by lisa Neff,
calendar@islander.org
ARTS & ENTERTAINMENT
ON AMI
Monday, Sept. 22
6 p.m. — Art House Cinema, Island Library, 5701 Marina Drive, Holmes Beach. Info: 941-778-6341, mymanatee.org.
ONGOING ON AMI
• Sept. 18-28, Island Players’ “Janus,” 10009 Gulf Drive, Anna Maria. Fee applies. Info: theislandplayers.org, 941-778-5755.
• Most third Mondays, 1 p.m., Center of Anna Maria Island Book Club, 407 Magnolia Ave., Anna Maria. Info: 941-778-1908, centerami.org.
ONGOING OFF AMI
• Through Jan. 11, “Yoshida Hiroshi: Journeys through Light,” The Ringling, 5401 Bay Shore Road, Sarasota. Fee applies except Mondays. Info: 941-359-5700, ringling.org.
• Through April 12, 2026, “Ancestral Edge: Abstraction and Symbolism,” The Ringling, 5401 Bay Shore Road, Sarasota. Fee applies except Mondays. Info: 941-359-5700, ringling.org.
• First Fridays, 6-9:30 p.m., Village of the Arts First Fridays Artwalk, 12th Street West and 12th Avenue West, Bradenton. Info: villageofthearts.com.
• Second and fourth Saturdays, 2-4 p.m., Florida Maritime Museum’s Music on the Porch, 4415 119th St. W., Cortez. Info: 941-708-6120, floridamaritimemuseum.org.
SAVE THE DATES
• Sept. 28, Island Players’ Songwriters in the Round, Anna Maria.
• Oct. 18, Anna Maria Island Chamber of Commerce’s Bayfest, Anna Maria.
• Nov. 1, A Celestial Affair: The Bash at the Bishop, Bradenton.
• 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.
• Dec. 31, Bradenton Alive New Year’s Eve Celebration, Bradenton.
KIDS
& FAMILY ON AMI
Saturday, Sept. 20
11 a.m. — Kids pizza party, Island Library, 5701 Marina Drive, Holmes Beach. Info: 941-778-6341, mymanatee.org.
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
• Oct. 13, Goblin Gathering, Bradenton.
DEVINE DESIGN
ton.
•
•
• Dec. 5, Winter Wonderland, Bradenton. CLUBS & COMMUNITY ON AMI
Wednesday, Sept. 17
6 p.m. — Center of Anna Maria Island Co-Ed Community Circle gathering of support, connection and presence, 407 Magnolia Ave., Anna Maria. Info: 941-778-1908, culture@centerami.org. Thursday, Sept. 18
1 p.m. — Sunshine Stitchers Knit and Crochet, Island Library, 5701 Marina Drive, Holmes Beach. Info: 941-778-6341, mymanatee. org.
Thursday, Sept. 25
10 a.m. — Seaside Quilters, Island Library, 5701 Marina Drive, Holmes Beach. Info: 941-778-6341, mymanatee.org.
ONGOING ON AMI
• Most Fridays and Tuesdays, 11:30 a.m., mahjong, Island Library, 5701 Marina Drive, Holmes Beach. Info: 941-778-6341, mymanatee.org.
• First and third Tuesdays, noon, Rotary Club of Anna Maria Island luncheons, the Beach House patio, 200 Gulf Drive N., Bradenton Beach. Fee applies. Info: www.amirotary.org.
• Most Saturdays, 8:30 a.m., Kiwanis Club of Anna Maria Island meets, Bradenton Beach City Hall, 107 Gulf Drive N. Info: 941-7300016.
SAVE THE DATES
• Nov. 1, League of Women Voters of Manatee County Unite and Rise for Democracy, Bradenton.
• Nov. 1, the Bishop Museum’s A Celestial Affair gala, Bradenton.
• Nov. 8, Friends of Manatee County Animal Welfare Friendsgiving, Palmetto.
• April 11, 2026, Pace Center for Girls Lucky Ducky Race for Pace, Bradenton.
PUBLIC MARKETS
SAVE THE DATES
• Oct. 1, Coquina Beach Market, Bradenton Beach.
Weather report
anna maria elementary school students gather Sept. 4 with Bob Harrigan of aBc-7 after hearing from the chief meteorologist about local weather. Islander Photo: courtesy ame/Via facebook
• Oct. 4-May 30, 2026, Bradenton Public Market, Bradenton. Oct. 4, UF/IFAS Extension Manatee County Plant Sale, Palmetto.
• Oct. 7, Anna Maria Community Farmers Market opens, Anna Maria.
• Oct. 10, Market Night in City Center, Holmes Beach.
LESSONS & LEARNING ON AMI
Tuesday, Sept. 23
2 p.m. — Making Sense of Medicare and Medicare Enrollment, Island Library, 5701 Marina Drive, Holmes Beach. Info: 941-7786341, mymanatee.org.
SAVE THE DATES
• Oct. 24, Florida Maritime Museum Folk School mosaic class, Cortez.
• Oct. 30, Florida Maritime Museum Folk School bonsai class, Cortez.
OUTDOORS & NATURE
ONGOING OFF AMI
• Saturdays, 9 a.m., Manatee County Natural Resources Department’s Saturday Mornings at the NEST, 840 99th St. NW, Bradenton. Info: 941-7484501, mymanatee.org.
SAVE THE DATES
• Sept. 27, Robinson Preserve Starry Night Astronomy, Bradenton.
• Nov. 8, Kringles & Kayaks benefit, Bradenton.
• Dec. 18-21, Palma Sola Botanical Park’s Winter Nights Under the Lights, Bradenton.
CALENDAR NOTES
KEEP THE DATES
• Through Oct. 31, Sea turtle nesting season continues. •Through Nov. 30, Atlantic hurricane season continues.
• Oct. 13, Columbus Day.
• Oct. 13, Indigenous Peoples’ Day.
• Oct. 31, Halloween.
• Nov. 11, Veterans Day.
• Nov. 27, Thanksgiving.
• Dec. 25, Christmas.
ANNOUNCEMENTS GET LISTED!
Send listings to calendar@islander.org.
Anna Maria Community Farmers Market returns
The Anna Maria Community Farmers Market will resume operations Tuesday, Oct. 8, at a new venue — Roser Memorial Community Church instead of the Center of Anna Maria Island.
The weekly market will run 9 a.m.-2 p.m. Tuesdays through April at Roser, 512 Pine Ave., Anna Maria.
Vendors will sell produce, baked goods, fresh juices, coffee, tea, meat, poultry, art, jewelry, wellness products and other items.
Market presenters include the center, Roser Church and DBTB Juice Bar & Bakery.
Vendors interested in participating can email dbtbami@gmail.com.
For more info, call the center at 941-778-1908.
Odd Duck Designs Shop
Wearable T-shirt art by local artist Connie Wolgast. Scan here shop!
to
Oct. 31, Anna Maria Island Chamber of Commerce Trail of Treats, AMI business districts.
Oct. 31, Bradenton Alive Halloween Celebration, Braden-
Singer-songwriters to perform at Island Players theater
Three local musicians will perform original music at the Island Players theater at 7:30 p.m. Sunday, Sept. 28.
Mike Sales of Holmes Beach, Sara Nelms of Sarasota and Dean Johanesen of Ellenton will present acoustic performances in an intimate “in the round” format at the venue, 10009 Gulf Drive, Anna Maria.
Sales performs Gulf Coast-inspired music that blends calypso rhythms with island-style vocals.
Nelms is a classically trained indie vocalist who performs acoustic-based arrangements.
Johanesen draws from Americana, incorporating elements of hot club jazz and Western swing into his songwriting.
