The Islander Newspaper E-Edition: Wednesday, April 2, 2025

HB may extend 180-day deadline for nonconforming rebuilds

By Ryan Paice Islander Reporter

The deadline to rebuild some stormdamaged nonconforming structures in Holmes Beach is April 9.

But nonconforming property owners might get overtime.

Director of development services Chad Minor presented to city commissioners March 25 a draft ordinance that would more than double the municipality’s 180-day deadline to rebuild nonconforming properties.

City code currently requires a property owner to secure a building permit and begin reconstruction of a nonconforming property within 180 days of damage in order to restore the original nonconforming condition.

It also prohibits the renewal or reestablishment of a nonconforming use if such a use is discontinued for 180 consecutive days.

Minor said the 180-day time frame resulted in a “rapidly approaching” April 9 deadline for rebuilding nonconforming structures damaged or destroyed by

last year’s storms.

He called the deadline “unrealistic” for many property owners due to a litany of roadblocks that must be cleared before reconstruction of a nonconforming property can begin or even secure permitting.

The proposed ordinance would extend the deadline for reconstruction of nonconforming properties and discontinuation of nonconforming uses to 365 days.

Nonconforming properties are those that do not meet current building and zoning requirements, but were built legally under previous codes. Due to their nonconformities, the properties face additional restrictions, such as the timeline for rebuilding without conforming to current code.

Minor said such a change would benefit a “tremendous” number of property owners in the city.

“Six months, we found is that some people are able to do it, but most are not,” he said. “People are just still trying to figure out what they want to do and

Still reeling in tourists

People visit the site of the Rod & Reel Pier in Anna Maria March 18. The pier’s boardwalk was damaged by Hurricane Helene last September and much of the pier’s remains — the T-end and the restaurant — were blown into Tampa Bay by Hurricane Milton in October. An intent to rebuild the landmark, 875 N. Shore Drive, was announced after Milton but for now it’s the remains of the old Rod & Reel that attracts tourists. Islander

Photo: Lisa Neff

this allows them a little more flexibility.”

The draft ordinance would streamline the process to request one 180-day extension, which Minor called “burden-

some and unnecessary” in a March 18 memorandum accompanying the draft ordinance.

The current process requires a

Customers, employees and proprietor Bruce Shearer gather March 28 at Annie’s Bait & Tackle in Cortez one last time before the property is demolished by Manatee County, the owner since December 2024. The demo date is not yet set. Islander

Robert Anderson

Cal Broek of Michigan holds up a winning card during the March 27 bingo night at the Annie Silver Community Center, 103 23rd St. N., Bradenton Beach. Islander

The Best News on Anna Maria Island Since 1992

A cottage at 3020 Ave. F, Holmes Beach, was a nonconforming structure that the owners hope will benefit from the 180-day deadline extension to submit plans and begin the rebuild process. Islander Photo: Courtesy Pete Dospel

A drone hovers above Tampa Bay March 21 for a bird’s eye view of the remains of the Rod & Reel Pier on the waterfront in Anna Maria. Islander Photo: Jacob Merrifield

Photo: Robert Anderson

Photo:

AM marks accomplishments, HB attends AME career day

Anna Maria Mayor Mark Short responded March 28 to The Islander call for city news, saying, “It was another week full of miscellaneous accomplishments focused on repairs post-hurricanes.”

Short said almost all the city’s public beach access paths were cleared and cleaned up and several have benches so people can “sit and enjoy either the sunrise or sunset.”

Short announced a Memorial Day recognition event, a tradition in the city, will be held in the gymnasium at the Center of Anna Maria Island, 407 Magnolia Ave., Anna Maria, beginning at 10 a.m. Monday, May 26. In the past, the event was held at City Pier Park, but the park currently is in use by the U.S. Postal Ser-

vice, which is operating the Anna Maria Post Office from a trailer.

Short finalized his remarks with a response to the Executive Office of the Governor regarding a letter sent to local officials by an established EOG DOGE Team March 18 requesting a response to certain financial matters.

Short said he told the DOGE team and governor: “I confirm that the City of Anna Maria has not encountered any conditions of financial emergency or distress, including those listed in section 218.503(1), Florida Statutes since State Fiscal Year 2018-2019, nor does the City of Anna Maria anticipate potential financial distress in the next six months.”

Attached to this report at islander.org is a copy of Short’s response to the request.

Holmes Beach Mayor Judy Titsworth reported by text March 27 that she, city director of development services Chad Minor, building department administrator Kim Cherron and police Chief Bill Tokajer attended a career day event at Anna Maria Elementary.

Titsworth said they discussed careers such as mayor and law enforcement, building and code compliance jobs and others, with students.

“They were great kids. They asked lots of great questions,” she said.

She added, “It’s always fun to see my grandkids and nephews when I show up at school.”

— Bonner Joy

Planners recommend reversing wetlands amendment

From the Bradenton Times

The Manatee County Planning Commission voted unanimously March 27 to recommend reversing an amendment to the wetland protection policy.

The recommendation will go to the county commission.

In October 2023, county commissioners voted 5-1 in favor of effectively eliminating the county’s wetland protection policies and deferring to the bare minimum required by the state.

Seemingly unable to convince staff to make such a recommendation — even though it was advertised as a staff-initiated change — the county used an outside “consultant” who had no expertise in wetlands and had previously been on the losing side of a legal challenge to the county’s policy to make the recommendation.

The action revised the county’s comprehensive plan, rolling back the 30- and 50-foot buffer requirements around wetlands to state a minimum of 25 feet on average with a 15-foot minimum, or, in some select instances, potentially no required buffers.

The issue was central to the 2024 election, with

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each member facing reelection who had supported the policy being defeated. The new board quickly moved to reverse the policy, with two commissioners who had previously supported the amendment — Jason Bearden and Amanda Ballard — rethinking their positions.

Planning Commissioner Matt Bower made the motion to recommend the reversal, which was seconded by Alyssa Gay.

The planner’s motion passed 4-0 and will go to the county commission.

Editor’s note: The report, published with permission, appeared first at thebradentontimes.com. The Bradenton Times is a digital publication founded in 2008 by former County Commissioner Joe McClash.

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 your story with contact information to news@islander.org.

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Titsworth

Holmes Beach Police Chief Bill Tokajer talks to a third-grade class at AME about careers in law enforcement. islander Photo: Courtesy HBPD

Kiwanis planning sunrise service

The Kiwanis Club of Anna Maria island, which meets Saturday mornings in Bradenton Beach, is planning the annual Easter Sunrise Service on the beach. The service includes many of the island churches, music and a shared collection at Manatee Public Beach in Holmes Beach. Easter will be celebrated Sunday, April 20.

request to be sent via letter to the building official, then go before the city commission for consideration within the original 180-day time frame.

The streamlined process would require a written request to be submitted to the building official within five days of the expiration of the 365-day time frame. It would be handled at an administrative level and not require commission approval.

At that point, “the building official shall, within a reasonable time, determine if there is justifiable cause for the extension,” according to the proposed language.

Pete Dospel, owner of Dospel Construction and co-owner of BlueWave Restorations, told The Islander March 27 the proposed changes are “fairer” to property owners.

He said a client owns property at 3020 Ave. F, where a nonconforming cottage was lifted off its foundation and destroyed during last year’s storms.

Dospel said despite working diligently to get the reconstruction process moving, they would not be able to start by April 9.

“Due to the fact that they’ve been dealing with insurance, there was no way that within six months that they could get into the permitting with all the surveys, engineering and (Florida Department of Environmental Protection) permitting,” he said.

Dospel said his client is one of many property owners on the island dealing with similar struggles.

During discussion at the March 25 work session, Commissioner Carol Soustek supported the proposed changes.

“I applaud this because I’m in this situation. It’s six months and I’m not back and I have been diligently trying,” she said. “I applaud what we’ve done as far as trying to help the constituents rather than impede them. I think the city has tried to offer them avenues to make their life better and this is one of them.”

“I think this is a necessity,” Commissioner Terry Schaefer said. “I think we all understand that the whole delay is attributable to the widespread nature of this storm.”

City commissioners will hold a first reading for the draft ordinance at their next meeting at 2 p.m. Tuesday, April 8, at city hall, 5801 Marina Drive.

Petitioners propose ‘Gulf of America Drive’ on AMI

The island’s three city commissions were set to vote April 1 on petitions to hold a November referendum on changing the name of Gulf Drive to “Gulf of America Drive.”

The commission votes, set to take place after The Islander went to press, were in response to petitions submitted by Make Anna Maria Island Great Again.

MAMIGA, which kept the petition drive low key and sought voter signatures at a few select island businesses, issued this statement: “As the Gulf of America graces the west shore of Anna Maria Island, it is fitting and appropriate for our great Island to come together and commemorate this momentous time and name the main north-south thoroughfare Gulf of America Drive.”

MAMIGA, in a news release, also called on the commissions to conduct an islandwide survey of place names.

“I don’t know about ‘Los Cedros Drive’ in Anna Maria,” said MAMIGA chair Joe King. “Isn’t that someplace in Ecuador? And Jacaranda just sounds un-American.”

Asked for comments on the ballot drive, the island mayors issued a joint statement to The Islander: “LOL. Gulf of America Drive. Happy April Fools’ Day.”

Editor’s note: And happy April Fools’ Day to you from The Islander. None of this is real.

Q&A The Islander poll

This week’s question

What bridge do you use most for AMi travel?

A. Anna Maria Island Bridge.

B. Cortez Bridge.

C. Longboat Pass Bridge.

D. Humpback Bridge.

To answer the poll and see poll results, go online to islander. org.

