





By Robert Anderson Islander Reporter
Bradenton Beach city commissioners voted unanimously May 1 to direct building official Bill Palmer to determine whether compliance measures are necessary for a parking lot at 205 First St. adjacent to the Pines Trailer Park.
The vote followed a public hearing where representatives for the trailer park owner, Pines Park Investors LLC, residents of the park and their respective attorneys and others shared concerns and context regarding the parking lot.
Ruby Wood, 8, of Lynchburg, Virginia, tosses a bean bag as brother Davis, 4, and turtle watch’s Karen Anderson cheer her on at the kick-off party for sea turtle nesting season held May 1 at Coquina Beach in Bradenton Beach. The party, presented by Anna Maria Island Turtle Watch and Shorebird Monitoring, celebrated the launch of the season and Suzi Fox Day, an observance for the late executive director of the organization.
Islander Photos: Lisa Neff
PPI, managed by developer Shawn Kaleta, purchased the parking lot and the trailer park in 2023 from the Jackson Partnership LLLP for $16.2 million.
Under the previous ownership, Pines Trailer Park residents had free use of the lot. After the sale, homeowners were notifi ed they would need to purchase $750 annual leases to continue parking on the lot.
While the lot is zoned C-1 commercial, residents argue it was historically used to meet M-1 mobile home zoning requirements, which mandate
one parking space per mobile home unit. The city’s land development code for M-1 states: “The maximum number of mobile home lots shall not exceed 86 lots” and “Each mobile home shall be assigned one parking space.” Nearly half of the homes in the park lack onsite parking and rely on the lot to meet compliance.
City planner Louis Serna presented his findings.
For news on the first AMI nest of the season, go to page 19.
By Ryan Paice Islander Reporter
Almost all of the memorial benches that lined the shore in Holmes Beach are gone.
And replacing them could cost a pretty penny.
City offi cials unveiled a program April 22 for sponsors to replace their missing memorial benches that formerly provided seating at the beach.
The municipality has accepted funding for many years from sponsors to build benches dedicated to loved ones.
The benches are made with a pair of concrete forms with wooden boards that form the seat and back.
Small plaques display a message of dedication determined by the sponsors. Many of the benches were placed
near public beach accesses to provide seating for beachgoers.
However, only 44 of 164 memorial benches have been found in the wake of hurricanes Helene and Milton, according to public works director Sage Kamiya.
Kamiya said the storms left many benches destroyed, missing, underwater or buried in sand.
Former Holmes Beach resident Joyce Doran told The Islander May 2 about a memorial bench dedicated to her daughter, Karen, who died in 2015 at age 24.
She said her friends came together a year later to sponsor the memorial bench on the beach near 65th Street, with a plaque reading “In Loving Memory of Karen Belinda Doran.”
Doran said the bench meant a lot to her.
“I could sit on the bench in the sand, looking at the ocean, where we loved to be,” Doran said. “It became a great consolation to me and it gave me a feeling of peace.”
She said losing the bench was “heartbreaking,” but she was hoping to have it replaced.
Mayor Judy Titsworth said at the April 22 meeting that replacing the lost benches would be expensive — a cost she was not comfortable with the city shouldering, especially with increased storm activity in recent years.
The mayor said there were other problems with benches on the beach, such as how they can impede nesting sea turtles, and she suggested the city should instead encourage tree plantings near the beach.
The planner concluded that the lot qualifies as a legal non-conforming use within the C-1 district, meaning its current use may continue, but any change would require full compliance with C-1 zoning.
Attorney Steve Thompson of Najmy Thompson PA, representing Pines Park
“Based on a review of this, we could not find a master plan showing the parking lot as a part of the Pine Trailer Park,” he said. “However, we did note that this site has been used since the 1980s. And it’s commonly understood that the parking lot has been used for the Pines Trailer Park.”
Anna Maria Mayor Mark Short said in a May 2 email to The Islander that he’d like to emphasize for the newspaper’s readers two people who will attend and make a presentation to the city commission.
Elliott Falcione, executive director of the Bradenton Area Convention and Visitors Bureau, and Charlie Hunsicker, director of Manatee County
benches conTinued froM Page 1
The city stopped accepting applications and requests for new memorial benches last September.
Nevertheless, sponsors will have a chance to replace any memorial benches that were installed within the past 10 years — as long as they are willing to cover the cost.
Under the city’s new program, sponsors must apply to replace a lost or damaged bench.
Replacing a bench will cost sponsors $1,200$1,400, according to Kamiya.
He based the cost on an estimated 15 hours needed to rebuild a single bench, plus the cost of materials and memorial plaques.
Kamiya said that, so far, 29 sponsors have contacted the city about replacing damaged or lost benches.
He said the city would address them on a firstcome, first-served basis and inform them of the cost of replacing each bench depending on what was recovered of the original.
If they agree to move forward and provide funding, public works will replace the bench in its original location.
Kamiya projected staff could complete up to two benches per month.
During public comment, former Commissioner
Natural Resources.
Short said they would make a presentation at a 1 p.m. Thursday, May 8, meeting on ideas for a new ferry landing in the city.
Manatee County operates the Gulf Islands Ferry Thursday-Sunday between the downtown Bradenton riverfront and the Historic Bridge Street Pier in Bradenton Beach.
Before hurricanes Helene and Milton damaged the Anna Maria City Pier, the ferry made a routine stop there to embark and disembark passengers.
Short encouraged public attendance.
Other items on the agenda — found at cityofannamaria.com — include a proposed permit for the Center
Jim Kihm said the cost to sponsor a memorial bench for his wife was about $450 around five years ago.
Kihm asked city officials to “sharpen your pencils” to see if anything could be done to lower the price of replacing the benches.