The theater has operated for 75 years, hosting theatrical productions and special events during the fall-winter-spring.
Doors will open at 7 p.m., with the show beginning at 7:30 p.m.
Advance tickets cost $12 while tickets at the door cost $15.
Tickets are available at mikesales.ticketspice.com/ island-players-theater-songwriter-series.
For more information, contact Sales at chill@ mikesalesmusic.com or 941-448-5798.
Artists’ Guild sets 2025-26 Market Nights calendar
The Artists’ Guild of Anna Maria Island announced the return of Market Nights for the 2025-26 season at the Holmes Beach shopping center in the 5400 block of Marina Drive.
The popular monthly events will run OctoberApril.
Each Market Night will feature AGAMI’s signature “Paint Around” activity, where participating artists collaboratively create a single artwork by passing it from painter to painter, with each contributor adding their own creative touch.
At the end of the evening, attendees can enter a raffle for the chance to win the completed collaborative piece.
Light refreshments will be provided throughout each event and AGAMI gallery members will be available to discuss their work and answer questions about the artistic process.
Additionally, each month will showcase work by a featured AGAMI member artist.
The Friday events run 5-7 p.m. and dates include Oct. 10, Nov. 14 and Dec. 5 in 2025 and Jan. 9, Feb. 13, March 13 and April 10 in 2026.
For more information, call the gallery at 941-7786694.
Kiwanis meets weekly
The Kiwanis Club of Anna Maria Island is gathering weekly at 8:30 a.m. Saturdays at Bradenton Beach City Hall, 107 Gulf Drive N.
For more information, call Sandy Haas-Martens at 941-730-0016.
Island happenings
from
a bowler on team Bubble Binz/anna maria charters steps down the lane Sept. 6 while playing in the annual greg laPensee Bowling tournament at Bowlero, 4208 cortez road w., Bradenton. the fundraiser benefits the center of anna maria Island, 407 magnolia ave., anna maria, and is sponsored by Holmes Beach-based laPensee Plumbing, Pools and air. Islander
courtesy center
a
AMI theater’s 2025-26 season opens with ‘Janus’
The Island Players will open the 2025-26 season of community theater on AMI with a run of “Janus,” a 1950s romantic-comedy by Carolyn Green.
The play will open Thursday, Sept. 18, at the Island Players theater, 10009 Gulf Drive, Anna Maria, and continues through Sept. 28.
Showtimes are 7:30 p.m. Tuesday-Saturday and 2 p.m. Sunday. The theater is dark Monday.
Mike Lusk is directing the show, which is about the wife of a tycoon who joins a schoolteacher each summer in New York to write a best-seller under their pen name, Janus. When the husband decides to visit, he gets a surprise.
The box offi ce is open 9 a.m.-1 p.m. Monday-
the Sept. 6
one-game
dina franklin wins the gutter Ball award Sept. 6 after rolling 35, the lowest score of the night. on the other end of the spectrum, Joey Newell won the top male bowler trophy with a score of 240 and Bridgette latessa won the top female bowler trophy after rolling 144. the kids’ trophy went to alex Serra, who rolled a 110.
Saturday and an hour before curtain.
The theater group is selling single tickets online at theislandplayers.org.
For more information, call 941-778-5755.
Photos:
of anna maria Island
Bowling benefit fills lanes with jellyfish, minions, Loraxes
Holmes Beach-based duffy’s tavern, a team dressed as the lorax of dr. Seuss fame, finishes as runner-up in the costume contest.
team representing laPensee Plumbing wins
tournament’s Best team trophy for rolling 872, the highest
team score of the night. they won a custom bowling pin, custom gnarly mangrove Koozies and a 24-pack of Bud light.
By Lisa Neff
Roser choir rehearsals begin
Roser Memorial Community Church’s chancel choir has started its fall rehearsals under the guidance of Kristen Stanton, former director of music ministries.
Hourlong rehearsals will be at 7 p.m. Sept. 25, Oct. 9, Oct. 23 and Oct. 30 at the church, 512 Pine Ave., Anna Maria.
For more information, call the church at 941-7780414.
Gathering Gathering is the religion section of The Islander. Submit announcements and photos to news@islander.org.
Obituaries
Garrett David Steger
Steger
Garrett David Steger, 44, of Bradenton and formerly of Bradenton Beach, died Sept. 9.
He was born Sept. 28, 1980, in Bradenton to Michele Steger and the late David Steger.
He grew up on Anna Maria Island in Bradenton Beach, where he loved
GoodDeeds
Cortez group seeks cookbook volunteers
The Cortez Cultural Center is seeking a volunteer to spearhead publication of a new edition of the “Cooking in Cortez” community cookbook.
A notice from the nonprofit read, “If you enjoy writing, organizing recipes and preserving local traditions, we’d love your help! This is a chance to celebrate the flavors and heritage of Cortez while creating something meaningful for generations to come.”
People interested in volunteering can email the CCC at cvhs2016@aol.com.
For more information about the center and the Cortez Village Historical Society, call 941-840-0590.
Assistance sought on AMI
• All Island Denominations accepts financial donations at P.O. Box 814, Anna Maria, FL 34216. Info: 941-778-4769.
• Anna Maria Island Concert Chorus and Orchestra seeks volunteers, donors and a venue space. Info: info@amicco.org.
• Anna Maria Island Historical Society, 402 Pine Ave., Anna Maria, seeks donations for restoration and volunteers. Info: 608-444-0084.
• Anna Maria Island Privateers seeks a covered building and/or land for the Skullywag, sleigh and other items. Info: amiprivateers.org.
• Florida Maritime Museum in Cortez, which is closed for renovations and repairs, seeks a temporary space — a pop-up space — for public exhibits. Info: 941-708-6120.
• Friends of the Island Library seeks volunteers, including for website management and graphic design. Info: 941-778-4255.
• Island Players in Anna Maria seeks volunteers in every area to “come and be part of our family.” Info: 941-920-1362.
• Wildlife Education and Rehabilitation Center in Bradenton Beach seeks gift cards for supplies. Info: 941-778-6324.
Assistance offered on AMI
• Roser Food Bank welcomes applicants for food assistance, Roser Church, 512 Pine Ave., Anna Maria. Info: 941-778-0414.
• All Island Denominations offers financial help. Info: 941-778-4769.
Email listings for GoodDeeds to lisa@islander. org.
At your service
fishing and surfing. He was a mechanic and welder.
He fought a brave battle against M.S.
He was dearly loved and will be missed by all.
A memorial service will be announced at a later date.
Mr. Steger is survived by his son, Bryce; mother Michele; sister Shauna; nephew Landen; niece Kaylie; and many aunts, uncles and cousins.
Obituaries are offered as a service to residents and families of residents, both past and present, as well as to those people with ties to the island. Submit to news@islander.org. Obituaries are provided free — a service of your community newspaper. Paid obituaries can be discussed with our advertising consultant at 941-778-7978.
Former AM P&Z chair shares island accomplishments, departure news
By ryan Paice Islander reporter
The former chair of the Anna Maria Planning and Zoning Board recently traded island life for family time.
David Haddox talked to The Islander Sept. 3 about his accomplishments during his time on the island and what’s next for him following his move to Blue Ridge, Georgia.
Haddox said he and his wife, Marsha McAllister, planned for their Anna Maria residence to be their forever home when they had it built seven years ago.
However, the birth of their only granddaughter four years back changed the equation.
In late August, the couple moved to Blue Ridge, a city located in the southern reaches of the Appalachian Mountains. It is a two-hour drive from Atlanta, where their granddaughter and three children live.
