Tingley Library celebrates reopening, renewal
By robert anderson Islander reporter
The Tingley Memorial Library celebrated a grand reopening Feb. 24 following a year of financial strain and storm-related damage that had raised questions about its long-term viability.
The library began in 1959 as the Bradenton Beach Public Library, a private nonprofit organization staffed by volunteers and housed in the Harvey Memorial Community Church on Church Street. The library has since been housed in a storefront on Bridge Street, then a room at city hall, a beach cottage owned by the city and eventually the elevated building at 111 Second St. N.
Founded through a bequest from Beulah Tingley, the Tingley Memorial Library traces its origins to the political activist and champion of women’s rights who became the first woman to address a Democratic National Convention when she seconded the nomination of Franklin Delano Roosevelt in 1944.
Tingley later became a Bradenton Beach resident and a member of the city’s library board. An avid reader, she observed that the city lacked a dedicated public library space and left more than $600,000 in her estate for the construction and operation of a permanent library when she died in 1986. The current building opened in 1994 using funds from her bequest.
Mary Jo Morton, left, and her husband, Mark, point to a photograph Feb. 24 during the reopening celebration at the Tingley Memorial Library. The photo of Beulah Tingley was taken at the city docks in the 1950s. Tingley bequeathed the funds to establish the library. “She was very strong and very opinionated,” Morton said of Tingley. Islander Photo: robert anderson
portrait of Beulah Tingley, a champion of women’s rights, reading and public libraries.
Islander File Photo
That legacy faced strain in 2024 when hurricanes Helene and Milton damaged the building and intensified concerns about mounting repair and operational costs. After the storms, the library didn’t reopen to the public until January 2025.
In May 2025, city officials cited needed structural repairs and rising costs at the library, with expenses exceeding $100,000 after a roof replacement.
During that same report, city treasurer Shayne Thompson said annual operating costs for the library
PLEaSE, SEE TINGLEY, PaGE 10
HB commission opposes port
By ryan Paice Islander reporter
The Holmes Beach City Commission joined the those challenging a proposal to build a cruise ship port in Manatee County.
City commissioners voted 4-0 Feb. 24 to adopt a resolution opposing the establishment of a cruise ship terminal on the 328-acre Knott-Cowen tract southwest of the Sunshine Skyway Bridge. Commission Chair Carol Whitmore was absent with excuse.
Landowner Slip Knott LLC and global terminal operator SSA Marine have outlined a multi-berth facility designed to serve cruise ships too tall to pass beneath the Skyway’s 180-foot vertical clearance.
The project would require rezoning and a largescale comprehensive plan amendment on the county level.
The proposal has been met with widespread opposition, including from anglers, conservationists, local officials and Terra Ceia residents concerned about the port’s potential impact on the environment.
City Commissioner Terry Schaefer proposed the resolution to join the wave of opposition at a Feb. 10 commission meeting and the board reached consensus to draft it.
The resolution states that development of the proposed terminal would “likely require extensive dredging in a sensitive coastal estuary ecosystem.”
It also voices opposition to the proposal and urges the county to “carefully consider the environmental and infrastructural impacts” in the event a formal
Voters to decide WMFR tax question March 10
By ryan Paice Islander reporter
West Manatee Fire Rescue District voters have a ballot to cast in less than a week.
Voters can cast ballots Tuesday, March 10, in a special election for a referendum question authorizing WMFR to levy annual ad valorem taxes not to exceed 1 mill beginning in fiscal 2026-27.
The district currently levies non-ad valorem assessment fees that consist of a residential or commercial base rate plus additional charges for square footage.
It has pushed for decades to gain the authority to levy ad valorem taxes in an effort to increase revenues, but all previous attempts have failed.
The referendum will require a simple majority to pass.
If it is approved, WMFR will be able to levy up to 1 mill in ad valorem taxes for each property in the district.
The millage rate is the amount per $1,000 of property value used to calculate property taxes, so the owner of a property with the assessed value of $500,000 would pay $500 in annual ad valorem taxes to the district at the 1 mill maximum rate.
However, the potential millage rate has yet to be determined — it would be set by a WMFR commission vote if the referendum passes — and the district does not have a set plan for how the new revenue would be used.
Proponents argue the increased revenues could be used to:
Librarian Stephanie Katz, center, speaks with city staff and guests during the Feb. 24 reopening celebration at the Tingley Memorial Library in Bradenton Beach. The library, shut down by the 2024 hurricanes, reopened in a limited capacity in early 2025. Islander Photo: robert anderson
a
Schaefer
DOT’s 78-foot Longboat Pass Bridge proposal draws opposition
By robert anderson Islander reporter
As the Florida Department of Transportation continues evaluating replacement options for the Longboat Pass Bridge, Longboat Key officials and residents are making their position known ahead of March public workshops.
The 1957 drawbridge connecting Bradenton Beach and Longboat Key provides 24 feet of vertical clearance and is nearing 70 years old. It is under evaluation for replacement, with project limits extending from North Shore Road on Longboat Key to Coquina Park in Bradenton Beach.
DOT project manager David Turley told The Islander Feb. 24 that the agency continues to evaluate three alternatives: a low-level 24-foot clearance bascule bridge, a mid-level 35-foot bascule bridge and a 78-foot-high fixed-span bridge, along with a no-build option.
Longboat Key Mayor Ken Schneier said Feb. 27 that no decision had been announced, but cost has led the state to favor a tall bridge.
“When we were asked for our view as a town, we said that we very much would prefer to have another higher bascule bridge, the kind that is there now, rather than a high rise,” Schneier said.
The mayor added, “They said it would cost more money to build any kind of a drawbridge now and it costs a lot more to maintain it and operate it over time, to the tune of some $40 million, for any kind of a drawbridge versus a high rise.”
DOT estimates place the fixed-span option at about $137.8 million, compared with $176 million to $183.8 million for the bascule alternatives.
According to DOT projections, the tall fixed-span bridge would extend roughly three-quarters of a mile. Built at an estimated 4.5% grade, it would require about 1,700 feet of climb on each side to reach 78 feet,
improving drivability but lengthening the footprint and bringing the landing closer to nearby residences.
Schneier said opposition reflects concerns from residents in the north end, where the bridge would land.
“It’s going to be coming down right outside the windows of some condos that have been there for a long time,” he said.
“It’s going to be unsafe for drivers. It’s going to be unsafe and maybe not workable for our older walkers and bikers, even though they’re going to make it a little bit wider,” he added.
Schneier added the bridge serves more than motorists.
RoadWatch
By Lisa Neff
Eyes on the road
State Road 64/Anna Maria Island Bridge: The Manatee Avenue Water Main Intracoastal Crossing project is underway at the bridge, requiring temporary lane closures. Info: www.amiprojects.io, 941-3064660, info@amiprojects.io.
Gulf Drive/55th Street/56th Street : Holmes Beach’s Gulf Drive Sea Level Rise Mitigation Project continues into April, with periodic lane closures in the area of 55th Street and 56th Street, from Gulf Drive to Marina Drive. Info: 941-708-5768, mgorman@holmesbeachfl.org.