Kihm said he believed the benches provide a public benefit by giving people places to rest.
Doran said she supported Kihm’s request to lower the proposed cost of replacing memorial benches, which she said was exorbitant “to say the least.”
“Let’s see what we can do with the financing,” she said.
Commission Chair Dan Diggins said he would look into making the matter a formal agenda item for a future meeting so it could be further discussed.
The city commission will meet next at 2 p.m. Tuesday, May 13, at city hall, 5801 Marina Drive.
A livestream of the meeting can be viewed on the city’s website, holmesbeachfl.org.
of Anna Maria Island to host a May 17-18 Rude Dog Masters Battle on the Beach — a boxing championship event, as well as a discussion on the center’s capital project funding. In closing, Short said, “Otherwise for the week, it was again business as usual.”
Holmes Beach Mayor Judy Titsworth also responded May 2 via email to The Islander, saying, “Another slow news week. Gorgeous weather. All departments are doing great. Looking forward to summer.”
She also managed to post a laugh when asked about placing bets on a horse owned in part by developer Shawn Kaleta that was racing May 3 in the Kentucky Derby. She said she knew nothing about it and “No.” No bets.
rigHT: one of 164 memorial benches that lined the beaches of Holmes Beach before last year’s hurricanes. islander Photos: courtesy Holmes Beach
Pines Park conTinued froM Page 1 Investors LLC, objected to the meeting’s purpose.
“I am not so sure what the purpose or intent of the meeting is. Is this a code enforcement issue? A compliance issue?” Thompson asked. “I don’t think the commission has any legal authority to make any decisions today. We have to be afforded the due process.”
Thompson warned of legal action if the city took enforcement action without formal notice.
“I am hoping you are not going to blow past the due process you set up in your own code,” he said.
Thompson also said the city could not regulate the lot’s use under Florida Statute 715.07.
However, he noted that the owners had agreed to let residents resume using the lot without charge.
PPI spokesperson Sam Negrin said hurricanes Helene and Milton in 2024 severely impacted the park, sparking many changes.
“Our intention from the start has always been to restore Pines Park and maintain it as a trailer park,” Negrin said. “But after the second storm (Milton) and all the back and forth from the city, it became impossible.”
Negrin said that while the trailer park owners initially promised to rebuild, shifting directives from the city made doing so financially unviable. In response, PPI began shutting down the park and turned the parking lot into a paid lot to offset costs.
Pines residents expressed frustration over that decision during public comment.
Elayne Armaniaco said, “96.5% of those homes are rebuildable. (PPI) have already succeeded in driving away many of those who need to park there.”
“Any Pines resident, if asked today if they would’ve rebuilt, if this parking lot was given to them back in November and we were able to hear a commitment that our 2028 mortgage was going to be adhered to, they would say absolutely,” she added, calling PPI’s financial hardship “self-created.”
Mary Mox, a resident of the park for 32 years, said the lot had been “used exclusively by tenants for decades and yet it was quietly commercialized without
our consent, without a single update to the prospectus — a violation of state statute 723.”
Park resident Ranae Ratajczak called the change “absurd.”
“The tenants who paid the yearly $750 were not granted or assigned a parking spot when PPI changed the format into a paid parking lot for public use in late 2024, leaving the tenants who had no parking at all, at a loss,” she said.
The Pines Trailer Park Homeowners Association has filed suit against PPI over its decision to close the park. Their attorney, Nathan Reneau, told commissioners: “There is longstanding evidence that this has been part of the trailer park.”
Mayor John Chappie acknowledged the complexities.
“I think the focus to me is about the change in use of the parcel,” he said, noting the shift from residential use to a public paid lot.
The mayor asked for guidance.
City attorney Ricinda Perry said enforcement decisions regarding land use and compliance should be left to the city building official, who heads code compliance.
Commissioner Scott Bear moved to have Palmer investigate the lot’s compliance. Commissioner Jan Vosburgh seconded the motion, which passed 4-0.
Commissioner Ralph Cole was absent with excuse.
The matter will return to the commission once Palmer completes his review.
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By robert anderson islander reporter
Manatee County is set to receive more than $3.1 million in federal funding for restoration at Coquina Beach following damage caused by Hurricane Idalia in 2023, according to a recent update from U.S. Rep. Vern Buchanan’s office.
The Federal Emergency Management Agency awarded Manatee County $3.1 million for the Coquina Beach engineered project restore the shoreline to preIdalia conditions. The repairs were authorized under the Robert T. Stafford Act and follow the disaster declarations after the storm’s Aug. 31, 2023, impact.
Under the act, a president can make contributions to state and local governments for the restoration, repair and reconstruction of a public facility damaged or destroyed by a major disaster.
Charlie Bishop, Manatee County director of property management, shared the update from Buchanan’s office during an April 15 commission meeting.
According to the update, Idalia’s storm surge and wave action caused significant beach and dune erosion at Coquina. Analysis using aerial imagery conducted by Coastal Protection Engineering LLC determined the beach lost an estimated 74,800 cubic yards of sand.
The restoration project involves replacing beachBeachgoers line coquina Beach in Bradenton Beach May 1.
By ryan Paice islander reporter
A new salary for Anna Maria’s treasurer will not be determined until after the city adds to the staff.
Mayor Mark Short said in a May 2 voicemail to The Islander that he would not determine a salary adjustment for treasurer LeAnne Addy until the city finds a financial assistant.
Short was elected mayor last November to succeed Dan Murphy, who served in the office for 10 years.
Since becoming mayor, Short has been working on realigning the city’s organizational chart, as well
quality sand, sourced from Longboat Pass.