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Easter 2023. islander Photo: Jacob Merrifield

The longboat Pass jetty at the south end of Coquina Beach will undergo rehabilitation as part of a Manatee County erosion control project. islander

Photo: robert Anderson

County approves shore-based projects

By robert Anderson islander reporter

The Manatee County Board of County Commissioners voted unanimously March 25 to accept state funding for shore-based projects benefiting south Anna Maria Island.

The 7-0 vote directs funds from the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission and the Florida Department of Environmental Protection to nearshore artificial reefs and beach renourishment.

A county projects report shared with The Islander March 27 by Commissioner Tal Siddique, R-District 3, outlines planned improvements, including:

• Nearshore breakwaters at Coquina Beach;

• A mitigation boulder reef;

• A recreational snorkel reef;

• The rehabilitation of the Longboat Pass jetty.

The artificial reef projects, funded in part with $60,000 from the FWC, involves construction of a 2-acre mitigation boulder reef and a nearshore limestone, recreational reef off Coquina Beach.

Artificial reefs support marine biodiversity by creating habitats for fish, coral and other aquatic life. They also enhance recreational opportunities and contribute to long-term ecological sustainability.

The commission also approved $375,000 from the DEP for erosion control at Coquina Beach. The project involves removing deteriorating concrete groins and constructing four offshore breakwaters.

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Breakwaters help reduce the intensity of wave action in inshore waters, protecting the shoreline from erosion and maintaining a stable, gently sloping beach.

Another component of the plan is the rehabilitation of the Longboat Pass jetty. The project aims to stabilize the southern end of Coquina Beach by retaining the sand updrift at the jetty and reducing shoaling in the inlet.

The rehabilitation will include installation of a sheet pile retaining wall to reinforce the jetty.

Additionally, crews will reconstruct the stormdamaged seaward end of the jetty using limestone boulders.

Beach erosion control became a priority for Manatee County following hurricanes Helene and Milton last fall. In particular, flooding from Helene caused extensive erosion in Bradenton Beach, washing away significant portions of the shoreline and increasing the risk of future storm surge-related flooding.

While the commission’s approval secures funding to advance planning and implementation, specific allocations and timelines for each project remain undecided.

“They’re technically decided upon and in our capital improvement plan,” Siddique said. “The funding is not fully lined up yet.”

AM changes P&Z rules

A workaround has been found for the lack of public participation on the Anna Maria Planning and Zoning Board.

City commissioners unanimously voted March 27 to adopt an ordinance that allows the appointment of historic preservation board members as ex officio P&Z members that count toward quorums.

The P&Z is an advisory board to the commission that reviews proposed ordinances, variances and special exception requests for compliance with municipal code.

The P&Z allows up to five regular members and two alternates but currently consists of only four members.

City attorney Becky Vose said the municipality has had trouble filling the P&Z and under state law it could allow preservation board members to participate as ex officio members.

The adopted ordinance allows the mayor to nominate those ex officio members from the preservation board for appointment to the P&Z.

The nominations must then be approved by city commission vote.

The removal of ex officio members also requires a majority vote from the city commission.

ryan Paice

—

introduces himself March 25 to HB commissioners as a planning commission applicant.

HB reloads planning board

& Consigned

Roadwatch

By lisa Neff

Eyes on the road

Cortez Bridge utility relocation project: State Road 684/Cortez Road. The Manatee County Public Works Department is relocating a water main and force main Intracoastal crossing. The work requires shoulder, sidewalk and bike lane closures in the area, as well as road detours and flagging operations. For more, contact community outreach representative Tina Allen

6908 Manatee Ave. W. Bradenton 941.795.4285

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The Holmes Beach Planning Commission is whole again.

City commissioners unanimously voted March 25 to appoint the planning commission’s first alternate, James Harrison, as a full member to succeed Steven Oelfke, who resigned in February to serve on the city commission.

Harrison and Joseph Ireland, the planning commission’s second alternate member, expressed interest in becoming a full member.

Commissioners moved Ireland into the first alternate position.

Their terms will expire July 1, 2026.

Additionally, two residents applied to serve on the planning commission: Thomas Costantini and Steven Hebden.

Commissioner Carol Soustek nominated Costantini as the second alternate member since he’d lived in the city for five years compared to Hebden’s four.

Commissioner Terry Schaefer nominated Hebden for second alternate.

Commissioners voted 3-2 in favor of Costantini, whose term will expire July 1, 2027.

The planning commission will meet at 3:30 p.m. Wednesday, April 9, at city hall, 5801 Marina Drive. — ryan Paice

Thomas Costantini

islander

Photo: HBPD/Chief Bill Tokajer

Pines residents question parking lot shift to paid parking

By robert Anderson islander reporter

Residents of the Pines Trailer Park in Bradenton Beach allege unlawful changes to their community’s parking lot by the property owners.

Established in the 1930s, the park, 103 Church Ave., is a fixture in Bradenton Beach, known for its garden-lined streets and tight-knit community on Sarasota Bay.

Pines resident Elayne Armaniaco, at a March 20 city commission meeting, objected to the conversion of the park’s parking lot from private use for residents to paid public parking.

She said her search of city records revealed no permit or approval for a paid lot at 205 First St. N.

Streetlife

Island police reports

Anna Maria

No new reports

The Manatee County Sheriff’s Office polices Anna Maria.

Bradenton Beach

No new reports

The Bradenton Beach Police Department polices

Bradenton Beach.

Cortez

March 23, 7000 block of 45th Avenue West, larceny. A Manatee County sheriff’s deputy responded to a call concerning the theft of a bicycle. The caller someone stole a bicycle overnight from a stairwell. An incident report was filed.

The MCSO polices Cortez.

Holmes Beach

March 19, Manatee Public Beach, 4000 Gulf Drive, battery. Two Holmes Beach police officers responded to reports of battery. A complainant said he was recording himself on the beach when another man aggressively approached, yelled at him and punched him in the head. The complainant called the police but the man fled on foot. The complainant had video evidence. Manatee County Emergency Medical Services evaluated him and he declined further treatment.

March 20, 6300 block of Marina Way, assisting EMS. An HBPD officer responded to assist EMS with a bicycle accident that resulted in a head injury. The officer found a woman sitting on the ground and bleeding from her forehead, hands and left knee. She said she was riding an electric bicycle on a sidewalk when she crashed and hit her head on a tree root. EMS evaluated the woman and offered transport to a hospitalbut she declined.

The Holmes Beach Police Department polices Holmes Beach.

Streetlife is based on incident reports and narratives from the BBPD, HBPD and MCSO.

—

By robert Anderson and ryan Paice

“Forty-plus people used that parking lot because they did not have a designated parking space for their homes,” Armaniaco told commissioners. “If this was approved, your approval took away their ability to park. Why did some people not come back and rebuild (after the hurricanes)? Because they didn’t have a place to park.”

Pines Park Investors LLC, managed by developer Shawn Kaleta, purchased the park from the Jackson Partnership LLLP in 2023 for $16.2 million.

Under prior ownership, the parking lot was free for residents. However, after the sale, residents received a letter stating they had to purchase parking leases to continue using the lot. Annual parking leases were priced at $750.

After hurricanes Helene and Milton struck the island last fall, the lot was used as a staging area for storm debris, and in November was remodeled into a paid public parking facility, residents said.

In a March 25 interview with The Islander, Armaniaco said changes came rapidly following the sale.

“Imagine you buy a trailer. It doesn’t have a parking space but they say it comes with a parking space in that lot,” she said. “That’s how it went down for years (before the sale).”

Armaniaco said more than half of the residents relied on the First Street lot for parking.

Ryan Pfahler, who owns and leases multiple units, also expressed concern.

“Even before the hurricanes, we kept hearing rumors about the parking lot,” Pfahler said March 26. “We had three trailers, and none had a parking spot next to them. That (vacant lot) was our designated spot but when Pines Park LLC bought the park, it immediately became a pay-for system.”

Pfahler said he purchased two parking leases but was unable to park in the paid parking facility.

Pines residents also pay a land lease to Pines Park Investors for mobile home sites. The parking lot con-

version heightened tensions between homeowners and management. Then, in January, homeowners were informed of the park’s impending closure.

The Islander reached out to the city building department March 26 and permit technician Annabre Veal said the city had no permit on file for the lot.

“At this time, code enforcement and the building official are working together diligently to ensure proper operation or closure of the paid parking lot,” Veal wrote in an email.

The Islander reached out to city building official Bill Palmer by email March 27 but as of press time March 31, no reply was received.

During the March 20 city commission meeting, city attorney Ricinda Perry said the lot “was never specifically tied to the M1 zoning or the usage for the trailers. As it was historically always used as parking, that property could continue as parking. It did not have to accommodate any of the Pines residents.”

Perry said the previous park owners had granted parking access to residents as a courtesy.

She added that the parking lot is zoned C-1 commercial and is separate from the M-1 mobile home park designation, meaning no application or permit is required based on its historical use.

However, under M-1 or mobile home zoning, the Pines must maintain adequate parking for residents. And according to residents, the lot was used to comply with the zoning requirements for parking.

The city land development code for M-1 states, “The maximum number of mobile home lots shall not exceed 86 lots.” It continues, “Each mobile home shall be assigned one parking space.”

Commissioner Deborah Scaccianoce has asked Perry to research city regulations to see if any relief could be given to Pines residents.

The Islander reached out to representatives of Pines Park LLC. March 26 but as of Islander press time no reply was received.

Kaleta apologizes to police, enters probation

By ryan Paice islander reporter

After almost two years and one apology letter, a pair of criminal charges against island developer Shawn Kaleta have been resolved.

Judge Jacqueline Steele of the 12th Circuit Court ruled March 20 to withhold adjudication against Kaleta for a second-degree misdemeanor charge for alcoholrelated reckless driving.

Kaleta was arrested in June 2023 in Holmes Beach and charged with a first-degree misdemeanor for resisting/obstructing a law enforcement officer without violence and a second-degree misdemeanor for DUI.