Gulf Drive/State Road 789: The Florida Department of Transportation is milling and resurfacing Gulf Drive from Coquina Beach in Bradenton Beach to State Road 64/Manatee Avenue in Holmes Beach through May 1. Motorists can expect single-lane closures overnight. Info: swflroads.com/project/451021-1.
Cortez Bridge: Construction activities are ongoing on the south side of Cortez Road West east of the bridge. Pipe installation work is expected to continue into the spring. Info: 941-306-4660, info@amiprojects. io, amiprojects.io.
The current bridge is narrow and dangerous for pedestrians, anglers and cyclists and the town supports widening it for safety.
The DOT set meetings on the Longboat Pass Bridge project development and engineering study for 5:30 p.m. Thursday, March 12, at Christ Church of Longboat Key, 6400 Gulf of Mexico Drive, Longboat Key, and 5:30 p.m. Tuesday, March 17, virtually.
For more information, go to www.swflroads.com/ project/436676-1.
an image-graphic shows the west end for the Manatee avenue submerged water main project at the Intracoastal Waterway. a work zone is on the east side of the Kingfish Boat ramp but the county amenity remains open to the public. a Feb. 24 project update stated boat ramp users might experience “minor inconveniences.” Underwater, underground pipe installation is set to begin March 9. Islander courtesy Image
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. Motorists can expect delays. Info: mymanatee.org/75th.
— Lisa Neff
Schneier
Save the date DOT reviews barrier island roadway options
Spring forward March 8
Got the time?
Daylight saving time will begin at 2 a.m. Sunday, March 8, with most of the country springing forward an hour.
And when does the time fall back?
Sunday, Nov. 1.
Though some U.S. territories and states do not observe daylight saving time, about 70 countries observe a time change.
Public safety officials say the time change provides an opportunity to also change any batteries in smoke and carbon-monoxide detectors.
application is submitted.
“Ultimately, it will be the county commission … that deals with an issue of this magnitude,” Schaefer said. “But I felt, and the commission agreed, that it was very important for us to take a stand.”
“From a quality-of-life standpoint, from an environmental standpoint, it created a great concern to our communities,” he added.
Schaefer also praised state Sen. Jim Boyd, R-Bradenton, for successfully amending Senate Bill 302 — a coastal resiliency bill sponsored by Ileana Garcia, R-Miami — to limit dredging and filling for the creation of infrastructure like a cruise terminal.
The legislation has unanimously passed the Senate, but a companion bill has yet to pass the House and both chambers must agree on identical language before a measure can go to Republican Gov. Ron DeSantis.
Schaefer moved to adopt the resolution. Commissioner Jessica Patel seconded the motion, which passed.
There was no public comment.
Copies of the resolution will be sent to the other island cities, as well as the cities of Bradenton and Palmetto.
By robert anderson Islander reporter
The Florida Department of Transportation presented improvement alternatives for the barrier islands during a Feb. 24 workshop, detailing potential changes in Bradenton Beach and Holmes Beach.
The workshop was part of a Barrier Island project development and environment study examining about 6 miles of roadway, mostly along State Road 789/Gulf Drive, from the Longboat Pass Bridge north to south of Anna Maria at Gulf Drive and the intersection of White Avenue/85th Street in Holmes Beach. Anna Maria opted out of the project.
A PD&E study is a process for determining whether improvements are needed and what alternatives best resolve concerns.
Display boards posted at the workshop at Kirkwood Church in Bradenton contained information about crash histories, traffic patterns and environmental considerations, as well as several build alternatives aimed at improving safety and mobility.
Crash data drew particular attention, as the DOT says there’s been an upward trend in severe crashes since 2019, with more than a third occurring in 2022. The corridor recorded 28 bicycle and pedestrian crashes during the study period, 21% classified as severe.
The DOT also presented three build alternatives, with proposed improvements at Cortez Road including either a 6-foot sidewalk, a 5-foot bicycle lane or a 10-foot shared-use path, along with potential shoulder upgrades and intersection reconfiguration.
Officials said the Cortez Road changes are intended to align with the replacement of the Cortez Bridge, which will begin this year.
Depending on the option selected, 17-24 parcels could be impacted, though no residential displacements are anticipated.
Construction costs are estimated at $42 million$42.5 million.
DOT materials state the no-build option would not
Maria
and Victoria hardeman and holmes Beach commissioner Dan Diggins review holmes Beach segments. Islander Photos: robert anderson
meet the project’s purpose and need.
Design, right-of-way acquisition and construction are not funded in DOT’s current five-year work program.
The study is expected to conclude in late 2026. For more information, visit swflroads.com.
Tupelo Tote for the beach, pool, boat with any Tupelo furniture
aBOVE: Engineer andre reaume explains proposed improvements at cortez road and Gulf Drive during a DOT workshop Feb. 24. BELOW: The DOT’s David Turley
Longtime clerk embraces retirement, future
By ryan Paice Islander reporter
After nearly two decades, a Holmes Beach city official is calling it a career.
City clerk Stacey Johnston spoke to The Islander Feb. 26 about her time with the municipality, how she feels about her upcoming retirement and her plans for the future.
Johnston has served in the charter role as clerk of record since August 2007. She will retire Friday, March 6, after more than 18 years.
Among other accomplishments, she served the Florida Association of City Clerks as president in 2021 and was named FACC’s Clerk of the Year in 2023.
FACC Southwest district director Scotty Lynn Kelly presented a retirement resolution to Johnston during a Feb. 24 Holmes Beach City Commission meeting, where FACC members and city officials recognized her service over the years.
Johnston received a standing ovation following the presentation, as well as a shower of handshakes, hugs, praise and well-wishes from city officials and staff.
“I can say this without question: you have always answered the bell,” Commissioner Terry Schaefer said. “I couldn’t thank you more for what you’ve done.”
“We’ve been through a lot of commissioners, a lot
Stacey Johnston, second from right, at a Feb. 24 city meeting, gifts deputy clerk Michelle Lowe, second from left, a going-away present: the pin she wore during her first meeting as city clerk. Islander Photo: robert anderson
of board members, and you always make everyone feel right at home,” Mayor Judy Titsworth added.
Johnston told The Islander Feb. 26 that she was honored by the presentation and the officials’ comments.
“It’s pretty rewarding,” she said.
Johnston said some of her proudest accomplishments during her time with the city included setting up the city’s website at holmesbeachfl.org, the website’s eScribe platform for livestreaming public meetings and the municipality’s Citizenserve and JustFOIA portals.
She also said it was an honor to serve as FACC president.
Johnston said she was not sure how she felt heading into retirement.
“I have worked all my life. This is what I’ve done all my life, so it’s going to be hard to leave it,” she said.
Nevertheless, Johnston said the thing that pushed her to retire was the recent death of another clerk, who only got to enjoy a few months of retirement before her death.
“Life’s too short,” she said. “I was like ‘OK, this is enough. Go enjoy life. Don’t do anything you don’t want to. Make retirement your best job you’ve ever had.’ So that’s kind of what I’m doing.”
She said she had no immediate plans heading into retirement, but wanted to attend her high school class’s 50-year reunion in Kansas later this year, as well as dust off some crafts — such as mosaics — she left on the backburner while working.