Manatee County also developed a hazard mitigation plan to install about 10,000 dune plants across 19,200 square feet and adding signage, posts and ropes to protect the new vegetation.
The total project cost estimate? More than $4.2 million, with FEMA covering 75% of the expense.
Manatee County director of natural resources, Charlie Hunsicker said May 5 that while preparations for the restoration project may begin several months in advance, construction is scheduled to start in January 2026 for a duration of 3-4 months.
as employee roles and duties.
One of the first organizational changes he made was to hire Manatee County native Amber LaRowe as the new city clerk for a yearly starting salary of $102,500.
Previously, Addy served as both city clerk and treasurer, with an outsized combination of duties that only increased since last year’s devastating hurricanes.
The city is now seeking to hire a full-time financial assistant to handle some of the work as well.
The Islander welcomes stories about island life, as well as photos and notices of the milestones in readers’ lives — weddings, births, anniversaries, travels, obituaries and other events. Submit your story to news@islander.org.
The city posted the job opening in April and is offering a $60,000-$75,000 starting annual salary range, according to Indeed.com.
Short said he would determine a salary adjustment for Addy in keeping with her reduction of duties after divvying up responsibilities between the three administrative employees.
The division of Addy’s duties between her and LaRowe, and a future financial assistant, makes sense when looking at Addy’s work hours since the week last September that Hurricane Helene hit.
Over the 27 weeks between Sept. 24, 2024, and March 31, Addy averaged 67.12 hours per week, according to employee timesheets obtained by The Islander.
That average includes 8.79 overtime hours and 19.61 hours of disaster-related overtime per week, which are both paid at 1.5 times the regular rate.
While Addy’s weekly peak of 85.5 hours over that timeline falls short of some other employees, such as public works general manager Dean Jones’ 104 hours logged over the week Helene hit, Addy’s hours remained high after the storm.
Roughly eight weeks after Helene, Jones’ workload was back to a regular schedule of about 40 hours per week.
In contrast, Addy’s 85.5-hour weekly peak came 17 weeks after Helene — in January — and right after working 82.75 hours the week prior, as well as before working 79 hours the next week.
Even six months removed from the storms, Addy worked a 66-hour week that included eight regular overtime hours and 18 disaster-related overtime hours, according to a timesheet for the pay period March 4-March 10.
All overtime hours for salaried employees require preauthorization forms, signed by the mayor, to accompany weekly timesheets.
Much of Addy’s overtime can be attributed to posthurricane documentation, the process of requesting funding from the Federal Emergency Management Agency, as well as addressing regular duties, such as payroll and records requests, according to her preauthorization forms.
The city paid Addy $211,560.49 in 2024, according to her W-2 form from the municipality. addy
By ryan Paice islander reporter
The West Manatee Fire Rescue district’s vacation rental inspection program fell short of its goal in its first year.
But additional staff and an established process might lead to a better second year.
Fire marshal Rodney Kwiatkowski told The Islander May 1 that district staff had inspected 735 out of about 4,633 registered vacation rental properties, with another 170 inspections scheduled, four months into the 2025 calendar year.
The district covers Anna Maria Island and west Bradenton. It established a vacation rental inspection program in 2024 with two inspectors and two staff members to lead the efforts.
According to Kwiatkowski, staff inspected 3,216 vacation rentals for compliance with the Florida Fire Prevention Code over the program’s first calendar year.
Kwiatkowski said WMFR fell short of its goal to inspect all vacation rentals in the district — in part due to challenges presented by hurricanes Helene and Milton — but he gave the first-year effort an A-plus.
“We didn’t complete them all,” Kwiatkowski said.
The Bradenton Beach City Commission voted 4-0 May 1 to renew a temporary-use permit for a paid parking lot in the Bridge Street commercial district, pending a regulatory review by building official Bill Palmer.
The permit allows continued operation of the lot, 101 Bridge St., part of the future Bridge Street Resort site, for up to a year as construction preparations continue. Resort developer Shawn Kaleta’s firm has operated the lot under an temporary permit issued in February 2024.
“We are looking to continue the paid parking that we have been running at the lots,” Sam Negrin, spokesperson for Beach to Bay Investments, said. “We do plan to continuing the development that we have planned there but obviously the storms have set us back.”
The renewal consolidates four adjacent parcels — 101 and 105 Bridge St., 219 Gulf Drive S., and 106 Third St. S. — into a large lot.
Palmer still must review the updated plan for compliance with local, state, and federal requirements.
Angela Rodocker, owner of the nearby BridgeWalk Resort, voiced support but noted concerns.
“We feel strongly that the parking lot really benefits the street,” Rodocker said. “However, there are many, many complaints about the price.”
“If Shawn and your company would like to be more embraced. It would behoove you to lower the rate.”
— robert anderson
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“But we’ve known from the beginning that there were going to be some growing pains.”
“I can’t imagine things going much better considering the circumstances. … Our staff is diligent, working hard and they’re professional,” he added.
This year, the district has five inspectors working on rotation six days a week, completing up to almost 20 inspections per day.
WMFR also plans to hire a sixth inspector in October, with the start of fiscal 2025-26, according to Kwiatkowski.
The district is exploring another change moving forward: the adoption of the Florida Residential Swimming Pool Safety Act.
Kwiatkowski said WMFR’s adoption of the act would allow staff already inspecting vacation rentals for compliance with the FFPC to also check swimming pools for compliance with state law.
He said the district, which also provides paramedic services, runs many drowning calls — often pediat-
ric drownings — and hopes to reduce them through inspections.
“We’re tired of running these drownings, especially the pediatric ones. It’s devastating,” Kwiatkowski said. “It’s a benefit to the customer as well because they can just get that one-stop comprehensive inspection by us and be done.”