The real estate mogul entered into a Driver Enhanced Treatment Education Rehabilitation contract with the state that specified completion of the rehabilitation program would result in dismissal of the first-degree misdemeanor charge and amendment of

the DUI charge to an alcohol-related reckless driving charge.

The deal stipulated that Kaleta submit an apology letter to arresting HBPD Officer Andrew Adkins.

Kaleta submitted his apology ahead of the March 20 court hearing, in which he stated his “sincere regret” for his actions.

“It was never my intention to create a diffi cult situation, and I regret that the circumstances required your intervention. This experience has been a valuable lesson for me, and I am committed to making responsible choices moving forward,” the letter reads.

Due to participation in the DETER program, the fi rst-degree misdemeanor charge was dropped, the second-degree misdemeanor charge was amended and Steele withheld adjudication against Kaleta.

Kaleta was sentenced to complete 12 months of probation.

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All fired up …

I hope you read the story on page 3 this week and got all fired up.

How dare the city officials on Anna Maria Island even give credence to the petition from Make AMI Great Again to change the name of Gulf Drive to Gulf of America Drive on its full route on AMI.

I hope you got riled up and called friends to voice your objections. I hope you posted and aired your grievances on every manner of social media.

Make your voice heard!

But wait … did you read to the end?

Or did you just react?

I’m pretty sure many of The Islander readers feel much like I do, that we have enough changes to cope with in all three cities and some things just need to stay the same.

If you’ve been here long enough to recall back to when there were no traffic lights on AMI, you know that many people objected to lighted signals at busy intersections when they were first proposed. They claimed lighted signals would hold up traffic and worsen the slow stop-and-go drive through the cities.

There were plenty of people in the 1970s who objected to high-rise buildings and got their way. After seeing the scale of the six-story Martinique condo on the beach, officials in all three cities reacted and banned buildings — commercial and residential — that exceed 36 feet (give or take based on which city you’re talking about).

So sometimes raising a fuss can pay off.

I’d like to think that changing the name of Gulf Drive to Gulf of America Drive is one of those things we could fight and win.

It’s so absurd, it sounds true.

And that’s why Lisa Neff wrote the Gulf Drive spoof this week — to tap into April Fool’s Day and your sense of humor, as she has done for many years on the salt-in-the-sugar bowl holiday.

This year, one of our staff read the headline and the lede for Lisa’s spoof and got irate over the idea of changing the name of the road.

And it was very satisfying to know the prospect of the spoof working on readers would bring laughter around the breakfast table at Ginny’s, to the lunchroom at three city halls, to the beer-and-burger bars and across social media.

So finish reading the story.

And never mind the ski-lift gondola rides to the island from the mainland, the Ferris wheel on the public beach pier or the ferry hub on Key Royale.

I think we “gotcha,” so have a good laugh. — Bonner Joy, news@islander.org

Murphy

Scars

Islanders have been living in a shadow for the past months, the shadow of Helene.

Nothing has come easy.

Climbing out from under Helene has been an ordeal. It

left a mark on everyone who lived it.

Jokesters remark after someone bangs their head on a pole, “Ouch. That’ll leave a mark.”

The storm has left a mark.

The Helene mark may not be physical, but it is there. Ask a survivor, “How are you doing?”

I taught Ben a quote I thought would do the trick.

“A man is the sum of his scars.”

We repeated it together until he had it.

His “R’s” at the time were a kind Boston “R”. Thus, “A man is the sum of his “scaws.”

He was cuter than shit. My plot had to work.

At home we sat on the steps and practiced a couple of times. “A man is the sum of his scaws.”

He went in.

I waited outside, listening through the open door. I heard his mom: “Ben, what happened to your chin?”

▼ 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

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There is a fleeting, pained look, then a wry smile.

The “mark” is something to be proud of.

Years ago, I had an amazing day with my son, Ben.

All others: news@islander.org

It was one of those perfect beach days, breezy with a rolling surf.

Ben was only 4, but I decided I would teach him how to surf — and I knew nothing about surfing.

I stood in shallow water holding Ben on the board until the wave broke, and then pushed him through the after-break toward the shore. The last time we tried it, he tumbled off the board.

I lost sight of him for five of the worst seconds of my life.

Finally, I saw his black curls swirling in the waves, grabbed them and pulled him up, sputtering.

He was fine — much better than I was. But he had a small cut on his chin where he had hit the coarse shell on the bottom.

We could not go straight home. That cut was proof of my stupidity.

I stalled for time.

We went where all the surfers went — Duffy’s. When the surfers saw his cut, they lauded a young hero.

“Yay, Ben. You are a real surfer now.”

He beamed through his burger and kicked his feet happily under his chair.

But I still needed a plan to get past his mom.

Ben: “A man is the sum of his scaws.”

His mom: harsher, sharper, colder, “Where’s your father?!”

Ben got a Band-Aid, hugs and a Popsicle.

I got the “You’re an idiot” look.

Ben was speaking simple truth that day.

A man or woman really is the sum of their scars. Some of us have earned our hurricane scar.

Wear it proudly.

Respect it when you see it.

— Sean Murphy

Sean Murphy is proprietor of the Doctor’s Office and the Doctor’s Garden, a craft cocktail bar with fine dining in an intimate setting in Holmes Beach as well as an outdoor “garden” with dining and entertainment — when weather permits.

Letters to the editor

The Islander welcomes your opinion letters

Please, submit your opinion with name, address and contact phone number to news@islander.org. Only your name and city are published.

Letters may be edited for space and style. There is a 250-word limit and anonymous letters will not be published.

Collecting the mail

ABOVE lEFT: An early Anna Maria Post Office. The photo in the library archives is not dated. There also is no information about the location. riGHT: People gather in Anna Maria alongside Gulf Drive for the dedication of a U.S. Post Office. The photo is dated December 1955. islander Photos: Manatee County Public library archives

Connections on AMI

Anna Maria: Mayor Mark Short, 941-708-6130, ammayor@cityofannamaria.com.

Bradenton Beach : Mayor John Chappie, 941778-1005, mayor@cityofbradentonbeach.com.

Holmes Beach: Mayor Judy Titsworth, 941-7085800, hbmayor@holmesbeachfl.org.

The exterior of the post office in Anna Maria, which was in the 9900 block of Gulf Drive from the mid-1950s until the late 1990s, according to the library archives. This photo is dated December 1998.

Skimming online

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Yes, we’re

back!

BEST MARKET ON AMI

We’re still aiming for recovery for all homes and businesses on AMI — but for some, it’s still a long way off. Please, help your neighbors and shop and dine local! — The Islander

10-20-30 years ago

From the March 30, 1995, issue

• The U.S. Coast Guard assessed damage to the Bradenton Beach fishing pier after a boat rammed a piling. Two men suffered injuries. One of the boaters was rescued from Sarasota Bay by a resident.

• Save Anna Maria Inc. launched a fundraising campaign for its effort against fixed, high bridges on the island. SAM was selling 496 shares at $10 each, an amount determined by breaking the Anna Maria Island Bridge into 496 “parcels.”

From the March 30, 2005, issue

• Fog blanketed the island and obscured a sunrise but thousands still gathered on the shore in Holmes Beach for the annual Easter Sunrise Service presented by the Kiwanis Club of Anna Maria Island.

• The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers announced plans to begin a beach renourishment project in midMay. The renourishment was to replace sand lost to four storms in 2004.

• High winds caused damage on Anna Maria Island, including the destruction of a parking garage at the Martinique condominiums in Holmes Beach.

From the April 1, 2015, issue

• The Islander reported: Filmmakers Sam Hardy and Heather Harr teamed up in Kansas City, Missouri, to create Hardy-Harr Productions and would be turning their cameras on officials in Anna Maria, Bradenton Beach and Holmes Beach. Hardy and Harr, known for their work on the reality TV circuit, were planning a show. But wait … This was The Islander’s April Fools’ Day issue.

• Traffic planners and elected officials discussed an idea intended to impact traffic. They proposed reducing the number of drawbridges openings. No fooling.

— lisa Neff

Interested in Learning a New Skill?

Take a hands-on class to explore traditional folk art and maritime skills like how to create mosaics, dye fabrics with indigo, paint with a fish, and so much more!

Most classes are intended for adult learners Class prices vary Register at FloridaMaritimeMuseum.org ost

Compiled by lisa Neff, calendar@islander.org

ARTS & ENTERTAINMENT ON AMI

Saturday, April 5

7 p.m. — The Infamous Stringdusters concert, Center of Anna Maria Island, 407 Magnolia Ave., Anna Maria. Fee applies. Info: 941-778-1908.

ONGOING ON AMI

• Throughout April, Artists’ Guild of Anna Maria Island exhibits work by folded-book artist Jennifer Sharp, Artists’ Guild Gallery, 5414 Marina Drive, Holmes Beach. Info: 941-778-6694.

OFF AMI

Saturday, April 5

11 a.m.-9 p.m. — Bam!Fest/Bradenton Art and Music Festival, Riverwalk, downtown Bradenton. Info: realizebradenton.com.

ONGOING OFF AMI

• Fridays through April, 7-10 p.m., Sunset Series music, Palmetto Marriott Resort and Spa, 600 U.S. Highway 41, Palmetto. Fee applies. Info: 941-304-3265.

• 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.

• Second Saturdays, 10:30 a.m., Island Gallery and Studios art demo, 456 Old Main St., Bradenton. Info: 941-778-6648.

• Last Saturdays, 10:30 am., Island Gallery and Studios critique corner, 456 Old Main St., Bradenton. Info: 941-778-6648.

• Through April, Island Gallery and Studios presents “Sensational Silks” exhibit by Dawn Gerardot, 456 Old Main St., Bradenton. Info: 941-778-6648.