Johnston added that she and her husband, who is retired, ride a tandem bicycle for fun and he was looking around the state for trails to explore together.
However, Johnston’s job is not done just yet. She said she was working with Marina Hovious, who will succeed her as city clerk, to get her up to speed with the city’s operations before she retires.
Johnston added that Hovious reminded her of herself and felt confident that she was leaving the city clerk position in good hands.
Milestones
The Islander welcomes stories about islanders and island life, as well as photographs and notices of the milestones in readers’ lives — weddings, births, anniversaries, travels, obituaries and other events. Submit to news@islander.org.
A Hair Day Salon & Spa
Election 2026
District 6 primary grows
Tara Poulton has announced her candidacy for Manatee County’s at-large District 6 with a pledge to confront the affordability crisis head-on and protect Manatee County through fiscal discipline and responsible growth, according to a Feb. 24 news release.
Poulton
The countywide seat is currently held by Republican Jason Bearden. Poulton, a Republican who currently serves as U.S. Rep. Vern Buchanan’s district chief of staff, said her focus if elected would be holding the line on government spending and ensuring county decisions do not add to the financial pressure families are already facing.
Poulton, outlining her stances, stated her opposition to a proposed cruise ship terminal in Manatee due to concerns about its potential impact on the area’s fragile ecosystem.
She lives in Lakewood Ranch with her husband, Bill, their daughter, Mary Anne, and three stepchildren.
Poulton holds a master’s in public administration from Florida State University and a bachelor’s in communication from the University of South Florida.
Active candidates for the seat include Republicans Tony Barrett, John Calovich, Anthony Drake, Edward Ference, Adam Johnson and Douglas Sullivan and Democrat Reggie Bellamy.
Election calendar
• West Manatee Fire Rescue referendum voting, 7 a.m.-7 p.m. Tuesday, March 10.
• State, county and special district candidate qualifying, June 8-12.
• Anna Maria candidate qualifying, June 1-12.
• Bradenton Beach qualifying, June 8-12.
• Holmes Beach candidate qualifying, June 8-12.
• Registration deadline for 2026 primaries, Monday, July 20.
• Primary election, Tuesday, Aug. 18.
• General election, Tuesday, Nov. 3.
— Lisa Neff
• Establish a new station in Bradenton Beach, where the district recently purchased an old fire hall;
• Replace firefighting equipment that contains polyfluoroalkyl substances, also known as PFAs or forever chemicals;
• Improve the district’s training infrastructure. To vote, people can cast ballots 7 a.m.-7 p.m. on March 10. Voters must bring valid photo IDs with their signatures to their precinct’s polling locations, which will be:
• Roser Memorial Community Church, 512 Pine Ave., Anna Maria, for Precinct 301;
• Annie Silver Community Center, 103 23rd St. N., Bradenton Beach, for Precinct 307;
• Island Library, 5701 Marina Drive, Holmes Beach, for Precinct 305.
Mail ballots must be received by the Manatee County Supervisor of Elections Office by 7 p.m. on Election Day.
If the referendum passes, the tax will go into effect on Thursday, Oct. 1.
Anna Maria adopts beach commercialization codes, fines
By ryan Paice Islander reporter
The first wave of beach commercialization regulations has hit Anna Maria’s shores — specifically one stretch of beach along the Gulf of Mexico.
City commissioners unanimously voted Feb. 26 on motions to adopt an ordinance establishing rules for commercialization on beach zoned for recreation, as well as a resolution setting fines for violations.
Municipal code currently prohibits all commercial activity on its shores, but the municipality has not enforced the rule.
However, concerns about the emergence of cabana rental services and their impact on the beach led the city to draft code revisions to address beach commercialization moving forward.
The ordinance implements code changes, like:
• Allowing domestic animals in city parks, other than beaches and coastal barrier sand dunes;
• Defining “commercial rental area” and “temporary shade structure,” as well as prohibiting them from exceeding 169 square feet of ground coverage in total and 13 linear feet in any direction;
• Defining “passive recreation” as “low-intensity, non-motorized, non-organized outdoor activities that have minimal impact on the natural environment” and generally permitting such activity.
The ordinance also permits certain commercial activities in Gulf Front Park, a stretch of beach between Oak and Magnolia avenues.
That includes allowing organized passive recreation activities, like yoga, with no more than 15 participants, as long as it does not obstruct beach access.
implemented new regulations for beach commercialization. Islander
It also permits preordered commercial rental areas, such as rental cabanas, with several conditions, including:
• No more than two commercial rental areas can be placed within 50 linear feet of each other;
• Adjacent commercial rental areas cannot exceed 28 linear feet in any direction;
• Advertising and signage must be located on a temporary shade structure and cannot exceed four square feet or exceed the structure’s roofline;
• Commercial rental units cannot be delivered and set up before 7 a.m. and must be removed by dusk.
The ordinance will take effect March 15.
The resolution establishes a $100 fine for a first violation, a $200 fine for a second violation and a $500 fine for third and subsequent violations.
It also establishes a $50 fine for violations involv-
Former BB attorney’s final bill remains mostly on hold
By robert anderson Islander reporter
Most of the invoices submitted by former Bradenton Beach city attorney Ricinda Perry after her resignation remain under review.
According to city audit documents, Perry, who resigned last September, submitted $167,674 in invoices for January-September 2025 services in one bulk bill.
The nine-month statement went under review by the city commission in February.
City commissioners on Feb. 19 directed city attorney Erica Augello to authorize payment to Perry only for the September bill of $23,782 and to invite negotiation on the other fees due to concerns about discrepancies, including billing for meetings on dates when staff was not working, hours for a date exceeding 24 hours and storm-related services billed above an agreed rate.
A spreadsheet for the city audit includes written notations beside some billing entries. Several are marked “Storm — should be billed @$150,” referencing a reduced hourly rate.
During discussion Feb. 19, Commissioner Scott
Plan now for season!
Is your business ready to make the most of every week?
Improve your odds of success with Islander newspaper readers looking to shop and dine, seeking indoor and outdoor fun, and a place to stay for their next visit. Call or text 941-778-7978.
Bear referenced an invoice entry reflecting 26.1 hours billed in a day.
Commissioner Ralph Cole cautioned against assuming intent. “We have to make sure that it’s not a typo on the invoice … someone hit a wrong button,” he said.
During public comment at the meeting, resident Evelyn Stob said a city attorney should “stick to legal matters” only.
Another resident, Elayne Armaniaco, said, “I think accountability is super important. If an invoice is supposed to happen monthly, then it should be monthly.”
Armaniaco lives in the Pines Trailer Park, which sustained significant storm damage in 2024.
The Islander Feb. 25 reached out by phone to city treasurer Shayne Thompson, who declined to comment.
Augello was contacted Feb. 26 and Feb. 27 seeking clarifications and updates. As of Feb. 27, no final payment determination had been announced.
Perry was texted Feb. 27, but as of presstime for The Islander for the March 4 issue, there was no reply.
ing
The city will now look to address concerns about commercialization in the remainder of the beaches, which are zoned for coastal conservation.
