The Islander Newspaper E-Edition: Wednesday, Feb. 26, 2025

Bradenton Beach addresses building dept., FEMA issues

By Robert Anderson Islander Reporter

A Feb. 20 Bradenton Beach commission meeting started off with a bang as police Chief John Cosby addressed commissioners with a nearly full gallery in chambers.

“As you are aware, Mr. Cushing has made accusations against city employees,” the chief said, referring to ousted building official Darin Cushing.

Cushing

Cushing was suspended by the city and terminated by his employer, which is a contractor with the city. The city maintains the move was over problems with permitting following hurricanes Helene and Milton in 2024 but Cushing says he was pushed out after city officials pressured him to move permits on behalf of local developer Shawn Kaleta.

Cushing, in a Feb. 19 interview, said, “And when I didn’t just approve them outright, I started getting questioned — by the mayor, by the attorney. ‘Hey, are you going to get these permits going for Kaleta? We need to get this going, we need to start building our tax base.’”

Cosby, at the Feb. 20 commission meeting, addressed Cushing’s claims that city officials pressured him to approve major developments: “This is false. The building department was not accepting plans or permits of that caliber at the time. I can bring in the clerks to confirm this. There was nothing to be pressured about because there were no plans submitted.”

“The only permits being processed were for electrical, air conditioning and similar repairs. Some air conditioning units were mistakenly approved without proper elevation, which has now been corrected per state law.”

Cosby said the focus for permitting after the storms was on electrical and HVAC permits, with floodplain regula-

Police Chief John Cosby addresses Bradenton Beach commissioners during a Feb. 20 meeting at city hall.

tions requiring air conditioning units to be elevated. He said Cushing failed to enforce the requirement.

Cosby also addressed issues with FEMA, which flagged the city Jan. 23 for lacking flood damage assessments and substantial damage management plans.

… and reaches consensus on home demos

By Robert Anderson Islander Reporter

Bradenton Beach officials want to see demolition of 16 structures compromised by 2024 hurricanes.

Police Chief John Cosby, who oversees the city emergency management team, told commissioners Feb. 20 that on Feb. 10 he sent letters to property owners regarding the need for demolition.

If local officials determine a residential structure has been substantially damaged — the cost to repair the home is equal to or greater than 50% of its structural value before a disaster — the owner generally has three options to bring the structure into compliance,

according to the FEMA website. The options are:

• Elevate the building to a height determined by local officials;

• Relocate the structure outside the floodplain;

• Demolish the structure.

Cosby said seven owners agreed to remove their buildings.

The chief said if owners do not remove their structures, the city could take code enforcement action and, a case could be brought before a special master. If further action is needed, the city could take the case to court. Cosby said the city could place a lien on the property to recover its costs.

Another option would be to go

through FEMA by submitting a 16-page application that would require statements from the health department, utility cut-off certificates, right of entry forms, insurance vouchers and more. If approved, Bradenton Beach would have the right to perform the demo.

Cosby said the FEMA-assisted removal process would require the city to cover 12.5% of the cost. FEMA would cover 75% and 12.5% would be covered by the state.

“The average cost to take one of these (homes) out is between $25,000$30,000,” Cosby said.

Commissioners expressed concern about a possible financial burden on taxpayers and leaned toward the code enforcement process.

“I think we should go the code route and do the normal legal process,” Commissioner Deborah Scaccianoce said. “I think more people would respond to that anyway.”

“We want to give people time,” Mayor John Chappie said. “I mean they are dealing with devastation. It’s hard.”

The commissioners opted to pursue removal of the buildings through the code enforcement department.

“I checked with the planning department. Wendy (Chabot), our CRS coordinator, had drafts of these plans sitting on her desk for two years,” Cosby said. “Neither Mr. Cushing nor the previous building official had approved them.”

Cushing was hired Jan. 18, 2024, to succeed Steve Gilbert. Both men worked for SAFEbuilt, which contracts with cities to provide services.

Regarding his disaster-related work, Cushing said he performed his duties, including asking for help after the storms.

“They didn’t say any of this stuff about my performance until after I was gone,” he said.

And, Cushing said, he was pushed to put through incomplete permits and to mark homes for demolition that could be saved.

He said after being threatened with replacement during a city meeting, he defended himself on social media.

Then, Cushing said, he was summoned to a meeting with the mayor and city attorney and suspended.

The city hired a new building official earlier in February.

The city also is facing a review by FEMA.

Holmes Beach looks to recent past to fill commission vacancy

Following the Feb. 11 resignation of longtime Holmes Beach Commissioner Pat Morton, the remaining commissioners discussed their duty to appoint someone to fill his seat.

They also discussed appointing Steve Oelfke, the next highest votegetter in the November 2024 election.

Dan Diggins, fi rst elected in 2022, held onto his seat on the commission in the Nov. 5, 2024, election, edging out Oelfke, 272 to 234 votes.

Mayor Judy Titsworth told The Islander Feb. 21, “The commission seemed comfortable with this, which leads me to believe Oelfke will be appointed.”

The person appointed will fill the term until the next election in November, according to the charter.

The agenda for the Feb. 25 city meeting, after press time for The Islander, includes a swearing-in ceremony.

Best News on Anna Maria Island Since 1992

Derek Williams, owner of the Drift-In AMI, speaks to city commissioners regarding permitting for renovations at his Bridge Street business during a Feb. 20 commission meeting. Islander

Photos: Robert Anderson

Oelfke

A home at 1201 Gulf Drive S., Bradenton Beach, was toppled Oct. 9 by high winds during Hurricane Milton.

Islander Photo:

Courtesy Bradenton Beach

City news for the week ending Feb. 23 from HB, AM

Anna Maria Mayor Mark Short told The Islander in a Feb. 20 email that it was somewhat of “a slow week here this past week.”

He said the focus was on cleaning up loose ends and formalizing near-term projects, including:

• A shade sail at the City Pier Park playground should be done in the first week in March.

• Phase 1A of the Pine Avenue paver sidewalk project was complete except for two areas that were deferred pending Florida Department of Transportation approval for minor changes. “Otherwise, it looks great and we are receiving a lot of compliments,” the mayor said.

• FPL was in the city Feb. 20 “finally repairing a number of streetlights that have been out since the hurricanes,” he added, referring to the storms in 2024.

Short said the next commission meeting will be Feb. 27, with an agenda that includes extensions of emergency orders due to the hurricanes, a resolution to finalize a fee schedule for special events and discussion regarding a Manatee County proposal to build a pier to accommodate the Gulf Islands Ferry.

In Holmes Beach, Mayor Judy Titsworth told The Islander in emails Feb. 21, “It has been a busy week.”

She noted a farewell party for former Commissioner Pat Morton, who resigned his seat Feb. 11, will be 4:30-5:30 p.m. Wednesday, Feb. 26, at the Doctor’s Office Garden.

“Pat Morton is a true statesman. He gave his time to a community he dearly loved. He had no personal agendas and was in it for no other reason than to preserve the quality of life for our residents. He will be surely missed and I thank him from the bottom of my heart for his years of service to this community. I wish him well and am so happy that he is able to return to his roots in West Virginia to be with his family. We will remain friend for years to come,” Titsworth wrote.

She said she expects the commission to appoint Steve Oelfke, the next highest votegetter after Diggins in the November 2024 election, at a Feb. 25 meeting.

Titsworth also said, “We had a great week in all departments. We have qualified for a CRS rating of 5

County to propose new Anna Maria pier

A month after Manatee County’s Gulf Islands Ferry lost its temporary dock in Anna Maria, concepts of a new pier surfaced.

City commissioners were set to discuss at a Feb. 27 meeting a county proposal to build a new pier to accommodate a larger ferry, according to Mayor Mark Short.

The ferry docked at the Anna Maria City Pier before the structure’s walkway was destroyed by Hurricane Milton. Following the storm, the ferry docked at a pair of temporary barges provided by the state to aid in hurricane recovery.

The county planned to keep the barges until the city pier was rebuilt but a $500,000 monthly rental cost

resulted in the barges’ removal in January.

The ferry service currently consists of two vessels that operate between downtown Bradenton and Bradenton Beach.

Last year, the county voted to spend $3 million in tourism taxes to build a third, larger vessel.

However, even before Milton damaged the Anna Maria pier, its dock would not accommodate the larger vessel — so the county proposed the new pier between the city pier and the Lake Lavista inlet to the north.

Short told The Islander Feb. 23 that the proposal would require a workshop and commission approval.

The commission will meet at 1 p.m. Thursday, Feb. 27, at city hall. — Ryan Paice

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and, as long as this gets blessed by FEMA, our residents should see an additional discount on their flood insurance. I thank the building department and public works for their hard work in meeting the criteria to get where we are.

“We also were awarded an HMGP grant for a new generator for city hall. I thank (city engineer) Sage (Kamiya) for pursuing this opportunity.”

Meanwhile, the mayor said, the city has a lot on the next agenda for stormwater maintenance and improvements, as well as addressing safety concerns on Key Royale Drive.

Also, she said, code compliance is continuing to verify homeowners are using licensed contractors and have the appropriate permits.