One challenge the district’s inspection program still faces is a lawsuit filed by Holmes Beach-based C&D Properties of AMI, LLC.
C&D sued in February 2024 arguing that the district’s new fire assessments to fund the program violate state law. Vacation rental owners previously paid residential assessment rates, but are now assessed as commercial properties, a higher tax rate.
Kwiatkowski said that some rental owners may be holding out on allowing WMFR to inspect their properties until the lawsuit is resolved.
The lawsuit’s non-jury trial period will begin Aug. 11, following a 9 a.m. July 31 pre-trial conference.
By Lisa neff islander editor
Tourism roared through March, generating more than $5 million in tourist development tax revenue in Manatee County for the first time this fiscal year.
The county collected $5,396,781, in bed tax revenue for the month, compared to $5,303,173 in March 2024 and $4,647,968 in March 2023, according to a May 1 report from the county tax collector’s office.
The increase in March 2025 over March 2024 was 1.77%, mainly due to a voter-approved a 1% increase in the levy. The tax is now a 6% levy collected on overnight rentals of six months or less.
Halfway through the fiscal year, the county collected $16,073.762 in tourist tax revenue.
On the island, Holmes Beach’s March tourist development tax earnings reached $1,334,350 — 24.72% of the total for the county. In 2024, Holmes Beach generated $1,503,746.
In Bradenton Beach, the revenue was $184,491 or 3.42% of the total. In 2024, the city generated $285,478.
In Anna Maria, the revenue was $715,602 or 13.26% of the total. In 2024, Anna Maria generated $725,360.
Some other stats:
• Unincorporated Manatee County generated $2,109,354 or 39.08%. In 2024, unincorporated county revenue was at $1,915,579.
• Longboat Key generated $418,200 or 7.75%. In 2024, revenue was $442,627.
• Bradenton generated $522,405 or 9.68%. Bradenton revenues in 2024 were $427,183.
• Palmetto generated $112,810 or 2.09%. A year ago, without the Marriott hotel, the city generated $11,056.
The tax collector retains a 3% administrative fee, leaving the county’s net bed tax revenue for March at
$15.591 548.
The Manatee County Tourist Development Council is the advisory board that recommends how to spend resort tax revenue.
The county commission decides the expenditures.
Revenue must be used to bolster tourism, according to state law.
Tourism-related institutions that receive resort taxes include the Bradenton Area Convention and Visitors Bureau, the Bradenton Area Convention Center, the Pittsburgh Pirates and Realize Bradenton, a nonprofit dedicated to developing downtown Bradenton. Tourism-related projects that have been funded by the tax include island beach renourishment, construction of the new Anna Maria City Pier and the Gulf Islands Ferry service between Bradenton and the island.
April bed tax revenue data will be released in early June as collections of the money take place this month.
The TDC will meet next at 9:30 a.m. Monday, June 16, at the Center of Anna Maria Island, 407 Magnolia Ave., Anna Maria.
compiled by Lisa neff calendar@islander.org
Thursday, May 8
5-8 p.m. — The Cove’s “Window to You: A Coastal View” exhibit opening, 104 Bridge St., Bradenton Beach. Info: 941-405-9227. Wednesday, May 14
11:45 a.m. — Off Stage Ladies meeting and lunch, The Feast, 5406 Marina Drive, Holmes Beach. Fee applies. Info: 941-9322798.
• May 8-18, Island Players’ “Grace & Glorie,” 10009 Gulf Drive, Anna Maria. Fee applies. Info: 941-778-5755.
• Throughout May, Artists’ Guild of Anna Maria Island exhibits “Fur Babies,” Artists’ Guild Gallery, 5414 Marina Drive, Holmes Beach. Info: 941-778-6694.
ONGOING OFF AMI
• Throughout May, Island Gallery and Studios presents “Florida Inspired Jewelry Creations” by Carol Farkas. 456 Old Main St., Bradenton. Info: 941-778-6648.
• Throughout May, Island Gallery and Studios presents “Wildlife and Animals” by Judy Goldman, 456 Old Main St., Bradenton. Info: 941-778-6648.
• 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 Selby Botanical Gardens, 1534 Mound St., Sarasota. Fee applies. Info: 941-366-5731.
• 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 a.m., Island Gallery and Studios cri-
tique corner, 456 Old Main St., Bradenton. Info: 941-778-6648.
SAVE THE
• May 15, Manatee Music Series at G.T. Bray presents MonkeyFinger, Bradenton.
• May 16, Center of Anna Maria Island senior outing, Selby Gardens, Sarasota.
• May 19, Center of Anna Maria Island Book Club, Anna Maria.
• May 23-Aug. 30, The Bishop Museum of Science and Nature’s Laser Light Nights, Bradenton.
• May 30, Center of Anna Maria Island senior outing, Hard Rock Casino, Tampa.
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.
& FAMILY
ONGOING ON AMI
• 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.
SAVE THE DATES
• May 31-Aug. 1, Manatee County Library System’s Summer Reading Program, Holmes Beach.
• July 4, Anna Maria Island Privateers Fourth of July Parade, islandwide.
ONGOING ON AMI
• Most Fridays, 11:30 a.m., mahjong, Island Library, 5701 Marina Drive, Holmes Beach. Info: 941-778-6341.
• Most Saturdays, 8:30 a.m., Anna Maria Island Kiwanis Club, Bradenton Beach City Hall, 107 Gulf Drive N. Info: 941-730-0016. Summer schedule begins in June
• Most Tuesdays, 11:30 a.m., experienced mahjong Island Library, 5701 Marina Drive, Holmes Beach. Info: 941-778-6341.