“They’re close enough where they can visit on the weekends, but not so close that they can drop her off unannounced,” Haddox said with a chuckle. “It’s going to be a chance for us to watch her grow and develop, so that’ll be a lot of fun.”
Now, Haddox and his wife are renting a farmhouse until they can finalize a home purchase in Blue Ridge.
He said he was already pleased with the drop in heat index from Florida to Georgia.
“The other day, I was sitting on the porch … around 7-8 p.m. and the heat index in Anna Maria
tary at Roser Memorial Community Church. Haddox said his proudest accomplishment involved identifying buoys and navigational markers that had gone missing from the waters around the city due to last year’s storms.
After determining what was missing, he helped identify the permit holders for each marker so they could be replaced.
“That was probably the biggest tangible thing I can point to where I think I really made a difference for the city,” he said.
While Haddox will continue to serve as the rear commander of America’s Boating Club | United States Power Squadron’s basic public education — a national role — he plans to be a little less involved in Georgia.
was 100 degrees and the heat index in Blue Ridge was 74 degrees,” Haddox said.
He added that, as a mountain boy from West Virginia, he was happy to live in the mountains again.
Nevertheless, Haddox said he will miss his island friends and favorite local eateries, like The Porch Restaurant and Ginny’s & Jane E’s Cafe and Gift Shop.
“We had a great time in our seven years in Anna Maria and made some great friends, got really involved,” he said.
His local involvement included serving as chair of the P&Z and commander of the Anna Maria Island Sail & Power Squadron, as well as a financial secre-
“I had a pretty active ‘retirement’ and the Power Squadron is a pretty big commitment,” he said. “So I’m trying to budget my time a little bit. … I’ll see how things go for a year or so and decide how much more I want to get involved.”
In the meantime, Haddox’s departure has left one seat on the P&Z open and its chair up for grabs.
The board will appoint a new chairperson during its next meeting at 9 a.m. Wednesday, Sept. 17, at city hall, 10005 Gulf Drive.
Application forms to fill the open P&Z seat can be found on the city’s website.
They must be completed and delivered to city hall or emailed to executive assistant Barbara Jeffries at amadmin@cityofannamaria.com.
Stanton
dave Haddox takes a closer look at mosaic artist’s Judy Vasquez creations during an artful evening at the anna maria Island Historical Society museum in January 2024. Islander file Photo
Streetlife
Island police reports
Anna Maria
Sept. 3, 100 block of Palm Avenue, animal bite. A Manatee County Sheriff’s Office deputy responded to a call concerning a person who claimed to be bitten by a loose dog. An incident report was filed.
The MCSO polices Anna Maria.
Bradenton Beach
No new reports.
The Bradenton Beach Police Department polices the city.
Cortez
No new reports.
The MCSO polices the village.
Holmes Beach
Sept. 7, 5700 block of Holmes Boulevard, suspicious circumstances. A Holmes Beach police officer met with a complainant who said she found an Apple AirTag on her rental vehicle. The officer contacted the rental company and spoke with a representative, who could not answer if the device was owned by the company. The HBPD officer provided the complainant with a case card, removed the AirTag and placed it in storage.
Sept. 7, 400 block of 72nd Street, bicycle accident. An officer spoke with a boy’s parents, who said their son was riding in the 7400 block of Marina Drive when he was clotheslined at neck-level by a rope. Manatee County Emergency Medical Services and West Manatee Fire Rescue responded and found there was no medical emergency necessitating transport to a hospital. The officer found the rope between a bush and a utility box and nothing “indicated to us that the rope was put up for an illegitimate, malicious or criminal purpose,” according to a report.
Sept. 8, 5300 block of Gulf Drive, trespass. An officer found a man at a Manatee County Area Transit stop where he had recently been trespassed. The officer also found the man had an active arrest warrant in Manatee, so he arrested the man, who was transported to Manatee Memorial Hospital in Bradenton to be evaluated for a skin infection, then to the Manatee County jail.
The HBPD polices the city.
Streetlife is based on law enforcement reports.
— robert anderson and ryan Paice
LBK commits to roundabout
Longboat Key is committing nearly $1.7 million toward a long-planned roundabout at Broadway Street and Gulf of Mexico Drive on the north end.
The project is expected to cost between $5.4 million and $6 million, with utility relocation at $989,184.
The Florida Department of Transportation is funding the bulk of construction and serving as project lead.
LBK commissioners Sept. 8 authorized the utility work and agreed to handle landscaping and brick paver maintenance after the roundabout is built.
Town leaders have long maintained that the intersection currently creates congestion and hazards for pedestrians and cyclists trying to cross Gulf of Mexico Drive.
According to town engineer Jennifer Fehrs, design work is scheduled for completion in February 2026.
The DOT set a letting date for construction bids on Aug. 26, 2026, with actual construction expected to begin 30-60 days after a notice-to-proceed is issued.
— robert anderson
AM exempts owners from Bean Point no-swim order
By ryan Paice Islander reporter
Anna Maria’s post of “no swimming” at Bean Point is now in the code book.
But residents do not need to worry about losing access to the water at the north end.
City commissioners unanimously voted Sept. 11 to approve an emergency ordinance prohibiting people — not including owners and guests of homes with riparian rights in the area — from swimming in the waters off Bean Point.
The no-swim zone runs along the beach from the Fern Avenue beach access to the city’s northernmost beach access between 831 N. Shore Drive and 833 N. Shore Drive.
The measure comes in response to two waterrelated deaths in those waters in August.
A 45-year-old man was pulled under by rip currents on Aug. 9 while swimming off Bean Point and later died at a Bradenton hospital.
Then Lakeland resident Abhigyan Patel, 20, disappeared while swimming off Bean Point Aug. 31. His body was found Sept. 1 a mile west of AMI.
The city acted over the first week of September, when it installed “No Swimming” signs along the shores of the area and began enforcing swimming prohibitions in the area.
However, until the Sept. 11 meeting, the no-swim zone was not reflected in city code.
Mayor Mark Short presented the emergency ordinance to city commissioners. He said it would last 60 days, over which time the municipality would work with Manatee County to come up with a permanent solution.
The emergency ordinance prohibits “swimming, floating, rafting, paddleboarding, kayaking, or other similar water-based activities” in the area, but allows for fishing and wading in water up to knee depth.
The penalty for violating the ordinance is a noncriminal municipal infraction.
A few public speakers objected to the blanket prohibition.
Sydney Buckley, vice president of Anna Mariabased Tangerine Group, voiced support for the safety measure, but said allowances should be made for residents.
She said that, as a real estate agent on the island, the prohibition would be a “major factor” when considering the sale of properties in the no-swimming area.
Resident John Dicks said the action would be a classic example of a “taking” of property rights and would open the city up to legal claims under the Bert Harris Act.
He asked city commissioners to reconsider what he called a “knee-jerk reaction” and add an exemption for property owners with riparian rights in the no-swim zone to access the water.
Dicks said the problem is related to uninformed island visitors, not residents, who know how dangerous swimming in the waters at Bean Point can be.
City attorney Becky Vose said that if the action did result in Bert Harris claims against the city, settlements with involved property owners could be easily resolved — likely by allowing them access to the waters in the no-swimming area.
She recommended implementing an exemption into the emergency ordinance for owners and guests of property — other than vacation rentals — with riparian rights along the designated area.
Commissioner Gary McMullen moved to approve the emergency ordinance, with Vose’s recommended changes.
Commissioner Christopher Arendt seconded the motion, which passed.
The city commission will meet next at 5:01 p.m. Thursday, Sept. 25, at city hall, 10005 Gulf Drive.
Vigil planned for slain teen ahead of sentencing
A Sept. 21 vigil will honor Jann Michael Feeney, a Manatee High School student fatally shot at a Bradenton residence in 2024.