— bonner Joy

Titsworth

Holmes beach Commissioner Pat Morton tosses beads from the city police boat in 2005 as it is trailered in the July 4 Anna Maria Island Privateers parade. Islander File Photo

Red tide found in AMI waters, dead fish on beaches

Anna Maria Island beachgoers reported finding dead fish — lots of dead fish — the week ending Feb. 23, especially after high tides.

“Lots of dead fish Sunday and Monday, not this morning at 77th” in Holmes Beach, Anne-Marie Lessard informed The Islander via Facebook Feb. 18.

Beachgoer Sharn Quinn Carkner observed the same near 50th Street in Holmes Beach.

Kathy Porter Shapell shared several photos showing dead fi sh Feb. 16 near Willow Avenue in Anna Maria while Kim McCormick, via Facebook, said she walked the island Feb. 17 from Coquina Beach in Bradenton Beach to past Bean Point in Anna Maria and found “there were dead fish the entire way, from the southern tip to the northern tip.”

“There were no beaches where there were none,” she said.

The reports of the dead fish seemed to diminish as the week continued and a cold front arrived.

The Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission has been reporting red tide in the area for weeks and testing for Manatee County continued through the week to show “background to low concentrations” of the red tide organism, Karenia brevis K. brevis, according to the state, was in 50 samples on Florida’s Gulf coast the week ending Feb. 23.

In addition to being found in Manatee, K. brevis was observed at background to very low concentrations in Pinellas County, very low concentrations in Hillsborough County, background to medium concentrations in Sarasota County, background to medium concentrations in Charlotte County, background to high concentrations in Lee County, very low to medium concentrations in Collier County and very low concentrations offshore of Monroe County.

Fish kills suspected to be related to red tide were reported from Manatee, Sarasota, Charlotte, Lee, Collier and Monroe.

Respiratory irritation was reported in Sarasota, Lee, Collier and Monroe counties, according to the FWC.

However, beachgoers also reported respiratory irritation on AMI.

“My son went to Beach Avenue yesterday and immediately came back home because he said red tide was bad and there were so many dead fish on the beach,” said Jenny Kiser Oelfke via Facebook.

Beachgoers on Longboat Key also reported respiratory irritation and dead fish.

For more information, go to myfwc.com/research/ redtide/statewide/.

— Lisa Neff

Q&A The Islander poll

My last spring break vacation was …

A. Last spring.

B. A few years ago.

C. Too long ago to remember.

D. Work hardest during spring breaks. To answer and see results, go to islander.org.

Save the date

Reception set for Pat Morton

The Doctor’s Office Garden will host a reception for former Holmes Beach Commissioner Pat Morton, who resigned his seat earlier in February.

The reception, 5312 Holmes Blvd., #B, Holmes Beach, will be 4:30-5:30 p.m. Wednesday, Feb. 26, according to a notice from the city. The notice read, “The City is extending an open invitation to all residents for a special farewell reception. A plaque presentation will be held followed by an informal gathering with refreshments.”

For more info, call city hall at 941-708-5800.

Roadwatch

by Lisa Neff

Eyes on the road

Cortez Bridge utility relocation project: State Road 684/Cortez Road. Manatee County is relocating a water main and force main crossing at the Cortez Bridge. Through the spring, travelers can expect the closure of 127th Street West in Cortez between Cortez Road West and 126th Street West. For more info, contact Tina Allen, community outreach representative, at 941-306-4660 or info@amiprojects.io. For area info, go to swflroads.com.

tide was starting to come in as we neared bean Point. So I imagine that may have washed a number of them out into the Gulf.

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▼ Live Maine Lobster Thursdays, plus Happy Hour all nite in the lounge.

Kathy Porter Shapell took this photograph of dead fish Feb. 16 near Willow Avenue in Anna Maria. Islander Photo: Courtesy via Facebook

Kim McCormick walked the beach Feb. 17 and found many dead fish. She wrote on Facebook: “The

Mayors respond to state study’s ‘streamline’ suggestion

by Ryan Paice Islander Reporter

While Anna Maria Island’s three cities appear safe from state-led consolidation, consolidation of municipal services to save taxpayer money is still on the table.

Holmes Beach Mayor Judy Titsworth wrote a Feb. 12 letter to state Sen. Jim Boyd and Rep. Will Robinson Jr., both R-Bradenton, responding to their request for island mayors to address synergy and cost savings.

The legislators called for a Florida Office of Program Policy Analysis and Government Accountability in 2023 to study the potential consolidation/dissolution of the island municipalities.

OPPAGA completed the study last year. Boyd and Robinson included the report in a Jan. 9 letter to the island mayors.

Their letter acknowledged that “merging or eliminating cities could negatively impact the unique and special character of the island and could have a detrimental impact on issues like building height.”

However, the report also concluded that “stream-

lining” municipal services could save money.

Boyd and Robinson asked the mayors to provide ideas for how services could be streamlined by Feb. 13.

gestions.

Anna Maria Mayor Mark Short provided a response Feb. 7 and discussed plans for an interlocal agreement for human resources and information technology support from Manatee County.

Titsworth’s response features multiple outlines for the consolidation of island services, such as:

• A proposed interlocal agreement wherein the city would provide building inspection services to Bradenton Beach;

• A sample interlocal agreement for the city to provide street-sweeping services to Anna Maria;

• An interdepartmental memorandum of police services and cost estimates for those services to Anna Maria, as well as a sample interlocal agreement;

• An islandwide development services department program analysis “in the event all parties wish to have the city of Holmes Beach provide building department services islandwide.”

Some outlines are more food for thought than sug-

Anna Maria poised to change special event fees

by Ryan Paice Islander Reporter

Anna Maria soon may have a clearer rubric for special event permit fees.

But opinions are mixed about the costs.

A proposed fee schedule with five variable price and size categories for special events was discussed at a Feb. 13 city commission meeting.

The permit fees include:

• $200 per day for special events with up to 40 daily attendees. Permits must be filed 30 days prior to event.

• $300 per day for events with 41-100 daily attendees. Permits must be filed 60 days prior to event.

• $750 per day for events with 101-500 daily attendees. Permits must be filed 90 days prior to event.

• $1,000 per day for events with 501-1,000 daily attendees or involving 15-25 vendors per day. Permits must be filed 90 days prior to event.

• $1,500 per day for events with more than 1,000 daily attendees or at least 25 vendors. Permits must be filed 90 days prior to event.

Events “sponsored by and solely for the benefit of non-for-profit organizations” could qualify for a

ART WORKSHOP: Beginner Watercolor Class, 1-3p Sunday, March 2. Call or stop by for details!

waiver of permit fees subject to commission approval, according to the proposed fee schedule.

The city currently charges $200-$5,000 for special event permit fees, which are determined by the mayor based on event plans, services required and local impact.

The current schedule was criticized for creating uncertainty for event planners due to the range in cost. So the city has been working in recent months to implement a clearer schedule.

Danielle Lynch, owner of Blue Ribbon Events, which hosts events in Florida and Michigan, told The Islander Feb. 19 that the city’s proposed fees would make hosting events there unviable for her business.

“I will not be doing events in the city of Anna Maria if their permit fees are approved as proposed at the present moment,” Lynch said.

While the maximum potential permit fee for a special event would be lowered from $5,000 to $1,500, Lynch said the proposed fees dwarf those of other municipalities where she hosts events, including the other two island cities.

The city of Bradenton Beach charges $75 for staff review and approval of special events, $200 for events with crowds larger than 200 people and $400 for expedited applications.

Holmes Beach charges a $75 application fee for temporary use permits, $250 per day to use city field and a $500 deposit per event at city field.

Lynch also said it is unfair for the city to only allow nonprofits to seek fee waivers.

For example, an interlocal agreement was not included with the islandwide analysis because, as Titsworth wrote, it was “highly recommended” for each city to provide their own on-site building departments, flood plain managers and CRS coordinators.

“It was found that the fees charged by each department are consistent with other building departments in the region and there are no efficiencies or cost savings to combine this effort,” she wrote.

Bradenton Beach Mayor John Chappie told The Islander Feb. 21 that he believed his Dec. 7, 2023, letter to OPPAGA was sufficient, thus a new response was not created in reaction to Boyd and Robinson’s latest — and nonmandatory — request.

Chappie’s letter was sent to OPPAGA near the beginning of its consolidation study and reinforces the need to maintain the three island municipalities and their law enforcement arms.

“We didn’t want to be redundant. There was really no need to submit anything else,” Chappie said. “We’re extremely open to even stronger ties and cooperation with the other cities.”

“I’m not understanding why they’re not paying anything over and over again,” she said.

Chris Culhane, executive director of the Center of Anna Maria Island, a nonprofit, told The Islander Feb. 20 that he understands the city’s perspective on recouping administrative, service and cleanup costs for events through permitting fees.

He also said the center’s special events programming would not be impacted by the city’s proposed fee changes.

As for nonprofit-sponsored events qualifying for waivers of permit fees, Culhane said the city is doing the “right thing” by giving nonprofits a “reprieve” from the fees.

On the other hand, he said waivers of fees for events hosted/sponsored by for-profit organizations did not make sense.

“It’s like saying, ‘Let me rent this building but I don’t want to pay rent.’ You’re not going to rent a building to a for-profit business so they can make more money,” Culhane said. “You can’t just go and ask for free rent.”

Commissioners will discuss a resolution to implement the new special event permit fees at 1 p.m. Thursday, Feb. 27, at city hall, 10005 Gulf Drive.