• Through May 4, “American Farmer,” the Bishop, the Bishop Museum, 201 10th St. W., Bradenton. Fee applies. Info: 941-7464131.

• Various Mondays through May 12, Ringling by the Bay! performances, the John and Mable Ringling Museum of Art, 5401 Bay Shore Road, Sarasota. Fee applies. Info: 941-359-5700.

• Through May 18, “America at a Crossroads: The Guitar and a Changing Nation,” the Bishop, the Bishop Museum, 201 10th St. W., Bradenton. Fee applies. Info: 941-746-4131.

• Through June 29, “George Harrison: A Gardener’s Life,” Marie

‘Sensational Silks’ island Gallery and Studios features work by Dawn Gerardot in April with “Sensational Silks.” “While creating, my mind moves to a most relaxed state and i find a quietness and peace of heart,” Gerardot said. A reception with Gerardot will be 5-7 p.m. Friday, April 4. The gallery is at 456 Old Main St., Bradenton. For more, call 941-778-6648.

Selby Botanical Gardens, 1534 Mound St., Sarasota. Fee applies. Info: 941-366-5731.

SAVE THE DATES

• April 11, AGAMI Paint Arounds and City Center Night Markets, Holmes Beach.

• April 11, April 18, April 25, May 2, Music in the Park series, Bradenton.

• April 12, Bradenton Gulf Islands Concert Series continues, Robby Krieger of The Doors, Anna Maria.

• April 17, Manatee Music Series at G.T. Bray presents Kettle of Fish, Bradenton.

• May 3, Center of Anna Maria Island Cajun Crawfish Boil, Anna Maria.

• May 8-18, Island Players’ “Grace & Glorie,” Anna Maria.

• May 15, Manatee Music Series at G.T. Bray presents MonkeyFinger, Bradenton.

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.

ONGOING OFF AMI

• Saturdays, 9 a.m.-2 p.m., Bradenton Public Market, Main Street. Info: 941-301-8445.

KIDS & FAMILY

ONGOING

• Most Fridays, 10 a.m., Forty Carrots, Island Library, 5701 Marina Drive, Holmes Beach. Info: 941-778-6341.

• Most Tuesdays, 10 a.m., Family Storytime, Island Library, 5701 Marina Drive, Holmes Beach. Info: 941-778-6341.

CLUBS

& COMMUNITY ON AMI

Thursday, April 3

1 p.m. — Sunshine Stitchers, Island Library, 5701 Marina Drive, Holmes Beach. RSVP. Info: 941-778-6341.

ONGOING ON AMI

• Fridays, 11:30 a.m., bridge, Center of Anna Maria Island, 407 Magnolia Ave., Anna Maria. Info: 314-324-5921.

• Fridays, 11:30 a.m., mahjong, Island Library, 5701 Marina Drive, Holmes Beach. Info: 941-778-6341.

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

• Tuesdays, 11:30 a.m., experienced mahjong Island Library, 5701 Marina Drive, Holmes Beach. Info: 941-778-6341.

SAVE THE DATES

• April 10, Cortez Village Historical Society annual meeting, Cortez.

• April 12, Cortez Annual Picnic, Cortez.

• April 18, Center of Anna Maria Island bingo night, Anna Maria.

LESSONS & LEARNING

ON AMI

Wednesday, April 2

10 a.m.-noon — Drawing from Basics to Landscapes, Island Library, 5701 Marina Drive, Holmes Beach. RSVP. Info: 941-7786341.

Friday, April 4

2 p.m. — Flags: An Intro to Vexillology, Island Library, 5701 Marina Drive, Holmes Beach. RSVP. Info: 941-778-6341. Saturday, April 5

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

Wednesday, April 9

10 a.m.-noon — Drawing from Basics to Landscapes, Island Library, 5701 Marina Drive, Holmes Beach. RSVP. Info: 941-7786341.

SPORTS & FITNESS ONGOING OFF

AMI

• Through Sept. 27, Bradenton Marauders’ minor league baseball, LECOM Park, 1611 Ninth St. W., Bradenton. Fee applies. Info: 941-747-3031.

SAVE THE DATES

• May 9, Anna Maria Island Chamber of Commerce Golf Tournament, Bradenton.

OUTDOORS & NATURE

OFF AMI

Friday, April 4

6 p.m. — Game Night at the Nest, Robinson Preserve, 840

ATTENTION RENTAL OWNERS! We meet all your linen and cleaning needs with 5-star service. 18-plus years serving AMI. Our fleet will pick up/drop off daily.

Concert series in Bradenton

Realize Bradenton’s Music in the Park concert series opens April 11 and continues until May 2. Free concerts are 6-8 p.m. Fridays at the Riverwalk Pavilion at Rossi Park, 452 Third Ave. W. The lineup includes Have Gun, Will Travel April 11, Glass Onion Band April 18, Sweet Fleet April 25 and 90 Surge May 2. For more information, call 941-301-8445 or go on Facebook to @realizebradenton.

Kiwanis meeting Saturdays

The Kiwanis Club of Anna Maria Island gathers at 8:30 a.m. Saturdays at Bradenton Beach City Hall, 107 Gulf Drive N.

April plans include a talk by Matt Hogue of Manatee County Animal Welfare April 5, a board meeting April 12, preparations for the sunrise Easter service April 19 and a talk by Anne LeBaron of Take Stock in Children Manatee April 26.

For more information about the club or becoming a speaker at club meetings, call Sandy Haas-Martens at 941-778-1383.

Off Stage Ladies to lunch

The Off Stage Ladies, an auxiliary of the Island Players, will meet for lunch at 11:45 a.m. Wednesday, April 9, at Coast Seafood Grill, 5629 Manatee Ave. W., Bradenton.

The group will staff a fundraising table, as well as sell tickets for “mystery gift” raffles.

The group meets the second Wednesday of the month through May.

The cost to join the group is $25.

People interested in joining Off Stage Ladies can contact Roe Duncan at 941-932-2798.

99th St. NW, Bradenton. Info: 941-748-4501. Wednesday, April 11

10 a.m. — Quill to Ink Calligraphy, Robinson Preserve, 840 99th St. NW, Bradenton. Info: 941-748-4501.

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.

SAVE THE DATES

• April 9, Manatee County Seashell Shore Walk, Bradenton Beach.

• April 16, Manatee County Archeo Paddle in Robinson Preserve, Bradenton.

• April 22, Manatee County Earth Day Paddle in Neal Preserve, Perico Island.

• April 24, Manatee County FrogWatch in Perico Preserve, Perico Island.

• April 28, Manatee County Audubon Leffis Key tour, Bradenton Beach.

CALENDAR NOTES

KEEP THE DATES

• April 1, April Fools’ Day.

• April 22, Earth Day.

• April 20, Easter Sunday.

• April 25, National Arbor Day.

• May 1, sea turtle nesting season begins.

• May 26, Memorial Day.

• June 1, Atlantic hurricane season begins.

ANNOUNCEMENTS GET LISTED!

Send listings to calendar@islander.org.

Island happenings

Setting the mood for the blues

John lodge of The Moody Blues fame performs March 24 at the Center of Anna Maria island to a full house. As part of the British beat and r&B scene in the early-mid 1960s, the band’s top 10 U.S. single was “Go Now” in late 1964. Up next in the Bradenton Gulf islands Concert series is The infamous Stringdusters on Saturday, April 5, at the center, 407 Magnolia Ave., Anna Maria. For tickets and info, go to centerami. org/concerts or call 941-778-1908. islander Photo: Courtesy Janie Ashworth

Support local artists and artisans and support local business! Paintings, prints, jewelry, mosaics, sculpture, book art, photography and much more! at the GUILD GALLERY in the Island Shopping Center.

Marketgoers browse the offerings March 18 on the field at the Center of Anna Maria island, 407 Magnolia Ave., Anna Maria. The center is hosting a Tuesday market with vendors selling produce, other food items, art, crafts and apparel. Hours are 9 a.m.-2 p.m. For more information, call the center at 941-778-1908.

MARIA ISLAND

Market on the green

By Lisa Neff

LBK church celebrates art

The Longboat Island Chapel will celebrate the arts and springtime with “Art in the Garden.”

People are invited to stroll the chapel’s gardens, which will include an outdoor gallery featuring the work of 11 artists.

Hours are 4-8 p.m. Thursday-Friday, April 3-4; 2-8 p.m. Saturday, April 5; and noon-4 p.m. Sunday, April 6.

There is no charge to attend the event sponsored by the chapel and the Longboat Key Garden Club.

The chapel is at 6200 Gulf of Mexico Drive, Longboat Key.

For more information, go to longboatislandchapel. org or call 941-383-6491.

Christ Church readies cantata

Christ Church of Longboat Key, 6400 Gulf of Mexico Drive, Longboat Key, will present a special Holy Week cantata, “The Seven Last Words of Christ,” at 10 a.m. Sunday, April 13.

The musical performance, taking place during a morning service, will feature the Christ Church Chancel Choir, guest soloists and a guest orchestra.

The event is free to attend and the church extended an invite to “visitors and residents.”

For more info, call the church at 941-383-8833.

Kiwanis to host 60th annual Easter service

The Kiwanis Club of Anna Maria Island will host the 60th annual Easter Sunrise Service at 6:30 a.m. Sunday, April 20, at the Manatee Public Beach, 4000 Gulf Drive, Holmes Beach.

The island trolley will be operating at 6 a.m. and the Anna Maria Island Beach Cafe will open at 6:30 a.m. Attendees are asked to bring chairs or blankets for seating comfort.

St. Bernard, Roser and Harvey churches will participate this year.

For more info, go to www.amikiwanis.com.

GoodDeeds

By lisa Neff

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: 941-778-4769.