SAVE THE DATES
• May 26, Memorial Day observance, Anna Maria.
LESSONS & LEARNING ONGOING ON AMI
• Mondays, through August, Sea Turtle Tracks and Shorebird Facts with Anna Maria Island Turtle Watch, 10 a.m., Holmes Beach City Hall, 5801 Marina Drive. Info: 941-301-8434, islandturtlewatch. com.
& FITNESS
ONGOING OFF AMI
• Through Sept. 27, various dates, Bradenton Marauders’ minor league baseball, LECOM Park, 1611 Ninth St. W., Bradenton. Margaritaville Night with Compass Hotels by Margaritaville is May 31. Fee applies. Info: 941-747-3031.
& NATURE
ONGOING OFF AMI
• 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
• June 7, World Ocean Day at Robinson Preserve, Bradenton.
• June 23, Sea Turtle Conservancy/Tour de Turtles sea turtle release, Bradenton Beach. TENTATIVE.
KEEP THE DATES
• Through Oct. 31, sea turtle nesting season.
• May 11, Mother’s Day.
• May 17, Armed Forces Day.
• May 26, Memorial Day.
• June 1, Atlantic hurricane season begins.
• June 14, Flag Day.
• June 15, Father’s Day.
• June 19, Juneteenth.
• June 20, summer solstice.
• July 4, Independence Day.
GET LISTED!
Send listings to calendar@islander.org.
Tiki and Kitty are leading the way to their favorite shops and boutiques to find unique vintage accents and decor for your home.
T&K love Cat’s Meow, an 8,000 square-foot marketplace! Their vendors offer coastal, cottage, beach, antique, boho, midcentury modern and other home decor styles. They also offer vintage to fine jewelry and vintage albums.
You might want to lace up your skates, as this large, former skating rink has plenty to offer bargain hunters and anyone seeking antiques and unique decor. You don’t want to miss this collection.
We’ll definitely make a stop next door at Blue
Flamingo, home to hip and trendy upcycled and repurposed goods, furniture and decor, garden features, candles, jewelry and work by local artisans. They also offer Dixie Belle paints.
They now have three large buildings of quirky, coastal, artisan, whimsy, florals and vintage treasures — including the Sea Hagg and Gathering Place.
Scavengers Marketplace has plenty of vendors to capture your wallet at the Palmetto store, 2100 U.S. 301. There’s always something new to entice you among the vendors’ eclectic collections.
FYI: Scavengers also carries Fusion Paints. The Vintage Vine Market is a fave for Tiki and Kitty, who love the fine vintage wares and items with a whimsical twist at this store in historic Old Manatee along the newest section of the Bradenton Riverwalk. The location in the 1910 building oozes charm. And they take select consignments by appointment. And don’t forget, tell people you meet along the way, “The Islander sent me.”
By robert anderson islander reporter
The owner of Bungalow Beach Resort sued the city of Bradenton Beach after commissioners denied her request for paid parking through a resort pass system.
Gayle Luper, who has operated the Gulffront resort since 1999, submitted a temporary use permit application after refurbishing a parking lot damaged by hurricanes Helene and Milton. While the storms destroyed several historic bungalows, Luper continued operating in a duplex and a single-family bungalow.
At an April 17 quasijudicial hearing, city planner Luis Serna recommended denial of the application, citing the property’s R-3 residential zoning, which prohibits standalone or multilevel parking facilities and public safety issues.
The city commission followed the recommendation, approving only a temporary permit for resort purposes to support the property’s reconstruction — excluding paid parking.
Luper’s attorney, Stephanie Anthony of Armstrong and Partners in Tampa, argued that the resort pass — which allows paying guests access to amenities, including beach access — is “standard practice
By ryan Paice islander reporter
Holmes Beach police arrested Bradenton resident Darrian Mabrey, 31, April 26 on seven charges, headlined by a second-degree felony charge for carrying a concealed firearm during a felony.
Mabrey also was charged with three third-degree felonies — possession of amphetamine, more than 20 grams of marijuana and a synthetic cannabinoid.
Additionally, he faces a first-degree misdemeanor charge for possession and/or use of drug paraphernalia, as well as two second-degree misdemeanor charges for possession of a drug without a prescription and a driver’s license restriction violation.
An officer conducted a traffic stop around 12:24 a.m. on a motorist with an improper tag in the 300 block of 58th Street and spoke with the driver, Mabrey.
The officer. during the stop, found Mabrey in possession of a THC cookie. THC cartridges, a pill bottle containing 10 amphetamine pills, another bottle containing more pills, a fanny pack containing 136 grams of marijuana, as well as a digital scale, according to a report. Police also found a loaded firearm.
Mabrey was arrested and transported him to the Manatee County jail, where he was released April 27 after posting $18,150 bond.
Punishment for a second-degree felony charge includes up to 15 years in prison. Punishment for a third-degree felony includes up to five years in prison. A first-degree misdemeanor can carry up to one year in jail while a second-degree misdemeanor can carry up to 60 days in jail.
Arraignment will be at June 13 at the Manatee County Judicial Center in Bradenton.
for operational resorts and necessary for the business’s financial survival.”
Serna alleged that the allowance of the lot in the past was as an accessory use to its primary allowed use as a resort.
Luper said the resort never fully shut down and has continued taking reservations at off-site buildings while the main lot was in transition.
The lawsuit, filed April 25 by attorney John A. Anthony of Tampa, claims the city violated longstanding usage rights and deprived Luper of due process and the ability to generate income during rebuilding.
According to the complaint, the resort has historically charged a resort fee that included parking.
Cortez Bridge utility relocation project: State Road 684/ Cortez Road. The Manatee County Public Works Department is relocating a water main and force main at the Intracoastal Waterway.