Directions to attend the meeting via Zoom can be found on the city’s website, cityofannamaria.com.

A crowd fills Pine Avenue at a 2021 bayfest event.

Islander File Photo

Island happenings

AME sees STEM success

In mid-February, Anna Maria Elementary students participated in the School District of Manatee County STEM Fair at Manatee Technical College in Bradenton.

AME students who submitted winning projects include: first place, Henry Leibfried, fourth-grade, physical science; second place, Christopher Rubino, fourth-grade, life science, and Sawyer Leibfried, fifth-grade, life science; third place, Livingston Griffith, fourth-grade, life science, Miles Moss, fourth-grade, engineering, and Luke Plummer, fourth-grade, physical science.

Also, AME won the Distinguished Excellence in Science Award during the fair, according to AME teacher Pidge Barreda.

“Anna Maria Island,” a pictorial history book of the island by bonner Joy is available at Island Mail & Print, 3230 e. bay Drive, Holmes beach. Joy is publisher of The Islander newspaper. She launched the newspaper in 1992. She first came to the island in 1972.

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Garden club fashion show set

Presidents Day cleanup

Volunteers gather for a photo during a beach cleanup that began near 52nd Street in Holmes beach Feb. 17, which was the Presidents Day holiday. The crew included ben Vanderbaan of Waste Pro, left, Jennifer Hoffman of Keep Manatee beautiful and Jayson Clayton, Cristin Carter and Nate brown of the City of Holmes beach. Islander Photo: Courtesy James “JT” Thomas/ City of Holmes beach

Some of the AMe award-winning students and teacher Pidge barreda gather for a photo after claiming wins at the School District of Manatee County’s STeM Fair earlier in February. Islander Courtesy Photo

Yes, we’re back! BEST MARKET ON AMI

The Anna Maria Island Garden Club will hold its annual fashion show and luncheon at 11:30 a.m. Wednesday, Feb. 26, at the Center of Anna Maria Island, 407 Magnolia Ave., Anna Maria.

A notice read, “We have over 40 models and the stores will have pop-up shops for attendees to buy fashions. All proceeds will go to the vendors as the club wants to help out the business affected by the storms.”

Also, the club will sell raffle tickets to raise money for beautification and restoration projects.

Tickets, selling for $65, are at https://amigardenclubfashionshow.rsvpify.com

For more, call chair Pat Olesen at 636-373-4331.

Palma Sola plant sale planned

The Palma Sola Botanical Park plans to hold its Spring Plants & More Sale 10 a.m.-3 p.m. Sunday, March 2.

The park is at 9800 17th Ave. NW, Bradenton. For more, call the park at 941-761-2866.

Annie Silver serving supper

Supper’s on at the Annie Silver Community Center. The center, 103 23rd St. N., Bradenton Beach, will host the dinner 5-7 p.m. Wednesday, Feb. 26.

The meal, served by Smoqehouse of Bradenton Beach, will include pulled pork or chicken, macaroni and cheese, potatoes, beans, rolls, dessert and drinks.

Organizers ask for a donation.

For more, call Cheryl Grossi at 401-525-0525.

Demolition derby

Long ago, many years back in the life of this newspaper, a reporter often quoted (and often had to rewrite) a famous comedic couple from the 1920s-50s.

“Well, here’s another nice mess you’ve gotten me into,” the preferred quote appeared often in proof copy, not so much in the newspaper.

Stan Laurel and Oliver Hardy were a comedy team whose official filmography consists of 106 films released between 1921 and 1951. They appeared together in 34 silent shorts, 45 sound shorts and 27 feature films.

They appeared too often in the reporter’s stories, but the quote was most often appropriate.

It was funny when Laurel accused Hardy of getting him into a mess in the movies, because the movies were about the funny messes they got themselves into.

Now Bradenton Beach is in a mess.

When Hurricanes Helene and Milton struck, we heard that 95% of the structures in the city were damaged. Note, I didn’t say damaged to the point they would require demolition. Just damaged.

The residents were prohibited from entering the city for some 10 days or so and then they had to walk across the bridge from Cortez to access their properties.

Gulf Drive, the main north-south access road running through the city, was buried in sand so deep that some officials thought the asphalt road was washed out and gone and would have to be rebuilt — but once the sand was removed, the road was there.

Older cottages and duplexes built back in the 1940s and ’50s weren’t so lucky. The floodwaters and the wind-driven sand were too much for the old homes — too much for the old construction methods.

Someone should have known the building department — overburdened with planning and permitting work before the storm — couldn’t hold up under the pressure after the storms.

People were getting “hangry” to get back in their homes and people, including those living in the Pines Trailer Park, were desperately trying to cope with their losses.

They were seeking ways out of the mess caused by the storms and exasperated by the inability of their city officials to come to their aid.

It appeared to some that developer money was beating them to the punch, getting work done faster, and that the city was facilitating the developers.

Meanwhile, money is driving the bus in BB.

It’s a rotten mess and, next thing you know, the lawyers will step up for their cut.

— bonner Joy, news@islander.org

Murphy

A rose

It was 1983.

Back then if you wanted to charge 20 bucks for chicken, the table had to have flowers.

The Bistro tables were small.

The flower on the table had to be tall and lean.

I needed long-stem roses in tall, thin glass vases.

I started with one bunch — 40 roses.

The roses started to lose petals on the fifth day. Their heads hung down on the sixth.

you gave me a rose.”

This got me the “dreaded eye-roll” from my wife.

If my daughter was present, I got the “deadly double” eye-roll.

I estimate that I gave away some 25,000 roses. All that rose-gifting robbed me of a romantic vehicle for amends.

If I got home late or forgot the groceries, the gift of a rose by way of apology loses impact when you have given thousands of them to other women.

Roses were absolutely out for birthdays and anniversaries.

▼ Publisher, editor bonner Joy, news@islander.org

editor Lisa Neff, lisa@islander.org

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Robert Anderson, robert@islander.org

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I was assailed by old wives’ tales advising best ways to keep roses looking fresh.

Trim the stems daily, add aspirin to the water, add 7UP.

I realized I had to get two bunches a week.

All others: news@islander.org

This meant that I always had two-dozen, secondstring roses, roses that still looked pretty good.

We couldn’t eat them. But we could give them away.

Every night for the next 38 years, I gave female patrons a rose as they left the Bistro.

It was a random act of kindness that gave joy to the giver and the recipient.

But giving away roses also had its treacherous moments.

One elderly gentleman wanted to punch my lights out for giving a rose to his wife.

There were the two curvaceous German women who interpreted the rose as an act of deep and profound love. They returned the next night and the next, convinced they were going to take me back to Germany, where we would all live happily together eating sausages in the cold.

When the men looked aggrieved, I gave them a rose, too.

“Here, when was the last time anyone gave you a goddamn rose.”

There were encounters in airports and grocery stores.

“Oh Sean, hello. It’s me, Mary. You remember me,

When we sold the Bistro two years ago, I was deeply saddened thinking of the great people that I would miss.

That grief was redoubled when I witnessed the utter and complete destruction of the Bistro delivered by Hurricane Helene.

I entered what had been my beautiful dining room a couple of days after the deluge.

The room that had created so many wonderful evenings looked like it had been bombed, then scoured with a giant scrub brush.

I stood on the beach and pondered what befalls sandcastles built too close to the Gulf and the futility of human effort.

I was reliving joyous times at the Bistro, proud of the meaningful lifetime memories we had created.

In my reverie, I almost missed one lone rose, standing defiantly atop a mound of sand in front of the wreckage.

It stood proudly, intact, still beautiful.

I brought it home to my wife. It was appropriate, after all, that from all those roses, from all those years, that she should get the most memorable rose, the survivor.

— Sean Murphy

Sean Murphy is proprietor of the Doctor’s Office and the Doctor’s Garden, a craft cocktail bar with fine dining in an intimate setting in Holmes beach.

Play ball

The Pittsburgh Pirates during a spring training game against the Royals in 1980 at McKechnie Field in bradenton. Islander Photos: Courtesy Manatee County Public Library Archives

The St. Louis Cardinals train in March 1923 at McKechnie Field in bradenton. The team played in bradenton 1923-24 and 1930-36.

10-20-30 years ago

From the Feb. 23, 1995, issue

• A standing-room-only crowd gathered at the Island Baptist Church in Holmes Beach for an Anna Maria Island Community Orchestra and Chorus concert with a romance theme.

• Jackie’s Beach Service of Bradenton applied to the city of Bradenton Beach for permission to rent lounges, umbrellas, sailboats and more from the shore at a waterfront resort.

From the Feb. 23, 2005, issue

• Bradenton Beach police arrested two adults on outstanding warrants for alleged fraud. The arrests occurred days after their family was left homeless by a fire at an apartment in the city, which is how their location came to law enforcement’s attention.

• The Sea Hagg in Cortez announced that it rescued for preservation the wheelhouse of the Deanna Belle fishing vessel and planted the item in front of the antiques and collectibles store on Cortez Road.

From the Feb. 25, 2015, issue

• Anna Maria officials gathered outside city hall to celebrate the groundbreaking for a cell tower they expected to carry AT&T and Verizon services.

• Protesters picketed along Manatee Avenue near the Anna Maria Island Bridge against a permit issued to developer Pat Neal to build four homes on Perico Island.