Feeney, 16, worked at the Beach House Restaurant in Bradenton Beach alongside his mother and sister and played sports at the Center of Anna Maria Island.
Feeney was shot and killed March 8, 2024, outside a friend’s house in Bradenton. Carter Layne, 19, of Palmetto, has pleaded no contest to a manslaughter charge and is facing a sentencing hearing Sept. 24 at
the Manatee County Judicial Center in Bradenton.
A Manatee County Sheriff’s Office report states that witnesses observed Layne, under the influence of alcohol and marijuana, waving a revolver that he said was not loaded. “The victim … in joking manner said the gun was not loaded. Carter Layne pointed the gun at the victim’s chest and pulled the trigger. … The victim fell to the ground,” the MCSO report states.
The vigil will be at 6:30 p.m. Sunday, Sept. 21, outside the judicial center. Organizers on social media said the event is to call for accountability and they asked people to submit victim impact letters calling on the court to deny Layne “youthful offender” consideration.
— robert anderson
the town of longboat Key wants a traffic calming circle at Broadway Street and gulf of mexico drive on the north end. Islander Photo: courtesy longboat Key
Nesting notes
By Lisa Neff
AMITW: no new nests
“We are pretty certain the turtle mamas are done for the season,” Kristen Mazzarella, executive director of Anna Maria Island Turtle Watch and Shorebird Monitoring, says of the 2025 nesting season.
For the week ending Sept. 12, AMITW documented no new sea turtle nests on island beaches.
AMITW also was only monitoring 64 nests with less than two months remaining in the season, which concludes Oct. 31.
“We continue daily patrols to check all nests and complete nest excavations,” Mazzarella said, adding that beachgoers and waterfront property owners should continue to observe best practices, including lights out at night.
AMITW reported one disorientation for the week ending Sept. 12, a positive in a season with 30 adult disorientations and 141 hatchling disorientations.
a green hatchling is found during a nest excavation. the hatchling was released and made it safely to the water.
Islander
Photo: courtesy amy waterbury
winnie, anna maria Island’s entry in the 2025 tour de turtles presented by the Sea turtle conservancy, has traveled about 187 miles in the science-focused migration marathon. the loggerhead, swimming in eighth place out of 12 sea turtles, was tagged with a satellite tracker in June at coquina Beach in Bradenton Beach. the tour de turtles officially began aug. 1 and continues through oct. 31. for more, go to tourdeturtles.org. Islander Screenshot
as of Sept. 12, amItw reported 542 sea turtle nests, 828 false crawls, 402 hatched nests and 29,523 hatchlings produced.
Drift-In owner disputes making AMOB complaint
By robert anderson Islander reporter
Controversy over an alleged complaint made to the Florida Department of Environmental Protection has reignited tensions in Bradenton Beach.
Drift-In AMI owner Derrick Williams, who spent months — and likely plenty of money — navigating permitting disputes with Bradenton Beach to reopen his Bridge Street bar after the 2024 hurricanes, told commissioners Sept. 4 he was unsettled by recent remarks from city attorney Ricinda Perry that he filed a complaint with the state against the Anna Maria Oyster Bar on the Historic Bridge Street Pier. Williams’ efforts to reopen his business were slowed by controversy over a December 2024 permit — approved by then-building official Darin Cushing — and questioned by Perry. Perry said the project should have been classified as a major development with commission approval.
The bar reopened under a temporary use permit approved by the city in March.
Against that backdrop, Williams said a rumor that he lodged a complaint with the state regarding AMOB’s new tiki huts was false and damaging.
“I had a local merchant come to me in the last week and tell me that Mrs. Perry has spoken to them directly … and informed them that I have personally, Derrick Williams, reported them for certain legal issues, which I’m a thousand percent sure I did not do,” Williams said during public comment. “I just really don’t appreciate it. I got direct phone calls from those people.”
Later in the meeting, Perry said the DEP told her the complaint about tiki construction at the AMOB “was provided … by an individual from Drift-In.”
She said she repeated that information to AMOB owner John Horne and told him the complaint required the city and AMOB take steps to clear up the issues.
The Islander reached out to Oysters Rock Hospitality-AMOB executive vice president Eleni Sokos
Winnie’s swim
PleaSe, See DRIFT-IN, NeXt Page
Perry williams
Gag grouper season shuts down, anglers focus on linesiders
By capt. danny Stasny Islander reporter
With gag grouper season having come and gone, Anna Maria Island anglers are focusing their efforts on the shallows in search of a keeper-size snook. Respectable numbers of snook are carousing along the beaches around the schools of bait that are gathering in the shallows.
Fishing the Gulf beaches for snook can be a pleasurable experience as long as the waters are calm and clear. These conditions present a window of opportunity that is worth investigating in many instances, as an angler is able to sight-cast to the targeted fish. And if you’re an avid angler, you know that this method can be one of the most exciting techniques as you literally watch the fish strike your bait.
And, for the selective angler, it gives the angler the choice of picking the fish you want. This doesn’t always work, but when it does, it sure is a satisfying feeling for the angler.
With the slot size set by the Florida Fish and Wildlife conservation Commission, keeper-snook have to be considerably large, so weeding out the small ones can make the job easier.
If beach fishing isn’t your thing, there are snook being caught on the flats, too. Mangrove shorelines are great habitat for linesiders as they attract bait fish and provides the angler with ambush points and the fish with areas to hide from other predators, including dolphin. And just because it’s shallow in these areas, don’t think that a large snook won’t be prowling along the mangrove roots in search of a meal.
If you’re hunting only large snook — slot-size or over-slot — then fishing deeper areas might be best. Jetties, piers, bridges and other structure in these deeper waters make great hideouts for big snook. Add some good tidal flow and a surplus of food and you’re in the right spot.
Remember to handle the big fish with care because
DRIFT-IN coNtINued from Page 12 Sept. 14, who declined to comment.
“So now the city is facing a lot of time. We had to pay for a sovereign submerged-land lease survey and we have to go through the application process and we have to go through a temporary use permit from the FDEP and then go to the (state) board of trustees to resolve the little thatched roofs that Mr. Horne put on the railing,” Perry said.
However, Perry told commissioners the city could take the opportunity to expand the state lease.
She said they could add regulations for vessels that use the floating dock.
The DEP application is expected to go before the state board of trustees in December.
City commissioners will meet at 10:30 a.m. Sept. 16, to review the city attorney’s performance,” a followup to the discussion on a DEP letter.
Perry alleged the letter was prompted by a complaint from Drift-In bar owner Derek Williams. However, a Sept. 9 email from the DEP to Williams confirms he made no complaint and there is no record of a complaint with the state regarding AMOB.
The meeting will take place at Bradenton Beach City Hall, 107 Gulf Drive.
they are our breed stock. After a long battle, give them plenty of time to regain strength before the release.
Don’t forget, snook must be 28-33 inches to be a keeper and each angler is allowed one fish per day.
Capt. David White is catching plenty of mangrove snapper on his inshore and nearshore charters. Using small live shiners as bait around structure in Tampa Bay and in the Gulf of Mexico is leading to limits of the popular inshore snapper. When bait schools are over structure, Spanish mackerel are being found. On most days they are easily caught by free-lining a live shiner on a long shank hook, says White. Other species, such as jack crevalle and ladyfish also are in the mix.
Moving to the shallows around grass flats of Tampa Bay, White is fishing his clients on mangrove shorelines and oyster bars. These areas are yielding both redfish and snook and using live shiners as bait
a happy terry guetarni of fort lauderdale, front, and capt. david white celebrate catching two gag groupers 7 miles offshore Sept. 10. white put guetarni on the gags while trolling plugs and, he added, they also were “happily eaten.