The work requires shoulder, sidewalk and bike lane closures, as well as detours and flagging operations.
Through early summer, the contractor will be installing pipes on both sides of Cortez Road and on the eastern and western sides of Cortez Bridge.
The northern shoulder of 124th Court West in Cortez is closed. Also, 127th Street West is closed on the north side of Cortez Road up to 126th Street West.
For more, call 941-306-4660, email info@amiprojects.io or go to amiprojects.io.
For area roadwatch information, go online to swflroads.com or dial 511.
— Lisa neff
The suit seeks an injunction to lift the parking restrictions and reinstate resort-pass parking under applicable laws.
During the April 17 hearing, Luper said her goal is to rebuild the destroyed cottages.
Most recently, city attorney Ricinda Perry updated commissioners on the lawsuit during a May 1 commission meeting, stating that Circuit Judge Edward Nicholas is presiding over the case. She said Nicholas denied the resort’s legal counsel’s emergency motion to allow the city time to respond.
Perry said city clerk Terri Sanclemente contacted the Florida League of Cities, which might cover up to 50% of the city’s legal expenses.
The Rotary Club of Anna Maria Island held its first AMI Rotary Fishing Tournament April 26 to raise money for hurricane recovery in Cortez, as well as the club’s Learn to Swim program, Anna Maria Elementary projects and other local campaigns.
Rotarian Angela Baker delivered the following report to The Islander:
So we ended up with 11 boats and 39 anglers plus nine youth anglers, boats of all sizes — inshore and offshore — from the large Rodfather boat all the way down to a kayak. Our youngest angler was 7.
We had 65 people attend the awards banquet at the Swordfish Grill, 4628 119th St. W., Cortez, with 32 silent auction baskets with items donated by Cortez, Anna Maria Island and Bradenton businesses.
Auction items included fishing tackle and gear, cigars, gift cards, liquor and art.
We have a very generous community.
We’re still adding things up but we have earned well over $25,000 in donations from sponsors, a silent auction, T-shirt sales and the Wagon of Cheer raffle.
The anglers all had great fun, everyone thought it went very well and we are looking forward to having our second tournament next year.
The first-place team in the offshore division of the tournament, receiving $1,000, is The rodfather. The team includes Jered ingham, cormack ingham, Terry ingham, Jim Boone, Kian ingham and dan ingham. They are pictured with Bob Slicker, whose restaurant, Slicker’s eatery, hosted the pre-tourney captain’s meeting.
Rotary club members helped with donations, ticket sales and raffle tickets as well as helping at the awards banquet. And of course, Bob Slicker at Slicker’s Eatery and Swordfish Grill were instrumental in our events.
We did all this with a committee of four in less
Jack Palmer poses with tournament officials Laura King and rebecca gill and his first-place trophy in the youth division for inshore fishing. islander courtesy Photos: rotary of aMi/anne yarbrough
The first-place team in the inshore division of the tournament, receiving $1,000, is Sweet & Salty. The team includes andersen afkhami, allie May, Taylor King and chase rinehart. They are pictured with tournament officials rebecca gill and Laura King.
than three months. Rotarian Rebecca Gill was our ringleader along with me, a new Rotarian member, and also two non-Rotarian people — Laura King of Anna Maria Charters and friend and local fisherman Ray Feeney.
an auction is arranged for people at the rotary’s banquet at the Swordfish grill in cortez following the club’s first fishing tournament, held april 26.
you can peruse The islander newspaper archive, dating back to its launch in november 1992, at ufdc. ufl.edu.
By Kevin P. Cassidy Islander Reporter
Sports at the community center turns to hoops in the spring.
And after three weeks of action in the Center of Anna Maria Island’s adult half-court three-versus-three basketball league, three teams stand out as the cream of the crop. Luxury Services, Slim’s Place and Solid Rock Construction all sport 3-0 records one-third of the way through the season.
Moss Builders holds down fourth place at 2-1, while Bradenton Home Inspections, Primetime Lending, Salty Printing and Slicker’s Eatery are all 1-2 with Coaster Continent and Edible Cookie Dough Cafe completing the standings at 0-3.
The 3-v-3 format has teams playing two out of three games with a 12-minute time limit. The first team to 21 points or whichever team has the lead after 12 minutes wins the game.
Solid Rock Construction took on Primetime Lending May 1 in the first matchup of the evening. Zack Long dominated, scoring 13, 14 and 17 points as they swept Primetime Lending to remain unbeaten.
Other action saw Slim’s Place defeat Moss Builders 15-18, 22-8, 18-15 to remain undefeated. Slicker’s Eatery cruised past Edible Cookie Dough 22-16, 23-11 and 22-7, while Luxury Services eased past Bradenton Home Inspections 21-18, 20-22 and 22-15. The final game of the night saw Salty Printing hold on for a 21-20, 19-21, 21-15 victory over Coaster Continent.
The action continues in the center gym so stay tuned!
Youth soccer plays on Beach Bums is on top of the 8-10 division standings in the youth soccer league at the center. Their 3-0-1 record puts them just ahead of Moss Builders and Solid Rock Construction, which are both 2-0-2.
Solid Rock Construction edged the Fish Guy 2-1 in the last game of the night. Elijah Roadman and Jeremiah Raulerson scored for Solid Rock, while Chandler LaPensee scored the lone goal for the Fish Guy in the loss.
The 11-13 soccer division has La Creperie comfortably on top with a 5-0 record, two full games ahead of second-place Westfall’s Lawn Care and Pest Control at 3-2. Solid Rock Construction is alone in third place at 2-3, while AMI Outfitters is in fourth place at 0-5.