• Bradenton Beach Mayor William Shearon announced his bid for reelection even as he faced a recall effort.

— Lisa Neff

The Islander is archived online by the University of Florida library at ufdc.ufl.edu.

A baseball clinic takes place in March 1977 at Pirate City in bradenton as spring training season got underway. Spring training has returned to bradenton for most of March.

In 1977, the DeSoto Heritage Festival celebration included the capture of the Pittsburgh Pirates during an exhibition game at McKechnie Field in bradenton.

Compiled by Lisa Neff calendar@islander.org

ARTS & ENTERTAINMENT ON AMI

Wednesday, Feb. 26

11:30 a.m. — Anna Maria Island Garden Club Fashion Show and Luncheon, Center of Anna Maria Island, 407 Magnolia Ave., Anna Maria. Fee applies. Info: 636-373-4331.

Sunday, March 2

6 p.m. — The Kramers gospel concert, Harvey Church, 208 Church Ave., Bradenton Beach. Info: 610-420-5470.

ONGOING ON AMI

• Throughout March, Artists’ Guild of Anna Maria Island exhibits Stephanie Leaver’s photography work, Artists’ Guild Gallery, 5414 Marina Drive, Holmes Beach. Info: 941-778-6694.

OFF AMI

Friday, Feb. 28

6:30 p.m. — Night at the Nursery with Trevor Bystrom and Friends, Orban’s Nursery, 9601 Ninth Ave. NW, Bradenton. Fee applies. Info: 941-792-8717.

ONGOING OFF AMI

• 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.

• Through May 4, “American Farmer,” the Bishop Museum, 201 10th St. W., Bradenton. Fee applies. Info: 941-746-4131.

• Throughout March, Island Gallery and Studios’ “Florida Living” exhibit featuring Darryl Goldman’s art, 456 Old Main St., Bradenton. Info: 941-778-6648.

SAVE THE DATES

• March 7-8, Center of Anna Maria Island Murder Mystery evening, Anna Maria.

• March 8, Center of Anna Maria Island Wine Tasting, Anna Maria.

March 8-9, Anna Maria Island Art League’s Springfest Fine Arts and Crafts and Young at Art contest, Holmes Beach.

• March 13-30, Island Players’ “Death by Design,” Anna

At the galleries

“Reincarnation” by Stephanie Leaver, the featured artist in March at the Artists’ Guild Gallery, 5414 Marina Drive, Holmes beach. Leaver, a “purist photographer,” specializes in “macro and nature photography, capturing the authenticity of the world around her,” according to a news release. She’s also the vice president of the Artists’ Guild of Anna Maria Island. A reception with the artist will be 5-7:30 p.m. Friday, March 14. For more information, call 941778-6694.

• March 14, AGAMI Paint Arounds and City Center Night Markets, Holmes Beach.

• March 15, John and Mable Ringling Museum of Art’s “Conjuring the Spirit World: Art, Magic and Mediums,” Sarasota.

MARKETS & SALES

ONGOING ON AMI

• Most Wednesdays, Fridays and Sundays, 10 a.m.-2 p.m., Coquina Beach Market, South Coquina Beach, Bradenton Beach. Info: 041-840-0789.

• Tuesdays, 9 a.m.-2 p.m., Anna Maria Community Market, Center of Anna Maria Island, 407 Magnolia Ave., Anna Maria. Info: 941-778-1908.

Sunday, March 2

10 a.m.-3 p.m. — Palma Sola Botanical Park Plants and More Sale, 9800 17th Ave. NW, Bradenton. Info: 941-761-2866.

SAVE THE DATES

• March 8, Cortez Nautical Flea Market, Cortez. KIDS & FAMILY ON AMI

Friday, Feb. 28

10 a.m. — Forty Carrots/Partners in Play, Island Library, 5701

“Florida Living” by Darryl Goldman is the featured exhibit in March at the Island Gallery and Studios, 456 Old Main St., bradenton. About the theme, Goldman states, “Florida is a place of abundant natural beauty and a laid-back lifestyle. The state’s rich history and vibrant culture, with food, music and architecture heavily influenced by immigrants from Cuba, Spain and Italy, making it an artist’s paradise.” A reception will be 5-7 p.m. Friday, March 7. For more, call 941-778-6648.

Marina Drive, Holmes Beach. Info: 941-778-6341.

Saturday, March 1

10 a.m. — Read 2 Dogs, Island Library, 5701 Marina Drive, Holmes Beach. Info: 941-778-6341.

Tuesday, March 4

11:30 a.m. — Family Storytime, Island Library, 5701 Marina Drive, Holmes Beach. Info: 941-778-6341.

SAVE THE DATES

• March 16, St. Patrick’s Day Parade, Holmes Beach and Anna Maria.

CLUBS & COMMUNITY ON AMI

Wednesday, Feb. 26

4:30 p.m. — Reception and celebration for former Holmes Beach Commissioner Pat Morton, The Doctor’s Office Garden, 5312 Holmes Blvd. #B, Holmes Beach. Info: 941-708-5800. 5-7 p.m. — Community supper, Annie Silver Community Center, 1-3 23rd St. N., Bradenton Beach. Info: 401-525-0525.

Friday, Feb. 28

11:30 a.m. — Mahjong, Island Library, 5701 Marina Drive, Holmes Beach. Info: 941-778-6341.

Tuesday, March 4

11:30 a.m. — Mahjong, Island Library, 5701 Marina Drive, Holmes Beach. Info: 941-778-6341.

Tiki & Kitty’s

Tiki and Kitty are leading the way to their favorite shops and boutiques to find unique vintage accents and decor for your 2025 home.

T&K love Cat’s Meow, an 8,000 square-foot marketplace! Their vendors offer coastal, cottage, beach, antique, boho, midcentury modern and other home decor styles. They also offer vintage to fine jewelry and vintage albums.

You might want to lace up your skates, as this large, former skating rink has plenty to offer bargain hunters and anyone seeking antiques and unique decor. You don’t want to miss this collection.

We’ll definitely make a stop next door at Blue

Flamingo, home to hip and trendy upcycled and repurposed goods, furniture and decor, garden features, candles, jewelry and work by local artisans. They also offer Dixie Belle paints.

We promise, you will find treasures aplenty. Scavengers Marketplace has plenty of vendors to capture your wallet at the Palmetto store, 2100 U.S. 301. There’s always something new to entice you among the vendors’ eclectic collections.

FYI: Scavengers also carries Fusion Paints. The Vintage Vine Market is a favorite for Tiki and Kitty, who love the fine vintage wares and items with a whimsical twist at this store in historic Old Manatee along the newest section of the Bradenton Riverwalk. The location in the 1910 building oozes charm. And they take select consignments by appointment.

And don’t forget, tell people you meet along the way, “The Islander sent me.”

Maria.

ONGOING ON AMI

• Thursdays, 6 p.m., Annie Silver Community Center Bingo night, 103 23rd St. N., Bradenton Beach. Info: 941-224-1973.

• Saturdays, 8:30 a.m., Anna Maria Island Kiwanis Club, Bradenton Beach City Hall, 107 Gulf Drive N. Info: 941-778-1383.

SAVE THE DATES

• March 14, Center of Anna Maria Island bingo night, Anna Maria.

• March 28, Cortez Coffee Social, Cortez. LESSONS & LEARNING ON AMI

Wednesday, Feb. 26

11 a.m. — Making Sense of Medicare and Medicare Enrollment, Island Library, 5701 Marina Drive, Holmes Beach. Info: 941778-6341.

Thursday, Feb. 27

2 p.m. — Friends of the Island Library Lecture and Travel Series, Island Library, 5701 Marina Drive, Holmes Beach. Info: 941778-6341.

Saturday, March 1

10 a.m.-1 p.m. — Ask A Master Gardener, Island Library, 5701 Marina Drive, Holmes Beach. Info: 941-778-6341.

OUTDOORS & NATURE

ONGOING OFF AMI

• Fourth Thursdays through April, 6 p.m., Manatee County Natural Resources’ Nature Nights at the Nest, Robinson Preserve, 840 99th St. NW, Bradenton. Info: 941-748-4501.

• Saturdays, 9 a.m., Manatee County Natural Resources’ Saturday Mornings at the Nest, Robinson Preserve, 840 99th St. NW, Bradenton. Info: 941-748-4501.

CALENDAR NOTES

KEEP THE DATES

• Throughout March, Women’s History Month.

• March 4, Fat Tuesday.

• March 5, Ash Wednesday.

Springfest set for March 8-9 in Holmes Beach

The Anna Maria Island Art League and Blue Ribbon Events will stage the 37th annual Springfest juried art show March 8-9.

The festival will be 10 a.m.-5 p.m. Saturday, March 8, and 10 a.m.-4 p.m. Sunday, March 9, on 59th Street in Holmes Beach north of city hall.

A news release, citing disruption and damages following 2024 hurricanes, said, “Both organizations agreed that art is especially essential during challenging times. Art brings hope, joy and an outlet for expressing various emotions, feelings and thoughts to so many. This resulted in a fruitful collaboration where they will work together in their respective areas of expertise for Springfest.”

The event will feature a juried fine arts and crafts show, as well as the Young at Art exhibition featuring work by K-12 students in Manatee County, including Anna Maria Elementary kids.