Ben rosales of Brooklyn, New York, shows off a nice a cobia he caught Sept. 12 while fishing with capt. danny Stasny of Just reel fishing charters.
is resulting in many snook bites, as well as a few reds. Switching to dead baits — fresh-cut lady fish — is attracting more redfish to the hook, says White.
Capt. Johnny Mattay of Anna Maria Charters is gearing up to target red grouper now that gag grouper season is over. Targeting red grouper in depths of 100feet or more is yielding plenty of action for Mattay’s anglers. Limits of red grouper are attainable on most offshore trips as well as a mix of mangrove and yellowtail snappers.
Moving inshore, Mattay is finding good action on redfish when casting bait around mangrove shorelines, oyster bars and residential docks. All three areas are prime habitat to find redfish and most are producing a bite. Live or dead baits are working, although the bite varies from day today, reports Mattay.
Snook season is going well for Mattay as he is finding clients a slot-size fish on most of his flats trips. Larger shiners are Mattay’s bait of choice although the smaller ones are working, too, as long as an accurate cast is made.
Lastly, Mattay says targeting mangrove snapper around inshore and nearshore structure is still going well. Small shiners as bait are working best. Send high-resolution photos and fishing reports to fish@islander.org.
County organizing fishing club, meeting set for Sept. 20
The Manatee County Natural Resources Department will host a meeting of its newly formed fishing club at 11 a.m. Saturday, Sept. 20, at the Perico Bayou kayak launch at Robinson Preserve in northwest Bradenton.
An announcement asked, “ Looking to try fi shing? Have a burning question about a lure or rig?” and invited people to attend the meeting.
“Bring your fishing gear or borrow ours and come get your answers at Fishing Club! Instructors can answer your questions, teach you the basics or just recommend the best places to fish in the preserve.”
For more information about the club, email sara. alvarezcollazo@mymanatee.org.
For information about the natural resources department, call 941-748-4501.
— lisa Neff
Stasny
Center adult teams eye football finale
By Kevin P. Cassidy Islander Reporter
The regular season of adult flag football at the Center of Anna Maria Island came to an end Sept. 12 with rain makeup games from Aug. 6.
The final seeds are set for the playoffs, which get started Sept. 19. The top five teams — Solid Rock Electrical, Solid Rock Construction, Slim’s Place, Salty Printing and Coaster Continent — received first-round byes.
So action will see G.I. Bins take on Edible Cookie Dough Cafe, Moss Builders will face off against Reel Coastal Properties and Cortez Pump & Sprinkler will match up with Bubble Binz.
Action Sept. 12 saw Slim’s Place win a 48-40 victory over Coaster Continent behind seven touchdown passes from quarterback Chase Richardson, including three to Jaden Grant. Connor Ludwig added a pair of TD grabs and three sacks, while Tim Holly finished with one TD.
Matt Manger of Coaster Continent had six touchdown passes, including three to Karri Stephens. Steven Pavina, Olvin Izquierdo and Cody Allen each finished with touchdown grabs in the loss.
The second scheduled “game” of the night saw G.I. Bins gifted a victory when Cortez Pump & Sprinkler failed to field a team.
Moss Builders defeated Reel Coastal Properties 25-12 behind three touchdown passes from Ray Gardner and two touchdown receptions each from Anthony Mannino and Connor Morse. James Roadman completed the scoring for Moss Builders with a TD pass.
Reel Coastal Properties was led by Zachariah Anabtawi, who threw a touchdown pass to Isaiah Lambert and ran for another touchdown.
Solid Rock Electrical “Cruzed” to a 38-7 victory over Edible Cookie Dough Cafe behind five TD passes from Cruz Rodriguez and five TD receptions
from Christian Hampton. Jacci Allen added a TD pass and Evelyn Long added a TD grab and a pair of extra points in the victory.
Dallas Buchholtz threw a touchdown pass to Jacob Ferda and an extra-point pass to Anthony McCance for the Dough Cafe in the loss.
The next game saw Solid Rock Construction hold on for a 28-21 victory over Salty Printing. Tuna McCracken threw three TD passes and added a rushing TD to lead Solid Rock, which also scored on two receiving TDs from Blake Balais and a TD from Kevin Roman in the victory.
Migule Rodriguez threw three touchdown passes, including two to Corey Von Borstel for Salty Printing in the loss.
The last game saw Solid Rock Electrical win its second game of the evening 48-19 . Cruz Rodriguez led the way with five TD passes and a TD run on offense. Christian Hampton finished with three TD catches for Solid Rock Electrical, which also received TD grabs from Jacci Allen and Zachary Long in the victory.
Steve Wolfe paced G.I. Bins with three TD passes to three receivers. Christian Mcpherson, Joey Bacon and Tristan Szabo each scored on catches with Szabo also adding an extra-point catch in the loss.
KRC news
Golf at the Key Royale Club in Holmes Beach was limited by rain, which canceled outings Sept. 8 and Sept. 9.
The course opened up for a scramble Sept. 11 that saw the team of Mike Clements, Tom Nelson and Quentin Talbert match the 4-under-par carded by Joe Coyne, John Kolojeski, Rich Salzburg and Warren Stevens to finish in a tie for first.
pool play to win the Sept. 10 horseshoe games at the Anna Maria City Hall pits. Islander Photo: Courtesy AMI Pitchers
Horseshoe action
Horseshoe action at the Anna Maria City Hall pits Sept. 10 saw Gersey Fernandes and Tom Farrington forge the lone 3-0 record in pool play to be the day’s outright champs.
Action Sept. 13 at the pits saw Jerry Jackson walk his way to the lone 3-0 record, earning him the day’s bragging rights.
Play gets underway at 9 a.m. Wednesdays and Saturdays at the with warmups at 8:45 a.m., followed by random team selection.
Repair plans set for HB city field
City
City engineer and public works director Sage Kamiya said repair work would involve grading, filling and seeding the soccer field, as well as fixing power lines and irrigation damaged in the debris removal process.
Mayor Judy Titsworth recommended the city also have the contractor sod the soccer field and baseball outfield for an additional $90,000, bringing the cost to $281,199.
Kamiya did not provide a timeline for the completion of that work but told commissioners that Digging Deep would be able to start within a couple of weeks.
— Ryan Paice
Cassidy
Gersey Fernandes, left, and tom Farrington posted the only perfect record in
Holmes Beach’s City Field has not been the same since it was freed from the debris mountain built following hurricanes Helene and Milton.
commissioners voted Sept. 11 to approve a work order with Bradentonbased Digging Deep Construction Services to repair the park north of city hall.
By Lisa Neff
Seaweed snare
You know the familiar saying during the summer months: “Lights out for sea turtles.”
Or maybe you’ve seen the bumper sticker, “Sea turtles dig the dark.”
Islanders know artificial lights on the beaches can pose hazards for nesting and hatching sea turtles, which can become disoriented by lights and drawn away from the Gulf to disaster.
Beach furniture, deep holes in the sand and human interaction also pose hazards to sea turtles, as do domestic and wild animals on the beaches. Even little crabs in the sand can kill hatchlings.
But did you ever think of seaweed on the shore as a threat to sea turtles?
New research from Florida Atlantic University’s Charles E. Schmidt College of Science indicates that piles of sargassum seaweed washing up on Florida’s shores is becoming a threat to hatchlings.
Researchers set out to explore whether sargassum buildup makes it more physically demanding for hatchlings to crawl to the water and whether that added effort affects their survival.
The study focused on three sea turtle species that nest in the state: leatherbacks, loggerheads and green
turtles, with the researchers working from three Florida locations — Juno Beach, Jupiter and Boca Raton, all on the Atlantic coast.