Streetlife
Island police reports
By robert anderson and ryan Paice
Streetlife is based on incident reports from the Manatee County Sheriff’s Office, Bradenton Beach Police Department and Holmes Beach Police Department.
Anna Maria
No new reports.
Bradenton Beach
Feb. 22, Coquina South Boat Ramp, 2650 Gulf Drive S., vandalism. Manatee County parks employees reported to the BBPD that 17 concrete parking stops were broken into small pieces. Damage was estimated at $2,500.
Cortez
No new reports.
Holmes Beach
Feb. 20, 700 block of Manatee Avenue, arrest warrant. An HBPD officer located a motorist pinged by the city’s license plate recognition system and conducted a traffic stop. The officer spoke to the driver, who had an active warrant out of Miami-Dade County. The officer issued a court summons to the driver and a citation for marijuana found in his vehicle.
Feb. 21, Time Saver Liquor Store, 5353 Gulf Drive, domestic battery. HBPD officers responded to reports of a physical disturbance involving a man and woman and arrived to find the woman on the ground. She said she confronted her boyfriend about alleged infidelity, and he grabbed her wrist and struck her with a closed fist. She wanted to press charges. Officers located the boyfriend at the couple’s residence, arrested him and transported him to the Manatee County jail.
Call 911 in an emergency. Otherwise, call the MCSO-AM substation, 941-708-8899; BBPD, 941778-6311; or HBPD, 941-708-5804.
!
abandoned property on the beach.
a line of cabanas stretch across the beach in anna Maria, where the city
Photo: robert anderson
Good news, good news
I stumbled this week over an internet boast that talks up lists of bests and it included a music study that reveals rock tops Florida’s music preferences. I stumbled into some Southern rock when I came to Anna Maria Island in the mid-1970s.
It was a really super Sunday and everyone (most of those I knew) were heading to the beach, but Paul Roat called and we took off for the Oar House, where really good music was known to pop up.
We were surprised to find Great Southern — some local guys and Dickey Betts on the stage, rocking the house down (very nearly literally).
Tucked in a corner were the wives, Dickey’s wife Paulette, a dead-ringer for Cher, and the Toler wives, Marsha and Debbie, whose husbands, Frankie and Dan, played drums and guitar.
We played pinball in a corner with our boss, Don Moore, owner of a pre-incarnation of The Islander that you’re reading.
Along with owner David Reid, we hoped the building held up, because the place was jammed.
Let me just say … it was awesome.
I’m delighted to know the state plans to recognize Dickey Betts with the renaming of a stretch of U.S. 41 in Sarasota. His song “Ramblin’ Man” made the highway famous.
Now, if they would name the road through Bradenton for Gregg Allman, that would be perfect. If not, maybe we can name a section of Gulf Drive where the Oar House stood for Allman.
“Ramblin’ Man.” “Midnight Rider.” “One Way Out.” “Whipping Post.” “Blue Sky.” And a personal fave, “Stormy Monday” all come to mind.
Meanwhile, according to the internet, rock music dominates Florida’s musical tastes with 58,280 monthly searches, (a little more by month than the weekly landings at The Islander website).
It ranks five times more than country music — at No. 2. Surprise: Electronic/dance music rounds out the top three with 10,877 searches per month.
Until I landed to stay on AMI in 1975, I’d never heard of the Allman Brothers Band. And then Gregg became my neighbor and the Toler wives were already my beach buddies. Those were the days.
But I must step away from the good news to the blues, having learned this week that County Commissioner Carol Ann Felts, 68, died unexpectedly Feb. 24. She earned her District 1 seat with her campaign promise, “Don’t Mess with Myakka.”
Gov. Ron DeSantis will name her successor.
Anyone up for the job?
Until next week. — Bonner Joy
OpinionYour
‘Pop up’ problems
Bravo for bringing attention to the many negative issues associated with the “pop-up” businesses that have invaded the causeway.
I had made several attempts to reach out to various agencies to express my concerns only to be ignored or told that I had contacted the wrong jurisdiction.
Every effort to remove the horses has had no success and seems to have increased the herd.
Connections
Skimming online
Website: islander.org
Facebook: islandernewspaper
Instagram: @theislanderami
News alerts: Register at islander.org
E-edition: Subscribe at islander.org
Archive: ufdc.ufl.edu
Submit news, letters: news@islander.org
Q&A The Islander Poll
MARCH 4, 2026 • Vol. 34, No. 19
▼ 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
Mike Sales
▼ Advertising Sales
Lisa E. hlywa, lisae@islander.org ads@islander.org
▼ Lisa Williams info@, accounting@, classifieds@, subscriptions@islander.org
▼ Distribution
Urbane Bouchet
ross roberts
Judy Loden Wasco
▼ Webmaster
Wayne ansell
Perhaps some action will be taken when there is a pedestrian or inexperienced (personal watercraft) rider killed.
We spring ahead on March 8. how do you feel about daylight saving time?
All others: info@islander.org
Single copies free. Quantities of five or more: 25 cents each. ©1992-2026 WEBSITE: islander.org Text or call: 941-778-7978. Email news@islander.org
There have been too many car crashes already, with no action taken.
Thanks again for your efforts.
Bill Smith, Bradenton
Gulf of …
As a seasonal guest and avid reader, I must mention the incorrect name on The Islander map.
I see it, every time I read it.
I just feel it’s wrong. Even Google GPS changed it.
It’s no longer the Gulf of Mexico body of water, the name was legally changed to Gulf of America.
Wondering why The Islander doesn’t change it. I hope it’s not political.
America stretches over more border than Mexico and takes care of it with security.
Can we get the map changed?
Jenny Holtsberry, Bradenton
Editor’s note: The Islander and most other newspapers follow the Associated Press Stylebook. The Stylebook entry for “Gulf of Mexico, Gulf of America” calls for using Gulf of Mexico. Here is the entry: President Donald Trump has signed an executive order to rename the Gulf of Mexico to the Gulf of America. The body of water has shared borders between the U.S. and Mexico. Trump’s order only carries authority within
A. Love it, and the extra evening light.
B. Hate it, and the disruption to my cycle.
C. Indifferent, it doesn’t really affect me.
D. We should stick with it permanently.
To answer the poll, go to islander.org.
Last week’s question
how many spring training baseball games will you catch?
• None. 61%
• At least a couple.16%
• One. 11%
• As many as possible. 8%
• Have season tickets. 3%
the United States. Mexico, as well as other countries and international bodies, do not have to recognize the name change. The Gulf of Mexico has carried that name for more than 400 years. Refer to it by its original name. If it is relevant to the story, acknowledge and explain the new name Trump has chosen. Per the AP Stylebook, you may also use Gulf or Gulf Coast to describe the body of water along the Louisiana, Texas, Mississippi, Alabama and Florida coasts.
Taking the field
The Pittsburgh Pirates during a spring training game against the royals in 1980 at McKechnie Field in Bradenton.
Looking back
On deck New York Yankees legend Mickey Mantle awaits his bat at McKechnie Field in Bradenton during a spring-training game in the early 1960s.
Islander Photos: courtesy Manatee county Public Library System
10-20-30 years ago
From the Feb. 29, 1996, issue
• Bradenton Beach employees accused Mayor Leroy Arnold of violating their civil rights and failing as a leader, prompting calls for his resignation.