Prior to Springfest, select island spots will feature Young at Art work, including AMI Outfitters, AMI

Full breakfast in fellowship hall

Susan and David Cheshire are assigned the applesauce station at a pancake breakfast at Roser Church, 512 Pine Ave., Anna Maria. A $10 meal includes pancakes, sausage, applesauce, biscuits and gravy, drinks. The church next will hold a breakfast 8-11 a.m. Saturday, March 1. There is no charge for children under the age of 5. The Guild Thrift Shop also will be open. For more, call 941-778-0414.

Beach & Dog Supply and Olive Oil Outpost on Pine Avenue in Anna Maria and Tortuga Inn Beach Resort on Gulf Drive in Bradenton Beach.

In Holmes Beach, artwork will be displayed at the Island Library, Pizzano’s Pizza, Domino’s Pizza, Gypsea Tides Beach Boutique, Island Fresh Market AMI and Scott’s Deli on Marina Drive; Cheesecake Cutie and Cafe, Island Mail and Print, Kiwi Style Fish and Chips and Paradise Cafe on East Bay Drive; Vinny’s Italian Kitchen, Fifty Three Fifty and Hurricane Hank’s on Gulf Drive; and LaPensee Plumbing on Manatee.

For more information, call 231-350-8277.

Gathering Obituaries

By Lisa Neff

Gospel group at Harvey

The Kramers gospel group will perform Sunday, March 2, at Harvey Memorial Community Church, 208 Church Ave., Bradenton Beach, during a 9:15 a.m. service and a 6 p.m. concert.

Free-will offerings will be accepted.

For more information about the performance, call the church at 941-779-1912.

For more information about the musical group, go to thekramersmusic.com.

GriefShare meets at Roser

Roser Memorial Community Church offers GriefShare: Hope and Healing, a program to help people through loss, at 1 p.m. Wednesdays through May 21.

A notice on the church website, roserchurch.com, said, “You don’t have to go through the grieving process alone. Our group is led by caring people who have experienced grief and want to help you through the difficult days ahead.”

A workbook for the 13-week program costs $20. Roser is at 512 Pine Ave., Anna Maria.

For more information about the program, call the church at 941-778-0414.

‘Star of the Sea’ sets sale day

The Royal Rummage Sale XVII will be FridaySaturday Feb. 28-March 1 at St. Mary, Star of the Sea. The church is at 4280 Gulf of Mexico Drive, Longboat Key.

An early-bird sale will be 11 a.m.-2 p.m. Feb. 28. The admission is $5.

The free-admission sale is 9 a.m.-noon March 1.

A notice said the sale, presented by the women’s guild, is “always LBK’s biggest and best.”

For more information, call the church at 941-3831255.

Margaret Gloria Art

Margaret Gloria Art, 98, of Holmes Beach, died Feb. 15.

Margaret Gloria Wold was born Oct. 9, 1926, in Los Angeles to Elisabeth Schemkes, an au pair, and Paul Wold, a Norwegian merchant marine who “jumped ship.”

She grew up on a small farm in Weston, Connecticut, with her younger siblings, Elenore and William. The family also lived in Oslo, Norway, her father’s native country, 1934-39.

She married Richard Art in 1946. They built a house in Stratford, Connecticut, then moved to New Jersey with their four boys in 1963. They always had a boat and enjoyed fishing and cruising trips.

They retired to Holmes Beach around 1979, staying active with volunteer work in the community. Margaret was a founder of the Roser Church Thrift Store in 1997 and was honored in 2022 for her 25 years of service to the church.

Strong, independent, frugal, thoughtful, loving and creative, she was always busy doing something productive, often in service to others. She enjoyed growing fruits and vegetables, orchids and more. She was a talented florist and artist, hand-painting heirloom china and creating jewelry.

A celebration of life will be at Roser Church in Anna Maria at 2 p.m. March 25.

She is survived by her sons, William and wife Norah, Donald and wife Ann Whitman, and James and wife Robin, and their families, including seven grandchildren, two great-grandchildren, and numerous nieces and nephews.

Elizabeth Davies

Elizabeth Davies, 68, of Holmes Beach, died Feb. 14.

Known by her family as “Beth” and by her friends as “Liz,” she lived life to the fullest.

She was an art teacher for 30 years, a photographer and, in retirement, a pet-sitter, bringing dogs into her home.

She loved to travel, entertain and shop. She was great at making and keeping friends. She always said, “Life is short, so you’ve got to dance (and buy the shoes).” And dance she did.

Beth was loved by many and will be missed. Ms. Davies is survived by her daughter, Mollie Swanton; sisters Alison Parks and Kecia Kerr; brother John; step-mother Nancy, many cousins; friends and her dog Lola.

Charles Allen ‘Guppie’ Terrell

Charles Allen “Guppie” Terrell, 83, a Manatee County resident for 37 years, died Feb. 15.

He was born Oct. 3, 1941, in Indianapolis to Charles and Helen Catt Terrell. He grew up in Lakeland and went to Lakeland Senior High, where he met his wife, Maggie, in 1957 in 10th-grade English.

He was a veteran, having served in the U.S. Navy as a sonar technician on the U.S. Randolph. He worked for AZ Products in Lakeland. He moved to Holmes Beach 1988-98, where he started Terrell Lawn Service in 1992. He lived his remaining years in Bradenton.

A memorial service with Navy Honors will be at 11 a.m. Saturday, March 1, at Griffith Cline Funeral and Cremation Services, 720 Manatee Ave. W., Bradenton.

He is survived by his wife, Maggie of 61 years; daughter Michele and husband Larry Kline; sons Craig and wife Kristen and Chad and wife Macon; 10 grandchildren; five great-grandchildren; and his brother Michael and wife Karen.

GoodDeeds

Assistance offered on AMI

• Roser Food Bank welcomes applicants who live, work or attend school on Anna Maria Island for food assistance, Roser Church, 512 Pine Ave., Anna Maria. Info: 941-778-0414.

• AID offers financial help to those who live on the island, go to church on the island, attend school on the island and work on the island. Info: 941-725-2433.

— Lisa Neff

Email listings to calendar@islander.org.

Terrell

Art

By Lisa Neff

Magnetic appeal

Many times I’ve seen a happy dance associated with loggerhead sea turtles.

I’ve seen sunbaked and sandy veterans of Anna Maria Island Turtle Watch do a happy dance when they come across an early season nest on the shore.

I’ve seen beachgoers do a happy dance when they come across turtle watch excavating a sea turtle nest.

And I’ve seen onlookers in a crowd of a thousand do a happy dance as rescued hatchlings are released to make their way to the Gulf of Mexico for the first time.

What I’ve never seen is a sea turtle do a happy dance.

But scientists have discovered that loggerhead turtles do have their own version of a happy dance and it’s all tied to their ability to navigate using Earth’s magnetic field.

In a study published in February in the journal Nature, researchers from the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill reported that loggerhead sea turtles use magnetic signatures to navigate the oceans and find their way back to specific locations. The study provides the first empirical evidence that sea turtles can learn, recognize and remember the unique magnetic fields of different geographic areas.

Kayla Goforth, the study’s first author, said, “Researchers have speculated for decades that animals can learn magnetic signatures, but this is the first empirical demonstration of that ability. It fills in an important gap in our knowledge.”

Loggerhead sea turtles are known for their incredible migrations. Scientists have long suspected that these turtles rely on Earth’s magnetic field to navigate and the UNC study confirms that they also use magnetic signatures to locate specific areas, such as feeding grounds. Through controlled experiments, the researchers demonstrated that loggerhead hatchlings can learn and remember the magnetic fields of locations where they receive food.

The study also revealed a surprising behavior: when hatchlings arrive at a location where they expect to find food, they perform a kind of dance. The turtles tilt in the water, raise their heads above the surface, paddle with their flippers and spin in place — a display of anticipation that underscores their ability to recognize magnetic cues.

“It is amazing that sea turtles have access to a wealth of invisible information that they use to navigate in ways that are hard for us to even imagine,” said UNC biology professor Catherine Lohmann, a co-author of the study.

“Anna Maria Island,” a pictorial history book of the island by bonner Joy, is available for $20 at Island Mail & Print, 3230 e. bay Drive, Holmes beach. Or purchase at islander.org. Joy is publisher of The Islander.

Wildlife rescue still recovering after 2024 storms

by Robert Anderson Islander Reporter

Life for Gail and Ed Straight, who operate Bradenton Beach-based nonprofit Wildlife Inc., has been anything but ordinary following the 2024 hurricanes.

The Straights, along with a small army of animalloving volunteers, have operated the rescue out of the Straight home on Avenue B since 1987 and the impacts of hurricanes Helene and Milton left them reeling.

They saw structural damage, as well as lost their appliances, automobiles and most of the wildlife rehabilitation supplies and equipment.

However, Gail Straight said Feb. 19 that the rescue is about a month from reopening officially and, in the meantime, they are still receiving animals and doing their best to care for them.

For the week ending Feb. 23, the rescue saw about a dozen drop-offs, mostly seabirds, due to an offshore outbreak of red tide.

“Cormorants and pelicans mostly, they’re all coming in sick and, because they are sick, they come out of the water and go into the road and then get hit by cars,” Straight said.