The researchers created controlled crawlways on the sand to simulate a hatchling’s natural path to the water, adding loose mats of sargassum up to about 7.5 inches high at the end of a 50-foot path.
They then placed a dim light to guide hatchlings forward, simulating the natural light over the ocean that the turtles would instinctively follow.
This, according to the research published in the Journal of Coastal Research, allowed the researchers to measure the impact of crawling through sargassum and observe the hatchlings from a distance to avoid interfering with their natural behavior.
The researchers found that all three species of
FISH Preserve trails, foot bridges near finish line in Cortez
By Robert Anderson Islander Reporter
The nonprofit Florida Institute for Saltwater Heritage is advancing a trail project in the 95-acre FISH Preserve while also completing a mango tree initiative throughout the historic Cortez village.
FISH board members, meeting Sept. 8 at the Cortez Cultural Center, highlighted progress on trail restoration, signage and picnic shelters within the preserve on the east side of the village.
FISH member Alan Garner, who’s overseeing the improvements, said that footbridges are complete. However, there is some flooding in low-lying portions of trails between the bridges.
“It’s dry about 90% of the time,” Garner said. “When we have an extreme tide … it’s usually not (flooded) more than about three or four hours. I think it’s better to keep it that way than to build up embankment-type trails everywhere.”
Garner said work is underway on educational signage along the trails. Composite and fiberglass sign panels were being prepared for installation and he estimated a dedication event could be held in early
November.
Meanwhile, board member Karen Bell reported on the purchase, distribution and planting of mango trees in the historic area of Cortez, including at the old firehouse and the Fishermen’s Hall.
Many older trees were lost last fall during hurricanes Helene and Milton, which brought floodwaters and high winds to the village.
To replace the trees lost, 60 mango trees were acquired for giveaways to more than 50 properties.
“I thought it was interesting that the mangos are five different varieties,” FISH treasurer Jane von Hahmann said. “They’re all newer varieties now than the traditional names that we’ve heard of.”
Varieties planted include Florigon, Lemon Meringue, Carrie, Malika and Cotton Candy.
About FISH
FISH, founded in 1991, manages the FISH Preserve, the village boat shop, Fishermen’s Hall and the historic Cortez firehouse. The 12-member board also directs the annual Cortez Commercial Fishing Festival, which celebrates the village’s fishing heritage.
hatchlings took significantly longer to complete their crawl when sargassum was present and that the time taken to climb up and over seaweed piles was the primary reason.
Based on median values, leatherbacks took 54% longer to crawl through light sargassum and 158% longer through heavy sargassum.
Loggerheads were slowed by 91% in light sargassum conditions and 175% in heavy conditions.
Green turtles saw delays of 75% in light sargassum and 159% in heavy.
Crawl speeds decreased sharply for all species in sargassum sections, with loggerheads, the species most common on Anna Maria Island, showing the most significant slowdown.
The study also found that hatchlings often flipped upside down — called an inversion, while trying to climb sargassum. One hatchling flipped more than 20 times in a trial, according to Florida Atlantic.
Both the longer crawl periods and inversions extend hatchlings’ time on the beach, which increases their risk of predation.
The researchers also measured hatchlings’ blood glucose levels to assess energy use during the crawl, but found no significant differences in blood glucose levels between the hatchlings that crawled through sargassum and those that didn’t. This suggested that crawling over sargassum didn’t immediately deplete measurable energy stores.
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Neff
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A leatherback hatchling navigates over sargassum on Juno Beach in July 2021. Islander Photo: Courtesy Abbey M. Appelt/Florida Atlantic University
Rick Lawson collects a mango tree as FISH treasurer Jane von Hahmann helps with distribution outside Fishermen’s Hall in Cortez. Islander Photo: Courtesy Kris Martinez
Wedding business earns national recognition
AMI Beach Weddings was named to the U.S. Chamber of Commerce’s CO-100: America’s Top 100 Small Businesses list, after being selected from more than 12,500 nationwide applicants.
The company was recognized for its growth, community impact and destination wedding expertise on Florida’s Gulf Coast.
The business also received the chamber’s Customer Champion distinction, awarded to 10 companies nationwide for exceptional customer experiences.
“This recognition is a reflection of why we do this work: to celebrate love, lift up local small businesses and support our community,” Karen Riley-Love, AMI Beach Weddings founder and owner, said in a news release.
Riley-Love, a contributing photographer to The Islander, will attend an awards ceremony in Washington, D.C., in October.
For more information, call 941-527-6000 or go to amibeachweddings.com.
— Lisa Neff
Chamber makes expo plans
The Manatee Chamber of Commerce will hold its Fall Expo in November.
A notice said, Manatee Chamber’s Fall Expo brings together hundreds of community members to discover local businesses and nonprofits while enjoying complimentary bites from chamber member restaurants, entertainment, door prizes and more.”
The expo will be 4-7 p.m. Thursday, Nov. 13, at LECOM Park, 1611 Ninth St. W., Bradenton.
Tickets cost $5 in advance, $10 at the gate.
For more information, go online to www.manateechamber.com or call 941-748-3411.
— Lisa Neff
Rod & Reel collecting old images for restaurant space
The Rod & Reel Pier restaurant issued a call for people to share archival images of the old pier restaurant, which was destroyed by last fall’s hurricanes.
“If you have any images, newspaper articles or old advertisements of the Rod & Reel Pier that you are willing to share a copy of with us we would like to use them in the plaza location once our renovation process is over!” read a social media post.
Work is underway to open a new Rod & Reel restaurant on East Bay Drive in Holmes Beach. An opening date was not announced as of Sept. 15. The pier owner also has said there are plans to rebuild.
People can email images to mail@rodreelpier. com.
— Lisa Neff
Cheesecake Cutie to close
Cheesecake Cutie and Cafe announced via social media plans to close its store, 3324 E. Bay Drive, Holmes Beach, in December.
A post on Facebook said in part, “The financial strain has been heavy, especially after the hurricanes, and the daily demands of trying to make ends meet has taken more from us than we could have imagined, time with our children, our marriage, and even our own emotional/mental health. As much as we’ve tried to keep pushing forward, we’ve reached a point where the cost is simply too great for our family.”
With plans to remain open until December, Cheesecake Cutie encouraged continued customer support: “Come by for your favorite cheesecakes, order a coffee, grab some truffles, treats for your pups or even a bottle of dressing.”
For more information, go to cheescakecutie.com or call 941-779-2253.
— Lisa Neff
Drift-In AMI sets anniversary party
The Drift-In AMI, 120 Bridge St., Bradenton Beach, will celebrate a 100th anniversary on Saturday, Oct. 11.
IslBizCal
By Lisa Neff
SAVE THE DATES
• Sept. 25, 5-7 p.m., Anna Maria Island Chamber business card exchange with Mean Deans, Bradenton.
• Oct. 18, 10 a.m.-9 p.m., AMI Chamber Bayfest, Anna Maria.
• Oct. 31, 4 p.m., AMI Chamber Trail of Treats, AMI business districts.
Welcome
Lennon
Michele Self, born 07/02/25, at 10:10pm, weighing 6lbs 12oz, and measuring 19.5in. Mom and Dad have been busy, but they are loving this perfect angel.
Fleet
Downtime = Money Down the
Drain! At Grooms Motors, we don’t just fix vehicles — we protect your business. Following manufacturer guidelines and specs keeps your fleet under warranty and running smoothly. Did you know? Unplanned fleet downtime can cost businesses 20–40% more than scheduled maintenance.