Assistance sought on AMI

• All Island Denominations accepts financial donations at P.O. Box 814, Anna Maria, FL 34216. Info: 941-778-4769.

• The Anna Maria Island Concert Chorus and Orchestra seeks volunteers, donors and a venue space. Info: info@amicco.org.

• The Anna Maria Island Historical Society, 402 Pine Ave., Anna Maria, seeks donations for restoration and volunteers for the Heritage Day Festival. Info: 608-444-0084.

• The Anna Maria Island Privateers seek a covered building and/or land for the Skullywag, sleigh and other items. Info: amiprivateers.org.

• The Island Players seeks volunteers in every area to “come and be part of our family.” Info: 941-9201362.

• Wildlife Inc., Education and Rehabilitation Center in Bradenton Beach seeks gift cards for supplies. Info: 941-778-6324, wildlifeinc.org.

Email listings for GoodDeeds to lisa@islander. org.

Worship With Us at Our Church

Sunday Ser vice 10 : 00 AM

Dr. Julia Wharff Piermont, Pastor

www.bit.ly/cclbksermons www.christchurchof lbk.org ( k

S peci al Holy Week C antata

THE SEVEN LAST WORDS OF CHRIST

Sunday, April 13 10:00 AM

is famous Lenten Cantata, composed by eodore Dubois, is based on the Gospel accounts of the cruci xion of Jesus. Our chancel Choir, guest orchestra and three guest soloists will present this magni cent event during our regular Sunday service. Visitors and Residents Welcome • Free Event

Earth Day celebration

The Islander invites people of all ages to share how they observe Earth Day. Email photos, art or essays to news@islander. org by Wednesday, April 16. Please, include a name and city of residence for publication.

Good deed for good reads

The Kiwanis Club of Anna Maria island Foundation March 22 presents $500 to the Friends of the island library to purchase interactive children’s books. The presentation involved Kiwanis club member Jeanne Faliveno, left, foundation secretary/treasurer Sandy Haas-Martens, youth librarian Savannah Byers, foundation vice president Darrel Shinn, foundation president lynn Kruse and Kiwanis member Malcolm Shantz. islander Courtesy Photo

Cortez cleanup April 5

The Organized Fishermen of Florida is organizing a cleanup.

The volunteer day will be Saturday, April 5, in Cortez.

Volunteers will meet at the Swordfish Grill and Tiki, 4628 119th St. W., and work from about 8 a.m.-2 p.m.

To participate, contact the Cortez chapter at 941290-3426.

Reef, beach cleanup set

Suncoast Aqua Ventures plans the eighth annual Reef and Beach Clean Up for April 5-6. The event was postponed from last September due to the impact of Hurricane Helene, which was followed by Hurricane Milton in October.

The Reef and Beach Clean Up is not a typical beach clean-up. Instead, Suncoast Aqua Ventures, the organizers, will turn trash collection into a competitive sport, with cash prizes awarded for most recyclables, most tires, most anchors and most shoes.

“We started this organization after witnessing the sheer number of human debris littering our coastlines and underwater habitats,” said SAV president Cheryl Huntsinger. “We knew something had to be done and what better way to tackle the problem than by bringing people together in a fun, competitive family-friendly environment? It’s incredible to see how much we’ve accomplished in just a few short years.”

Home base for the event is the Terra Ceia Sea Breeze Park on Terra Ceia.

Registration is required.

For more information about the event, go online to suncoastaquaventures.com.

For more about Suncoast Aqua Ventures, call 941-962-1488.

PTO seeks gala donations

The Anna Maria Island PTO is organizing its annual spring gala, Night in Paradise, and seeks donations from local businesses for raffle baskets and auctions.

The gala is set for 6-10 p.m. Saturday, April 26, at the Center of Anna Maria Island, 407 Magnolia Ave., Anna Maria.

For more information, call 941-708-5525.

BB ScenicWAVES sets sights on National Arbor Day

By robert Anderson islander reporter

The Bradenton Beach ScenicWAVES committee is finalizing plans for an annual Arbor Day celebration set for 10 a.m. Friday, April 25, and focusing on restoring vegetation at a key intersection.

The city will restore plantings at the roundabout at Gulf Drive and Bridge Street that were damaged during the 2024 hurricane season.

“We are replacing by permit what was originally approved in 2014 when the roundabout was first revamped,” ScenicWAVES vice president Ingrid McClellan said during a March 19 ScenicWAVES meeting. McClellan also is an advertising sales rep for The Islander.

The plantings will include native species such as marsh hay, spartina, coco plum, beach sunflower and porterweed, aligning with the original landscape plan.

City Commissioner Jan Vosburg will cut the ribbon at the celebration.

The $1,500 project is funded with grants from the Florida Forest Service, Modern Woodmen of America, the Anna Maria Island Garden Club and Keep Manatee Beautiful.

Committee members also will update a Tree City

Obituaries

Gene Richard Schaefer

Gene Richard Schaefer of Bradenton and formerly of Anna Maria Island died Sept. 6, 2024.

He was born in Chicago Nov. 3, 1931. He grew up in Springfield Ohio, graduated from Wittenberg University and served in the U.S. Navy as a naval lieutenant aviator.

Once asked how he chose the Navy, he answered that from his earliest memories he loved “being on the water” and always wanted to be a sailor. As a teenager he enlarged his passion to include flying. He moved to Anna Maria Island in the late 1940s and, after traveling the United States and many parts of the world, he returned to the island because “it is the most beautiful atmosphere and location in the world!”

Mr. Schaefer felt his most important work contribution was participating in the National Alliance of Businessmen, facilitating collaborations to find or create employment opportunities, housing and transportation services for adults and youth in low- to moderate-incomes. He also worked for the National Housing Conference.

He was a proud member of American Legion, Association of Former Intelligence Officers and the Aircraft Owners Pilot Association.

While living on the island, he was an active member of the “Sons of the Beach,” focused on promoting and protecting local businesses and activities for children on the island.

He is survived by his beautiful wife, Dee Percifield Schaefer, whom he loved more than words could express, and he frequently demonstrated his love with thoughtful surprises. For almost two decades, they owned and operated the Beach Shop and Cafe on the Beach at Manatee Public Beach.

His family remembers him as a “storyteller,” someone who always reassured them “there are no stupid questions,” a stainmaster, an encourager, and as “classy, a true gentleman.”

He was a private person who focused on making people feel capable and appreciated. It was said of him “if life experiences could be measured as a currency, then Gene certainly died a rich man.”

Memorial donations may be made to the American

The roundabout at Gulf Drive and Bridge Street in Bradenton Beach is headed for a National Arbor Day makeover.

USA sign outside city hall, recognizing Bradenton Beach’s 14 years in the program sponsored by the Arbor Day Foundation supporting communities in maintaining and growing a tree canopy.

On March 20, the city commission voted 5-0 to approve a ScenicWAVES Arbor Day proclamation.

ScenicWAVES serves as an advisory committee for the Bradenton Beach Scenic Highway Corridor Management entity, promoting awareness of tree canopy and landscaping initiatives.

The next ScenicWAVES committee meeting will be at 1 p.m. Wednesday, April 16, at city hall, 107 Gulf Drive N.

About Arbor Day

Arbor Day — which translates to “tree” day from the Latin origin of the word “arbor” — celebrates the planting, upkeep and preservation of trees.

Across the United States, the holiday is observed on the last Friday in April.

Florida also observes a state Arbor Day in January.

Kidney Foundation or Tidewater Hospice through the Tidewell Foundation, 3550 S. Tamiami Trail, Sarasota, FL 34239.

Mr. Schaefer is survived by his wife, Dee; daughter, Erica Schaefer Kishpaugh and husband Scott of Harrisburg, Pennsylvania; sons James W. of Bradenton and Peter C. and his fiancee Julie Patterson of Erie, Pennsylvania; and numerous grandchildren and greatgrandchildren.

Michael Thrasher

Michael Thrasher, 78, of Bradenton and formerly of Anna Maria, died March 22.

He was born June 25, 1946, in London.

He was known for his generosity, sharp wit and entrepreneurial spirit. He lived a life of purpose, dedicating himself to his work and charitable endeavors, friendships and treasured moments with family.

He was a devoted husband and father, deeply loved by his wife and three daughters, as well as his four stepdaughters, who will forever hold his wisdom, British humor and unwavering love in their hearts.

He was a top-rated graphic designer with decades-

Season’s last ‘Bingo!’

Norah Meyer of indiana holds a winning card March 27 after hitting the first “bingo” of the evening during the last night of the winter-spring games at the Annie Silver Community Center in Bradenton Beach. Moments later her mother, Kate, won. islander Photo: robert Anderson

long input into the Organix baby food company, which was recognized in 2001 by the Queen of England, a moment of immense pride.

He had a deep passion for cars and an adventurous spirit that extended to his hobbies, including cultivating his Hillside vineyard. He contributed to the development of Pine Avenue and served on the board of the Center of Anna Maria Island.

Private celebrations of life will be held in Florida and in the UK. Memorial donations may be made to the Center of AMI, P.O. Box 253, Anna Maria, FL 34216.

Brown & Sons Funeral Homes & Crematory, Bradenton, was in charge of arrangements.

Mr. Thrasher is survived by his beloved wife, Natalie; sister Pauline and husband William; daughters Elli and husband Michael, Jodi and husband Rhys, and Abbi and husband Rich; stepdaughters Aimi and husband Nathan, Sarah and husband Anthony, Elizabeth and husband Jacob, and Whitney and husband Daniel; and 12 grandchildren.

islander Photo: robert Anderson

Thrasher

Northern Longboat Key roundabout project moves forward

By robert Anderson islander reporter

Longboat Key officials circled back on a roundabout project at the intersection of Broadway Street and Gulf of Mexico Drive March 24, agreeing to work with the Florida Department of Transportation on a pre-construction phase.