Sick animals require equipment to help in their recovery and the center is working to replace gear lost to flooding during Helene last September

“We’ve gotten some smaller incubators,” she said. “Of course, our big ones that we had gotten from the hospital all got ruined (in the flooding), so we lost all of those.

“And you know nobody’s going to donate those. Those are worth $100,000 or something.”

Straight said after the repairs are completed to the

building, she’ll focus on future needs.

“We’ll end up putting out a list of what we need once we’re totally open again because we lost just about everything,” she said.

The nonprofit relies on community support and donations and Straight said the response after the storm was overwhelming.

“I just want to thank everybody for their concern. Thank everybody for the donations and to say we’re working hard to get back on our feet,” Straight said.

To assist Wildlife Inc., call 941-704-6843 or visit wildlifeinc.org and go to “how to help.”

to navigate with remarkable precision, whether they’re finding their way to feeding grounds as juveniles or returning to their natal beaches to nest as adults.

“The ability to distinguish among magnetic fields of different geographic areas likely explains how many animals —not just sea turtles — can navigate long distances to specific locations,” said UNC biology professor Ken Lohmann, another co-author of the study.

The findings have broader implications for understanding animal navigation and the role of Earth’s magnetic field in guiding migratory species. “This discovery provides a major advancement in the broader scientific understanding of how animals perceive and use the Earth’s magnetic field,” read a UNC news release.

Odd Duck Designs Shop Wearable T-shirt art by local artist Connie Wolgast. Scan

The research also uncovered that loggerheads possess two distinct magnetic senses: one for their magnetic map, which helps them determine their location, and another for their magnetic compass, which guides their direction. This dual system allows them

For the volunteers of Anna Maria Island Turtle Watch and the beachgoers who celebrate sea turtles, the study adds a new layer of knowledge to the loggerheads’ journey.

And, while most of us may never see a loggerhead sea turtle do a happy dance, it’s heartwarming to think of them spinning, tilting and paddling their way home.

A researcher holds a loggerhead hatchling. Islander Photo: Courtesy Ken Lohmann/UNC-Chapel Hill

Neff

need a good laugh? visit the NEW emerson quillin signature store. humor, art, gifts.

New epoxy floors are part of the improvements at Wildlife Inc. Feb. 19, with new drywall on the way. The wildlife rescue needed repairs after damages from the 2024 hurricanes. Islander Courtesy Photo

Youth, adult flag football winds

by Kevin P. Cassidy Islander Reporter

The winter season of flag football at the Center of Anna Maria Island is winding down and heading to the playoffs.

The 8-10 division regular season came to an end last week and players were set to participate in a skills competition Feb. 25.

The final seedings for the playoffs in the 8-10 division are set with Adrian Griffin Interiors earning the top seed via a tiebreaker over second seed Moss Builders and third seed Diamond Turf, all with 3-1 records. Solid Rock Construction at 1-3 and The Fish Guy Aquarium Services at 0-4 complete the standings.

Cassidy

Final regular season action Feb. 18 saw Moss Builders cruise to a 26-6 victory over Diamond Turf behind four touchdown passes from Miles Moss, two of which went to Parker Svoboda, who finished with a game-high eight receptions while adding an interception on defense. Juliette Sato and Owen Mahoney added touchdown catches for Moss Builders in the victory.

Sebastian Buser connected with Lucas Urbiola for the lone score for Diamond Turf, which also received seven catches from Owen Guth and four flag pulls from Jordan Steele in the loss.

The second 8-10 division match of the evening saw Adrian Griffin Interiors crush the Fish Guy Aquarium Services 30-7.

With one week remaining in the league’s 11-13 division, there is a log jam at the top of the standings. Moss Builders, Sato Real Estate and Solid Rock Construction are 5-1. Jiffy Lube holds the fourth spot with a 3-3 record, while Poppo’s Taqueria, Sandhoff Construction and Salty Printing are battling for the fifth seed. Shady Lady Horticultural Services has the eighth seed and will take on whichever team ends up as top seed when the playoffs begin.

Feb. 17 action in the 11-13 division saw three blowouts, starting with Moss Builders earning a 25-6 victory over Jiffy Lube. The second game of the evening saw Sato Real Estate cruise past Poppo’s Taqueria 30-14, while the third game saw Solid Rock Air Conditioning outscore Sandhoff Construction 40-27.

The last game of the night saw Salty Printing hold on for a 24-18 victory over Shady Lady. Jahkari Steele had a huge game for Salty Printing, throwing three touchdown passes and running for another score, while also chipping in with an interception. Jordan Steele, Elijah Casciani and Turner Worth each had TD catches on offense, while Worth added six flag pulls and three quarterback sacks on defense.

Stone Mitchell paced Shady Lady with a TD catch, an interception return for a TD and a safety. Charlie Neri threw

Leaders play a vital role in guiding, inspiring and empowering teams to achieve shared goals while fostering growth and innovation. We appreciate their dedication, vision and the positive impact they create in shaping a better future for all. We believe everyone has the potential to lead, and we’re committed to empowering our team members to develop their leadership skills. Through mentorship, training programs and opportunities to take on new challenges, we encourage growth, build confidence, and inspire leadership at every level. Here is a picture of some of our team at a leadership conference last month!

— The Grooms Family Team

Coastal Properties, finishing with a pair of TD passes, four flag pulls and an interception he returned for a TD. Ethan Darak, Angel Aurand and Jack McCarthy each added TD catches, while McCarthy finished with a pair of interceptions and Darak had a sack safety.

In other action Feb. 17, Moss Builders outscored Cortez Florida Vacations 30-19 and Solid Rock Electrical shortcircuited Solid Rock Air Conditioning by a 42-0 score.

Adult flag football news

With one week remaining in the adult flag football league at the community center, Moss Builders clinched the No. 1 seed for the playoffs with a 9-0 record. Gulf Drive Cafe and Floridian Mortgage follow with 7-1 and 7-2 records respectively. Moss Air is in the mix with a 6-2 record, and Slicker’s Eatery holds down fifth place with a 4-4 record, just ahead of Solid Rock Construction. Coaster Continent and MI-Box are tied for seventh, while Ross Built holds down the ninth spot in the standings at 2-6. Reel Coastal Properties at 1-8 and 0-8 Slim’s Place complete the standings.

Game night action for the week on the center field will complete the seedings for the top five, which will earn a first-round bye. The opening round of the playoffs will determine the matchups.

Stay tuned.

Key Royale golf news

After a couple of busy weeks for the golf members at the Key Royale Club in Holmes Beach, action was limited to the regularly scheduled matches last week, starting with the men’s modified-Stableford system match Feb. 17.

The trio of Jim Hill, Bill MacMillan and Tom Thomas all finished in a tie for first place at plus-6. Rob Ellis was a point back in second place and Jeff Jump was alone in third at plus-4.

for a TD, Colson Mendiola had a 2-point conversion and David Zupa added another safety to complete the Shady Lady scoring in the loss.

The 14-17 division has a week left in the regular season and the top seed is still up for grabs. Solid Rock Electrical is currently in the top spot with a 5-1 record, just ahead of HSH Design and Moss Builders, which are 4-2. Cortez Florida Vacations holds down the fourth spot with a 3-3 record, while Solid Rock Air Conditioning at 2-4 and Reel Coastal Properties at 0-6 complete the standings.

Action Feb. 17 kicked off with HSH Design holding off winless Reel Coastal Properties 34-27 behind five TD passes from Jack Mattick. Frankie Coleman had a pair of TD grabs, as did Jaxon Kagin, who also added a pair of extra-point catches. Chase Castagna chipped in with a TD catch, while Coleman dominated defensively with three interceptions and a safety.

Grayson Randlett had a big all-around game for Reel

The women played a nine-hole individual-low-net match in two flights Feb. 18.

Pam Lowry and Helen Pollock both fired 2-under-par 30s to finish in a tie for first place in Flight A. Jenny Huibers and Barb Rinckey tied for second at 1-over-par 33, while Brenda Solleveld was a stroke back in third place.

Annette Hall and Marty Clark both carded 2-under-par 30s to tie for first place in Flight B. Judy Menchek took second place with a 1-under-par 31, while Heather Pritchard was alone in third with a 1-over-par 33.

Action Feb. 20 saw the members compete in a shamble with the best two scores from each group contributing to a par 64. The team of Rod Hammonds, Tom Nelson and Blake Ress combined on a 1-under-par 63 to earn clubhouse bragging rights for the day. Second place went to the team of Brian Hogan, Ron Huibers, Nub Turner and Tom Young with a score of even-par 64.

More online: Soccer league signup, AMI Pitchers winners.

Moss builders receiver Parker Svoboda, right, and Diamond Turf defenders enzo Castro and Jordan Steele battle for the ball during Feb. 18 football action at the Center of Anna Maria Island. Islander

Photo: Kevin P. Cassidy

Baseball is back at LECOM

by Lisa Neff Islander editor

Holy cow, that’s the crack of a bat whacking a ball and the roar of a crowd on Ninth Street West in Bradenton.

The Pittsburgh Pirates are back on the fi eld at LECOM Park.

Spring training opened with a fl urry of promotional events at LECOM and Pirate City, as well as other venues, including a community block party on Old Main in Bradenton Feb. 15 and a Manatee Chamber of Commerce luncheon Feb. 12 at Bradenton’s Pier 22.