• A groundbreaking for the construction of a pedestrian/bicycle walkover on the humpback bridge on North Bay Boulevard in Anna Maria was delayed because of complications completing paperwork.
• A bakery and coffee house held a grand opening on Bridge Street in Bradenton Beach. The shop promised a genuine “kaffee klatsch” environment.
From the March 1, 2006, issue
a pirate, princess, queen and conquistador walk onto a baseball field.
… In 1977, the DeSoto heritage Festival celebration included the capture of the Pittsburgh Pirates during an exhibition game at McKechnie Field in Bradenton.
• Real estate listings increased about 46.6% in early 2006. At the same time, real estate agents reported slight drops in asking prices.
• Holmes Beach Commissioner Rich Bohnenberger questioned the legality of the island’s three mayors holding a closed session. Bohnenberger said such a meeting violated the state’s Sunshine statute.
• Women golfers at the Key Royale Club in Holmes Beach raised about $2,000 for cancer research and education with the Susan G. Komen for the Cure charity golf tournament.
From the March 2, 2016, issue
• Anna Maria commissioners voted 4-1 to move forward with refurbishing the City Pier. Nancy Yetter voted against the proposal, calling the repairs a Bandaid and favoring reconstruction instead.
• Bradenton Beach commissioners were moving to diminish the mayor’s authority and give more responsibility to city department heads. Mayor Bill Shearon said, “When it crashes and burns, don’t blame me.”
— Lisa Neff
The Islander is archived at www.ufdc.ufl.edu.
Explore the archives
Look for The Islander in the digital newspaper collection at ufdc.ufl.edu
compiled by Lisa Neff, calendar@islander.org
ARTS & ENTERTAINMENT
AMI
Friday, March 6
6 p.m. — Center of Anna Maria Island “The Final Vow” murdermystery dinner, 407 Magnolia Ave., Anna Maria. Fee applies. Info: 941-778-1908.
Saturday, March 7
6 p.m. — Center of Anna Maria Island “The Final Vow” murdermystery dinner, 407 Magnolia Ave., Anna Maria. Fee applies. Info: 941-778-1908. SOLD OUT
ONGOING ON AMI
• Most third Mondays, 1 p.m., Center of Anna Maria Island Book Club, 407 Magnolia Ave., Anna Maria. Info: 941-778-1908, centerami.org.
• Throughout March, Artists’ Guild Gallery exhibit by Candace Bennington, 5414 Marina Drive, Holmes Beach. Info: amiartistsguildgallery.com, 941-778-6694.
Saturday, March 7
10 a.m.-5 p.m. — Village of the Arts WonderWall Mural Fest, 12th Street West and 12th Avenue West, Bradenton. Info: villageofthearts.com.
ONGOING OFF AMI
• March 6-9, “Paranormal Cirque Nightmare!” Ellenton Premium Outlets, 5461 Factory Shops Boulevard, Ellenton. Fee applies. Info: paranormalcirque.com, 941-704-8572.
• First Fridays, 6-9:30 p.m., Village of the Arts’ First Friday 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.
• Through March 19, “Clyde Butcher Lifeworks in Photography,” the Bishop Museum of Science and Nature, 201 10th St. W., Bradenton. Fee applies. Info: 941-746-4131.
• Through April 12, “Ancestral Edge: Abstraction and Symbolism,” The Ringling, 5401 Bay Shore Road, Sarasota. Fee applies except Mondays. Info: 941-359-5700, ringling.org.
• Through April 19, Friday-Sunday, 10 a.m.-3 p.m., “Living History,” De Soto National Memorial, 8300 De Soto Memorial Highway, Bradenton. 941-792-0458.
• Through June, Florida Maritime Museum “Vacationing in Cortez” exhibit, the Bishop Museum of Science and Nature, 201 10th St. W., Bradenton. Fee applies. Info: 941-746-4131.
SAVE THE DATES
• March 12-29, Island Players’ “The Second Time Around,” Anna Maria.
• March 14, De Soto National Memorial’s Food Truck Saturdays, Bradenton.
• March 15, Island Players’ “The Outsider” auditions, Anna Maria.
• March 28, Center of Anna Maria Island Wine Tasting, Anna Maria.
• March 28, Realize Bradenton’s BAM!Fest, Bradenton.
• April 4-5, Coquina Beach Spring Art and Craft Show, Bradenton Beach.
DEVINE DESIGN
Artists’ Guild names
Island happenings
March featured artist
The Artists’ Guild of Anna Maria Island has named Candace Bennington as its featured artist for March, with an opening reception and Night Market scheduled for 5-7:30 p.m. Friday, March 13, at the gallery in Holmes Beach.
Bennington, a fourth-generation artist, began her training in plein air painting in the fishing village of Cortez during the 1970s.
She has worked in watercolors, pastels and oils and most recently expanded into pottery. Her work appears in private collections throughout the United States and Europe.
The Night Market will include a Paint Around experience, in which member artists collaboratively
KIDS & FAMILY
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
• March 15, St. Patrick’s Day Parade, AMI.
• March 20, Center Bingo Night, Anna Maria.
• April 4, Center Easter Egg Hunt, Anna Maria.
• April 24, Center Bingo Night, Anna Maria.
• April 25, De Soto Grand Parade and Block Party, Bradenton.
• May 2, Center Crawfish Boil, Anna Maria.
CLUBS & COMMUNITY
ONGOING ON AMI
• Thursdays through March, 6 p.m., Annie Silver Community Center bingo games, 103 23rd St. N., Bradenton Beach. Info: 513368-6454.
• Most Fridays and Tuesdays, 11:30 a.m., mahjong, Island Library, 5701 Marina Drive, Holmes Beach. Info: 941-778-6341, mymanatee.org.
• Most Fridays, 1 p.m., bridge, Center of Anna Maria Island, 407 Magnolia Ave., Anna Maria. Info: 941-778-3390.
• 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: 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
• March 13, City Block Party, Anna Maria.
• March 14, Paws in Motion Walk-a-thon, Bradenton.
• March 17, Palma Sola Botanical Park Garden Workday, Bradenton.
• March 18, Anna Maria Island Historical Society Heritage Day Celebration, Anna Maria.
• March 21, Roser Church Pancake Breakfast, Anna Maria.
• March 21, Center of Anna Maria Island Beach Cleanup, Anna Maria.
• March 25, Annie Silver Community Dinner, Bradenton Beach.
compiled
by
Lisa Neff
candace Bennington’s “Sunny Day.” Islander courtesy Images create and finish each others paintings. Light refreshments will be served. The gallery is at 5414 Marina Drive. For more information, call 941-778-6694 or go to amiartistsguildgallery.com.
MARKETS & COMMUNITY SALES
ONGOING ON AMI
• Tuesdays, through April, 9 a.m.-2 p.m., Anna Maria Community Farmers Market, Roser Memorial Community Church, 512 Pine Ave., Anna Maria. Info: 941- 778-1908.
• Tuesdays, through season, 10 a.m. until sellout, Anna Maria Island Historical Society Settler’s Bread sales, 402 Pine Ave., Anna Maria. Info: amihs.org, 941-778-0492.