The project was initially estimated to cost $2 million-$2.4 million, with the DOT pledging $1.65 million. However, in June 2024, town commissioners asked to put the project on hold after the DOT required reengineering of Gulf of Mexico Drive, raising costs to $6 million.

The project’s new estimated cost, updated in February, is $5.1 million.

And at a workshop March 24, town engineer Jennifer Fehrs said the DOT will now shoulder primary responsibility for development and funding will be shared by the DOT, Manatee County, the town and the Sarasota/Manatee Metropolitan Planning Organization, a transportation planning entity of elected officials representing both counties.

Last fall, the MPO put forward $4.8 million in federal funding to facilitate the project, requiring the DOT’s oversight.

With the DOT taking the lead, the town must

Teaming up

Members of the rotary Club of Anna Maria island team up with Anna Maria island Turtle Watch and Shorebird Monitoring March 24 for a workday.

The volunteers met at a mainland warehouse on Cortez road and rolled out yellow paint on wood stakes to mark sea turtle nests on island beaches. islander Photo: Courtesy Danielle Kimberly

Demo after damage

A crew dismantles a home March 20 at the corner of Fifth Street South and Gulf Drive South in Bradenton Beach. The house, built in 1931, was damaged during the 2024 hurricane season. islander

Photo: robert Anderson

comply with and pay for state requirements on design standards, utility adjustments and infrastructure upgrades.

Fehrs said water and sewer upgrades could cost just under $1 million in fiscal year 2026.

The town also will shoulder costs for landscaping and utility relocation.

Longboat Key already committed $569,400 for geotechnical surveys and design modifications to satisfy the DOT’s criteria.

The target date for finalizing project plans is Oct. 31, with bidding and awarding of a contract in 2026. Roundabout construction is expected to take two years.

GoodDeeds

By lisa Neff

Grant to aid island Rotary’s swim program

The Rotary Club of Lakewood Ranch presented $142,000 in grants to 36 nonprofits and Rotary projects with money raised from the club’s 2024 annual Suncoast Food & Wine Fest.

Rotarians, grant recipients, sponsors and guests gathered at the Lakewood Ranch Golf and Country Club March 27 for the awards presentation.

The Anna Maria Island Rotary Club received a grant for its Learn to Swim program.

Grants also went to All Faiths Food Bank Inc. for its backpack food program, Big Brothers Big Sisters of the Sun Coast Inc. to support at-risk college-bound students, Big Waters Land Trust for youth nature-based education programming, the Boys & Girls Club of Manatee County Inc. for educational supplies, Child Protection Center Inc. for its supervised visitation program, Children First Inc. for Full Tummies, Flourishing Minds, Children’s Guardian Fund Inc. for summer camp for neglected children, Disaster Aid USA for volunteering resources and many more organizations.

The north longboat Key intersection of Broadway Street and Gulf of Mexico Drive is the focus of a roundabout project. islander

Photo: robert Anderson

April brings warm weather, light breezes, plenty of targets

By Capt. Danny Stasny islander reporter

With the warm weather and light breezes of April, you can bet Anna Maria Island anglers are heading out on the water to see what awaits at the end of their line.

Inshore fishing is shaping up to be better than normal as we leave cold fronts behind and settle into a consistent weather pattern. Species such as snook, redfish and trout are lurking in their favorite springtime haunts, waiting to gorge themselves on the influx of bait, which is expected in the weeks to come.

Stasny

Spotted seatrout are especially prolific on most grass flats where clean, clear water exists. In depths of 2-8 feet, spotted seatrout can be found with peak feeding times occurring during the swift stages of the tide.

The same applies for snook.

Mangrove edges alongside lush grass flats where a good water flow exists provide excellent ambush points for linesiders and create opportunities for the angler, whose timing and spot selection are integral.

As for redfish, a variety of terrain can be host to these “bulldogs” of the shallows. Whether it be mangrove edges where oyster bars exist, shallow sand bars dropping into deeper grass flats or sandy beaches where structure exists, there’s a possibility you’ll find reds. Add good tidal flow and luck and you have the perfect recipe for a blackened redfish dinner.

Don’t forget about other coastal species, such as ladyfish, jack crevalle and Spanish mackerel. All of these are worthy of bending a rod as they display acrobatic jumps, drag-screaming runs and a fight to the end.

Speaking of macks, don’t forget their larger cousins, the king mackerel, should be arriving as water temps in the Gulf creep into the low- to mid-70s.

Benji Thunell of Jackson, Wyoming, shows off a tasty tripletail he caught March 27 on a live shiner while on a guided fishing trip with Capt. David White. White reports the fish was devoured that evening by Thunell and his family.

Nearshore action as a whole should start livening up with the anticipated moderate temperatures, bringing species including bonito, sharks, kingfish and Spanish mackerel to the nearshore reefs and wrecks. Also, throughout your travels in the nearshore waters in the Gulf, keep an eye out for cobia meandering along the surface, moving from one area of structure to the next.

Yes, if you’re tired of the wind, cold water and rough seas, April brings relief and builds confidence as the fishing will only get better.

On my Just Reel charters, spotted seatrout are dominating the bite. Fish of all sizes are being caught in a variety of areas as long as a few important characteristics exist — clean and clear water, good tidal flow and plenty of seagrass. Many slot-size fish measuring

Jeff Kirk of Traverse City, Michigan, opted to go sport fishing for snook March 24 with Capt. Danny Stasny of Just reel Fishing Charters and caught his first keeper, measuring in at 29 inches. The fish was released.

15-19 inches are being caught, with some just under and some just over the slot. Live shiners as bait work well, although soft plastics on a jig head also are proving effective.

Snook fishing during the higher stages of the tide is going well for my clients with a lot of fish measuring 20-25 inches and slot fish — between 28-33 inches — mixed in every so often.

Redfish also are around, especially when casting baits around rocks and docks.

Finally, Spanish mackerel, ladyfish and jack cravelle are filling the gaps for my clients when we pull up and work the deeper grass flats.

Capt. David White says he’s catching plenty of snook while fi shing the fl ats of Tampa Bay, where lengthy rallies of snook are occurring during higher stages of the tide and the use of live shiners as bait.

Spanish mackerel and spotted seatrout are being found on deeper grass flats and these fish also are after the live shiners.

Casting jigs along the beaches and over select grass flats is leading to pompano action, reports White. Send high-resolution photos and fishing reports to fish@islander.org.

License-free fishing ahead

This spring’s license-free fishing weekend is Saturday-Sunday, April 5-6, inviting people to explore recreational freshwater fi shing opportunities in the state.

The Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission, in an online notice, stated: “Whether you like to fish from the shore or your boat, there are so many options available across the state.

“Anglers of all ages and skill levels are encouraged to take advantage of this special weekend that allows them to reel in their favorite freshwater species without the need for a fishing license.

While the state suspended license requirements for freshwater fishing, other rules, such as seasons, bag and size limits apply.

For more information, go to gooutdoorsflorida. com.

Adult soccer kicks off at center, members challenge at KRC

By Kevin P. Cassidy islander reporter

The adult soccer league at the Center of Anna Maria Island kicked off its spring season March 27 with five games, starting with Hampton Painting holding off Language Services Associates 3-2 behind a pair of goals from Ethan Hampton and a goal and an assist from Daniel Hampton.

Kevin Roman had a goal and an assist to lead Language Services Associates, which also received a goal in the loss from Helio Gomez and 12 saves from Caleb Arendt.

The second game of the night saw Moss Builders outscore Duncan Real Estate 6-2 behind four goals from Julio Cantu and two goals from Greg Moss.

Danny Free and Jasmine Muldoon each had a goal for Duncan, which also received nine saves from Steve Oelfke and PJ Smargisso in the loss.

Ross Built cruised to a 7-2 victory over Sato Real Estate, getting four goals from Molly Setsma and a goal each from Mack Heitchuee, Alex Landy and Christos Loizou in the victory.

Damir Glavan and Jay Reiss-William each scored a goal, while Josh Sato and JD Webb combined on nine saves to lead Sato in the loss.

Florida Impact Windows edged Pool Americaa 5-4 in the fourth game of the night behind three goals from Selina Gonzalez-Salinas. Raul Loera and Marcelo Rubio each added a goal while Keith Mahoney had four assists in the win.

Hugo Gallego scored three goals for lead Pool America, which also received a goal from Murat Akay

and four assists from Leo Gonzalez in the loss.

Bubble Binz held on for a 5-4 victory over Slicker’s Eatery in the last game of the night thanks to four goals by Gerardo Urbiola Bolanos. Antonio Bujarski added a goal and Nate Welch finished with six saves in the victory.

Juan Vega scored three goals for Slicker’s, which also received a goal from Brandon Rolland and seven saves from Robb Marshall in the loss.

Key Royale golf news

Sixty men and 44 women played in the annual member-member tournament at the Key Royale Club

language Services Associates player

Tyler Brewer, left, goes high over Daniel Hampton March 27 in an attempt to get his head on a corner kick as Hampton painting goalie Max Gazzo and defenders Kali Richardson and Ethan Hampton look on during adult soccer action at the Center of Anna Maria island. Islander Photo: Kevin P. Cassidy

in Holmes Beach with the men playing March 19 and the women March 26.

The men were divided into three flights in a handicap better-ball format. The duo of Ken Nagengast and Greg Shorten captured first place in Flight A with a 53, while John Hackinson and Jim Hill took first place in Flight B with a 58 after a four-team chip-off. Flight C was won by Joe Coyne and Rich Salzburg with a 55.

The three winning teams then played a suddendeath playoff with Hackinson and Hill taking the prize.