Preventive maintenance can save up to $6,000 per vehicle per year by avoiding major repairs and lost productivity. A single breakdown isn’t just a repair bill — it’s lost revenue, frustrated customers, and delayed deliveries. Keep your fleet healthy, warranty-protected, and money-saving. Because at Grooms Motors, we know a smart fleet is a profitable fleet.
A save the date notice on social media said, “It’s time to party! … Exactly one year to the day that Bradenton Beach reopened to businesses after hurricanes Helene and Milton, we are hosting our 100th birthday. This milestone will be part of Sundown Get Down Block Party hosted by the Bradenton Beach Merchants Association and include special recognition to our first responders.”
For more information, call the Drift-In at 941-7788565 or go to driftinami.com.
— Lisa Neff
• Nov. 13, 4-7 p.m., Manatee Chamber Fall Expo at LECOM Park, Bradenton.
Send listings to calendar@islander.org.
Business news
The Islander welcomes business news, including announcements of operational changes, expansions, achievements.Please, email news@ islander.org with notices, Include a contact name and phone number. Photos appreciated.
note
A pelican uses a piling for a lookout for a meal at the Rod & Reel Pier in Anna Maria in 1998. the pier stood on tampa Bay until last fall, when it was swept away by Hurricane Milton. Islander Photo: Manatee County Public Library archives
People gather for a 2023 fundraiser at Cheesecake Cutie and Cafe in Holmes Beach. Islander File Photo
Holmes Beach holds off on joining SB 180 lawsuit
By Ryan Paice Islander Reporter
The city of Holmes Beach is supportive of a lawsuit against Florida Senate Bill 180.
But, for now, the city will support the cause from the sidelines.
City commissioners agreed Sept. 11 to table a discussion about joining a joint lawsuit against SB 180, alongside Manatee County and 13 other cities and counties.
The measure, signed into law June 26 by Gov. Ron DeSantis, was sponsored by Sen. Nick DiCeglie, R-St. Petersburg, who has said the legislation ensures stormdamaged properties can be rebuilt without additional delays or burdens.
The law does that by preventing local governments from increasing building permit or inspection fees within 180 days of a declared state of emergency for a hurricane or tropical storm.
The law also prohibits impacted local governments — when a county is declared a federal disaster area or a part of a county is within 100 miles of a hurricane’s track — from proposing or adopting:
• Any moratoria on construction, reconstruction or redevelopment;
• More restrictive or burdensome amendments to
a comprehensive plan or land development regulations;
• More restrictive or burdensome procedures for review, approval or issuance of site plans and development permits or orders.
While that criteria applies to local governments impacted by future storms, the statute also applies to governments impacted by hurricanes last year — Debby, Helene and Milton — until Oct. 1, 2027.
The new law led the Manatee Board of County Commissioners to postpone an Aug. 21 vote that would have restored wetland buffers rolled back by a previous board due to concerns of potential legal repercussions and state action.
So the county board voted 6-1 Sept. 2 to join 13 other government bodies in Fort Lauderdale attorney Jamie Cole’s pending legal challenge against SB 180.
Commissioner Mike Rahn voted “no.”
Cole has argued that the bill is unconstitutional because it imposes a blanket statewide prohibition on the exercise of home rule over land use and zoning regulations.
The entry fee to join the lawsuit, which is expected to be filed later this month, is $10,000.
Holmes Beach city attorney Erica Augello said at the city commission’s Sept. 11 meeting that the lawsuit
Anna Maria approves pay-to-park lot on Gulf Drive
By Ryan Paice Islander Reporter
More than 20 parking spaces in Anna Maria are set to open up for public use — for a price.
City commissioners unanimously voted Sept. 11 to approve a site plan to improve two vacant lots at 9806 Gulf Drive into a pay-to-park lot managed by Sarasota-based Easy Parking Group.
The property, zoned residential/office/retail district, is next to Robinhood Rentals AMI and across Gulf Drive from Ginny’s & Jane E’s Cafe and Gift Store.
Bradenton resident Jerry Hynton owns the property through JRHAMI.
The unpaved lot will have 22 spaces, including one accessible space compliant with the U.S. Americans with Disabilities Act, which ensures equal opportunity to public accommodations.
The approved site plan shows locations for a payment kiosk and six parking management signs with QR codes.
People who park in the lot will pay at the kiosk, via application or text message.
Josh LaRose of Easy Parking Group has said the cost of parking in the lot would be $5-$7 per hour and EPG employees would monitor the property.
City planner Ashley Austin told commissioners the proposed use is consistent with the municipality’s ROR zoning district, city code and the comprehensive plan.
The site plan includes a required landscape buffer adjacent to residential property to the west, as well as an unrequired landscape buffer along the property’s southern boundary.
... 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.
However, Austin said the adjacent property owner on the south side requested removal of the landscape buffer to eliminate potential access conflicts.
She said staff recommended approval of the site plan, with the condition that the southern landscape buffer is removed.
The city’s planning and zoning board had unanimously voted Aug. 20 to recommend commission approval with the recommended condition.
Commissioner Christopher Arendt said he was “all for” opening parking spots on the north end by approving the site plan.
There was no public comment.
Commissioner Gary McMullen moved to approve the proposed site plan without the southern landscape buffer.
Arendt seconded the motion, which passed.
In other matters…
City commissioners also:
• Unanimously voted to approve a variance for property at 102 Tuna St. and 104 Tuna St., where existing homes became nonconforming with city code due to a recent subdivision;
• Unanimously voted to approve a variance to rebuild a nonconforming dock, with a stipulation that no mangroves at the property are removed;
• Unanimously voted on a motion to approve debris removal contracts with Louisiana-based Dynamic Group, Pompano Beach-based Rapid Response Disaster Services, Texas-based TFR Enterprises and New York-based United Freight Services in the event of an emergency;
• Unanimously voted to approve a contract with Texas-based AC Disaster Consulting for comprehensive disaster recovery management services.
The city commission will meet next at 5:01 p.m. Thursday, Sept. 25, at city hall, 10005 Gulf Drive.
already had enough parties to move forward, having surpassed Cole’s initial goal of 10 participants.
Mayor Judy Titsworth said she was “proud” of the county for joining the suit and would support the decision to join if city commissioners voted to do so.
“We know what it feels like to get trampled on and I support their efforts to protect home rule,” she said.
Nevertheless, Titsworth added that the city fell under the county’s umbrella, so it did not need to expend taxpayer money to be represented in the lawsuit.
Commissioner Carol Soustek said she wanted to “sit back,” wait it out and see how the matter unfolded. She said the city could support the county without joining the litigation.
Commissioner Steve Oelfke asked if the city had to make an immediate decision about joining the lawsuit.
Augello said the city could wait and explore joining the lawsuit at a later date, since similar lawsuits accepted new plaintiffs all the way up to a resolution.
Commissioners agreed to table the matter.
In other matters…
City commissioners also:
• Unanimously voted to approve a resolution amending the municipality’s fiscal 2024-25 budget to account for donations of $47,031 for city field pickleball courts and $4,171.41 for Islanders 4 Clean Water calendars, as well as other items;
• Unanimously voted to approve a resolution adopting the Manatee County Local Mitigation Strategy;
• Held a first reading for an ordinance vacating a portion of a 10-foot-wide alley between a group of platted lots at 2902 Ave. E.
The city commission will meet next at 2 p.m. Thursday, Sept. 25, at city hall, 5801 Marina Drive.
roadWatch
Eyes on the road
Cortez Bridge utility relocation project: Pipe installation and related activities are ongoing in preparation for the construction of the new Cortez Bridge. People can expect the presence of work crews through next spring, 7 a.m.-7 p.m. Monday-Friday. Info: 941306-4660, info@amiprojects.io, amiprojects.io.