• Tuesdays and Thursdays, 10 a.m.-2 p.m., Shepherd’s Closet Thrift Store at the Episcopal Church of the Annunciation, 4408 Gulf Drive, Holmes Beach. Info: 941-778-1638.
• Most Tuesdays and Thursdays, 9 a.m.-2 p.m., Saturdays, 9 a.m.-noon, Roser Guild Thrift Shop, 511 Pine Ave., Anna Maria. Info: 941-778-0414.
• Most Mondays, Wednesdays, Saturdays, 9 a.m.-1 p.m., Longboat Island Chapel’s Lord’s Warehouse thrift store, 6200 Gulf of Mexico Drive, Longboat Key. Info: 941-383-4738.
• Most Wednesdays, Fridays, Sundays, 10 a.m.-2 p.m., Coquina Beach Market, south Coquina, Bradenton Beach. Info: coquinabeachmarket.org.
OFF AMI
Sunday, March 8
10 a.m.-3 p.m. — Spring Plants and More Sale, Palma Sola Botanical Park, 9800 17th Ave NW, Bradenton. Info: 941-7612866.
ONGOING OFF AMI
• Saturdays through May, 9 a.m.-2 p.m., Bradenton Public Market, Old Main, Bradenton. Info: 941-301-8445.
SAVE THE DATES
• March 13, Night Market in City Center, Holmes Beach.
• March 14, Florida Maritime Museum Nautical Flea Market, Cortez.
• March 21, Manatee Rare Fruit Tree Sale, Lakewood Ranch.
ONGOING
• Through March 23, Pittsburgh Pirates spring training, LECOM Park, 1611 Ninth St. W., Bradenton. Fee applies. Info: 941-7473031.
SAVE THE DATES
• April 2, Bradenton Marauders season begins.
Music Lessons:
Island Players to stage romantic comedy March 12-29
The Island Players will present “The Second Time Around,” a romantic comedy by playwright Henry Denker, March 12-29, at the community theater, 10009 Gulf Drive, Anna Maria.
The production, directed by Preston Boyd, follows Samuel and Laura, two widowed adults who fall in love and choose to live together without marrying — a decision that rattles their grown children.
The play explores family dynamics, independence and second chances with what the company describes as “sharp dialogue, relatable characters and moments of genuine tenderness.”
Curtain Tuesday-Saturday is at 7:30 p.m., doors open at 7 p.m. The Sunday matinee is at 2 p.m.
Tickets are $28 for adults and $18 for students. Tickets are available online at theislandplayers.org, as well as at the box office 9 a.m.-1 p.m. MondaySaturday and an hour before showtimes.
For more information, go to theislandplayers.org or call the box office at 941-778-5755.
CALENDAR cONTINUED FrOM PaGE 8
Kingfish Boat Ramp, 752 Manatee Ave. W., Holmes Beach. Also on the Palma Sola Causeway. Info: manateebeautiful.com, 941-7958272.
OFF AMI
Friday, March 6
6-8 p.m. — Game Night at the NEST, Robinson Preserve, 840 99th St. NW, Bradenton. Info: 941-748-4501, mymanatee.org. Monday, March 9
5:30 p.m. — Tai Chi at the NEST, Robinson Preserve, 840 99th St. NW, Bradenton. Info: 941-748-4501, mymanatee.org.
ONGOING OFF AMI
• Saturdays, 9 a.m., Manatee County Natural Resources Department’s Saturday Mornings at the NEST, Robinson Preserve, 840 99th St. NW, Bradenton. Info: 941-748-4501, mymanatee.org.
CALENDAR NOTES
MARK THE DATES
• March 8, daylight saving time begins.
• March 17, St. Patrick’s Day.
• April 1, April Fool’s Day.
• April 3, Good Friday.
• April 5, Easter.
• April 22, Earth Day.
• May 5, Cinco de Mayo.
• May 10, Mother’s Day.
• May 15, Armed Forces Day.
• May 25, Memorial Day.
• June, Pride Month.
• June 14, Flag Day.
Send listings to calendar@islander.org.
Island happenings
Dickey Betts Memorial Highway gets legislative push
The Florida Legislature in late February advanced a measure to designate honorary highways, including a stretch of U.S. 41 between Blackburn Point Road and North Creek in Sarasota that would be known as Dickey Betts Memorial Highway.
Sarasota County requested the designation, as Betts, a guitarist who cofounded the Allman Brothers Band, lived in Sarasota County and his family has resided in the area since around the mid-1800s.
Why a stretch of U.S. 41?
Consider the first verse of the Allman Brothers’ “Ramblin’ Man,” written by Betts: “Well, my father was a gambler down in Georgia/And he wound up on the wrong end of a gun/And I was born in the backseat of a Greyhound bus/Rollin’ down Highway 41.”
The legislative analysis of the bill creating Dickey Betts Memorial Highway states: Betts was a guitarist, vocalist and co-founder of the legendary Allman Brothers Band, a group that pioneered the Southern rock sound.
Betts, who died in 2024, was a Florida native, born
LBK Paradise Center launches programs for March
The Paradise Center on Longboat Key is expanding its offerings in March, including a men’s discussion group and Iyengar yoga classes.
Common Ground, a men’s group designed to foster connection and mutual support, will hold its first meeting at 10 a.m. Tuesday, March 3. The group will meet the first Tuesday of each month at the center’s location inside the Longboat Island Chapel, 6200 Gulf of Mexico Drive.
Iyengar yoga classes, taught by Deborah Di Carlo, will be Fridays at 11:15 a.m. at $20 per class.
The center also will host a Tai Chi master class Friday, March 6, free memory screenings Thursday, March 26, and a Laughter Wellness lunch-and-learn Friday, March 20. A three-week Nordic Walking series begins Monday, March 16.
For more information, call 941-383-6493 or go to theparadisecenter.org.
compiled by Lisa Neff
a cover for the allman Brothers “ramblin’ Man” single, with “Jessica” on the B side. Islander courtesy Photo
in West Palm Beach, and resided in the Sarasota area for most of his life.
He was no stranger to Anna Maria Island, where Gregg Allman lived during the late 1970s.
In a 2006 story in The Islander, David Reid, who owned the Oar House bar in Bradenton Beach, recalled, “I’d do the bar for the backstage at Van Wezel and the promoters would give them a map to the Oar House. Tom Waits and Leon Redbone both ventured out, and, of course, Dickey Betts, and Dickey’s wife even brought Gregg’s wife out one afternoon. She is known in her own right as Cher.”
Community center planning St. Pat’s Parade
The Center of Anna Maria Island will host its annual St. Patrick’s Day Parade 4-6 p.m. Sunday, March 15, beginning at Holmes Beach City Hall, 5801 Marina Drive.
Participants will line up on Flotilla facing south, then proceed along 58th Street to Marina Drive, Palm Drive, Gulf Drive, Pine Avenue, Tarpon Street and Magnolia Avenue, ending at the Center, 407 Magnolia Ave., Anna Maria.
Sponsors include AMI Dolphin Tours, Duffy’s Tavern and Duncan Real Estate.