The women’s group was split into three flights for a two-person scramble. Julia Fay and Jenny Huibers won the blue flight with a net score of 24.7, while Rene Chapman and Mary Ann Latham took first place in the orange flight with a score of 26.2. Roxanne Koche and Connie Livanos took first place in the green flight with a score of 24.1.

Regular golf action March 24 saw Al Waal card a plus-5 to take first place in the men’s modified-Stableford system match. Dave DuVernay and Jerry Martinek were both a point back in second, while Chuck Patrick plEASE SEE SPORTS pAGE 19

Cassidy

By Lisa Neff

Watching water quality

A Suncoast Waterkeeper study assesses water quality and pollution in 2024 and found three persistent problem sites — the Historic Bridge Street Pier, Robinson Preserve and the Palma Sola Causeway.

The nonprofit environmental group released in late winter the “2024 Review: Fecal Indicator Bacteria on the Suncoast,” a look at monitoring for bacteria known as enterococci at 11 locations last year.

Enteric bacteria, if present in high concentrations, can cause disease, infections and rashes.

The locations where Sunset Waterkeeper collected samples last year included the Bridge Street pier in Bradenton Beach, Robinson in northwest Bradenton, the Palma Sola Causeway north beach, the Longboat Key Boat Ramp and Longboat Key’s Bayfront Park.

The group found:

• The best overall water quality occurred during the driest months, April and May, which together received 1.5 inches of rain.

• Two Longboat Key sites were the only locations that consistently maintained good water quality throughout the rainy summer months of June and July.

• All sites performed poorly in August due to Tropical Storm Debby, which brought heavy rainfall and poor water quality across the Suncoast for 4-5 weeks.

• Hurricanes Helene and Milton passed through in late September and early October but water quality recovered much faster than after Debby because the hurricanes brought less rain. However, storm surges from Helene and wind damage from Milton caused prolonged contamination on Longboat Key and in Palma Sola Bay.

• Palma Sola Bay north, the Bridge Street pier and Robinson Preserve had less than one swimmable month throughout the year.

About the Palma Sola beach, Waterkeeper said, “Our results show that Palma Sola Bay north of Cause-

Water quality study planned

Commissioners approved an agreement between Manatee County and Florida Gulf Coast University for a study to identify potential water quality improvement projects in the region.

The county commission OK’d the agreement March 25 as it approved a series of items in its consent agenda.

The research, funded with a $10,000 grant, will include projects that encompass and extend beyond septic conversion, stormwater management, hydrologic improvements and innovative technology categories.

Primary water quality concerns, according to the agreement, include “nutrient pollution, sedimentation, harmful algal blooms.”

— lisa Neff

way, a popular swimming destination, should have no swimming signs posted.”

About Robinson and the pier, the report noted that people do not swim at the locations but they do fish, and the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency warns, “Eating fish or shellfish harvested from waters with fecal contamination can also result in human illness.”

Manatees on the move — go slow, look out below

The Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission reminds boaters to go slow and keep an eye out for manatees as the slow-moving mammals naturally disperse from their winter refuges. Manatees overwinter in Florida springs, power plant discharges and other warm-water sites, relying on water that is warmer than 68 degrees Fahrenheit. As temperatures rise in spring, manatees gradually disperse from their winter habitats and are more likely to be present in rivers, canals and nearshore waters. Also, from April 1 through Nov. 15, seasonal manatee zones require boaters to slow down in certain areas to prevent manatees from being injured or killed by motorboats or personal watercrafts. For more, go to myfwc.com/manatee. To report a sick or injured manatee, call the FWC hotline at 888-4043922. Islander Courtesy Photo

To fluoridate or not?

Manatee County commissioners were set April 1 to take up a flashpoint issue: the fluoridation of drinking water.

The meeting at the county administration building in Bradenton was set to begin at 9 a.m. April 1, after The Islander went to press for the week.

The board was to hold a first reading on a draft ordinance “to cease adding fluoride to the county’s public water supply,” which is distributed countywide, including on the islands.

In November 2024, the state’s surgeon general, Dr. Joseph Ladapo, issued a statement against fluoridation “due to the neuropsychiatric risk associated with fluoride exposure.”

Ladapo’s recommendation has supporters and also detractors who dispute the validity of the research he’s cited.

Proponents of fl uoridation say it is a safe, cost effective and equitable way to reduce dental cavities and repair tooth decay.

Opponents maintain fluoridation infringes on individual rights and its benefits do not justify costs or health risks.

— lisa Neff

Earth Day celebration The Islander invites people of all ages to share how they observe Earth Day. Email photos, art or essays to news@islander.org by Wednesday, April 16. Please, include a name and city of residence for publication.

Neff

ITEMS FOR SALE

ENLARGEMENT OF AN original front page from 1958 featuring Harry Varley, who founded the Islander in 1951, as “The Woeful Knight and the Wilful Dragon by r onald Mc l eod, a national commercial artist who lived on the island. Photo available. Make offer. 941-626-3926.

THREE GALLONS UNOPENED Sherwin Williams white paint. Interior satin. Was $135, just bought last week, now, $80. 941-778-6854.

SONY DIGITAL/AUDIO receiver: 660p, 66sr desktop speaker and subwoofer. $75. Bill, 724-9860314.

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).

GARAGE SALES

GARAGE/ESTATE SALE: 8 a.m.-2 p.m. Friday and Saturday, April 11-12. 530 68th St., Holmes Beach.

TRANSPORTATION

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

BOATS & BOATING

HAVE A BOAT and wanna catch more fish, better bait or learn the water? 50-year local fisherman, your boat, my knowledge. Captain Chris, 941896-2915.

SUNCOAST BOTTOM PAINTING: Professional bottom painting. Mobile. Call 941-704-9382.

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

Lawn Service Inc.

BOATS & BOATING Continued

WELCOME ABOARD JOYFISH Charters for private fishing, sunset cruises, and dolphin watching. Check out joyfishcharters.com or follow us on Facebook. Call to reserve, 941-840-3181.

HELP WANTED

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

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 TECH issues? Not sure where to start? With years of experience, I’ll come to you with reliable solutions. Contact Gavin at 928-5871309. www.gse.codes

SARASOTA PAINTING: INTERIOR/exterior/cabinets: Call or text Don, 941-900-9398. Free estimates. Fully insured, twenty years’ experience.

RIDEEASY 247 YOUR professional, reliable and courteous car service to airports and events since 2015. You can reach us via text 941-4477737 or email to mrfort5001@gmail.com We are available 24/7.

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

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 727-623-5050 or visit u-plus-me.com

WINDOW CLEANING: DOWNEAST Window Cleaning, 207-852-6163. I SLANDER ARCHIVE UofF Florida digital newspaper collection at ufdc.ufl.edu.

SERVICES

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

LOOKING FOR SOMEONE who needs me: Clean, house-sit. I can cook, make sandwiches. I can do anything you can do but better! I can run to the grocery store for you. I can walk pets or go out to lunch with you. Looking for a part-time job caregiving companion, I am your right arm! I love people and I love helping others. I have references and i’m reliable and dependable. My name is Dena Gray a.k.a. Sparkles! 941-524-2234.

IN-HOME SUPPORT: 26-plus years’ experience. Tammy roberts, 941-580-4440.

ACHAUFFER4U FOR TRANSPORTATION anywhere in Florida. Properly insured and over 40 years in Bradenton. Dennis, 941-812-5930.

ONECALL CLEANUP. Junk removal, water damage, and more. Fast, reliable service. Call, 941-544-1260.

AFFORDABLE PRESSURE CLEANING, painting or maid service. 941-356-1456.

NEED A RIDE to the airports? Service to Tampa, St. Pete or SRQ. Call Gary at 863-409-5875

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. Since 1987. For dependable, honest and personalized service, call Bill Eller, 941-720-7411. residential, call Nate, 941524-2248. CAC184228.

CLEAN TECH MOBILE Detailing. At your location. Cars, boats, RVs. Call or text Billie for an appointment. references. 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 HOME IMPROVEMENTS Inc. Handyman, fine woodwork, countertops, cabinets and wood flooring. Insured and licensed. 941-7228792.

LANE’S SCREENING SERVICES: Replace your window, door or lanai screens. Many screen options available. r etired 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 413-2462410. 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.

HOME IMPROVEMENT

DONALD PERKINS PAINTING LLC. Interior/exterior/pressure washing. Island references. dperkinspaint@hotmail.com. 941-705-7096.

GORILLA DRYWALL REPAIR LLC. Let’s solve your drywall problems together. Give us a call at 941-286-0607.

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, 864884-3380.

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

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

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

GORGEOUS WATERFRONT FIRST-floor condo: 2BR/2BA, carport. Available June to December or monthly. Call/email for pics, 570-239-0431. marketreps@aol.com

FOR SALE OR lease: Downtown Bradenton, west end of the Riverwalk, a dynamic 55-plus walk-about community. 2BR/2BA has panoramic views of Manatee River and Marina. Geri Kenyon, 941725-4374. Florida Suncoast Real Estate.

2026 WATERFRONT 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.

2026 SEASONAL RENTAL: Just one block from the beach, Single-story 2BR/2BA private residence, screened patio. No smoking/no pets. December-April. 64th Street, Holmes Beach. Call 813-833-4926.

SIX-MONTH RENTAL: Available May-November, 2025. Peaceful, spacious first-floor 3BR/2BA condo with fabulous pool view, two king suites, one block to beach, two pools, (one heated), tennis/pickle ball courts, two assigned covered parking, cable/internet. $2,750/month, no taxes. Non-smoking/no pets. Local owner (video). 563370-2900. Holmes Beach.

BEAUTIFUL PERICO BAY CLUB CONDO! 2BR/2BA second floor unit. Seasonal, $4,750/ month. Annual, $2,500/month. Call 941-7781979 for more details.