The Pirates’ fi rst game of the season was Feb. 22 against the Baltimore Orioles in Sarasota and the first home game was Feb. 23 against the Minnesota Twins.

The team, one of 15 in the Florida Grapefruit League, finished in last place in the National League Central in 2024 with a record of 76-86. But Pirates president Travis Williams, addressing the chamber luncheon, said “energy is high and so is our players’ belief in this team and their expectations for themselves. They know … this group has what it takes to win. They just need to execute and they have been working hard in the offseason to be prepared to come to spring training and start that journey.”

Williams said the Pirates’ “Southern home” is a vital location in their journey toward October play.

It’s also a tourist draw.

LECOM, formerly known as McKechnie Field and one of the oldest active spring training facilities in Major League Baseball, has been home to the Pirates since 1969.

“You hear so many wonderful stories of fans who have made the move from Pittsburgh to Bradenton year-round or who schedule their family vacations around spring training over the years,” Williams said. He added, “It’s amazing to me how many people plan their lives around Pirates baseball and the city of Bradenton.”

Locals also make plans around spring training and catching at least one game in March.

“It gets all my sports attention,” said Kris Thackery of Bradenton Beach, who attended the block party with her three school-age kids.

“My March Madness is spring training,” said baseball enthusiast Robert Cruz of Holmes Beach, who became a Pirates fan upon a move to the area in 2008. “I usually get to five, six games.”

There’s still a lot of baseball left before MLB’s opening day March 27.

And, when the regular season arrives and the Pirates head home to Pittsburgh, LECOM welcomes the Marauders and a full season of Minor League ball.

Pirates infielders Jared Triolo, left, and Nick Gonzales sign autographs Feb. 15 during the Spring Training block Party on bradenton’s Old Main Street. Matt Gorski, Jack brannigan, Mike burrows and braxton Ashcraft also were on the autograph roster. Islander Photos: Lisa Neff

Find more information

For more on spring training, go to pirates.com/ springtraining.

For imore information about the Marauders, go to bradentonmarauders.com.

The LECOM Park box office is at 1611 Ninth St. W., Bradenton.

LeFT: Marty the Marauder mascot greets people on Old Main Street in bradenton during a baseballthemed block party Feb. 15.

Pickleball Extravaganza at community center

The Center of Anna Maria Island’s Pickleball Extravaganza is set for noon-4 p.m. Sunday, March 2, in partnership with Luvv Pickleball.

The event will include a clinic, professional exhibition and Pro-Am match, as well as music, raffles and refreshments.

Tickets range from $25 for a spectator to $250 for the “pro experience.”

Proceeds will benefit center health and wellness programs.

The center is at 407 Magnolia Ave., Anna Maria.

For more information, go to centerami.org/ events or call 941-778-1908.

Pirates president Travis Williams addresses a Manatee Chamber of Commerce luncheon Feb. 12 at Pier 22 in bradenton.

ITEMS FOR SALE

RACK: MeTAL FOUR-tier, $20. 941-920-2494.

24-FOOT FI be RGLASS Werner extension ladder. e xcellent condition, $150. Anna Maria. 941-782-8733.

ANTIQU e PARTN e R D e SK: All wood, $500. Inquire at 941-778-7978.

FREEBIE ITEMS FOR SALE

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

ANNOUNCEMENTS

WANT TO SeLL new/used nautical and fishing items? Cortez Nautical Flea Market spots available for purchase, $25 plus tax. Visit FloridaMaritimeMuseum.org to purchase a spot. Call 941708-6120 with questions.

bRIDGe GAMeS ON Fridays at The Center on Magnolia Street, Anna Maria. 11:30 a.m. TO 2:30 p.m. Call 314-324-5921 for details.

GARAGE SALES

LONG b OAT K e Y’S b IGG e ST and best Royal Rummage sale XVII. 11 a.m.-2 p.m. Friday, Feb. 28, $5 admission. 9 a.m.-noon Saturday, March 1, free admission. St. Mary Star of The Sea, 4280 Gulf of Mexico Drive.

PETS

MISSING CAT: HOLMeS beACH. Male, Cinnamon. Don’t attempt to catch, do feed. If seen, call Mel, 941-592-2551.

TRANSPORTATION

GOLF CART R e NTALS: Fun for residents and tourists! 212-941-2402. www.GolfCartRentalAMI. com

More ads = more readers in The Islander.

Tree Trimming. LICENSED & INSURED

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 941-704-9382.

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

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.

1989 COM-PAC 27MK/II SAILbOAT: Very good condition, no storm damage, new bottom paint and Genoa, recent autopilot and charger, sixfoot, one-inch headroom, enclosed head, propane stove and more. $21,750. 727-479-4919.

24-FOOT WALK-around cabin. Polar. $25,000 ObO. Depth recorded, radar, ship-to-shore radio. Sleeps two. Tandem trailer. Call 813-215-1727, (leave message).

HELP WANTED

NOW HIRING HANDYMAN: Full-time professional services. $18 an hour and up, based on experience. Call JayPros, 941-962-2874.

RePORTeR WANTeD: Full- to part-time. Print media, newspaper experience required. Apply via email with letter of interest to news@islander. org.

KIDS FOR HIRE

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

HEALTH CARE

SeASONAL ReTIReD RN available to assist with your family or your needs, 20 years’ experience. For more information, please, call 973-8192824.

SERVICES

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

CLeANING: VACATION, CONSTRUCTION, residential, commercial and windows. Licensed and insured. 941-756-4570.

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

bICYCLe RePAIRS: Just4Fun at 5358 Gulf Drive can do most any bicycle repair at a reasonable cost. Pick-up and delivery available. 941-8967884.

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

PC OR T e 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.

SERVICES

RIDeeASY 247 YOUR professional, reliable and courteous car service to airports and events since 2015. You can reach us via text 941-447-7737 or email to mrfort5001@gmail. com We are available 24/7.

LOOK NO MOR e ! Residential, vacation rental and commercial cleaning. Give us a call, 941250-8548.

LOOKING FOR SOMeONe who needs me: Clean, house-sit. I can cook, make sandwiches. I can do anything you can do but better! I can run to the grocery store for you. I can walk pets or go out to lunch with you. Looking for a part-time job caregiving companion, I am your right arm! I love people and I love helping others. I have references and I’m reliable and dependable. My name is Dena Gray a.k.a. Sparkles! 941-704-9948.

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

IS YOUR POOL deck, driveway, or garage floor looking worn out and dated? bring them back to life with our top-tier resurfacing services! Services offered: Pool deck resurfacing, Slip-resistant, cool-to-the-touch finishes that enhance safety and aesthetics. Driveway resurfacing, durable surfaces that stand up to heavy traffic and harsh weather. Garage floor resurfacing, easy-to-clean, stain-resistant surfaces that look great and perform even better. Don’t wait! Transform your spaces today with our trusted resurfacing services. Contact us now for a free consultation and estimate. Call U Plus Me LLC at 727-6235050 or visit u-plus-me.com

WINDOW CL e ANING: DOWN e AST Window Cleaning, 207-852-6163.

AIRPORT SHUTTLe: QUALITY transportation, 10 years by Lewber. 352-339-3478.

AFFORDAbLe PReSSURe WASHING: Decks, driveways, houses, boats and more. 941-3561456.

bUSINeSS-TO-bUSINeSS JD’s Window Cleaning looking for storefront jobs in Holmes beach. I make dirty windows sparkling clean. 941-9203840.

beACH SeRVICe air conditioning, heat, refrigeration. Commercial and residential service, repair and/or replacement. Serving Manatee County and the Island since 1987. For dependable service, call bill eller, 941-720-7411. Residential, call Nate, 941-524-2248. CAC184228.

SERVICES Continued

CLeAN TeCH MObILe Detailing. At your location. Cars, boats, RVs. Call or text billie for an appointment. 941-592-3482.

LAWN & GARDEN

CONNIe’S LANDSCAPING INC. Residential and commercial. Full-service lawn maintenance, landscaping, cleanups, hauling and more! Insured. 941-713-1965.

COLLINS LANDSCAPe LIGHTING: Outdoor lighting, landscaping, irrigation services and maintenance. 941-279-9947. MJC24373@ gmail.com

NOW HAULING STORM trash. Shell delivered and spread. Hauling all kinds of gravel, mulch, topsoil with free estimates. Call Larry at 941-7957775, 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 NTS 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 PAINTING 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.

MASSeY CONTRACTING: PROVIDING quality roofing services on all jobs, big or small. Giving honest, hassle-free quotes at a great price. Call Jon to schedule your free estimate, 727-477-5313. Lic#CCC1332486.

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

GeT FLOOReD NOW Inc.: Carpet, tile, wood, waterproof plank laminate. Top brands, best prices, excellent service. 35 years’ experience. Third generation. Free estimates. George Hefner, 941-580-2118.

QUeeN bee PAINTING: “We Do It Royally.” Interior/exterior painting and pressure washing, pool decks, garage floors, cabinets, popcorn ceiling and wallpaper removal, drywall, door and trim install and repair, window cleaning. Sheryl, 864-884-3380.

HOME IMPROVEMENT Continued

ISLAND HANDYMAN: I live here, work here, value your referral. Refinish, paint. Just ask. JayPros. Licensed/insured. References. Call Jay, 941-9622874.