Registration to participate in the parade is ongoing at centerami.org.
The center’s phone number is 941-778-1908.
Matt Dyce works the grill for the Toasted Mango cafe, one of the vendors participating in the first Taste of the Island contest, held March 1 during Springfest at city field in holmes Beach.
Islander
typically range from $50,000 to $60,000.
The city manages roughly $165,400 remaining from Tingley’s original bequest, enough to sustain operations for roughly three years if no major repairs are undertaken while the library board oversees an additional $100,000 in investments.
The figures prompted concern about the library’s long-term financial sustainability.
To improve coordination, the city commission last June unanimously appointed Deborah Scaccianoce as their liaison to a reformed library board.
In October 2025, the city hired librarian Stephanie Katz to succeed longtime library clerk Eveann Adams, who retired last year.
Katz reported measurable progress during a Feb. 19 city commission meeting.
The library is now open 10 a.m.-3 p.m. TuesdaySaturday and nearly 1,000 visits have been recorded since the start of the fiscal year, Oct. 1. Patrons have checked out 434 books, while 47 new library cards
have been issued and 45 memberships renewed.
Also, 10 volunteers have contributed nearly 400 service hours.
Additionally, Katz reported 116 books purchased and more than 1,500 books donated, with about onequarter of new titles requested by patrons.
The library has added to its collection, with books for babies and board games, as well as launched an online catalog and calendar system so patrons can place holds, receive due-date reminders and browse inventory.
Two recent outreach events drew 353 attendees and a newly formed book club has welcomed 21 participants.
Mayor John Chappie observed the changes.
“It seems like it has changed its trajectory, big time,” Chappie said Feb. 24. “Stephanie and the board
Cortez Nautical Flea Market
have done an amazing job. It’s revitalized.”
hannah adams, a general manager with Poppo’s Taqueria, shows off one of the first tacos served at Taste of the Island.
Chappie said financial challenges remain and said the city will hold a workshop with the library board to address funding.
Tingley’s descendants were among those attending the Feb. 24 celebration, including Indiana resident Mary Jo Morton, whose grandfather, Harvey Tingley, married Tingley in the mid-1950s.
Morton said her family preserved a handwritten account describing how the couple met on a Florida fishing charter in Bradenton Beach before marrying and wintering on Anna Maria Island.
“She was very strong and very opinionated,” Morton said. “We knew she had started the little library for the snowbirds and the residents in that little, tiny house. So, to see it today, it’s kind of come full circle.”
Tingley board members and guests — Marcelyn harman, left, Susan hollywood, Pam rottschafer, Mary Jo Morton, Mark Morton and librarian Stephanie Katz — gather Feb. 24. Islander
Photo: robert anderson
Photos: Lisa Neff
People arrive Feb. 28 to city field for the first day of Springfest, a two-day arts and crafts show presented by Blue ribbon Events in holmes Beach.
Temps, fishing action heat up as we move into March
By capt. Danny Stasny Islander reporter
Anna Maria Island anglers are chomping at the bit to get out and do some springtime fishing.
And, with a week of temperatures rising into the 80s, this should be possible.
As water temperatures rise and begin to hold at tolerable levels on the flats, you can bet snook will move out of their wintertime haunts and into the shallows in search of a meal.
After all but hibernating through the winter, you can bet that when these fish come out, they’re hungry. That means it’s time to get dialed in on your favorite spots to catch white bait because they are the ticket to catching springtime snook.
Of course, you can probably catch a few on pinfish or even a large shrimp, but shiners are the bait of choice when it comes to targeting snook on the flats.
And don’t forget the spotted seatrout are on the prowl in the shallows, searching for nourishment as they also are hungry after the cold winter.
Springtime trout fishing can be exciting because many catches can be larger fish, creating opportunities to catch a “personal best” trout.
Using artificials this time of year is effective. Topwater plugs like the MirrOlure 84 MR, as well as the Rapala Skitterwalk and the Heddon Top Dog, can be
Pier rebuild continues, cost increases
Tampa Bay Marine employees walk Feb. 24 on top of boards set up so they can traverse the anna Maria city Pier walkway as it is being rebuilt. The contractor is working to cut concrete pilings down to size and link each pair with a brace for pouring a concrete bent. The city commission unanimously voted Feb. 26 to approve a $37,454.56 change work order to pay the contractor to replace two pilings and a connecting bent near the T-end that were initially excluded from the scope of work but were later found to be damaged. Islander Photo: robert anderson
Len Shebosky, visiting aMI from harrisburg, Pennsylvania, shows off a 28-inch redfish he caught and released Feb. 26. he was guided to the fish by capt. Danny Stasny of Just reel Fishing charters.
deadly when targeting large trout in the spring.
Soft plastics on a jighead are another option and can be just as good as the topwater plugs, although there’s just something pleasing about seeing a monster trout explode on a topwater plug. After the angler witnesses it, it is engrained in their mind.
It’s time to start jigging along the beaches because pompano, spotted seatrout, ladyfish, jacks and permit can be found cruising the shorelines in search of a meal. This is a great opportunity for anglers who want success while fishing from shore. Pompano jigs are the lure of choice and dressing them up with a small piece of fresh-cut shrimp adds an advantage.
Take note: the recreational snook harvest opened March 1 with a bag limit of one fish per person per day, and a 28- to 33-inch total length slot. Snook will remain open through April 30 and close for summer to protect stocks.
And the recreational harvest of gray triggerfish also opened March 1 in Gulf waters. Minimum size limit is 15 inches to the fork and the bag limit is one per person. Season closes May 31. For more information visit myfwc.com/marine and click on recreational regulations, reef fish and triggerfish.
On my Just Reel charters, I’m following the sheepshead bite as some water temps are slightly cooler than normal for this time of year. Sheepshead up to 6 pounds are being caught, as well as many 2-3 pounders. Live shrimp on a knocker rig fished around reefs, wrecks and along the beaches are being devoured by these feisty porgies.
While targeting sheepies, plenty of other species are enjoying the offerings of live shrimp. Around the reefs, mangrove snapper, Key West grunts and flounder are being caught.
Along the beaches, catches include pompano, redfish, black drum and trout. While beach fishing, I’m noticing chumming with frozen shrimp is working well to muster up a bite. Once the fish arrive, its game on, especially with the pompano.
Capt. David White is working at the wrecks and reefs in Tampa Bay and the Gulf of Mexico. White says sheepshead, Key West grunts and mangrove snapper are responding to live shrimp when combined with a knocker rig and fished on the bottom. Sheepshead are dominant, and they give quite a fight on medium spinning gear.
Moving into shallower waters along the Gulf beaches, White is finding action for his clients on pompano, black drum and an occasional redfish. All three are responding to live shrimp as bait. He says tipping jigs with fresh-cut pieces of shrimp also is working well, especially for the pompano.
White is fishing afternoons using live shiners as bait to attract the attention of early-season snook.
Capt. Johnny Mattay of Anna Maria Charters is finding good action offshore by bottom fishing over ledges and hard-bottom areas. He says live and frozen baits are working well, especially for red grouper.
Gag grouper are present and are showing a preference for live baits like pinfish.