Action for the 11-13s kicked off April 29 with Westfall’s Lawn Care cruising to a 4-1 victory over Solid Rock Construction behind a hat trick from Callin Westfall. Colton DeBerry added a goal and Sawyer Leibfried had five saves in the victory.
Turner Worth notched the only goal for Solid Rock Construction in the loss.
La Creperie outscored AMI Outfitters 8-5 in the last game of the night behind four goals from Parker Svoboda and three goals from Gunnar Maize. Renan Kesten completed the scoring for La Creperie with one goal.
Lucas Signor led AMI Outfitters with three goals, while Rusty Dilley and Tristan Hagey each had one goal in the loss.
The Fish Guy Aquarium Services follows at 1-3 with 0-2-2 Adrian Griffin Interiors and 0-2-1 Shady Lady Horticultural Services complete the standings.
Action last week kicked off April 29 with Beach Bums defeating Adrian Griffin Interiors 3-1 behind two goals from Louis Bacon and one from Parker Svoboda.
The second 8-10 division game of the night saw Shady Lady battle to a 1-1 tie with Moss Builders. Owen Mahoney scored the lone goal for Moss Builders, while Adrian Griffin scored on an own goal for the tie.
The Gitt Team – KW On the Water also has a comfortable lead in the 14-17 division with a 5-0 record. Better On Bikes is in second place at 3-2, just ahead of third place Moss Builders at 2-3. HSH Designs completes the standings with an 0-5 record.
Luke Dellinger scored four goals to lead Gitt Team to a 7-3 victory over HSH Design to open 14-17 action April 29. Ryk Kesten, Kegan McGlade and Jesse Zaccagnino each added single goals in the victory.
Parker Svoboda scored two goals and Sterling Holiday added one for HSH Design in the loss.
The last game of the evening saw Moss Builders hold on for a 4-2 victory over Better On Bikes. Mason
Please, see sports, Next Page
Kickoff to season
Camden goodwin, 3, of Bradenton, pins a turtle to a gameboard held by volunteer elsa Rohow of aMI turtle Watch and shorebird Monitoring during a launch party for nesting season. the event drew a crowd to Coquina Beach in Bradenton Beach.
the turtle watch team huddles up May 1 under the tents before the season’s launch party.
By Lisa Neff
tracks lead to a sea turtle nest on anna Maria Island and, in an afternoon post on social media May 3, anna Maria Island turtle Watch and shorebird Monitoring teased and trumpeted, “guess who showed up? We have our first loggerhead nest on aMI, welcome back ladies!” additional details were not provided as the Islander went to press this week. Nesting season officially started May 1 but aMItW has documented nests in the past in april, and delayed starts in May as well. Islander Photo: @IslandturtleWatch via Facebook
The city of Holmes Beach is hosting host Anna Maria Island Turtle Watch and Shorebird Monitoring for sea turtle and shorebird nesting talks. The talks, Sea Turtle Tracks and Shorebird Facts, began May 5, after The Islander’s press time, and will continue at 10 a.m. Mondays through August at city hall, 5801 Marina Drive.
For more information, call turtle watch at 941-301-8434 or go to islandturtlewatch.com.
By Lisa Neff
How many birds crossed Manatee County April 30-May 1?
Birdcast, a tool from a consortium that includes the Cornell Lab of Ornithology, estimates the answer is more than 1.4 million, as migration north was at high levels.
Peak traffic for that particular night was at about 10:30 p.m., with an estimated 277,800 birds in flight, according to dashboard.birdcast.info.
Compare the estimates to a month earlier, when an estimated 19,900 birds were in flight, and two months earlier, when the estimate was just 1,000 birds.
Nocturnally migrating species most likely to arrive or depart this region at this time of year, based on frequency of observations, include palm warblers, Baltimore orioles, rose-breasted grosbeaks, Tennessee warblers, bay-breasted warblers, Cape May warblers and the gray-cheeked thrush.
The migration is northward, with speeds up to 33 mph and heights regularly reaching 10,000 feet above ground.
Researchers associated with the University of California and Cornell Lab of Ornithology say they’ve mapped the evolution of every known bird species.
The team, according to a report released in late April, created a complete evolutionary tree of bird species by combining data on 9,239 species found in 300 studies between 1990 and 2024, with curated data on another 1,000 species.
The information is now in a database that can be updated as additional studies are published.
“People love birds and a lot of people work on birds,” said professor Emily Jane McTavish in a news release.
the tree of all birds, showing representatives from different families. Branches are colored by how many published studies contributed information to that relationship — the brightest green is 10 or more, gray is 0. Islander Image: Courtesy emily Jane Mctavish/PhyloPic.org
National Go Birding Day, stating, “We compared all 50 U.S. states across five feather-focused categories. We examined the number of Audubon centers and sanctuaries, bird species, endemic bird species and birdwatching groups, among 21 total metrics.”
Keep off the sand
Beachgoers in north Bradenton Beach might notice an area cordoned off and flagged to protect a colony of black skimmers.
Anna Maria Island Turtle Watch and Shorebird Monitoring announced the colony’s discovery in late April and asked people to stay away from the birds, as they might be preparing to nest.
In Florida, the skimmers are designated as a threatened species.
She added, “People publish scientific papers about birds’ evolutionary relationships all the time. We synthesized all the data to have unified information all in one place.”
The peer-reviewed research paper announcing the achievement, “For the First Time, All Avian Evolutionary Relationships Revealed,” was published in the Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences.
The project began about four years ago when researcher Eliot Miller, then with the Cornell lab, connected with McTavish, who was working on software for the Open Tree of Life — OpenTree — project.