Bradenton Beach street, beach access repairs: Through Oct. 31, Bradenton Beach is making hurricane-related improvements and repairs. Info: BBPD’s Facebook page.
75th Street West at Manatee Avenue West : Manatee County is working on its 75th Street West Improvements Project from 19th Avenue West to Second Avenue West, including at the Manatee Avenue intersection. Motorists can expect delays. Info: mymanatee.org/75th.
— Lisa Neff
For professional real estate needs, call a TRUE
NATIVE, born and raised on AMI, selling the “Island Dream” for over 25 years, right here with her family.
ITEMS FOR SALE
OFFICE CHAIRS: BLACK. Two, like-new, $35 each. 941-920-2494.
ANTIQUE PARTNER DESK: All wood, $500. Inquire at 941-778-7978.
FREEBIE ITEMS FOR SALE
Individuals may place one free ad with up to three items, each priced $100 or less, 15 words or less. FREE, one week, must be submitted online. Email classifieds@islander.org (limited time offer).
TRANSPORTATION
GOLF CART RENTALS: Fun for residents and tourists! 941-213-5730. www.annamariacartrentals.com
BOATS & BOATING
HAVe A BOAt and wanna catch more fish, better bait or learn the water? 50-year local fisherman, your boat, my knowledge. Captain Chris, 941-896-2915.
SUNCOAST BOTTOM PAINTING: Professional bottom painting. Mobile. Call 941-7049382.
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.
21-FOOT CUDDY cabin: Great for fishing or pleasure. 225 Evinrude. $10,000, with trailer. 941-356-1456.
HELP WANTED
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
TECH HELP, TUTORING, custom projects: Tutoring (K-6) starts at $12/hour. Tech and projects vary by complexity. Serving Anna Maria Island. dominic.cusimano@gmail. com.
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.
SERVICES
IS YOUR HOME or office in need of some cleaning? Well, I’m your girl! Local, reliable, professional! Please, give me a call or text, 941-773 -0461.
CLEANING: VACATION, CONSTRUCTION, residential, commercial and windows. Licensed and insured. 941-756-4570.
PRESSURE WASHING, PAVER sealing, driveway, roof, fence, pool area. Also, window cleaning. Licensed and insured. 941-5653931.
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.
API’S DRYWALL REPAIR: I look forward to servicing your drywall repair needs. Call 941524-8067 to schedule an appointment.
PC OR te CH 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.
OUR SERVICES: CLEANING, home repairs, tile, concrete, remodeling, decks, steps, flooring, water drainage solutions, rental 24-hour services. Hurricane shutters and pre-storm service. New, low-cost generator and insulation (starts and runs on propane when power off). No permits needed. Islander, over 40 years here! Call 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
SERVICES Continued
LOOK NO MORE! Residential, vacation rental and commercial cleaning. Give us a call, 941-250-8548.
GO t 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 SUPPORT: 26-plus years’ experience. Tammy Roberts, 941-580-4440.
ACHAUFF e R4U FOR t RANSPORtAt ION anywhere in Florida. Properly insured and over 40 years in Bradenton. Dennis, 941812-5930.
ONECALL CLEANUP. Junk removal, water damage, and more. Fast, reliable service. Call, 941-544-1260.
HOM e WAt CH e R: WH e N you can’t be at home, I’ll watch your home and send video of my inspection. I’m a State Certified Residential Appraiser with background check. 317-997-4056.
AFFORDABLE PRESSURE WASHING and small job painting. 941-356-1456.
AMI AIRPORt 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.
HOUS e -SI tt ING ON Anna Maria Island. Responsible retired man available to care for your home and pets. I’ll provide peace of mind while you’re away. excellent references. Call or text, 570-439-2323.
LOCAL ISLAND PET sitter: Take care of your pet(s) including walks and playtime. 24/7. Call Dave, 513-967-0009.
BUSINESS-TO-BUSINESS JD’s Window Cleaning looking for storefront jobs in Holmes Beach. I make dirty windows sparkling clean. 941-920-3840.
SERVICES Continued
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.
LAWN & GARDEN
CONNIE’S LANDSCAPING INC. Residential and commercial. Full-service lawn maintenance, landscaping, cleanups, hauling and more! Insured. 941-713-1965.
COLLINS LANDSCAPE LIGHTING: Outdoor lighting, landscaping, irrigation services and maintenance. 941-279-9947. MJC24373@ gmail.com
SHeLL DeLIVeReD AND spread. Hauling all kinds of gravel, mulch, topsoil with free estimates. Call Larry at 941-795-7775, or “shell phone” 941-720-0770.
HOME IMPROVEMENT
VAN-GO PAINTING residential/commercial, interior/exterior, pressure cleaning, wallpaper. Island references. Bill, 941-795-5100. www. vangopainting.net.
GRIFFIN’S HOM e IMPROV e M e N t S 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 Ashdown Flooring, 941-726-3077.
DONALD P e RKINS PAIN t ING LLC. Interior/exterior/pressure washing. Island references. dperkinspaint@hotmail.com. 941705-7096.
GORILLA DRYWALL R e PAIR LLC. Let’s solve your drywall problems together. Give us a call at 941-286-0607.
tetI tILe: 40 years’ experience in Delaware, now on AMI and surrounds. t ile, marble, murals. Free estimates. Call John teti, 302983-5774.
TRUE TONE PAINTING: Painting, power washing, epoxy floors. 941-224-4020. 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.
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. co m Special rates are available. 941-8071405.
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.
AVAILABL e NOW! ANNUAL 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 R e N tALS AVAILABL e : Bradenton Beach, 2BR/1BA furnished cottage, $1,800/month, 2BR/2BA furnished home, $2,400/month. Off Island: Perico Isle, 3BR/2BA unfurnished pool home, $3,500/ month. Hidden Lake, 3BR/2BA furnished condo, $3,100/month. All require application, first, last and security. Wagner Realty, 941-778-2246.
SNOW BIRD SPECIAL: Discount for multiple months. 2BR/2BA, second floor condo in Holmes Beach. Pool, tennis/pickleball, inunit laundry, WiFi, screened lanai, covered parking. Available 2025/26 season beginning December 2025. Beautiful, bayside seating area. Pool/beach toys, bikes included. Call Jack, 312-835-2323 for more information/ photos.
WAteRFRONt 2BR/2BA FIRSt floor condo available monthly, December through April. One block from Manatee Beach. two pools, pickleball and tennis, walk to shopping. Call Kathy, 973-219-0335.
K e Y ROYAL e HOM e : Beautifully landscaped annual rental. Unfurnished. Fresh interior and exterior with all new appliances. 3BR/2BA, two-car garage. Large pool with heater and chiller. Boat dock and lift on a large canal. $10,000/month. 941-7131586.
2BR/1BA ANNUAL: 50 yards from beach. Newly renovated, new appliances. Pool. First, last, deposit. 941-726-6597.
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.
REAL ESTATE
WINNI e MCHAL e , R e ALt OR, 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.”
2BR/2BA CONDO IN Mt. Vernon for sale. Fully furnished, on lake with view of Sarasota Bay. Clubhouse, pool, workout room, and hot tub. Minutes to beaches and shopping. Asking $370,000. Call Sharon, 941-7305645.
I SLAND e R ARCHIV e. UofF Florida digital newspaper collection at ufdc.ufl.edu.
ANNA
Anna Maria Island listings!
Andrew & Brooke Doucett
Betsy Hagan
Joe McCall
Chelsea Oelker
Kathy Harman
Dee Munn
Scott Toland
George Myers
Suzy Korinek
Amy Ward
Hannah Hillyard