Targeting snapper is going well for Mattay’s anglers on a variety of catches — mangrove, lane and vermillion. Mattay says live shrimp or small chunks of frozen sardines are luring snapper to the hook.
Moving inshore, Mattay is spending time along the Gulf beaches, which is yielding his anglers a variety of species on live shrimp as bait. Black drum, redfish and whiting are all in the mix, depending on location. Mattay also is finding consistent action on sheepshead around reefs and wrecks.
Send high-resolution photos and fishing reports to fish@islander.org.
Community court day
Players gather Feb. 21 at the third annual pickleball tournament held at the Westbay Point/Shell Point condo communities in holmes Beach. Thirty-two players took eight courts for what was described as “a fun, community building event.” Nancy herman placed first for the women and Brett Kehl placed first for the men. Islander Photo: courtesy Jan McFadden
Stasny
Anna Maria Elementary PTO seeks
gala donations
The Anna Maria Elementary Parent Teacher Organization is calling on local businesses and community members to support its annual spring fundraiser by donating items and experiences for live and silent auctions at the Spring Gala.
The event, scheduled for Saturday, April 18, at the Center at Anna Maria Island in Anna Maria, will raise funds to support programs and activities for students at the island school.
The PTO is seeking a variety of donations that will be auctioned throughout the evening.
Organizers outlined several donation categories to accommodate a variety of contributions.
Class party or experience donations could include ice cream parties delivered to school, meals for approximately 20 students, activities at local businesses or beach day setups for student groups.
The PTO also is interested in experiences that cannot typically be purchased, such as behind-thescenes tours or classes at island businesses.
Service-based donations are welcome as well, including boat tours, house rentals, salon services, consultation services.
Gift certificates and items for gift baskets round out the list of suggested contributions.
For more information, go to amepto.org or call AME at 941-708-5525.
Back to School? Time for a checkup! KIDS arE WELcOME!
Jamie Lawson O.D., Kenneth Lawson O.D. 5632 26th St. W., Bradenton 941.751.4668, BayshoreEyeCare.net
Kindergarten Roundup set
Anna Maria Elementary School is inviting prospective students and their families to get a first look at campus life this spring.
The school will hold its annual Kindergarten Roundup 5-6:30 p.m. Wednesday, March 11.
Families are asked to gather in the AME auditorium at 5 p.m. for a welcome from the principal, Dr. Katie Fradley, after which attendees will break into small groups for a guided campus tour featuring hands-on activities led by school staff.
Parents are encouraged to attend with their children.
AME is at 4700 Gulf Drive, Holmes Beach.
To RSVP, call the AME front desk at 941-7085525, ext. 0.
K-Kids campaign
The K-Kids group, sponsored by the Kiwanis club of anna Maria Island, celebrates raising $382 for the humane Society of Manatee county. a school notice on social media read, “We are so proud of our students for giving back and showing compassion for animals in our community. Way to make a difference!” Islander courtesy Photo
Spring break ahead
The School District of Manatee County will go on spring break Monday-Friday, March 16-20.
The break will be extended by a records day, which is Monday, March 23.
Also, elementary schools will have an early release Friday, March 13.
AMI student makes dean’s list
A Holmes Beach student wrapped up the fall semester with academic distinction at one of the country’s top research universities.
Colin Cooper of Holmes Beach was named to the dean’s list at Tufts University for the fall 2025 semester. The honor requires a semester GPA of 3.4 or higher.
School honors
Send notices of school achievements and honors to news@islander.org.
No.
Gathering
By Lisa Neff
Ditchfield Singers to perform
The Ditchfield Family Singers will bring their signature close harmony and a cappella stylings to Christ Church of Longboat Key, 6400 Gulf of Mexico Drive, on Sunday, March 8.
The concert will begin at 2 p.m.
Known nationally for their versatility, the family vocal group performs a wide range of musical genres, from Broadway and barbershop to doo-wop, standards and patriotic and inspirational favorites.
Christ Church is at 6400 Gulf of Mexico Drive, Longboat Key.
For more information, call the church at 941-3838833.
St. Mary’s Guild to host sale
The St. Mary, Star of the Sea Women’s Guild will hold its 18th annual Royal Rummage Sale March 6-7 at the Catholic church on Longboat Key.
An early bird sale will run 11 a.m.-3 p.m. Friday, March 6, with a $5 admission fee.
The regular sale follows 9 a.m.-noon Saturday, March 7, with free admission.
The sale will be held in the Father Edward Pick Hall at 4280 Gulf of Mexico Drive, Longboat Key.
For more information, call the church at 941-3831255.
Roser offers scholarships
The Roser Women’s Guild is offering scholarships for the 2026-27 school year using proceeds from the Roser Thrift Store.
The deadline for applications is Friday, May 1.
Per semester, $500 will be awarded to students enrolling in 6-11 credit hours of undergraduate courses and $1,000 per semester will be awarded to full-time students.
The scholarship will be limited to $2,000 per year and be available for up to four years.
For more information, go to roserchurch.com or call 941-778-0414.
GoodDeeds
Kiwanis to meet
The Kiwanis Club of Anna Maria Island is gathering most weeks at 8:30 a.m. Saturdays at Bradenton Beach City Hall, 107 Gulf Drive N.
The club will hear from Tim Boyd of Guardian Angels March 7, Krista Carpenter of Wildlife Inc. March 21 and a representative from Manatee Children’s Services March 28, as well as prepare for the annual sunrise service at the Manatee Public Beach on Easter Sunday, April 5.
For more information, call Sandy Haas-Martens at 941-730-0016.
AMIHS offers scholarship
Students with ties to Anna Maria Island have until the end of March to apply for a scholarship that has distributed more than $65,000 since its founding.
The Anna Maria Island Historical Society is accepting applications for its 2026-27 scholarship, which awards $2,000 to a qualifying island student or who works at an island business.
The program, established in 1998 and named for AMIHS co-founder Pat Copeland, is funded through the sale of the society’s Settler’s Bread. The application deadline is March 31.
Forms are available through guidance offices, the AMIHS museum at 402 Pine Ave., Anna Maria, and at amihs.org/more.
Styling at the club a model shows a style Feb. 25, during the anna Maria Island Garden club’s fashion show and luncheon, “75 Years in Bloom—a Diamond celebration,” at IMG academy Golf club in Bradenton. Proceeds support the garden club’s island beautification efforts. Islander Photo: Photography by Lisa E
For kids’ comfort
Sandy haas-Martens and Darrel Shinn of the Kiwanis club of anna Maria Island Foundation present $500 to Savanah Byers of the Island Library for the children’s section. The funds were to purchase 18 cushions for children’s storytime and four life-size stuffed animals. Islander courtesy Photo
Assistance sought on AMI
• Anna Maria Island Garden Club seeks sponsors for its Anna Maria Island Historical Society Park rejuvenation and Holmes Beach beach access beautification projects. Info: 941-224-1761.
• All Island Denominations accepts financial donations at P.O. Box 814, Anna Maria, FL 34216. Info: 941-778-0414.
• Anna Maria Island Historical Society, 402 Pine Ave., Anna Maria, seeks volunteers. Info: 608-4440084.
Email listings to lisa@islander.org.