MINUTES TO BEACHES! 2BR/2BA condo, water and cable included, pool, washer/dryer, $1,795/ month, annual, 941-713-6743.

FOR RENT: HOLMES Beach. 2BR/2BA bungalow, half-duplex. Short walk to beach. Quiet and private area, no stairs. Washer and dryer, would prefer year-round tenant, month-to-month negotiable. prefer no animals. Available May 1. $2,000/month, includes utilities. Contact Paul, 519-807-9426. Pkelly333333@hotmail.co m dlehto@telus.net jkrouse@shaw.ca

AVAILABLE NOW! ANNUAL rental. Beautiful, bright renovated condo 2BR/2BA, one floor. Perico Bay Club, pool, hot tub, tennis, pickle ball, covered parking. $2,500/ month. Call 612-802-8357.

WESTBAY COVE ON Anna Maria: This is a 2BR/2BA waterfront unit for rent for $10,500 in April and $9,500 in May. Call, 973-208-0020. prs@auaus.net.

WEST BRADENTON VILLA: 2BR/2BA plus den. Two-car garage. Heated community pool and spa, boat, RV storage lot. Flexible lease, $2,100/ month. Real Estate Mart, 941-356-1456.

VACATION RENTALS: PALMA Sola Bay townhouse. 2BR/2BA pool and boat dock, $900/week. Perico Bay Club villa, 2BR/2BA, garage. $3,000/ monthly. Real Estate Mart, 941-356-1456.

ANNUAL CONDO: Bradenton Beach. 1BR, furnished, all utilities, cable, and WIFI included, small resort, big pool, one block to beach. Six months minimum, $2,500 per month. 941-7047525.

ANNA MARIA 3BR/1BA historic cottage: Halfblock to Gulf beach and one block to Pine Avenue shopping and restaurants. Available April 4 through May, 2025. Weekly or monthly. Home phone, 941-778-8456, cell, 941-704-1015. Terryaposporos@gmail.com

WATERFRONT 2BR/2BA FIRST-floor condo for rent. May/June. Additional months considered. Two pools, tennis, one block from beach, shopping. Call or text Kathy, 973-219-0335. Sorry, no pets.

REAL ESTATE

WINNIE MCHALE, REALTOR, 941-504-6146. Dalton Wade Real Estate. You need an aggressive and experienced Realtor in today’s market! Selling island homes, Sarasota and Bradenton areas. Multi-million-dollar producer! “Selling HomesMaking Dreams Come True.”

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, lake view. Gated community, guard. Completely renovated, turnkey. Minutes to beaches. Rental opportunities. Call Bob, 732-673-4684.

NORTHWEST BRADENTON CUSTOM-built home with Mediterranean flair. 2BR/2BA, twocar garage. Community pool, spa, pier on bay. $795,000. Real Estate Mart, 941-356-1456.

LOOKING FOR AN EARLY BIRD? You can read Wednesday’s classifieds on Tuesday at islander.org. And it’s FREE!

UMBRELLA BEACH RESORT Timeshare for sale. Sleeps six, pool, spa. In the center of the action, Skinny’s, Surf Shop, public beach and cafe. Publix Market, two blocks. Deeded. $3,000. Contact Mike, 269-501-7437.

GREAT VIEW: PERICO Bay Club. 2BR/2BA, first floor direct bay view. Garage, New air, water heater, tile roof, renovated, like-new everywhere flooring, cabinets, countertops. Inside and outside newly painted. Very desirable, great value. Guard-gated community. Minutes to beach. 1153 Edgewater Circle, Bradenton. $495,000. Lew, 352-339-3478.

1BR/1BA TRAILER: PARTIALLY remodeled at Sandpiper r esort. $120,000. One minute to beach and Intracoastal. 832-212-2606.

COMMERCIAL SPACE FOR SALE in Palm Condo. 12x25-foot office suite. Street frontage. One allocated parking space. Shared client parking. $120,000. Call 941-730-2606.

PLACE YOUR AD online at islander.org.

Registration open for Manatee expo, AMI tourney

The Manatee Chamber of Commerce is lining up exhibitors for its spring expo in May while the Anna Maria Island Chamber of Commerce is registering golfers for a day on the links.

Manatee’s Spring Expo 2025 will be 4-7 p.m. Thursday, May 1, at the Bradenton Area Convention Center, 1 Haben Blvd., Palmetto.

The cost to exhibit is $425-$500.

For more, call the chamber at 941-748-3411.

The AMI chamber’s 26th annual Golf Tournament benefiting the nonprofit’s scholarship fund will be at 12:30 p.m. Friday, May 9, at the IMG Academy Golf Club, 4350 El Conquistador Parkway, Bradenton.

Registration is $650 per foursome or $170 per individual golfer while a nongolf dinner ticket is $50.

For more, call the chamber at 941-778-1541.

— lisa Neff

BizCal

By Lisa Neff

New chef for Beach House Beachside Hospitality Group in March named Cherry Carreon as the new executive chef at the Beach House Waterfront Restaurant. Carreon is the first female to take on the role at the beachfront restaurant. In her new job, Carreon introduced a menu that highlights Chilean sea bass, Chesapeake Bay oysters, chicken picatta and more. “I love all dishes on our menu but if I had to choose a favorite, it would probably be the Chilean seabass which has a distinct umami flavor and is accompanied by a delicious coconut rice,” said the chef, who originally is from the Philippines. The restaurant is at 200 Gulf Drive N., Bradenton Beach. For more, go to www. beachhousedining.com or call 941-779-2222.

Mario Williams, on spring break from a Tennessee college, brought his guitar to Slicker’s Eatery, 102012 Cortez Road, Cortez, March 22, where he found a crowd of hungry music-lovers, both locals and Pittsburgh Pirates management, players, staff and their families. In the audience were Mario’s parents, Travis Williams, CEO of the Pirates, and mom Nikki. Hunter Duggins, Gunnar Earnest, Jax Stoehy and Beckham Scott also were among about 20 others from the Pirates organization who went to give Bob Slicker, owner, a boost in business to follow the long hurricane recovery. Islander Photo: Bonner Joy

Naples-based Marquis Management Construction of Florida completed more than $40,000 worth of work recently at the site of AMI Carwash, 5804 Marina Drive, Holmes Beach. The property is managed by the Ugly Grouper and provides parking for the adjacent restaurant. Work included repairing the roof, replacing drywall and vanities, installing fencing, fixing up the exterior and repainting the building dark gray. The property was last operated as a car wash but closed a few years ago. Islander Photo: Bonner Joy

you’re new in business? Email news@ islander.org.

Holmes Beach defunct car wash repaired, repainted

Jenny Huibers and Julia Fay pose on winning the KRC member/ member tournament in the blue flight.

roxanne Koche and Connie livanos, winners in the March 19 member/ member tournament green flight.

was alone in third place at plus-3.

Members then played a nine-hole scramble/ shamble March 26 with the course configured to a par 43. The team of Janelle Clements, Brian Comer, Rod Hammonds and Ron Huibers combined on a 4-underpar 39 to take first place.

The team of Rob Ellis, Lance Elson, Jack Lowry and Greg Shorten matched the 3-under-par 40 carded by Jim Bailey, Deb and Dave Richardson and Quentin Talbert to tie for second place.

Horseshoes action

Three teams advanced to the knockout stage and battled for the day’s championship during March 26 horseshoe action at the Anna Maria City Hall pits.

John Yarouch and Tim Sofran drew the lucky bye

Perico Island author publishes back-to-back releases

Perico Island resident Mark “Scoop” Malinowski announced the publication of his 24th and 25th books within days.

“LeRoy Neiman: Portrait Of The Artist,” self-published by Malinowski, sells for $9.99 on Amazon.

Neiman, Malinowski said of his close friend for more than 20 years, “was a man of talent and vision. He saw things in a way that most people would never dream and he brought it to life. With a brilliance and eye for detail that confirms his place in history as America’s best known and loved artist.”

The book is a collection of memories and anecdotes about Neiman from names in sports, media and art, including Mike Tyson and Kareem Abdul-Jabbar.

“The Sarasota Open Experience,” self-published by Malinowski, also is available on Amazon for $9.99. People also will be able to purchase the book at the 2025 Sarasota Open, which will be April 6-13 at the Sarasota Sports Club in Sarasota.

Rene Chapman and Mary Ann Latham take the orange flight prize in the KRC member/ member tournament.

islander Photos: Courtesy KRC

and watched as Adin Shank and Dom Livedoti eliminated John Lothschutz and Norm Langeland 21-15 to advance to the title match. Yarouch and Sofran went on to defeat Shank and Livedoti by the same score in the finals.

Four teams advanced to the knockout stage during March 29 action at the pits. The first semifinal match saw Yarouch and Sofran eliminate Bob Lee 23-17,

“LeRoy Neiman: Portrait Of The Artist” and “The Sarasota Open Experience” are written by Perico islander Mark “Scoop” Malinowski.

The book, Malinowski said, is a collection of articles, recollections and interviews related to the tournament.

For more about Malinowski’s work, go to https:// mrbiofile.com/author/scoop-malinowski/.

Men’s member/member golf winners March 19 at the Key Royale Club: Greg Shorten, Ken Nagengast, John Hackinson, Jim Hill, Tim Friessen, Even Cochairperson Rich Salzberg and Joe Coyne.

while Del Reese and Livedoti advanced with a 21-16 victory over Bob Rowley and Gersey Fernandes. The finals were all Reese and Livedoti, as they cruised to a 23-8 victory over Yarouch and Sofran.

Play gets started at 9 a.m. Wednesdays and Saturdays at the Anna Maria City Hall pits. Warmups begin at 8:45 a.m., followed by random team selection. There is no charge to play and everyone is welcome.