McTavish said, “Eliot is really into birds and the lab is full of bird experts and they also develop birding apps such as Merlin and Ebird, so that was their side of it, and I’ve been working on this software to combine evolutionary trees, so that was my side of it.”
The OpenTree collaboration brings together evolutionary biologists and taxonomy experts to build an accurate and comprehensive evolutionary tree that describes how every named species is related to every other species.
OpenTree works on a wiki-like model. So users can upload data to update relationships.
More than 2.5 million species are represented in the Open Tree of Life and McTavish said the bird species synthesis fills one more gap in the Open Tree.
“This open science and collaborative environment really made this possible,” she said.
2nd best for birding
The Atlantic hurricane season will begin June 1 and continue through Nov. 30.
So look for The Islander’s annual storm preparation issue Wednesday, May 28.
Meanwhile, based on experience with hurricanes Helene and Milton, is there guidance you have to share? A precaution that helped? Or failed?
Email storm advice to news@islander.org.
A survey from Lawn Love rates Florida as the second-best state for birdwatching behind California. No. 3 is Texas, followed by New York, Washington, Oregon, Pennsylvania, Alaska, Colorado and Connecticut to complete the top 10.
a house on the corner of third street North and gulf Drive North in Bradenton Beach is demolished May 1 by crews using heavy equipment. the home, which suffered hurricane damage in 2024, is one of many scheduled for demolition throughout the city. Islander Photo: Robert anderson
DIRECT BEACH VIEWS from this recently updated, turn-key furnished 2/2 unit in the Gulf-to-Bay complex of “Summer Sands.” Watch the sunsets without having to leave your home! This elevated complex is located just across the street from the beach with spectacular views of the Gulf of America AND extends to the Intracoastal Waterway on the bay side. “Summer Sands” offers a private, heated pool, Jacuzzi and a scenic dock on the bay for residents and owners. $1,100,000.
The company released the survey April 26 for
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. Retired veteran serving our community! Free estimates, call 941-705-5293.
LOOKING FOR aNy home improvement? JRCC Home Improvement, handyman service can get the job done. Please, contact us at 413-2462410. 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.
DONaLD PERKINS PaINTING LLC. Interior/exterior/pressure washing. Island references. dperkinspaint@hotmail.com. 941-705-7096.
GORILL a DRy Wa LL REPa IR 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.
TETI TILE: 40 years’ experience in Delaware, now on aMI and surrounds. Tile, marble, murals. Free estimates. Call John Teti, 302-983-5774.
TRUE TONE PaINTING: Painting, power washing, epoxy floors. 941-224-4020.
C a LL H y DRO CLE a N. 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.
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
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.
MINUTES TO BEaCHES! 2BR/2Ba condo, water and cable included, pool, washer/dryer, $1,595/ month, annual, 941-713-6743.
a V a IL a BLE NOW! a NNU a L rental. Beautiful, bright renovated condo 2BR/2Ba, one floor. Perico Bay Club, pool, hot tub, tennis, pickle ball, covered parking. $2,500/ month. Call 612-802-8357.
aNNUaL 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.
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.
aNNUaL RENTaL! ISLaND condo on Flotilla Drive in Holmes Beach available June 1. 2BR/2B a , second floor up. Maximum four occupancy. Sorry, no pets. Completely renovated and furnished! Two parking spaces, one covered. Complex offers pool and tennis courts. $2,750/month. application with background check required. Call Carol with Island Real Estate, 941-345-1300.
2BR/2B a SECOND FLOOR condo with pool available in Holmes Beach. available for 2025/26 season beginning November, 2025. Call Jack, 312-835-2323 for more details and link to site with pictures and details.
aVaILaBLE By OWNER: 2025-26 winter season. 1.5 blocks to Gulf. 3BR/2BR, carport and patio. all new, updated. Plantation shutters, must see. Special price for six months-plus. 941-5652373.
2026 SEaSONaL RENTaL: Waterfront villa, two miles to Bradenton Beach. Six-month availability. Eloquently furnished, located on 90 acres of paradise. $4,600/month. Phil, 941-725-1043.
WINNIE MCH a LE, RE a LTOR, 941-5046146. Dalton Wade Real Estate you need an aggressive and experienced Realtor in today’s market! Selling island homes, Sarasota and Bradenton areas. Multi-milliondollar producer! “Selling Homes - Making Dreams Come True.”
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.
W aTERFRONT 3BR/2B a M a NUFa CTURED home with ample parking for boat/RV and two cars. Screened-in lanai for enjoying sunsets. Steps away from Parrott Cove Marina and free boat launch. Sunny Shores beach nearby and easy walk or bike ride to a nna Maria Island. awaiting new owner to complete drywall and decorative flooring. you own the land. Sunny Shores, a friendly community with voluntary homeowners’ association that provides access to club house and park amenities. Ideal vacation home or rental property. asking price, $299,000. Call 847-436-0938 for more information or tour of home.
COMMERCI a L SPa CE FOR S a LE in Palm Condo. 12x25-foot office suite. Street frontage. One allocated parking space. Shared client parking. $120,000. Call 941-730-2606.
1BR/1B a TR a ILER: Pa RTI a LLy remodeled at Sandpiper Resort. $120,000. One minute to beach and Intracoastal. 888-322-7078.
2BR/2Ba MOBILE HOME in established 55-plus land-owned community. High and dry, 20 minutes from aMI. Move-in ready. New central air. Oversized lot, covered parking. $79,900. Search up: 718 50th ave. Drive W., Bradenton. Call or text Dan, 941-224-4914.
The Islander offers the best results for your classified advertising dollar. We really work for you! Submit your ad no later than noon Monday on the website, islander.org. For Monday holidays, the deadline is Friday. Place your ads online at islander.org or by email to classifieds@islander.org