RENTALS

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

AVAILAbLe NOW AND season: 1bR/1bA, sevennight minimum. carlesvacationrentals.com Special rates are available. 941-807-1405.

MAY 2025 AVAILAbLe: Snowbird special! Perico Island patio home, single floor, high ceilings, 3bR/2bA, privacy wall/gate, two-car garage. Call or text Alison, 859-771-6423. www.pericoislandrental.com

AVAILA b L e MARCH 1 FOR rent: Anna Maria Island condo. Seasonal and annual rental availability. Great value. b eautiful upgraded first floor 2 b R/2 b R. Incredible water view. excellent rental terms. Owner/ renter. Call/email for pics, 570-239-0431. marketreps@aol.com

MINUTeS TO beACHeS! 2bR/2bA condo, water and cable included, pool, washer/dryer, $1,795/ month, annual, 941-713-6743.

ReNTAL: MARCH, APRIL, May. 1bR/1bA condo, second floor, all inclusive. West bradenton. 941962-0971.

ANNUAL ReNTAL: 2bR/1bA, all new appliances, backyard and small pet allowed. $1,900 month. 4412 100th St. W. bradenton. Call Mike Norman Realty, 941-778-6696.

FOR SAL e OR lease: Downtown b radenton, west end of the Riverwalk, a dynamic 55-plus walk-a-bout community. 2 bR/2bA has panoramic views of Manatee River and Marina. Geri Kenyon, 941-725-4374. Florida Suncoast Real estate.

2026 WAT e RFRONT VILLA: Seasonal rental. Minutes to beach. 1,312 sf, open floor plan on 89 acres of paradise. $4,400/month. Four-month minimum. Phil, 941-725-1043.

LOCATION PLUS: NOT flood zone. Freshly painted, bright and spacious villa. 2bR/2bA plus den and two-car garage. Heated pool and spa, RV and boat storage available. Real estate Mart, 941-356-1456.

REAL ESTATE

WINNI e MCHAL e , R e ALTOR, 941-5046146. Dalton Wade Real estate. You need an aggressive and experienced Realtor in today’s market! Selling island homes, Sarasota and b radenton areas. Multi-milliondollar producer! “Selling Homes - Making Dreams Come True.”

REAL ESTATE Continued

MULTIPLe HOMeS IN 55-plus lot rent park for sale in bradenton. Some fully furnished under $20,000. Call Kathryn with Integrity Mobile Home Sales. 407-674-0220.

FOR SALe bY owner: Perico bay Club. 2bR/2bA villa. enclosed garage, gated community/guard, completely renovated, turnkey, great rental. bob, 732-673-4684.

OP e N HOUS e S: 10 a.m.-3 p.m. Wednesday, Feb. 26 and Sunday March 2, $750,000. 2bR/ bA. Incredible water views! beautifully renovated. Park-like Westbay Point & Moorings. 6200 Flotilla Drive, #305. Zillow FSbO. 207-944-7369.

FOR SAL e b Y owner: Perico b ay Club. 2bR/2bA villa, enclosed garage, lake view. Gated community, guard. Completely renovated, turnkey. Minutes to beaches. Rental opportunities. Call bob, 732-673-4684.

ISLAND CONDO ALT e RNATIV e : Not a flood zone. Custom-built @bR/@bA, two-car garage with southwestern flair and beautiful garden. Amenities are heated pool and spa. Clubhouse with Tampa bay sunsets. $795,000. Real estate Mart, 941-356-1456.

Choose fishing window opportunities for best outcomes

by Capt. Danny Stasny Islander Reporter

Anna Maria Island anglers must be be selective on their choice of days to fish as variables — wind, cold fronts and red tide are leaving small windows of opportunity to find success on the water.

Finding any consistency in a bite is challenging. Conditions can change in two-three days, causing fish to relocate and sending anglers on the hunt again.

To keep positive, let’s talk about the better days, when the tides are good and the fish are behaving.

On warmer, less windy days, catch-and-release snook fishing is quite good, which brings a promising outlook to mind for anglers anticipating the springtime bite. The snook are venturing out of their wintertime haunts and onto shallow grass flats to forage on shrimp, crabs and bait fish.

On the warmest days, the snook have been aggressive, blasting baits on the surface with some airborne shows in the process. Spotted seatrout are following suit, invading many of the grass fl ats from Miguel Bay south to Sarasota Bay. They also are feeding on most anything that crosses their path when conditions are right. Swift tides, warm weather and slightly clear water add up to the perfect recipe for the fish to get right and be on the feed.

Fishing along the beaches also is red hot for trout right now, although a brief interruption of red tide shut down the bite, leaving surf anglers to reroute to a different beach or try fishing in the bays.

As for redfish, many are being found while targeting snook on shallow grass flats, especially where oyster bars or mangroves exist. Solitary schools of reds also are being found around rocks and docks, providing sizzling action for anglers lucky enough to discover them.

So, as you can see, fishing in between the fronts can be entertaining as long as you have the time and patience to pick your days according to what Mother Nature offers.

And just think, as we progress out of winter into spring, the fronts will become less frequent and we’ll have consistently good fishing again.

On my Just Reel charters, I’ve been fishing throughout the good and the bad days but that’s the nature of my business.

On the good days, I was inclined to keep my clients on the water past their scheduled charter time. The bite was so good I couldn’t bring myself to pull anchor and call it quits.

Catch-and-release snook action was nothing short of superb — some trips resulting in 20-30 snook hookups in a morning session. And, to top it off, having a mix of redfi sh and big trout made for days to be remembered by myself and my clients.

On those harder days during cold fronts, I’ve been managing to put a bite together, although it is requiring a lot of moves to catch a significant number of fish. On some days, I’m finding myself traveling from one spot to another in 50-degree weather with a north wind blowing 20 mph, causing thoughts of other careers.

But that will never happen. After all, winter is almost over and springtime fishing is just around the corner.

Capt. Johnny Mattay says fishing is really good on the warm, calm days between the cold fronts. He says the catch-and-release snook are firing off when using live shiners as bait. The same applies for spotted seatrout and Mattay says he’s catching limits. Redfish also are on the list, with many hookups around rocks and docks.

Mattay says that once the winds lay down, he’s anticipating the offshore bite to be quite good and he’s anxious to get out there on the Gulf of Mexico to pull on some big fish.

Capt. David White is finding plenty of catch-andrelease snook action during the warmer days. Casting live shiners over the grass flats is yielding good action

Father and son, Tom and Mike Neely, show off a pair of snook they caught and released Feb. 18 on a guided fishing trip with Capt. David White, who said, “We’ve been friends for 20 years.” Mike works at the Waterfront Restaurant in Anna Maria and his father was visiting from Redwood, New York.

on this most popular flats fish.

Redfish also are being caught on White’s charter trips, with many fish found along the beaches and among residential docks and mangrove shorelines.

Lastly, White is putting clients on schools of large jack crevalle, which, although they have no food value, are adequate in the fighting department as they wear out his client’s arms and keep them entertained. Send high-resolution photos and fishing reports to fish@islander.org.

belinda Cole of bradenton shows off a slot-size snook she caught and released Feb. 19 while fishing with Capt.

Cortez Fishing Village Immaculate 3 bedroom, 2.5 bath located just a half mile to the beaches of Anna Maria Island. Ready for immediate occupancy with NO projects needed. Recent updates include installation of luxury vinyl wood-look flooring and fresh paint. Low-maintenance yard and spacious open deck in a very private back courtyard. $499,000. 800-367-1617

Danny Stasny of Just Reel Fishing Charters.

MIKE NORMAN REALTY EST. 1978

Allegiant Air expands service from SRQ

Now booking from MLI to SRQ. And back.

Allegiant Air in mid-February expanded its service from Sarasota-Bradenton International Airport.

The new routes include:

• Greenville-Spartanburg International Airport, South Carolina.

• Quad Cities International Airport, Moline, Illinois.

• Albany International Airport, New York.

• Elmira Corning Regional Airport, New York.

• Eppley Airfield, Omaha, Nebraska.

• Roanoke-Blacksburg Regional Airport, Virginia.

• McGhee Tyson Airport, Knoxville, Tennessee.

“We are thrilled to see Allegiant Air expanding their routes to include seven new nonstop destinations operating out of our new Concourse A,” Rick Piccolo, SRQ president and CEO, said in a Feb. 13 news release.

The expansion increased the number of nonstop Allegiant destinations at SRQ to 35 and the total number of nonstop destinations served by all airlines at SRQ to 68.

For more information, go to allegiant.com.

Business news Does your business celebrate achievements? Maybe you’re new in business or your staff deserves kudos. Submit your information to news@islander.org.

isl biz calendar

THIS WEEK

Thursday, Feb. 27

5-7 p.m. — Anna Maria Island Chamber of Commerce Business Card Exchange and board meet-and-greet, Compass Hotel Anna Maria Sound, 12324 Manatee Ave. W., Perico Island. Fee applies. Info: 941-778-1541, teri@amichamber.org.

Friday, Feb. 28

11:30 a.m. — Manatee Chamber of Commerce Day with the Pirates, LECOM Park, 1611 Ninth St. W., Bradenton. Fee applies. Info: 941-748-3411.

SAVE THE DATES

• May 4, Spring Expo, convention center, Palmetto.